The Purposeful Career Podcast

Ever feel like you're on autopilot, juggling countless responsibilities while your own needs fall by the wayside? Meet Rebecca, a coaching client who bravely decided to hit the brakes and rewrite her own story. We explore her journey from senior director to vice president in a healthcare organization, all while keeping her passion for music alive. Rebecca’s story is a testament to how pursuing personal interests and integrating self-care can lead to career success and personal fulfillment.

Inspired by Rebecca's candid reflections, we dig deep into the emotional realization that traditional roles and expectations can obscure our own needs. Despite being the primary breadwinner, Rebecca found herself slipping into conventional gender roles within her relationship, a dynamic that was far from fulfilling. This chapter of her life is a compelling narrative about breaking free from societal expectations and prioritizing self-care, even as I share my own battle of self-neglect during a family crisis. Together, we unravel the painful yet transformative epiphany of valuing oneself—an awakening that many of us face in our journey.

Boosting your mental health and embracing self-care isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity. We discuss practical strategies for crafting a consistent self-care routine that respects your mental and physical health. Whether it's scheduling time for exercise or simply acknowledging your self-worth through daily self-coaching, these empowering practices can have a profound impact on your life. For those ready to take this journey further, consider exploring my virtual coaching program, Next Level, and take the first step towards making your career and personal life everything you dream it could be.

Do you have a question you'd like to have addressed on the podcast? Want to give us some feedback or suggestions? Click here to send us a text.

Follow us on Instagram @thepurposefulcareer.
Learn more about Next Level, our monthly membership at https://www.thepurposefulcareer.com/nextlevel.

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the chaos of the world around you? Today, I share my personal journey through the stormy seas of life's uncontrollable events, from the political landscape to the relentless flow of social media and the global pandemic. What if the key to stability and peace lies not in taming the external world, but in mastering our internal responses? Join me as I recount my own challenges, including the heart-wrenching loss of both parents in a short span, and how these experiences revealed the profound importance of focusing on what we can control—our actions, thoughts, and responses.

This episode isn't just about personal anecdotes; it's a guide to navigating life's chaos with clarity and purpose. We'll explore how centering ourselves on our core values and goals can transform our productivity and presence, even in the most unpredictable times. Additionally, discover the transformative potential of the Next Level program, a virtual coaching membership designed to apply these principles to elevate your career and life. Together, let's embark on a journey toward becoming our most powerful, centered selves. Visit the purposefulcareer.com/nextlevel to join this empowering community and start making your dreams a reality.

Do you have a question you'd like to have addressed on the podcast? Want to give us some feedback or suggestions? Click here to send us a text.

Follow us on Instagram @thepurposefulcareer.
Learn more about Next Level, our monthly membership at https://www.thepurposefulcareer.com/nextlevel.

What if your mid-career crisis is actually the key to unlocking your true potential? 

In this episode, we tackle the emotional and practical hurdles of significant career changes, with a spotlight on the tech industry's current upheavals. We'll guide you through understanding your feelings, regaining control, and proactively steering your career in a direction that aligns with your evolving passions and goals. Whether you're facing layoffs, relocations, or just dealing with a sense of personal dissatisfaction, we provide five actionable steps to help you navigate your transition confidently.

We'll delve into the complex reality of embracing change in mid-career stages, where the stakes are higher due to responsibilities like mortgages and children. Ignoring your evolving desires can keep you stuck in a seemingly safe but ultimately unfulfilling job. We outline a five-phase sequence of thoughts and actions to help you recognize when it’s time to open a new door, even if it feels daunting. Honesty about the need for change and continuous forward movement are emphasized as key to breaking free from your comfort zone.

Finally, we explore the profound importance of letting go of past ideals to move forward in your career. Using the metaphor of a trapeze artist, we illustrate the necessity of releasing your grip on old paths to embrace new opportunities. By recognizing the need for change, letting go of the past, exploring new possibilities, committing to a new path, and adjusting your self-image, you can navigate your career transition with confidence. If you're ready to find success and fulfillment in your evolving career journey, this episode is your roadmap. For personalized coaching support, don’t hesitate to reach out via email or Instagram.

Do you have a question you'd like to have addressed on the podcast? Want to give us some feedback or suggestions? Click here to send us a text.

Follow us on Instagram @thepurposefulcareer.
Learn more about Next Level, our monthly membership at https://www.thepurposefulcareer.com/nextlevel.

Feeling stuck in midlife? Discover the keys to breaking free from stagnation and reigniting your personal and professional passions. Join me, Carla Hudson, as we  explore the often-overlooked internal issues that keep us trapped. We’ll unpack why a staggering 69% of mid-career individuals feel stagnant, and how neglecting our true desires plays a pivotal role. This episode will guide you towards focusing on inner clarity and addressing core issues rather than seeking superficial changes.

Ever wondered how much time you could reclaim by rethinking everyday tasks? Together, we'll explore how rethinking your time and getting help from other services can free up valuable time each week for more meaningful pursuits. Learn how to better allocate your time and resources to foster productivity and well-being. Additionally, we'll dive into the complex relationship between time management, fear, and personal growth, revealing how busy schedules often hide deeper fears of change and failure. By redefining our self-image and confronting these fears head-on, you'll gain the tools to create a balanced, fulfilling life. Don't miss this chance to transform your midlife journey!

Do you have a question you'd like to have addressed on the podcast? Want to give us some feedback or suggestions? Click here to send us a text.

Follow us on Instagram @thepurposefulcareer.
Learn more about Next Level, our monthly membership at https://www.thepurposefulcareer.com/nextlevel.

Is your mid-career enthusiasm starting to fizzle out? Carla Hudson unpacks the essential steps to "refire" your career between the ages of 39 and 54. Navigate the challenges of the so-called "saggy middle" and discover how to rekindle your professional passion amidst life's increasing responsibilities. Learn how shifting your mindset to actively create opportunities, rather than waiting for them to come your way, can transform your career trajectory. Carla discusses the importance of listening to your inner voice, recognizing when you're plateauing, and taking actionable steps to maintain motivation and growth.

In another segment, we explore why over half of US workers are seeking a career change and the barriers holding them back, such as financial security and the belief that it's too late to learn new skills. Carla encourages listeners to honor their inner voice and explore new opportunities, dispelling the myth that reinvention is not an option mid-career. Through practical examples and insights, you're guided on how to re-evaluate your career path, work on your self-concept, and make choices that truly align with your passions. Tune in to empower yourself to overcome fear, pursue your aspirations, and keep the spark alive in your career journey.

Do you have a question you'd like to have addressed on the podcast? Want to give us some feedback or suggestions? Click here to send us a text.

Follow us on Instagram @thepurposefulcareer.
Learn more about Next Level, our monthly membership at https://www.thepurposefulcareer.com/nextlevel.

What if you could navigate a workplace fraught with distrust and still stay true to your own values and integrity? 

In this episode of the Purposeful Career Podcast, we're discussing practical strategies to thrive in environments where honesty and transparency are often missing. Drawing from my personal experiences and recent coaching sessions, I provide insights into dealing with untrustworthy colleagues and superiors, and handling a company culture that lacks integrity. Through actionable advice and compelling personal stories, you will learn how to address trust concerns without jeopardizing your long-term career goals.

We’ll focus on how to identify and confront feelings of distrust or discomfort in your professional surroundings. By paying attention to specific incidents and patterns, you can discern whether these issues violate company policies or clash with your personal values. Learn how to maintain professionalism and emotional boundaries while navigating unethical behavior, and discover the power of staying true to your ethical standards. By focusing on personal excellence and letting your work speak for itself, you'll be equipped to neutralize negative influences and uphold your high standards in any workplace setting.

Do you have a question you'd like to have addressed on the podcast? Want to give us some feedback or suggestions? Click here to send us a text.

Follow us on Instagram @thepurposefulcareer.
Learn more about Next Level, our monthly membership at https://www.thepurposefulcareer.com/nextlevel.

Ever wondered why happiness dips in your 40s and early 50s before rising again into your 70s? This episode of The Purposeful Career Podcast unpacks the intriguing U-shaped happiness curve, offering a deep dive into the pivotal midlife years. Drawing on the Harvard Study of Adult Development, one of the longest-running studies on happiness, we reveal five key principles that could transform your approach to finding fulfillment. These insights are not just theoretical; they're practical tools that can help you make impactful changes, even if they're small.

Reflecting on my own experiences, I share a poignant story of balancing a demanding new job in a different city while caring for my parents in their final months. This challenging period underscored the need to evaluate how we spend our time and the importance of our relationships. By assessing the people in our lives, we can ensure that our time is spent in ways that genuinely bring us joy and meaning. This episode is a heartfelt invitation to realign your priorities and cherish the relationships that matter most.

As we age, our social needs and relationships evolve, shifting from the bustling activities of youth to more intimate connections. We discuss how contributing to the broader community and finding purpose beyond personal achievements can add layers of meaning to your life. Additionally, we tackle the impact of digital distractions and the power of gratitude, both in expressing it and recognizing it within ourselves. Tune in to discover how being reflective and intentional with your time and relationships can cultivate a life rich with meaning and happiness.

Do you have a question you'd like to have addressed on the podcast? Want to give us some feedback or suggestions? Click here to send us a text.

Follow us on Instagram @thepurposefulcareer.
Learn more about Next Level, our monthly membership at https://www.thepurposefulcareer.com/nextlevel.

Ever wonder why you often say "I don't know" in response to pivotal life questions, even when deep down you do? Join us on an enlightening journey as we uncover the five common reasons behind this self-imposed uncertainty, drawing from personal experiences and a transformative cognitive-based coaching approach. You'll also discover a powerful question that can shatter the cycle of indecision and bring clarity to your true desires. Plus, stay tuned for exciting updates, including potential guest interviews and the introduction of video content to enhance your podcast experience.

Reflecting on personal and career challenges, we explore how the fear of making decisions is rooted in past failures and anxieties about the future. For new college graduates facing career choices, the phrase "I don't know" often acts as a safe harbor to avoid risks. Together, we'll dive into strategies to overcome this mindset and embrace confident decision-making, empowering you to move forward in life with assurance.

We also tackle the fear of truly knowing oneself and the societal pressures that cloud our judgment. Through a simple yet revealing exercise, you'll learn how to identify your hidden truths and explore your options without immediate commitment. Finally, we introduce the Next Level virtual coaching program, designed to help you apply these insights to your career and personal life. Elevate your aspirations and join a community dedicated to achieving new heights. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to turn your dreams into reality!

Do you have a question you'd like to have addressed on the podcast? Want to give us some feedback or suggestions? Click here to send us a text.

Follow us on Instagram @thepurposefulcareer.
Learn more about Next Level, our monthly membership at https://www.thepurposefulcareer.com/nextlevel.

Feeling stuck in a rut or craving a deeper sense of fulfillment? Discover why stepping out of your comfort zone is the key to living a richer, more meaningful life. Reflecting on a staggering statistic—that 98% of people remain within their comfort zones—we explore how embracing discomfort can lead to profound self-discovery and personal growth. From the pivotal transitions of early life to the stakes of midlife, learn why continuously pushing your boundaries is essential for ongoing development.

We'll break down the importance of taking risks to uncover hidden passions and reignite inspiration, especially as we navigate midlife. Fear of failure is a common roadblock, but we’ll reframe it as an invaluable learning opportunity. By confronting new challenges, you can unearth hidden talents and skills without abandoning your current life—providing continuous forward momentum that enriches your experiences and broadens your horizons.

Finally, we'll discuss the transformative power of reshaping your self-image and rejecting the notion that it’s too late for change. Small, incremental steps out of your comfort zone can lead to significant personal growth over time. Plus, I introduce you to Next Level, a monthly membership program designed to support your journey toward purposeful change and a more empowered life. Join us for daily inspiration and support as you take those first steps toward a more fulfilling, enriched existence.

Do you have a question you'd like to have addressed on the podcast? Want to give us some feedback or suggestions? Click here to send us a text.

Follow us on Instagram @thepurposefulcareer.
Learn more about Next Level, our monthly membership at https://www.thepurposefulcareer.com/nextlevel.

Have you ever found yourself in a stressful situation where simply being told to "calm down" felt impossible? In this episode, we promise to equip you with neuroscience-based strategies for emotional self-regulation, going beyond mere platitudes. We break down how different parts of your brain react under stress and offer practical techniques to regain control during triggering moments. Imagine being able to handle difficult coworkers or major life challenges with a newfound sense of composure and effectiveness.

Emotional self-awareness is the cornerstone of managing our reactions and responses. By introducing methods such as pausing before reacting and performing thought downloads, we guide you on how to assess situations more objectively and avoid letting biases drive your actions. Learn how to differentiate between true thoughts and emotional reactions, and discover how these insights can prevent conflicts from escalating, providing you with a more grounded approach to problem-solving.

Balancing caregiving duties with a demanding professional life can seem like an impossible task. Through personal stories and practical advice, we'll show you how to anchor yourself to core values and use empowering thoughts to navigate these overwhelming periods. Whether you’re dealing with canceled flights and long drives or high-pressure meetings, you'll gain valuable tools for maintaining emotional control. From sensory toolkits to simple hacks, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you stay composed and confident, no matter what life throws at you. Tune in and transform the way you handle stress for a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Do you have a question you'd like to have addressed on the podcast? Want to give us some feedback or suggestions? Click here to send us a text.

Follow us on Instagram @thepurposefulcareer.
Learn more about Next Level, our monthly membership at https://www.thepurposefulcareer.com/nextlevel.