Ready to turn a layoff into your launchpad? 🚀 In this episode of the Laid Off Legends podcast, I sit down with Diana M. Jones—a powerhouse in product and sales strategy—to unpack her journey through corporate upheaval and back again.

From the shock of that pink slip to conquering imposter syndrome, Diana’s story is packed with actionable insights on:

Bouncing Back from Layoffs: How to process the immediate fallout and channel that momentum forward

Finding Your True Fit: Why aligning your values with your next role makes all the difference

Conquering Imposter Syndrome: Practical strategies to own your expertise and step boldly into new opportunities

Work‑Life Balance & Growth: Lessons on setting boundaries, prioritizing your well‑being, and growing stronger through community support

🔔 Don’t miss this one—whether you’re freshly laid off or simply plotting your next career move, Diana’s advice will fuel your comeback.

👉 Subscribe for biweekly episodes packed with real‑world tips and triumphant stories from laid‑off legends just like you.

💬 Join our Slack community to connect with peers, access exclusive resources, and keep the conversation going in #LaidOffLegends: www.leagueoflaidofflegends.com/community

👍 If you found value here, hit that Like button and share with someone who needs a boost today!

In this episode of the Laid Off Legends podcast, host Leo speaks with Dr. Dalia Perez, a former Microsoft product leader who shares her journey through layoffs, the importance of inclusive design in technology, and her impactful projects like Breonna's Garden. They discuss the challenges of working in a large product team working on a “0 to 1” product, the emotional experience of being laid off, and the mindset needed to navigate this transition. Dr. Perez emphasizes the significance of community support, personal growth, and the power of storytelling through technology.

Takeaways

- Layoff can be seen as a graduation, a time for reflection.

- Inclusive design is crucial for creating representative technology.

- The importance of community and support during layoffs.

- Experiencing layoffs can feel depersonalized but also unifying.

- Mindset shifts are essential for resilience after a layoff.

- Projects like Breonna's Garden exemplifies the leveraring power of technology in storytelling.

- Finding joy and purpose in work is vital for personal fulfillment.

- It's important to articulate what you want in your career.

- Saying yes to opportunities can lead to unexpected paths.

- Emotional labor is necessary to combat self-doubt after a layoff.

**Links:**

Dr. Perez mentioned a few resources during the pod:

**Inclusive Product links**

[Microsoft's Inclusive Design content](https://inclusive.microsoft.design/)

**Links to Accessibility XR projects:**

[Webinar on Scene Weaving](https://www.linkedin.com/in/dalyaperez/overlay/1730223222514/single-media-viewer/?profileId=ACoAABSZcggBgj8oPWTRRugRM8IypVoYGv-eLKk)

[Article on blind accessibility in metaverse that I co-authored](https://dl.acm.org/doi/10.1145/3544549.3583909)

**Breonna's Garden**

[Website](https://breonnas.garden/)

[iOS App](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/breonnas-garden/id1564025886)

[Breonna’s Garden Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/breonnasgarden/)

**Life Coach**

[Meghan Patiño](https://www.meghanpatino.com/)

You can contact Meghan at meghan@meghanpatino.com

[RIP DEI podcast](https://open.spotify.com/episode/7KyqNYRQ6z6oYagXa1h1qa?si=iQZ7U5I0T624lbXfPzZzwA)

**Children's Books on Palestine:**

Shop at: [Estelita's Library](https://bookshop.org/lists/estelita-s-library)

[P is for Palestine](https://bookshop.org/p/books/p-is-for-palestine-a-palestine-alphabet-book-golbarg-bashi/21027522?ean=9798887440767&next=t)

In this episode, Leo sits down with Dr. Brooke Choulet, a performance psychiatrist who works with elite athletes and high performers in the NBA, NFL, the US Soccer Federation, the US Olympic and Paralympic committee, and many more.

Together, we unpack the parallels between the competitive world of sports and the demanding side of the tech industry—especially when it comes to layoffs and transitions.

You’ll learn:

- Why mindset is *everything* during uncertain times

- How to rebuild confidence and identity after a setback

- Simple tools like meditation and goal-setting that create lasting change

- The role of community, structure, and purpose when navigating what’s next

Whether you're in between jobs or reimagining your path, this episode will leave you feeling seen—and ready for your comeback.

**Helpful Links**

You can find Dr Choulet’s work at:

* https://www.chouletperformance.com/

As well as her new book: The Ultimate Private Practice: https://a.co/d/eJ1wyC2

#LaidOffLegends #Podcast #CareerTransitions #MentalHealth #Resilience #PerformancePsychology #Leadership #Reinvention #ComebackSeason

In this episode of the Laid Off Legends podcast, Leo speaks with Chilumba, a former Microsoft employee with almost two decades of experience. They discuss Chilumba's journey through layoffs, the cultural shifts at Microsoft, and the emotional impact of being laid off. Chilumba shares insights on preparing for the layoff experience, rebuilding identity, and finding purpose after leaving a long-term position. The conversation emphasizes the importance of resilience, community support, and leveraging skills for future opportunities.

Key Summary

Chilumba was laid off in 2023 after two decades at Microsoft.

He experienced a cultural shift at Microsoft from a competitive to a collaborative environment.

Survivor's guilt is common among those who remain after layoffs.

The layoff announcement can come unexpectedly, even for high-performing employees.

Coping with layoff news requires mental preparation and emotional resilience.

Rebuilding identity after a layoff can be challenging, especially when work defines self-worth.

It's important to take time off to process the layoff experience.

Leveraging skills and frameworks can aid in the job search process.

Investing in personal projects can provide a sense of purpose post-layoff.

Community support is crucial for navigating the emotional aftermath of layoffs.

Resources mentioned

Executive Order on Improving the Nation’s Cybersecurity (EO 14028)

The last project Chilumba worked on was driving conformance EO 14028 for the Edge organization.

https://www.nist.gov/itl/executive-order-14028-improving-nations-cybersecurity

Chilumba’s email to the team: "Bye-bye and thank you for the ..... the cookies" was a play off the expression "So Long, and Thanks for All the Fish"

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/So_Long,_and_Thanks_for_All_the_Fish

It's a quote from The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy and has become a humorous way of saying "Goodbye". It refers to dolphins, who were much more advanced than humans had thought, leaving Earth prior to its destruction

"Loose lips sink ships" was phrase he used about how bad rumors and can hurt businesses; but heleveraged that information to plan (together with other signals). The phrase is used to remind people of the dangers of speaking without thinking or sharing confidential information.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loose_lips_sink_ships

OKR - Objectives and Key Results

A popular business framework that Chilumba adapted to track parts of his life where he wanted to move the needle around 4 focus tenants of Health, Self, Wealth, and Career.

https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/what-is-an-okr-definition-examples/

ADO - Azure DevOps

The Microsoft DevOps planning platform he uses to track my Job Search journey with a project code name of "Gig Scouting"

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/devops/user-guide/what-is-azure-devops

Global Seed Initiative (GSI)

Global Organization that Chilumba serves on the Board of Directors

https://www.gsi-farming.org/

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.

In our very first episode, we interview Regine - a marketing leader with over 17 years of experience – with time at startups like FullContact, SurveyGizmo, Koombea, and larger Fortune 500 companies like Verizon, Microsoft, and Tableau (now SalesForce), the US Government, and many more.Regine has had an incredible career journey thus far, and shares her extensive career journey in marketing, her experiences with multiple layoffs, and the lessons learned from each. As part of her career journey, she shares a shocking experience with startup stock options - one everyone should be aware of and if possible prepare for.She discusses the emotional impact of being laid off, the importance of self-care, and how she navigated her identity during these challenging times. Regine emphasizes the value of taking time for self-reflection and the power of choice in shaping her career path. She also highlights her current work in supporting solo mothers by choice and the significance of genuine networking in her professional life.Relevant Links: Regine has started an incredible journey as a parent and helping others do the same. With Single Mothers By Choice (SMBC), their mission is to create a supportive and resource-rich space where independent mothers and those pursuing solo motherhood can connect, share experiences, and thrive together.**Form more information: https://www.smbcresources.com/