We’re living through a time when everything’s changing. From AI to government furloughs and mass layoffs, so why are you still playing by the old rules? In this episode, we’re talking about why it’s time to stop waiting for your job to take care of you and start taking control of your own career. It's time to start creating your NEXT Best Thing TODAY!

We’re getting into the biggest mistakes people are making right now. I’ll show you how to uncover your transferable skills and tell your story in a way that makes opportunities come to you. This isn’t about being rebellious, it’s about putting yourself in a position to win.

NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://aundreact.com/newsletter/
The Rewrite: https://startyourrewrite.com/
NEW Year, NEXT Level Series begins THIS WEEK: https://nextbestthingcommunity.com/new-year-next-level

After an unplanned (but very necessary) break, I’m returning to The Next Best Thing Podcast with a real talk update on what’s been going on behind the scenes. Spoiler alert: life got a lot, and I had to take a step back to reassess everything, from my schedule and money to my energy and purpose. In this episode, I’m sharing what led to the pause, the wake-up calls that followed, and how I’ve been rebuilding with more clarity and intention. I talk about working with coaches, getting support, figuring out my “number,” and why just replacing your corporate income isn’t the goal. If you’re out here trying to create a life and career on your terms, this one’s for you!

This isn’t just a comeback...it’s a reset. And from here on out, The Next Best Thing isn’t just a podcast…it’s a whole ecosystem designed to help you choose your next adventure with confidence.

I went to my first-ever Beyoncé concert, and listen, I expected the fringe, the glam, the vocals. But I did not expect to walk out of that stadium thinking so deeply about purpose, reinvention, and how we show up in the world. This episode isn’t a concert recap, it’s a heart-to-heart about what Beyoncé’s brilliance unlocked for me in real time. If you’re in a season of change, questioning your next move, or trying to figure out how to keep going when the path feels unclear, this one’s for you.

From owning your lane to starting before you feel ready, Beyoncé reminded me of some core truths about building a life, and career, that’s rooted in clarity, courage, and intention. Come for the (borrowed) Beyhive energy, stay for the gentle push you didn’t know you needed!

Learn more about The NEXT Best Thing Community: https://startyourrewrite.com/the-next-best-thing-interest
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Job market got you stuck? Executive Coach, former economist and Chief People Officer, Alisia Gill shares 5 hard truths every job seeker needs to know right now. With job confidence at its lowest since 2020, it's time for real talk about career pivots, LinkedIn strategy, and why "just-for-now" jobs might be your smartest move. Discover actionable steps to take control of your career trajectory, even when the future feels uncertain.

Learn more about The NEXT Best Thing Community: https://startyourrewrite.com/the-next-best-thing-interest
Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/
Follow The NEXT Best Thing on IG @nextbestthingpod

Stay in touch with Alisia:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisiagill/
Website: https://theeraofenough.com/

In today's hustle culture, simply grinding harder won't cut it. Your technical skills? Great. Your dedication? Essential. But here's the real career secret: success is about strategic connections. While you're burning the midnight oil, others are building the relationships and visibility that actually get them noticed while opening doors to new opportunities.

Melody Wilding, executive coach and author of Managing Up, shares insider strategies top performers use to turn connections into your career currency. Your performance matters, but in today's workplace, how you play the game determines who really gets ahead. Stop letting your hard work go underappreciated. This is your chance to turn things around and start creating the career opportunities you deserve.

Sign Up for The NEXT Best Thing Community: https://startyourrewrite.com/the-next-best-thing-interest
Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/
Follow The NEXT Best Thing on IG @nextbestthingpod

Melody’s Previous Episode:Episode 65 - The Power of Highly Sensitive People and Embracing Your Emotions At Work with Melody Wilding
YouTube: https://youtu.be/0Nvi-cDPP38
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-next-best-thing/id1680095327?i=1000660683719

Stay in touch with Melody:
Website: https://melodywilding.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melodywilding/
Instagram: @melodywilding 

Feeling buried by stuff and stress? This week, Christine Platt, author of The Afro Minimalist’s Guide to Living With Less, shows us how minimalism, when rooted in culture and intention, can be a path to true liberation.Forget the cold, colorless aesthetic. Christine’s approach embraces warmth, identity, and purpose focusing on why we accumulate and how to release what no longer serves us.

She shares her powerful four-step process to help you move from overwhelm to clarity.We also talk about those messy in-between seasons, and get a sneak peek of her latest book, Less is Liberation, with five wellness foundations to help you check in and reclaim your peace.This episode is your invitation to start small and trust your path. You’ve got this! 

Learn more about The NEXT Best Thing Community: https://startyourrewrite.com/the-next-best-thing-interest
Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/
Follow The NEXT Best Thing on IG @nextbestthingpod

Stay In Touch With Christine:
Website: https://www.iamchristineplatt.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamchristineplatt/
LinkedIn: ​​https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-platt-afrominimalist/

Thinking about writing a book or pitching a big idea? LIsten to this FIRST! Kishan Trotman didn’t set out to launch a publishing imprint—but when the moment called for action, she answered. In this episode, she shares how Legacy Lit was born in the wake of the George Floyd uprisings, and what it took to convince one of the biggest publishing houses in the world to bet on something new.

We talk about how to make a compelling case for your ideas, why most people misunderstand what success in publishing actually looks like, and what it really takes to turn a book—or any creative project, into something that lasts. If you’ve ever wondered whether your story matters, how publishing works behind the scenes, or what it takes to get your idea out into the world and keep it alive, this episode is for you.

Learn more about The NEXT Best Thing Community: https://startyourrewrite.com/the-next-best-thing-interest
Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/
Follow The NEXT Best Thing on IG @nextbestthingpod

Stay In Touch With Krishan
Substack: https://ktrotman.substack.com/?r=2v4k4o&utm_campaign=subscribe-page-share-screen&utm_medium=web
Website: https://www.krishantrotman.com/
Legacy Lit: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/imprint/legacy-lit/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/krishantrotman/

You keep pushing, showing up, and holding it together, but inside, you’re exhausted, numb, and running on fumes. In this conversation therapist Kalisha Crone unpacks the silent damage of suppressing your emotions just to survive. If you've been snapping at people you love, zoning out at work, or feeling disconnected from yourself, this episode is your call-in. Kalisha offers clarity, compassion, and practical ways to come back to center without quitting your job or pretending you're okay. It's time to stop normalizing numbness. You deserve more than survival.
 
Learn more about The NEXT Best Thing Community:  https://startyourrewrite.com/the-next-best-thing-interest
Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/
Follow The NEXT Best Thing on IG @nextbestthingpod 

Grounding Exercises:
Address Anxiety: Setting Intentions and Deep Breathing Exercise https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XPicJ9WRIgs&t=3s
Quick Meditation and Grounding Exercise with Therapist Kalisha Crone https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XaQQ7LfSZKs

Keep In Touch with Kalisha
IG: https://www.instagram.com/gracefulchangecounseling/
Graceful Change Counseling: https://shorturl.at/gSSgk 
Soulful Serenity Journal: https://www.amazon.com/Soulful-Serenity-Prompts-Inner-Self-Discovery/dp/B0D6SV1SZG

On this episode of The Next Best Thing, I'm celebrating two years of the podcast. I opened up about the journey behind building this podcast from scratch, facing doubts, fighting comparison, and redefining what success really means. From almost quitting to now reaching nearly 100 episodes, it’s been about honoring promises to myself and helping others navigate life’s transitions. Remember, perfection isn’t the barometer of success. Show up, use what’s in your hand, and let your own path unfold. Thanks for being part of this journey!

Ever felt like your career has more chapters left to write? When the path you've built starts to feel narrow, or you're craving a professional reinvention that honors your hard-earned experience,

Christina Santiago and Elaine Walker have a conversation that will change your perspective. In this episode, they unpack the art of career transitions, from leveraging your existing skills, to  expanding your network, and creating opportunities when traditional routes seem closed. From the career opportunities that can come from volunteering to understanding the true timeline of a meaningful job search, they offer a roadmap for redesigning your career trajectory with confidence and intention.

Learn more about The NEXT Best Thing Community: https://startyourrewrite.com/the-next-best-thing-interest
Learn more about The Rewrite: https://startyourrewrite.com/
Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/
Follow The NEXT Best Thing on IG @nextbestthingpod

Reach out to…
Christina Santiago: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinasantiagotv/
Elaine Walker:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/elainewalk/

Feeling stuck in your career with no clear NEXT step? I get it, I’ve been there too. That’s exactly why I created The NEXT Best Thing Podcast, to help you move forward with confidence, no matter what curveballs come your way. In this episode, I’m sharing my EMPOWER framework, a simple roadmap built from conversations with 70+ podcast guests who turned setbacks into new opportunities. It's also what I use to stay on track and open doors to new opportunities.

You’ll learn the seven key steps to figuring out what you actually want without waiting for permission. No need to take notes... I’ve got you covered. Get Ready, Set, NEXT: Your 7-Step Guide to Unlocking New Opportunities by joining the NEXT Best Community waitlist here: https://startyourrewrite.com/the-next-best-thing-interest

So get comfy, and let’s dive in—because your NEXT chapter might just be your best one yet!

Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/
Follow The NEXT Best Thing on IG @nextbestthingpod

One moment, you're secure in your job, and the next, the rug is pulled out from under you. The emotional rollercoaster of job loss can feel overwhelming. But what if the pain you're feeling isn't just frustration or confusion, it could actually be grief? In this episode, career coach and grief specialist Laverne McKinnon helps you reframe what you might be going through.

Laverne McKinnon shares how being fired from CBS left her grieving for a decade before she could name it. Learn to spot the harmful stories you've been telling yourself since your layoff and replace them with empowering alternatives. Discover simple rituals that provide genuine closure and clear your path forward.In today's uncertain job market, this conversation offers more than advice, it provides the missing piece for anyone struggling to reconnect with their purpose.

Learn more about The NEXT Best Thing Community: https://startyourrewrite.com/the-next-best-thing-interest
Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/
Follow The NEXT Best Thing on IG @nextbestthingpod

Stay In Touch With Laverne
Website: https://www.lavernemckinnon.com/
Moonshot Mentor Newsletter: https://moonshotmentor.substack.com/

Ever wondered how a personal problem could turn into a successful business? In this episode, Britney Crowell, founder and inventor of CurlCap takes us on her journey from deconstructing her dad's old hat to address her own scalp psoriasis to becoming the first Black woman with a patented product to sell officially licensed Disney apparel, yes THAT Disney!

You'll hear firsthand how protecting her intellectual property through patents made all the difference when major opportunities came knocking.This conversation goes beyond business basics as Britney opens up about the difficult decisions entrepreneurs face – from walking away from Amazon's marketplace to navigating partnership transitions with integrity. Her story shows the reality of perseverance, community building, and creating a lasting legacy.

Whether you're struggling to protect your creative work, looking to build a purpose-driven brand, or simply need inspiration to turn your own problems into profitable solutions, Britney's wisdom will leave you ready to take action on your dreams.


Learn more about The NEXT Best Thing Community: https://startyourrewrite.com/the-next-best-thing-interest
Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/
Follow The NEXT Best Thing on IG @nextbestthingpod

Stay in touch with Britney:
Get Your Curl Cap: https://www.curlcaps.com/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/curlcap/
Britney’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/britney_sade/

Ever feel like society's constantly giving you the side-eye for being happily single? In this episode of The NEXT Best Thing Podcast we're chatting with Dr. Kris Marsh from the University of Maryland, whose book "The Love Jones Cohort" is shaking up everything we thought we knew about relationships. 

Dr. Marsh introduces us to a growing group of college-educated, financially comfortable single Black Americans who are absolutely thriving without wedding rings. Named after that classic 1997 film (you know the one!), these folks are rewriting the rules of success and happiness.

"But aren't single people just... waiting to find someone?" Not according to Dr. Marsh's research! She breaks down how those strong friendships in your life might actually be delivering more happiness than that relationship you think you're supposed to be chasing. We get real about whether marriage still holds the same value it once did (spoiler alert: it's complicated), and why your net worth might matter more than your paycheck when it comes to being "middle class" today.

The most refreshing part? Dr. Marsh's take on friendship. While everyone else is swiping right and stressing about dating, she's got the data showing how those ride-or-die friends might be the real MVPs in your happiness story. If you've ever felt that pressure to couple up just because everyone keeps asking "so, are you seeing anyone?" at family gatherings, this episode will feel like someone finally gets it. Dr. Marsh doesn't just understand—she's got the research to back up why your life choices are completely valid.

Join the waitlist for The NEXT Best Thing Community: https://rewritecourse.com/community
Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/
Follow The NEXT Best Thing on IG @nextbestthingpod

Stay in touch with Dr. Kris Marsh:
Get The Love Jones Cohort: https://www.amazon.com/Cohort-Cambridge-Studies-Stratification-Economics/dp/1316612910
IG: https://www.instagram.com/drkrismarsh/
Bio: https://socy.umd.edu/facultyprofile/marsh/kris

Feeling overwhelmed by the constant chaos around you? Like the world is on a never-ending loop of bad news, and you're stuck in fight or flight mode? You’re not alone—and it doesn’t have to be this way.

In this episode, guest Lidia Bonilla talks about how understanding your nervous system can be the key to handling all that stress. We’ll dive into polyvagal theory, a game-changer for recognizing how your body reacts to danger, safety, and everything in between. It’s time to stop letting external chaos dictate how you feel inside. Whether you’re burning out at work, feeling triggered by politics, or just done with all the noise, this conversation will help you reconnect with yourself and find a sense of peace—even when the world feels anything but safe.

Sign Up for The NEXT Best Thing Community: https://startyourrewrite.com/the-next-best-thing-interest

Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/
Follow The NEXT Best Thing on IG @nextbestthingpod

Stay in touch with Lidia Bonilla
IG: https://www.instagram.com/lidiabonilladotcom/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lidiabonilla999/
Website: https://www.lidiabonilla.com/

More on the Polyvegal Theory: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cxn9SyW0DvM

In this episode, we explore the power of ignoring the doubts and limitations others try to place on us, and how to break free from societal timelines that don’t align with your unique journey. I share personal stories of how embracing uncertainty, building a supportive community, and acknowledging your own superpowers can lead to transformation. It’s not about starting over—it’s about recognizing the skills you already have and finding new ways to apply them.

The NEXT Best Thing Community is your guide to turning big dreams into achievable steps, and I invite you to join us in taking consistent action, celebrating each baby step toward your goals. Doors open for those on the waitlist on February 17th. Join Here: https://startyourrewrite.com/the-next-best-thing-interest

Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/
Follow The NEXT Best Thing on IG @nextbestthingpod

Feeling like you're stuck in a rut or not reaching your full potential? It’s frustrating when you know you can do more, but something’s holding you back. In this episode, NBA Performance Coach Ben Kenyon gets real about how to break through those mental blocks and tap into your true power. Whether you’re an athlete or just looking to level up in life, Ben shares his top strategies for staying motivated, mastering your mindset, and getting back on track after falling off. If you’re ready to take your game to the next level, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for!

The NEXT Best Thing community is officially launching! It’s a space for all of us to come together, learn, and grow. Be the first to know when doors open: https://startyourrewrite.com/the-next-best-thing-interest513766

Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/
Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG @nextbestthingpod

Stay in Touch with Ben:
Website/ Book: https://www.greatdaytoclimb.com/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/ben_kenyon_/?hl=en
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benkenyon-gds/

Ready to Feel Good About Your Money in 2025? 🙌🏾With everything happening in this political climate, we can't afford to have our money stay funny. Financial therapist Aja Evans returns to the show – this time as a published author – to help us get crystal clear about creating prosperity and options for ourselves.

Her new book "Feel Good Finance" is right on time. We all know money talk can get heavy. The stress, the shame, the constant pressure – Aja gets it. But instead of beating yourself up about your finances, she shows you how to actually feel GOOD about your money situation, no matter where you're starting from. From creating a "dopamine menu" that helps you feel abundant without spending, to showing up for your future self while still enjoying your present life, Aja brings practical wisdom and genuine understanding to the conversation.

The best part? She keeps it real about her own journey, from being nervous about podcast appearances to publishing a whole book while working full-time with two kids under 5. Her story shows us what's possible when you believe in yourself and put in the work.This is our year to get intentional about building wealth and creating choices for ourselves. Grab your notebook, because this episode will transform how you think about money – and yourself – in 2025. 

Big news for 2025: The NEXT Best Thing community is officially launching! It’s a space for all of us to come together, learn, and grow. Be the first to know when doors open: https://startyourrewrite.com/the-next-best-thing-interest513766

Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/
Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG @nextbestthingpod

Keep In Touch with Aja Evans:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/ajaetherapy/
Get “Feel Good Finance:” https://ajaevanscounseling.com/

In this final episode of 2024, I’m reflecting on the whirlwind year that’s been—what worked, what didn’t, and everything I’ve learned along the way. It’s a moment to pause, take stock, and share what’s been on my heart as I set intentions for the year ahead. I’m also encouraging YOU to reflect on your own journey, address your fears, and dream big as we step into 2025. This episode is all about gratitude—thank you for trusting me, for showing up, and for being part of this community. Grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s wrap up the year with hope, heart, and a clear vision for what’s NEXT!

Correction: I left my previous “life” in 2022 NOT 2002. 

Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/
Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG @nextbestthingpod 

Feeling stuck in toxic environments—whether at work or in your personal life? It's easy to tolerate what feels "normal," but that doesn't mean it's healthy. Ariane Hunter reveals how to break free from these patterns, with insight from her book, Dreaming on Purpose, to help you overcome cultural limits that hold you back from pursuing your true dreams. Looking to set clear intentions for the year ahead? 

The holiday season is the perfect time to reflect, dream big, and align your goals with what truly matters. Plus, learn how entrepreneurship can unlock the freedom you've been craving, whether it's creative, financial, or personal. Ready to stop burning out and start living with purpose? It's time to stop settling for "normal" and start building a life that reflects your true potential.

Subscribe to the NEXT Nuggets Newsletter: https://thenextbestthingact.com/
Join The NEXT Best Thing community on IG @nextbestthingpod

Get to know Ariane:
Website: https://www.arianehunter.com/
Dreaming on Purpose book: https://www.arianehunter.com/dreamingonpurpose
Dreaming + Doing newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/dreaming-doing-digest-6962118989334376448/IG: https://www.instagram.com/arianehunter/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arianehunter/