Max Ahumada, Author at OACO

182: Take a Plunge Over the Growth Edge with Christopher Belcastro | Chief Technology Officer

by Max Ahumada | Aug 19, 2024 | Podcast

In this episode, we talk with Christopher Belcastro, a high performing and focused CTO with global leadership experience managing large, diverse engineering projects & teams.

Christopher is one of us. He has over a dozen years of product development experience in power electronics for mission critical power protection applications.

If you want to be known for your ability to transform organizational performance, driving revenue and operating results for your company, then stick around because that’s what Christopher is known for.

But it didn’t come easy. After being told by HR when he was a new engineering manager that, “people don’t like working for you,” he had to make major adjustments or go down in flames.

Spoiler alert, he’s a successful CTO now, and he shares those lessons learned with you today.

A coach at heart, Christopher loves to give back to the global engineering community.

So press play and let’s chat… it’s time to take the plunge over your growth edge!

181: Laid Off? You Must Do This First When Looking for Work

by Max Ahumada | Aug 12, 2024 | Podcast

In this episode, I tackle the tough topic of layoffs and what to do if you find yourself suddenly out of a job.

I share some hard truths about how layoffs can happen to even the most talented engineers and how it’s not a reflection of your worth or abilities.

You’ll learn why it’s crucial to avoid falling into the trap of endless resume polishing and instead focus on engaging your network and having real conversations that open doors.

I also offer practical advice on how to stay sharp and avoid the mindset pitfalls that can keep you stuck.

So press play and let’s chat… Let’s turn setbacks into comebacks!

180: The Busy Brain Cure to Find Focus and Tame Anxiety with Neurologist Dr. Romie Mushtaq

by Max Ahumada | Aug 5, 2024 | Podcast

In this episode, meet Dr. Romie Mushtaq, author of the “The Busy Brain Cure” and creator of the BrainSHIFT protocol.

Her magic power is to help you find focus, tame anxiety, and sleep again.

Dr. Romie is a regularly featured medical expert analyst on Fox News in Orlando for Fox News and Good Day Orlando.

Every engineering leader I know will want to hear this conversation, including my personal breakthrough in the debrief.

Are you stuck in a success-stress cycle? Is chasing a dopamine high driving you toward procrastination? Find out today, and how to heal yourself naturally.

179: Beware the Lazy Engineer’s Way to Promotion

by Max Ahumada | Jul 29, 2024 | Podcast

In this episode, I dive into the common trap many engineering managers fall into when they pursue career growth the lazy way: by working harder and longer hours.

We explore Rahul’s journey, a dedicated engineering manager who achieved success through hard work only to find himself overwhelmed and burned out. Through Rahul’s story, I highlight the importance of shifting from an individual contributor mindset to a leadership mindset, focusing on strategic delegation, and prioritizing tasks that matter most.

This episode is all about understanding the pitfalls of the “work harder” mentality and embracing a smarter, more sustainable approach to career advancement.

So press play and let’s chat about how to level up without burning out!

178: Without This Intention You Will Suffer the Certainty of Misery with Jeff Perry | Engineering Career Coach

by Max Ahumada | Jul 22, 2024 | Podcast

In this episode, I chat with my good friend and fellow coach, Jeff Perry, about the power of intention.

In his new book, “The Intentional Engineer,” Jeff shares how to design a life and career with intention, how to shift your mindset, create clarity in what you want, and where it all fits in your zones of genius.

We talk about a three-letter word that embodies the growth mindset, moving beyond the golden rule, and the core statements that define (and can limit) our potential.

Jeff is a mechanical and software engineering leader turned leadership coach for engineers. His unique approach helps you create clarity on your goals, take ambitious action, make intentional career moves, and level-up fast.

So press play and let’s chat…it’s time to be intentional about your next career step!

177: Why Recruiters Do Not Find Jobs for People | Career Transition Coaching

by Max Ahumada | Jul 15, 2024 | Podcast

In this episode, I tackle a common misconception in the career journey: the difference between a recruiter and a coach.

Many engineering leaders and managers come to our coaching organization, Oasis of Courage, seeking help without realizing they might need coaching instead of recruiting. I dive into the key differences between these two roles, explaining why recruiters find people for jobs, while coaches help you become the best candidate for your desired role.

I also discuss the importance of having a comprehensive job search strategy that includes but isn’t limited to recruiters.

You’ll hear real-life examples of how coaching can accelerate your career transition, boost your confidence, and help you avoid the pitfalls of desperation.

So press play and let’s chat about making your next career move with the right support system!

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