In this transformative final episode of the season, global CEO coach and author Sabina Nawaz shares her journey from Microsoft software engineer to executive leadership expert, offering practical strategies for career transitions and authentic leadership.
Discover the power of "blank space" - intentional quiet time that can unlock career clarity and creative solutions. Sabina reveals how pressure can either corrupt your leadership or fuel innovation, and why many successful women fall into the "sole provider trap" that leads to burnout.

Learn actionable techniques for managing workplace pressure, getting honest feedback as a leader, and staying authentic while meeting business needs. Whether you're considering a career pivot, struggling with leadership challenges, or seeking more fulfillment in your professional life, this episode provides concrete tools for transformation.
Key topics include executive coaching strategies, women in leadership, career development, workplace authenticity, feedback culture, and finding purpose in your professional journey. Perfect for aspiring leaders, current managers, and anyone navigating career transitions in today's competitive workplace.

Guest: Sabina Nawaz, author of "You're the Boss: Become the Manager You Want to Be and Others Need," former Microsoft executive, and faculty member at Northwestern and Drexel universities. https://sabinanawaz.com/

Takeaways:
Deciding to work at Microsoft was a pivotal moment.
Quiet time can lead to significant insights.
Pressure can corrupt leadership behavior.
Finding joy in work is essential for fulfillment.
Authenticity in leadership is multifaceted.
Managing pressure is crucial for effective leadership.
Successful transitions require self-awareness and assessment.
Building a supportive network is vital for women in leadership.
Feedback quality is determined by the questions asked.
Success is about spending time wisely and fulfilling personal values.

Chapters:
00:00 The Importance of Blank Space
03:43 Facing Fears and Embracing Quiet Time
06:23 The Shift from Titles to Fulfillment
09:09 Managing Pressure and Power Dynamics
11:07 Authenticity in Leadership
13:59 Women in Leadership: Balancing Roles and Values
18:11 Navigating Authenticity in Leadership
19:21 Understanding Productive vs. Harmful Pressure
24:43 Career Transitions: Finding Fulfillment
28:11 Building Supportive Networks in Leadership
32:25 Common Leadership Pitfalls
33:59 Defining Personal Success
35:12 Transformative Feedback and Growth
39:17 Introduction to Transformation and Change
40:15 Insights from a Leadership Expert
41:32 Anticipating a Powerful Conversation
41:53 Introduction to the Influencer's Impact
41:54 Exploring the Reach of Articles

This week I'm chatting with Paige Mariah about her transformative career journey. Paige shares her experience moving from Chicago to London for grad school, building a successful career as a full-time content creator abroad, and her recent transition back to corporate America working for Kellogg. She discusses overcoming imposter syndrome, embracing change despite fear, and finding work-life balance after experiencing the freedom of self-employment. This conversation explores the reality behind social media's highlight reel, the importance of patience during major life transitions, and the empowering message that it's okay to pivot your career at any age. Paige's authentic perspective offers valuable insights on finding your path and honoring what's best for you at different stages of life.

Paige's YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@PaigeMariah

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:19 Transitioning to Another Country
04:41 Returning to the United States
06:13 Dealing with Social Perception
09:07 The Importance of Patience
13:30 Self-Work and Personal Growth
19:00 Transitioning to Corporate
19:56 Transitioning to a Corporate Job
22:05 Dealing with Imposter Syndrome
23:22 The Value of Working with a Team
25:18 Balancing Work and Life
28:53 Talking About Money with Friends
32:31 Returning to a 9-to-5 Job After Being Self-Employed
33:24 Pivoting and Changing in Your Career

Takeaways

• Embracing change can lead to personal growth and new opportunities.
• It's important to block out the noise of others' opinions and focus on your own goals and desires.
• Comparing yourself to others online can be detrimental to your own journey.
• Patience is crucial when navigating transitions and building a stable foundation.
• Self-work, such as therapy and journaling, can help in personal growth and adapting to change.
• Humans are adaptable by nature and can find new solutions and paths in life.
• Transitioning from a non-traditional career to corporate can be challenging, but with time and adjustment, it can lead to stability and growth. Transitioning to a new job, especially in a different industry, can be challenging and overwhelming, but it's important to remind yourself of your value and the unique perspective you bring.
• Imposter syndrome is common, but it's crucial to remember that you were chosen for your role for a reason. Show yourself grace and trust in your abilities.
• Working with a team and having a manager can provide mentorship, support, and opportunities for growth that may not be available when working for yourself.
• Finding a balance between work and life is essential. Speak up for yourself and set boundaries to prioritize your well-being.
• Having open conversations about money with friends can provide valuable insights and help you advocate for fair compensation.
• Returning to a 9-to-5 job after being self-employed is a valid choice. It's important to do what's best for you at any given moment and not be influenced by societal expectations.
• It's okay to pivot and change in your career, regardless of your age. Your needs and desires may evolve over time, and it's important to prioritize your own growth and happiness.

This week I'm chatting with entrepreneur, actress, and wellness advocate Vanessa Simmons. Known for her role on Run's House and co-founding the successful footwear brand Pastry, Vanessa opens up about her entrepreneurial journey, sharing valuable insights on knowing when to pivot in business and the importance of mental health awareness.

In this episode, Vanessa discusses her new wellness platform U4IA, an educational hub focused on fact-based beauty tips and mental health resources. She reveals how her father Rev Run's self-care practices influenced her own wellness philosophy, and shares practical advice on breaking the cycle of hustle culture through intentional breathing, journaling, and rest.

Discover how motherhood has deepened her self-awareness and shaped her leadership style, while learning actionable strategies for handling rejection and transforming perceived failures into valuable lessons. Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to make your next business move, someone interested in wellness practices, or simply a fan of Vanessa's journey, this conversation offers authentic wisdom on balancing ambition with self-compassion in both business and life. #VanessaSimmons #Entrepreneurship #WellnessJourney #MentalHealthAwareness #BusinessPivot #SelfCare

Learn more about U4IA - https://www.instagram.com/u4ianow 

Watch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/MDX7--NxeDs

Takeaways:

• Pastry was the first business venture for Vanessa and her sister.
• Deciding to walk away from a business can be difficult but necessary.
• It's important to take breaks to refresh and gain new perspectives.
• Vetting new business ideas should be based on passion and impact.
• Mental health and self-care are crucial in today's world.
• Breathing exercises can significantly reduce stress.
• Self-awareness is key in both personal and professional life.
• Failure should be viewed as a lesson rather than a setback.
• Motherhood has deepened Vanessa's self-awareness and patience.
• Leadership involves accountability and original thought.

In this inspiring conversation, I reconnect with a longtime friend of the podcast, Dominique B. Fluker, whose journey I've witnessed from PR agency copywriter to nationally recognized multimedia journalist and contributing lifestyle editor at Essence Magazine. Dominique shares the pivotal moments that shaped her bold career transitions—from quitting TikTok and moving to LA without a job or graduate school acceptance, to walking red carpets and interviewing celebrities like Oprah. With raw honesty, she discusses overcoming personal tragedy, using intuition to guide professional decisions, and balancing ambition with meaningful relationships. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone considering a career change, building their personal brand, or seeking work-life balance. Dominique's story proves that with tenacity, faith, and strategic networking, you can create the fabulous life you deserve without regrets.

Dominique's website - https://dominiquebfluker.com/

Takeaways:
Dominique emphasizes the importance of stepping up in challenging situations.
Her experiences with loss have solidified her confidence and resilience.
She created her own opportunities through blogging and networking.
Dominique's journey reflects the significance of authenticity in one's career.
She believes in the power of intuition when making life decisions.
Dominique highlights the importance of cherishing milestones and achievements.
She prepares for interviews by researching and connecting emotionally with her subjects.
Dominique acknowledges the struggle of balancing ambition with personal fulfillment.
She defines success as a combination of personal and professional achievements.
Dominique stresses that hard work is essential, regardless of appearances. 

Chatting with Whitney Faires, an executive coach with over two decades of corporate experience. Tune in to hear invaluable insights on leadership, overcoming self-doubt, and thriving in your professional journey. Whitney shares her journey from corporate sales to executive coaching, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and intentional career moves. She delves into her creation, the Excellence Equation, an eight-step framework designed to help professionals achieve big goals despite uncertainty. Whitney also discusses key tips for finding the right coach, the importance of aligning personal and professional values, and how to take ownership of your career development.

 
00:00 Welcome to the Switch, Pivot, or Quit Podcast
00:36 Introducing Whitney Faires: Executive Coach
01:09 Whitney's Journey: From Corporate to Coaching
02:09 Navigating Career Pivots and Internal Moves
06:21 The Importance of Finding the Right Coach
08:17 Overcoming Underestimation and Proving Yourself
10:36 Handling Pressure and Trusting the Process
13:32 The Excellence Equation: A Framework for Success
17:19 Defining Leadership and Core Principles
19:40 Defining Leadership Identity
20:30 Exploring People Leadership Roles
21:34 Navigating Company Culture
23:02 Making Career Moves
25:18 Developing Your Own Playbook
29:13 Embracing Authenticity
31:54 Evolving View of Success
34:22 Taking Ownership of Your Career
35:21 Conclusion and Contact Information

It's tempting to want to find a way around the work or potential struggle, but the process often offers more than we know we need.

This week the conversation touches on the importance of self-leadership, managing difficult conversations with your manager, and staying fulfilled at work amidst uncertainty. Elizabeth Lotardo offers actionable advice on upskilling, finding purpose in your current role, and maintaining meaningful workplace relationships. The episode also delves into the challenges and strategies of leading without formal authority and managing career burnout. This insightful discussion is packed with practical tips for anyone navigating personal and professional transitions.

Book - https://www.elizabethlotardo.com/writing

Takeaways

• Self-leadership is crucial in today's evolving work environment.
• The pandemic has shifted how we view job security and fulfillment.
• Finding purpose in your current role can enhance job satisfaction.
• Building relationships at work is essential for a positive experience.
• Upskilling is a proactive way to manage career uncertainty.
• Navigating career transitions requires careful consideration of personal motivations.
• Community support can significantly impact professional growth.
• AI is a tool that can enhance productivity, not replace jobs.
• Managing burnout involves setting clear priorities and boundaries.
• Self-leadership is an ongoing process, not a destination.

Chapters:
00:00   Introduction and Guest Overview
01:06   Inspiration Behind 'Leading Yourself'
02:37   Workforce Changes and Emotional Shifts
04:58   Navigating Career Uncertainty
08:09   Finding Purpose and Building Relationships at Work
15:20   Promoting 'Leading Yourself' and Embracing AI
19:10   LinkedIn Learning Journey
22:36  Creating Impactful Courses
23:21  Navigating LinkedIn Learning
26:43  Promoting Your Courses
27:31   Finding Fulfillment in Your Career
29:18   Leading Yourself to Success
36:22   Managing Burnout and Prioritization
39:22   Risks of Self-Leadership
40:45   Final Thoughts and Resources
42:53   Outro and Personal Reflections

This week I'm sharing observations about the challenges of the one-sided nature of giving. I share my frustrations and the hidden labor that goes unnoticed. We'll explore how setting boundaries and rephrasing requests can ensure mutual benefits. Plus, I’m stirring up some self-reflection on our giving-and-taking dynamics. Tune in to hear my thoughts, stories, and tips on fostering respectful and reciprocal professional relationships. Let's make those connections real and valuable!

Timecodes:
00:00 Introduction and Host's Background
00:40 The Emotional Labor of Giving
02:37 Challenges of Podcast Guest Requests
03:40 The Importance of Reciprocity
08:14 Setting Boundaries and Expectations
21:27 Crafting Effective Communication
24:32 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

We're talking about the intriguing paradox of being a 'hardworking, lazy girl.' We'll explore the shift away from hustle culture towards honoring our need for rest, and how you can be both incredibly productive and selectively lazy. We'll look at strategic ways to manage your energy, use time blocking, automate tasks, and practice strategic procrastination. Embrace your natural productivity rhythms and learn why rest is an essential part of being productive. Join me as we unpack this unique mindset and make it work in your favor. Let's redefine what it means to be both hardworking and lazy!

https://www.ahyianaangel.com/

Tricia Hersey (Author mention) - https://thenapministry.wordpress.com/

Time Codes:
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:25 The Shift from Hustle Culture
01:17 Embracing Laziness
02:22 The Hardworking, Lazy Girl Paradox
04:39 Strategies for Success
08:33 Energy Peaks and Time Blocking
13:54 Automation and Elimination
16:52 Implementation Intentions and Strategic Procrastination
20:03 Emotional Side of Being a Hardworking, Lazy Girl
21:29 Recap and Final Thoughts
23:16 Closing Remarks

keyword themes: 

• Hard-working lazy girl
• Productivity paradox
• Strategic laziness
• Energy management
• Hustle culture
• Rest is resistance
• Work smarter, not harder
• Productivity hacks
• Time blocking
• Pomodoro technique
• Decision fatigue
• Strategic procrastination
• Energy peaks
• Automation strategies
• Chronotypes
• Work-life balance
• Efficient productivity
• Self-judgment
• Permission to rest
• Soft Girl era
• Focus work
• Energy resources
• Task automation
• Energy peaks
• Night owl productivity
• Morning productivity
• Email templates
• Meal planning 
• Auto bill pay
• Productivity systems
• Task template
• Google Sheets productivity
• Creative solutions
• Subconscious problem-solving
• Mindless tasks
• Intense focus
• Sustainable productivity
• Messy middle

This week I'm guiding you through a practical framework called the Clarity Compass, designed to help you achieve clarity when you're at a career and life crossroads. We delve into the concept of internal misalignment that often hides behind external success, and I share my own experiences of feeling stuck in a seemingly perfect job. We'll conduct a values excavation, create an alignment matrix, and engage in a visualization exercise to help you align your future decisions with your true self. By the end of this episode, you'll have actionable steps to commit to one small change within the next 24 hours, making meaningful career transitions a reality. Join me in this journey toward clarity and alignment, and let's make moves together!

00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome
00:43 Understanding the Sunday Night Dread
03:51 The Clarity Compass Framework
05:31 Myth Busting: Finding True Clarity
06:07 Personal Story: The PR Job Realization
10:50 Values Exploration Exercise
16:49 Creating Your Alignment Matrix
22:59 Visualization Exercise for Future Clarity
27:59 Taking Action: The Next 24 Hours Rule
32:57 Final Thoughts and Homework