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Why I Left

Why I Left

Brian Aquart

We don’t talk about resignations enough!In the throes of the unprecedented challenges posed by the pandemic, a seismic shift occurred in workplaces worldwide. 1 in 4 people decided to embark on a journey of profound change, leaving their jobs behind. The catalyst for this mass exodus led to the birth of Why I Left, a podcast that chronicles real stories from real people about why they left their jobs and insights from the lessons they learned.At the epicenter of the Great Resignation, we unearth the untold stories, the whispers of uncertainty, and the bold decisions that defined a generation. While our roots are entwined with the resignations spurred by the pandemic, our narrative goes beyond that moment in time. Why I Left is an evolving chronicle inviting you to explore the most impactful career moves of individuals, whenever they may have occurred.Join host, Brian Aquart, on a journey through tales of triumph, resilience, and self-discovery. Each episode is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for growth, showcasing the beauty of self-actualization amid the challenges of the professional landscape. Why I Left isn’t just a podcast; it’s a sanctuary for those yearning for empowerment and inspiration. Whether you’re navigating the echoes of the pandemic or embarking on your own journey, our stories are here to guide you. The mic is yours, the stories are real, and the possibilities are endless. Embark on a listening experience that goes beyond the resignation letter – join us and discover the transformative power of career choices!
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Top 10 Why I Left Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Why I Left episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Why I Left for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Why I Left episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

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Prof. Anthony Klotz debuts Season 2 of Why I Left. His research on resignations lead to predicting a major pandemic-related labor shift resulting in the Great Resignation in May 2021.

He is fascinated by the causes and effects of how and why people resign, and his work has been featured in Harvard Business Review, MIT Sloan Management Review and The Wall Street Journal.

His theory has continually been supported by record numbers of resignations in the US and globally. It’s an honor to have him on the show, as his work is clearly an inspiration for our discussions.

Enjoy!

Stay connected with our Guest

Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn.

Support the Show

Key topics discussed (Timestamps):

03:00 Anthony’s path to specializing in organizational behavior.

12:00 What is Terror Management Theory?

15:00 How uncertainty in his students led Anthony to provide an explanation.

18:00 The questions millions asked themselves during Covid.

21:00 Anthony shares how remote work was a culture shock for most.

24:00 The origins of making the prediction of a lifetime.

27:00 How are resignations now different than in the past?

30:06 Joining the Great Resignation after predicting it.

33:00 Anthony reflects on this moment and its personal impact.

39:00 Planning how to resign effectively.

42:00 How employers can manage exits better.

48:00 Be careful forcing people back into the office.

51:00 Closing thoughts and resources.

Visit Us: Why I Left

Subscribe on: YouTube, Apple Podcasts, & Spotify

RSS feed: Why I Left RSS

Follow us:

Instagram: @OfficialWhyILeft

LinkedIn: @WhyILeft

Facebook: @OfficialWhyILeft

#WhyILeftPodcast #GreatResignation #Podcast

Shoutout to our crew:

Why I Left Logo: Ei8htz.

Host imagery: Dos Ojos Media.

Audio & Video Production: A Podcast Geek

B Runs Chicago

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Ashley Bince is the Founder of Bince Law, where she helps small businesses secure and protect their intellectual property rights. After working in Big Law for several years, she recognized that she lacked fulfillment and the space wasn’t for her. So, she launched her own firm and found it to be more personally and professionally rewarding than she could have ever imagined.

It was great to hear how patient she was in finding her niche and how much she trusted the process along the way. I’m excited to wrap up Season 1 with her story.

Enjoy!

Stay connected with our Guest

Connect with Ashley on Instagram and LinkedIn.

Visit Bince Law

Support the Show

Key topics discussed (Timestamps):

03:00 Ashley shares what has worked well in her work journey.

09:00 Ashley starts to realize that something was clicking at her second firm.

12:00 How the pandemic highlighted a lack of work boundaries.

15:03 Ashley gets the encouragement she needed to become an entrepreneur.

18:05 Listen to what Ashley started to learn about herself after she left her job.

21:05 How you can protect your brand. Advice from a trademark attorney.

30:00 Closing thoughts and resources.

Visit Us: Why I Left

Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube

RSS feed: Why I Left RSS

Follow us:

Instagram: @OfficialWhyILeft

Twitter: @WhyILeft_

Facebook: @OfficialWhyILeft

#WhyILeftPodcast #GreatResignation #Podcast

It takes a village to put this show together so a special shoutout to our crew:
Why I Left Logo: Ei8htz.
Host imagery: Jay at Dos Ojos Media.
Audio & Video Production: Dave at A Podcast Geek
Music: Vicate Studios & FASSounds;
Did you enjoy this episode? If so, rate it 5 stars and share with your community.

We’d love your feedback.

B Runs Chicago

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Daniel Jordan is the owner of Demo Pros a commercial and residential demolition company in Montana. His company’s mission is to provide a healthier and cleaner solution to interior demolition by providing a dust free environment during projects.
After getting furloughed from his job in California and taking a leap of faith in a new state with other contractors, he learned that his efficient ways of working were not suited for working for someone else. He has a great story of self-actualization during the pandemic.

Stay connected with our Guest

Connect with Daniel on LinkedIn and visit Demo Pros online, Instagram, and Facebook.

Mentioned on the Show:

SCORE: SCORE, a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals through education and mentorship.

Support the Show

Key topics discussed (Timestamps):

02:10 Daniel’s passion in the projects he’s been a part of.

04:11 How the pandemic affected Daniel and the big move he made.

07:34 Daniel describes how the working environment changed drastically due to the pandemic.

10:40 Pivotal moments in Daniel’s work situation where the seeds of starting his own business started.

13:18 Why Daniel left her job during the pandemic.

17:40 Daniel’s learnings throughout this process and the realizations it caused.

21:50 Daniel shares the resources he leaned on to launch his business.

26:37 Advice from Daniel to our listeners.

31:14 Closing thoughts and resources.

Visit Us: Why I Left

Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube

RSS feed: Why I Left RSS

Follow us:

Instagram: @OfficialWhyILeft
LinkedIn: @WhyILeft

Twitter: @WhyILeft_

Facebook: @OfficialWhyILeft

#WhyILeftPodcast

A special shoutout to our crew:

Why I Left Logo: Ei8htz.
Host imagery: Jay at

B Runs Chicago

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Why I Left - Trailer: Why I Left - Brian Aquart
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05/06/22 • 0 min

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Welcome to Why I Left!

During the worst pandemic in over 100 years, 1 in 4 people voluntarily left their jobs, but why? What caused this mass exodus? Why I Left brings you bi-weekly episodes of honest, informative, and entertaining discussions with people across industries who left their job. Created and hosted by Brian Aquart, he aims to explore the Great Resignation and chronicle real stories from real people about why they left their jobs during the pandemic, what has happened since, and share insights from the lessons they learned.
Visit Us: Why I Left

Subscribe on: YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

RSS feed: Why I Left RSS

Follow us:

Instagram: @OfficialWhyILeft

Twitter: @WhyILeft_

Facebook: @OfficialWhyILeft

#WhyILeftPodcast #GreatResignation #Podcast #Wellness

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, rate it 5 stars and share with your community.

We’d love your feedback.

It takes a village to put this show together so a special shoutout to our crew:

Why I Left Logo: Ei8htz. Host imagery: Jay at Dos Ojos Media. Audio & Video Production: Mixedmediaire. Transcript & Show Notes: Risko S. Theme Music: Vicate Studios & FASSounds.

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In this episode of Why I Left, host Brian Aquart interviews Gillian Tietz, Founder of Sober Powered Media and Host of the Sober Powered Podcast, a top 50 mental health podcast.

This episode begins our May Mental Health Awareness Month Series.

We talk openly and honestly about her personal journey with addiction and how she left her successful career as a biochemist to start her own podcast network. After struggling with alcohol addiction for years, Gillian talks about how the pandemic affected her life and work, including her decision to leave her job.

She also offers advice for those struggling with alcohol usage and encourages people to amplify the message about resources available during Mental Health Awareness Month.

You will learn about why alcohol usage and mental health are closely linked and hear Gillian's insights on how science, psychology, and compassion can be used to help people understand why they struggle to moderate or quit drinking, and how to develop the coping skills they need to stay sober.

For more mental health information and resources, please click here.

Enjoy the conversation!

Stay connected with our Guest

Connect with Gillian on LinkedIn & Instagram

Learn about Sober Powered Media

Listen to Sober Powered

Stay connected with the show

Visit Us: Why I Left

Subscribe on: YouTube, Apple Podcasts, & Spotify

RSS feed: Why I Left RSS

Support the Show

Follow us:

Instagram: @OfficialWhyILeft

LinkedIn: @WhyILeft

Facebook: @OfficialWhyILeft

#WhyILeftPodcast #GreatResignation #Podcast

B Runs Chicago

BetterHelp Online Therapy - Get 10% off your first month and get matched to a therapist.

10% off first order at APodcastGeek.com
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Today, Brian talks with Kristan Weisdack, founder and CEO of BehaviorWorx of Southwestern Pennsylvania, who has worked for over 17 years in the mental health field, specializing in autism and behavior intervention.

Her company focuses on providing a holistic approach to behavior intervention, shifting the practice of mental health professionals, teachers, and parents to address the root cause of a client's behavior. We discuss the effects of the pandemic on her practice and the mental health industry, her holistic approach to behavior intervention, and her advice for individuals caring for loved ones with autism or ADHD.

Kristan also has a great approach to behavior intervention and the training her team provides to help reduce "meltdowns" in those with autism.

If you're interested in learning more about her work, you can find her on LinkedIn or her YouTube channel, Beyond Behavior.

Enjoy the conversation.

Stay connected with our Guest

Connect with Kristan on LinkedIn.

Watch Beyond Behavior on YouTube.

Mentioned On The Show

App: CDC’s Milestone Tracker App

Book: Desire To Be Well – Sandi Kern

Book: The Fabric of Autism – Judith Bluestone

Book: Outsmarting Autism – Patricia S. Lemer

Support the Show

Visit Us: Why I Left

Subscribe on: YouTube, Apple Podcasts, & Spotify

RSS feed: Why I Left RSS

Follow us:

Instagram: @OfficialWhyILeft

LinkedIn: @WhyILeft

Facebook: @OfficialWhyILeft

#WhyILeftPodcast #GreatResignation #Podcast

Shoutout to our crew:

Why I Left Logo: Ei8htz.
Host imagery: Dos Ojos Media.
Audio & Video Production: A Podcast Geek
Music: Vicate Studios & FASSounds;

B Runs Chicago

BetterHelp Online Therapy - Get 10% off your first month and get matched to a therapist.

10% off first order at APodcastGeek.com
Visit APodcastGeek.com, sign up, and use code BA10 to get 10% off your first order.

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In today's episode, we have the pleasure of diving into the inspiring story of Noah Scott, Founder and CEO of The Big Possible. Noah is an expert in creating immersive in-person experiences that empower leaders to take risks, find peace of mind, and build lasting bonds that transcend limitations.
His eclectic background in marketing, design, film, and entrepreneurship has positioned him as the ideal sounding board for entrepreneurs at any stage of their journey. Enjoy!

Episode Highlights:

1. Unveiling the Journey: Noah spent over a decade honing the art of connection, and he embraced the Great Resignation after discovering where his talents and passions intersected.

2. Embracing Risk and Building a Vision: Noah joins the show to discuss his personal journey, the importance of risk-taking, and how to craft a vision for your life and career.

3. From Delinquency to Purpose: Noah opens up about his transformative years, where he explored various endeavors, attended parties, and sought validation from external sources.

4. The Birth of The Big Possible: Noah's vision of creating a unique boutique hotel and media company ignited his passion.

5. The Power of Relationships and Community: Noah highlights the importance of community and its role in fostering happiness and motivation.

6. Advice for Visionaries: Noah shares five essential steps to develop a big vision and offers three practical strategies for cultivating more meaningful connections.

Noah's remarkable journey reminds us of the transformative power of self-discovery, risk-taking, and community-building.

Enjoy the conversation.

Stay connected with our Guest

Connect with Noah on LinkedIn and Instagram.

Learn more about The Big Possible and follow them on Instagram

Stay connected with the Show

Support the Show

Visit Us: Why I Left

Subscribe on: YouTube, Apple Podcasts, & Spotify

RSS feed: Why I Left RSS

Follow us:

Instagram: @OfficialWhyILeft

LinkedIn: @WhyILeft

Facebook: @OfficialWhyILeft

#WhyILeftPodcast #GreatResignation #Podcast

B Runs Chicago

BetterHelp Online Therapy - Get 10% off your first month and get matched to a therapist.

10% off first order at APodcastGeek.com
Visit APodcastGeek.com, sign up, and use code BA10 to get 10% off your first order.

Support the Show.

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Why I Left - Uncage The Possibilities - Matt Doan
play

08/22/23 • 48 min

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Brian Aquart sits with Matt Doan, a former management consultant who found the courage to leave the corporate cage and unlock a life of freedom, purpose, and personal growth.

In this thought-provoking episode of Why I Left, Matt shares his insights on how he reinvented himself, uncaged his potential, and now helps others transform their lives.

Although management consulting can be a rewarding and lucrative field that offers a range of valuable skills, Matt realized that he needed something more fulfilling and freeing.

He made the bold decision to turn the tables and make the corporate environment work for him, rather than the other way around. Matt shares how he took measures to control his time and energy, focusing on delivering targeted value at work while preserving precious moments for his personal life and well-being. Surprisingly, even though he reduced his work hours to just 5-6 hours per day, Matt still managed to earn promotions and maintain a stellar reputation, leveraging his strengths to excel.

He coined the term "uncaging" himself, symbolizing the process of consciously removing himself from the corporate cage he felt trapped in. Matt now teaches this philosophy to others, emphasizing the importance of living uncaged and not becoming beholden to the corporate system.

Drawing inspiration from Ralph Waldo Emerson's concept of the "God within," Matt advocates for self-reliance and the ability to direct one's own future. While he acknowledges the stability and opportunities a nine-to-five job can offer, he also encourages ambitious individuals to test themselves entrepreneurially at some point in their lives. Entrepreneurship can provide meaning, personal growth, and open doors to opportunities not readily available in the corporate environment.

Matt will inspire you to break free, unlock your potential, and embrace a life filled with meaning and purpose.

Enjoy!

--

Brian’s raising money for people impacted by Childhood Trauma by running the 2023 Chicago Marathon

Please donate to B Runs Chicago:
https://secure.aahgiving.org/site/TR/Marathon/General?px=2248106&pg=personal&fr_id=1330

Stay connected with Matt

Website: https://www.matthewdoan.com/

Uncage Yourself Podcast: https://www.uncageyourself.fm/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewdoan/
Stay connected with Why I Left

Visit: https://www.WhyILeft.co
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMgQI4X0kEp8-o7Z9D3tRmg

Apple Podcasts:

B Runs Chicago

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Visit APodcastGeek.com, sign up, and use code BA10 to get 10% off your first order.

BetterHelp Online Therapy
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Why I Left - Aligning Your Values To Work - Kate Walker
play

08/29/23 • 53 min

Send us a Text Message.

Brian Aquart sits down with executive coach and HR expert, Kate Walker, to discuss the importance of aligning your values to your work. As an executive coach with a wealth of HR experience, Kate shares her extensive background in assisting companies with team and company rebuilds.

Through a personal brand audit exercise, Kate offers a practical approach to help individuals rebuild their leadership team and enhance their career advancement.

The exercise Kate shares involves reflecting on your own brand and selecting ten adjectives that best represent how you believe you show up and what you are known for. This introspective process helps individuals gain clarity and identify any gaps or opportunities for improvement in their personal brand.

Kate also shares her experience leaving her corporate job during the COVID-19 pandemic. Reflecting on her shifting values and the newfound importance of flexibility and freedom.

Drawing on her experiences as an entrepreneur, Kate provides valuable insights for those considering starting their own business. She encourages perseverance, seeking guidance from mentors or coaches who have relevant experience, practicing good financial management, and embracing mindset work for personal growth.

Enjoy the conversation!

Brian’s raising money for people impacted by Childhood Trauma by running the 2023 Chicago Marathon

B Runs Chicago: https://secure.aahgiving.org/site/TR/Marathon/General?px=2248106&pg=personal&fr_id=1330

Stay connected with Kate Walker
Online: https://www.katewalker.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-walker-sphr/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekatewalker/

Freebie - Upgrade Your Personal Brand: https://www.katewalker.com/brand

Stay connected with Why I Left

Visit: https://www.WhyILeft.co

Support: https://paypal.me/BAquart?country.x=US&locale.x=en_US

Subscribe:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMgQI4X0kEp8-o7Z9D3tRmg

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-i-left/id1613667100

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TE4Y626idPxNeewpCG6Ef

Follow:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialwhyileft/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/why-i-left/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialWhyILeft

Connect with Brian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianaquart/

B Runs Chicago

BetterHelp Online Therapy - Get 10% off your first month and get matched to a therapist.

10% off first order at APodcastGeek.com
Visit APodcastGeek.com, sign up, and use code BA10 to get 10% off your first order.

BetterHelp Online Therapy
Enjoy 10% off your first month and get matched to a licensed therapist.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the Show.

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Why I Left - Fintech To Freelance - Anna Burgess Yang
play

12/05/23 • 39 min

Send us a Text Message.

Brian Aquart sits down with Anna Burgess Yang, who went from Fintech corporate executive to creative freelancer.

At the peak of her career, Anna realized something crucial was amiss — personal fulfillment and operational influence. After a 15-year hustle, the pandemonium of the pandemic presented Anna with unique challenges — working remotely while balancing her role as a mother of three. It was in this moment that her priorities underwent a seismic shift.

In a heart-to-heart with Brian, Anna delves into the itch to leave the security of a steady job for the riskier waters of freelancing. She recounts the trials parents face, especially during unprecedented times, and the subsequent advocacy for flexible and asynchronous work. Listen in as she reveals how she effectively built a career portfolio that now brings her immense joy and satisfaction.

Anna's story is an eye-opener to the necessity of aligning one's career with core values and the freedom of being your own boss. If you've ever dreamed of taking control of your work life or finding a balance that suits your personal situation, this episode will resonate deeply with you.

Enjoy!

Stay connected with Anna

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annabyang/

Visit: www.annabyang.com

Stay connected with Why I Left

Visit: https://www.WhyILeft.co

Subscribe:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMgQI4X0kEp8-o7Z9D3tRmg

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-i-left/id1613667100

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TE4Y626idPxNeewpCG6Ef

Follow:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialwhyileft/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/why-i-left/

Connect with Brian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianaquart/

Rate us 5 stars and write a review here:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-i-left/id1613667100

B Runs Chicago

BetterHelp Online Therapy - Get 10% off your first month and get matched to a therapist.

10% off first order at APodcastGeek.com
Visit APodcastGeek.com, sign up, and use code BA10 to get 10% off your first order.

Support the Show.

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FAQ

How many episodes does Why I Left have?

Why I Left currently has 162 episodes available.

What topics does Why I Left cover?

The podcast is about Health & Fitness, Future Of Work, Mental Health, Work, Podcasts, Business, Wellbeing and Careers.

What is the most popular episode on Why I Left?

The episode title 'Adapting To The Fear Of Taking Risks - Luke Chirayil' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on Why I Left?

The average episode length on Why I Left is 41 minutes.

How often are episodes of Why I Left released?

Episodes of Why I Left are typically released every 6 days, 22 hours.

When was the first episode of Why I Left?

The first episode of Why I Left was released on May 6, 2022.

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