The Thrive Careers Podcast
If you’re trying to get your career back on track or you’re doing okay but know you’re meant for more, this podcast is for you.
Maybe you’ve moved countries, changed fields, taken survival jobs, or just feel like your work life doesn’t fully reflect who you are. You’re not lazy or confused—you’re just ready for something better and more honest.
I get it, because that was me. My career wasn’t a straight line. It was a mix of pivots, tough seasons, and quiet moments where I thought, “There has to be more than this.” Things changed when I learned how to tell my story, show my value, and build a career that actually fit my life—not the other way around.
I’m Olajumoke “Ola” Fatoki—career coach, HR strategist, and advocate for newcomers, women, and quietly ambitious professionals who know they’re capable of more.
On Thrive Careers Podcast, we have real, down-to-earth conversations about work, not just job titles.
You’ll get:
- Practical job search and LinkedIn tips (with a simple, human way to use AI)
- Support for career changes, moving countries, promotions, and coming back after burnout or a break
- Honest talk about imposter syndrome, self-doubt, and finding your voice at work
- Simple frameworks to help you grow, earn more, and build a career that works in real life—not just on paper
You’ll hear from career experts, hiring managers, and real professionals who’ve had to pivot, start again, or stretch into their next level. Together, we break down the mindset shifts and practical steps you can apply in your own career.
🔔 New episodes every week.
Hit follow if you’re ready to stop just “managing” your career and start building one that finally feels like home.
The Thrive Careers Podcast
How to Break Into AI Without a Tech Background (A Real Career Pivot Story)
Tired of being told you’re ‘not technical enough’ for the job you want?
This episode is proof that your background doesn’t define your future—and you don’t need a tech degree to break into AI.
Meet Hephzber Ifunanya Obiorah, a former finance pro who transitioned into AI with no coding experience and no traditional tech training. Her story is raw, honest, and wildly empowering for anyone ready to stop waiting and start building a career that fits.
You’ll learn:
- 🔄 How to enter AI from a non-tech background
- 🧠 The beginner tools and skills she used to stand out
- 💡 Why confidence, not code, is your real advantage
👉 Press play to rethink what’s possible for your career—and take the leap, even if it scares you.
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to:
- Subscribe to the Thrive Careers Podcast for more actionable career tips and inspiring stories.
- Follow us on social media for daily career insights and updates:
- LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/olajumokefatoki
- Instagram: https://bit.ly/thrivecareershub
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thrive_careers_podcast
Let’s keep thriving together!
Host: Welcome back to the Thrive Careers Podcast. Today, I’m joined by Hephzibah Ifunanya Obiorah, a truly inspiring career switcher who transitioned from finance into AI without a tech degree. Her story is going to motivate anyone who's ever wondered if they could break into tech.
Hephzibah: Thank you so much for having me. I'm excited to be here.
Host: Let’s start at the beginning. What was your original career path?
Hephzibah: I actually studied English in university and started my career in finance. I worked in financial services for a few years but always felt like I was meant to do something different—more innovative and impactful.
Host: Interesting! So, how did you go from English and finance to AI?
Hephzibah: During the pandemic, I started exploring different paths. I came across data science and AI, and it sparked my curiosity. I didn’t have a tech background, but I started small—watching YouTube videos, taking free online courses, and just learning as much as I could.
Host: That’s incredible. Many listeners assume you need a computer science degree to even consider a move like that.
Hephzibah: That’s a big myth. What really matters is curiosity, consistency, and community. I joined communities for women in tech and started applying what I learned. That gave me confidence.
Host: Were there any particular tools or skills that helped you break in?
Hephzibah: Yes—learning Python was key. But also, prompt engineering and low-code platforms helped me create real projects without needing advanced programming skills.
Host: What was the biggest mindset shift you had to make?
Hephzibah: That I didn’t need to know everything to start. I used to think I had to be an expert first, but I learned that action creates clarity. Just start, and things fall into place.
Host: That’s such valuable advice. Where are you now in your AI journey?
Hephzibah: I’m currently working on AI-driven projects and helping other beginners get started. I believe representation matters, and I want to be that example for others—especially women and people from non-traditional backgrounds.
Host: Beautifully said. Any final words for someone listening who’s feeling stuck or unsure?
Hephzibah: Your background is not a barrier. If you’re willing to learn and stay consistent, there’s a place for you in tech. Start with what you have and build from there.
Host: Thank you, Hephzibah. Your journey is proof that transformation is possible when you’re brave enough to start. Until next time, keep thriving.