Switch, Pivot or Quit

Ahyiana Angel
  • 4.7 (314)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Switch, Pivot or Quit

One of the top business podcasts in a Google search. As your host who has been there and done that (P.S. my name is Ahyiana Angel) I'm providing an intimate look at navigating career transitions on your own terms. This pod is for the person seeking encouragement, inspiration + change in a life filled with demands on who you should be. I'm here for you when you're asking yourself, "What's next?!" I speak with experts, professionals, and day-to-day doers who have learned best practices through their journey with personal and professional development work.  My journey consists of having successfully switched careers from a sports entertainment publicist to a published author and now I run my own podcast production company (Mayzie Media), and give motivational talks! My goal is and will always be to provide helpful advice when you're deciding if you need to Switch, Pivot, or Quit®.  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ahyiana.angel/

  1. MAY 25

    Why Your Next Career Breakthrough Requires Blank Space with Sabina Nawaz

    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

    46 min

  2. MAY 18

    From Content Creator to Corporate_Moving Abroad and Back with Paige Mariah

    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.

    29 min

  3. MAY 11

    Vanessa Simmons on Wellness, Self-Care, and Businesses Evolution After Pastry

    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.

    25 min

  4. MAY 4

    Interviewing Oprah Via Bold Pivots - Dominique B. Fluker on Switching Careers, J-School, and Building her brand

    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.

    44 min

  5. APR 27

    Navigating Your Career Path with Whitney Faires - Authenticity, Leadership, and The Excellence Equation

    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

    36 min

  6. APR 20

    You Can't Skip the Process

    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.

    9 min

  7. APR 13

    Mastering Self-Leadership & Career Growth with Elizabeth Lotardo

    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

    39 min

  8. APR 6

    The Giving/Receiving Imbalance - When You're Always the Resource

    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

    27 min
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Hosts & Guests

4.7
out of 5
314 Ratings

About

One of the top business podcasts in a Google search. As your host who has been there and done that (P.S. my name is Ahyiana Angel) I'm providing an intimate look at navigating career transitions on your own terms. This pod is for the person seeking encouragement, inspiration + change in a life filled with demands on who you should be. I'm here for you when you're asking yourself, "What's next?!" I speak with experts, professionals, and day-to-day doers who have learned best practices through their journey with personal and professional development work.  My journey consists of having successfully switched careers from a sports entertainment publicist to a published author and now I run my own podcast production company (Mayzie Media), and give motivational talks! My goal is and will always be to provide helpful advice when you're deciding if you need to Switch, Pivot, or Quit®.  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ahyiana.angel/

Information

  • Creator
    Ahyiana Angel
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2025
  • Episodes
    380
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Mayzie Media
  • Show Website
    Switch, Pivot or Quit

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