FWD: Thinking

Ryan Fitzgibbon quit his job as a communication designer at IDEO to launch the queer lifestyle magazine “Hello Mr.” Fitzgibbon’s shares how his own vulnerability permeated the publication and how adults can retain a childlike curiosity.

Twenty-five years after working in marketing communications, Leighann Lord’s stand-up has appeared on HBO and Comedy Central. Find out how she managed to juggle her day job with night gigs and whether “follow your passion” is good advice.

Mike Zapata started his own hedge fund after spending a decade as a Navy SEAL. Learn how Zapata applied skills he learned as a SEAL to his career in finance and what training at the bottom of a pool without oxygen can teach you about stress.

Manoush Zomorodi launched Stable Genius Productions, a women-led podcast company after sexual harassment allegations rocked WNYC. Discover how to build a business when you quit sooner than anticipated and how to negotiate with a co-founder.

FWD: Thinking is a podcast about bold professionals who have challenged the status quo to recreate their careers. They've grown out of the cracks in the org chart, punched above their titles, and when all else failed, started their own companies. Hosted by Khe Hy and created by Quartz, this podcast traces the blueprints that lead to a more fulfilling work life.

Brad Katsuyama was a star trader at the Royal Bank of Canada until he left to start his own stock exchange after the financial crisis. Find out how he came up with a plan to leave his job and why new employees should take the lunch order seriously.