Reframe. Apply. Repeat: On Job Searching, Self-Worth & Women

with Jennifer Paine

Helena Brandist

Jun 11, 2025

Transcript

TL;DR

In this empowering episode Helena sits down with career coach Jennifer Paine to unpack the emotional, practical, and deeply personal realities of job searching, especially as a woman in today’s tech landscape. From reframing self-doubt to navigating systemic bias, this conversation is all about self-compassion, intentionality, and resilience.

What You’ll Discover:

The Invisible Weight of Conditioning:
Jennifer and Helena explore how social norms and upbringing influence the way women navigate careers—especially the pressure to overwork, downplay achievements, and constantly apologise.

From Self-Doubt to Reframing:
Learn actionable mindset shifts and exercises Jennifer uses with her clients to counter limiting beliefs, rewrite internal narratives, and build lasting confidence during the job search.

Red Flags & Gut Feelings in Hiring:
The two dig into how to spot signs of toxic culture during interviews, and why listening to your instincts isn’t just emotional—it’s strategic.

The Power of Vulnerability:
Jennifer shares how publicly telling her story on LinkedIn led to a ripple effect of openness and community-building, encouraging other women to show up fully, too.

A Smarter, Kinder Job Search Strategy:
Say goodbye to the midnight mass-application panic. Discover how focus, clarity, and a values-aligned approach can actually improve your chances—and your sanity.

Redefining Leadership and Success:
Helena and Jennifer imagine a work culture built on empathy, not hustle. One where vulnerability is strength, and women can lead without performing masculinity.

Why this episode matters for community builders:

This episode isn’t just about job searching, it’s about the quiet, powerful communities we create when we share honestly, support each other, and speak up about the hard stuff. Whether through vulnerable LinkedIn posts, peer coaching, or reaching out to someone navigating rejection, we build trust, belonging, and resilience together.

It’s a reminder that community isn’t just built in public forums, it’s built in every moment we choose connection over competition.

Featured Insights from Jennifer & Helena:

"You wouldn't tell your best friend she'll never land a job—so why do we say it to ourselves?"
"The job market is tough, yes. But that doesn’t mean you’re not worthy—it just means the system needs changing."
"Reframing isn’t toxic positivity. It’s about holding space for reality and still choosing hope."
"Authentic leadership isn’t about being tough. It’s about being real, human, and supportive.