Episode #15: The Power Of Networking In Matthew’s Success Story DVC Alumni: Where Every Story Inspires The Next! podcast

34:06

Join us as we dive into an inspiring conversation with Tiffany Rhoe, who shares her remarkable journey from aspiring nurse to a successful career in staffing. Tiffany reflects on the challenges and realizations that led her to pivot from the medical field to staffing, highlighting the impactful moments and personal growth along the way. Learn about the importance of networking, the power of LinkedIn, and the persistence required to navigate career changes. Whether you’re just starting out or considering a career shift, Tiffany's story offers valuable insights and motivation.…

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Episode #27: Takeshi Kawata’s Quest: From Education to Esports Enthusiast 46:06

9 дней назад46:06

46:06

Send us a text Join us for an insightful conversation with Takeshi Kawata, a passionate esports enthusiast and former DVC student, as he recounts his educational journey and his rise in the gaming world. From his roots in San Ramon and homeschooling days to becoming one of America's top 500 Heroes of the Storm players, Takeshi's story is one of resilience and determination. His transition from Diablo Valley College during the pandemic to UC Davis is filled with strategic decision-making, emotional college admissions moments, and a pivot towards a communications focus inspired by a pivotal journalism class. Takeshi opens up about his experiences navigating the uncertainties of college admissions, including the emotional highs and lows of being waitlisted by UCLA, and the role esports played in his life as a refuge from academic pressures. He shares how the inclusive nature of esports provided a community where he could thrive, even without traditional athletic prowess. Through his involvement at UC Davis, Takeshi illustrates how esports clubs foster a strong sense of belonging and competition, despite the challenges of limited funding in this burgeoning field. As we wrap up the episode, Takeshi delves into his career aspirations within the esports industry, from coaching and management to broadcasting and teaching. His passion for games like League of Legends and Valorant fuels his ambition to work with industry giants like Riot Games. Additionally, he reflects on the importance of networking and self-promotion in an industry that's still defining itself. Tune in to hear Takeshi's unique perspective on esports and discover how you can connect with him online as TKStarStorm. Thank you for tuning in. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps us bring you more inspiring stories from the DVC community. Stay connected with us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming episodes. Have a story to share or a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, keep pushing boundaries, embracing connections, and navigating your own path to success. DVC Alumni: Where every story inspires the next.…

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Episode #29 From France to Belgium to Berkeley: A Legal Aspirant’s Story 47:22

16 дней назад47:22

47:22

Send us a text Join us as we uncover the incredible story of Mansour, an ambitious international student navigating his journey from the borders of France and Belgium to the prestigious halls of UC Berkeley. Mansour's narrative is rich with cultural intricacies and personal challenges that shaped his desire to pursue a career in law. Discover how he overcame language barriers, adapted to a new educational system, and found his calling for social justice through unwavering familial support, resilience, and determination. In this episode, Mansour shares moving anecdotes about his family's sacrifices and the lessons he's learned about hard work and advocacy. He speaks candidly about his early experiences at Diablo Valley College and the sense of isolation he felt during the COVID-19 pandemic, illustrating how these moments drove him to become a student ambassador and engaged community member. As he currently works with the Oakland City Attorney’s Office, Mansour outlines his aspirations to become a judge, emphasizing the important role legal professionals can play in advocating for marginalized communities. Tune in to be inspired by Mansour's journey and hear how he passionately strives to create positive change in the world around him. His story serves as a poignant reminder that with perseverance, determination, and a vision for justice, anything is possible. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review to support more narratives like Mansour's! If you'd like to connect with Mansour find him on LinkedIn Thank you for tuning in. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps us bring you more inspiring stories from the DVC community. Stay connected with us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming episodes. Have a story to share or a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, keep pushing boundaries, embracing connections, and navigating your own path to success. DVC Alumni: Where every story inspires the next.…

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Episode # 28: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Job Market Challenges: Estie Briggs on Emotional Intelligence and Career Growth 28:03

23 дня назад28:03

28:03

Send us a text Estie Briggs, our esteemed guest and emotional intelligence coach, shares her invaluable insights into conquering imposter syndrome, especially in high-pressure environments like the construction industry. Ever wondered how to navigate the emotional turbulence of job searching or how to build confidence in your professional life? Estie’s journey, sparked by a self-assessment during her organizational development studies, led her to specialize in helping individuals overcome these very challenges. Her upcoming workshop promises strategies to combat imposter syndrome, focusing on stepping out of comfort zones and the critical, albeit uncomfortable, art of networking. Job hunting can be an emotional rollercoaster, but maintaining self-assurance and perspective is key. As we explore this terrain, we underscore the importance of recognizing your own value and determining whether a company truly merits your skills. Personal stories highlight the significance of experience in identifying mismatches and the necessity of a good fit with potential employers. Estee encourages listeners to approach career transitions with optimism, weighing self-belief against realistic expectations, and taking inspiration from the idea that understanding your worth is as essential as finding the right role. For those contemplating a career change, Estie provides practical advice on identifying transferable skills and the concept of job crafting. Drawing from Amy Wrzesniewski’s work, she emphasizes mastery, autonomy, and purpose as fundamental to job satisfaction. We also recommend tools like the Designing Your Life workbook to help you uncover tasks that energize or drain you, enabling you to pursue your true passions. Discover how to stay informed and connected with upcoming events through Estee’s website, ensuring you have the resources needed for navigating imposter syndrome, job searching, and career transitions successfully. Here's a coupon code that gives DVC alumni (and students) 100% off - this is just for DVC peeps. https://briggsperformanceconsulting.thrivecart.com/overcoming-imposter-syndrome/?coupon=FANDF100 Here's a link you can share with all the other people. :) This one has 20% off. Thank you for tuning in. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps us bring you more inspiring stories from the DVC community. Stay connected with us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming episodes. Have a story to share or a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, keep pushing boundaries, embracing connections, and navigating your own path to success. DVC Alumni: Where every story inspires the next.…

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Episode #26: From Law Enforcement to Corporate Success: Julianna Verde’s Inspiring Transition and Educational Impact 40:58

30 дней назад40:58

40:58

Send us a text Discover the incredible journey of Julianna Verde, a dynamic professional who seamlessly juggles teaching managerial accounting at Diablo Valley College with a remote role at Sony PlayStation. Julianna's story is one of transformation, from her initial pursuit of a medical career to finding her true passion in business. Her path led her through a series of educational institutions, culminating in a successful career at Leapfrog. But what does it take to transition from a structured law enforcement environment to the fast-paced corporate world? Get ready to be inspired as Julianna shares her experiences navigating the corporate ladder at Sony, where she transitioned from law enforcement to sales operations. With the encouragement of a supportive mentor, she returned to Diablo Valley College for further education, ultimately earning her master’s degree. Julianna's dedication to learning and education shines through as she reflects on the impactful professors who inspired her to teach, revealing the profound influence of education on her career trajectory. Embark on a journey across Latin America with Julianna as she manages supply chains and embraces cultural encounters. From language barriers to amusing anecdotes, her adaptability and resilience in international business stand out. Inspired by her partner and the vibrant Diablo Valley College community, Julianna embraced teaching amidst industry uncertainties. Her story underscores the transformative power of education, leaving listeners encouraged by her unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth. Thank you for tuning in. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps us bring you more inspiring stories from the DVC community. Stay connected with us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming episodes. Have a story to share or a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, keep pushing boundaries, embracing connections, and navigating your own path to success. DVC Alumni: Where every story inspires the next.…

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Episode #25: Tiffany Rhoe on Overcoming Setbacks and Finding New Paths 36:39

5 weeks назад36:39

36:39

Send us a text Tiffany Rhoe's journey is a testament to resilience and adaptability. After pursuing her dream of becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner, Tiffany faced emotional challenges in healthcare settings that prompted a critical reevaluation of her career path. From working at a dialysis center to a cancer center, the personal toll of patient loss led her to question her passion for the medical field. Tiffany’s story offers a raw and honest look into the unforeseen challenges in healthcare and the tough decisions about balancing passion and personal well-being. Transitioning from healthcare to the world of staffing and recruitment, Tiffany's career took unexpected turns. With pivotal roles at companies like Express and Volt, she navigated the intricacies of labor laws and office management across multiple states while balancing family life. Her move to Starbucks, driven by a deep appreciation for the brand, ended abruptly with a layoff, sending her back to the drawing board to once again rethink her career direction. This narrative is a compelling exploration of the resilience needed to navigate career transitions and setbacks. In the final chapter, we explore Tiffany’s insights into job searching and personal branding. She shares strategic tips on leveraging LinkedIn, from the importance of an updated profile to meaningful networking. Her advice extends to job seekers, emphasizing persistence and the necessity of understanding the recruiter's perspective. Tiffany highlights the invaluable support of career resources, such as those offered by Diablo Valley College, to enhance job prospects. Join us for an enlightening discussion that is packed with practical advice and personal stories sure to resonate with anyone navigating their career journey. Thank you for tuning in. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps us bring you more inspiring stories from the DVC community. Stay connected with us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming episodes. Have a story to share or a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, keep pushing boundaries, embracing connections, and navigating your own path to success. DVC Alumni: Where every story inspires the next.…

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Episode #23: From CNC Machining to Ice Sculptures: Darrell Foote’s Journey of Creativity and Innovation 46:58

6 weeks назад46:58

46:58

Send us a text What if your engineering skills could sculpt not just machines, but ice? Join our conversation with Darrell Foote, a remarkable individual whose journey from growing up in Warnock Creek to becoming a production manager is anything but ordinary. Discover how Darrell transitioned from mastering CNC machining at Diablo Valley College to applying those skills in the art of ice sculpture, exemplifying the unexpected ways creativity and technical expertise can intersect. His story celebrates the influence of community colleges like DVC in nurturing diverse career paths that challenge the traditional expectations of success. As we navigate through Darrell’s diverse career, we uncover how an inspirational public speaking teacher, Paul Phelan, helped transform academic struggles into a platform for growth in both personal and professional spaces. From engaging in speech and debate to navigating roles in the restaurant industry and community advisory panels, Darrell’s experiences highlight the power of effective communication in bridging gaps between technical experts and the wider community. Personal anecdotes, such as meeting his spouse through dance classes, weave seamlessly into this narrative, showcasing the serendipitous nature of life’s journey and the unexpected opportunities that arise from connections made along the way. From semiconductor innovations to refinery operations, Darrell’s story also touches on the intricate challenges faced in technologically advanced sectors. We explore the significance of modern techniques like the Bosch process in semiconductor manufacturing and the vital role of community engagement in ensuring safety, environmental protection, and regulatory compliance. This episode underscores the importance of fostering open dialogue and collaboration, especially in light of new leadership like District Supervisor Shanelle Scales-Preston, and highlights the value of platforms like podcasts in creating spaces for meaningful conversations and community growth. Reach out to Darrell here . Thank you for tuning in. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps us bring you more inspiring stories from the DVC community. Stay connected with us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming episodes. Have a story to share or a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, keep pushing boundaries, embracing connections, and navigating your own path to success. DVC Alumni: Where every story inspires the next.…

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Unveiling Hidden Histories: Daniel James Brown on Rowing Legends and WWII Narratives 1:15:06

7 weeks назад1:15:06

1:15:06

Send us a text Esteemed author Daniel James Brown joins us for an unforgettable exploration of history through the lens of personal narratives and sportsmanship. We traverse the politically charged atmosphere of the 1936 Berlin Olympics, where nine young men from the University of Washington defied immense odds to clinch Olympic gold in rowing. Daniel offers a behind-the-scenes look at how these remarkable tales were woven into his acclaimed book, "The Boys in the Boat," sharing insights from his serendipitous encounter with Joe Rantz, a key figure in this historic triumph. Our conversation journeys beyond the race, uncovering the resilience of ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances. From Joe's personal story of perseverance to the broader implications of storytelling in understanding humility and grace, we touch on the hidden narratives of Japanese-American soldiers during World War II. Daniel introduces his latest work, "Facing the Mountain," which highlights these untold contributions, while offering a poignant reflection on how stories can reshape our understanding of history and the human spirit. Throughout the episode, we also explore the creative process behind adapting such narratives for film and the personal journey of transitioning from sports to a passion for narrative nonfiction writing. With stories that span from the bustling 1930s Seattle to the war-torn landscapes of Europe, this episode promises to leave listeners with a renewed appreciation for the power of storytelling and the indomitable spirit of those who came before us. Thank you for tuning in. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps us bring you more inspiring stories from the DVC community. Stay connected with us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming episodes. Have a story to share or a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, keep pushing boundaries, embracing connections, and navigating your own path to success. DVC Alumni: Where every story inspires the next.…

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Episode #24: From Childhood Dreams to Coffee Dreams with Kiara De Groen 1:09:50

7 weeks назад1:09:50

1:09:50

Send us a text Thank you for tuning in. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps us bring you more inspiring stories from the DVC community. Stay connected with us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming episodes. Have a story to share or a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, keep pushing boundaries, embracing connections, and navigating your own path to success. DVC Alumni: Where every story inspires the next.…

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Episode #22: Navigating Life’s Paths with James Williams III 47:12

8 weeks назад47:12

47:12

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Episode #21: From Community College to Real Estate Success: Joe Stokely’s Inspiring Journey 32:21

9 weeks назад32:21

32:21

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Episode #20: Rebecca Barrett on Leadership and Opportunity in Community Colleges 1:13:13

10 weeks назад1:13:13

1:13:13

Send us a text Rebecca Barrett, a governing board member of the Contra Costa Community College District, opens up about her transformative journey from aspiring lawyer to political advocate, all beginning at Diablo Valley College (DVC). Facing financial hurdles and a medical scare during the financial crisis, Rebecca chose community college over a four-year university, discovering a world of opportunities that challenged common stereotypes. Her story highlights how community colleges are not just stepping stones to prestigious universities but also vital resources for vocational training and personal growth. Rebecca's path is a testament to the flexibility and potential of community college life, enabling her to balance studies with internships and political campaigns. From interning with State Senator Tom Torlakson to boosting voter turnout with Voto Latino, her experiences reflect the dynamic role community colleges play in shaping diverse career trajectories. We delve into her seamless transition to a professional role in Sacramento, underscoring the invaluable skills and opportunities that community colleges offer in both education and politics. Throughout the episode, we celebrate the power of community and collaboration in fostering educational success and economic growth. Initiatives like the Diablo Valley Tech Initiative and vibrant alumni events are discussed as strategies to enhance engagement and community bonds. Rebecca's insights on governance within community colleges, likening the role to a genie with immense potential power, provide a compelling narrative on leadership and vision. Join us as we navigate the vital role community colleges play and explore how storytelling and community involvement can shift perceptions and create brighter futures. Thank you for tuning in. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps us bring you more inspiring stories from the DVC community. Stay connected with us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming episodes. Have a story to share or a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, keep pushing boundaries, embracing connections, and navigating your own path to success. DVC Alumni: Where every story inspires the next.…

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Episode #19: 1960s College Life and Its Lasting Impact with Matthew Guichard 53:40

13 weeks назад53:40

53:40

Send us a text Step into the vibrant world of the 1960s with our special guest, Matt Guichard, as he recounts his transformative college journey from Diablo Valley College to the University of California system. Envision the lively campus life filled with bands, dances, and the ever-present backdrop of the Vietnam War. Matt opens up about his unexpected path to DVC due to family circumstances and how this detour became a blessing in disguise, not just for him but also for his siblings. Through Matt's vivid storytelling, experience the cultural shifts he encountered, from the bustling Bay Area to the serene atmosphere of Chico, and the impactful events like the People's Park protests that shaped his perspective. Matt's story doesn't stop there—his life is a testament to adaptation and personal growth. After a brief stint in Seattle to avoid the draft, Matt found himself back at Chico State, juggling family, work, and studies. His career took a turn towards the legal field, supported by a fulfilling period in the publishing industry, eventually leading him to law school. With international experiences in Austria and Denmark under his belt, Matt's career broadened beyond his initial expectations, highlighting the importance of embracing change and seizing opportunities. Beyond his professional journey, Matt is passionate about giving back to his community. His commitment to public service shines through his work in coaching youth sports and his active role in the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce. As we wrap up our conversation, Matt offers thoughtful insights on the importance of starting one's education at a community college like DVC and selecting legal representation wisely. Join us for an engaging episode filled with wisdom, humor, and inspiration from a remarkable life story that continues to impact communities both locally and internationally. Thank you for tuning in. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps us bring you more inspiring stories from the DVC community. Stay connected with us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming episodes. Have a story to share or a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, keep pushing boundaries, embracing connections, and navigating your own path to success. DVC Alumni: Where every story inspires the next.…

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Episode #18: Navigating Life’s Unexpected Paths: Dr. Allyson Troxel-Galang’s Journey from Art to Psychology and Mindfulness 43:59

14 weeks назад43:59

43:59

Send us a text From the Midwest heartlands to the sunny shores of California, Dr. Allyson Troxel-Galang's journey is nothing short of transformative. Imagine a young woman juggling art classes at Diablo Valley College and shifts at IHOP, all while dreaming of being a kindergarten teacher. Little did she know, her experiences would guide her towards a passion for psychology and statistics, ultimately reshaping her career and academic pursuits. Join us as Dr. Troxel-Galang shares how she navigated life's curveballs, harnessed the power of curiosity, and crafted a unique interdisciplinary studies field major that combined health and human consciousness. Dr. Troxel-Galang's story is a testament to the unexpected paths one can take in education and life. Her transition from art and early childhood education to studying psychology at UC Berkeley demonstrates the invaluable role of adaptability and support programs for student parents and reentry students. Along the way, she balanced academic achievements with family responsibilities, highlighting the importance of resilience and leveraging resources. Her experiences aren't just about academia; they also shed light on the profound personal growth that comes with customer service roles and professional development in fields like mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy. In the final chapter of our conversation, we explore the intricate layers of trauma, therapy, and mentorship through Dr. Troxel-Galang's work at the Batrix clinic in Berkeley. Her insights into the varied forms of trauma, from military experiences to community violence, reveal the complexities of mental health care. By employing mindfulness interventions, she aims to foster post-traumatic growth, helping clients reconnect with their intrinsic value and purpose. This episode isn't just an exploration of Dr. Troxell-Galang's journey—it’s an invitation to appreciate life's opportunities and the myriad paths to personal and professional fulfillment. Thank you for tuning in. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps us bring you more inspiring stories from the DVC community. Stay connected with us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming episodes. Have a story to share or a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, keep pushing boundaries, embracing connections, and navigating your own path to success. DVC Alumni: Where every story inspires the next.…

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Episode #17: Empowering Lives through Education and Technology with JJ Vanni 47:20

15 weeks назад47:20