Switch, Pivot Or Quit

What happens when you try to quit but your boss refuses to accept your resignation? Dana L Cox shares how that pivotal conversation transformed her from an administrative assistant crying every day to a Fortune 500 global executive—and why she eventually ended up "crispy" from burnout anyway. In this raw conversation, Dana breaks down the hidden "cultural success tax" Black women pay in corporate America, reveals the signs of burnout we dismiss until it's too late, and shares her radical reset framework for reclaiming your life. If you've ever felt like success came at too high a cost, this episode will give you permission to redefine what "having it all" actually means.

What happens when you land your dream job at Apple, only to realize comfort zones have expiration dates? In this episode, I sit down with communications strategist Fana Yohannes, who shares how she went from being an early listener of this podcast to revolutionizing social media at Apple and Instagram—and eventually walking away from it all to build something on her own terms. We're unpacking the invisible excellence trap, why having a sponsor matters more than a mentor, and how to know when it's time to Switch, Pivot, or Quit® (even when everyone thinks you're crazy for leaving). Plus, Fana drops truth bombs about AI, overcoming imposter syndrome, and why being "delusional" might be the secret to her success.Fana's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fyohannes/ 

What does it take to leave a 15-year career in tech at companies like Google and leap into the beauty industry? Kara Brothers, former President of StarFace (those iconic star-shaped pimple patches), opens up about her journey from feeling like she wasn't thriving in corporate America to scaling a startup from $5 million to $100 million in revenue. In this raw conversation, she shares the truth about navigating career uncertainty, building self-worth outside of performance reviews, and why the traditional definition of success might be keeping you boxed in. If you've been waiting for permission to pivot, this is your sign.

I'm breaking down something I call "the playing small tax," and trust me, it's costing you way more than you think. We're talking about the hidden price of hiding your gifts: the opportunities you don't take, the ideas you keep to yourself, and the people who miss out when you stay quiet. I'll walk you through the four devastating ways this tax shows up in your life and career, plus I'm giving you a simple audit to help you see exactly what playing small has been costing you. It's time to stop treating your gifts like private possessions and start sharing them with the people who need them most.https://www.ahyianaangel.com/

Ever catch yourself shrinking down your ideas, dimming your expertise, or staying quiet when you know you have the answer? In this episode, we talk about the game-changing difference between adapting your communication style and abandoning your authentic self, and why making yourself smaller isn't professionalism, it's self-sabotage. Discover the Authenticity Calibration framework that helps you show up fully without apologizing for your brilliance, plus get a powerful challenge that will help you start expanding to lead this week. Your gifts can't impact people who need them if they can't see them, so stop hiding.https://www.ahyianaangel.com/

Feeling that pit in your stomach every Sunday night? You're not alone. But what if those Sunday Scaries aren't something to push through, but a message to decode? In this episode, I'm sharing the three critical things your weekend anxiety is trying to tell you about your career alignment, and why the people you admire most don't experience Sunday dread. Plus, we're talking about a simple 10-minute exercise that will help you turn that anxiety into your personal GPS for creating work that actually excites you.https://www.ahyianaangel.com/https://www.youtube.com/@AHYIANA

What if the thing that feels safest right now is actually the biggest risk to your future?In this episode, I'm discussing why your comfort zone has an expiration date and sharing the three warning signs that indicate you're heading toward irrelevance instead of growth. Discover the "Controlled Discomfort" strategy that helped me transition from NBA publicist to podcast entrepreneur, and learn how small weekly expansions can prevent you from becoming obsolete in a rapidly changing world. Plus, get this week's Edge Expansion Exercise to start reclaiming your momentum today! 

How many decisions are you not making because you're waiting for someone else to say it's okay? In this episode, I'm getting real about the three years I spent waiting to write a book—even though I was already qualified, already capable, and already writing. The only thing missing? My own permission.In this episode, you'll discover:The three phrases that keep high-achievers stuck in permission-seeking modeWhy the authority you're seeking has to come from youThe Internal Authority Audit: three powerful questions that reveal what you really wantA simple permission practice you can do this week to stop waiting and start movingIf you've been waiting for the "right time," the "right credentials," or the "right person" to give you the green light—this episode is your wake-up call.You can also check out the Switch, Pivot or Quit podcast content on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@AHYIANA

What if your biggest strength is sabotaging your career? In this eye-opening episode, we dig into how being exceptional at supporting others can trap you in career invisibility. Drawing from my own experience, I'm uncovering the hidden cost of "invisible excellence." You'll discover:The 3 warning signs you're caught in the invisible excellence trap (hint: if you're always the "go-to" for execution but never innovation, this is for you)Why your wins feel communal but your losses feel personal—and what this reveals about your career trajectoryThe "strategic visibility" framework that transforms how you talk about your contributions without sounding arrogantA simple documentation practice that builds evidence of your impactThe Visibility Audit Challenge: a concrete way to make your value seen this weekPerfect for: High-achievers who are tired of being the best-kept secret at work, natural supporters ready to step into the spotlight, and anyone who's ever felt invisible despite being indispensable. Stop hiding yo

In this transformative final episode of the season, global CEO coach and author Sabina Nawaz shares her journey from Microsoft software engineer to executive leadership expert, offering practical strategies for career transitions and authentic leadership.Discover the power of "blank space" - intentional quiet time that can unlock career clarity and creative solutions. Sabina reveals how pressure can either corrupt your leadership or fuel innovation, and why many successful women fall into the "sole provider trap" that leads to burnout.Learn actionable techniques for managing workplace pressure, getting honest feedback as a leader, and staying authentic while meeting business needs. Whether you're considering a career pivot, struggling with leadership challenges, or seeking more fulfillment in your professional life, this episode provides concrete tools for transformation.Key topics include executive coaching strategies, women in leadership, career development, workplace authenticity, feedback culture, and fin

This week I'm chatting with Paige Mariah about her transformative career journey. Paige shares her experience moving from Chicago to London for grad school, building a successful career as a full-time content creator abroad, and her recent transition back to corporate America working for Kellogg. She discusses overcoming imposter syndrome, embracing change despite fear, and finding work-life balance after experiencing the freedom of self-employment. This conversation explores the reality behind social media's highlight reel, the importance of patience during major life transitions, and the empowering message that it's okay to pivot your career at any age. Paige's authentic perspective offers valuable insights on finding your path and honoring what's best for you at different stages of life.Paige's YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@PaigeMariahChapters:00:00 Introduction and Background01:19 Transitioning to Another Country04:41 Returning to the United States06:13 Dealing with Social Perception09:07 The Importa

This week I'm chatting with entrepreneur, actress, and wellness advocate Vanessa Simmons. Known for her role on Run's House and co-founding the successful footwear brand Pastry, Vanessa opens up about her entrepreneurial journey, sharing valuable insights on knowing when to pivot in business and the importance of mental health awareness.In this episode, Vanessa discusses her new wellness platform U4IA, an educational hub focused on fact-based beauty tips and mental health resources. She reveals how her father Rev Run's self-care practices influenced her own wellness philosophy, and shares practical advice on breaking the cycle of hustle culture through intentional breathing, journaling, and rest.Discover how motherhood has deepened her self-awareness and shaped her leadership style, while learning actionable strategies for handling rejection and transforming perceived failures into valuable lessons. Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to make your next business move, someone interested in wellness practice

In this inspiring conversation, I reconnect with a longtime friend of the podcast, Dominique B. Fluker, whose journey I've witnessed from PR agency copywriter to nationally recognized multimedia journalist and contributing lifestyle editor at Essence Magazine. Dominique shares the pivotal moments that shaped her bold career transitions—from quitting TikTok and moving to LA without a job or graduate school acceptance, to walking red carpets and interviewing celebrities like Oprah. With raw honesty, she discusses overcoming personal tragedy, using intuition to guide professional decisions, and balancing ambition with meaningful relationships. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone considering a career change, building their personal brand, or seeking work-life balance. Dominique's story proves that with tenacity, faith, and strategic networking, you can create the fabulous life you deserve without regrets.Dominique's website - https://dominiquebfluker.com/Takeaways:Dominique emphasizes the importance

Chatting with Whitney Ferris, an executive coach with over two decades of corporate experience. Tune in to hear invaluable insights on leadership, overcoming self-doubt, and thriving in your professional journey. Whitney shares her journey from corporate sales to executive coaching, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and intentional career moves. She delves into her creation, the Excellence Equation, an eight-step framework designed to help professionals achieve big goals despite uncertainty. Whitney also discusses key tips for finding the right coach, the importance of aligning personal and professional values, and how to take ownership of your career development. 00:00 Welcome to the Switch, Pivot, or Quit Podcast00:36 Introducing Whitney Ferris: Executive Coach01:09 Whitney's Journey: From Corporate to Coaching02:09 Navigating Career Pivots and Internal Moves06:21 The Importance of Finding the Right Coach08:17 Overcoming Underestimation and Proving Yourself10:36 Handling Pressure and Trusting the P

It's tempting to want to find a way around the work or potential struggle, but the process often offers more than we know we need. 

This week the conversation touches on the importance of self-leadership, managing difficult conversations with your manager, and staying fulfilled at work amidst uncertainty. Elizabeth Lotardo offers actionable advice on upskilling, finding purpose in your current role, and maintaining meaningful workplace relationships. The episode also delves into the challenges and strategies of leading without formal authority and managing career burnout. This insightful discussion is packed with practical tips for anyone navigating personal and professional transitions.TakeawaysSelf-leadership is crucial in today's evolving work environment.The pandemic has shifted how we view job security and fulfillment.Finding purpose in your current role can enhance job satisfaction.Building relationships at work is essential for a positive experience.Upskilling is a proactive way to manage career uncertainty.Navigating career transitions requires careful consideration of personal motivations.Community support can significantly impac

This week I'm sharing observations about the challenges of the one-sided nature of giving. I share my frustrations and the hidden labor that goes unnoticed. We'll explore how setting boundaries and rephrasing requests can ensure mutual benefits. Plus, I’m stirring up some self-reflection on our giving-and-taking dynamics. Tune in to hear my thoughts, stories, and tips on fostering respectful and reciprocal professional relationships. Let's make those connections real and valuable!Timecodes:00:00 Introduction and Host's Background00:40 The Emotional Labor of Giving02:37 Challenges of Podcast Guest Requests03:40 The Importance of Reciprocity08:14 Setting Boundaries and Expectations21:27 Crafting Effective Communication24:32 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

We're talking about the intriguing paradox of being a 'hardworking, lazy girl.' We'll explore the shift away from hustle culture towards honoring our need for rest, and how you can be both incredibly productive and selectively lazy. We'll look at strategic ways to manage your energy, use time blocking, automate tasks, and practice strategic procrastination. Embrace your natural productivity rhythms and learn why rest is an essential part of being productive. Join me as we unpack this unique mindset and make it work in your favor. Let's redefine what it means to be both hardworking and lazy!https://www.ahyianaangel.com/Tricia Hersey (Author mention) - https://thenapministry.wordpress.com/Time Codes:00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:25 The Shift from Hustle Culture01:17 Embracing Laziness02:22 The Hardworking, Lazy Girl Paradox04:39 Strategies for Success08:33 Energy Peaks and Time Blocking13:54 Automation and Elimination16:52 Implementation Intentions and Strategic Procrastination20:03 Emotional Side of Bein

This week I'm guiding you through a practical framework called the Clarity Compass, designed to help you achieve clarity when you're at a career and life crossroads. We delve into the concept of internal misalignment that often hides behind external success, and I share my own experiences of feeling stuck in a seemingly perfect job. We'll conduct a values excavation, create an alignment matrix, and engage in a visualization exercise to help you align your future decisions with your true self. By the end of this episode, you'll have actionable steps to commit to one small change within the next 24 hours, making meaningful career transitions a reality. Join me in this journey toward clarity and alignment, and let's make moves together!00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome00:43 Understanding the Sunday Night Dread03:51 The Clarity Compass Framework05:31 Myth Busting: Finding True Clarity06:07 Personal Story: The PR Job Realization10:50 Values Exploration Exercise16:49 Creating Your Alignment Matrix22:59 Visualizat

I'm finally spilling the tea on where I've been since 2021. We're chatting about my initial reasons for pausing the podcast, including burnout and feeling overwhelmed by the saturation of the podcasting space. I'm giving details on what I've been up to talking about my professional endeavors, such as working on a book, consulting on the LinkedIn Podcast Network, and more. I'm also introducing Growth Circles by Switch, Pivot or Quit and if you're interested in learning more get on my email list at www.AhyianaAngel.com!Timecodes:00:00 Welcome and Introduction01:05 Why I Pressed Pause on the Podcast06:33 Realizations During the Break12:03 Life in New York City13:42 Travel Adventures22:13 Personal Growth and Hobbies27:06 Professional Updates36:49 Embracing Change and Growth Circles40:19 Closing Remarks