How You Go There Podcast

What if everything you’ve been taught about success is backwards?
In this episode of How You Go There, Scott and Linda dive into one of the most overlooked — yet powerful — drivers of personal and professional growth: relationships.
From challenging the idea that success is built on skills alone, to exploring how the right relationships create access, opportunity, and momentum, this conversation reframes how you think about your journey.
You’ll learn why every meaningful milestone in your life likely traces back to a person, how to identify the relationships shaping your path, and what it actually looks like to build intentional, high-impact connections.
Plus, we introduce a practical exercise from the How You Go There workbook: relationship mapping — helping you break down your network into mentors, supporters, challengers, and more.
Whether you're looking to grow your career, strengthen your network, or better understand your path, this episode will challenge you to rethink who’s on your “train” — and why it matters.
In this episode:
Why “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know” is more true than you think
How relationships shape your career and life trajectory
The difference between relationships and partnerships
How to map and evaluate your current network
Why you need both supporters and challengers
When it’s time to strengthen, repair, or release relationships
Reflect on this:
If someone mapped you, what role would you play in their life?
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to the series and focus on relationships00:52 Why relationships are central to success01:31 Scott’s UVA story and late-career milestone03:35 Key takeaway from students: relationships matter most04:33 “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know” explained05:22 Every milestone is tied to a relationship06:08 How relationships create opportunity in careers07:25 Honoring and sustaining relationships over time08:26 Relationships vs partnerships explained10:32 Why relationships are often underestimated12:22 Long-term relationships and trust in action13:26 Skills vs relationships debate15:30 How relationships create access and opportunity16:01 Introduction to relationship mapping exercise18:03 How to map your network (mentors, supporters, challengers)20:07 Key realizations from mapping relationships23:22 Three core takeaways from the episode25:03 Final reflections on growth and relationships25:41 Where to connect and follow the podcast

Who you partner with can shape everything—your business, your growth, and your life.
In this episode, Scott and Linda explore the difference between partnerships and relationships, introduce the “Kite vs String” framework, and share practical ways to identify strengths, growth areas, and complementary skill sets.
If you want to build stronger partnerships and become a more effective leader, this episode is for you.
 
Find more at howyougothere.com

Before you can move forward in your career or leadership journey, you need to understand what brought you here.
In this episode of the How You Go There Podcast, hosts Scott Montgomery and Linda Misegadis kick off the season by walking through the very first exercise in the How You Go There workbook — reflecting on your journey.
Through personal stories and practical leadership insights, Scott and Linda explore how pivotal moments, relationships, and decisions shape our professional paths. They also share simple exercises to help you pause, reflect, and identify where you want to go next.
You'll hear real examples of leadership lessons, career missteps, and the powerful role that mentorship and partnerships can play in shaping your trajectory.
If you’ve ever asked yourself “How did I get here?” or wondered what your next step should be, this episode will help you begin that process with intention.
In This Episode You'll Learn
• Why reflection is the first step to meaningful career growth• How pivotal moments shape leadership development• The importance of relationships and partnerships in your journey• A simple exercise to clarify where you are and where you're going• How small actions today can move your career forward
Key Takeaways
✔ Write your “Here Statement” — why you are where you are today✔ Choose one short-term goal for the next 30 days✔ Identify one action step that moves you forward
Growth doesn't start with a five-year plan.It starts with understanding your story.
Resources
Learn more about the workbook and resources:https://howyougothere.com
Explore more episodes and links:https://linktr.ee/hygtpodcast
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to the How You Go There Podcast00:41 Why understanding your journey matters01:23 The first exercise in the HYGT workbook02:13 Why partnerships and relationships shape our careers03:24 Scott’s early career story and a pivotal leadership lesson05:16 A career mistake that almost ended in termination06:16 The power of trust and relationships in leadership07:01 Linda shares a leadership lesson from defending her team08:32 A career setback that became a leadership growth moment09:23 Leadership starts with how you respond to challenges10:00 Sponsor message11:05 Reflecting on the “season” of your career11:35 How journaling and reflection create clarity13:02 Questions to help you evaluate your partnerships14:16 The simple framework: Where are you, why are you here, and what are your goals?16:12 Coaching leaders through career frustration17:28 Why reflection helps you move forward17:44 Actionable exercises from the workbook18:04 Write your “Here Statement”18:59 Setting one goal for the next 30 days20:23 Identifying your next small step21:07 Why small actions create momentum21:28 Final takeaways and reflections22:02 Wrapping up the episode and preview of next week

Welcome to Episode 12 of How You Go There (HYGT Podcast) — a space where we go beyond traditional success stories to uncover the real strategies, skills, and turning points that shape careers and leadership.
In this episode, hosts Scott Montgomery (ICF Certified Leadership Coach and author of How Did You Get Here?) and Linda Misegadis (business strategist and host of Her Resources Podcast) open up about what it means to pause, reset, and realign in your career.
They share an honest conversation about self-reflection, fulfillment, and how to apply coaching tools at every stage of your career — even after decades of experience.
🎧 Listen in to learn:
When it’s time to “reset” your career direction
The difference between coaching, therapy, advising, and mentorship
How to apply your professional experience in new, meaningful ways
Why vulnerability and trust are key to growth
The power of reflective tools like the How You Go There Companion Guide
🕒 Chapter Markers
00:00 – Introduction: What Do You Do With All Your Experience?01:05 – Welcome to How You Go There02:00 – Why It’s Time to Reset04:00 – Practicing What You Preach06:30 – Setting Goals and Evaluating Relationships08:00 – Giveaway: Win How Did You Get Here? + Companion Guide10:00 – Coaching vs. Therapy and Finding Fulfillment15:00 – The Value of Vulnerability19:00 – Mentoring, Authenticity, and Leadership Growth24:00 – Trust, Transparency, and Effective Coaching30:00 – Final Takeaways: Sustainable Success and Self-Discovery
🎁 Promo Code:Use HYGTEP12 for exclusive discounts on How You Go There resources.
📘 Free Resource:Download our free guide — Finding Your Coach → https://www.howyougothere.com/exercise-pdfs/p/finding-your-coach-pdf
🌐 Learn More:Website: https://www.howyougothere.comConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/how-you-go-thereListen on Podbean: https://howyougothere.podbean.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/howyougotherepod
💬 Join the Conversation:Have you ever felt like you needed a career reset? What helped you find your direction? Drop your thoughts below and let’s talk about it!
#HowYouGoThere #LeadershipDevelopment #CareerReset #Coaching #Podcast #ScottMontgomery #LindaMisegadis #PersonalGrowth #SelfReflection

Episode 11 – Go First | How You Go There Podcast
Leadership isn’t about waiting your turn — it’s about knowing when to step up. In this episode, hosts Scott Montgomery and Linda Misegadis explore the power of going first—whether in meetings, career transitions, or personal growth.
You’ll learn how to overcome fear, judgment, and imposter syndrome while building the confidence to create opportunities. From ice-breaking in the workplace to finding mentors and opening doors in everyday life, this conversation shows how taking the first step can change the trajectory of your career and leadership journey.
💡 What You’ll Discover:
Why going first builds influence and credibility
How leaders can create safe environments for others to step up
Practical strategies to balance humility, courage, and vulnerability
The role of relationships in advancing your leadership growth
📥 Free Resource for Leaders & Young Professionals:Download our Habit Tracker PDF with code HYGTEP11 → Download Here
🌐 Learn more at howyougothere.com
#LeadershipGrowth #SelfDevelopment #YoungLeaders #LeadershipJourney #HowYouGoTherePodcast
 
00:00 – Opening InsightsFear, judgment, and the challenge of speaking up.
02:10 – Why Going First MattersConfidence, leadership, and creating opportunity.
04:00 – Icebreakers at WorkSpeaking up in meetings and setting the tone.
06:30 – Humility & IntentionalityHow to “go first” without overperforming.
08:15 – Building Mentorship Through InitiativeTurning vulnerability into mentorship opportunities.
09:45 – Confidence & RestraintBalancing courage with listening and learning.
12:10 – Mentoring & Gender DynamicsDifferent styles of collaboration and mentoring.
15:15 – Public Speaking as a Leadership SkillWhy speaking up develops long-term leadership growth.
17:00 – Everyday Examples of Going FirstFrom networking to personal apologies.
20:00 – Leadership & Safe EnvironmentsHow leaders foster spaces for others to step forward.
22:20 – Key TakeawaysBuilding confidence, taking initiative, and creating opportunities.
23:00 – Free Resource + ClosingHabit Tracker PDF with code HYGTEP11.

Episode 10 – From Job #1 to Job #2: Building the Bridge
Your first job might get you started, but it’s the second job where careers really begin to take shape. In this episode, Scott and Linda talk about what it takes to successfully move from Job #1 to Job #2 — without losing momentum.
Hear how reputation, authentic relationships, and staying prepared for opportunities can open doors you didn’t even know existed. If you’ve ever wondered how to leverage your first job into the next big move, this episode is your playbook.
💡 FREE PDF GIVEAWAY:Get the Effects of Habits PDF from the How You Go There Companion Guide for free with promo code HYGTEP10:https://www.howyougothere.com/exercise-pdfs/p/effects-of-habits
🔗 Explore More:🌐 Website: howyougothere.com🔗 All Links: linktr.ee/hygtpodcast
⏱️ Podbean Chapter Markers
00:00 – Why Your Second Job is Pivotal
01:17 – Reputation is the Best Resume
03:00 – Building Relationships that Open Doors
05:24 – Job #1 Lessons that Propel Job #2
07:10 – Linda’s Career Story: From Secretary to Finance
09:30 – The Power of Authentic Networking
12:00 – Follow-Up, Gratitude & Staying Ready
14:30 – Exploring New Industries Without Fear
16:45 – Turning Conversations Into Opportunities
17:43 – Key Takeaways & Practical Career Advice
19:27 – Free PDF Giveaway & Closing

Episode 9 of How You Go There explores networking as the foundation of career and leadership success.
Scott and Linda discuss how networking starts with your very first job and continues throughout your career. They share candid insights into how meaningful connections—whether with peers, executives, or mentors—can transform your path and lead to future opportunities you never expected.
This episode goes beyond surface-level advice to show you how to network authentically, follow up with purpose, and turn professional relationships into lasting ones.
🎁 Don’t miss your FREE Habit Action Plan PDF — a practical guide to turn networking insights into daily action. Get it at: https://www.howyougothere.com/exercise-pdfs/p/habit-action-plan using promo code HYGTEP9.
🌐 Learn more at: https://www.howyougothere.com
⏱️ Timestamps:
0:00 – Introduction2:00 – Networking starts with your first job4:00 – How relationships come full circle6:00 – Showing up prepared for connection8:00 – Building relationships with leaders10:00 – Using LinkedIn & personalization13:00 – Authentic follow-up & gratitude15:00 – Cross-functional networking17:00 – Remembering details that matter18:00 – Networking that becomes lifelong friendship20:00 – Closing insights

Episode 8 of How You Go There explores what it really takes to grow your career: relationships, networking, and communication. Scott Montgomery and Linda Misegadis share stories from their first jobs, lessons learned in leadership, and strategies to stand out in any workplace.
If you’re serious about leadership growth and self development, this episode will give you practical steps to connect authentically, overcome insecurities, and open doors for new opportunities.
🎁 FREE RESOURCE: Download the Build Stronger Habits exercise at https://www.howyougothere.com/exercise-pdfs/p/build-stronger-habits with promo code HYGTEP8
🌐 Visit us at howyougothere.com🔗 More links: https://linktr.ee/HYGTPodcast
⏱️ Timestamps
0:00 – Why networking is the key to career success2:00 – Lessons from our first jobs5:00 – Doing more than the daily tasks7:00 – Facing insecurities and going first10:30 – The role of body language in leadership14:00 – Reframing questions to open opportunities16:00 – Leadership communication exercises18:00 – Finding balance between tasks and networking20:00 – Streamlining awareness for faster growth22:00 – Breaking the ice with small gestures23:00 – LinkedIn networking strategies24:00 – Building strong networks early25:00 – Wrap up and next steps

Welcome back to Part Two of How to Build Real Relationships at Work, where Scott Montgomery and Linda Misegadis go beyond titles and résumés to show how real connection, vulnerability, and follow-through are the most powerful leadership tools you have.
🎁 FREE Download – Habit Assessment PDFGet it here: https://www.howyougothere.com/exercise-pdfs/p/habit-assessment-pdfUse promo code: HYGTEP7
🧠 Learn how:
Real relationships—not job titles—shape your career path
Promotions and opportunities often start with conversations, not applications
A wide-ranging career built on trust, gratitude, and curiosity sets you apart as a leader
Visual impressions and preparedness play crucial roles in networking
🌐 More resources at: howyougothere.com
⏱️ Podbean Timestamps:
00:00 – Recap and Setup for Part 201:23 – The Power of Relationship-Based Career Moves02:28 – Promotions Through Trusted Connections04:18 – How Linda’s Reputation Opened New Roles06:04 – Giveaway Announcement07:10 – From Receptionist to Leadership: Linda’s Story10:09 – Strategic Networking That Created a New Role13:12 – Transferring Skills Across Industries14:04 – Expanding Leadership Perspective Through Variety15:04 – Podcasting Turned Into Business Coaching16:22 – How to Make a Strong First Impression17:15 – Thoughtful Outreach Tips17:32 – Why Titles Don’t Matter18:12 – Respect + Effort = Long-Term Career Success19:05 – Free Resource & Final Reflections

Episode 6 (Part 1): Relationships Are the Real Resume
This week on How You Go There, Scott and Linda revisit the foundation of every successful career: relationships. From your first job to executive leadership, the ability to connect with people is the skill that moves careers forward—and this episode unpacks exactly how to do it.
💡 Learn how to:
Build trust across all levels of an organization
Make a lasting impression with executives and peers
Follow up in meaningful and memorable ways
Use small acts of thoughtfulness to build long-term connections
🎁 Download your FREE Relationship Action Plan PDF at:https://www.howyougothere.com/exercise-pdfs/p/relationship-action-plan-pdfUse code HYGTEP6 at checkout!
🌐 Website: https://www.howyougothere.com🔗 Linktree: https://linktr.ee/HYGTPodcast
 
📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Corporate vs. familial relationships
03:06 – Why your first job is a relationship training ground
06:30 – How to show up and make a lasting impression
08:18 – Making the most of face time with leaders
10:00 – How to ask for advice the right way
12:16 – Researching people before connecting
13:16 – Building relationships beyond titles
15:00 – The power of gratitude and thoughtful follow-up
17:10 – Remembering the small stuff: names, birthdays, kids
19:20 – What’s the line between personal and professional?
20:58 – Scott and Linda’s stories about crossing that line in meaningful ways