Robyn Sotolov 9/9/26 Robyn Sotolov 9/9/26

Philanthropy and Foundations Field Guide: Insights from Heather Haines

Breaking into philanthropy and foundations can feel anything but straightforward. Drawing on insights from Heather Haines, this field guide explores what government professionals need to know about navigating the sector, from transferable skills and hiring trends to networking, partnerships, and finding roles that aren’t always easy to spot.

Robyn Sotolov 7/21/26 Robyn Sotolov 7/21/26

Privacy in Tech Field Guide: Insights from Joyce Chen

I recently sat down with former Chief Privacy Officer Joyce Chen to demystify how privacy operates in modern tech. From the rapid rise of AI governance to effectively translating public sector skills for private sector success, discover how to navigate and break into this rapidly evolving field.

Robyn Sotolov 6/16/26 Robyn Sotolov 6/16/26

Tech Policy Field Guide: Insights from Chelsea Magnant

I recently sat down with Chelsea Magnant - Vice President at Breakwater Strategy and former CIA analyst and Google policy lead - to demystify how tech policy works in the private sector. From understanding the difference between public and product policy to translating government experience and pitch-perfecting your search, discover how to position your skills for high-impact tech policy roles.

Robyn Sotolov 5/15/26 Robyn Sotolov 5/15/26

Corporate Security Field Guide: Insights from Erin Thomas

Transitioning from government to corporate security? Learn how to translate your federal skills into business value with insights from a federal alum and leader in this field.

Robyn Sotolov 4/14/26 Robyn Sotolov 4/14/26

Navigating the Boutique Consulting Pivot: A Perspective from the Inside

I recently sat down with Meaghan Dolan from Eagle Hill Consulting to discuss a path many mission-driven leaders consider but few fully understand: boutique consulting. Discover how to shift your mindset from government stewardship to creative problem-solving, translate your public sector experience, and navigate the practical realities of boutique firm culture.

Robyn Sotolov 3/25/26 Robyn Sotolov 3/25/26

Demystifying Trust & Safety Roles

Trust & Safety (T&S) is a natural fit for government professionals looking to continue protecting others in the private sector. In this guide, we break down the tech industry's core T&S functions - from threat intelligence and policy to product and compliance - and outline the specific technical skills you need to land them.

Robyn Sotolov 12/8/25 Robyn Sotolov 12/8/25

Three Years of Reinvention: Lessons I Took from Leaving the CIA for Tech and Coaching, & DC for San Francisco

Three years ago, I walked out of the CIA after 15 years in government to move across the country and rebuild my life in tech and executive coaching. From navigating Tesla and OpenAI to building a coaching practice and making San Francisco home, here are five hard-won lessons on navigating career and life transitions with grace and intention.

Robyn Sotolov 10/7/25 Robyn Sotolov 10/7/25

Quick Resume Checklist

Before sending out your next job application, run your resume through this quick 3-point checklist. Learn how simple tweaks to impact, keyword alignment, and formatting can make the difference between being overlooked and landing an interview.

Robyn Sotolov 9/16/25 Robyn Sotolov 9/16/25

From Service to Strategy: Translating Your Skills for the Private Sector

You bring a wealth of transferable skills from your government service, but translating them for a corporate audience can be challenging. In this guide, we break down how to map your background in intelligence, diplomacy, tech, and operations into high-value private sector roles.

Robyn Sotolov 9/11/25 Robyn Sotolov 9/11/25

Identity Beyond the Badge: My Last Day at the CIA

I cried on my last day at the CIA. Leaving was my choice, but handing in my badge meant leaving behind an identity I had wrapped myself in for years. Here is what I have learned since about untangling our self-worth from our work, avoiding burnout, and remembering that your job is what you do, not who you are.

Robyn Sotolov 9/2/25 Robyn Sotolov 9/2/25

Want to Get Ahead? Focus on the People, Not Just the Work

Want to get ahead in your career? It takes more than just hard work and strategy - it takes intentional connection. Learn why focusing on the people around you, leading with empathy, and remembering the little things are the true keys to building a reputation that speaks for itself.

Robyn Sotolov 8/8/25 Robyn Sotolov 8/8/25

The Networking Barrier: Why It’s Easier to Give Help Than to Ask for It

Why is it so much easier to offer help than to ask for it? When you are job searching, reaching out to your network can feel vulnerable and awkward. Discover how to reframe your mindset around networking - from feeling like a "burden" to creating an opportunity for genuine connection - so you can confidently land your next role.

Robyn Sotolov 7/18/25 Robyn Sotolov 7/18/25

Asking For Help is Hard! Here’s Some Practical Advice for Formulating Your Ask

Asking for help is hard, but in today's tough job market, it's an essential skill. If you aren't getting traction on your networking messages, you might be missing a crucial step. Learn how to approach outreach with empathy and use this 5-step framework to formulate a clear, actionable ask that makes it easy for people to say yes.