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What do you do when a dream job ends in heartbreak?

In this eye-opening episode of The Mid-Career GPS Podcast, host John Neral sits down with Laverne McKinnon, former Senior VP of Drama Development at CBS, to talk about a rarely acknowledged experience: career grief.

After leading CBS from last place to first with mega-hits like CSI and Criminal Minds, Laverne was unexpectedly fired at the height of her career. What followed was a silent, decade-long struggle with emotional fallout that society often tells us to ignore.

Laverne introduces the concept of disenfranchised grief—a powerful term for the emotional pain professionals feel after job loss or career disruption that isn’t socially validated. Through her LEARN Framework (Look, Explore, 

Address, Reframe, Nurture), Laverne shows how we can move from heartbreak to healing, reconnect with our values, and reclaim agency over our careers.

Whether you're facing layoffs, mid-career stagnation, or preparing for a major transition, this episode will help you understand how to grieve the professional losses we’re told to "just get over."

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Why career grief is real—and why ignoring it is harmful
• The emotional impact of sudden job loss after career success
• What disenfranchised grief means in the workplace
• How to use the LEARN framework to process grief and regain clarity
• The connection between unprocessed failure and blocked resilience
• Rituals like writing a "career eulogy" to create closure
• How grief reveals your core values—and points you toward your next moonshot

Connect with Laverne McKinnon

Website | LinkedIn | Substack

Support the show

Ready to give your career the jumpstart it needs to whatever is next? Schedule a $197 Career/Leadership Strategy Session. Click here to learn more about how this transformative strategy session will help you.

Visit https://johnneral.com/resources to:

• Subscribe to my free leadership and career newsletter
• Get The Mid-Career Promotion Blueprint to help you figure out whatever is next for you and your career
• Join The Mid-Career GPS Membership Community.

Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here.

Connect with John on LinkedIn here.
Get John's New Mid-Career Journal on Amazon here.
Follow John on Instagram @johnneralcoaching.
Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

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If your career is stuck in neutral, maybe it’s not your résumé—it’s your relationships.

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Dominic Imwali, Senior Consultant at Deloitte and founder of DX Consulting, to unpack why genuine, face-to-face connections are the real catalyst for career growth—especially in mid-career transitions.

Dominic takes us behind the scenes of his unconventional rise, from a frustrating pandemic moment to an assignment leading global consulting work in Indonesia. 

As Dominic says, “You don’t need to know the right people—you need to become the right person for others to know.”

Whether you’re aiming for your next promotion, preparing for a pivot, or trying to revive your career momentum, this episode gives you practical, real-world strategies to build a Personal Board of Directors, deepen your network, and approach relationship-building with intention.

Key Takeaways:

• The real secret to career advancement? Authentic relationships—not perfectly timed applications or flawless LinkedIn profiles.
• Dominic’s mid-career mindset shift: How frustration turned into fuel during lockdown, leading him to prioritize exposure, generosity, and connection.
• Build your Personal Board of Directors: Learn how to identify 3–5 trusted advisors who offer honest feedback, real support, and strategic insight.
• Networking the right way: Why 1–2 meaningful conversations per week outperform mass LinkedIn outreach every time.
• From Cleveland to Jakarta: What Dominic’s 3-month assignment in Indonesia taught him about managing stress, cultural barriers, and uncertainty.
• Avoid these common mistakes: Generic messages, transactional asks, and over-automation are killing your networking potential.
• Where to begin: Start where it’s easy—alumni groups, interest communities, and shared values.

Connect with Dominic Imwalle

LinkedIn | Newsletter 

Support the show

Ready to give your career the jumpstart it needs to whatever is next? Schedule a $197 Career/Leadership Strategy Session. Click here to learn more about how this transformative strategy session will help you.

Visit https://johnneral.com/resources to:

• Subscribe to my free leadership and career newsletter
• Get The Mid-Career Promotion Blueprint to help you figure out whatever is next for you and your career
• Join The Mid-Career GPS Membership Community.

Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here.

Connect with John on LinkedIn here.
Get John's New Mid-Career Journal on Amazon here.
Follow John on Instagram @johnneralcoaching.
Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

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How can mid-career professionals engage in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) conversations without fear of saying the wrong thing? Bernadette Smith, CEO of the Equality Institute, shares her ARC Method—Ask, Respect, Connect—a simple yet powerful approach to fostering authentic connections while ensuring psychological safety at work.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

✅ How to navigate DEI discussions with confidence and "kind curiosity"
✅ Why over-apologizing for mistakes can do more harm than good
✅ How to build meaningful relationships in workplaces scaling back DEI efforts
✅ Why progress in social movements includes setbacks—but connections endure
✅ How pickleball (yes, pickleball!) offers surprising lessons in inclusion

Key Takeaways:

✔ The ARC Method makes DEI conversations more approachable and effective
✔ A simple, sincere apology is better than over-apologizing
✔ Asking for help isn’t a weakness—it strengthens relationships
✔ DEI isn’t about political correctness—it’s about harnessing diversity for success

Subscribe to Bernadette’s newsletter → FiveThingsDEI.com

Bernadette Smith’s Website → https://BernadetteSmith.com 

Listen to her podcast → Five Things in 15 Minutes

If you're looking to lead with inclusion and confidence, this episode is a must-listen!

Support the show

Ready to give your career the jumpstart it needs to whatever is next? Schedule a $197 Career/Leadership Strategy Session. Click here to learn more about how this transformative strategy session will help you.

Visit https://johnneral.com/resources to:

• Subscribe to my free leadership and career newsletter
• Get The Mid-Career Promotion Blueprint to help you figure out whatever is next for you and your career
• Join The Mid-Career GPS Membership Community.

Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here.

Connect with John on LinkedIn here.
Get John's New Mid-Career Journal on Amazon here.
Follow John on Instagram @johnneralcoaching.
Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

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Have you ever faced an interview so awkward that it left you questioning everything? In this episode, I share a hilariously uncomfortable yet eye-opening moment from my mid-career transition—when I found myself in a final-round interview, staring at a superintendent’s exposed belly button.

What started as a bizarre wardrobe malfunction became a defining lesson about workplace culture, authenticity, and the power of being true to yourself. 

Sometimes, the jobs we don’t get are the ones that save us from environments where we would never thrive.

Tune in as I reveal:

• The unexpected career transition from middle school math teacher to an administrative role.
• How a final-round interview in a sweltering New Jersey summer took a weird turn.
• Why I made the bold decision to address the superintendent’s wardrobe malfunction.
• The painfully awkward silence that followed—and what it revealed about workplace culture.
• How job rejections can actually be career blessings in disguise.
• Why staying true to yourself matters more than landing any position.

If you've ever had an interview moment that made you cringe, you’re not alone! Let’s explore what these moments teach us about career growth and finding the right professional fit.

Support the show

Ready to give your career the jumpstart it needs to whatever is next? Schedule a $197 Career/Leadership Strategy Session. Click here to learn more about how this transformative strategy session will help you.

Visit https://johnneral.com/resources to:

• Subscribe to my free leadership and career newsletter
• Get The Mid-Career Promotion Blueprint to help you figure out whatever is next for you and your career
• Join The Mid-Career GPS Membership Community.

Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here.

Connect with John on LinkedIn here.
Get John's New Mid-Career Journal on Amazon here.
Follow John on Instagram @johnneralcoaching.
Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

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Feeling trapped in a toxic workplace and fantasizing about a dramatic exit? 

Before you burn bridges, this episode dives into the psychology of revenge quitting and why it’s often more damaging than liberating. While the impulse to quit in protest is understandable, the long-term consequences—especially in today’s uncertain job market—can be severe.

In this episode, you'll learn: 

✔ The psychology behind revenge quitting and why it feels so satisfying 

✔ How shifting job market trends make impulsive exits riskier 

✔ Three major risks: extended job searches, burned bridges, and AI-driven job cuts 

✔ Smart alternatives, including “quietly preparing” for a strategic departure

✔ How negotiating workplace changes might provide a temporary solution 

✔ The importance of leaving professionally to protect future opportunities 

✔ How to build your Mid-Career GPS for a thoughtful and strategic career transition

Your career is too valuable to risk on an impulsive decision. Instead of making an emotional exit, learn how to transition professionally and strategically on your terms.

Support the show

Ready to give your career the jumpstart it needs to whatever is next? Schedule a $197 Career/Leadership Strategy Session. Click here to learn more about how this transformative strategy session will help you.

Visit https://johnneral.com/resources to:

• Subscribe to my free leadership and career newsletter
• Get The Mid-Career Promotion Blueprint to help you figure out whatever is next for you and your career
• Join The Mid-Career GPS Membership Community.

Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here.

Connect with John on LinkedIn here.
Get John's New Mid-Career Journal on Amazon here.
Follow John on Instagram @johnneralcoaching.
Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

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In this insightful episode, Melissa Mawai shares her inspiring journey from corporate project management to becoming a published children's author and illustrator. After the passing of her father and the global pandemic, Melissa found herself at a crossroads—one that led her to pursue her true passion for storytelling. Now, with five published books under her belt with major publishers like National Geographic Kids and DK, Melissa reflects on the challenges, lessons, and triumphs of her creative career pivot.

One of the biggest hurdles she faced? Self-promotion. If you've ever struggled with marketing yourself, you'll appreciate Melissa’s honest take on overcoming the “ick” factor and finding an authentic way to share your work. As a neurodiverse professional, she has also dedicated her work to helping neurodiverse children navigate the world through engaging stories.

From navigating the entrepreneurial path to embracing creativity in every professional interaction, Melissa offers invaluable wisdom for anyone looking to align their career with their passions. Plus, she gives us a sneak peek into her upcoming podcast, Kid Lit Deconstruction Zone!

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How Melissa used the COVID-19 pandemic as a turning point in her career
• The impact of personal loss on career clarity and purpose
• Overcoming the discomfort of self-promotion and marketing yourself authentically
• The importance of creating stories that support neurodiverse children
• How coaching helped her refine her career path and build confidence
• The journey to launching her new podcast, Kid Lit Deconstruction Zone
• How to infuse creativity into networking and professional relationships
• Melissa’s future goals, including more school visits and speaking engagements

Resources & Links: Connect with Melissa and explore her work:

• Website: melissamawai.com
• Follow her on LinkedIn  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mmwai/ – she promises to say hello back!

If you’re looking for inspiration to bring more creativ

Support the show

Ready to give your career the jumpstart it needs to whatever is next? Schedule a $197 Career/Leadership Strategy Session. Click here to learn more about how this transformative strategy session will help you.

Visit https://johnneral.com/resources to:

• Subscribe to my free leadership and career newsletter
• Get The Mid-Career Promotion Blueprint to help you figure out whatever is next for you and your career
• Join The Mid-Career GPS Membership Community.

Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here.

Connect with John on LinkedIn here.
Get John's New Mid-Career Journal on Amazon here.
Follow John on Instagram @johnneralcoaching.
Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

Send us a text

This episode explores how mid-career professionals unknowingly sabotage their job search by "playing small." With over 172,000 layoffs announced in February 2023—a staggering 245% increase from January—accelerating your job search is more critical than ever.

Common pitfalls that hinder success include:

• Searching for the "perfect" strategy instead of focusing on consistent efforts that yield results.
• Avoiding assertive outreach for fear of appearing desperate, when true confidence is key.
• Hesitating to engage your network, mistakenly believing you'll be a burden.

Success comes from strategic action: track what works, confidently communicate your value, and proactively connect with those who can help. 

Ask yourself: How would you show up if you believed your value was non-negotiable?

Download the free Mid-Career Job Seeker's Checklist at johnneral.com to get organized and start seeing results in your job search.

Support the show

Ready to give your career the jumpstart it needs to whatever is next? Schedule a $197 Career/Leadership Strategy Session. Click here to learn more about how this transformative strategy session will help you.

Visit https://johnneral.com/resources to:

• Subscribe to my free leadership and career newsletter
• Get The Mid-Career Promotion Blueprint to help you figure out whatever is next for you and your career
• Join The Mid-Career GPS Membership Community.

Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here.

Connect with John on LinkedIn here.
Get John's New Mid-Career Journal on Amazon here.
Follow John on Instagram @johnneralcoaching.
Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

Send us a text

Feeling anxious about job security in today’s unpredictable market? You’re not alone. In this episode of The Mid-Career GPS Podcast, host John Neral breaks down the most pressing concerns facing mid-career professionals in 2025. Drawing from a recent webinar, John shares expert insights and actionable strategies to help you take charge of your career, stay resilient, and proactively prepare for industry shifts.

Discover how to confidently navigate uncertainty, build a strong professional network, and develop a personal brand that keeps you relevant in an evolving job market. Whether facing workplace instability or simply looking to future-proof your career, this episode will equip you with the tools you need to thrive.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 

✅ Key job market trends and corporate restructuring insights from a recent webinar
✅ How to manage job loss fears and workplace instability without sacrificing well-being
✅ Actionable strategies to adapt to change and maintain work-life balance
✅ The power of personal branding and how to showcase measurable career results
✅ Leveraging emotional intelligence to stay competitive in the job market
✅ The value of mentorship and building a personal board of directors for career support

Support the show

Ready to give your career the jumpstart it needs to whatever is next? Schedule a $197 Career/Leadership Strategy Session. Click here to learn more about how this transformative strategy session will help you.

Visit https://johnneral.com/resources to:

• Subscribe to my free leadership and career newsletter
• Get The Mid-Career Promotion Blueprint to help you figure out whatever is next for you and your career
• Join The Mid-Career GPS Membership Community.

Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here.

Connect with John on LinkedIn here.
Get John's New Mid-Career Journal on Amazon here.
Follow John on Instagram @johnneralcoaching.
Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

Send us a text

Do You Love Your Job or Just Like It? Your Career Narrative Shapes Your Satisfaction

Have you ever stopped to ask yourself: Do I truly love my job, or do I just like the people I work with? In this insightful episode, we explore what it really means to feel fulfilled in your career—and why the stories you tell yourself about your job matter more than you think.

Inspired by a powerful lesson from Simon Sinek, we break down the key differences between loving your work and simply liking it. From job tasks and company culture to compensation and workplace relationships, we uncover the factors contributing to long-term job satisfaction.

I’ll also share a personal story about returning to work after cataract surgery, revealing the deep joy I find in coaching mid-career professionals toward meaningful careers. Plus, you’ll gain practical strategies for navigating workplace conversations with intention, ensuring you communicate your job satisfaction (or dissatisfaction) in a way that benefits your career.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ How to assess whether you love your job or just like aspects of it

✅ The power of your internal career narrative and how it affects job satisfaction
✅ A mindful communication strategy for workplace conversations: “Do you need to be heard, helped, or hugged?”
✅ The role of career coaching in finding fulfillment—whether it’s in your current role or a new opportunity
✅ Signs it may be time to pivot in your career and how to navigate change proactively.

If you’re a mid-career professional looking to gain clarity, fulfillment, and career direction, this episode is a must-listen!

Support the show

Ready to give your career the jumpstart it needs to whatever is next? Schedule a $197 Career/Leadership Strategy Session. Click here to learn more about how this transformative strategy session will help you.

Visit https://johnneral.com/resources to:

• Subscribe to my free leadership and career newsletter
• Get The Mid-Career Promotion Blueprint to help you figure out whatever is next for you and your career
• Join The Mid-Career GPS Membership Community.

Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here.

Connect with John on LinkedIn here.
Get John's New Mid-Career Journal on Amazon here.
Follow John on Instagram @johnneralcoaching.
Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

Send us a text

Are you ready to elevate your leadership skills and navigate mid-career transitions with confidence? 

In this episode of The Mid-Career GPS Podcast, I sit down with leadership and talent expert Jordana Cole to uncover the essential leadership qualities that drive success in 2025 and beyond.

Jordana shares her transformational journey—from managing client services teams to leading organizational learning and development—highlighting the power of long-term growth strategies. Whether you’ve recently stepped into a leadership role or are striving to refine your management approach, this episode delivers actionable insights to help you lead with impact.

We discuss:

✅ Why High Performers Struggle in Leadership Roles – The challenges of transitioning from technical expert to effective leader
✅ Leadership Competencies That Matter – What separates great leaders from the rest (backed by Gallup research)
✅ Creating a Thriving Work Environment – Strategies to engage, motivate, and retain top talent
✅ The Power of Stay Interviews – How to assess employee satisfaction and boost retention
✅ Managing Difficult Conversations – Using empathy and transparency to build trust
✅ Recalibrating Leadership Goals – Shifting from fear-based decisions to growth-driven opportunities.

Leadership is more than a title—it’s a mindset. This episode equips mid-career professionals with the tools to foster open dialogue, embrace adaptability, and redefine career success.

Gain expert strategies for leading with confidence, crafting a high-performance team, and achieving long-term career fulfillment.

Connect with Jordana Cole: Website | LinkedIn 

Support the show

Ready to give your career the jumpstart it needs to whatever is next? Schedule a $197 Career/Leadership Strategy Session. Click here to learn more about how this transformative strategy session will help you.

Visit https://johnneral.com/resources to:

• Subscribe to my free leadership and career newsletter
• Get The Mid-Career Promotion Blueprint to help you figure out whatever is next for you and your career
• Join The Mid-Career GPS Membership Community.

Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here.

Connect with John on LinkedIn here.
Get John's New Mid-Career Journal on Amazon here.
Follow John on Instagram @johnneralcoaching.
Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.