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In this episode, Aaron Makelky, Dan Yu, and John Lovig cover how to navigate layoffs, whether you're watching them happen around you or going through one yourself.
Dan shares the numbers: over 1.1 million layoffs in 2025, a 54% jump year-over-year, making it the worst since COVID and the 2008 financial crisis. Tech, telecom, retail, airlines, and food service have all been hit. Amazon, Verizon, IBM, Starbucks, Meta, Microsoft, and UPS have made cuts, and seasonal hiring is down by about half compared to previous years.
The hosts offer practical advice for those seeing colleagues get let go. Dan recommends downloading your contacts, performance reviews, and any kudos emails while you still have access. These documents become critical when job searching. John emphasizes starting to network before you need to: coffee chats, reaching out to recruiters, or posting content on LinkedIn. Aaron's mental test: ask yourself what you'd wish you were doing right now if it had been you on that list.
John introduces the concept of "layoff fatigue"—the psychological and emotional toll of either enduring a prolonged job search or surviving multiple rounds of cuts at your company. The hosts discuss how this fatigue shows up in interviews (recruiters can spot cynicism immediately) and offer strategies for combating it, including finding joy outside of work, getting accountability partners, and maintaining perspective on what's actually within your control.
The episode wraps with a discussion on outplacement services—what they actually provide, the right questions to ask, and how to maximize their value, including the tip to pause services during slow hiring periods like the holidays.
For more resources, visit futureproof-yu.com.
Timestamps
0:00 – Intro
0:49 – The state of the 2025 job market: 1.1 million layoffs, 54% year-over-year increase
2:08 – Which job market numbers to trust (government data vs. ADP reports)
3:10 – Industries hit hardest: tech, telecom, retail, airlines, federal government
4:29 – Seasonal hiring down by half—what it signals about consumer spending
5:10 – What to do when you see colleagues get laid off
5:59 – Download your contacts, performance reviews, and KPIs while you can
7:32 – Start networking before you need to
9:25 – The difference between a transactional reach-out and a genuine one
11:10 – Dan's story: calling a laid-off client every few weeks for 18 months
13:02 – Take your laid-off boss out for a drink
13:51 – Update your LinkedIn profile during any company change
14:59 – Keep a file of thank-you notes for tough days
15:51 – What is "layoff fatigue"?
17:30 – Finding joy outside of work to reduce stress
18:33 – Layoff buddies: accountability partners for your job search
19:35 – Start a corporate alumni networking group on LinkedIn
20:28 – Can recruiters spot layoff fatigue in interviews? (Yes, immediately)
22:30 – "Bitter, angry, sad, and despondent is not sexy"
24:00 – Separating your identity from job search outcomes
25:40 – Locus of control: what you can and can't hold yourself accountable for
27:26 – Increasing your surface area for good things to happen
27:49 – Give LinkedIn recommendations as "lotto tickets with extra juice"
29:00 – Outplacement services: what they actually do (and don't do)
31:17 – Questions to ask about outplacement: success rates, coaching, databases
32:22 – Tip: pause outplacement services during slow hiring periods
32:35 – Outro and wrap-up
We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.
IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:
Simplify and streamline technology
Save teachers’ time
Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
Improve student performance on state assessments
🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
Join recruiters Dan Yu and John Lovig as they share insights from the trenches on Q4 2025 hiring trends, AI's impact on recruitment, and essential strategies for job seekers navigating today's market.
Timestamps & Topics
[0:00] Introduction & Q4 Hiring Trends Overview
Aaron introduces the episode topic and the team discusses what's happening in Q4 hiring across the market.
[0:36] AI's Impact on Hiring
[2:13] Seasonal Hiring Patterns & Budget Spending
[4:25] Job Hugging Trend Explained
[6:00] LinkedIn Profile Optimization for AI Search
[8:00] Agentic AI in LinkedIn Recruiting
[9:39] Keyword Strategy for Visibility
[10:01] Using Pinned Posts Effectively
[11:11] LinkedIn Profile Knockout Mistakes
[13:10] Closing & Course Information
Key Takeaways
Resources Mentioned
Connect with the Hosts
Find Dan Yu, John Lovig, and Aaron Makelky on LinkedIn to learn more about hiring trends and career optimization strategies.
We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.
IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:
Simplify and streamline technology
Save teachers’ time
Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
Improve student performance on state assessments
🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
Terri Dien went from White House Press Office to campaign wins to culinary school at 30-something, then stacked skills across restaurants, teaching, corporate dining, four cookbooks, and now voiceover. We cover: how to test and iterate, translate strengths into new lanes, use networks instead of blind applying, design better learning with simple takeaways, and why failing in public is often the fastest teacher. Speed round at the end (Zuni roast chicken fans, unite).
Check out futureproof-you.com for free resources to help you take control of your career today!
We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.
IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:
Simplify and streamline technology
Save teachers’ time
Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
Improve student performance on state assessments
🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
FutureProof You Podcast — EP 18: “Seasons of Hiring”
One‑liner
When should a job seeker push hard versus play the long game? Aaron Makelky, John Lovig, and Dan Yu map the hiring year—late summer slowdown, Q4 surge, bonus-season churn, and spring steadiness—and give a practical playbook for each.
TL;DR Takeaways
Chapter Guide
The Seasonal Playbook
Late Summer (now → early September)
Fall/Q4 (late September → mid‑December)
Year‑End/Bonus Season (late Dec → Q1)
Q1/Q2 (Jan → May)
Social Proof & Profile Moves
Power Lines to Steal
Hosts
Aaron Makelky - John Lovig - Dan Yu
Call to Action
We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.
IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:
Simplify and streamline technology
Save teachers’ time
Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
Improve student performance on state assessments
🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
Adapting to the AI-First Era: Trends, Tools, and Strategies
Check out the Futureproof-You website for more resources, courses, and our free guide: 5 Tips to Improve Your LinkedIn Profile
In this episode of Future Proof You podcast, hosted by Dan Yu, John Lovig, and Aaron Makelky, the focus is on the growing impact of AI in the business world. The hosts discuss the transition from AI experimentation to an 'AI-first' strategy, emphasizing the importance of integrating AI deeply into business processes. They share insights on the evolving job market, particularly the demand for AI fluency and emotional intelligence. Specific examples from marketing and job roles highlight the rapid adoption of AI. The hosts also talk about their favorite AI tools and upcoming workshops designed to help individuals and companies embrace an AI-first mindset.
00:00 Introduction to the Future Proof Use Podcast
00:43 Understanding the AI Transition
02:14 Real-World Examples of AI Integration
05:13 The Importance of AI Fluency in Hiring
10:31 Tools and Trends in AI
16:55 Final Thoughts and Resources
Don't forget to check out the Futureproof-You website for more resources, courses, and our free download: 5 Tips to Improve Your LinkedIn Profile
We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.
IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:
Simplify and streamline technology
Save teachers’ time
Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
Improve student performance on state assessments
🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
Debunking Job Search Myths: Insights from Recruiters
Check out the Futureproof-You website for more resources, courses, and our free resource: 5 Tips to Improve Your LinkedIn Profile
In this episode of the Future Proof You podcast, hosts Aaron Makelky, Dan Yu, and John Lovig demystify common myths in the job search process. They address six myths: AI in applicant tracking systems causing quick rejections, the effectiveness of the Easy Apply button on LinkedIn, the importance of quantity over quality in applications, identifying ghost jobs, ageism affecting job opportunities, and the value of proactive networking. The hosts share insights from their recruiting experience and offer practical advice on how to navigate the job market effectively.
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
01:13 Myth 1: AI in Applicant Tracking Systems
04:27 Myth 2: The Easy Apply Button on LinkedIn
07:07 Myth 3: Quantity Over Quality in Applications
10:47 Myth 4: Identifying Ghost Jobs
14:45 Myth 5: Ageism in the Job Market
19:16 Myth 6: The Importance of Networking
25:21 Conclusion and Resources
Check out the Futureproof-You website for more resources, courses, and our free resource: 5 Tips to Improve Your LinkedIn Profile
We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.
IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:
Simplify and streamline technology
Save teachers’ time
Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
Improve student performance on state assessments
🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
Exploring Emerging Jobs and AI's Role in the Future Workforce
Check out the Futureproof-You website for more resources, courses, and our free resource: 5 Tips to Improve Your LinkedIn Profile
In this episode of the Future-Proof You podcast, hosts Dan Yu, Aaron Makelky, and John Lovig discuss the emergence of new job titles, such as Chief Automation Officer, and their implications in today's job market. They explore how AI advancements are creating roles like Generative AI Associates, the ethical concerns surrounding AI-generated content, and its potential to replace entry-level jobs. The conversation highlights the importance of personal branding, creating content on LinkedIn, and leveraging AI to enhance job security. The episode concludes with practical advice on navigating career changes and utilizing AI tools effectively. Upcoming events and resources offered by Future-Proof You are also featured.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:20 Emerging Job Titles in AI
01:13 Automation and Business Operations
02:31 Generative AI Roles
04:28 Ethics and Implications of AI
06:26 AI in the Medical Field
07:17 Vibe Coding and Marketing
09:00 AI Content Creation and IP Issues
19:37 Personal Branding and Networking
27:19 Conclusion and Community Invitation
Check out the Futureproof-You website for more resources, courses, and our free resource: 5 Tips to Improve Your LinkedIn Profile
We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.
IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:
Simplify and streamline technology
Save teachers’ time
Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
Improve student performance on state assessments
🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
Navigating Economic Uncertainty and AI's Impact on Job Market
Check out the Futureproof-You website for more resources, courses, and our free resource: 5 Tips to Improve Your LinkedIn Profile
In this episode of the Future-Proof You podcast, hosts discuss the current state of the economy and its implications for job seekers and companies. They delve into recent news, including the shrinking GDP, decreased consumer spending, and the impact on major corporations like Amazon and UPS. The conversation shifts to the role of AI in hiring and its potential to replace certain jobs, emphasizing the importance of human relationships and networking. They also highlight the AI-first mentality in companies and how it affects recruitment and job search strategies. The episode concludes with practical advice for job seekers, the importance of diversifying skills, and upcoming classes and community events offered by Future-Proof You.
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:19 Economic News and GDP Discussion
01:54 Consumer Spending and Corporate Reactions
03:22 Impact on Job Market and Hiring Trends
05:39 AI's Role in the Workforce
12:59 Future of Recruiting and Candidate Experience
20:39 Practical Advice for Job Seekers
21:04 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts
Check out the Futureproof-You website for more resources, courses, and our free resource: 5 Tips to Improve Your LinkedIn Profile
We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.
IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:
Simplify and streamline technology
Save teachers’ time
Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
Improve student performance on state assessments
🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
Career Pivots for Teachers: Strategies for a Successful Transition
Check out https://futureproof-you.com/store for upcoming classes like our Career Pivots for Teachers
In this episode of the Future-Proof You podcast, hosts John Lovig and Aaron Makelky discuss career pivots for educators, focusing on practical steps teachers can take to transition out of traditional classroom roles. April is designated as career pivot month for the podcast, and Aaron leverages his own experience and expertise to highlight the growing desire among teachers to explore new career avenues. The discussion covers a range of important topics, including the importance of recognizing transferable skills, the specific challenges teachers face in job searching, and the seasonal nature of teaching job applications. Aaron emphasizes the significance of doing a comprehensive skills inventory, identifying and eliminating time wasters, and actively sharing progress and achievements on platforms like LinkedIn. The hosts also address the psychological aspects of career transitions, offering insights into overcoming imposter syndrome and the fear of leaving a stable but unfulfilling job. The episode aims to provide actionable advice and support for teachers considering a career change, and encourages them to explore resources provided by Future-Proof You, such as live classes and downloadable content.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:14 Understanding Career Pivots for Teachers
00:40 Challenges Teachers Face in Career Transitions
02:16 Transferable Skills and Competencies
04:21 Application Process and Job Search Strategies
06:13 Leveraging LinkedIn for Career Pivots
11:33 Steps to Building a Bridge Out of Teaching
19:24 Sharing Your Journey and Networking
24:28 Balancing Pain and Uncertainty in Career Changes
29:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Check out https://futureproof-you.com/store for upcoming classes
We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.
IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:
Simplify and streamline technology
Save teachers’ time
Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
Improve student performance on state assessments
🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
AI tools like Claude, Gemini, and ChatGPT are improving at a breakneck pace, sometimes feeling like they get better week by week, or even day by day. What does this rapid rate of change mean for your career, especially if you're job hunting, considering a pivot, or were recently laid off?
Join Aaron Makelky, Dan Yu, and John Lovig as they tackle this head-on. They discuss the startling acceleration of AI capabilities, moving from "eager intern" needing supervision to powerful assistants requiring minimal checks [00:01:50]. Learn the real implications for jobs traditionally focused on "handling things" (admins, VAs, paralegals) and why re-skilling with AI tools isn't just advice, it's essential [00:02:30].
The team dives into practical strategies: understand the "data moat" – why sticking with one AI tool can be smarter than chasing the newest model due to your built-in context and history [00:03:15]. Explore the alternative multi-tool approach and the power of integrating AI with your existing workflows, like connecting Google Drive to Perplexity [00:04:00].
Plus, get insights into the future of AI hardware integration [00:06:15] and a crucial breakdown of free vs. paid AI – what you're really paying for often isn't just features, but vital data privacy and control [00:07:40]. Get actionable advice to navigate the AI landscape and take control of your career today!
Key Topics Discussed:
Take Control of Your Career Today:
The AI landscape is shifting fast, but you can stay ahead. Ready to harness these tools and future-proof your career?
Visit www.futureproof-you.com today! Find essential resources, recordings, and sign up for upcoming live classes designed for:
Don't just react to change – lead it. Check out our free guide to setting up your LinkedIn Profile and follow FutureProof You on LinkedIn to start taking control of your career today!
We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.
IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:
Simplify and streamline technology
Save teachers’ time
Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
Improve student performance on state assessments
🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
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