What happens when the company you've tied your identity to is suddenly gone?

In this episode of The Data Nerd Podcast, Nisar Ahmed sits down with Shachar Meir, former Meta leader turned independent data advisor, to explore one of the most difficult realities professionals face today: layoffs, career uncertainty, and life after big tech.

Drawing from his experiences at Meta, PayPal, and over 20 years in data, Shachar shares what it felt like to walk away from a major tech company and how that transition reshaped his perspective on work, identity, and career growth. Together, they discuss the changing relationship between employers and employees, why job security feels different than it did a decade ago, and how professionals can build resilience in an era of constant change.

The conversation also dives into freelancing, side hustles, communication skills, and why success in data careers often depends on much more than technical expertise.

This isn't just a conversation about layoffs. It's a conversation about building a career that isn't defined by a company logo.

Tune in to learn:

• Why layoffs can feel like losing part of your identity
• How the employer-employee relationship has changed since COVID
• What life after Meta taught Shachar about career ownership
• Why freelancing isn't for everyone and what it really takes to succeed
• The importance of building skills beyond technical expertise
• Why communication is often more valuable than technical ability
• How to think about big tech careers in today's job market
• Why your job should never become your entire identity

Whether you're navigating a career transition, working in big tech, or simply thinking about your long-term career growth, this episode offers practical lessons and honest perspectives from someone who's lived through it.

Shachar Meir on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/shacharmeir/

Shachar's Website:
https://shacharmeir.com/

Shachar's YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@ShacharMeir