This episode provides helpful guidance for:• Colleagues who don’t know how to relate to people being laid off• How to empathize with others being laid off• The right mindset for navigating layoffs• Connecting with your authentic self regardless of career status. In this episode of the Laid Off Legends podcast, host Leo engages with Dr. Valdesha DeJean, a renowned psychiatrist specializing in mental health, to discuss the emotional and psychological impacts of layoffs. They explore the definition of mental wellness, the importance of self-care, and how to navigate the uncertainty that comes with job loss. Dr. DeJean emphasizes the significance of empathic validation, connection with others, and maintaining a positive mindset during career transitions. The conversation highlights practical strategies for self-discovery and resilience, encouraging listeners to embrace their journey and seek support.Key Takeaways: • Mental wellness involves managing feelings and resilience over stress.• High-achieving professionals often struggle with uncertainty and perfectionism.• Self-care encompasses physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, and social aspects.• Isolation can fuel anxiety and depression during layoffs.• Empathic validation is crucial for processing emotions after a layoff.• Connection with others can aid in healing and navigating job loss.• Identity can be tightly coupled with career, making transitions challenging.• Mindset and connection are key factors in successfully navigating layoffs.• Taking a break after a layoff is essential for mental health.• Always seek adventure and self-discovery, regardless of career status.Dr. DeJean’s BiographyDr. Valdesha DeJean received her medical degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee. She completed her psychiatry residency training at Baylor College of Medicine’s Menninger Department of Psychiatry where she served as Chief Resident. She was the first Black female in the adult psychiatry program to receive this recognition. She received the RafaelHernandez, M.D. Award for Demonstration of Excellence in Clinical Psychiatry and Related Research from Meharry Medical College. She is also the recipient of the Distinguished Laughlin Fellow Merit Award and has been acknowledged as a Distinguished Fellow of the AmericanPsychiatric Association. Dr. DeJean has several publications on topics related to dementia, depression, PTSD, and personality disorders. She is a co-author of the textbook entitled "Professionalism in Psychiatry."She is a public speaker and mental health advocate who is committed to the mission of decreasing stigma and health disparities associated with mental illness by hosting and presentingeducational seminars throughout the community. She is currently treating patients in private practice at the Georgia Psychological TreatmentCenter in Marietta, GA. She specializes in the treatment of survivors of trauma, PTSD, and mood disorders. She has a unique focus of working with professionals in crisis.Her Book RecommendationsThe Untethered Soul by Michael SingerDaring Greatly: How the Courage to be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead by Brene BrownThe Power of Now by Eckart TolleContact information: Dr. Valdesha DeJean: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valdesha-dejean-m-d-30601723/

In this episode of the Laid Off Legends podcast, host Leo speaks with Courtney about her career journey, experiences with layoffs, and the emotional impact of job loss. Courtney shares insights on recognizing patterns that may indicate impending layoffs and emphasizes the importance of communication skills in navigating some of these realities. She reflects on her four layoffs, discussing the mental challenges and the need for self-compassion during the recovery process. She discusses the importance of asking the right questions when faced with team changes, the allure of pursuing trendy projects, and the necessity of building resilience during challenging times. Courtney emphasizes the significance of self-care, emotional well-being, and finding joy beyond work, ultimately highlighting that one's value is not solely defined by their job.If you’re a PM, or an individual working across teams and have experienced multiple org changes, this episode is for you!Resources: Courtney also has a podcast!Life Notes from Chair 17 is a podcast dedicated to sharing life stories, wisdoms and inspirations as we navigate life’s journey. She aims to share thoughtful stories, perspectives and insights from her own life journey as well as those of special guests and contributors. Tune in for good conversation about lessons learned, wisdoms gained, experiences had and inspirations shared. Be sure to subscribe atLife Notes from Chair 17

In this episode of the Laid Off Legends podcast, Leo welcomes Marcus Alexander, a licensed professional counselor, to discuss the emotional impact of job loss and the journey towards mental resilience.They explore the emotional life cycle that individuals experience after layoffs, including stages of grief, identity crisis, and the importance of self-perception.Marcus emphasizes the need for individuals to recognize their inherent value and skills, even after losing their job, and encourages listeners to reimagine their identity as they navigate this challenging transition.Marcus also discusses the importance of reimagining one's identity and value in the job market, especially after layoffs.He emphasizes the need for individuals to recognize their skills and contributions, and to view themselves as 'free agents' rather than victims of circumstance.The discussion also highlights the significance of community support during transitions, maintaining confidence and self-awareness, and the necessity of self-assessment to navigate future opportunities effectively.