Being laid off is one of the toughest challenges professionals can face. It’s not just the loss of a job — it’s the loss of stability, identity, and routine. The shock can feel like grief, and the path forward is rarely straightforward.

In this episode of Mid Career Change, I’m joined by Steve Jaffe, author of The Layoff Journey: From Dismissal to Discovery. Steve has lived this journey four times over a 25-year career in advertising and marketing. Drawing on those experiences, he’s written a powerful guide to help others process the emotional impact of job loss and move towards renewal.

Together we talk about:

• Why layoffs affect us so deeply, beyond just the paycheck

• The seven stages of grief after job loss — and why they don’t always follow a straight line

• How to navigate feelings of denial, anger, and depression while holding on to your sense of self-worth

• Practical first steps to take once the initial shock begins to ease

• How to reframe setbacks as opportunities for growth and even transformation

• What renewal can look like: rebuilding identity, confidence, and purpose after a layoff

Steve’s honesty and empathy shine through as he shares both his story and practical strategies for navigating this difficult season of life. Whether you’ve experienced a layoff, know someone who has, or simply want to build resilience for the future, this episode offers both insight and hope.

🔗 You can find Steve’s book The Layoff Journey and more about his work on his website.