You know that feeling when someone asks "What do you do?" and suddenly you freeze because you don't have ananswer anymore? Or when you wake up in the morning and for a split second forget that you don't have that job to go to anymore? If you've ever lost a job that meant everything to you, you'll know it's not just about the paycheck. It's aboutlosing your whole sense of who you are.
Today I want to talk about something most of us never prepare for - career grief. The real, deep sadness that happens when we lose not just our income, but our identity, our sense of belonging, our whole sense of purpose. And why it's completely normal to feel like you're mourning something that was never supposed to die.
Today I speak with Laverne McKinnon who spent years climbing the ladder in entertainment at CBS, helping develop shows like CSI and Criminal Minds. She was the person advocating for writers, championing stories, literally changing people's careers. Until the day she was asked to leave.
Today she helps people feel their way through sad times like this, understand career grief and rebuild their life to rise up again.
We talk about why career loss hits so deep. She explains to me what disenfranchised grief means, a new term I learned.
Today was another beautiful conversation with someone that chose to dedicate their life and career to helping other people rebuild theirs - and how lucky am I that I get to speak to these beautiful souls, just like Laverne.
Enjoy x Mel
If Laverne's story resonated with you and you want to learn more about her work with career grief, you can find her on LinkedIn at Laverne McKinnon, IG on https://www.instagram.com/lavernemckinnon or visit her website at https://lavernemckinnon.com, or join her community on Substack athttps://moonshotmentor.substack.com where she offers workshops, meditations, and ongoing support for just $5/month
Free membership + resources: MamaWhatsNext.com
If you have a question or need advice, DM me on Instagram or LinkedIn
Book a 1:1 free strategy session with Melanie → MamaWhatsNext.com/book-a-free-strategy-call
Loved this episode? Then it would be the greatest gift for me if you subscribe, leave a review, and share this with another amazing mama who’s ready for her next chapter. Your support helps more women find the courage to rewrite their stories.
This podcast is for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Any information shared here, or through linked materials, is meant to provide general guidance and is not a substitute for professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional, such as a physician, therapist, or coach, for personalized support, diagnoses, or treatment. Use this information at your own discretion and risk.