Feeling truly empowered at work can change your life, says Emily Durham.
“For most of us, our job isn’t just a job — it’s where we spend the majority of our time, where our identity is shaped, and where so much of our confidence either grows or shrinks,” says Durham. “Helping someone land a new role, ask for a raise, or even just feel less alone navigating workplace politics? That’s the best feeling in the world.”
Durham worked as a recruiter for years, where she witnessed firsthand how access to career education and mentorship directly impacted interview results, promotion rates and salary — and how a lack of support disproportionately affected women and under-represented groups. She wanted to talk about it.
In 2020, Durham launched “The Straight Shooter Recruiter” podcast, then started making career guidance videos, which quickly went viral. “When I think about my purpose online, it’s really to empower people in their careers and democratize access to the kind of information that’s so often gatekept,” she says. “My goal is to help people feel confident, satisfied, and — above all — get paid.”
Achieving success in the crowded social world also allowed Durham to make one of her cherished childhood dreams come true: her first book, a career guide for Gen Z women entitled “Worked Up: No-BS Advice on Getting Ahead in Your Career (Without Losing Your Mind),” comes out next year.
We asked Emily about her favourite spots and hidden gems in the city
What’syour favourite Toronto restaurant?
Hands down, Favorite’s Thai BBQ (141 Ossington Ave.). You have to do the chef’s tasting menu or you’re living wrong. It is my favourite spot in the entire city.
What’s your favourite café and what do you order?
Daily Dose (125 John St.). I get an iced Americano, splash of almond milk. The trick: two pumps of their marshmallow syrup.
What’s your favourite store?
Without a doubt, my favourite spot in the city is On Third Thought (6 Markham St.). They’re a locally owned gelato bar, but not only is their gelato dairy-free, they also do wine and gelato pairings.
Favourite hidden gem
Accent and Co. (8 Spadina Ave.) in the Well – am I on the Well’s payroll? – it’s a shop that (curates products) from locally owned businesses. It’s a perfect spot to pick up a little something for yourself or a loved one.
Where do you find inspiration?
Walking the streets of West Queen West – you’re surrounded by people with incredible and unique fashion sense.
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