colorful futures, the podcast
"Colorful Futures" is the podcast that'll make you want to jump out of bed on Tuesday mornings. (Okay, maybe not jump, but at least crawl with a bit more enthusiasm.) Host Liora Alvarez, Founder of Colorful Futures, is all about helping you craft a career that's as unique and fabulous as you are.
Here's the deal: we believe in building a life that's not just about paying the bills, but also about making your soul do a happy dance. Whether you're neurodivergent, queer, BIPOC, gender-marginalized, or just feeling a bit 'square peg in a round hole' - we've got your back.
So whether you're dreaming of diving into a whole new industry, or breaking free from the 9-to-5 grind, or just want a job that doesn't make you want to hide under your desk - we're here to help you paint your future in all the colors of the rainbow (and then some).
Picture this: you, a comfy chair, and conversations so real they'll make you forget you're wearing headphones. We bring you chats with folks who've been there, done that, and got the t-shirt (and maybe a few battle scars) in entrepreneurship, career pivots, and the mythical work-life balance. No sugar-coating, no corporate jargon - just honest talk and practical advice that'll make you say, "Why didn't I think of that?"
Join us for some laughs, a few "aha!" moments, and the occasional ugly cry as we navigate this crazy thing called "career" together. Trust us, it's going to be one heck of a ride - and we can't wait to have you along for it! 💖
S1 E4: getting fired was my wake-up call: how ADHD and burnout helped me discover the power of workplace accommodations
In this week’s episode, I decided to be a bit vulnerable and talk about a tough chapter in my career – the times I got fired (yep, more than once 😅). I share how not knowing I had ADHD played a huge role in my burnout and struggles at work. I talk about finally breaking free from retail and landing my dream job, only to be gut punched with the question: “Is this really the right job for you?” (Spoiler alert: it wasn’t, and it left me questioning everything about myself and how I work.)
Here's the thing – so many of us are square pegs trying to squeeze into round holes. Our beautifully unique, neurodivergent brains just don't fit neatly into the cookie-cutter systems of most workplaces. And let me tell you, it's exhausting trying to keep up that mask all day, every day.
So, if you've ever found yourself ugly-crying in the office bathroom (no judgment here, been there, done that, got the t-shirt), or if you've ever felt like you're one missed deadline away from a total meltdown, this episode is for you. We're going to talk all about the messy, the awkward, and yes, even the funny side of trying to find our place in the working world.
Ready to laugh, maybe cry a little, and most importantly, feel less alone in this wild ride we call a career? Then stick around, because we're about to get real, get vulnerable, and maybe, just maybe, figure out how to thrive without burning out. 💖
S1 E3: Work Smarter Not Harder: Building A Solid Job Search Foundation
Welcome to the third episode of Colorful Futures! In this episode, I'll be sharing my career coaching framework - an approach I've developed to help job seekers build a strong foundation for their search.
We'll be exploring four key components: career discovery, resume crafting, LinkedIn optimization, and creating a job search toolkit. Each of these elements plays a crucial role in helping you navigate your career path more effectively.
I'm particularly excited to discuss how these strategies can benefit my fellow AuDHDers and other individuals with marginalized identities. My goal is to provide you with clear, actionable insights that can help enhance your job search and bring you closer to your career aspirations.
So, get cozy, grab something to fidget with, maybe even a little snack, and let's dive into episode three and explore how you can use these tools to create a more focused and successful job search strategy.
S1 E2: Quality vs. Quantity
In this episode of the Colorful Futures Podcast, we’re tackling the whole “quality vs. quantity” debate when it comes to job applications. You know how, at the start of your job search, you’re all thoughtful, excited, and picky about what roles you want? But then, as time goes on, you start lowering the bar and applying to anything just to get a response? Yeah, we’ve all been there. 🥴
I’m here to remind you that it’s important to stay intentional and focused on what you need from a job, rather than just sending out as many applications as possible. I’ll share why taking breaks and doing things that bring you peace can help you avoid burnout. Oh, and that idea of finding a “perfect career” is a myth! What really matters is staying connected to your values and making sure you’re doing what feels right for you.
So, let’s keep it real—grab a coffee or your favorite snack and something to fidget with, get comfy, and join me as we chat about making your job search a little more meaningful and a lot less stressful. 💖
S1 E1: Do It Scared
In the very first episode of the Colorful Futures Podcast, I'm taking you on the rollercoaster ride that is the ups and downs of launching this podcast. I talk about how me and my old pals—imposter syndrome and that relentless fear of failure— decide to put our differences aside and launch this podcast anyway. Because why not? Life's an adventure and it's too short not do things that make you excited!
I'll also be sharing how being neurodivergent, disabled, and queer has shaped my career journey. This isn’t just another podcast; it's the start of building a community where every one of us gets to be seen, heard, and celebrated for exactly who we are.
So grab your favorite snack and something to fidget with, get comfy, and join me in this new chapter of my very own Colorful Future (see what I did there). Buckle up—this is just the start of something amazing, and I couldn't be more excited for you to be part of it! 💖