Switch, Pivot or Quit

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

I'm finally spilling the tea on where I've been since 2021. We're chatting about my initial reasons for pausing the podcast, including burnout and feeling overwhelmed by the saturation of the podcasting space. I'm giving details on what I've been up to talking about my professional endeavors, such as working on a book, consulting on the LinkedIn Podcast Network, and more. I'm also introducing Growth Circles by Switch, Pivot or Quit and if you're interested in learning more get on my email list at www.AhyianaAngel.com!

Timecodes:
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
01:05 Why I Pressed Pause on the Podcast
06:33 Realizations During the Break
12:03 Life in New York City
13:42 Travel Adventures
22:13 Personal Growth and Hobbies
27:06 Professional Updates
36:49 Embracing Change and Growth Circles
40:19 Closing Remarks

This week I'm chatting with Rebecca Sananés, an accomplished executive producer and journalist. We get into her impressive career trajectory from public radio to leading podcasts for high-profile talent such as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex aka Prince Harry and Megan Markle. Rebecca shares her thoughts on professional nerves, the perpetual journey of improving one's craft, and the importance of self-awareness in career decisions. She also touches on the overlooked opportunities in the podcasting industry behind the microphone and the common misconception that producing successful podcasts is easy. Tune in for insightful anecdotes, career advice, and an inspiring dialogue about navigating the complex, yet rewarding world of podcasting.

00:00 Introduction and Host's Welcome
00:46 Guest Introduction: Rebecca Senanez
02:05 Rebecca's Career Journey and Achievements
03:24 Working with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex
06:50 Craft and Creativity in Podcasting
12:54 Self-Awareness and Career Decisions
15:51 The Reality of Podcasting Industry
22:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

I'm looking back at a convo I think will spark ideas for you as you navigate looking for a new job or building your network. My guest is Melanie Feldman and she shares her unique journey from facing multiple job rejections to landing roles at top companies without applying. We discuss the importance of human connection, overcoming the fear of rejection, and crafting a standout presence to get hired. You'll gain valuable insights into navigating the job market, negotiating salaries, and finding fulfillment in your career. Practical advice and inspiring stories to help you make your next career move confidently.

Melanie's Website - https://www.youaregoingplaces.com/

00:00 Introduction to Switch Pivot or Quit
01:00 Throwback Episode Introduction
01:58 Meet Melanie Feldman
03:25 Melanie's Career Journey
05:51 Strategies for Job Hunting
12:10 Overcoming Rejection
14:51 Career Decisions and Growth
23:15 Negotiating Salary and Success
27:25 Conclusion and Farewell

We're discussing five essential questions to consider before making a career change. There is no magic key that will make everything make sense and ensure smooth sailing but answering these questions will give you a strong foundation to work from.

https://www.ahyianaangel.com/

Takeaways:

• Making a career change is hard and requires careful consideration.
• Understanding your motivations is crucial for a successful transition.
• Identifying your strengths can help you find a fulfilling career path.
• Defining your non-negotiables can guide your decision-making process.
• Setting realistic expectations can prepare you for the challenges ahead.
• Having a transition plan is essential for a smooth career change.
• Self-reflection is key to understanding what you truly want.
• Recognizing the importance of financial planning during a transition is vital.
• Building relationships in your desired industry can open new opportunities.
• Investing in yourself through skill development is crucial for success.

Chapters:
00:00 Navigating Career Changes
06:39 Understanding Your Motivations
11:21 Identifying Strengths and Weaknesses
15:17 Defining Non-Negotiables
19:05 Setting Realistic Expectations
24:44 Creating a Transition Plan

I'm speaking with Ty Alexander, a best-selling author, speaker, podcaster, wellness blogger, and DJ. We're exploring Ty’s journey of embracing vulnerability, shaped significantly by the grief over her mother's loss.

Ty discusses how her multifaceted career—from being a wellness blogger to becoming a DJ—requires constant learning and adaptation. She shares insights into leveraging social media for career growth, the importance of trying and failing, and the necessity of documenting one’s journey. Ty also talks about balancing different roles and the ongoing healing and self-improvement journey.

https://tyalexander.co/
https://www.ahyianaangel.com/

Timecodes:
00:00 Welcome to Switch, Pivot, or Quit
00:32 Introducing Ty Alexander
02:35 Embracing Vulnerability
07:31 The Power of Trying New Things
09:09 Navigating Financial Security
11:42 Journey to Becoming a DJ
17:52 Overcoming the Intimidation of Learning
18:31 The Joy of Mastering New Skills
20:50 The Process of DJing and Scratching
24:40 Transitioning from Influencer to DJ
26:11 Latest Aha Moments and Wellness Journey
28:51 Favorite Apps and Tools
32:07 Final Thoughts and Farewell

This week, I talked to my talented friend Tiffany Ashita, a top podcast executive. We discussed her journey from intern at Showtime Networks to creating Essence Magazine's podcast network and becoming the U.S. Director of Content for ACAST. Tiffany shared insights on building a business from scratch, making tough decisions, and staying connected to your audience. She also gave aspiring podcasters and creators valuable advice about taking the long haul seriously. 

https://www.ahyianaangel.com/

I sat down with Aniekeme Umoh, Founder of Aniekeme Admissions Consulting and a Wharton MBA graduate. We dived into her controversial take on imposter syndrome and discussed why getting an MBA isn't always the answer to career challenges. As someone who was once told she wouldn't get into a top business school, Aniekeme now helps others navigate the MBA admissions process, including one client who went from being rejected by five schools to getting accepted to all five with $250,000 in scholarships. We wrapped up with a powerful message about reframing the concept of "quitting" as an act of self-respect and empowerment.

https://aniekeme.com/

https://www.ahyianaangel.com/

The Switch, Pivot or Quit podcast started in 2017 and Host, Ahyiana Angel, shares some of the show's highlights, and key insights from spectacular guests over the years. This is a great place to start if you're a new listener. 

Featured Clips:
0:55 - Dr. Tega Edwin featured on "Finding Fulfillment: Dr. Tega Edwin on Transforming Unhappy Careers"
02:02 - Tanika Cabral featured on "Creating a Career Development Plan with Tanika Cabral"
02:33 - Jen Sincero, Author of You Are a Badass; featured on "Discover Your Inner Badass: Jen Sincero's Guide to Personal and Professional Growth"
02:59 - Elaine Welteroth featured on "From Teen Vogue to Bestselling Author - A Journey of Empowerment and Change with Elaine Welteroth"
03:29 - Charity Bailey featured on "The Grit Behind Success: Overcoming Setbacks and Finding Fulfillment with Charity Bailey" 
03:59 - Alexandra Carter featured on "Elevate Your Negotiation Skills: Alexandra Carter on Asking For More" 
04:41 - Melissa Butler, Founder of The Lip Bar featured on "The Lip Bar's Melissa Butler on Business, Beauty, and Breaking Industry Standards"
05:20 - Imani Ellis, Founder of CultureCon; featured on "Building CultureCon and Balancing a Thriving Career in NYC with Imani Ellis"

In part two with Dr. Carol, we discuss the common misconceptions around leadership roles, especially for women of color, and the importance of transitioning from a doer to a visionary. Dr. Carol shares actionable insights on rebranding yourself within an organization, the necessity of self-awareness, and the crucial soft skills needed in today's workplace.