Latest Episodes

Stay up to date on real stories from real people about why they left their jobs.

  • Thumbnail for 48: A Leader’s Awakening – Melina Cordero

    48: A Leader’s Awakening – Melina Cordero

    In this episode of “Why I Left,” host Brian Aquart sits down with leadership expert and thought leader, Melina Cordero. They explore Melina’s awakening as a leader and her decision to leave her corporate job to start her own business. Melina shares her experiences being on diversity committees and initiatives, the frustrations she encountered, and the realization that there may not be a true desire for change. She also discusses the impact of the pandemic on work dynamics, the importance of speaking up, and the need for workplaces to adapt to the post-2020 world. Join us as Melina shares her journey and provides valuable insights for both leaders and employees.

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  • Thumbnail for 47: Scaling Paid Social to $1 Million – Stacy Reed

    47: Scaling Paid Social to $1 Million – Stacy Reed

    Brian Aquart interviews Stacy Reed, a seasoned digital marketer and expert in scaling paid social to $1 million. Stacy shares her journey from working at big brands to starting her own company, where she helps clients map out their marketing strategy, creative messaging, and campaigns. Stacy also delves into topics such as increasing customer base and retention, the role of a Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) in solving big problems, and the importance of diversity in the marketing industry. Join us as Stacy Reed shares her insights and experiences in this engaging conversation.

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  • Thumbnail for 46: Standing Out From The Crowd – Julie Raeder

    46: Standing Out From The Crowd – Julie Raeder

    Join Brian Aquart in this episode of Why I Left as he sits down with former special education teacher Julie Raeder, who shares her journey of transitioning from the classroom to the tech industry. Julie opens up about the challenges of virtual teaching and the impact of COVID-19 on her decision to leave the education field. She discusses her passion for basketball, the importance of teamwork, and her desire for professional growth. Discover how Julie’s love for writing and her determination to stand out in the job market led her to find a new career that offers flexibility, autonomy, and exciting opportunities for learning and development.

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  • Thumbnail for 45: The Stepping Stones Needed For Success – Adam McChesney

    45: The Stepping Stones Needed For Success – Adam McChesney

    In this episode of Why I Left, host Brian Aquart sits down with Adam McChesney, owner at Hite Digital – St. Louis, a highly successful digital marketing agency. Adam shares his inspiring journey of leaving his corporate sales job during the pandemic and building a multi-million-dollar business. He emphasizes the importance of quality people, processes, and continuous learning in achieving success. Adam’s story is a testament to the possibilities that entrepreneurship brings, as he discusses his passion for helping others start and grow their businesses through digital marketing.

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  • Thumbnail for 44: Working On Yourself To Affect Change – Dr. Michelle Gordon

    44: Working On Yourself To Affect Change – Dr. Michelle Gordon

    In this episode of Why I Left, host Brian Aquart sits down with Dr. Michelle Gordon, a highly accomplished surgeon turned life coach, to discuss her journey of leaving a multimillion-dollar practice and reinventing herself during menopause. Dr. Gordon shares her experiences of burnout, the lack of business training in her medical career, and the frustrations she faced in the healthcare system. Listen as she navigates the challenges of menopause and offers insights on personal growth, finding one’s purpose, and creating the life of your dreams.

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  • Thumbnail for 43: Embracing Culture – Maura Barclay

    43: Embracing Culture – Maura Barclay

    Join Brian Aquart in this episode of Why I Left, as he dives into the insightful journey of Maura Barclay, a renowned coach and expert in embracing culture within the workplace. Discover how Maura’s unique approach to work styles, data-driven decision-making, and the challenges faced by leaders in a rapidly changing world can revolutionize your organization’s culture. Don’t miss out on Maura’s valuable advice and the powerful impact of finding the right fit within an equitable organizational structure.

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