S1 Ep6: Life After Layoffs – Jamie McDonnell & Sacha Dekker on Rebuilding Identity, Work and Self Worth

"Get comfortable with being uncomfortable"

 

In this episode of Change Unfiltered, I’m joined by two thoughtful leaders — Jamie McDonnell and Sacha Dekker — to talk about one of the most common yet rarely unpacked turning points in our careers: being laid off.

 

With experience across LinkedIn, Microsoft, Oracle, Citrix, Okta and HubSpot, Jamie and Sacha share the personal and professional shifts they navigated after job loss — from grief and identity to rediscovering purpose and moving forward with intention.

 

In this conversation, we explore:

• The emotional reality of being laid off — and what no one tells you

• Finding joy and stability in hobbies, structure, and support networks

• Rebuilding confidence and aligning future roles with personal values

• How AI is shaping the future of job search, learning, and work itself

 

If you’re feeling uncertain about what’s next, this episode offers reassurance, perspective, and the reminder that you’re not alone.