When the Career You Planned Falls Apart

Sometimes the career you've worked decades to build isn't the one you're ultimately meant to keep. This week on *Climbing the Corporate Ladder Without Breaking a Heel*, Dr. Cynthia sits down with coach, speaker, author, and former IBM executive **Lyndsay Dowd** for an honest conversation about career setbacks, purpose, and leading with heart. After spending 23 years building an incredible career at IBM, Lyndsay took a leap into a new leadership role only to be fired six months later. Instead of allowing that moment to define her, she used it to ask three life-changing questions: • What am I really good at? • What do I love doing? • How can I help people the most? That reflection became the foundation for *Heartbeat for Hire*, where Lyndsay now helps organizations embrace leadership that puts people before numbers. In this episode, you'll learn: - Why getting fired doesn't have to be the end of your story - How purpose often emerges from painful career transitions - The leadership skills that create trust and drive real business results - Why every professional should consider building a side hustle - How authenticity transformed Lyndsay's personal brand and business - A simple daily practice that can change the way you see the people around you Whether you're questioning your next career move, recovering from a setback, or simply trying to become a better leader, this conversation is a reminder that success isn't built on perfection. It's built on purpose, resilience, and the courage to lead with your heart. **CONNECT WITH DR-CYNTHIA** LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drcynthiabentzenmercer/ Instagram: instagram.com/drcynthiabentzenmercer Facebook: facebook.com/drcynthiabentzen TikTok: tiktok.com/@drcynthiabentzenmercer