Balancing ambition podcasts: finding success without a straight line | Ep. 1 By Harry RogersBalancing ambition podcasts 2 Jul 2026 Launching on 8 July, our first ever Balancing ambition podcasts focus on “squiggly” careers which don’t follow the linear ‘join a company and rise through the ranks’ progression. Our monthly podcasts are here to help you grow and succeed in your career, wherever you are on your journey. Whether you’re taking your first steps, exploring new opportunities, or looking for a healthier work-life balance, you’ll find support, inspiration and practical insights. Each episode features honest conversations with people from across the AAT community and beyond, sharing their experiences, challenges and advice to help you take the next step with confidence. Balancing ambition for members Hear from industry experts and inspiring professionals as they share practical advice, fresh perspectives and experiences to help support your career development. A move away from traditional life stages and career paths mean it’s increasingly likely people have “squiggly” careers which don’t follow the linear ‘join a company and rise through the ranks’ progression. Our guests explore why this is happening, what advantages and challenges it brings and how to make the most of a squiggly career. Balancing ambition for students The same great guests and insights, tailored for those studying AAT qualifications and starting out in their finance careers, with practical study tips, real-world advice and inspiration for the journey ahead. Students feeling the pressure to have it all figured out before they’ve finished their qualification can take inspiration from the squiggly careers of some true AAT success stories. Plus, get top tips for exam prep and valuable advice to help navigate your learning journey. More ways to enjoy Balancing ambition Explore the topics we’ll be covering in episode 1 through the below content, including downloadable resources and more insight: Career planning: Explore what you want from your ideal role Real growth stories from across the accounting profession Do you have a squiggly career? See what skills you’ve picked up on the way Download to map out your key skills and experience Our squiggly career map is designed to help you keep track of your experiences, identify your strengths, record your achievements, and better understand the transferable skills you’ve developed throughout your unique career journey. Download your squiggly career map Subscribe to Balancing ambition You can subscribe to Balancing ambition on your preferred platform via the links below: Members:Apple podcastsSpotifyAmazon Students:Apple podcastsSpotifyAmazon Career planning: Explore what you want from your ideal role Our career tracker is designed to help you explore what you’re good at and what you want from a job. It’s the perfect tool to help you to think honestly about your ideal working environment and what success looks like for you. Download your career tracker Other resources to help you achieve your ambitions Interested in starting your own business? Explore Informi’s range of expert guides, templates and practical resources to support every stage of your start-up and small business journey Ready to find a role you’ll love? Visit AAT’s Careers Hub for expert advice, career inspiration, and opportunities to help you find your dream role. Take a sneak peek behind the cameras to see what happened during the first ever recording of our new Balancing ambition podcasts. Click here to go behind the scenes. Harry Rogers is AAT Comment’s news writer.