192. Become a changemaker: What job hunters can learn from Alex Budak

career change managing complexity Jun 26, 2023
Become a changemaker: What job hunters can learn from Alex Budak

In the latest episode of our podcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with Alex Budak, a renowned social entrepreneur, author, speaker, and faculty member at UC Berkeley. With his wildly popular course, "Becoming a Changemaker," Alex has been at the forefront of inspiring and empowering a new generation of change-makers. In this episode, he shares valuable insights into the philosophy and practice of change-making, offering advice for professionals seeking to adapt and thrive in our ever-changing world.

Alex and I discuss the importance of embracing the concept of change-making during career transitions, the negative impact of sunk cost mentality in enabling change to happen, and incorporating AI into professional development. Alex shares insights on finding a different path that may be more fulfilling and his personal experience of coming second for a desired job. 

This episode is ideal for those looking to make a substantive change in their careers and don't know how to start or why they feel inclined to change. Alex has a great understanding of the human entrepreneurial nature and will inspire you to embrace yours too!

About our guest:

As a faculty member at UC Berkeley, Alex Budak teaches "Becoming a Changemaker" and plays a crucial role in directing the Berkeley Haas Global Access Program. His expertise extends to teaching in Berkeley Executive Education programs. Alex is also the co-founder of StartSomeGood, an organization that has supported over 1,200 change-makers across 50 countries, enabling them to raise millions of dollars for impactful initiatives. His book, "Becoming a Changemaker," has received endorsements from Nobel Prize winners, Olympic athletes, and, most significantly, his former students. A graduate of UCLA and Georgetown University, Alex's passion for change-making is evident in his diverse accomplishments. You can learn more from Aled Budak and buy his book on his website

Timestamps to guide your listening:

  • 03:12 - Alex Budak shares his career story 
  • 08:40 - The key strengths that have helped Alex carve out his career path 
  • 15:25 - Alex's definition of change-making and who changemakers are 
  • 17:14 - The reasons behind his dedication to studying and advocating for change-making 
  • 19:02 - Exploring the concept of change-making as a state of mind, not just a job or responsibility 
  • 21:45 - The importance and benefits of becoming a change-maker 
  • 28:39 - The influence of AI 
  • 30:30 - Impact of AI to change-makers 
  • 34:25  - Alex's practical advice for professionals currently in transition, i.e., between jobs 

Links mentioned in this episode:

Are you new to The Job Hunting Podcast? 

Hello, I’m Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I’m also an executive coach, job hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. 

If you are 1) an ambitious professional who is keen to develop a robust career plan, 2) looking to find your next job or promotion, or 3) you want to keep a finger on the pulse of the job market so that when you are ready, and an opportunity arises, you can hit the ground running – then this podcast is for you. In addition to The Job Hunting Podcast, I have developed a range of courses and services for professionals in career or job transition. And, of course, I also coach private clients. 

So there is no excuse – I’m determined to help you! I want you to feel empowered, nail your next job, and have the career you want.

Enjoy the episode, and ciao for now!

 

Renata Bernarde | Job Hunting Expert

[email protected]

www.renatabernarde.com

I cannot recommend it highly enough.

To my friends and colleagues who are currently job hunting, this podcast is for you. Renata Bernarde and her stellar line up of guests very generously share their perspective, advice, behind-the-scene secrets, tips, and anecdotes. "It's called The Job Hunting Podcast (it is what it says on the tin!) Guests include Anita Ziemer, Michelle Redfern, Mohit Bhargava. I cannot recommend it highly enough. Run. Don't Walk." - LinkedIn post shared by Amber Knight.

We listened, and we both got jobs!

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