The Pivot Playbook

Kelly Riley
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Inspiring Stories of Change and Stepping Into Your Purpose

Episodes

  1. 05/06/2025

    No Plan , No Backup, No Problem: Brett Hooper's Wild Career Ride

    In this episode of Pivot Playbook, Kelly Riley welcomes industrial designer and serial career pivoter Brett Hooper. From teaching at Carleton University to designing autonomous vehicles, tanks, and luxury products, Brett shares how he navigated major career shifts without fear or a plan. Learn how he turned creative passion into a multi-decade career, why he believes personality outshines raw talent, and how embracing uncertainty led to the most fulfilling work of his life. Brett’s story is packed with actionable insights, laughs, and inspiration for anyone thinking about making a bold move. Plus, hear his thoughts on staying creative and why he believes happiness happens in the doing. Tune in and get ready to rethink what success really means! Main Topics + Timestamps: (00:30) Meet Brett Hooper: Barber Shop Memories and Lifelong Client (01:13) Becoming an Industrial Designer: From Animation Dreams to Design Reality (04:01) Career Timeline: Freelance Graphics to Gourmet Food to Academia (08:21) The First Big Quit: No Plan, No Backup, No Regrets (12:20) What Drives Brett: Boredom, Creativity, and Gut Instinct (16:00) Handling Uncertainty and Fear During Pivots (24:51) Personality vs. Talent: Why Charm Matters More Than You Think (26:54) Wild Projects: Tanks, Autonomous Vehicles, and More (43:37) Advice for Pivoting: Why Courage is Just Action Under Fear (49:38) Future Plans: Teaching, Side Hustles, and Continuing to Surprise Himself About Brett Hooper: Brett Hooper is a seasoned industrial designer with 26+ years of experience across industries including automotive, defense, and consumer products. A former professor at Carleton University, he has designed everything from tanks and delivery vehicles to luxury speakers. His work has helped shape iconic brands and groundbreaking innovations. Learn more at Studio63.ca Follow Brett's design insights on X @Brett_Designer. Check out his website: https://bretthooper.com/ Enjoyed Brett's wild career ride? Don’t miss out on more transformative conversations! 🎙️Subscribe to The Pivot Playbook Podcast: Stay inspired with expert insights and real-life stories of bold career and life pivots. Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen. Explore Kelly’s Resources: All things Kelly: www.kellyriley.ca Ready to Pivot? Join the Pivot Success Hub Join the Pivot Playbook Collective Support the Show: Buy Me a Coffee

    1h 1m

  2. 02/04/2025

    From Burnout to Breakthrough: How Patrice Bobo-Miles Pivoted from 26 Years in Mortgages to a Life of Purpose & Peace

    Episode Overview In this episode, I sit down with Patrice Bobo-Miles, a former mortgage loan originator who spent 26 successful years in a high-pressure career—only to realize she was burning out. Patrice shares how family tragedies forced her to reevaluate her life, walk away from a lucrative job, and ultimately discover a new path as a life coach. Now, she’s found the peace and purpose she didn’t even realize she was missing. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or curious about making a big change, Patrice’s story is sure to inspire you to make your own breakthrough. What You’ll Hear in This Episode 1. Life-Changing Loss & the Wake-Up Call • How Patrice navigated the sudden illnesses and passing of both parents in under a year • Why her grief pushed her to pause and reexamine everything 2. High-Pressure Career Realities • The hidden toll of being “always on” in the mortgage industry • How burnout can creep in—even if you’re successful and passionate at first 3. The Moment of Truth • Patrice’s conversation with her husband about leaving a thriving career • Overcoming fears of lost income and redefining success on her own terms 4. Building a New Life & Business • Finding confidence and fighting off imposter syndrome in a new profession • How her personal coaching and therapy support system helped her unlock clarity • The exciting projects she’s launched since pivoting—like her women’s summit and an affirmations journal 5. Advice for Pivots & Reinvention • Why setting boundaries, betting on yourself, and asking for help are non-negotiables • Seeing “mistakes” as a chance to grow stronger and more aligned with who you truly are Notable Quotes • “I really felt like that circus act where you have 12 plates spinning—you sprint to keep them from crashing.” (Patrice on her hectic life in the mortgage industry) • “There was a moment when I asked myself, ‘Why not me? Why can’t I do this?’” (Patrice on finally taking the leap into life coaching) • “If you’re not willing to bet on yourself, why would anyone else?” (Patrice on the importance of self-belief and personal investment) Connect with Patrice Bobo-Miles • Website: MilesAheadLifeCoaching.com • Facebook: @PatriceBoboMiles • Social-Audio Apps: Clubhouse & Chatter (search for her rooms/clubs under “EmpowHer'd”) • Podcast: Funny Sexy Wise (available wherever you listen to podcasts) Join the Conversation • Follow Me (Kelly) on Instagram: @coachkellyriley • Share Your Pivot Story: Have you faced a major career or life pivot? Email me at podcast@kellyriley.ca to let me know how you’re overcoming burnout and finding new purpose. • Subscribe & Leave a Review: If Patrice’s story resonated, please take a moment to rate and review the show. It helps our community grow and reach others who need this message. Thanks for listening! Tune in next time for more authentic conversations about career pivots, personal growth, and finding the spark beyond burnout. Remember, it’s never too late to redefine success on your own terms.

    42 min

  3. 12/17/2024

    Trusting Your Gut: From Corporate to Creative Freedom - Sophie's Journey

    What happens when you leave behind the safe path and follow your dreams? Kelly Riley sits down with Sophie Fortier, a wedding photographer and creative entrepreneur, to discuss her daring pivot from a restrictive corporate career to a life of freedom and artistry. Sophie details her methodical preparation, the courage it took to leave her job earlier than planned, and the lessons she’s learned about rest, balance, and trusting the process. Now thriving as a destination wedding photographer and avid traveler, Sophie shares insights into navigating fear, building confidence, and creating a life aligned with your passions. This episode is a must-listen for anyone contemplating a major life change or seeking inspiration to pursue their dreams. Main Topics & Timestamps ​[00:30] Introduction to Sophie Fortier: Kelly introduces Sophie, the creative force behind her branding photography.​​[02:12] Sophie’s Corporate Beginnings: From retail to photography at Giant Tiger, Sophie recounts her early career and frustrations with the corporate world.​​[07:54] The Leap of Faith: Sophie’s decision to quit her job six months ahead of schedule and her process for planning the transition.​​[14:30] Building Confidence as a Photographer: Overcoming self-doubt and finding joy in creative freedom.​​[24:13] Life After the Pivot: Redefining work-life balance, embracing chaos, and thriving as an entrepreneur.​​[37:40] Traveling for Work and Play: Sophie’s love for travel, her adventures in Europe and Panama, and how photography has opened doors worldwide. ​[46:38] Advice for Aspiring Pivoters: Sophie’s take on trusting intuition, embracing fear, and staying open to life’s possibilities. About Sophie Fortier Sophie Fortier is an internationally recognized wedding and branding photographer based in Canada. Known for her artistic eye and vibrant storytelling, Sophie travels the world capturing life’s most cherished moments. When she’s not behind the lens, Sophie shares her travel adventures through her Instagram account, @ChasingGildedSkies, and is a passionate advocate for living boldly and creatively. ​Website: sophiefortier.com​Instagram: @sophiefortierphotography | @chasinggildedskies​Blush Boss Co.: @blushbossco Enjoyed this episode? Don’t miss out on more transformative conversations! 🎙️ Subscribe to The Pivot Playbook Podcast: Stay inspired with expert insights and real-life stories of bold career and life pivots. Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen. Explore Kelly’s Resources: ​All things Kelly: www.kellyriley.ca​Ready for clarity? Book a free call: Clarity Call​Join the Pivot Playbook Collective Membership: Pivot Playbook Collective​Support the Show: Buy Me a Coffee

    53 min
  4. Amanda's Journey: From Struggles to Success

    12/03/2024

    Amanda's Journey: From Struggles to Success

    In this engaging conversation, Amanda Yoa, known as Philly's hype woman, shares her inspiring journey of personal growth and transformation. From battling depression and anxiety to embracing her authentic self, Amanda discusses the pivotal moments that led her to become a successful brand strategist and podcaster. She emphasizes the importance of community, authenticity, and self-investment in achieving personal and professional goals. Amanda's story serves as a powerful reminder that embracing change, even when it's scary, can lead to a fulfilling and impactful life.

    35 min

  5. 11/19/2024

    Embracing Change: The Power of a Pivot

    In this conversation, Kelly Riley interviews Michelle Glockling, who shares her inspiring journey of pivoting from a decade-long career in healthcare to starting her own bookkeeping business. Michelle discusses the challenges she faced during this transition, the importance of networking, and how she found freedom and fulfillment in her new role. She emphasizes the significance of building trust with clients, the value of community support, and the lessons learned along the way. Michelle encourages others to embrace change, pursue their passions, and not be afraid to make mistakes as they navigate their own paths.

    53 min

  6. 11/16/2024

    Welcome to the Pivot Playbook

    Ever wonder what it takes to make a significant change in life? Join us as we explore the journeys of those who’ve stepped out of their comfort zones to follow their passions.

    1 min

Trailer

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About

Inspiring Stories of Change and Stepping Into Your Purpose

Information

  • Creator
    Kelly Riley
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    6
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Kelly Riley
  • Show Website
    The Pivot Playbook