Navigating life after college with Grace Wardle

SummaryIn this episode of Maps Are Dead, Mike Dauphinee sits down with Grace Wardle, a recent college graduate navigating the transition from student life to the working world. Together, they unpack the emotional and logistical challenges of post-grad uncertainty, job hunting, rejection fatigue, and the pressure to "figure it out." Grace shares how her CliftonStrengths (Responsibility, Arranger, Relator, Developer, Learner) helped her thrive as a youth intern, and how those same strengths now guide her search for meaningful work. Mike offers practical insight on staying hopeful, leveraging your network, and redefining progress when the map runs out. This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling stuck between who they were and who they’re becoming.Grace Wardle (Responsibility | Arranger | Relator | Developer | Learner)Grace Wardle is a recent college graduate from Grand Canyon University. She received a degree in behavioral health science. She’s currently living back in Colorado, spending her time connecting with others, exploring new opportunities, and figuring out what’s next.TakeawaysThe hardest part of post-grad life isn’t the job hunt—it’s staying hopeful in the in-between.If you’re a Relator, cold outreach might drain you. Go where you have connection.Internships can reveal your strengths. Grace thrived in authentic, one-on-one conversations with students.Developer and Learner thrive on growth—so feeling stagnant can feel like failure.There’s no shame in part-time jobs; they’re stepping stones, not signs you’re off-track.People with Responsibility can internalize rejection as personal failure—don’t.Networking isn’t about “asking for a job.” It’s about asking, “If you were in my shoes, who would you talk to?”Make the cup of coffee your job. Relators find jobs through connection, not cold applications.AI-driven hiring may overlook you—but the right introduction won’t.Your job right now? Stay afloat long enough for opportunity to find you.Sound Bites"I'm just sitting around all day.""Navigating life after college can be challenging.""It's hard to measure progress right now.""I needed someone to pour into me, not just pour out.""Networking is essential for finding job opportunities.""Cold outreach is exhausting. I need a connection.""What if I'm doing it wrong?""It’s a speed bump, but it looks like a wall.""Your job right now? Stay afloat."