The Career Breakers Show

Bonnie Wan is a Career Breaker.She spent 30 years in the world of advertising and brand strategy, helping companies get clear on who they are, what they value, and where they’re going. On paper, it was a successful, long-standing career. But behind the scenes, she was navigating the same tension many high-achievers face—trying to hold it all together while something deeper felt misaligned.In a moment of frustration and uncertainty in her personal life, Bonnie turned her strategy work inward and created what would eventually become The Life Brief—a way to get clear on what really matters and make more aligned decisions.In this episode, Bonnie shares how her career evolved from brand strategy to life strategy, how “The Life Brief” helped her make major life and career decisions, and how she ultimately made the leap from a long corporate career into the work she does today. She also shares how she now helps individuals and organizations get “sticky” on what makes them distinctly valuable, so they can focus their time and energy on what truly matters.If you’re feeling stretched thin, questioning your priorities, or trying to figure out what comes next in your career, this episode is for you.Listen now and follow the show for more inspiring stories of career pivots, pauses, and transitions.If this episode resonated, I would love for you to share it with someone who might need to hear it too. Every follow and listen helps me know this work is reaching others and encourages me to keep going. Thank you so much for your support. ❤️Notes:Here’s some links to things we discussed in this episode. Bonnie’s book and website, The Life Brief: https://thelifebrief.com/Bonnie’s upcoming offering: https://www.meawisdom.com/workshop/find-your-f-yes-a-guide-to-no-regrets-living/Brad Kleiner’s Farm to Forest Dinners: https://groundedbycedarroot.com/events-registration/Interested in career coaching with Adriane? Get in touch anytime at: ⁠[email protected]⁠

Dr. Sarabeth Berk Bickerton is a Career Breaker.Her career never followed a straight line. From studying both art and theory to becoming an educator, researcher, and innovation leader, Sarabeth found herself constantly navigating roles that didn’t quite fit into one clear category. Along the way, she experienced multiple professional identity crises—moments where she questioned not just what she did, but who she was in her work.In this episode, Sarabeth shares how those moments led her to study professional identity and ultimately build her body of work around helping others understand who they are beyond their job titles. She talks about the concept of hybrid professionals, why the idea of “fit” is breaking down in today’s workforce, and how her journey shaped her books More Than My Title and Seen, Known, and Valued.If you’ve ever felt misunderstood in your work, struggled to explain what you do, or wondered where you truly belong in your career, this episode is for you.Listen now and follow the show for more inspiring stories of career pivots, pauses, and transitions.If this episode resonated, I would love for you to share it with someone who might need to hear it too. Every follow and listen helps me know this work is reaching others and encourages me to keep going. Thank you so much for your support. ❤️Notes:Here’s some links to things we discussed in this episode. Sarabeth’s latest book: https://a.co/d/00bsMlYfSarabeth’s website and books: https://www.morethanmytitle.com/about-sarabeth-berkSarabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarabethberk/Sarabeth on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/morethanmytitle/

Elizabeth Aldana is a Career Breaker.Her career followed a path many ambitious professionals are taught to chase. She worked hard, moved up, took on bigger roles, and built a career that looked successful on paper. But along the way, she began to realize that endurance is not always the same thing as alignment, and that staying too long in something that no longer fits can come at a real cost.In this episode, Elizabeth shares how a series of career breakups helped her build self-trust, resilience, and a new way of thinking about change. She explains how experiences like moving to Singapore, recovering from burnout, and stepping away from roles that no longer aligned eventually shaped the framework she now uses in her coaching and speaking work as The Breakup Artist. Together, we talk about what it means to break up not just with jobs, but with patterns, expectations, and definitions of success that no longer serve you.If you are questioning whether it is time to make a change or trying to trust yourself enough to take the next step, this episode is for you.Listen now and follow the show for more inspiring stories of career pivots, pauses, and transitions.If this episode resonated, I would love for you to share it with someone who might need to hear it too. Every follow and listen helps me know this work is reaching others and encourages me to keep going. Thank you so much for your support. ❤️Notes:Here’s some links to things we discussed in this episode. Elizabeth on Instagram: https://tinyurl.com/283z4p2uElizabeth’s website: https://breakupartist.coach/

Josh Levine is a Career Breaker.His career began in the world of graphic design, working at a small brand strategy firm in the Bay Area. Over time, he realized his strengths extended beyond design into facilitation and helping leaders make meaning together. That realization set him on a path toward building his own business, Great Mondays,. And now he has spent more than 15 years helping organizations think more deeply about culture, purpose, and the role work plays in people’s lives.In this episode, Josh shares how following his curiosity led him from design into culture work, even before most people understood what culture really meant. He reflects on the realities of building a business over time, the energy it takes to keep evolving your work when the world changes, and what it means to pivot again as the world of work shifts rapidly in the age of AI. He also shares why he launched his new project, The Job Market Sh*t Show, and what he is learning about hiring, imbalance, and the future of work.If you are navigating change in your career or trying to understand how to stay relevant in a rapidly shifting world, this episode is for you.Listen now and follow the show for more inspiring stories of career pivots, pauses, and transitions.If this episode resonated, I would love for you to share it with someone who might need to hear it too. Every follow and listen helps me know this work is reaching others and encourages me to keep going. Thank you so much for your support. ❤️Notes:Here’s some links to things we discussed in this episode. Josh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akajoshlevine/The Job Market Shit Show: https://joshlevine.substack.com/Josh’s business: https://greatmondays.com/

Jess Weisz is a Career Breaker.Her career began the way many high achievers are taught it should. She started in consulting at McKinsey, moved into strategy at the Bank of Montreal, and followed a path that looked successful on paper. But internally, something wasn’t working, and over time, she began to question the rules she had been following.In this episode, Jess shares how stepping away from traditional expectations led her through multiple career chapters, from corporate to venture-backed tech to a self-directed sabbatical. She explains how those experiences shaped Rule Breaker, the platform she created to help working parents challenge unrealistic expectations, make more intentional choices, and redefine what success looks like for themselves.If you’ve been questioning the path you’re on or feeling the pressure to do it all and do it perfectly, this episode is for you.Listen now and follow the show for more inspiring stories of career pivots, pauses, and transitions.If this episode resonated, I would love for you to share it with someone who might need to hear it too. Every follow and listen helps me know this work is reaching others and encourages me to keep going. Thank you so much for your support. ❤️Notes:Here’s some links to things we discussed in this episode. Rule Breaker Reset, small group coaching for high-achieving working parents: https://reset.rulebreaker.co/Rule Breaker newsletter: https://rulebreaker.substack.com/

Andrea Jones is a Career Breaker.Her career began in a fast-paced, high-demand role at Intel, where she worked as a process engineer and followed a path that looked successful on paper. But early on, she knew she wanted something different. She was craving more flexibility, more ownership over her time, and a career that could support the life she wanted to build.In this episode, Andrea shares how that realization led her to business school and eventually to starting her own consulting firm, even before she felt fully ready. She talks about navigating financial decisions with her partner, building a business while raising four kids, and the role community played in helping her grow in confidence. She also reflects on what it takes to start over more than once and how she is now creating new ways for women to engage in meaningful, flexible work across different seasons of life.If you have been craving more flexibility, questioning the structure of your current career, or wondering how to take a step toward something new, this episode is for you.Listen now and follow the show for more inspiring stories of career pivots, pauses, and transitions.If this episode resonated, I would love for you to share it with someone who might need to hear it too. Every follow and listen helps me know this work is reaching others and encourages me to keep going. Thank you so much for your support. ❤️Notes:Here’s some links to things we discussed in this episode. Andrea on LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreajones/Adnrea’s company, AJC Company: https://www.ajccompany.com/Vistage: https://www.vistage.com/Execute Agility: https://executagility.com/resourcesWomen + Workplaces: https://www.womenworkplaces.org/

Lucy Nobles is a Career Breaker. She spent over two decades at Adidas, building a career that didn’t follow a traditional path but was rooted in one clear purpose: creating space for creative teams to do their best work. What started as a temp role turned into a 22-year journey supporting designers, shaping environments, and filling the gaps that organizations often overlook. But after years of change—and especially in the wake of the pandemic—something no longer felt aligned.In this episode, Lucy shares how a layoff became an opening to reset, reflect, and explore what she truly wanted. She talks about stepping away from rigid career development frameworks, experimenting with creative workshops, coaching, and consulting, and ultimately co-founding Creative Pathways Studio. Lucy also reflects on why traditional career advice doesn’t always apply, how following what feels meaningful can be its own strategy, and how reframing this chapter as a “sabbatical” helped her see the growth in the uncertainty.If you’ve been feeling stuck between what you should do and what you actually want, or navigating a transition that doesn’t have a clear plan, this episode is for you.Listen now and follow the show for more inspiring stories of career pivots, pauses, and transitions.If this episode resonated, I would love for you to share it with someone who might need to hear it too. Every follow and listen helps me know this work is reaching others and encourages me to keep going. Thank you so much for your support. ❤️Notes:Here’s some links to things we discussed in this episode. Creative Process Workshops: www.yourcreativepathway.comLucy’s coaching practice: www.lucynobles.comContact Lucy: [email protected] on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucynobles/Lucy’s band, Palm Cockatoo: https://palmcockatoo.bandcamp.com/Anita Roddick’s book:https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1086980.Business_as_UnusualStrengths Finder: https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/254033/strengthsfinder.aspxJessica Lackey’s community: https://www.deeperfoundations.com/

Sarah Beller is a Career Breaker.Her career began in education, arts management, and nonprofit leadership, including work centered on global social justice. On paper, her path was meaningful and aligned. But over time, she began to notice the signs that something wasn’t sustainable.In this episode, Sarah shares how she followed the inner pull toward coaching and community-building, and the practical and emotional steps she took before leaving her nonprofit career. She reflects on the unexpected moment that helped her realize it was time to start her own venture, and how her journey unfolded not as one big leap, but as a series of small shifts back into alignment with herself.If you are feeling the early signs that something in your career is no longer sustainable, or wondering what it might look like to move toward something more aligned, this episode is for you.Listen now and follow the show for more inspiring stories of career pivots, pauses, and transitions.If this episode resonated, I would love for you to share it with someone who might need to hear it too. Every follow and listen helps me know this work is reaching others and encourages me to keep going. Thank you so much for your support. ❤️Notes:Here’s some links to things we discussed in this episode. Sarah's organization: https://www.realizechange.org/Changemakers Circle: https://www.realizechange.org/changemakersSarah's LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahbeller⁠Presence Based Coaching: https://presencebasedcoaching.com/SongRise: https://songrisedc.org/

Lee Wilmoth and Emily Holmes are Career Breakers.Both of their careers have unfolded far outside the traditional one-lane career path. Over the years, they’ve built work lives that blend facilitation, strategy, consulting, creativity, and art — not as side hobbies, but as meaningful and intentional parts of how they work and live. What might look “scattered” from the outside has actually become a part of their working strategy.In this episode, Lee and Emily share how their careers evolved through pivots, layoffs, entrepreneurship, creative exploration, and moments of restlessness that pushed them toward something more authentic. They both talk about building portfolio careers that allow them to honor their many interests, adapt to change, and create work that feels sustainable and true to who they are. They also share how their own experiences led them to create The Strategy of Scatteredness, a cohort designed to help others reimagine career paths that don’t fit neatly into one box.If you’ve ever felt like you were too multi-passionate, too nonlinear, or too “all over the place” to build a meaningful career, this episode is for you.Listen now and follow the show for more inspiring stories of career pivots, pauses, and transitions.If this episode resonated, I would love for you to share it with someone who might need to hear it too. Every follow and listen helps me know this work is reaching others and encourages me to keep going. Thank you so much for your support. ❤️Notes:Here’s some links to things we discussed in this episode. Lee & Emily’s Strategy of Scatteredness Offering: https://tinyurl.com/589fbhc4 Lee & Emily’s LinkedIn Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/we-contain-multitudes-why-do-expect-one-job-title-lee-lee-oohvc/?trackingId=mgbME0pZQGihHwr5HiDeGg%3D%3DLee on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lee-wilmoth/Emily on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/uxemily/Lee’s consultancy: https://learnandwork.co/Emily’s Substack: https://curiositybusiness.substack.com/

Brian Aquart is a Career Breaker.He began his career on a traditional path in law, first private practice, then city government, with a clear idea of what success was supposed to look like. But after a door closed on the version of his future he thought he needed, Brian slowed down, hired a coach, and reimagined how his skills could translate beyond legal practice.In this episode, Brian shares how that pivot led him into healthcare, where he now builds programs that help young people see the many ways they can belong in the healthcare system—far beyond being a doctor or nurse. He also takes us behind the scenes of his podcast, Why I Left, which started during the Great Resignation as a quest to understand why people were leaving “stability” during a time of uncertainty. And we explore his newest work, Storyline by Kingswood, where he helps leaders find narrative clarity so they can show up with intention and lead with impact.If you’re navigating a career change that feels messy, questioning a path you once thought was “the one,” or craving clarity on how to tell your story in a way that actually feels like you, this episode is for you.Listen now and follow the show for more inspiring stories of career pivots, pauses, and transitions.If this episode resonated, I would love for you to share it with someone who might need to hear it too. Every follow and listen helps me know this work is reaching others and encourages me to keep going. Thank you so much for your support. ❤️Notes:Here’s some links to things we discussed in this episode. Brian Aquart on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianaquart/Why I Left LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/why-i-left/Why I Left Podcast website: https://whyileft.co/Storyline by Kingswood: https://www.kingswoodforestllc.com/storyline-by-kingswood/Jordan Cole: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordana-cole-mapp-pcc-a8445a8/

Elles Skony is a Career Breaker.Elles has what she calls a “classic HR background.” She began as a generalist, took on broader responsibility across talent, recruiting, and learning, and eventually stepped into the role of Chief People Officer at a high-growth startup. Her path followed a progression many HR leaders recognize.But when her company needed to scale down, Elles made an unexpected move: she put herself on the layoff list. Then, instead of jumping into another full-time executive role, she stepped out of traditional HR leadership and into fractional work—staying close to the work she loves while redesigning how she works.In this episode, Elles breaks down what fractional really means and how it differs from consulting or advisory work. She shares how a “career curiosity tour,” deep relationship-building, and listening to her energy led her into this new chapter. We also talk about the real demands of fractional life, the pressure of being paid for your expertise, and how professionals can advocate for more flexible roles by leading with business acumen and solutions.If you’re curious about fractional work, questioning the traditional ladder, or thinking about how to design work around learning, flexibility, and energy—not just title—this episode is for you.Listen now and follow the show for more inspiring stories of career pivots, pauses, and transitions.If this episode resonated, I would love for you to share it with someone who might need to hear it. Every follow and listen helps me know this work is reaching others and encourages me to keep going. Thank you so much for your support. ❤️Notes:Here’s some links to things we discussed in this episode. Elles Skony on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellesskony/Fractional People People on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fractional-people-people/Fractional People People website: https://www.fractionalpeoplepeople.com/Elles Skony’s HR consulting business: https://www.linkedin.com/company/organized-chaos-consulting/

Dr. Robin Owens is a Career Breaker.Her career began the way many high achievers are taught it should. She majored in business, landed a leadership role at a bank right out of college, and on paper, she had arrived. But internally, something was off, and eventually her body forced her to pay attention.In this episode, Robin shares how breaking away from early expectations led her through multiple career chapters and toward work that truly fits who she is. She explains how her own career journey shaped the PurposeMAKER Method™, the framework she now teaches to help people navigate their careers with clarity, self-trust, and purpose.If you are questioning a path that looks right on the outside or searching for what comes next, this episode is for you.Listen now and follow the show for more inspiring stories of career pivots, pauses, and transitions. If this episode resonated, I would love for you to share it with someone who might need to hear it. Every follow and listen helps me know this work is reaching others and encourages me to keep going. Thank you so much for your support. ❤️Notes:Here’s some links to things we discussed in this episode. Dr. Robin Owens on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinlowensphd/Dr. Robin's website: https://www.robinlowens.com/Leadership Purpose with Dr. Robin: https://www.robinlowens.com/podcastPurpose Maker by Dr. Robin *COMING SUMMER 2026!*: https://www.robinlowens.com/book

LISTENER SURVEYAudrey Blankenship is a Career Breaker.Audrey’s career has taken her across sales, training, and tech, with plenty of pivots along the way. Today, she works in sales enablement, supporting teams at a cybersecurity company. Like many people navigating work right now, she’s experienced moments of uncertainty, including a layoff that invited her to pause and think differently about what she wanted next.In this Season 3 finale of The Career Breakers Show, Audrey shares her own career story. Then, the conversation turns. Audrey interviews Adriane on the themes that emerged across the season and how these stories have shifted Adriane’s perspective personally. They also reflect on their shared history, having worked together earlier in their careers.Together, they explore what these stories are revealing about modern careers. They talk about how people are navigating uncertainty, redefining success, and learning to build lives that are not solely defined by work.This episode is a chance to zoom out, connect the dots from Season 3, and close the season together.Did you enjoy this episode? Here's how you can support the show and help others find it:1.) Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.2.) Share an episode with a friend.3.) Send me a message! Connect with Adriane on LinkedIn:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Thank you for supporting the show! ❤️Notes:Here’s some links to things we discussed in this episode. Audrey on LinkedInTravis Wilson’s episodeSJ Tutor’s episodeWendy Kleinfeldt’s episodeJessica Wan’s episodeKrista Vaught’s episodeAmy Petricek’s episodeJessica Wan’s Podcast: ⁠The Ampersand Manifesto⁠Follow Adriane on LinkedIn as we relisten to all the episodes starting NOW!Please take the listener survey here.

Jessica Wan is a Career Breaker. After a successful career rising through marketing roles across design, the arts, and tech, Jessica reached a moment when the path ahead looked clear but no longer felt right. She craved deeper conversations, more meaningful impact, and a way of working that honored all the parts of who she is.In this episode, Jessica shares how she stepped away from a role she loved and navigated the uncertainty that followed. She talks about the grief of leaving something good, the questions that surfaced in the in-between, and the internal myths she had to release around money, identity, and investing in herself. Her break ultimately opened the door to coaching and to building a business that feels true to her values, her energy, and her multidimensional life.Jessica also introduces her idea of the ampersand: people who build thriving careers in two or more completely different worlds. She explains why these blended paths aren’t just possible, but essential to the future of work.She offers thoughtful insights for anyone at a crossroads, reminding us that we’re allowed to choose again and follow our curiosity, and that reinvention is far more accessible than we often believe.Tune in to hear Jessica’s story of clarity, creativity, and building a career that makes room for all of who you are.Jessica’s current offering: https://www.kristinalibby.com/the-cohortJessica at SXSW on March 16, 2026: https://schedule.sxsw.com/2026/events/PP1162466 Did you enjoy this episode? Here's how you can support the show and help others find it:1.) Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.2.) Share an episode with a friend.3.) Send me a message! Connect with Adriane on LinkedIn:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Thank you for supporting the show! ❤️Notes:Here’s some links to things we discussed in this episode. Jessica’s Website:  https://www.jessicawan.com/Jessica on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicamwan/Jessica’s Podcast: The Ampersand ManifestoWise Women’s Council: https://www.wisewomenscouncil.com/Sarah K. Peck: https://sarahkpeck.substack.com/Lee Price: https://viewfinderpartners.com/Wendy Kleinfeldt’s episode: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/Ty1s0Us8uZbArticle about women advancing in their career because of skills, networks, and mindsets, not mindsets alone: https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/people-and-organizational-performance/our-insights/to-climb-to-the-top-women-should-focus-on-skill-buildingCo-Active Coach Training: https://coactive.com/Center for Executive Coaching: https://centerforexecutivecoaching.com/executive-coach-certification/

Deb Manning is a Career Breaker. Deb's career has spanned multiple chapters, first pausing when her children were young, then rising into senior marketing leader in the tech world. Most recently, she spent 12 years in a role she describes as "full, fast, and fulfilling." She loved her team, loved the work, and yet something inside her knew it was time to pause again.In this episode, Deb shares what prompted her to step away from a career that looked picture-perfect from the outside, how she used her pause to realign with her values, and why “leveling up” sometimes means choosing a role with more space and more joy, not a bigger title. She also talks about crafting a life that feels true to who she is today—a fractional marketing professional, a soon-to-be board member, and a parent with grown kids.Listen now to hear how Deb reshaped her career around alignment and joy, and what her story can teach us about slowing down, listening inward, and designing work that supports the life you want.Did you enjoy this episode? Here's how you can support the show and help others find it:1.) Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.2.) Share an episode with a friend.3.) Buy Me a Coffee I can sip while I produce the next great episode, here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠buymeacoffee.com/adrianejones⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠4.) Send me a message! Connect with Adriane on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Thank you for supporting the show! ❤️Notes:Here’s some links to things we discussed in this episode.Deb on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deb-manning-executive/

Amy Petricek is a Career Breaker.Over the last four years, Amy has navigated three unexpected layoffs. Each one arrived abruptly and outside her control, yet these career disruptions became moments that reshaped how she thinks about work, identity, and growth.In this episode, Amy shares how she rebuilt confidence by activating her network, treating her job search like a sales process, and investing in herself through career coaching and an MBA program. She talks about staying visible during uncertainty, finding momentum when motivation is low, and building a life outside of work so that a layoff doesn’t take everything with it.We also explore the emotional side of job loss, the value of having people you can be honest with, and why setbacks are more common than most of us admit.Listen now to hear how Amy reframed disruption as a path forward and what her story can teach us about navigating layoffs with clarity, agency, and self-trust.Did you enjoy this episode? Here's how you can support the show and help others find it:1.) Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.2.) Share an episode with a friend.3.) Buy Me a Coffee I can sip while I produce the next great episode, here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠buymeacoffee.com/adrianejones⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠4.) Send me a message! Connect with Adriane on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Thank you for supporting the show! ❤️Notes:Here’s some links to things we discussed in this episode.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-petricek/

SJ Tudor is a Career Breaker.After nearly a decade freelancing and enjoying the freedom and flexibility of running her own creative business, SJ started to feel the limits of hustling alone. SJ had big ambitions, including becoming a creative director for a global brand, and she realized she needed new experiences, bigger teams, and a different kind of environment to get there.In this episode, SJ shares how she made the intentional shift from freelancing to corporate life, letting go of a long-held identity and stepping into a role that pushed her to grow. She talks about craving more stability, outgrowing hustle culture, and learning to hold her five-year plan loosely so she could stay open to what might come next.We talk about the entrepreneurial skills she brings into corporate, how designing her life with intention has always been her compass, and why no chapter has to be forever.Listen now to hear how SJ is rewriting what a modern creative career can look like and what her story can teach us about choosing the pace, structure, and path that support who you’re becoming.Did you enjoy this episode? Here's how you can support the show and help others find it:1.) Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.2.) Share an episode with a friend.3.) Buy Me a Coffee I can sip while I produce the next great episode, here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠buymeacoffee.com/adrianejones⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠4.) Send me a message! Connect with Adriane on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Thank you for supporting the show! ❤️Notes:Here’s some links to things we discussed in this episode.SJ on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjtudor/SJ on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sjtudor?igsh=dnJxM3Bycnk4bjFn

Atalay Ozsoy is a Career Breaker.After a decade in corporate sales at companies like Coca-Cola and Amazon, Atalay found himself craving work that felt more meaningful than closing deals. Football had always been an important part of his life but it wasn’t until corporate asked him to choose between returning to the office or continuing to coach on the side that he realized what mattered most.In this episode, Atalay shares how a return to office mandate pushed him to walk away from corporate life, move across the world to London, and start at the bottom of a brand-new field. He shares about redefining success, trusting internal affirmation instead of external validation, and using the lessons from past chapters to coach the next generation of players with purpose and heart.Listen now to hear how Atalay rebuilt his life around what he loves, and what his story can teach us about courage, reinvention, and following the work that makes us feel most alive.Did you enjoy this episode? Here's how you can support the show and help others find it:1.) Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.2.) Share an episode with a friend.3.) Buy Me a Coffee I can sip while I produce the next great episode, here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠buymeacoffee.com/adrianejones⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠4.) Send me a message! Connect with Adriane on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Thank you for supporting the show! ❤️Notes:Here’s some links to things we discussed in this episode.Atalay on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atalayozsoy/Atalay on the AFC Wimbledon Clubs podcast: https://www.afcwimbledon.co.uk/videos/2e298f4f-a064-4a9a-93cf-344f84565c67

Rebecca Goldcrump is a Career Breaker.She began her career as a CPA, following a predictable and stable path. Over time, she realized she wanted work that felt more connected to people and purpose, which led her to pursue an MBA and co-found The Impact Collective, a company helping individuals and organizations actualize their vision of a better world, one where the strength of the collective drives shared success.In this episode, Rebecca shares how she used small experiments to explore new directions, why she believes there are a million paths to purpose, and how rest can be a powerful form of growth.Listen now to hear how Rebecca transformed her career from numbers to humans and what her story can teach us about building a meaningful, purpose-driven life.Did you enjoy this episode? Here's how you can support the show and help others find it:1.) Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.2.) Share an episode with a friend.3.) Buy Me a Coffee I can sip while I produce the next great episode, here: ⁠⁠⁠buymeacoffee.com/adrianejones⁠⁠⁠⁠4.) Send me a message! Connect with Adriane on LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Thank you for supporting the show! ❤️Notes:Here’s some links to things we discussed in this episode.The Impact Collective PDX.com

Emily Lily is a Career Breaker.After more than a decade leading culture, people, and organizational development, including serving as Director of Culture at a Portland startup, Emily felt a pull to step away. What began as a quiet whisper to leave became a full-body call for expansion.They left, but their break took an unexpected turn through two ovarian tumor surgeries, surgical menopause, and a deep process of self-reconnection. Along the way, Emily discovered that when one chapter ends, nothing is wasted. Every experience, skill, and scar comes with you into what’s next.In this episode, Emily shares how rest, intuition, and unlearning became their greatest teachers and how those lessons inspired Second Threshold, their new venture supporting people navigating early and surgical menopause. Together, we talk about dissolving old identities, trusting timing, and writing your own rules for what comes after.Listen now to hear how Emily carried everything they learned into a new chapter and how their story invites us all to do the same.Did you enjoy this episode? Here's how you can support the show and help others find it:1.) Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.2.) Leave a review on Apple Podcasts.3.) Buy Me a Coffee I can sip while I produce the next great episode, here: ⁠⁠⁠buymeacoffee.com/adrianejones⁠⁠⁠⁠Thank you for supporting the show! ❤️Connect with Adriane | Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Notes:Here’s some links to things we discussed in this episode.Kelly James (Emily’s coach): https://www.kellymaureenjames.com/Byron Katie’s School for the Work: https://thework.com/school-for-the-work-byron-katie/Emily’s newest offering, Second Threshold, on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secondthreshold/Emily on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilylily_/Emily on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-lily/

Travis Wilson is a Career Breaker.After years building a career in leadership and learning development, helping teams grow across industries like higher education, healthcare, aerospace, and tech manufacturing, Travis made a pivot. In 2023, he stepped away from corporate life to become the Lead Dad in his household while his wife, an academic physician, pursued her work in oncology.In this episode, Travis shares how this pause from corporate work reshaped his perspective on work, leadership, and family. He reflects on the emotional labor of parenting, the importance of adaptability and intentionality, and his guiding “for now” philosophy that encourages experimentation and reminds us that no chapter is forever. Travis also shares how he’s bringing what he’s learned in this season into his part-time coaching work.Travis offers thoughtful insight for anyone rethinking balance, identity, or success, and shows that true leadership can happen just as much at home as it does at work.Listen now to hear Travis’s story and follow the show for more conversations with bold Career Breakers like him.Did you enjoy this episode? Here's how you can support the show and help others find it:1.) Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.2.) Leave a review on Apple Podcasts.3.) Buy Me a Coffee I can sip while I produce the next great episode, here: ⁠⁠⁠buymeacoffee.com/adrianejones⁠⁠⁠⁠Thank you for supporting the show! ❤️Connect with Adriane | Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Notes:Here’s some links to things we discussed in this episode!A Company of Dads: https://thecompanyofdads.com/Sarah K Peck: https://www.sarahkpeck.com/Travis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travislwilson/

Krista Vaught is a Career Breaker. After graduating from law school, Krista made the bold decision to not practice law, setting her on a completely different path. Guided by curiosity and a desire to connect people with the resources they need to thrive, she built a career spanning higher education, leadership development, and employee experience.Today, she’s a Principal Advisor at Frontier Design, helping organizations reimagine how people learn, lead, and experience work. In this episode, Krista shares how following sparks of curiosity, taking small experimental steps, and looking forward instead of back have shaped her journey. She reflects on letting go of sunk costs and how a single “Design Your Life” exercise ended up predicting the very paths she later took.Krista offers thoughtful insights for anyone navigating uncertainty or considering a pivot, and reminds us that growth doesn’t always mean climbing up. Listen now to hear Krista’s story and follow for more conversations with bold Career Breakers like her.Did you enjoy this episode? Here's how you can support the show and help others find it:1.) Follow Spotify or Apple Podcasts.2.) Leave a review on Apple Podcasts.3.) Buy Me a Coffee I can sip while I produce the next great episode, here: ⁠⁠buymeacoffee.com/adrianejones⁠⁠⁠Thank you for supporting the show! ❤️Connect with Adriane | Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠ or LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/⁠⁠⁠⁠Notes: Laid Off Blog: https://laid0ff.substack.com/Krista on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristavaught/Teal: https://www.tealhq.com/Clifton Strengths: https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/252137/home.aspxDesign Your Life book: https://designingyour.life/books-designing-life-original-book/

Wendy Kleinfeldt is a Career Breaker.After rising through leadership and Learning & Development roles in tech, Wendy reached a breaking point. She realized the the “golden handcuffs” weren’t worth the cost to her self-respect or well-being. Drawing on a lifelong third-culture perspective and a strong mind–body intuition, she chose to walk away from corporate life and redesign work on her own terms.In this episode, Wendy shares how she left a high-paying role, moved states, and pivoted from corporate consulting to coaching. She’s now the founder at Purple Tiger Fitness where she helps women at the crossroads of fitness and leadership.In this episode, she shares about separating passion from purpose, why “career” isn’t always the right frame, and what it looks like to build an integrated life where work, family, and fitness support each other. We also talk about accountability, boundaries, and the small habits that unlock big change, like prepping for her first bodybuilding competition!Wendy offers powerful insights for anyone questioning the path they’re on. Tune in to hear Wendy’s story of courage and reinvention. Listen now and follow for more stories from bold Career Breakers like Wendy.Notes:Did you enjoy this episode? Here's how you can support the show and help others find it:1.) Follow Spotify or Apple Podcasts.2.) Leave a review on Apple Podcasts.3.) Buy Me a Coffee I can sip while I produce the next great episode, here: ⁠⁠buymeacoffee.com/adrianejones⁠⁠⁠Thank you for supporting the show! ❤️Clip from Elizabeth Gilbert on Hobbies, Jobs, Careers, and Vocations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0g7ARarFNnwWendy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/w3ndy/Wendy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/purpletigerfitness/Connect with Adriane | Email: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠ or LinkedIn:⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/⁠⁠⁠

Todd Sattersten is a Career Breaker.Todd started his career in engineering and fabrication, but his interest in business books led him down a new path. What began as blogging and interviewing authors led him into publishing, first supporting authors with book launches, speaking, and events, and eventually taking over Bard Press, a Portland, Oregon-based book publisher.In this episode, Todd shares how persistence, pivots, and following what sparked his interest opened new doors along the way. He reflects on the hesitant yeses, the role of timing and finances in making career moves, and the lessons he’s learned from publishing influential business books.Todd offers valuable insights for anyone considering a career break, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, paying attention to what interests you, and taking action even when the next step isn’t clear.Tune in now to hear Todd’s story and follow for more stories from bold Career Breakers like Todd.Notes:Did you enjoy this episode? Here's how you can support the show and help others find it:1.) Follow Spotify or Apple Podcasts.2.) Leave a review on Apple Podcasts.3.) Buy Me a Coffee I can sip while I produce the next great episode, here: ⁠buymeacoffee.com/adrianejones⁠⁠/ Bard Press: Bardpress.com/Todd’s new book: https://bardpress.com/100best// Connect with Adriane | Email: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠ or LinkedIn:⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/⁠⁠Thank you for supporting the show! ❤️

In this special season finale of The Career Breakers Show, host and creator Adriane Jones returns to the mic, solo, to reflect on Season 2, share behind-the-scenes updates, and offer a glimpse into what’s next — for the show and her!Over the past six months, Adriane has interviewed bold professionals navigating pivots, pauses, and transitions — not always with a plan, but often by following a spark. These stories reshaped her own thinking and helped her reimagine what’s possible in work and life.In this episode, Adriane shares what’s changed in her own career since Season 1. After five years of running a successful L&D consultancy, she’s craving collaboration, impact, and a new kind of challenge.She also reflects on what it means to change the pace of your “career treadmill” without losing your sense of purpose—and how parenting, ambition, and career identity evolve in unexpected ways.Tune in to hear Adriane’s honest reflections on growth, transition, and the messy middle of career change—and be sure to reach out and share your ideas for Season 3!Notes:Get updates on my journey and Season 3 and share your ideas by:💌 Signing up for my newsletter: adrianeejones.com🔗 Connecting on LinkedIn: ⁠linkedin.com/in/adrianejones⁠📬 Emailing me directly (please no spam!): ⁠[email protected]⁠THANK YOU to the incredible guests and listeners of Season 2! I'll be back after a summer break with more real, reflective stories from bold Career Breakers reimagining work. ❤️: Adriane

Sarah K Peck is a Career Breaker.After five years in the corporate world at the start of her career, Sarah knew it wasn’t the right fit, so she made her leap into entrepreneurship. A few career pivots later, and inspired by her own experience of pregnancy and startup life, she set out to write a book about what it’s really like to build a business while becoming a parent. But along the way, the interviews she recorded for research took on a life of their own, and everything changed.What began as a side project eventually grew into Startup Parent, the Startup Parent podcast, the Wise Women’s Council, and her latest venture, Founders with Kids.In this episode, SKP shares how she stumbled into a new career path while writing that book, how she navigated the early days of freelancing and motherhood, and how she’s continued to redesign her work around real life, not hustle culture.Her story is smart, honest, and full of real talk for anyone who’s ever questioned the rules of work.Tune in to hear SKP’s story of reinvention, and follow for more conversations with bold Career Breakers charting their own paths.NotesDid you enjoy this episode? Follow along and help others find the show! Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! Or Buy Me a Coffee I can sip while I produce the next great episode, here: buymeacoffee.com/adrianejones⁠/ SKP on Threads: https://www.threads.com/@sarahkpeck/SKP on Substack: https://substack.com/@sarahkpeck/Wise Women's Council: https://startupparent.com/wise-womens-council-community-mastermind//Founders with Kids: https://startupparent.com/founders-with-kids//Start Up Parent: https://startupparent.com// Connect with Adriane | Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠ or LinkedIn:⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/⁠Thank you for listening! ❤️

Lea Pandozzi is a Career Breaker.She’s also my oldest friend—we go way back to 3rd grade!Lea began her career in higher education before making a bold pivot into big tech. At Amazon, she didn’t just follow a set path—she carved out her own, moving from recruiting into an executive business partner role where she could put her strengths to work.When the work no longer felt fulfilling, she chose to step away without a job lined up.That pause created space for new opportunities, including a career pivot into business operations at Boeing. When company-wide layoffs hit—through no fault of her own—Lea once again found herself facing uncertainty and leaned on what she’d learned to choose her next step with intention.In this episode, Lea shares how embracing both pivots and pauses helped her get clear on what she wants from work and life. We talk about working through the guilt of not having a job, making space for rest and joy during a job search, and staying grounded when plans change.Lea’s story shows how stepping away can give you the clarity and confidence to move forward on your own terms.Listen in as she reflects on her career journey and the choices that helped her find a better path—and follow for more stories from bold Career Breakers redefining how we work.Notes:Did you enjoy this episode? Follow along and help others find the show! Subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! Or Buy Me a Coffee I can sip while I produce the next great episode, here: buymeacoffee.com/adrianejones⁠/ Lea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lea-pandozzi-1b945531// Connect with Adriane | Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠ or LinkedIn:⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/⁠Thank you for listening! ❤️

Murillo Sorensen is a Career Breaker.After working for over a decade in higher education and making a bold leap into the tech world, Murillo was hit with not one, but two unexpected layoffs. What could have been a moment of defeat turned into an opportunity for clarity, creativity, and growth.In this episode, Murillo shares how his career breaks gave him space to reconnect with his identity beyond work—embracing his lifelong love of storytelling and writing. During his time away from full-time roles, he enrolled in a creative writing course, finished the first draft of a novel, and leaned into a fuller version of himself: writer, educator, gardener, and lifelong learner.Murillo offers honest insight into navigating layoffs, rebuilding confidence, and redefining success on your own terms. His story is a powerful reminder that we are more than our job titles. And sometimes, a pause is exactly what we need to find what’s next.Tune in to hear Murillo’s inspiring story of curiosity, resilience, and reinvention. Listen now and follow for more stories from bold Career Breakers like Murillo.Notes:Did you enjoy this episode? Follow along and help others find the show! Subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! Or Buy Me a Coffee I can sip while I produce the next great episode, here: buymeacoffee.com/adrianejones⁠/ Murillo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soranso// Murillo on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/readingwithmurillo// book: Atomic Habits by James Clear: https://tinyurl.com/47m3cfy5/ Connect with Adriane | Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠ or LinkedIn:⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/⁠Thank you for listening! ❤️

Rebecca Magee is a Career Breaker.After years working in social impact and corporate social responsibility, Rebecca took not one but two intentional career breaks, each one reshaping how she thought about success, safety, and sustainability in her work.In this episode, she shares the story of her first break in her twenties, which helped her move from nonprofit work into a dream role in sustainable fashion. Years later, burned out and feeling ready for something new, she made the bold move to ask for a layoff so she could start her own business.Rebecca talks about what it takes to listen to your gut, how to navigate uncertainty when plans change, and the importance of community and self-trust on the path to entrepreneurship.Today, she runs Sister Seasons, where she supports changemakers and mission-driven organizations in building healthier, more human ways of working, grounded in the natural cycles of the body and the planet.Listen in to hear Rebecca’s thoughtful and empowering journey. And follow the show for more stories from bold Career Breakers like her.Notes:Did you enjoy this episode? Follow along and help others find the show! Subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! Or Buy Me a Coffee I can sip while I produce the next great episode, here: buymeacoffee.com/adrianejones/Rebecca's website: https://www.sisterseasons.com// Rebecca on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccalmagee// Connect with Adriane | Email: [email protected] or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/Thank you for listening! ❤️

Jared Perry is a Career Breaker.Jared had been thinking about launching his own business for a while. When he was laid off from his role at a tech startup, it became the catalyst to move forward with a plan he’d already been quietly building - the launch of his fractional Chief of Staff business.In this episode, Jared shares how he navigated that in-between time by validating his business idea through unpaid work, rebuilding confidence, and creating structure - all with a baby on the way. He talks about staying focused on his vision, even when full-time opportunities came his way, and how he's now supporting early-stage founders in a way that aligns with his strengths and values.Jared’s story offers practical advice and inspiration for anyone exploring a more flexible, intentional path. He reminds us that you don’t need all the answers to begin, you just have to start.Listen now and follow for more stories from bold Career Breakers like Jared.Notes:Did you enjoy this episode? Follow along and help others find the show! Subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! Or Buy Me a Coffee I can sip while I produce the next great episode, here: buymeacoffee.com/adrianejones/ Jared on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejaredperry// Connect with Adriane | Email: [email protected] or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/Thank you for listening! ❤️

Lakshmi Narayanee is a Career Breaker.After a successful career in big tech, including nearly a decade at Amazon, Lakshmi found herself feeling disconnected and uninspired. Despite being on a promising career trajectory, she knew something needed to change. So, she made the bold decision to take what she calls a "slowbatical," an intentional break to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with herselfHer journey began with a one-way flight to Bali, where she embarked on an "Eat, Play, Love" adventure. There, she leaned into rest, creativity, and human connection, and gave herself permission to just be. Eventually, Lakshmi went back to Amazon to see if a break was enough or if she needed a complete shift, and that experiment confirmed it was time to leave.Now living in Brooklyn, Lakshmi is building something entirely new—a digital movement rooted in creativity and play.In this episode, Lakshmi opens up about managing anxiety when stepping away from the familiar and how creativity can be a powerful antidote to loneliness. Plus, she leads a playful exercise to help spark wonder and imagination.Tune in to hear Lakshmi’s inspiring story of curiosity, reinvention, and building a life on her own terms. Listen now and follow for more stories from bold Career Breakers like Lakshmi.Notes:Did you enjoy this episode? Follow along and help others find the show! Subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! Or Buy Me a Coffee I can sip while I produce the next great episode, here: buymeacoffee.com/adrianejones/ Lakshmi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lakshminarayanee// Lakshmi on Instagram: once.upon.a.grid/ Connect with Adriane | Email: [email protected] or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/Thank you for listening! ❤️

Tiffany LeNoir is a Career Breaker.After building a successful career in software sales, Tiffany hit a wall of burnout at 30 and realized that even high-paying jobs could feel like dead ends. She took a bold step back, quitting her job and spending the summer scooping ice cream and making greeting cards—giving herself space to reset and explore what truly mattered to her.In this episode, Tiffany shares how her five-month career break helped her redefine success, embrace failure as a stepping stone, and ultimately find a role that aligns with her values. Now, as the Head of Sales at Keep Company, she’s using her skills in a way that supports working parents and caregivers while making a meaningful impact.Tiffany also reflects on her experience as a Division I soccer player, drawing parallels between pushing her body in athletics and pushing through career challenges. Her journey is a reminder that taking a break doesn’t mean stepping back—it means stepping into a future that works for you.Tune in to hear Tiffany’s inspiring story of resilience, reinvention, and finding fulfillment beyond the traditional career path. Listen now and follow for more stories from bold Career Breakers like Tiffany.Notes:Did you enjoy this episode? Follow along and help others find the show! Subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! Or Buy Me a Coffee I can sip while I produce the next great episode, here: buymeacoffee.com/adrianejones./ Tiffany on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanylenoir//Tiffany’s Email: [email protected]/Tiffany’s Etsy Shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/mamamadetime/?etsrc=sdt/Tiffany’s Kickstarter:  https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/mamamadetime/mama-made-time/ Connect with Adriane | Email: [email protected] or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/Thank you for listening! ❤️

Yue Zhao is a Career Breaker.Yue began her career in management consulting before transitioning into product leadership, first at startups and later at tech giants like Meta and Instagram. From the start, she approached her career as a series of stepping stones, intentionally seeking out experiences that would expand her skills and leadership abilities.But when her life and priorities shifted, Yue realized it was time to design a career that aligned with what she valued most, time with her family and the vibrancy of living in Barcelona. That decision led her to coaching, where she now helps women and minorities unlock their potential and accelerate growth to executive levels, guiding them through intentional career transitions with the same strategic approach that shaped her own path.In this episode, Yue shares how she strategically built her career in tech, the mindset shifts that helped her embrace change, and the importance of designing work around what truly matters. Her story is a powerful example of how career breaks don’t always mean stopping, they can be a shift toward something even more fulfilling.Tune in now to hear Yue’s journey of designing a career on her own terms and follow for more stories from bold Career Breakers like Yue.Notes:Did you enjoy this episode? Follow along and help others find the show! Subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! Or Buy Me a Coffee I can sip while I produce the next great episode, here: buymeacoffee.com/adrianejones./ Yue's website: https://www.yuezhao.coach// Yue on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuezhao// Connect with Adriane | Email: [email protected] or LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/Thank you for listening! ❤️

Barrett Brooks is a Career Breaker.After years of helping scale ConvertKit from $3M to $30M in revenue as COO, Barrett found himself at a crossroads where he felt underutilized, overworked, and disconnected from his family. Instead of pushing through, he made a bold decision: to step away without a clear next move, but with the conviction that there had to be something better.In this episode, Barrett shares how he approached his transition with intention, from open conversations with his wife about stress and finances to the logistics of stepping away from a leadership role. He dives into the career experiments he pursued, the uncertainties he faced, and how he ultimately found his way to coaching creative entrepreneurs.Barrett’s story is a powerful reminder that leaving a successful career path isn’t failure, it’s an opportunity to redefine success on your own terms.Tune in to hear Barrett’s journey of reinvention, career exploration, and embracing work that truly aligns with his gifts. Listen now and follow for more stories from bold Career Breakers like Barrett.Notes:Did you enjoy this episode? Follow along and help others find the show! Subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! Or Buy Me a Coffee I can sip while I produce the next great episode, here: buymeacoffee.com/adrianejones.Barrett’s website: https://barrettbrooks.com/The Second Mountain by David Brooks (book): https://tinyurl.com/yypkdb3eConnect with Adriane | Email: [email protected] or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/Thank you for listening! ❤️

Janis Vogel is a Career Breaker. After navigating the high-stress demands of New York City’s film industry, the challenges of motherhood, and the profound impact of the pandemic, Janis transformed her journey - not by leaving her passion behind, but by reimagining her approach. Now, she artfully integrates coaching with film editing, choosing projects that inspire her, like her recent work on AppleTV’s "Severance."In this episode, Janis shares how she balanced her evolving career, embraced gradual transitions through personal challenges such as divorce and career pivots, and built a coaching practice that honors her creative spirit. Tune in now to hear Janis' inspiring story of redefining career success.Notes:Did you enjoy this episode? Follow along and help others find the show! Subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! Or Buy Me a Coffee I can sip while I produce the next great episode, here: buymeacoffee.com/adrianejones."Janis’ website: https://www.janisvogel.com/Janis’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janis-vogel/Janis on Substack: https://substack.com/@janisvogelJanis on Insight Timer: https://insighttimer.com/janisvogelConnect with Adriane | Email: [email protected] or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/Thank you for listening! ❤️

Brittney Van Matre is a Career Breaker.After spending nearly 12 years at Nike leading consumer and employee experience initiatives, Brittney reached a turning point—climbing the corporate ladder no longer felt fulfilling. The pandemic, along with personal losses, gave her the push she needed to walk away, even without a clear next step.In this episode, Brittney shares how she embraced uncertainty, giving herself permission to pause, reflect, and even experience boredom as a gift in her transition. Through a period of exploration and experimentation, she launched Rewild Work Strategies, a business that blends systems thinking with human-centric, nature-based leadership approaches. Today, she’s running Rewild Work Strategies while also pursuing a master’s degree in counseling psychology with a focus on adventure-based therapy and helping others navigate career pivots through coaching and a Maven course.Brittney offers invaluable insights for anyone considering a major career shift, emphasizing the importance of trusting yourself, stepping off the traditional path, and finding meaning in unexpected places.Tune in to hear Brittney’s inspiring story of courage and reinvention. Listen now and follow for more stories from bold Career Breakers like Brittney.Notes:Britney’s website: https://rewild.work/Brittney’s email: [email protected]’s Maven course: https://maven.com/brittney-van-matre/career-pivotsConnect with Adriane | Email: [email protected] or LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianejones/Did you enjoy this episode? Help others find it! Subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! Or show your support by buying me a coffee ⁠here⁠⁠. Thank you for listening! ❤️

Anita Guru is a Career Breaker.After years of building a successful career in corporate learning and development, Anita found herself facing a personal mental health crisis. Burnout, stress, and exhaustion had taken their toll, forcing her to confront a difficult truth—her career was no longer sustainable.In this episode, Anita shares how she made the courageous decision to step away, prioritize her well-being, and reimagine what success truly meant. Through deep reflection and healing, she found her way to work that aligns with her values. Now, as an occupational psychologist turned coach, public speaker, and therapist-in-training, Anita is dedicated to helping others navigate their own well-being and career journeys.Anita offers powerful insights on honoring your own needs, overcoming the fears of leaving corporate life, and embracing a more fulfilling path. If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or questioning what really matters, this conversation is for you.Tune in to hear Anita’s inspiring story of self-discovery, courage, and transformation. Listen now and follow for more stories from bold Career Breakers like Anita.Notes:Anita’s website:https://anitagurumindcoach.com/Anita on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/_themindcoach_Anita on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitaguruConnect with Adriane | Email: [email protected] or on LinkedInhere. Did you enjoy this episode? Help others find it! Subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! Or show your support by buying me a coffee ⁠here⁠⁠. Thank you for listening!

Brea Starmer is a Career Breaker.After being laid off while pregnant, Brea faced a crossroads that ultimately reshaped her career and the future of work for many others. With a background in tech marketing, startups, and consulting, she found herself piecing together short-term projects to fund her own maternity leave—an experience that sparked the idea for her company,Lions + Tigers.In this episode, Brea shares how her career break became a launchpad for entrepreneurship. She opens up about navigating job loss during pregnancy, embracing flexible work, and foundingLions + Tigers to connect high-caliber talent with meaningful opportunities. Her company is built on the philosophy of “highest and best use,” helping professionals find fulfilling work that aligns with their skills, passions, and life needs.Brea’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, reinvention, and the power of reimagining work on your own terms. Whether you’re considering a career break, navigating uncertainty, or exploring flexible work, this conversation is full of inspiration and practical insights.Tune in to hear Brea’s journey and follow for more stories from boldCareer Breakers like her.NotesLions & TigersLions & Tigers Playbook:Playbook for avoiding The All Or Nothing Workplace Lions & Tigers on LinkedIn⁠The Career Breakers Club⁠: peer networking group for people who are reimagining work and reigniting fulfillment *Join the Waitlist Now*⁠The Career Breakers Show⁠: A hub forThe Career Breakers ShowConnect with Adriane by [email protected] on Linkedin⁠here⁠. Did you enjoy this episode? Help others find it! Subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! Or show your support by buying me a coffeehere⁠.

Adriane Jones is a Career Breaker. In this special season finale of The Career Breakers Show, Adriane, the host and creator of the podcast, takes the guest seat to reflect on her own career break journey. Burnt out and dissatisfied, Adriane made the bold decision to step away from her career in 2024—a move that became a transformative chapter in her life. Joined by Kim Middleton, a fellow Career Breaker and guest from Episode 2, who steps into the host seat, Adriane dives into her evolving understanding of what it means to be a “career breaker.” She shares key lessons learned about rest, identity, and fulfillment beyond work, offering a fresh perspective on how breaking free from a career doesn’t always mean stepping away completely. Adriane also reveals exciting plans for The Career Breakers Show and the launch of The Career Breakers Club, a peer networking group designed for those reimagining work and reigniting fulfillment. Tune in to hear Adriane’s heartfelt conversation about embracing change, redefining success, and creating a career—and a life—that truly serves you. Listen now and follow for more inspiring stories from bold Career Breakers like Adriane. Notes: The Career Breakers Club: peer networking group for people who are reimagining work and reigniting fulfillment *Join the Waitlist Now* The Career Breakers Show: A hub for The Career Breakers Show Amelia Hruby of Softer Sounds: Podcast advisor Tricia Hersey: Author of Rest is Resistance This Book Made Me Podcast: Kim Middleton's Podcast on books Connect with Adriane on Linkedin here or Support the Show by buying me a coffee here. THANK YOU LISTENERS & GUESTS OF SEASON 1! Can't wait to be back with you all in February 2025! -A Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/ra/let-good-times-roll License code: Z4VT32VTPR5BVIKR

Allison Whaley is a Career Breaker. After spending over a decade in product marketing for VC-funded FinTech startups, Allison rose to a director role and became a sought-after industry speaker. Yet, she reached a point where success, as traditionally defined, no longer resonated. About a year ago, Allison courageously stepped away from her career without another job lined up to redefine what success looks like and explore her true passions. In this episode, Allison shares how her career break became a turning point for self-discovery and empowerment. Through thoughtful reflection and a structured framework, she uncovered her entrepreneurial dream: Bothered Stories, a platform for high-quality smutty short fiction designed to bring joy and empowerment to women. Allison offers practical advice for anyone considering a career break, emphasizing the value of redefining your goals, trusting your inner voice, and taking bold steps toward alignment and joy. Tune in to hear Allison’s inspiring journey of courage, creativity, and purpose. And follow for more stories from bold Career Breakers like Allison. Learn more about Allison's work at Bothered Stories. Find Allison on LinkedIn here. Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/ra/let-good-times-roll License code: XGADX8EGASWHVDB6

Avni Shah is a Career Breaker. After spending 18 years at Google working on iconic products like Search, Chrome, Maps, and Google for Education, Avni made the bold decision to take a career break. Initially planning for a short pause, her time away has stretched into nearly three years of reflection, renewal, and self-discovery. In this episode, Avni shares how stepping away from her career gave her the space to explore what she truly wants in life, reconnect with her values, and dive into new interests like chronic pain research. She opens up about the fears and uncertainty that came with leaving her identity as a leader at Google, and how tools like the Design Your Life framework helped her focus on health, joy, and connection during her break. Avni offers practical advice for anyone considering a career break, including the importance of trusting your future self, experimenting with new paths, and pausing regularly to redefine personal success. Tune in to hear Avni’s inspiring journey of growth and transformation. Listen now and follow for more stories from bold Career Breakers like Avni. Interested in breaking free from your career? Join The Career Breakers Club community for resources, events, and more! LAUNCHING SOON! Join the waitlist for an exclusive invite at www.thecareerbreakersclub.com. Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/ra/let-good-times-roll License code: 7JZIHJ1AR9GFCTLJ

Lila Cantor is a Career Breaker. After navigating a layoff from her role in tech, Lila faced a moment of uncertainty that ultimately became an opportunity for growth. With a background spanning healthcare, tech, and leadership, she chose to take a step back, reflect on her career path, and prioritize her well-being. In this episode, Lila shares how her break allowed her to grieve the loss of her previous role, focus on self-care, and uncover new possibilities. After her break,  she built a personal brand and launched her own coaching practice to help others navigate their career transitions. Lila offers powerful insights for anyone considering a career break, emphasizing the importance of trusting your intuition, embracing rest, and finding joy in new beginnings. Tune in to hear Lila’s inspiring story of resilience and reinvention. Listen now and follow for more stories from bold Career Breakers like Lila. Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/ra/let-good-times-roll License code: TQZVTQLWGSH5EPXF

Vale Jokisch is a Career Breaker. After years of leadership in the social and environmental impact space, Vale found herself facing burnout, personal loss, and a desire to be more present for her family. Encouraged by a friend’s reminder that she’s irreplaceable at home but not at work, Vale made the courageous decision to step away from her executive role and take a break. In this episode, Vale shares how she structured her break intentionally—focusing on family, local volunteering, creative pursuits, and training for a triathlon. A pivotal Designing Your Life workshop helped her reflect on her strengths and discover a new path in consulting, a career that aligns her skills with a healthier work-life balance. Vale offers thoughtful advice for anyone considering a career break, emphasizing the importance of reflection, intention, and growth—even in small moments. Tune in to hear Vale’s inspiring story of transformation and learn how taking a break can lead to a fulfilling and balanced future. Listen now and follow for more stories from bold Career Breakers like Vale. Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/ra/let-good-times-roll License code: P8SHZMV1E9VJ1VYV

Shannon Kenyon is a Career Breaker. After realizing that her role no longer aligned with her vision as a leader, Shannon took the courageous step to leave her job and refocus on what truly mattered. During her break, she launched her “coffee project”—a unique approach to networking that allowed her to explore new possibilities and ultimately led her to a rewarding career in learning and development. In this episode, Shannon shares the highs and lows of her journey, from overcoming anxiety and navigating the “yoga pants phase” of self-doubt, to finding support through mentorship and coaching. Now thriving in a role that aligns with her goals, Shannon reflects on the dreams she’s achieved and offers insights for others seeking a path that aligns with their values. Tune in to hear Shannon’s story of resilience and rediscovery. Listen now and follow for more inspiring stories from bold Career Breakers like Shannon. Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/ra/let-good-times-roll License code: SFIGZGG8FEBBXGRM

Erica Davis is a Career Breaker.  After nearly two decades in healthcare leadership, Erica found herself feeling burnt out and unfulfilled, craving a life more centered around family, health, and her own well-being. She took a brave step back from her corporate role to explore her passions and priorities, embarking on a four-month sabbatical to reconnect with what truly mattered. During her time off, Erica focused on family, mountain biking, and discovering her calling in wellness coaching. This led her to launch Wellness With Erica, where she supports women in achieving healthier, more balanced lives. By using her paid time off and working part-time, Erica thoughtfully built a financial safety net to ease her transition into her new venture. She now encourages others to consider taking a pause before burnout to find clarity on their own paths. Tune in to hear Erica’s journey of reflection, resilience, and building a career that aligns with her passions and priorities. Listen now and follow for more inspiring stories of bold Career Breakers like Erica! Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/ra/let-good-times-roll License code: QUCIJSYJLHDSTWJI

Alison Tierney is a Career Breaker. After reaching a leadership role, Alison realized the traditional career path wasn’t bringing her the fulfillment she had envisioned.  She took a courageous step and embraced a career break to rediscover what truly brings her joy in both work and life.  During her break, Alison navigated the anxieties and self-doubt that can come with stepping away. Through community involvement, volunteering, and a focus on patience and self-discovery, Alison gained new clarity on what matters most in her career. Now, as the Director of Inclusive Business Partnerships at WSP, she is deeply engaged in work that aligns with her values and passions. Tune in to hear Alison’s journey of self-reflection, resilience, and finding a new path that honors her passions and priorities. Listen now and follow for more inspiring stories of bold Career Breakers like Alison! Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/ra/let-good-times-roll License code: YBIE46MZ2LI8H8PX

Cecile Oreste is a Career Breaker. With a marketing and communications career spanning non-profit arts organizations in cities across the globe, Cecile has always valued travel and exploration. After reflecting on her career during the pandemic, she made the bold decision to take an extended break—traveling for a year and a half with her partner while working part-time remotely. Cecile's break led her to embrace a new perspective on work-life balance, challenging the idea that career success is tied to title or salary. By living on a modest budget and working 10-15 hours a week, she discovered the freedom to explore new places while also redefining her relationship with work. Her story highlights the power of stepping away to gain clarity on your priorities and create a lifestyle that aligns with your values. Tune in to hear Cecile’s inspiring journey of international travel, self-discovery, and redefining success. Listen now and follow for more bold Career Breakers like Cecile! Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/ra/let-good-times-roll License code: BTN0YWWQLY1KPQ9I

Colby Nichols is a Career Breaker. After co-founding and running a successful design studio for 12 years, Colby found himself at a crossroads. Burnt out and no longer connected to his "why," he knew something had to change. Overwhelmed by the challenges of entrepreneurship and the added stress of the pandemic, Colby made the courageous decision to step away from his work for a year-plus-long break. That decision marked the start of Colby’s journey to slow down, let go of productivity pressures, and embrace the uncertainty of not knowing what was next. During his time off, Colby reconnected with his creativity, allowed himself space to just "be," and found new clarity on his path forward. Today, Colby is thriving in a role that reignited his passion—Art Director at Magic: The Gathering in the gaming industry. His story is a testament to the power of taking a break, processing burnout, and rediscovering a renewed sense of purpose. Tune in to hear Colby’s inspiring story of stepping away, navigating uncertainty, and finding his way back to fulfilling work. Listen now and follow for more bold Career Breakers like Colby! Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/ra/let-good-times-roll License code: AM5PYUVORM3HKEYK

Megan Leatherman is a Career Breaker. After working in a burnout-inducing HR job, Megan knew she needed a change. She left her corporate role in Boston and moved back to Oregon. Though she had no idea what she wanted to do next, she was certain of one thing: she couldn't continue down the same path. That leap marked the beginning of Megan’s journey to realign her work with nature’s cycles and break away from capitalism’s relentless push for productivity. During a second career break in late 2019/2020, Megan gained even deeper clarity on her purpose after observing all that was going on in the world at the time. Through these pauses, she not only reassessed her own life but also deepened her understanding of capitalism’s impact on the way we work and live. Now, Megan helps others see that our constant drive to produce isn’t natural, teaching people how to navigate the pressures of capitalism while reclaiming the freedom to step back and breathe. Tune in to hear Megan’s powerful story and learn how taking a natural pause can lead to the clarity you need to move forward into a more fulfilling career. Listen now and follow for more inspiring stories from bold Career Breakers like Megan! Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/ra/let-good-times-roll License code: IOY1CB8KKSNFM3SN

Chris Coladonato is a Career Breaker. After years of thriving in corporate talent development, Chris Coladonato felt a growing sense of unfulfillment and knew it was time for a change. Taking a courageous leap, she stepped away from her corporate career to launch her own consulting business, only to find herself replicating the same patterns she sought to escape. It wasn’t until she attended a transformative retreat that Chris discovered her true calling: guiding others to reconnect with themselves through nature. Now a certified forest bathing guide, Chris leads immersive experiences that help people unplug from the hustle of everyday life and rediscover what truly matters. Tune in to hear Chris’s inspiring journey and learn how embracing uncertainty can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling career path. Listen now and follow for more uplifting stories from bold Career Breakers like Chris! Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/ra/let-good-times-roll License code: QGEEHMSNPTRTYWAI