Podcast · Learning

Switch, Pivot or Quit

by Ahyiana Angel · English · Learning

One of the top business podcasts in a Google search. As your host who has been there and done that (P.S. my name is Ahyiana Angel) I'm providing an intimate look at navigating life transitions (personal and professional) on your own terms. This pod is for the person seeking encouragement, inspirati

New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 27 min
Latest: 28 Dec 2025
Language: English

Latest episode

28 Dec 2025 · 51 min

Dr. LaNysha Adams: From Cardiac Arrest Survivor to Redefining Success—Empowerment, Career Pivots, and Never Outshining the Master

What happens when a life-threatening cardiac arrest forces you to completely reimagine success? Dr. LaNysha Adams, 10-time award-winning author and TEDx speaker, shares her powerful journey from academic battles and entrepreneurial hustling to flatlining on her couch—and the profound transformation that followed. Discover why she says "you can be pivoted at any moment," the workplace power dynamics that nearly cost her a PhD, and how she went from chasing accolades to finding fulfillment in making green smoothies and teaching her kids to be self-sufficient. This conversation will challenge…

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Earlier episodes 29 most recent

S8 · E10 · 15 Dec 2025 · 25 min
From 25-Year Corporate Career to Life Coach: Kavita Ahuja on Making Midlife Transitions on Your Own Terms
What happens when a successful pharmaceutical executive walks away from a 25-year career because the voice inside grew too loud to ignore? Kavita Ahuja, founder of It's My Time Now coaching and host of The Midlife Reinvention podcast, shares her powerful journey of leaving corporate success behind at 50 to help other women navigate major life transitions. From grappling with cultural expectations to that pivotal moment when her sons asked, "Mom, what do YOU really want?"—Kavita reveals why so many accomplished women feel stuck despite looking successful from the outside. Discover how one…
S8 · E9 · 7 Dec 2025 · 41 min
From Burnout to Badass- How a Fortune 500 Executive Survived the Cultural Success Tax with Dana L Cox
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…
S8 · E8 · 16 Nov 2025 · 51 min
Why She Left It All Behind From Apple to Instagram: How One Woman Pioneered Social Media Strategy at Tech's Biggest Companies
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…
S8 · E7 · 9 Nov 2025 · 34 min
From Google to $100M Beauty Brand: How Kara Brothers Pivoted from Tech to StarFace President | Career Transition & Leadership
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…
S8 · E6 · 2 Nov 2025 · 10 min
The Playing Small Tax
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…
S8 · E5 · 26 Oct 2025 · 10 min
Shrinking to Fit vs. Expanding to Lead
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…
S8 · E4 · 20 Oct 2025 · 10 min
The Sunday Scaries Solution
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
S8 · E3 · 12 Oct 2025 · 14 min
Your Comfort Zone Has an Expiration Date
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!
S8 · E2 · 5 Oct 2025 · 11 min
Permission Slips Are for Elementary School
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 mode Why the authority you're seeking has to come from you The Internal Authority Audit: three powerful questions that reveal what you really want A simple permission practice you can do this…
S8 · E1 · 28 Sep 2025 · 14 min
The Invisible Excellence Trap: Why Being Really Good at Your Job Might Be Making You Invisible
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 trajectory The "strategic visibility" framework that…
S7 · E28 · 25 May 2025 · 46 min
Why Your Next Career Breakthrough Requires Blank Space with Sabina Nawaz
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…
S7 · E27 · 18 May 2025 · 29 min
From Content Creator to Corporate_Moving Abroad and Back with Paige Mariah
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…
S7 · E26 · 11 May 2025 · 25 min
Vanessa Simmons on Wellness, Self-Care, and Businesses Evolution After Pastry
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…
S7 · E25 · 4 May 2025 · 44 min
Interviewing Oprah Via Bold Pivots - Dominique B. Fluker on Switching Careers, J-School, and Building her brand
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…
S7 · E24 · 27 Apr 2025 · 36 min
Navigating Your Career Path with Whitney Faires - Authenticity, Leadership, and The Excellence Equation
Chatting with Whitney Faires, 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…
S7 · E23 · 20 Apr 2025 · 9 min
You Can't Skip the Process
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.
S7 · E22 · 13 Apr 2025 · 39 min
Mastering Self-Leadership & Career Growth with Elizabeth Lotardo
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. Book -…
S7 · E21 · 6 Apr 2025 · 27 min
The Giving/Receiving Imbalance - When You're Always the Resource
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 Background 00:40 The Emotional Labor of Giving 02:37 Challenges of…
S7 · E20 · 30 Mar 2025 · 25 min
I'm a Hardworking Lazy Girl - Can You Relate?
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!…
S7 · E19 · 23 Mar 2025 · 38 min
Finding Career Clarity: Aligning Your Career with Your Core Values
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…
S7 · E18 · 16 Mar 2025 · 42 min
While I Was Away - Burnout, Personal Growth, and Embracing Change
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 Introduction 01:05 Why I Pressed Pause on the…
S7 · E17 · 9 Mar 2025 · 23 min
Behind the Mic - Working with Megan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex and Finding Your Craft with Rebecca Sananés
This week I'm chatting with Rebecca Sananés, an accomplished executive producer and journalist. We get into her impressive career trajectory from public radio to leading podcasts for high-profile talent such as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex aka Prince Harry and Megan Markle. Rebecca shares her thoughts on professional nerves, the perpetual journey of improving one's craft, and the importance of self-awareness in career decisions. She also touches on the overlooked opportunities in the podcasting industry behind the microphone and the common misconception that producing successful podcasts…
S7 · E16 · 2 Mar 2025 · 29 min
Unlocking Job Opportunities Without Applying: A Conversation with Melanie Feldman
I'm looking back at a convo I think will spark ideas for you as you navigate looking for a new job or building your network. My guest is Melanie Feldman and she shares her unique journey from facing multiple job rejections to landing roles at top companies without applying. We discuss the importance of human connection, overcoming the fear of rejection, and crafting a standout presence to get hired. You'll gain valuable insights into navigating the job market, negotiating salaries, and finding fulfillment in your career. Practical advice and inspiring stories to help you make your next…
S7 · E15 · 23 Feb 2025 · 28 min
I Quit My Job - What I Wish I knew Before Quitting
We're discussing five essential questions to consider before making a career change. There is no magic key that will make everything make sense and ensure smooth sailing but answering these questions will give you a strong foundation to work from. https://www.ahyianaangel.com/ Takeaways: Making a career change is hard and requires careful consideration. Understanding your motivations is crucial for a successful transition. Identifying your strengths can help you find a fulfilling career path. Defining your non-negotiables can guide your decision-making process. Setting realistic expectations…
16 Feb 2025 · 33 min
Embracing Authenticity and Vulnerability with Ty Alexander
I'm speaking with Ty Alexander, a best-selling author, speaker, podcaster, wellness blogger, and DJ. We're exploring Ty’s journey of embracing vulnerability, shaped significantly by the grief over her mother's loss. Ty discusses how her multifaceted career—from being a wellness blogger to becoming a DJ—requires constant learning and adaptation. She shares insights into leveraging social media for career growth, the importance of trying and failing, and the necessity of documenting one’s journey. Ty also talks about balancing different roles and the ongoing healing and self-improvement…
9 Feb 2025 · 20 min
It's Not Always About You - Career Lessons from Tiffany Ashitey on Podcasting and Career Growth
This week, I talked to my talented friend Tiffany Ashita, a top podcast executive. We discussed her journey from intern at Showtime Networks to creating Essence Magazine's podcast network and becoming the U.S. Director of Content for ACAST. Tiffany shared insights on building a business from scratch, making tough decisions, and staying connected to your audience. She also gave aspiring podcasters and creators valuable advice about taking the long haul seriously. https://www.ahyianaangel.com/
S7 · E12 · 2 Feb 2025 · 23 min
MBA Dreams: When Business School Is (and Isn't) Your Next Career Move with Aniekeme Umoh
I sat down with Aniekeme Umoh, Founder of Aniekeme Admissions Consulting and a Wharton MBA graduate. We dived into her controversial take on imposter syndrome and discussed why getting an MBA isn't always the answer to career challenges. As someone who was once told she wouldn't get into a top business school, Aniekeme now helps others navigate the MBA admissions process, including one client who went from being rejected by five schools to getting accepted to all five with $250,000 in scholarships. We wrapped up with a powerful message about reframing the concept of "quitting" as an act of…
29 Jan 2025 · 7 min
Trailer for Switch, Pivot or Quit: 6 Years of Career Change Wisdom and Success Stories with Ahyiana Angel
The Switch, Pivot or Quit podcast started in 2017 and Host, Ahyiana Angel, shares some of the show's highlights, and key insights from spectacular guests over the years. This is a great place to start if you're a new listener. Featured Clips: 0:55 - Dr. Tega Edwin featured on " Finding Fulfillment: Dr. Tega Edwin on Transforming Unhappy Careers" 02:02 - Tanika Cabral featured on " Creating a Career Development Plan with Tanika Cabral " 02:33 - Jen Sincero , Author of You Are a Badass; featured on " Discover Your Inner Badass: Jen Sincero's Guide to Personal and Professional Growth " 02:59 -…
S7 · E11 · 27 Jan 2025 · 14 min
Mastering Leadership with Dr. Carol Parker Walsh on Becoming an Effective Leader
In part two with Dr. Carol, we discuss the common misconceptions around leadership roles, especially for women of color, and the importance of transitioning from a doer to a visionary. Dr. Carol shares actionable insights on rebranding yourself within an organization, the necessity of self-awareness, and the crucial soft skills needed in today's workplace.

About Switch, Pivot or Quit

Switch, Pivot or Quit is a English learning podcast from Ahyiana Angel. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: Ahyiana Angel
Language: English
Category: Learning
New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 27 min
Latest episode: 28 Dec 2025
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1193834591
Rights: Copyright Mayzie Media

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