In this episode of Pixelated Path, host Chris Abad talks with Jessica Sommer about the emotional and professional challenges of facing job loss in the tech industry. Jessica shares her journey from getting laid off to finding new opportunities, emphasizing the importance of resilience, adapting to change, and staying grounded in a rapidly evolving field. They discuss her educational background, including her love for research and interdisciplinary studies, and how her experiences in anthropology and statistics have shaped her career. Jessica also opens up about personal milestones, such as dealing with her mother's cancer diagnosis and balancing work during the pandemic while raising a child. This episode offers valuable insights for UX professionals on handling career setbacks, personal growth, and the significance of empathy and self-care in the workplace.00:00 Facing Job Loss in Tech: Turning Uncertainty into Opportunity00:54 Jessica's Journey: From High School to University Research04:46 Navigating Early Career Challenges and Personal Loss08:44 The Importance of Empathy and Innovation in the Workplace13:22 Balancing Work, Personal Well-being, and Mentorship23:10 The Impact of Layoffs and the Future of Work in Tech28:15 Responding to Change: Advice for New Professionals29:19 Navigating Company Layoffs30:57 Personal Experience with Layoffs32:59 Starting Over: A New Beginning33:40 Lessons from Managing Layoffs35:18 Resilience and Positive Outlook42:29 Balancing Career and Parenthood47:34 Creating Safe Work Environments55:05 Final Thoughts and Future Plans