Career Pivots

Your next chapter deserves intention
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Career Pivots is where career disruption becomes your competitive advantage. Every month, host Serena Forde sits down with professionals who've successfully reinvented their careers not by luck, but by strategy. They share the real story: the missteps, the breakthroughs, and the decisions that made the difference. Whether you're facing an unexpected layoff, feeling stuck in a role that no longer fits, or ready to chase something bigger, this podcast gives you the playbook. Real transitions. Real tactics. Real results. Because your next chapter deserves intention serenaforde.substack.com

Episodes

  1. Sep 2

    Dare, Dream & Pivot

    Guests: Serena & Anastasia Forde Content Type: Interview Primary Goal: Educational ✨ Episode Summary In this heartfelt episode, Serena opens up about her inspiring career journey — from early roles in retail and healthcare to navigating layoffs, embracing reinvention, and stepping into national leadership. Joined by her daughter Anastasia, the conversation becomes a powerful family reflection on resilience, intentional living, and the courage required to pivot. Together, they explore how education, mentorship, and daring to dream can shape a fulfilling career path. 🔑 Keywords career pivots • resilience • leadership • healthcare • podcasting • personal growth • career change • success stories • family insights 🎧 Key Topics Covered * Serena’s early career beginnings in retail and healthcare * How layoffs shaped her perspective and sparked pivotal transitions * The role of education and continuous learning in career advancement * Launching Career Pivots as a platform for connection and growth * The influence of family, mentorship, and support systems * Intentional living and designing a career aligned with purpose 💡 Major Takeaways * Resilience fuels reinvention — setbacks can become strategic turning points. * Your network is a lifeline during transitions; lean on mentors and supporters. * Continuous learning unlocks new opportunities and keeps you adaptable. * Dream boldly and take risks — fulfillment often lives on the other side of fear. * Every pivot is a chance to realign with your goals and values. 🧭 Key Frameworks Discussed * Resilience in career pivots * Networking and support systems * Continuous learning and adaptability * Intentional living and goal setting 🎙️ Sound Bites * “Even if I do fail, success could be coming right behind that.” * “You miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take.” * “People should lean on their networks and have clarifying conversations.” ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 — Introduction and Serena’s career overview 02:10 — Serena’s childhood and early career in healthcare 04:11 — The importance of education and career growth 07:45 — Serena’s experience with layoffs and pivots 10:23 — Transition to national leadership and travel 12:10 — Reflections on future career and podcasting 14:43 — Starting the Career Pivots podcast 17:20 — The journey of podcasting and personal growth 20:47 — Family insights and the value of perseverance 24:00 — Encouragement to dare, dream, and pivot 28:30 — Closing thoughts and season wrap-up Thanks for listening! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit serenaforde.substack.com

  2. Aug 26

    Sabbatical Season: Turning Layoffs into Strategic Resets

    Summary Wesley Kim shares his experience navigating multiple layoffs in the pharmaceutical industry, transforming setbacks into strategic resets, and embracing layoffs as opportunities for growth and reinvention. keywords layoffs, career pivot, mindset, pharmaceutical industry, resilience, sabbatical, upskilling, networking, career reinvention key topics * The emotional impact of layoffs and how to process them * Wesley’s personal experience with multiple layoffs in pharma * The importance of mindset and resilience in career pivots * Strategies for financial stability during unemployment * Creating a sabbatical plan to upskill and reflect * Networking and volunteering as tools for career growth * The evolving nature of careers and the need for agility * Lessons learned about industry-specific layoffs in pharma sound bites * “Use the time and don’t let the time use you” * “You use that time. Don’t let that time use you” * “A pivot doesn’t happen overnight. It happens in quiet moments” Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Wesley Kim and the episode’s focus 02:01 Wesley’s first layoff experience and initial reactions 03:56 The importance of mindset and quick recovery after layoffs 05:55 Learning from multiple layoffs in the pharmaceutical industry 07:56 The shift from shock to strategic thinking about layoffs 09:58 The concept of layoffs as a forced sabbatical 11:57 Planning and using layoffs for personal growth and upskilling 14:01 Practical steps for those recently laid off 15:53 Creating a structured sabbatical plan 18:02 Maintaining discipline and goals during a sabbatical 19:52 Networking, volunteering, and exploring passions during unemployment 21:51 Industry-specific insights for pharma professionals 24:05 Advice for those in the messy middle of layoffs 25:59 The importance of mindset and continuous learning 27:49 Exploring passions and side projects during career breaks 29:59 Final thoughts: resilience, mindset, and next steps Thanks for listening! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit serenaforde.substack.com

  3. Aug 19

    Overcoming fear and taking action

    Career Pivots: Interview Content Package Guest: Vanessa Morales Primary Goal: Inspiration and guidance for career pivots and real estate investing Episode Summary Vanessa Morales shares her inspiring journey from finance to nonprofit leadership and into real estate investing. Her story highlights how mindset shifts, volunteering, and strategic thinking can unlock new opportunities and help individuals overcome fear during major career transitions. She offers honest insights into building confidence, navigating challenges as a person of color in real estate, and the role of community and mentorship in achieving financial independence and personal growth. Keywords career pivot, real estate investing, mindset shift, volunteering, financial independence, strategic leadership, personal growth, overcoming fear, community, mentorship Key Topics Covered * Vanessa’s transition from finance to nonprofit and eventually real estate * How volunteering creates unexpected career pathways * Mindset shifts required for successful pivots * Lessons learned from her first real estate investment * The importance of community, mentorship, and strategic leadership in wealth building Takeaways * Volunteering can open unexpected doors in your career. * Assessing transferable skills is crucial during a pivot. * Confidence grows when you surround yourself with people who are already where you want to be. * Fear of the unknown is a universal barrier — but it’s navigable. * Strategic thinking enhances success in real estate and beyond. Sound Bites * “Your community shapes your success.” * “You need to be around those you want to become.” * “Don’t let fear keep you stuck.” Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Vanessa Morales’ inspiring journey 01:42 Vanessa’s transition from finance to nonprofit 03:20 Overcoming fear of the unknown during career change 04:09 The importance of assessing transferable skills 06:33 Volunteering as a pathway to new opportunities 09:19 Vanessa’s entry into real estate investing 10:34 Surprising challenges in real estate for people of color 12:16 Lessons learned from first property purchase 14:31 Advice for those feeling stuck in their pivot 15:38 Building confidence through community and mentorship 20:01 Vanessa’s honest why for real estate 21:06 The role of strategic leadership in wealth building 22:08 Final words on faith, mindset, and taking action This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit serenaforde.substack.com

  4. Aug 12

    Redirection is not failure

    Guest: Sadisha Brown Episode Type: Interview Primary Goal: Educational Episode Summary In this episode, Sudecia Brown shares her remarkable journey of personal transformation — from pre‑med student to educator, minister, spiritual healer, and author. Through resilience, faith, and deep self‑reflection, she reframed her setbacks into powerful redirections. Sudecia opens up about her healing work, her journal Radiant Reflections, and the practices that helped her rebuild her identity and purpose. Her story is a testament to how self‑discovery can unlock a fulfilling life and career. Keywords personal transformation, resilience, spiritual growth, career pivot, self-discovery, healing, Radiant Reflections, life lessons Key Topics Covered * Sudeciaa Brown’s transition from pre‑med to education and ministry * How faith and resilience shaped her response to setbacks * The creation and impact of Radiant Reflections * Redirection as a natural part of life’s imperfect journey * Practical tools for self‑assessment and personal growth * The importance of silence and reflection * Using the “traffic light” analogy to navigate challenges * Upcoming projects: children’s literature and spiritual warfare books Top Takeaways * Perseverance and openness fuel transformation. * Reframing your story creates new opportunities. * Silence and self‑assessment are essential for growth. * Setbacks are often redirections, not failures. * Your story can inspire someone else’s breakthrough. Sound Bites * “Don’t sweat the small stuff.” * “You’re never gonna fall. That’s a misconception.” * “As long as you move forward with the information, you’re on your way.” Resources · Radiant Reflection website Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sudecia Brown’s Journey 01:58 From Fisk University to Ministry and Education 03:51 Overcoming Academic and Personal Challenges 05:47 The Power of Reframing and Redirection 08:00 Transition into Health, Wellness, and Spiritual Transformation 09:53 Healing Through Faith, Reflection, and Self‑Discovery 11:46 Practical Steps for Self‑Assessment and Growth 15:09 Radiant Reflections: A Journal of Self‑Discovery 17:01 The Stacking Stones Workshop and Moving Forward 19:02 Upcoming Projects and Future Endeavors 20:59 Advice for Those at a Crossroads and Facing Disappointment 23:07 Final Thoughts and Inspiration This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit serenaforde.substack.com

  5. Aug 5

    Age Is Just a Number — Beverly Cohen on Reinvention at Any Stage of Life

    Episode Type: Interview Episode Summary Beverly Cohen shares her journey of reinvention, overcoming barriers related to age, and embracing lifelong learning. Her story highlights that it’s never too late to pursue new passions, career shifts, and personal growth — proving that age is just a number when it comes to chasing your dreams. Key Topics Covered * Reinvention at any age * Overcoming barriers related to age * Lifelong learning and education * The role of faith in overcoming challenges * Caregiving and personal growth * Mentorship and support systems * The importance of soft skills and experience * Volunteering as a pathway to new opportunities * Challenging limiting beliefs about age * Future plans and passions Memorable Quotes “Age shouldn’t be a restriction as long as you’re in good health.” “Your body ages, but your spirit is what truly matters.” “It’s never too late to pursue your dreams.” Chapters Keywords / Tags age is just a number, reinvention, lifelong learning, career change, personal growth, caregiving, motivation, age and wisdom, professional development, life transitions Career Pivots Podcast — Inspiration and education about age and reinvention. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit serenaforde.substack.com

  6. Jul 29

    The Power of Community Support in Personal Growth

    Career Pivots Podcast · Interview Show Notes Zedeka Poindexter joins Serena to talk about voice, community, and why the crucial conversations about support are worth having early. Content Type: Interview Goal: Educational Guest: Zedeka Poindexter Host Serena Forde, MS Guest Zedeka Poindexter Episode Summary In this episode, we explore the importance of your voice’s power, community support, and communication in personal and professional growth, featuring insights from Zedeka Poindexter and Serena Forde. Key Topics * The importance of discussing support needs with your community * How to have crucial conversations about partnership and support * The impact of community support on personal and professional growth * Strategies for effective communication in relationships * Real-life examples of support conversations Sound Bites Having a real conversation with your community about support. Support looks different for everyone. Early conversations prevent misunderstandings. Key Takeaways * Having open conversations about support can strengthen relationships. * Discussing support needs early prevents misunderstandings. * Community and partnership require ongoing communication. * Clear communication about expectations is vital for success. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to community support and communication 05:48 Zedeka Poindexter shares her experience with support conversations 05:54 Strategies for having effective support conversations Resources * Writer’s Block — Nebraska Public Media * Career Pivots Podcast — serenaforde.substack.com Connect with Zedeka Poindexter Nebraska Writers Collaborative ↗ LinkedIn ↗ Listen & Subscribe Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music Keywords Community Support Communication Personal Growth Professional Development Partnership “Your next chapter deserves intention.” — Serena Forde, MS · Career Pivots Podcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit serenaforde.substack.com

    The Power of Community Support in Personal Growth

  7. Jul 22

    10 Years to Become an Overnight Success: Corneal Westbrooks’ Journey

    Guest: Corneal Westbrooks Episode Overview In this inspiring conversation, Corneal Westbrooks opens up about the long, winding path behind his “overnight success.” His story is a masterclass in patience, perseverance, and the power of learning from every misstep. If you’re navigating a pivot, rebuilding after setbacks, or simply trying to stay committed to your vision, this episode reminds you that meaningful success rarely happens fast — but it always happens intentionally. “It took time but it eventually paid off.” “I have zero regrets about any of the decisions I made.” What You’ll Learn * The real timeline behind success — why the journey often takes longer than expected. * How patience becomes a strategic advantage in career transitions and entrepreneurial pursuits. * The role of mistakes as essential learning tools rather than setbacks. * Long‑term success strategies that keep you grounded, focused, and resilient. Key Topics * Corneal Westbrooks’ career journey and pivotal moments * The discipline of perseverance * Embracing failures as fuel * Building a long‑view strategy for sustainable success Top Takeaways * Success often takes longer than expected — patience is key. * Mistakes are not roadblocks; they’re data. * Persistence pays off, even when progress feels slow. Episode Chapters * 00:00 — Introduction to Corneal Westbrooks’ journey * 37:05 — The humorous truth: “10 years to overnight success” * 37:16 — Learning from mistakes and releasing regrets Resources * Career Pivots Podcast — Career Pivots Link * Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music * Guest Links: · Caleb the Great: Book link · Corneal Westbrooks: LinkedIn This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit serenaforde.substack.com

    10 Years to Become an Overnight Success: Corneal Westbrooks’ Journey

  8. Jul 15

    Wake Up to Your Dreams: Making Your Passion Your Purpose

    I need to hear from you. If Career Pivots has landed for you — if something a guest said stopped you mid-commute, made you rethink a decision, or finally gave words to something you’ve been feeling — tell me. Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Amazon, or Spotify ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Drop a comment below or on Substack Find me on LinkedIn and let’s talk about it Every review helps someone new find this show. Every comment tells me what’s resonating. And every share puts Career Pivots in front of someone who might be in their own messy middle right now. You don’t have to have it all figured out to have something worth saying. What’s one thing from a recent episode that stayed with you? 👇 Drop it below. #CareerPivots #Podcast #NewPodcast #Becoming #CareerReinvention #IntentionalLivingShow Notes This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit serenaforde.substack.com

    Wake Up to Your Dreams: Making Your Passion Your Purpose

  9. Jul 15

    The Alarm Clock of Destiny

    I need to hear from you. If Career Pivots has landed for you — if something a guest said stopped you mid-commute, made you rethink a decision, or finally gave words to something you’ve been feeling — tell me. Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Amazon, or Spotify ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Drop a comment below or on Substack Find me on LinkedIn and let’s talk about it Every review helps someone new find this show. Every comment tells me what’s resonating. And every share puts Career Pivots in front of someone who might be in their own messy middle right now. You don’t have to have it all figured out to have something worth saying. What’s one thing from a recent episode that stayed with you? 👇 Drop it below. #CareerPivots #Podcast #NewPodcast #Becoming #CareerReinvention #IntentionalLivingShow Notes This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit serenaforde.substack.com

    The Alarm Clock of Destiny

  10. Jul 15

    The Power of Strategic Pivots: Clarity Over Reaction

    If Career Pivots has landed for you — if something a guest said stopped you mid-commute, made you rethink a decision, or finally gave words to something you’ve been feeling — tell me. Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Amazon, or Spotify ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Drop a comment below or on Substack Find me on LinkedIn and let’s talk about it Every review helps someone new find this show. Every comment tells me what’s resonating. And every share puts Career Pivots in front of someone who might be in their own messy middle right now. You don’t have to have it all figured out to have something worth saying. What’s one thing from a recent episode that stayed with you? 👇 Drop it below. #CareerPivots #Podcast #NewPodcast #Becoming #CareerReinvention #IntentionalLivingShow Notes This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit serenaforde.substack.com

    The Power of Strategic Pivots: Clarity Over Reaction

  11. Jul 1

    Career Pivots

    Something I’ve Been Building in the Quiet There’s a conversation I keep having. With the friend who got laid off and doesn’t want to admit she’s relieved. With the colleague who’s crushing it on paper but feels hollow inside. With the woman who’s been whispering “there has to be more than this” for years but keeps talking herself out of doing anything about it. I’ve had that conversation. I am that conversation. That’s why I built Career Pivots. Career Pivots launches July 15th. And I want you to be there from the beginning. Every episode, I sit down with professionals who’ve successfully reinvented their careers — not by luck, but by strategy. They share the real story: the missteps, the breakthroughs, and the decisions that made the difference. No glossy highlight reels. No “I just believed in myself and it worked out.” The actual playbook. Here’s a taste of who we’re starting with: Shabaura Perryman was laid off. Twice. Each time felt like more than a job loss — it was, as she puts it, an identity interruption. She didn’t just survive it. She built Onset DNA, wrote a book called Severed, and came up with a philosophy she calls Thrive Unhired. Her words have been living in my head ever since we recorded: “Don’t let panic design your future — let clarity design it.” Steve Schultz left a career in healthcare to build Foodzee, a gamified platform helping kids develop healthy eating habits. What I loved about Steve is that he didn’t wait until he had it all figured out. He started small. He talked to people. He let purpose lead the way — and the rest followed. Coach Vuyanzi Rodman — TEDx Speaker, Life Coach, and the woman who introduced me to the concept of “the alarm clock of destiny.” That feeling when you’re standing at the crossroads and something inside you is saying this ain’t it — even when everything looks fine on the outside. She gave our listeners a framework for what to do when that alarm goes off. I’ve thought about it almost every day since. These are not famous people. They’re people who faced real disruption — layoffs, identity crises, that quiet suffocating feeling of a role that no longer fits — and came out the other side with intention. That’s what this show is about. Real transitions. Real tactics. Real results. July 15th. Mark it. If you’ve been waiting for a sign that it’s time to build your next chapter — consider this it. And if you know someone who needs to hear this right now — the one who’s been staring at their laptop wondering if this is it — share this with them. Because your next chapter deserves intention. — Serena This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit serenaforde.substack.com

    Career Pivots
  • 11 Episodes

About

Career Pivots is where career disruption becomes your competitive advantage. Every month, host Serena Forde sits down with professionals who've successfully reinvented their careers not by luck, but by strategy. They share the real story: the missteps, the breakthroughs, and the decisions that made the difference. Whether you're facing an unexpected layoff, feeling stuck in a role that no longer fits, or ready to chase something bigger, this podcast gives you the playbook. Real transitions. Real tactics. Real results. Because your next chapter deserves intention serenaforde.substack.com

Information

  • Creator
    Your next chapter deserves intention
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    11
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Serena Forde
  • Show Website
    Career Pivots