#157 The layoff journey: from dismissal to discovery with Steve Jaffe

Another Door Stories

“Resist that urge to jump right into job applications and start applying. You want to give yourself some space to process what you've been through and maybe avoid making any big decisions."

In this episode, we have Steve Jaffe, author of The Layoff Journey: From Dismissal to Discovery. Steve has been laid off four times during his career each time making space for reflection, resilience, and ultimately, growth.

We talk about the messy middle: what it really feels like to lose your job, how to process grief and anger, and why hope, connection, and self-care make all the difference. Steve shares stories from his own journey, what he’s learned from starting over. We chat about why you should always keep building your network, and how every door that closes can make room for unexpected opportunities.

The Highlights:

04:06 Why now is the time for authentic conversations about job loss

06:32 Steve’s first layoff, the loss of confidence, and an unexpected popcorn-scented flashback

10:37 Keep going vs. giving up, and the role of hope

11:48 After every layoff I’ve always come back stronger.

13:48 Not settling - why your next job could be an upgrade

15:25 Building real relationships (before you need them!) and helping others

20:32 The mind-body-spirit approach to dealing with a setback

23:14 Why layoffs are so common (40% of Americans!)

30:15 Why you need to let yourself feel all the feelings

40:10 What’s Next: Steve hints at writing another book!

What helped Steve navigate change:

Soundtrack: Unstoppable by Sia, Freedom by Beyoncé, Closing Time by Semisonic

Book: Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing

One piece of advice: “A closed door is not the end of the story, it's an invitation to something new. Give yourself some grace in that messy middle and pause for growth.”

About Steve Jaffe

2024 taught Steve that marketing strategy and writing a book have more in common than you’d think. Both require a deep understanding of your audience, a compelling narrative, and the resilience to keep pushing forward.

After 25 years in marketing, Steve learned that the most powerful marketing isn’t about selling, it’s about connecting. Whether Steve is consulting for organisations or writing a book, the core skill remains the same: crafting clear, resonant, and meaningful communication.

Connect with Steve:

Website: thestevejaffe.com

Book: The Layoff Journey: From Dismissal to Discovery

Work with Eleanor:

Eleanor supports individuals, teams and organisations through change. Whether it’s coaching or large scale organisational change through communications and training.

Work with Eleanor 121 as your coach, when you are starting something new, to develop the idea, to create the idea, to get it launched.

Book in a Change Mastery for teams session - when your team is navigating change.

Book in a 90 minute workshop - to think through change at work.

Join the Another Door Opens 5 Step Programme - a course and community to guide you through the mess of change to find calm, joy and opportunity.

Buy the Book - Another Door Opens - 5 steps for navigating change.

Instagram:instagram/anotherdooruk

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/eleanor-tweddell/

Website: www.another-door-opens.com

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk