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If you’re job hunting right now, networking is just as important as applying for roles online.

As the saying goes: It’s not what you know - it’s who you know

In this episode of Ella Podcasts, we break down how to network strategically, confidently, and authentically - whether you’re an introvert, mid-career professional, or navigating a competitive job market shaped by AI and ageism.

From surviving awkward networking events to leveraging LinkedIn effectively, this conversation is packed with practical advice, honest opinions, and real-world strategies you can apply immediately.

Joining me are:

- Dr. Jonathan Marshall – Psychologist, former professor, Stanford & Harvard graduate

- Chris J. Reed – Founder of Black Marketing & LinkedIn personal branding expert

- Aya Clover – Host of HR & Beyond podcast, regional sales expert & experienced team leader

Together, we explore:

• Why networking increases your chances of landing a job

• How introverts can thrive at networking events

• The smartest way to use LinkedIn during your job search

• Whether the “Open to Work” badge helps or hurts

• How to follow up effectively (and quickly!)

• When to be strategic - and even ruthless - with your networking time

• Navigating rejection, ageism, and confidence dips

• Why networking should be a long-term strategy - not just when you’re desperate

This episode is honest, practical, and at times provocative - especially when discussing the realities of networking in Singapore, the impact of AI on hiring, and how to spot red flags in professional meetings.

Key Takeaways:

Introverts can network successfully by setting realistic goals (meet 1–2 people, not 25) Follow up within 24–48 hours — and personalize your message Quality and quantity both matter in today’s competitive job market Content marketing on LinkedIn can attract opportunities Rejection is part of the numbers game — don’t take it personally One meaningful conversation can change everything

Timestamps:

00:00 – Why networking matters in a job search

02:56 – How introverts can survive (and thrive at) networking events

07:02 – The bar strategy & breaking into conversations

14:12 – Ruthless vs relationship-focused networking

19:18 – Following up effectively after events

24:07 – LinkedIn strategies that work

33:56 – Open to Work: yes or no?

42:41 – Handling rejection, ageism & AI in the job market

If you’re currently job searching, feeling discouraged, or struggling with confidence — this episode is for you.

Remember: you only need one opportunity. Keep going.

Connect with Us:

Ella Podcasts YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EllaPodcasts-z9v

Join our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/816892014485089

Ella Sherman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ella-sherman/

Dr. Jonathan Marshall: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmarshallconsulting/

Chris J. Reed:

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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If you'd like to suggest episode subjects please reach out to us. Thank you!

“Toxic relationship” has become one of the most commonly used phrases in modern dating - but what does it really mean?
Are some relationships genuinely unhealthy, or has the word toxic become a catch-all label for pain, conflict, and disappointment?

In this episode of Ella Podcasts, we unpack the psychology behind so-called toxic relationships — why people stay, why red flags are often ignored, and how early life experiences shape what feels familiar, safe, or even desirable in love.

I’m joined by:

• Dr Jonathan Marshall — psychologist and former professor (Stanford & Harvard graduate)
• Sophie Lung — women’s coach and founder of Master Your Saboteurs and Thriving Women workshops

Together, we explore why many difficult relationships are labelled toxic, how language around safety and boundaries has shifted across generations, and why not all unhealthy dynamics come from “bad” people — but from mismatched nervous systems, attachment patterns, and unresolved childhood wounds.

This episode covers:

• What “toxic” really means — and when the label is misused
• Toxic masculinity, insecurity, and exaggerated behaviours
• Why people often sense red flags early — but ignore them
• Codependency vs narcissism (and why they’re often confused)
• The role of attachment styles and childhood conditioning
• Why passion, chaos, and intensity can feel addictive
• How familiarity can feel like safety — even when it’s harmful
• Whether couples therapy can genuinely change toxic dynamics
• When staying “for the children” may do more harm than good

This is an honest, nuanced conversation about love, conflict, attraction, and why many of us repeat relationship patterns — even when they hurt.

If you’ve ever asked yourself:
Why did I stay so long? Why did I ignore the red flags? Why does stability feel boring and chaos feel alive?
— this episode will resonate.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• “Toxic” is often used too broadly — not all unhealthy relationships involve bad people
• Childhood experiences strongly influence adult attraction and attachment
• Red flags are often visible early but ignored during the honeymoon phase
• Passion and instability can feel more exciting than safety
• Codependent and narcissistic traits often stem from the same root: lack of self-worth
• Nervous system regulation plays a major role in relationship choices
• Couples therapy can help — but only when both partners genuinely want change
• Self-awareness is often the first step out of unhealthy patterns

🧠 Conclusion

This episode reminds us that relationships are rarely simple. What feels intoxicating can be familiar rather than healthy, and what looks stable can feel emotionally unsafe depending on our past.

By understanding the psychology behind attraction, attachment, and conflict, we gain compassion — not just for others, but for ourselves — and clearer insight into what kind of love actually allows us to grow.

🔗 Links

🎧 Subscribe to Ella Podcasts on YouTube:
https://www.youtub

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

If you'd like to suggest episode subjects please reach out to us. Thank you!

The Changing Role of White Men in the Workplace | DEI, Meritocracy & Fairness at Work

What does fairness in the workplace really look like today?
Has diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) corrected historical imbalances — or created new tensions?

In this episode of Ella Podcasts, we explore the changing role of white men in the corporate world, the impact of DEI policies, and the complex questions surrounding meritocracy, opportunity, and discrimination in modern workplaces.

Drawing on my background in human resources, this conversation looks at how organisations are navigating DEI targets, legal challenges, and cultural change — and what this means for employees across generations, including young white men entering the workforce today.

I’m joined by:

• Dr Jonathan Marshall — psychologist and former professor (Stanford & Harvard graduate)
• Simon J. Littlewood — journalist, business advisor, author, and BBC World Service contributor
• Sameer Kothari — fund manager with global executive search experience

Together, we discuss:
• Whether DEI is correcting imbalance or creating unintended consequences
• Meritocracy vs quotas in hiring and leadership
• Why DEI has become legally and culturally contentious
• How identity, education, and opportunity shape career outcomes
• The “pendulum effect” in workplace culture
• What fairness at work could look like moving forward

This is a challenging but necessary conversation about power, opportunity, inclusion, and how organisations can balance compassion with competence in an evolving world of work.

At Ella Podcasts, the aim is not agreement — but understanding. We believe difficult conversations can be explored thoughtfully, respectfully, and without losing humanity.

🎧 If you’re interested in workplace culture, leadership, HR, DEI, equality, and the future of work, this episode offers a wide-ranging perspective.

Editorial Note

The views expressed by guests in this episode are their own and do not necessarily reflect my personal opinions or those of Ella Podcasts. This conversation is intended to explore a complex topic, not to endorse specific viewpoints.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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