In this episode, Dr. Sharon interviews career development researcher Dr. Tristram Hooley about integrating entrepreneurship into sustainable career pathways. They challenge the common “flexibility and wealth” narrative by noting uneven access to capital and networks, frequent failure, and that self-employment can mean lower pay and longer hours. Hooley argues that career guidance should support access to decent work, avoid shifting risk onto individuals, and include socially-just practices such as recognizing power dynamics, questioning norms, acting collectively, and considering cooperative or social entrepreneurship.

Dr. Tristram Hooley is a leading expert in career development, employability, and the future of work. As a researcher, author, and thought leader, he has published extensively on career guidance, social justice, and the impact of technology on careers. Tristram is Professor of Career Education at the University of Derby and a Visiting Professor at the Inland Norway University and Canterbury Christ Church University. He is also an advocate for evidence-based practice in career development and a frequent speaker at international conferences. He is the author of 16 books on career and associated topics and his most recent book is the third edition of The Careers Leader Handbook which support practitioners in schools to run high quality careers education programmes. He writes the Adventures in Career Development blog at: https://adventuresincareerdevelopment.wordpress.com/

In this episode host Dr. Sharon Givens, a licensed professional counselor, and Dr. Eric Williams, a respected voice in mental health, explore practical strategies to protect mental health in 2026. They discuss mental health's importance in daily life, navigating stress, common issues like anxiety and depression, and the interconnectedness of mental and physical health. Their conversation highlights simple, actionable steps for maintaining well-being, the significance of seeking help, and the need for quality, normalized mental health care. Listeners are encouraged to perform self-check-ins and remember they are not alone in their struggles.

Dr. Eric Williams is the Associate Dean of Student Affairs and Career Advising at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Columbia. In addition, he works with the Prisma Health Midlands ACT team. He earned his medical degree from the Wake Forest University School of Medicine and completed his general residency and child and adolescent fellowship with the Palmetto Health Alliance/University of South Carolina School of Medicine. Eric worked in an academic setting, an inpatient setting, in juvenile justice, college student mental health, and as a traveling psychiatrist prior to his current positions. His after-hours job is as a group exercise instructor at One Life Fitness.

In this episode host Dr. Sharon Givens presents a Women's Reflection Panel with inspiring leaders: Melanie Calhoun, Dr. Carla Cheatham, and Dr. Marian Higgins. These women share their journeys from the past year, discussing their personal and professional wins, and emphasize themes such as perseverance, purpose, and transformation. They reflect on the importance of self-care, balancing responsibilities, and finding spiritual grounding. The conversation is rich with wisdom on leadership, authenticity, managing stress, and staying aligned with one's purpose. As they look ahead to 2026, they offer encouragement and practical advice for leading with impact.

Melanie G. Calhoun, LPC, PMH-C, NCC is a licensed professional counselor, certified perinatal mental health specialist, and Ph.D. candidate in Counselor Education and Practice at Georgia State University. She is the founder of Stone and Flower Counseling, where she provides culturally responsive therapy and consultation to Black birthing people. Her clinical and research work centers on Black maternal mental health, racial stress, and trauma-informed care, with a focus on ethical and sustainable practices for clinicians of color. Melanie is a National Board for Certified Counselors Minority Fellow, a Chi Sigma Iota Leadership Intern, and a SACES Emerging Leader. Through her work as a therapist, educator, and community advocate, Melanie is committed to advancing equity in mental health care and supporting Black maternal wellbeing across clinical, academic, and policy settings.

Carla B. Cheatham, Ph.D., LCPC, NCC, CSCDA is an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Seattle University Online School Counseling Master’s Program. Dr. Cheatham received her Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Governors State University. Dr. Cheatham has over 25 years of experience in school counseling. She is a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC- IL) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). She has earned the Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF) credential and the Certified School Career Development Advisor (CSCDA) credential. Dr. Cheatham’s areas of experience include Academic, Career, and Social/Emotional School Counseling, Advocacy and Social Justice, Cultural Humility, Postsecondary Options, Multiculturalism, Inclusion, and Diversity. She has presented nationally on topics regarding antiracist school counseling, diversity, equity, and inclusion issues for school counseling. Dr. Cheatham is the School Career Counselor and Specialists (K-12) Board of Trustee for the National Career Development Association (NCDA).

Dr. Marian Higgins is an award-winning professional speaker, consultant, therapist, and advocate known for strategically transforming work cultures to improve the employee experience. Dr. Higgins works with individuals and organizations who want to center wellness and humanity in how they live, lead, and work. With over 25 years of organizational development and leadership experience, Dr.
Higgins has led organizational change and continues to advise executive leaders on advancing healthy work environments by assessing systems, policies, and practices. She has worked with educational institutions, corporations, non-profits, and professional associations, delivering keynotes, workshops, and consultations on employee engagement and wellness, organizational transformation, and human-centered leadership. Known for her calm demeanor, transparency, and ability to tackle tough topics, A licensed professional counselor, Dr. Higgins specializes in supporting clients with work trauma and career transitions. Her clients inspire her to advocate for better workplaces. Dr. Higgins received her Ph.D. in counseling and personnel services from The University of Georgia, a Master of Science degree in counseling from the University of Memphis, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT.