If you’ve ever quietly wondered, Is this still the right path for me?, this episode will speak directly to your heart. I sat down with career transition coach and host of the Open for Hire podcast, Sandi Bouhadana, who brings honesty, vulnerability, and wisdom to the messy middle of career change.
After being laid off from her 16-year role as Senior Director of Training & Development at Beachbody Corporate, Sandi found herself on a soul-searching journey that ultimately led to deeper alignment, a new coaching business, and powerful insight into what really matters during a professional pivot.
What We Talk About in This Episode
- What to do when your career changes unexpectedly
- How to rebuild confidence after a setback
- The power of adaptability in today’s AI-driven workforce
- Navigating ambition, motherhood, and identity all at once
- Reconnecting with purpose when your path feels uncertain
Whether you’re navigating a recent layoff, craving a pivot, or just sensing it’s time for something more, this episode will remind you you’re not alone—and you’re more capable than you think.
Episode Timestamps + Key Moments
00:00 – Welcome + Meet Sandi Bouhadana
Molly introduces Sandi, shares their Beachbody connection, and why this conversation is so timely.
02:13 – From Layoff to Realignment
Sandi opens up about being laid off after 16 years and the identity crisis that followed.
05:00 – Rebuilding Confidence and Clarity
The emotional rollercoaster post-layoff—and how supportive circles helped Sandi regain clarity.
07:41 – Creating “Open for Hire”
Why Sandi started her podcast—and how “open for hire” turned into “open for higher.”
09:56 – You Don’t Have to Reinvent Yourself
How to build on your existing strengths and evolve your career, without starting over.
13:40 – Diversify Your Strengths
Why Sandi recommends putting your skills in multiple “buckets” during a transition season.
16:06 – Are You Loyal to a Fault?
How long is too long to stay—and what signs to watch for when it’s time to move on.
20:08 – I Confused Value with Being Available
Why saying yes to everything isn’t leadership—it’s a recipe for burnout.
23:49 – Purposeful Ambition + The Comparison Trap
How to define success on your terms, and stop shrinking in the face of others’ achievements.
25:12 – Soul Search Before You Job Search
Why clarity comes before action—and how to avoid repeating burnout patterns.
31:01 – The “Landing Light” Moment
Sandi shares her powerful metaphor about waiting for external answers vs. creating your own.
35:22 – Adaptability is the New Strength
In a world of constant change, adaptability—not tenure—is the key to professional growth.
39:12 – AI vs. Authenticity: Balancing Tech and Human Connection
How to stay grounded, present, and emotionally connected in a digital-first world.
42:06 – The 3 Pillars: Character, Experience, Impact
How to stand out in interviews and own your value—especially in career transitions.
46:56 – A Message for Ambitious Moms
Sandi’s advice to mothers navigating work, kids, and self-worth through seasons of change.
Soundbites to Remember
“I confused loyalty with strength—and staying too long actually weakened me.”
“You don’t need to reinvent yourself. You need to build on the skills you already have.”
“Soul search before you job search.”
“Confidence isn’t something you arrive at. It’s something you practice.”
“Waiting is not a strategy.”
About Sandi Bouhadana
Sandi is a career consultant, communications coach, and co-host of the Open for Higher podcast. After 16 years in corporate leadership, she experienced a layoff that catalyzed a personal reinvention. Now she helps others navigate job interviews, resume strategy, and rebuilding identity through meaningful work.
📍 Connect with Sandi:
🔗 Open For Hire Podcast
🔗 LinkedIn
Episode Sponsor: Nourish Move Love
Big thanks to Nourish Move Love for sponsoring this episode!
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Ready for Your Next Chapter?
If you’re navigating a career shift, don’t go it alone. Apply for a free clarity call to explore how high performance coaching can help you realign, rebuild, and boldly step into what’s next.
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