Épisodes

  • Why Your Next Career Breakthrough Requires Blank Space with Sabina Nawaz

    Why Your Next Career Breakthrough Requires Blank Space with Sabina Nawaz
    May 25 2025
    In this transformative final episode of the season, global CEO coach and author Sabina Nawaz shares her journey from Microsoft software engineer to executive leadership expert, offering practical strategies for career transitions and authentic leadership.
    Discover the power of "blank space" - intentional quiet time that can unlock career clarity and creative solutions. Sabina reveals how pressure can either corrupt your leadership or fuel innovation, and why many successful women fall into the "sole provider trap" that leads to burnout.

    Learn actionable techniques for managing workplace pressure, getting honest feedback as a leader, and staying authentic while meeting business needs. Whether you're considering a career pivot, struggling with leadership challenges, or seeking more fulfillment in your professional life, this episode provides concrete tools for transformation.
    Key topics include executive coaching strategies, women in leadership, career development, workplace authenticity, feedback culture, and finding purpose in your professional journey. Perfect for aspiring leaders, current managers, and anyone navigating career transitions in today's competitive workplace.

    Guest: Sabina Nawaz, author of "You're the Boss: Become the Manager You Want to Be and Others Need," former Microsoft executive, and faculty member at Northwestern and Drexel universities. https://sabinanawaz.com/

    Takeaways:
    Deciding to work at Microsoft was a pivotal moment.
    Quiet time can lead to significant insights.
    Pressure can corrupt leadership behavior.
    Finding joy in work is essential for fulfillment.
    Authenticity in leadership is multifaceted.
    Managing pressure is crucial for effective leadership.
    Successful transitions require self-awareness and assessment.
    Building a supportive network is vital for women in leadership.
    Feedback quality is determined by the questions asked.
    Success is about spending time wisely and fulfilling personal values.

    Chapters:
    00:00 The Importance of Blank Space
    03:43 Facing Fears and Embracing Quiet Time
    06:23 The Shift from Titles to Fulfillment
    09:09 Managing Pressure and Power Dynamics
    11:07 Authenticity in Leadership
    13:59 Women in Leadership: Balancing Roles and Values
    18:11 Navigating Authenticity in Leadership
    19:21 Understanding Productive vs. Harmful Pressure
    24:43 Career Transitions: Finding Fulfillment
    28:11 Building Supportive Networks in Leadership
    32:25 Common Leadership Pitfalls
    33:59 Defining Personal Success
    35:12 Transformative Feedback and Growth
    39:17 Introduction to Transformation and Change
    40:15 Insights from a Leadership Expert
    41:32 Anticipating a Powerful Conversation
    41:53 Introduction to the Influencer's Impact
    41:54 Exploring the Reach of Articles
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    46 min
  • From Content Creator to Corporate_Moving Abroad and Back with Paige Mariah

    From Content Creator to Corporate_Moving Abroad and Back with Paige Mariah
    May 18 2025
    This week I'm chatting with Paige Mariah about her transformative career journey. Paige shares her experience moving from Chicago to London for grad school, building a successful career as a full-time content creator abroad, and her recent transition back to corporate America working for Kellogg. She discusses overcoming imposter syndrome, embracing change despite fear, and finding work-life balance after experiencing the freedom of self-employment. This conversation explores the reality behind social media's highlight reel, the importance of patience during major life transitions, and the empowering message that it's okay to pivot your career at any age. Paige's authentic perspective offers valuable insights on finding your path and honoring what's best for you at different stages of life.

    Paige's YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@PaigeMariah

    Chapters:
    00:00 Introduction and Background
    01:19 Transitioning to Another Country
    04:41 Returning to the United States
    06:13 Dealing with Social Perception
    09:07 The Importance of Patience
    13:30 Self-Work and Personal Growth
    19:00 Transitioning to Corporate
    19:56 Transitioning to a Corporate Job
    22:05 Dealing with Imposter Syndrome
    23:22 The Value of Working with a Team
    25:18 Balancing Work and Life
    28:53 Talking About Money with Friends
    32:31 Returning to a 9-to-5 Job After Being Self-Employed
    33:24 Pivoting and Changing in Your Career

    Takeaways
    • Embracing change can lead to personal growth and new opportunities.
    • It's important to block out the noise of others' opinions and focus on your own goals and desires.
    • Comparing yourself to others online can be detrimental to your own journey.
    • Patience is crucial when navigating transitions and building a stable foundation.
    • Self-work, such as therapy and journaling, can help in personal growth and adapting to change.
    • Humans are adaptable by nature and can find new solutions and paths in life.
    • Transitioning from a non-traditional career to corporate can be challenging, but with time and adjustment, it can lead to stability and growth. Transitioning to a new job, especially in a different industry, can be challenging and overwhelming, but it's important to remind yourself of your value and the unique perspective you bring.
    • Imposter syndrome is common, but it's crucial to remember that you were chosen for your role for a reason. Show yourself grace and trust in your abilities.
    • Working with a team and having a manager can provide mentorship, support, and opportunities for growth that may not be available when working for yourself.
    • Finding a balance between work and life is essential. Speak up for yourself and set boundaries to prioritize your well-being.
    • Having open conversations about money with friends can provide valuable insights and help you advocate for fair compensation.
    • Returning to a 9-to-5 job after being self-employed is a valid choice. It's important to do what's best for you at any given moment and not be influenced by societal expectations.
    • It's okay to pivot and change in your career, regardless of your age. Your needs and desires may evolve over time, and it's important to prioritize your own growth and happiness.
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    29 min
  • Vanessa Simmons on Wellness, Self-Care, and Businesses Evolution After Pastry

    Vanessa Simmons on Wellness, Self-Care, and Businesses Evolution After Pastry
    May 11 2025
    This week I'm chatting with entrepreneur, actress, and wellness advocate Vanessa Simmons. Known for her role on Run's House and co-founding the successful footwear brand Pastry, Vanessa opens up about her entrepreneurial journey, sharing valuable insights on knowing when to pivot in business and the importance of mental health awareness.

    In this episode, Vanessa discusses her new wellness platform U4IA, an educational hub focused on fact-based beauty tips and mental health resources. She reveals how her father Rev Run's self-care practices influenced her own wellness philosophy, and shares practical advice on breaking the cycle of hustle culture through intentional breathing, journaling, and rest.

    Discover how motherhood has deepened her self-awareness and shaped her leadership style, while learning actionable strategies for handling rejection and transforming perceived failures into valuable lessons. Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to make your next business move, someone interested in wellness practices, or simply a fan of Vanessa's journey, this conversation offers authentic wisdom on balancing ambition with self-compassion in both business and life. #VanessaSimmons #Entrepreneurship #WellnessJourney #MentalHealthAwareness #BusinessPivot #SelfCare

    Learn more about U4IA - https://www.instagram.com/u4ianow

    Watch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/MDX7--NxeDs

    Takeaways:
    • Pastry was the first business venture for Vanessa and her sister.
    • Deciding to walk away from a business can be difficult but necessary.
    • It's important to take breaks to refresh and gain new perspectives.
    • Vetting new business ideas should be based on passion and impact.
    • Mental health and self-care are crucial in today's world.
    • Breathing exercises can significantly reduce stress.
    • Self-awareness is key in both personal and professional life.
    • Failure should be viewed as a lesson rather than a setback.
    • Motherhood has deepened Vanessa's self-awareness and patience.
    • Leadership involves accountability and original thought.
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    25 min
  • Interviewing Oprah Via Bold Pivots - Dominique B. Fluker on Switching Careers, J-School, and Building her brand

    Interviewing Oprah Via Bold Pivots - Dominique B. Fluker on Switching Careers, J-School, and Building her brand
    May 4 2025
    In this inspiring conversation, I reconnect with a longtime friend of the podcast, Dominique B. Fluker, whose journey I've witnessed from PR agency copywriter to nationally recognized multimedia journalist and contributing lifestyle editor at Essence Magazine. Dominique shares the pivotal moments that shaped her bold career transitions—from quitting TikTok and moving to LA without a job or graduate school acceptance, to walking red carpets and interviewing celebrities like Oprah. With raw honesty, she discusses overcoming personal tragedy, using intuition to guide professional decisions, and balancing ambition with meaningful relationships. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone considering a career change, building their personal brand, or seeking work-life balance. Dominique's story proves that with tenacity, faith, and strategic networking, you can create the fabulous life you deserve without regrets.

    Dominique's website - https://dominiquebfluker.com/

    Takeaways:
    Dominique emphasizes the importance of stepping up in challenging situations.
    Her experiences with loss have solidified her confidence and resilience.
    She created her own opportunities through blogging and networking.
    Dominique's journey reflects the significance of authenticity in one's career.
    She believes in the power of intuition when making life decisions.
    Dominique highlights the importance of cherishing milestones and achievements.
    She prepares for interviews by researching and connecting emotionally with her subjects.
    Dominique acknowledges the struggle of balancing ambition with personal fulfillment.
    She defines success as a combination of personal and professional achievements.
    Dominique stresses that hard work is essential, regardless of appearances.


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    44 min
  • Navigating Your Career Path with Whitney Faires - Authenticity, Leadership, and The Excellence Equation

    Navigating Your Career Path with Whitney Faires - Authenticity, Leadership, and The Excellence Equation
    Apr 27 2025
    Chatting with Whitney Faires, an executive coach with over two decades of corporate experience. Tune in to hear invaluable insights on leadership, overcoming self-doubt, and thriving in your professional journey. Whitney shares her journey from corporate sales to executive coaching, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and intentional career moves. She delves into her creation, the Excellence Equation, an eight-step framework designed to help professionals achieve big goals despite uncertainty. Whitney also discusses key tips for finding the right coach, the importance of aligning personal and professional values, and how to take ownership of your career development.


    00:00 Welcome to the Switch, Pivot, or Quit Podcast
    00:36 Introducing Whitney Faires: Executive Coach
    01:09 Whitney's Journey: From Corporate to Coaching
    02:09 Navigating Career Pivots and Internal Moves
    06:21 The Importance of Finding the Right Coach
    08:17 Overcoming Underestimation and Proving Yourself
    10:36 Handling Pressure and Trusting the Process
    13:32 The Excellence Equation: A Framework for Success
    17:19 Defining Leadership and Core Principles
    19:40 Defining Leadership Identity
    20:30 Exploring People Leadership Roles
    21:34 Navigating Company Culture
    23:02 Making Career Moves
    25:18 Developing Your Own Playbook
    29:13 Embracing Authenticity
    31:54 Evolving View of Success
    34:22 Taking Ownership of Your Career
    35:21 Conclusion and Contact Information
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    36 min
  • You Can't Skip the Process

    You Can't Skip the Process
    Apr 20 2025
    It's tempting to want to find a way around the work or potential struggle, but the process often offers more than we know we need.
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    9 min
  • Mastering Self-Leadership & Career Growth with Elizabeth Lotardo

    Mastering Self-Leadership & Career Growth with Elizabeth Lotardo
    Apr 13 2025
    This week the conversation touches on the importance of self-leadership, managing difficult conversations with your manager, and staying fulfilled at work amidst uncertainty. Elizabeth Lotardo offers actionable advice on upskilling, finding purpose in your current role, and maintaining meaningful workplace relationships. The episode also delves into the challenges and strategies of leading without formal authority and managing career burnout. This insightful discussion is packed with practical tips for anyone navigating personal and professional transitions.

    Book - https://www.elizabethlotardo.com/writing

    Takeaways
    • Self-leadership is crucial in today's evolving work environment.
    • The pandemic has shifted how we view job security and fulfillment.
    • Finding purpose in your current role can enhance job satisfaction.
    • Building relationships at work is essential for a positive experience.
    • Upskilling is a proactive way to manage career uncertainty.
    • Navigating career transitions requires careful consideration of personal motivations.
    • Community support can significantly impact professional growth.
    • AI is a tool that can enhance productivity, not replace jobs.
    • Managing burnout involves setting clear priorities and boundaries.
    • Self-leadership is an ongoing process, not a destination.

    Chapters:
    00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview
    01:06 Inspiration Behind 'Leading Yourself'
    02:37 Workforce Changes and Emotional Shifts
    04:58 Navigating Career Uncertainty
    08:09 Finding Purpose and Building Relationships at Work
    15:20 Promoting 'Leading Yourself' and Embracing AI
    19:10 LinkedIn Learning Journey
    22:36 Creating Impactful Courses
    23:21 Navigating LinkedIn Learning
    26:43 Promoting Your Courses
    27:31 Finding Fulfillment in Your Career
    29:18 Leading Yourself to Success
    36:22 Managing Burnout and Prioritization
    39:22 Risks of Self-Leadership
    40:45 Final Thoughts and Resources
    42:53 Outro and Personal Reflections
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    39 min
  • The Giving/Receiving Imbalance - When You're Always the Resource

    The Giving/Receiving Imbalance - When You're Always the Resource
    Apr 6 2025
    This week I'm sharing observations about the challenges of the one-sided nature of giving. I share my frustrations and the hidden labor that goes unnoticed. We'll explore how setting boundaries and rephrasing requests can ensure mutual benefits. Plus, I’m stirring up some self-reflection on our giving-and-taking dynamics. Tune in to hear my thoughts, stories, and tips on fostering respectful and reciprocal professional relationships. Let's make those connections real and valuable!

    Timecodes:
    00:00 Introduction and Host's Background
    00:40 The Emotional Labor of Giving
    02:37 Challenges of Podcast Guest Requests
    03:40 The Importance of Reciprocity
    08:14 Setting Boundaries and Expectations
    21:27 Crafting Effective Communication
    24:32 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
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    27 min