Why I Left

Brian Aquart
  • 4.9 (19)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Why I Left tells real stories from real people about the bold career moves that changed their lives.  Hosted by Brian Aquart, the show goes beyond resignations to uncover courage, clarity, and growth in the face of change. Each episode offers honest reflections, lessons learned, and practical insights for anyone considering a pivot, navigating uncertainty, or seeking inspiration for their next chapter. We don’t talk about resignations enough, this podcast makes sure we do.

  1. I Did It My Way - Craig the Barber

    08/05/2025

    I Did It My Way - Craig the Barber

    Send a message to the show On the Season 4 finale of Why I Left, Brian sits down with Craig Whitely, better known as Craig the Barber, who shares his inspiring journey from the world of finance to becoming an award-winning barber and founder of Burke Avenue, a premium mens grooming line. Discover how a passion for barbering, ignited by a simple gift from his father, led Craig to leap from bankings rigid structure to entrepreneurship, building a trusted brand recognized by Mens Health.  Craig opens up about overcoming fear, the power of intentionality, and the importance of listening to consumers. Whether youre eyeing a major career pivot or striving to build a brand that truly stands out, this episode delivers invaluable lessons on resilience, personal fulfillment, and doing it your way. Dont miss Craigs practical advice for reinventing your career and thriving in a competitive industry! Enjoy! Stay connected with Guest Website: https://www.burkeavenue.com/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/craigthebarber  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigthebarber/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craigthebarber/  Stay connected with Why I Left  Visit: https://www.WhyILeft.co  Subscribe:   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMgQI4X0kEp8-o7Z9D3tRmg  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-i-left/id1613667100  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TE4Y626idPxNeewpCG6Ef  Follow:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialwhyileft/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/why-i-left/  Connect with Brian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianaquart/   Rate us 5 stars and share feedback: Your story deserves to be told with clarity and impact. That’s why I created Storyline by Kingswood to help executives, founders, and rising leaders align their presence with their next chapter. Kingswood Forest Helping leaders and organizations grow with clarity, confidence, and powerful storytelling. Support the show

    40 min
  2. Igniting Leaders - Jordana Cole

    07/29/2025

    Igniting Leaders - Jordana Cole

    Send a message to the show Brian sits down with Jordana Cole, founder of Ignited LLC. Jordana shares her courageous decision to leave behind a successful corporate career and follow her passion for igniting leadership and transformation. Discover how her trailblazing path, from breaking barriers in her hometown to leading learning and development initiatives, helped her find her true calling.  Jordana reveals the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, her philosophy on intentional, everyday leadership, and the importance of aligning passion with profession. Plus, get a sneak peek at her upcoming leadership book and actionable advice for anyone considering a bold career move. Dont miss this episode filled with insights, real stories, and practical tips to help you spark positive change in your journey! Enjoy! Stay connected with Guest Website: https://ignitedbyjordana.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordana-cole-mapp-pcc-a8445a8/ Stay connected with Why I Left  Visit: https://www.WhyILeft.co  Subscribe:   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMgQI4X0kEp8-o7Z9D3tRmg  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-i-left/id1613667100  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TE4Y626idPxNeewpCG6Ef  Follow:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialwhyileft/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/why-i-left/  Connect with Brian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianaquart/   Rate us 5 stars and share feedback: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-i-left/id1613667100  Why I Left is happy to be part of the Alive Podcast Network, which offers a diverse range of shows featuring powerful storytelling, insightful conversations, and thoug Your story deserves to be told with clarity and impact. That’s why I created Storyline by Kingswood to help executives, founders, and rising leaders align their presence with their next chapter. Kingswood Forest Helping leaders and organizations grow with clarity, confidence, and powerful storytelling. Support the show

    51 min
  3. Trust, Trauma & Leadership - Lori Swartz Eberly

    07/22/2025

    Trust, Trauma & Leadership - Lori Swartz Eberly

    Send a message to the show Brian sits down with Lori Eberly, founder of Radius Executive Coaching and co-author of "F*****y." Lori shares her compelling journey from hospice social worker to leadership development expert, revealing how grief, transition, and trust shape meaningful career change. Discover practical, neuroscience-backed strategies for navigating loss in your professional life, building resilience, and transforming team culture.  Loris trauma-informed approach provides actionable insights on overcoming toxic workplace habits and fostering authentic connections. Whether you're considering your next career move or leading through change, don't miss this conversation packed with wisdom, humor, and real-life advice for making bold, intentional decisions. Check out the episode for inspiration to trust yourself, grieve what you leave behind, and step forward with clarity. Enjoy! Stay connected with Guest Website: https://www.radiusecd.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-swartz-eberly-msw-lcsw-licsw-74550964/  Stay connected with Why I Left  Visit: https://www.WhyILeft.co  Subscribe:   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMgQI4X0kEp8-o7Z9D3tRmg  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-i-left/id1613667100  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TE4Y626idPxNeewpCG6Ef  Follow:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialwhyileft/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/why-i-left/  Connect with Brian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianaquart/   Rate us 5 stars and share feedback: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-i-left/id1613667100  Why I Left is happy to be part of the Alive Podcast Network, which offers a diverse range of shows featuring powerful storytelling, insightful conversations, and t Your story deserves to be told with clarity and impact. That’s why I created Storyline by Kingswood to help executives, founders, and rising leaders align their presence with their next chapter. Kingswood Forest Helping leaders and organizations grow with clarity, confidence, and powerful storytelling. Support the show

    1h 3m
  4. Breaking Free From Myths - Scott Mason

    07/15/2025

    Breaking Free From Myths - Scott Mason

    Send a message to the show Ready to break free from a traditional career path and reignite your purpose? Brian welcomes Scott Mason, the Myth Slayer, who reveals his journey from high-powered attorney to transformational coach for lawyers. Discover how Scott leverages timeless Greek mythology to help professionals unshackle themselves from limiting beliefs, conquer professional burnout, and reclaim their true identities. Scott shares pivotal moments that inspired his leap into entrepreneurship and offers practical advice for lawyers (and other professionals) struggling to overcome career dissatisfaction.  Tune in to learn actionable strategies for rewriting your own story, identifying toxic myths that hold you back, and creating a roadmap toward professional freedom and fulfillment. Dont miss this inspiring discussion packed with wisdom for anyone ready to transform and finally do work that matters. Subscribe for more real stories about life's bold career moves! Enjoy! Stay connected with Guest Website: https://www.myfreedomrocks.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themythslayer/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDa8ff2fzhKkbII1W5xjXyg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/s.scott_mason/  Stay connected with Why I Left  Visit: https://www.WhyILeft.co  Subscribe:   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMgQI4X0kEp8-o7Z9D3tRmg  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-i-left/id1613667100  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TE4Y626idPxNeewpCG6Ef  Follow:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialwhyileft/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/why-i-left/  Connect with Brian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianaquart/   Rate us 5 stars and Your story deserves to be told with clarity and impact. That’s why I created Storyline by Kingswood to help executives, founders, and rising leaders align their presence with their next chapter. Kingswood Forest Helping leaders and organizations grow with clarity, confidence, and powerful storytelling. Support the show

    50 min
  5. Leading With Wellbeing First - Chase Sterling

    07/08/2025

    Leading With Wellbeing First - Chase Sterling

    Send a message to the show Brian sits down with Chase Sterling, U.S. Army veteran, founder of Wellbeing Think Tank, and Principal Consultant at HHP Cultures. Chase shares her inspiring journey from overcoming adversity in her youth to thriving as a workplace wellbeing expert. Discover how Chases own experiences with chronic pain and career pivots fueled her mission to build resilient, supportive workplaces.  She unpacks the science behind meaningful workplace wellbeing, the value of adaptable strategies, and actionable advice for individuals and organizations seeking purpose-driven change. Whether youre navigating career uncertainty or leading workplace initiatives, this episode offers insights on prioritizing health, building cultures of support, and leading with resilience. Tune in to hear Chases powerful story and how shes helping others transform adversity into opportunity.  Enjoy! Stay connected with Guest Website: https://www.wellbeingthinktank.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chasesterling/ Stay connected with Why I Left  Visit: https://www.WhyILeft.co  Subscribe:   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMgQI4X0kEp8-o7Z9D3tRmg  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-i-left/id1613667100  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TE4Y626idPxNeewpCG6Ef  Follow:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialwhyileft/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/why-i-left/  Connect with Brian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianaquart/   Rate us 5 stars and share feedback: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-i-left/id1613667100  Why I Left is happy to be part of the Alive Podcast Network, which offers a diverse range of shows featuring powerful storytelling, insightful conversations, and thought-provoking discussions.  Discover Your story deserves to be told with clarity and impact. That’s why I created Storyline by Kingswood to help executives, founders, and rising leaders align their presence with their next chapter. Kingswood Forest Helping leaders and organizations grow with clarity, confidence, and powerful storytelling. Support the show

    53 min
  6. The Power of Intersectionality - Zhou Fang

    07/01/2025

    The Power of Intersectionality - Zhou Fang

    Send a message to the show In this powerful episode of Why I Left, Brian Aquart sits down with Zhou Fang, Founder of Intersectional Group and host of the Intersection Podcast. Zhou shares her journey from immigrant tech professional to social justice entrepreneur, highlighting the role of intersectionality in equity and inclusion work. Discover how her lived experiences inspire her consulting, the story behind her impactful Pay Transparency Report, and actionable advice for leaders aiming to create authentic change.  Through honest storytelling, Zhou explores the complexities of identity, the significance of collective healing, and the importance of community and joy for underrepresented entrepreneurs. Tune in for inspiration, practical insights, and fresh perspectives on fostering workplace equity.  Enjoy! Stay connected with Guest Website: https://www.intersectional.group/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zhoufang35/ Stay connected with Why I Left  Visit: https://www.WhyILeft.co  Subscribe:   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMgQI4X0kEp8-o7Z9D3tRmg  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-i-left/id1613667100  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TE4Y626idPxNeewpCG6Ef  Follow:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialwhyileft/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/why-i-left/  Connect with Brian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianaquart/   Rate us 5 stars and share feedback: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-i-left/id1613667100  Why I Left is happy to be part of the Alive Podcast Network, which offers a diverse range of shows featuring powerful storytelling, insightful conversations, and thought-provoking discussions.  Discover more at http Your story deserves to be told with clarity and impact. That’s why I created Storyline by Kingswood to help executives, founders, and rising leaders align their presence with their next chapter. Kingswood Forest Helping leaders and organizations grow with clarity, confidence, and powerful storytelling. Support the show

    58 min
  7. Writing With Soul - Danielle Perlin-Good

    06/24/2025

    Writing With Soul - Danielle Perlin-Good

    Send a message to the show Brian sits down with Danielle Perlin-Good, the Soul-Aligned Ghostwriter. Danielle shares her powerful journey from being laid off at the Chicago Tribune to launching a thriving business helping leaders, executives, and visionaries craft authentic, lasting legacies through ghostwritten books. Discover how intuition, spiritual storytelling, and real-world digital marketing experience shaped Danielles unique approach to writing for others.  She reveals misconceptions about ghostwriting, practical advice for career pivoters, and what it means to build a legacy with purpose-driven content. Whether youre curious about creative careers or ready to share your own story, this episode is packed with actionable insights and heartfelt encouragement for making bold career moves. Connect with Danielle on LinkedIn or visit thesoulalignedghostwriter.com for more on her transformative work! Enjoy! Stay connected with Guest Website: https://www.thesoulalignedghostwriter.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellebperlingood/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/thesoulalignedghostwriter Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniellebperlingood Stay connected with Why I Left  Visit: https://www.WhyILeft.co  Subscribe:   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMgQI4X0kEp8-o7Z9D3tRmg  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-i-left/id1613667100  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TE4Y626idPxNeewpCG6Ef  Follow:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialwhyileft/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/why-i-left/  Connect with Brian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianaquart/   Rate us 5 stars and share feedback: Your story deserves to be told with clarity and impact. That’s why I created Storyline by Kingswood to help executives, founders, and rising leaders align their presence with their next chapter. Kingswood Forest Helping leaders and organizations grow with clarity, confidence, and powerful storytelling. Support the show

    32 min
  8. From Cockpit to Coach - Walt Morgan

    06/17/2025

    From Cockpit to Coach - Walt Morgan

    Send a message to the show Brian Aquart welcomes Walt Morgan, a retired Navy helicopter pilot turned leadership coach. Walt shares his inspiring journey from the cockpit to the classroom and the corporate world, diving into the emotional realities of military separation and the profound identity shift vets often face. Discover Walts unique insights on resilience, adaptability, and why veterans leadership skills are invaluable, yet often overlooked, in civilian careers.  We also discuss the power of Integral Coaching, the challenges of transitioning careers, and practical advice for both veterans and organizations hiring them. Whether youre a veteran, a leader, or in transition yourself, this episode offers actionable wisdom on personal growth, networking, and reshaping leadership for the future. Dont miss this powerful conversation about adaptability, purpose, and redefining your path. Enjoy! Stay connected with Guest Website: http://tliftcoaching.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/walt-morgan/ Stay connected with Why I Left  Visit: https://www.WhyILeft.co  Subscribe:   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMgQI4X0kEp8-o7Z9D3tRmg  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-i-left/id1613667100  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TE4Y626idPxNeewpCG6Ef  Follow:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialwhyileft/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/why-i-left/  Connect with Brian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianaquart/   Rate us 5 stars and share feedback: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-i-left/id1613667100  Why I Left is happy to be part of the Alive Podcast Network, which offers a diverse range of shows featuring powerful storytelling, insightful conversations, and thought-provoking discussions.  Your story deserves to be told with clarity and impact. That’s why I created Storyline by Kingswood to help executives, founders, and rising leaders align their presence with their next chapter. Kingswood Forest Helping leaders and organizations grow with clarity, confidence, and powerful storytelling. Support the show

    48 min
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4.9
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

Why I Left tells real stories from real people about the bold career moves that changed their lives.  Hosted by Brian Aquart, the show goes beyond resignations to uncover courage, clarity, and growth in the face of change. Each episode offers honest reflections, lessons learned, and practical insights for anyone considering a pivot, navigating uncertainty, or seeking inspiration for their next chapter. We don’t talk about resignations enough, this podcast makes sure we do.

Information

  • Creator
    Brian Aquart
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    104
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Why I Left
  • Show Website
    Why I Left