The Career Change Maker Podcast | Career Clarity & Career Pivots for Mid-Career Women

In this episode of the Career Change Maker Podcast, I explore what happens when your career looks successful on the outside, but feels misaligned on the inside.So many high-achieving women reach a point in mid-career where everything appears to be going well - the title, the experience, the trajectory...yet there’s a quiet sense of dissatisfaction that won’t go away. Not because they’ve failed, but because they’ve grown.I talk about why this tension is so common, why it often shows up after years of building momentum, and how staying in roles that no longer fit the season of life you’re in can slowly drain your energy. I also share reflections from my own journey of moving away from private practice as a corporate lawyer, and why permission, not urgency was the turning point for me.If you’ve been asking yourself “Is this it?” or going back and forth about whether you should make a change, this episode will help you pause, listen to the information your body and mind are giving you, and think more intentionally about what alignment looks like now.✅ What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy feeling dissatisfied in a “good on paper” career is more common than you thinkHow misalignment often shows up in mid-career for high-achieving womenThe hidden energy cost of staying in roles that no longer fit your season of lifeWhy clarity matters more than urgency when considering a career pivotHow to move out of mental looping and into intentional decision-making💡 Action Steps1. Look Ahead, Not Just Around Ask yourself how you would feel if nothing changed in your career by December 2026.2. Identify What’s Draining You Get specific about which parts of your work take the most energy — and why.3. Notice What You’re Tolerating Reflect on what you’re putting up with now that you wouldn’t have accepted in the past.Use these reflection questions:If nothing changed over the next year, how would I feel?What aspects of my role drain me the most — and why?What am I tolerating now that’s contributing to this misalignment?If you’re at a career crossroads and want support gaining clarity, I offer Career Pivot Clarity Calls - one-to-one conversations to help you understand where you are, what’s no longer working, and what your next best move could be. You can book yours using the link in the show notes.Send us a text

🎙️ Episode OverviewThis week’s episode is an extra-special milestone  the 300th episode of the Career Change Maker Podcast, recorded live at Allbright Everywoman. Joined by two powerhouse women, Hannah Awonuga (Founder, Inclusive Foundations Programme) and Alice Olins (Global Head of Learning & Content at Albright Everywoman), Janine leads a deeply insightful conversation on navigating career growth in uncertain times.From Hannah’s journey from global corporate leadership to entrepreneurship  while navigating grief, redundancy and reinvention to Alice’s transition from journalism to entrepreneurship and back into corporate leadership, this conversation offers grounded wisdom you can apply no matter where you are in your journey.If you're thinking about your next move, questioning your direction, or preparing for a new career chapter, this episode is full of powerful reminders that nothing is wasted, identity evolves, and you are the CEO of your career.💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode1. How to make bold career decisions — even when it’s easier to stay where you are.Hannah shares how she left a well-respected director role at Barclays, not because she disliked it, but because she was thinking long-term. The lesson? "Go when it’s easiest to stay, and stay when it’s easiest to go."2. Why self-awareness is your greatest career strategyAlice breaks down how carving out intentional time to think about your career, track your patterns, and reflect on what energises you is essential,  especially during uncertain times.3. The importance of having a ‘Personal Board of Directors’From negotiating salaries to navigating transitions, Hannah shares how having mentors and advisors who are “two or three steps ahead” has been transformational.4. How to think about your personal brand without boxing yourself inAlice reframes personal brand as strategic storytelling  flexible, responsive, and anchored in who you are and where you’re going, not just what you’ve done.5. Career growth requires communitym not doing it aloneFrom co-working communities to courageous friendships, both guests talk about the power of women supporting women through the messy middle of career change.🧭 Action StepsHere are three practical steps you can take after listening:Block out one hour a week for “Career CEO Time.” Use it for reflection, networking, journaling, or job searching. Treat it like a meeting with yourself because it is.Build (or update) your Personal Board of Directors. Identify 3–5 people ahead of you in the areas you want to grow and reach out.Audit your identity anchors. Write down (1) Who you are beyond your job title, (2) What people consistently praise you for and (3) What you want to be known for Use this to guide how you show up in rooms, interviews, and online.👉 If you’re already thinking ahead to 2026 and want guidance on shaping your next chapter, I would love to support you. Book a call to explore 1:1 coaching.🔗 Connect Connect with Alice Olins - Connect with Hannah Awonuga Connect with Janine Esbrand Send us a text

In this week’s episode, I’m joined by creative entrepreneur, writer and past client, Tosin Hunter, for a deeply honest conversation about navigating the messy middle of career change, making an intentional pause, and rebuilding a life and career that genuinely aligns with your values.Tosin spent over a decade in corporate recruitment roles at organisations like EY, UBS and Salesforce — climbing the ladder, getting promoted (even while on maternity leave), and doing everything “right.” But behind the scenes, she was exhausted, burnt out, and increasingly disconnected from the work she was doing.In our coaching journey, she began unpacking what wasn’t working, rediscovering her values, and reconnecting with parts of herself she’d buried for years. That inner work sparked a complete life shift. One that led her to leave corporate, honour her season of motherhood, rediscover her creativity, and eventually build Hunter Digital, the website design studio she now co-leads with her husband.If you’re in the midst of questioning your career, craving more alignment, or feeling the nudge to pause and reassess, this conversation will resonate deeply.🎙️ Episode OverviewYou’ll hear:What it really looked like for Tosin to walk away from a misaligned corporate careerThe mindset work, values exploration, and coaching conversations that surfaced hidden desiresHow an intentional pause helped her unravel old definitions of success and reconnect with creativity🌟 What You’ll Learn1. Your values are data. Misalignment is a messageDuring our coaching work, Tosin realised her values were family, creativity, fulfilment and simplicity… yet none of these were reflected in her day-to-day life. Recognising that misalignment became the catalyst for change. Before looking outward for roles, she started looking inward  and that clarity changed everything.2. A career pause can be productive, powerful and deeply clarifyingStepping away from corporate gave Tosin the time and emotional space to rediscover herself. Through journaling, creativity courses, volunteering and time with her daughter, she unravelled old beliefs and began shaping a life that actually worked for her. Her reminder? You don’t always need the next step. Sometimes you just need space.3. Nothing is wasted — your experience still countsTosin shares how easy it was to downplay her corporate achievements, until she realised those same skills ; storytelling, communication, listening, branding  are now leveraged in business. Every chapter prepared her for the next. Your past isn’t irrelevant; it’s raw material for what’s next.If you’re feeling the nudge to get support, consider this your sign to reach out and let’s explore how coaching with me can support your next chapter.🔗 Connect with Tosin🌐 Hunter Digital Studio: https://hunterdigital.studio/ 📸 Instagram: @hunterdigital.studio💼 LinkedIn: Tosin Hunter✍🏾 Substack: tosinhunter.substack.comSend us a text

🎙️ Episode OverviewIn this powerful conversation, Patricia and Janine explore what it really means to grow beyond a prestigious title and step into work that aligns with who you are becoming. Prestige often feels safe—law, tenure, the senior role everyone recognises on LinkedIn, but real growth begins when the title no longer fits the person wearing it.This episode unpacks why nothing is wasted in your career: every season, every skill, every chapter becomes transferable capital for what’s next. Together we explore identity beyond job titles, how to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset inside and outside organisations, and why success must be rooted in values rather than status.If you’ve outgrown a role, feel pulled toward new impact, or are navigating a career chapter that no longer aligns, this conversation will help you reframe your experience, re-anchor your direction, and move with clarity.What You’ll Learn in This Episode1. Why redefining success is essential once you’ve “made it.” We discuss how reaching the top of a traditional path can reveal misalignment — and why that discomfort is powerful data pointing toward your next chapter.2. How to separate identity from job title. You’ll learn how to honour your past work without letting it limit future possibilities, and how to reintroduce yourself by impact rather than labels.3. The mindset and practices that help you navigate career transitions with confidence. From transferring your toolkit to adopting an entrepreneurial operating system, this episode shows you how to make evidence-based decisions, iterate without self-judgement, and build a career anchored in values.Action Steps1. Audit your definition of success. Ask yourself: “Does this measure meaning or just status?” Rewrite your success metrics based on values, impact, and desired rhythms of work.2. Create your “portable skills” inventory. List the cognitive, strategic, and relational skills you’ve built that are transferable across industries and roles. This becomes your confidence and positioning tool.3. Separate your ‘what’ from your ‘how.’ Get clear on what you truly want next—impact, income range, type of work—before worrying about the logistics. Treat the “how” as a solvable project once the vision is set.Connect with us Connect with PatriciaVisit Patricia's website Connect with Janine ✨ Let’s Work Together ✨Through my 1:1 coaching programmes, I help ambitious professionals make bold but intentional career moves without sacrificing their lifestyle, income, or sense of self. Join the waitlist Send us a text

A powerful question can transform your approach to career-defining conversations. It helps you focus on what you want others to know about your experience and expertise. By considering the interviewer's perspective, you can tailor your responses effectively. Shift from impressing to demonstrating value with clear, memorable examples. This impactful prep strategy also applies to performance reviews and appraisals. Start with clear objectives to steer conversations confidently towards your goals.

Episode OverviewIn this powerful episode, I am joined by fellow career coach Michelle Schafer, who also specialises in career transition and leadership development. Together, they explore why mastering difficult conversations at work is a critical skill for professional growth and long-term fulfilment.Michelle shares her personal journey from experiencing job loss twice to building a thriving coaching practice — and how those experiences shaped her belief that real career advancement begins with courageous conversations. 💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How to confidently navigate difficult conversations that shape your career trajectoryThe mindset shift from waiting for opportunities to creating them through dialogueSimple ways to prepare for a meaningful career development conversationHow to raise your visibility by connecting with colleagues across your organisationWhy reflection and self-awareness are key to making aligned career decisions🧭 Action Steps:Reflect: Identify what gives you energy, what drains you, and your non-negotiables.Initiate: Schedule a dedicated career development conversation with your leader — don’t wait for the annual review.Connect: Build internal relationships by being curious, joining cross-functional projects, or engaging in workplace communities.✨ Memorable Quote:“It’s not your forever place. You’re not going to feel stuck forever — there are always choices and steps you can take.” — Michelle Schafer🔗 Connect with Michelle:LinkedIn: Michelle SchaferWebsite: mshafercoaching.caGet a free chapter of her book Cultivating Career Growth: Navigating Transitions with Purpose via her website.🔗 Connect with Janine LinkedIn: Janine EsbrandWebsite: Career Change Makers Join the waitlist to explore 1:1 coaching Send us a text

In this episode of the Career Change Maker Podcast, I explore what it means to redefine career success across different life seasons. From your 20s to your 40s and beyond.So many ambitious professionals find themselves questioning their path not because they’ve failed, but because they’ve grown. Whether you're stepping into motherhood, supporting ageing parents, or simply feeling out of alignment, this conversation will help you give yourself permission to pause, reflect, and pivot.I share my personal journey of shifting from corporate law to coaching, and why success needs to evolve with your changing values, energy, and capacity. If you're feeling unfulfilled in your work or wondering if it's "too late" to make a change this episode is your reminder that it’s okay to want something different now.✅ What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy your brain wasn’t fully ready when you first chose your career path (and why that matters)How life events like motherhood or midlife shifts can change what success looks likeThe importance of reassessing your values and capacity in every seasonHow misalignment between your work and your values can create burnout or uneasePractical reflection prompts to help you start redefining success on your terms💡 Action Steps1. Reflect on Your Current Season - Ask yourself what success looks like now—not based on old goals or outdated definitions.2. Identify Value Shifts - Get clear on what matters most to you right now (e.g. flexibility, impact, presence, legacy).3. Release or Renegotiate - Consider what roles, responsibilities, or expectations may need to shift in order to honour your new definition of success.Use Reflection Questions:What does success look like in this current season of life?What needs or values are driving me most right now?What might I need to release or renegotiate?______________________________________________________________________________✨ Let’s Work Together ✨If you're in a season of career transition and you're ready to create a path that's fully aligned with who you are now, I'd love to support you.Through my 1:1 coaching programmes, I help ambitious professionals make bold but intentional career moves without sacrificing their lifestyle, income, or sense of self.👉 Join the waitlist for 1:1 coaching with me📚 ResourcesConnect with me on LinkedIn: Janine EsbrandExplore more on the website: Career Change Maker WebsiteSend us a text

🎙️ Episode OverviewIn this episode of the Career Change Maker Podcast, I dive into the often-overwhelming process of making career decisions - especially for ambitious women facing a sea of possibilities. I explore why more time doesn't always mean more clarity and share how gathering the right kind of data can lead to confident, informed decisions.I introduce a three-part framework - internal, experiential, and market data - to help you move beyond indecision and toward meaningful action. Whether you’re considering a career pivot or feeling stuck where you are, this episode will guide you in aligning your next move with who you are and what truly matters.If you’ve been caught in analysis paralysis or waiting for “the right time” to act, this conversation is your nudge to start exploring intentionally - with strategy and self-awareness.✅ What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy having too many options can stall your progress.The difference between internal, experiential, and market data - and why you need all three.How to use data to make strategic, aligned career decisions.Why your definition of success may need an update before your next move.💡 Action StepsCollect Internal Data: Reflect on your values, strengths, and what energises you in your current work.Test Through Experience: Take small steps - volunteering, side projects, informational interviews - to gather real-world feedback.Research the Market:  Look into trends, opportunities, and industry needs to ensure your direction is viable. ✨ Let’s Work Together ✨If you’re ready to make your own transition with clarity and confidence, I’d love to support you. Through my coaching programmes, I help ambitious professionals and emerging leaders take ownership of their career journey, strengthen their leadership, and create meaningful impact.👉 Join the waitlist for 1:1 coaching with me. 📚 Resources Connect with Janine on LinkedIn: Janine Esbrand Career Change Maker Website Send us a textSend us a text

🎙️ Episode Overview In this episode of the Career Change Maker Podcast, I’m joined by the amazing Shannon Russell, a former TV producer turned entrepreneur and now author of Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life.Shannon shares her journey from working in a “dream job” in New York and Los Angeles to realising she wanted more balance, freedom, and presence with her family. We talk candidly about the messy middle of career transitions, how to recognise your transferable skills, and why your why is the anchor that keeps you steady through change.If you’ve been contemplating a pivot but fear the sacrifice or uncertainty, this conversation will show you that it’s possible to reinvent yourself, strategically and successfully, in your second act.What You’ll Learn in This Episode✅ How Shannon transitioned from TV production to running her own business.✅ The journalling method she used to uncover her transferable skills. ✅ How to create a financial and mental runway for a career change. ✅ The power of knowing your why when people question your choices.Action Steps💡 Journal your own skill inventory — write down everything you do in your role and circle what could be transferable elsewhere. 💡 Map your financial runway: define your “enough” number and how long you could sustain yourself while building something new. 💡 Anchor your why: write it down and keep it visible for moments when doubts or outside opinions feel overwhelming.✨ Let’s Work Together ✨If you’re ready to make your own transition with clarity and confidence, I’d love to support you. Through my coaching programmes, I help ambitious professionals and emerging leaders take ownership of their career journey, strengthen their leadership, and create meaningful impact.👉 Book a call with me here to explore your next steps.📚 Resources & Links Mentioned in This EpisodeShannon’s website: secondactsuccess.coBook: Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life by Shannon RussellConnect with Shannon on LinkedIn: Shannon RussellConnect with Janine on LinkedIn: Janine Esbrand Career Change Maker Website Send us a text

🎙️ Episode OverviewIn this episode of the Career Change Maker Podcast, I dive into the idea of a September reset — a chance to treat this time of year like a second new year for your career and personal growth.I share lessons from my own recovery journey after rupturing my Achilles, where I’ve had to lean into resilience, patience, and consistency. Even when progress felt invisible, I realised the importance of acknowledging the small wins that build strength over time.If you’ve been feeling stuck, off track, or in need of a boost, this episode will help you embrace September as the perfect moment to refocus, reset, and move forward with clarity.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Why September is a powerful time to reset and refocus your career. ✅ The hidden value of consistency, even when results aren’t immediately visible. ✅ How recovery and resilience can teach you to embrace growth in challenging seasons.Action Steps:💡 Reflect on one career or personal goal that you want to reset and refocus on this month. 💡 Identify where you’ve been putting in unseen effort — and celebrate that progress. 💡 Commit to one consistent action you’ll take this September to build momentum.✨ Let’s Work Together ✨If you’re ready to refocus your career and want support in navigating your next steps with clarity and confidence, I’d love to help. Through my coaching experiences, I work with ambitious professionals and emerging leaders to build momentum, strengthen their leadership, and create careers that feel fulfilling and impactful.👉 Learn more and apply to work with me HERE. Resources: Work with Janine Join our Career Navigator Substack communityFollow Janine Esbrand on InstagramConnect with Janine Esbrand on LinkedInSubscribe to Janine Esbrand's YouTube ChannelSend us a text