Summary:

In this deeply reflective solo episode, I explore the often-overlooked space between what was and what’s next—the transition gap. I share what it was like to leave a significant brand and spend three years in what I now call the “runway,” a season that felt quiet, disorienting, and deeply uncomfortable at times—but also essential to who I’ve become as a leader.

This episode is an invitation to slow down, release old identities, and trust the timing of your evolution. Instead of rushing toward the next title, business, or role, I talk about why honoring the gap matters, how joy can become a leadership compass, and what it really takes to prepare for a powerful takeoff. If you’re in a season of change and wondering when things will finally click—this conversation is for you.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

The Transition Gap Isn’t Failure—It’s a Runway

I reframe the space between leaving a known identity and stepping into what’s next as preparation, not lost time. The runway is where alignment happens.

Audience follow-up → Where are you pressuring yourself to “take off” before you’re ready?

The Brand Hangover Is Real

After leaving a big role or brand, I noticed how many habits, expectations, and validation loops I was still carrying. I call this the brand hangover—and it can quietly keep us stuck.

Audience follow-up → What titles, systems, or external validation are you still holding onto that no longer fit who you’re becoming?

Joy Is a Leadership Strategy, Not a Reward

I share why joy isn’t something we earn after success—it’s something we must cultivate during uncertainty to guide better decisions and healthier leadership.

Audience follow-up → What genuinely brings you joy right now—and are you letting it lead?

The Quiet Is Where Identity Gets Rebuilt

The gap is quieter. There’s less recognition and fewer external markers of success—but that silence helped me hear myself again.

Audience follow-up → How comfortable are you being unseen while you grow?

Momentum Comes After Release

Momentum didn’t come for me until I started shedding old patterns, timelines, and expectations that no longer served me. Preparation happens long before the lift-off.

Audience follow-up → What do you need to release before your next chapter can begin?

🔎 Mentioned in the Episode:

1. The “Runway” Metaphor – How I think about transition as preparation, not stagnation
2. Brand Hangover – The lingering identity and expectations after leaving a major role
3. My Three-Year Reset – A season of rebuilding, reflection, and recommitting to joy
4. Fire Horse Energy – A preview of what’s coming next: momentum, takeoff, and bold leadership
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✨ Reflection Prompts:

1. What season of transition am I in right now?
2. What parts of my old identity feel heavy instead of helpful?
3. If I trusted my timing completely, what would change?
4. How could joy guide my leadership decisions this week?