Wayne R.

Wayne R.

5.0

The Career Cantina Logo

Works at The Career Cantina

Available Thursday at 12:00 AM UTC

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About Wayne

I grew up thinking I’d be a journalist. I studied mass communications and wrote for my college paper, always drawn to the power of a well-told story. But like many people, my career took a different path. A temp job led to a recruiting role, and that opened the door to a 30-year career in HR. Since then, I’ve worked across the spectrum of company stages, from early startups where I was the second person hired to multinational giants in healthcare and life sciences like Siemens, Roche, and Abbott. That range gave me a deep understanding of how organizations grow, how hiring decisions are made, and how the job search process really works behind the scenes. What has stayed consistent throughout is my curiosity. I have always enjoyed learning how people build their careers and how systems evolve. That curiosity eventually led me to coaching. I get a lot of satisfaction from helping others navigate change, regain momentum, and make informed, confident career moves. More recently, I found my way back to writing. I created The Career Cantina as a space to share job search strategies, practical tips, and a bit of humor to make the process feel more human. It’s what I call edutainment: content that’s equal parts useful and fun to read. When I’m not coaching or writing, you’ll usually find me behind a camera, tinkering with the latest tech tool, or rewatching classic sci-fi for the hundredth time. I share my home office with two cats who believe they are executive-level consultants and one very patient wife who pretends not to notice when I start talking to ChatGPT like it’s a coworker. Occasionally, I’ll pause mid-task to debate which Star Wars trilogy had the best lightsaber duel. Spoiler: it’s not even close.

Why do I coach?

After more than 30 years in HR and recruiting, spanning small startups to global biotech companies, I’ve come to believe that a great job search isn’t about luck. It’s about strategy. Throughout my career, I’ve coached hundreds of professionals at every level: new grads breaking into competitive fields, mid-career changers navigating layoffs, and senior leaders exploring their next chapter. The common thread? Most people don’t need a pep talk. They need a plan. That’s why I built a framework I call R.I.S.E., which helps job seekers focus on four pillars: Research, Implementation, Simulation, and Engagement. It provides a clear and structured path through today’s hiring landscape, which has never been more complex or more automated. A key part of my coaching focuses on helping clients use AI tools like ChatGPT to gain an edge. Whether it’s researching industries, refining resumes, preparing for interviews, or optimizing professional visibility, I show people how to make these tools work for them without losing their voice in the process. If you are looking for a coach who combines practical insight with a deep understanding of hiring systems and emerging AI tools, I would be glad to partner with you. I won’t promise magic. But I will help you create a game plan that works.

Work Experience

The Career Cantina Logo

Founder

The Career Cantina

October 2024 - Present

- Created The Career Cantina, an AI powered podcast and content platform providing job seekers with practical job search strategies. - Developed the RISE Framework (Research, Implementation, Simulation, Engagement) to guide job seekers through a structured, strategic job search process. - Educate audiences on leveraging AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT) for resume writing, interview preparation, and networking. - Produce high-impact career content, including podcasts, articles, and presentations, aimed at demystifying hiring trends and the evolving job market. - Engage with industry professionals, hiring managers, and recruiters to provide real-world insights and actionable advice for job seekers.

Self Employed Logo

Estate Manager

Self Employed

June 2021 - Present

- Perform direct property management, including tenant relations, handling repairs, and coordinating maintenance - Manage and maintain residential rentals and agricultural properties across multiple states - Oversee vendor and contractor relationships, ensuring timely and efficient property upkeep - Negotiate and approve contracts for services, repairs, and property improvements - Ensure compliance with state regulations for all properties, managing leases and legal requirements - Identify and select property management resources, optimizing performance and long-term value - Continuously assess property portfolio to maximize asset value and sustainability

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Board Member

Phase2Careers

January 2022 - September 2024

As part of a dynamic non-profit organization, wearing multiple hats is not just a requirement, but a privilege. Each role I undertake is driven by a shared mission: to assist workers over 40 in finding their next role, transitioning to new opportunities, and providing meaningful support. I am proud and honored to contribute to their journey. - Share Expert Insights: Regularly featured as a speaker and panelist, offering practical job market navigation knowledge. - Strategic Collaboration: Work closely with the founder to enhance the organization's brand and outreach. - Drive Business Development: Actively seek grants, sponsorships, and donations to support growth and initiatives. - Social Media Leadership: Developing strategies and tools for increased mission awareness. Have written several articles and produced several videos that cover various related job search topics. - Innovative Tool Development: Created 'Interview Coach for Research Scientists', an AI-driven chatbot powered by OpenAI ChatGPT, to guide research scientists in interview preparation and career transitions. - Event Revamp Expertise: Reimagined 'Careers in Life Sciences' event into 'High-Tech to Bio-Tech', highlighting key transferable skills for the biotech industry.

Shifamed Logo

Staffing Manager

Shifamed

July 2022 - February 2023

Managed the talent acquisition process for the portfolio companies under the Shifamed Innovation Hub.

Nautilus Biotechnology Logo

People Operations

Nautilus Biotechnology

May 2019 - May 2021

Hired by the founders to lead the talent acquisition process which later grew to include broader activities including HR.

10 Reviews

Overall Rating

5.0


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Wayne R.

Wayne R.

5.0

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