Future You: achieve your career goals
Self-Improvement
About
Future You is a careers and student advice podcast.From A-level results day → Day 1 of your first job, and everything in between.
Episodes
- Your digital footprint could cost you a job - here’s how to fix it
This episode of Future You discusses how employers screen job candidates online, impacting hiring decisions. Experts Susie Thomson and Martin Hardy explain why social media checks are routine, how to manage your digital footprint, and the…
- I studied my Masters in three different countries across Europe
Simone Saccaggi shares his experience of completing a triple Masters degree in Management, Finance, and Tech across three European countries on the Future You podcast. He offers advice for prospective students interested in international s…
- How to land a graduate scheme with no relevant experience
Megan Taylor discusses her journey from psychology and healthcare to securing a spot on the TransPennine Express graduate scheme. The episode covers the application process, including psychometric tests and assessment centres, and how tran…
- All you need to know about apprenticeships 2026
This episode of Future You discusses apprenticeships for 2026, covering what prospective apprentices need to know. Guests include talent attraction manager Erin McKelvey, early careers partner Holly Slater, and apprentices Matthew Farrow a…
- Future You Trailer 2026 (achieve your career goals)
Future You Trailer 2026 previews the podcast's focus on career planning, including topics such as apprenticeships, career changes, and salary support. Listeners can register at Prospects.ac.uk for personalized advice and opportunities.
- Working as a pilot: Training, opportunities and how to start
This week James, a captain based at Heathrow shares his career journey from training in the RAF to becoming a certified trainer. He talks about the importance of both technical and soft skills, how you can practise flying a plane at home,…
- Working in sustainability: What does the job involve and do you need a science degree? (Spoiler: no)
Catherine joins us this week to talk us through what the role involves, how she got there despite studying ancient history at university, and the key skills that make her successful in the job. Read more from Catherine: https://www.prospec…
- Working in sales: From retail to cruise ship to account manager
What’s it really like working in sales? This week I chat to Hollie, an account manager for Prospects who shares her career journey so far - from the shop floor at Argos, to taking on cruise ship contracts and working at sea, and now to her…
- Why study MSc Psychology? | with the University of Essex Online
This week we're joined by Dr Elle Boag, head of psychology at the University of Essex Online, to explore the MSc Psychology programme. Dr Boag breaks down the structure, key modules, research project, and the type of students who thrive on…
- Becoming a voluntary magistrate: What it really takes
This week I'm joined by Luke Sambridge, who became a magistrate at just 20 years old. Luke explains what magistrates really do, the skills that matter most, and why people from all backgrounds, not just legal experts, can apply. ⬇️ Connect…
- Why study Master of Public Health? | with the University of Liverpool Online
This week I’m joined by Dr Vickie Bates and Dr Ranjit Khutan, programme directors for the University of Liverpool’s Online Master of Public Health (MPH). We discuss what makes this flexible, part-time course stand out - from its industry-f…
- How to get a career in the arts | with the National Theatre
This week, to mark Discover Creative Careers month, I go behind the scenes at the National Theatre (NT) to chat to Simon Stephens, head of the NT Skills Centre. We talk about the opportunities the programme provides to help people of all a…
- Why study international business law LLM? | with the University of Liverpool Online
In this episode, we chat with Aref Hussein and Professor Padraig McAuliffe from the University of Liverpool about the online LLM in International Business Law. They explain what the course offers, who it’s for, and how it helps students to…
- The role of a play therapist: Helping children heal through play
This week we’re joined by Harriet Kirby who works as a play therapist. She tells us about her educational journey, which included taking some time out to re-think what she really wanted to do, and what being a play therapist involves. ⬇️ C…
- Keep calm and carry on: The realities of being a CEO
This week I’m joined by Heidi Fraser-Krauss, the Chief Executive of Jisc as she shares her career journey. We talk about the lessons she’s learned about resilience, communication, and self-awareness, and why true leadership is more about r…
- ADHD at work: Should workplaces have neurodiversity coaches?
This week, I'm joined again by Helen Garcia, discussing her role as an ADHD coach who has carved out a unique and much-needed role in today’s workplaces. We explore what it means to support neurodivergent employees, how ADHD shows up in pr…
- The realities of being a builder: Hard work, grit and groundwork
From grave digging to running his own building company, Brian Tabony joins us this week to talk about his career as a builder. We discuss the skills required to thrive in the construction industry, and why resilience and hands-on learning…
- Breaking into web design: Digital careers in the age of AI
This week I'm joined by Andy Bishop who shares his journey from studying typography to leading a digital agency. Andy shares how he taught himself web design during the .com boom, the skills every designer needs today, and why there’s stil…
- Why study business? | with the University of Essex Online
This week I’m joined by Luke Johnson, the programme coordinator for business at the University of Essex Online. We discuss the MSc Business with Finance, the Master of Business Management (MBM) and the MSc Business Management and Business…
- From hobby to career: Advice from a podcast producer
In this episode, Sophia Tang sits down with Emily Slade, who went from running her own hobby podcasts to landing a role in professional podcast production for Prospects. They discuss the realities of producing a podcast, the behind-the-sce…
- Breaking into UX design: Tips, skills, and how to enter the industry
This week, I’m joined by Emma Clayton, who began her career as a graphic designer and has since transitioned into user experience (UX). She shares what inspired her to make the switch, the key skills needed to break into the UX field, and…
- Navigating product management and leadership – Career advice with Edward Scotcher
This week I’m joined by Edward Scotcher to talk about his role, which focuses on the intersection between product management and leadership. We talk through his career journey and discuss how being interesting can be more useful than havin…
- Why study computer science? | with the University of Liverpool Online
This week I chat to Dr Floriana Grasso from the University of Liverpool Online about the range of computer science programmes available. From AI and big data to cyber security, we discuss entry routes into these growing professions, the qu…
- Why study an Automotive MSc? | with the University of Bath
This week I'm joined by Dr Daniel Coren, senior lecturer for the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Bath to discuss their Automotive Masters courses. We chat about the history of cars, the future of the industry, and…
- How to build a career in the British Army: Insights from a troop commander
In today’s episode, we sit down with Lieutenant Sophie Farrelly RLC, who shares her journey from university student to commissioned Army Officer - all funded by the British Army’s bursary scheme. Sophie shares how she discovered the schola…
- Why do an online professional short course? | with the University of Essex Online
This week, we’re joined by deputy academic director Claire Ketnor from the University of Essex Online to explore their short professional courses - flexible, part time learning designed to fit around your life. Whether you want to upskill,…
- Why study the conservation of historic buildings? | with the University of Bath
This week we’re joined by Dr Jonathan Foyle from the University of Bath to discuss their Conservation of Historic Buildings MSc. We cover the difference between conservation and restoration, climate change and working towards a sustainable…
- What’s it really like to be an actor?
This week we speak to David McCulloch about the realities of being an actor. From writing your own material to sending off audition tapes, David gives his advice on how to deal with rejection, whether you need an agent, and much more. ⬇️ C…
- Breaking into sports broadcasting: From local radio to 5 Live
This week, Mike Sewell joins us to discuss his 30-year career as a sports broadcaster. From manager interviews at Fakenham Racecourse to covering football matches for BBC Radio 5 Live, he offers his advice for those looking to get into the…
- What is a scrum master?: How to get certified
This week I chat to Helen Garcia, who works as a scrum master. We discuss what the role is, how to get certified and what a typical day looks like. ⬇️ Connect with Helen LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helengarcia-agile/ Learn more a…
- How to become an editor: Advice for content writing
This week we’re joined by Darcy, an editor at Prospects. She shares her educational and professional journey so far and discusses how her autism and ADHD shape her experience in the workplace. She also offers practical advice for those pur…
- Why study academic practice? | with the University of Liverpool Online
In this episode, we chat with Dr Sue Bolt from the University of Liverpool about the online MA in Academic Practice. Sue explains what the course offers, who it’s for, and how it’s helping teachers build their careers. ⬇️ Connect with Dr S…
- How to become a social media manager: Building a career online
This week, Emily Sherwin, social media lead at Jisc, chats about how she went from art school and Waitrose cheese counters to leading social strategy. We discuss agency vs in-house life, going viral in the early days, and why you don’t nee…
- How to become a film critic: Real talk from an industry insider
In this episode, we sit down with acclaimed film critic Anna Smith as she shares her path into journalism and film criticism. From Minx to Cannes, Anna tells us about navigating a male-dominated industry, gives us a glimpse into her day-to…
- How to become an architect: Education, challenges and breaking in
This week, Tom Feary and Lea Grange, co-founders of Studio 163 Architects, join us to explore the realities of a career in architecture. From their unique educational journeys across Europe to launching their own practice in the wake of th…
- How to become a personal trainer: Attracting clients, setting boundaries and going freelance
In this week's episode, personal trainer Annie discusses the job's highs and lows, how you don't have to be a morning person to train others, and why boundaries are important. ⬇️ Connect with Annie: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/an…
- What's it like working in a prison?
In this episode, we speak to Katie Lawley, national prison drug and alcohol lead, to explore what working in HM Prison and Probation Service is like. After completing the Future Prison Leaders Programme Katie climbed the ranks, discover ho…
- Why study artificial intelligence? How to break into AI | with the University of Essex Online
In this episode, we chat with Sharon Sibanda, head of computing at the University of Essex Online, about the MSc Artificial Intelligence. Sharon shares how the course equips students from all backgrounds with the skills to thrive in the fa…
- How to become a professional photographer: Turning passion into profit
Photographer Beth Moseley shares her journey from training to be a chef to running her own successful photography business. She gives advice on pricing, mistakes, flexibility, and evolving creatively after 14 years in the industry. ⬇️ Conn…
- Becoming a financial journalist: Freelancing and social content creation
This week, I chat to Faith, a freelance personal finance journalist. She talks about her career journey from studying law to accidentally ending up at the Daily Telegraph and going freelance. She now writes for magazines, creates social me…
- How to become a life coach: Certifications, courses and making an impact
In this episode, we explore the role of a health and life coach with certified coach Tom. He shares insights on how life coaching differs from therapy, his journey from personal training to coaching, and the small, actionable changes that…
- My journey to The Apprentice: From Nando’s to nursing to entrepreneur | with Chisola Chitambala
From A-level setbacks to facing Lord Sugar in the boardroom, Chisola Chitambala, a 2025 candidate on BBC's The Apprentice, shares her journey of resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. She explains her best entrepreneurial tips, demystifies…
- Why study finance and investment management? | with the University of Liverpool Online
This week, Rob Stephens from the University of Liverpool dives deep into their MSc Finance and Investment Management programme. Discover how its Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) affiliation, interactive live sessions, and practical, real-…
- What does a freelance SEO consultant do? Inside the world of search engine optimisation
Join us as SEO consultant Matt Meazey breaks down the fundamentals of search engine optimisation (SEO). He recounts his journey from web design to SEO, delves into the role of AI in today's strategies, stresses the need for ongoing develop…
- A day in the life of a barrister: Get advice on joining the Bar
In this episode I chat to Jake Newell a self-employed barrister and member of East Anglian Chambers. Jake discusses the challenges of law school, the role of clerks, and the importance of networking in building a successful legal career. H…
- Why study arts, culture and the environment: Sustainability meets creativity | with The University of Manchester
This week we chat to Dr Kelechi Anucha from The University of Manchester about their MA Arts, Culture, and the Environment. We look at how the course equips students with green skills while providing opportunities to work within your local…
- Working in public relations: Discover the top skills you need
This week I chat to head of brand and partnerships, Amanda. She tells us the top four skills you need to succeed in the industry, and what a typical day looks like in the field ⬇️ Connect with Amanda on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in…
- What does a DevOps engineer do? Get tips on entering the industry
This week I chat with John, a DevOps engineer. We discuss what DevOps is, why you don't necessarily need a degree to enter the field, and how important AI is becoming within the industry. ⬇️ Connect with John on LinkedIn https://www.linked…
- What’s it like to be a firefighter? Take a look behind the scenes
In this episode we chat to both a wholetime and on-call firefighter. From the physical demands to the emotional challenges, we cover the realities of life as an emergency worker. Discover more about being a firefighter: https://www.prospec…
- Becoming a secondary school drama teacher: Learn about a typical day in the classroom
This week I chat with Kat Morris, a secondary school drama teacher. We talk about her journey into teaching, why she chose not to study for a PGCE and how she landed her job. Kat shares what makes her role so rewarding and takes us through…