People in Transition

Hosted by Bob Gerst

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Episodes

153

Latest episode

Aug 2026

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EN-US

About the show

"People in Transition" is your ultimate guide to navigating life's major career changes with confidence and excitement! Whether you're a student landing your first job, a professional between gigs, an aspiring entrepreneur ready to start your own business, or someone preparing for a well-earned retirement, we've got you covered. Each episode offers unique insights and practical tips from people who have successfully walked these paths themselves as well as helped many others in their journey. Join us for an inspiring and entertaining journey through the many transitions of life!

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60 recent

August 20, 2026Episode 15330 min

153. Endi Frydman - Career Coach ★ Executive Coach ★

For nearly 20 years, Endi has partnered with organisations through significant change and supported executives and professionals during pivotal career moments. She brings a unique perspective on both how organisations make talent decisions and how people can confidently navigate change and shape what comes next. As a coach, she helps executives understand their strengths and the value they bring, explore their options, and develop a practical strategy to achieve their goals. Today, Endi brings that combination of commercial experience, career-management expertise, curiosity, empathy, and a genuine desire to help people realize their potential to the conversation. And in this episode, we’re going to get practical about something almost everyone in a career transition faces: How do you actually approach the job search process in a way that gives you the best chance of success? Why is taking a breath and preparing strategically a better approach than immediately applying to every job you see? How can free online career tools help you better understand—and sharpen—your personal brand? Why do candidates often undermine their chances of making a strong first impression by not doing the work upfront—and how can you avoid that mistake? Why is it important to remember that networking is really just a conversation with a purpose? What does AIR mean, and how can you use it effectively in informational interviews and other career conversations? What interview formula does Endi recommend for achieving maximum success? Why should you learn from the events in an interview process that you can’t control, put them aside, and focus your energy on what you can control or influence? LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/endifrydman Because a career transition isn’t just about finding your next job. It’s about understanding where you’re going, knowing what you bring to the table, and making sure your next move is the right one. So take a breath, get prepared, and join us for the conversation. Send us Fan Mail

August 3, 2026Episode 15229 min

152. Nik Hemingway - Interview Preparation Expert | Resume Writer | Career Coach | Executive Coach

Whether you're looking for your first job, changing careers, transitioning from the military or government to the private sector, or simply trying to stand out in today's competitive job market, this episode is packed with practical advice you can use immediately. Our guest, Nicholette "Nik" Hemingway , is a career coach, interview preparation expert, résumé writer, executive coach, and the owner of Nike H Speaks LLC. A retired military officer with more than 25 years of leadership experience and extensive experience interviewing candidates at the city, county, state, and federal levels, Nik knows exactly what employers are looking for—and the mistakes that keep qualified candidates from getting hired. She is also the author of 5 Secrets to Nail That Job! and has helped countless professionals gain the confidence and skills to land their next opportunity. In this episode, we discuss: The single most important thing every job seeker should be doing today The transferable skills employers value most How to build meaningful professional relationships that open doors Successfully transitioning from government or military service to the private sector The unique challenges facing older job seekers—and strategies to overcome them Two powerful insights from Nik's book, 5 Secrets to Nail That Job! Connect with Nik: Website: www.nikehspeaks.com Author Page: www.amazon.com/author/nhemingway LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/nicholetteh Email: info@nikehspeaks.com Send us Fan Mail

July 20, 2026Episode 15130 min

151. Marcia Wall - Career Success Coach

In this episode of " People in Transition" , I welcome Marcia Wall, a Career Success Coach, career counselor, trainer, and author who has dedicated her career to helping individuals navigate change, discover their strengths, and achieve professional success. Through her strengths - based and holistic coaching approach, Marcia helps job seekers and career changers build confidence, identify opportunities, and move forward with purpose and joy. During our conversation, Marcia shares valuable insights for anyone navigating a career transition, including: Why a growth mindset and hope are essential for making progress during coaching and career transitions. Why your job search is a journey, not a destination , and how embracing the process can reduce frustration and create new opportunities. How to combat imposter syndrome by focusing on the evidence of your accomplishments, strengths, and past successes. How tools like Marcia's Best Self Reflection Exercise , SkillsScan, and Gallup StrengthsFinder can help identify transferable skills and uncover new career possibilities. Why job seekers often make the mistake of focusing only on themselves instead of understanding an employer's needs and challenges. Why you don't have to be perfect to move forward - and why remembering your past successes can help build confidence for what's next. Connect with Marcia Wall: mwall1000@gmail.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/mwall1000 www.careercounselingconnection.com/louisiana/new-orleans/career-counseling/marcia-wall If you're navigating a career change, job search, or professional transition, this episode offers practical advice, encouragement, and actionable insights to help you move forward with confidence. After listening, please share the episode with your colleagues, friends, and professional network. Your next opportunity - or someone else's - may begin with a single conversation. Send us Fan Mail

July 6, 2026Episode 15030 min

150. Geoff Curtis - Communications Executive | Connector | Founder | Philanthropist | Author

Few people talk openly about what happens when a successful career ends and the identity built around it suddenly disappears. In this episode of People in Transition , I sit down with Geoff Curtis, a former Chief Communications Officer with nearly three decades of leadership experience in healthcare, biotech, and corporate affairs. After the acquisition of the company where he served on the executive team, Geoff faced a challenge many accomplished professionals experience but rarely discuss: who are you when the title and career that defined you are gone? That experience inspired his book, Embracing Your Own Purgatory , a candid exploration of identity loss, transition, purpose, and reinvention. Rather than offering a neatly packaged success story, Geoff shares lessons learned while navigating the uncertainty between who he was and who he is becoming. His honesty and insights make this conversation especially relevant for anyone facing career disruption, retirement, burnout, or a major life transition. In our conversation, Geoff discusses: Why he chose the word “purgatory” and the value of becoming comfortable being “unfinished” The emotional signs of major transitions and how to recognize them Why constant busyness can mask deeper issues What he means by “You can’t outwork the identity loss problem” How celebrating a quick comeback can sometimes send the wrong message Why “presence” became one of the hidden costs of career success How achievement, self-worth, purpose, and identity become intertwined—and what happens when that connection is disrupted Connect with Geoff Curtis: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/geoffreycurtis Email: geoffcurtis1@gmail.com Book: Embracing Your Own Purgatory Thank you for listening to People in Transition . If this conversation resonates with you, please share it with others navigating change. I also welcome your thoughts, reactions, and questions. Your feedback helps continue the conversation and support others facing similar transitions. Send us Fan Mail

June 24, 2026Episode 14931 min

149. John Gates - Corporate Recruiting Executive | Pay Negotiation Coach | Best-Selling Author

This week on “ People in Transition” , I had the pleasure of speaking with John Gates, and what a fascinating conversation it was. John brings a unique perspective to salary negotiation and career transitions. As a former Head of Global Recruiting for multiple Fortune 300 and Fortune 500 organizations, he has spent decades sitting on the hiring side of the table, leading talent acquisition functions for major companies including Marathon Oil, Peabody Energy, ITT, and Asante. Today, he leverages that insider knowledge as a compensation negotiation coach, helping executives and professionals secure stronger compensation packages while preserving positive relationships with employers. He is also the author of the international best-selling book Act Your Wage and founder of Salary Coach Academy, where he teaches practical, low-risk strategies that help candidates confidently navigate compensation discussions. What makes John’s approach so compelling is that it challenges much of the conventional wisdom surrounding salary negotiations. Rather than relying on aggressive tactics or ultimatums, he teaches candidates how to negotiate thoughtfully, strategically, and effectively—often resulting in significantly better outcomes while strengthening their standing with prospective employers. During our conversation, we explored several of the most important - and misunderstood - aspects of compensation negotiations, including: Why do highly accomplished professionals often struggle to negotiate their compensation effectively? The fears that hold candidates back and how those fears can quietly undermine their earning potential. The smartest and safest ways to answer the inevitable question: “What are your salary expectations?” How candidates can use leverage appropriately and professionally throughout the job search process. The concept of memetic desire and how it can influence an employer’s perception of a candidate. Why the popular advice to “know your worth and demand it” can sometimes work against job seekers during negotiations. These topics - and many more - are discussed in this insightful episode with John. Whether you are actively searching for your next opportunity, preparing for a promotion, or simply want to understand how compensation decisions are really made, this conversation offers practical guidance that could have a meaningful impact on your career and lifetime earnings. To learn more about John Gates, visit his LinkedIn profile or explore Salary Coach Academy at salarycoachacademy.com . Send us Fan Mail

June 7, 2026Episode 14830 min

148. Dr. Danny Brassell - helps executives tell stories that win clients and inspire action

Dr. Danny Brassell is a globally recognized speaker, author, coach, and storytelling expert who has spent more than three decades helping individuals and organizations communicate with greater clarity, confidence, and impact. Often referred to as “Jim Carrey with a Ph.D.,” Danny blends high energy, humor, and practical wisdom to inspire audiences around the world. A former inner-city teacher, university professor, and distinguished visiting professor at The American University in Cairo, Danny has delivered more than 3,500 presentations across four continents and authored more than 20 books focused on leadership, literacy, motivation, and communication. Today, as co-founder of WellCrafted Story, he helps entrepreneurs, executives, and business owners craft stories and presentations that convert audiences into clients and inspire meaningful action. Throughout his career, Danny has remained passionate about one central mission: helping people unlock the power of their own stories. From teaching bilingual students in South Central Los Angeles to coaching leaders and business owners on stages worldwide, Danny believes the right story told at the right time can transform lives, businesses, and communities. Some of the powerful ideas Danny and I explored during our conversation included: What if becoming an expert starts with embracing being an amateur first? Danny discussed the importance of “the power of the pause” and why transitions become easier when you stop expecting yourself to have all the answers immediately. Protecting your confidence and identity during periods of change is critical to long-term success. How do you overcome imposter syndrome without overwhelming yourself? Danny emphasized starting with the “low-hanging fruit” — focusing first on smaller groups, familiar environments, and manageable opportunities before accelerating into larger projects and bigger stages. Why can’t you outsource your growth? As Danny said, “You can’t pay others to do your push-ups.” Success requires repetition, discipline, and putting in the reps yourself. There are no shortcuts to building confidence, competence, and credibility. What role do emotions and grief play during transition? Danny reminded us that all emotions experienced during major life or career changes are normal. Eventually, you arrive at a place of indifference — and often, that is where you can operate most effectively and make the clearest strategic decisions. Can you become a great leader without being a reader? Danny shared his belief that while not every avid reader becomes a great leader, it is difficult to think of a truly effective leader who is not a committed reader and continuous learner. Lifelong learning is not optional for sustained growth. Why is execution more valuable than education alone? One of Danny’s most impactful insights was: “Education is valuable, but execution is priceless. Knowledge is not power; only applied knowledge is power. Knowing the right thing to do and doing the right thing are two very different things.” The challenge for all of us is to move from learning into action. As a special gift to listeners of the podcast, Dr. Danny Brassell is offering a free 30-minute phone call to help you create your own story and system that converts conversations into clients. Learn more at freestorymap.com . Send us Fan Mail

May 26, 2026Episode 14728 min

147. Paul Comfort - Best Selling Author| Keynote Speaker| YouTube & Podcast Creator, Producer & Host

Few conversations leave you inspired to think differently about your career, leadership, and personal purpose. My discussion with Paul Comfort did exactly that. Through his own experiences and insights, Paul shared valuable lessons about discovering purpose, building meaningful relationships, and intentionally shaping a fulfilling career path. Paul Comfort is a nationally recognized transportation executive, bestselling author, keynote speaker, educator, and thought leader in public mobility and leadership development. He is also the creator and host of the widely followed Transit Unplugged podcast and video series. His upcoming book, Find Your X Factor: Follow Your Personal Treasure Map to Purpose , reflects many of the themes we discussed — discovering the intersection between your passions, abilities, and purpose. Throughout our discussion, several powerful ideas emerged: • How much does your very first job shape the trajectory of your career — even if you ultimately end up somewhere completely different? Paul emphasized that while your starting point may not define your destination, it often establishes the habits, skills, and mindset that influence every opportunity that follows. • What happens when your interests, passions, and natural abilities finally intersect? According to Paul, this intersection is the “sweet spot” of your best self — the place where purpose, fulfillment, and impact align. Finding that intersection is not just a career strategy; it is often the clearest path toward discovering your purpose in life. • What if your current role does not fully align with both your passions and strengths? Paul encouraged the idea that even if you cannot immediately find the perfect combination, having at least one — either meaningful interests or strong abilities — present in your work can provide fulfillment and motivation while you continue building toward something greater. • How do you actually discover who you are and what you want? Paul spoke about the importance of reflection: taking time to evaluate your experiences, recognize what you have consistently been good at, and identify the moments that energized you most. Once that intersection becomes clear, intentional action becomes the bridge between where you are and where you want to go. • Why is follow-up one of the most overlooked keys to successful networking? As Paul explained, meaningful relationships are rarely built in a single meeting. The real value of “I met a man” moments comes from intentional follow-up, continued engagement, and the creation of authentic connections over time. • And what if communication does not come naturally to you? Paul offered practical encouragement: communication is a skill that can be developed. Whether through programs like Dale Carnegie speaking courses or by intentionally studying effective communicators as role models, growth in communication and public speaking can dramatically improve leadership presence and confidence. Our conversation was a reminder that successful careers are rarely accidental. They are built through reflection, intentionality, relationships, continuous learning, and the courage to align your work with who you truly are. Paul Comfort’s insights challenge us not simply to pursue careers, but to pursue purpose. For more information about Paul and his resources, go to https://findyourxfactor.ai/. Send us Fan Mail

May 10, 2026Episode 14631 min

146. Gregg Lunceford - Managing Director/Wealth Advisor/Life Transition Scholar

Welcome to this week’s episode of " People in Transition" . I’m your host, Bob Gerst, and today I’m joined by Gregg Lunceford, PhD, CFP®, a seasoned wealth advisor and thought leader who is redefining how we think about retirement. As a Managing Director at Mesirow and an academic researcher focused on 21st-century retirement transitions, Gregg brings a rare combination of real-world experience and deep intellectual insight to this conversation. With more than two decades of advising individuals approaching and entering retirement, his work goes far beyond finances - exploring identity, purpose, and what it truly means to thrive in life’s “third age.” Gregg is also the author of " Exit from Work" , where he challenges conventional thinking and opens the door to a more intentional, fulfilling vision of retirement. In this engaging and thought-provoking discussion, Gregg and I explore several important yet often overlooked aspects of retirement. We dig into why so many people struggle to feel excited about retirement - touching on the loss of structure, daily accomplishment, and social connection that work provides - and what can be done to address those challenges. Gregg introduces the idea of building a “coaching identity” and explains how it can provide continuity and purpose during this transition. We also discuss how retirement doesn’t have to be a binary, all-or-nothing decision; it can be a gradual shift, working fewer days over time. Along the way, we examine the untapped sense of empowerment that retirement can offer, the importance of replacing “kinship with friendship,” and how evolving life stages - from youth to middle age to the “third age” - shape our satisfaction and happiness. This is a conversation that challenges assumptions and opens up new possibilities for anyone thinking about what comes next. Gregg offers practical insights and a refreshing perspective on how to approach retirement not as an ending, but as a beginning filled with opportunity. If you’re preparing for this transition - or even just starting to think about it - this episode will give you plenty to consider. To learn more about Gregg and his work, visit his LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregg-lunceford-phd-cfp%C2%AE-3aa83a15/ Send us Fan Mail

April 27, 2026Episode 14533 min

145. Steve Turner - Rockstar Publicist and Author of "PR THAT WORKS"

In this episode of “ People in Transition” , we’re joined by Steve Turner, co-owner and principal of Solomon Turner PR, an award-winning agency he co-founded more than three decades ago. Steve is an accomplished public relations professional, author, and keynote speaker. Throughout his career, he has assisted organizations ranging from multinational corporations to nonprofit entities in enhancing their visibility, credibility and achieving measurable outcomes through strategic communication initiatives. Steve is the author of PR That Works – Real Strategies. Real Campaigns. Real Results , where he shares practical insights drawn from his extensive experience leading high-impact campaigns. His work has been featured in major outlets including Forbes , The Wall Street Journal , and the Associated Press , and he’s widely recognized for his ability to translate complex messaging into compelling, results-driven narratives. In our conversation, Steve brings that same clarity and practicality to the topic of career transitions and personal branding. During our discussion, Steve shared several key insights for professionals navigating change: Strong candidates “look the part” of the role they’re pursuing - in every form of communication. Your message - whether written, spoken, or visual - must consistently align with your target role and brand. The most important question to answer is: What problems can you solve for the employer? Effective networking and elevator pitches should spark curiosity and leave others wanting to hear more - storytelling is a powerful tool here. A common misstep in personal branding is failing to remove content or signals that may work against you. The best networkers operate as “go-givers,” focusing on helping others as a path to mutual success. Successful job seekers are intentional: they define their objective, understand their audience, tailor their message, and continuously measure and refine their approach. These insights - and more - make this episode a practical guide for anyone looking to reposition themselves professionally or strengthen their personal brand during times of transition. For more information on Steve, visit his LinkedIn profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/steveturnerpr/ or learn more at solomonturner.com. Send us Fan Mail

April 5, 2026Episode 14431 min

144. Sue Maitland - Life & Career Transitions Coach for High-Achieving Professionals

In this episode of “ People in Transition” , we’re joined by Sue Maitland, an ICF-accredited life and career transitions coach with over 13 years of experience helping high-achieving professionals navigate midlife change and create more meaningful, fulfilling lives. After a successful 20+ year career in IT consulting, Sue reached a point many can relate to - her life looked great on paper, but it no longer felt aligned. That realization sparked a bold career pivot, leading her to support others who feel stuck, uncertain, or ready for change but unsure where to begin. Today, she works one-on-one with clients, leads workshops, and runs a thriving global community designed to help people gain clarity, confidence, and direction in their next chapter. In this conversation, we explore a topic that resonates with so many - how to navigate midlife transitions, overcome self-doubt, and build a life that actually feels as good as it looks. Key topics we discussed: The signs of being “successful but stuck,” including dreading the start of the work week, feeling underutilized, and questioning what you’ll have to show for your efforts Why change is inherently difficult - our brains are wired for consistency, making career transitions especially challenging The importance of doing real-world research before pursuing a new path (including Sue’s example of the “romantic” idea of winemaking vs. the reality of it being farming) Understanding imposter syndrome, which affects over 70% of people, and how it shows up as a fear of being exposed as not good enough The concept of keeping a journal to track your wins, to reflect on and appreciate your accomplishments Practical advice for getting unstuck: pausing to reflect, identifying your core values, and aligning your work with both your strengths and your passions …and much more around gaining clarity, building confidence, and taking meaningful steps forward. Connect with Sue Maitland: Website: https://www.suemaitland.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suemaitland/ Email: sue@suemaitland.com If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to leave a rating and review - it really helps others discover the show. And if you know someone who might benefit from this conversation, share it with them. Your next chapter might be closer than you think . . . Send us Fan Mail