Former NPR employee Yowei Shaw discusses her feelings after being laid off, exploring emotional turmoil, identity crisis, societal shame, and rejection. She reflects on the impact of layoffs on individuals and the importance of sharing their stories. The episode delves into the historical context of job loss and the struggles of navigating layoffs, highlighting the emotional rollercoaster experienced by those affected.
Layoffs can trigger deep feelings of inadequacy and rejection, impacting self-worth.
Unemployment stigma can lead to negative consequences like reduced earnings and discrimination.
Layoffs bring layered trauma, survivor guilt, and emotional distress, shaping personal narratives.
Deep dives
Overview of NPR Layoffs
The podcast episode delves into the personal experience of the host, Yo-e-Shaw, who was laid off from NPR along with many colleagues due to budget shortfalls triggered by an advertising downturn. Despite having severance, savings, and support, Yo-e-Shaw felt devastated and struggled with feelings of inadequacy and rejection, questioning his worth and performance.
Exploring Layoff Stigma
The episode examines the stigma and shame surrounding layoffs, highlighting the impact on individuals' self-worth and societal perceptions. Research shows that unemployment stigma can lead to negative outcomes like reduced earnings, increased health risks, and discrimination in job searches, affecting both mental and physical well-being.
Layoff Trauma and Personal Stories
Through personal stories like those of Miles and Elliot, the podcast showcases the layered trauma associated with layoffs, including survivor's guilt, emotional distress, and societal biases. The narrative explores complex emotions, intersectional identities, and the challenges faced by individuals navigating the aftermath of job loss.
Turning Adversity into Proxy Podcast
Despite facing setbacks, Yo-e-Shaw transforms his layoff experience into a new podcast venture called Proxy. By creating a platform to share emotional narratives, connect with experts, and provide comfort to others experiencing layoffs, Yo-e-Shaw strives to offer a space for shared experiences and personal growth.
Mission of Proxy Podcast
By sharing personal and research-based insights on layoffs, the Proxy podcast aims to challenge stereotypes, foster understanding, and offer support to individuals navigating the complexities of job loss. Through empathy, storytelling, and a commitment to destigmatization, Yo-e-Shaw's podcast seeks to create a community of resilience and compassion.
When Yowei Shaw got laid off from NPR, she didn't just feel bad. She was confused by how bad she felt and how long the bad lasted. So Yowei does what she usually does in a situation like this - she reported on her feelings. Then things go left.
From the episode:
Ofer Sharone's book The Stigma Trap: https://global.oup.com/academic/product/the-stigma-trap-9780190239244?cc=us&lang=en&
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