Real Money, Real Experts Preparing to Pivot: Career Lessons with Jacquie Carroll, AFC®
On this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Brandy Baxter sit down with Dr. Jacquie Carroll—educator, researcher, speaker, and Accredited Financial Counselor®—to talk about the power of the pivot.
Jacquie shares her non-linear career journey, from higher education and HR to financial counseling and now launching her own legacy project, GameKraft, a financial education game designed to help people learn in engaging, accessible ways.
Together, they explore:
- Why pivots—both planned and unexpected—are essential to personal and professional growth.
- How AFCs can prepare clients for an ever-changing workforce.
- The importance of leaning into community, mentorship, and side hustles.
- Why success isn’t about a straight path, but about being ready when preparation meets opportunity.
Whether you’re considering a career change, supporting clients through transitions, or just need inspiration to embrace the unexpected, this conversation is full of wisdom, encouragement, and practical takeaways.
Show Notes:
2:15 Jacquie’s Early Career
6:40 Discovering Financial Counseling
12:05 Embracing Career Pivots
18:20 Building Community & Connection
24:45 The Birth of GameKraft
32:10 Legacy & Impact
38:00 Jacquie's 2 Cents
Show Note Links:
Learn more about Jacquie's journey!
Connect with Jacquie on Linkedin!
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