The Future of Work: Why One Job May No Longer Be Enough
In this episode of The Portfolio Pod, co-hosts Caroline McAuliffe and Jacinta Whelan, explore the seismic shifts redefining the world of work. With traditional career paths giving way to portfolio careers, project-based roles, and flexible work models, we ask: Is one job still enough? Our guest, Steve Vamos—former CEO of Xero and veteran of Microsoft, Apple, and IBM—shares insights from his book Through Shifts and Shocks, offering a front-line perspective on navigating disruption and building a resilient, purpose-driven career. We unpack the evolving nature of leadership and career design in a world where one job may no longer be enough. Steve Vamos shares how the shift from traditional employment to portfolio careers is reshaping how we define success, lead others, and navigate change. We explore the balance between the “being” and “doing” of leadership, and how identity evolves when stepping outside corporate structures. Steve offers practical insights for managing transitions and uncertainty, especially in careers marked by flexibility and frequent reinvention. Drawing on decades of experience in tech—from mainframes to AI—he reflects on the timeless skills that remain essential and how to prepare for the next wave of disruption. We also dive into the mindset needed to thrive in a non-linear, multi-career world, including how to lead without a formal title and influence without authority. Finally, we explore how CEOs and corporates are rethinking talent strategies in response to the rise of fractional roles and AI-driven transformation. Steve leaves listeners with one powerful piece of advice for navigating the future of work—tune in to hear it! Source References for Episode Quotes & Data Points Featured Book Through Shifts and Shocks: Lessons from the Front Line of Technology and Change by Steve Vamos Key Data Points 65% of today’s children will work in jobs that don’t yet exist (WEF) 30% of tasks in most jobs could be automated by 2027 40%+ of organisations are shifting to on-demand, flexible talent models Book Reference The Rise of the Interim ExecutiveOfficial Website: The Rise of the Interim Executive Also available on Amazon Australia Host LinkedIn Profiles Caroline McAuliffe – LinkedIn Profile Jacinta Whelan – Linkedin Profile See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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The Hallmark Episode — Setting the Scene
In this inaugural episode of The Portfolio Pod, co-hosts Caroline McAuliffe and Jacinta Whelan lay the foundation for a series of conversations that explore the evolving nature of executive careers and the future of work. Born from the insights and momentum of their co-authored book, The Rise of the Interim Executive, this episode introduces the why behind the podcast: to create a forum where experts, practitioners, and forward-thinking leaders come together to discuss, challenge, and debate how we engage with work in a rapidly changing world. As organisations evolve to become more future-ready and sustainable, and individuals increasingly choose portfolio careers over traditional executive roles, this episode sets the tone for what’s to come — a space for education, inspiration, and agency. Caroline and Jacinta share their vision for empowering professionals to take ownership of their career transitions, offering hope and practical insight into how to be prepared, empowered, and excited about this next phase. Source References for Episode Quotes & Data Points '65% of Senior Executives Are Exploring Portfolio Careers' Rethinking the Executive Path: Rise of the Portfolio Career – Rialto Consultancy Read the report '53% of Executives Seek External Roles for Innovation and Learning' How Portfolio Careers Are Redefining Executive Success – Forbes Forbes article 'AI and Flexibility Are Driving the Shift' PwC Future of Work Report PwC Future of Work 'Human-centric skills and flexible work structures' Mercer Global Talent Trends Report 2024–2025 Mercer Talent Trends Book Reference The Rise of the Interim ExecutiveOfficial Website: The Rise of the Interim Executive Also available on Amazon Australia Host LinkedIn Profiles Caroline McAuliffe – LinkedIn Profile Jacinta Whelan – Linkedin Profile DisclaimerThe views, opinions, and advice expressed by hosts and guests on this podcast are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the producers or affiliated organisations. This content is intended for entertainment and educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional advice. If any topic discussed raises personal concerns or emotional distress, we strongly encourage listeners to seek support from qualified medical, psychological, or mental health professionals.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Portfolio Pod explores the future of executive careers and work. Hosted by Jacinta Whelan and Caroline McAuliffe, it’s a forum for experts and leaders to discuss how organisations and individuals are evolving. Focused on agency, empowerment, and readiness, the podcast supports those transitioning from traditional roles into portfolio careers. Each episode offers insight into how to be prepared, build market presence, and thrive in a flexible, purpose-driven career.
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