Mary Olson-Menzel, national bestselling author and executive coach, joins Michelle K. Johnston to explore how professionals at every stage of their career can reignite their passion, pivot successfully, and thrive in a changing workplace. They discuss Mary’s 10-step pivot program—developed to guide clients from uncertainty to clarity—and how to harness the power of storytelling, intentional networking, and self-awareness. From recent grads to seasoned executives, listeners are reminded that purpose, self-care, and meaningful connection are the cornerstones of sustainable success. This conversation is a roadmap for anyone asking: What’s next?
Whether you’re seeking your first job or your final promotion, this conversation will help you find clarity, purpose, and direction. And as Mary puts it so beautifully, “When your light dims, it’s your responsibility to figure out how to turn it back on.”
CHAPTERS:
01:00 Introducing Mary Olson-Menzel and her career journey
02:00 Seismic shifts in the modern workplace
03:30 Challenges for new graduates in today's job market
05:00 The inspiration behind What Lights You Up
06:00 Overview of Mary’s 10-step pivot program
07:15 The power of storytelling in interviews
09:00 Navigating AI and resume screening
10:00 Unlocking the power of your network
12:00 LinkedIn Hour of Power strategy
14:00 Interview coaching and confidence building
15:00 Salary negotiation tips with gratitude
17:00 The importance of onboarding
18:30 How to pivot roles early in your career
20:00 Purpose, passion, and feeling valued
21:30 Embracing the squiggly career path
23:00 Framing short tenures and job changes
24:00 Mary’s superpower: knowing when to pivot
26:00 Burnout, self-care, and letting go
27:30 Coaching leaders to own their leadership signature
29:00 Aligning leadership with authenticity and energy
30:00 Final reflections on connection, purpose, and self-prioritization
32:00 Where to find What Lights You Up
Special thanks to our friend Brian Wayy for the theme music this season!
Track Title: My Heart's On Fire
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Website: https://michellekjohnston.com/