Welcome to Season Two! In this episode, we dive into the wild ride that has been the job market over the past five years—a journey marked by remote work revolutions, massive layoffs, and seismic shifts across industries. And I’ve been right there on the roller coaster with you.

After facing two layoffs since 2020—one just before the pandemic and another in 2023 when my department was offshored—I know firsthand how disorienting and daunting job loss can be. But I’ve also learned a lot through this extended period of unemployment and rebuilding.

This episode is for anyone navigating their own journey of job loss, career change, or reinvention. I’ll share hard truths about today’s hiring landscape, including why the process takes longer than ever and how AI has made things feel less personal. But I’ll also highlight the good news: tools and strategies are available to help you regain control, clarify your goals, and find a role that truly aligns with your needs.

We’ll cover practical tips for staying organized, avoiding scams, and creating a job search plan tailored to you. Plus, I’ll explore how creativity can be a powerful antidote to the stress of job hunting, backed by research on its benefits for mental health.

It’s tough out there, but you’re not alone—and with the right mindset and tools, this chapter can lead to something extraordinary. Let’s get started.