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The Unstuck Career

Ken Williams

The Unstuck Career is hosted by Ken Williams, an entrepreneur who made a bold career shift at age 55 after spending 16 years in the same job. Now building his own business, Ken is on a mission to help others break free from unfulfilling work and create a better life.

This podcast is for burned-out, frustrated professionals who feel stuck in toxic jobs, underpaid roles, or careers that no longer fit, and know they’re meant for something more.

Each week, Ken shares powerful conversations with people who have successfully made the leap (or are in the process of doing it) alongside practical Friday Focus episodes packed with mindset shifts and actionable strategies. Listeners will learn how to take control of their careers, build momentum toward change, and create work that aligns with the life they actually want.

If you’re ready to stop settling and start moving, this show will help you get there.

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24 episodes
a few times a week
Avg 22 min
English

Episodes 24

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S2 · E287
Monday · 39 min
Breaking Out of the Familiar Zone: A Story of Career Reinvention - Ep. 287
Send us Fan Mail This week, I sit down with Susan, who found me on TikTok and bravely reached out in the midst of her own messy "what’s next" journey. After a pivotal four-year reboot—relocating solo, embracing huge physical changes, and diving deep into self-discovery—Susan is now staring down her last big pivot: finding work that actually feels good. Together, we get real about the exhausting loop of taking jobs out of necessity rather than choice, and the sneaky fears that keep us stuck—even when everything else in life is finally clicking into place. You’ll hear Susan’s candid reflections on why she dreads Mondays, the discomfort of corporate games, and her simmering desire to move past “just surviving” into a role with meaning, flexibility, and impact. We unpack the universal struggle with fear and self-trust—what if it’s worse on the other side?—and why sometimes, all it takes is eight seconds of courage to make the next leap. If you sense you’re one decision away from a more fulfilling direction (but feel fear and uncertainty snapping at your heels), this conversation is for you. Want to connect? Head over to unstuckcareer.com. If you're ready to take the next step and get unstuck and unstoppable, you can find time on Ken's calendar at https://unstuckcareer.com/unstuck
S2 · E286
Friday · 7 min
What If the Fix Is Easier Than You Think?
Send us Fan Mail This week, I’m asking a question that exposed more than a coolant leak: What am I tolerating simply because I’ve forgotten that I have options? I share how I ignored a problem with my car for months, only to discover that a five-minute test and a small repair could fix it. The same thing happened with electrical problems I had tolerated for years, because I was afraid to find out what the diagnosis might be. You’ll be invited to take inventory of the parts of your life you’ve quietly accepted, whether it’s a miserable job, an unresolved problem, or a change you’ve ruled out before even trying. Pick one thing, get the diagnosis, ask for help, and take a step. If you want to connect, visit https://unstuckcareer.com. If you're ready to take the next step and get unstuck and unstoppable, you can find time on Ken's calendar at https://unstuckcareer.com/unstuck
S2 · E285
August 24 · 34 min
Embracing Entrepreneurship: From Corporate Life to Hospitality Success
Send us Fan Mail This week, we're taking you behind the scenes with Lucy, whose path from family-run businesses to independent hospitality entrepreneur will leave you rethinking everything you thought you knew about “safe” career choices. Lucy shares how leaving a so-called stable job led her to building a life and business filled with passion and flexibility, despite setbacks and the constant uncertainty of working for herself. You'll hear Lucy get real about fears—like health insurance, business failures, and trading your time for money—and why none of these should hold you back from living your purpose. Her story, including powerful lessons learned from the ground up in small businesses and a surprising detour into auctioneering, proves that crafting your own career is just as much about resilience as it is about ambition. If you've ever wondered whether the traditional path is the only way, or if it's truly possible to build the life you want, Lucy's journey is the mindset shift you need. If you're ready to take the next step and get unstuck and unstoppable, you can find time on Ken's calendar at https://unstuckcareer.com/unstuck
S2 · E285
August 17 · 34 min
Reinventing Careers and Surviving Big Changes: Create a Story of Flexibility
Send us Fan Mail This week, I sit down with Dan for a whirlwind journey through the ups and downs of an unconventional career path shaped by resilience and adaptability. From small-town roots in rural Oregon to living in five states and two Caribbean countries, Dan shares what it’s really like to reinvent yourself again and again in the face of layoffs, industry changes, and personal challenges. You’ll get the inside story of how losing his job to a robot—before it was “cool”—set him on a path from civil engineering to software development, with plenty of unexpected detours along the way. Through Dan’s practical wisdom, you’ll learn why panic and worry never move you forward, why flexibility is your greatest asset, and how every job you survive (including the ones that push you to your limits) adds another building block to your future. Whether you’re feeling stuck in your current role or reeling from a recent setback, Dan’s perspective on starting over, building from scratch, and turning setbacks into strengths will give you real strategies you can use today. If you’re wondering how to navigate career uncertainty, keep perspective during the hardest times, and turn your experience—good or bad—into your next opportunity, you won’t want to miss this conversation. Want to connect? Head over to unstuckcareer.com. If you're ready to take the next step and get unstuck and unstoppable, you can find time on Ken's calendar at https://unstuckcareer.com/unstuck
S2 · E284
August 14 · 8 min
Surrendered Authority - Chapter 1 Friday Focus
Send us Fan Mail Welcome to the Unstuck Career Podcast. In this episode, Ken Williams explores a question most of us have never truly considered: who is really making the decisions about your career and your life? We assume that we’re in control, but as Ken Williams points out, too often we delegate that authority to our jobs, our bosses, societal expectations, or even an unwashed bathroom. Through relatable stories and introspective exercises, Ken Williams challenges you to reclaim your direction, take ownership of your decisions, and break free from invisible expectations. Tune in as we uncover the subtle shifts that can help you build the life you truly want, starting with one powerful question: who's holding the pen to your story? If you're ready to take the next step and get unstuck and unstoppable, you can find time on Ken's calendar at https://unstuckcareer.com/unstuck
S2 · E282
August 7 · 6 min
Surrendered Authority Audio - Intro - Why this book? - Ep. 282
Send us Fan Mail Every decision adds a new line to your life story, but who’s really holding the pen? In this episode, I lay bare the real reasons so many of us stay stuck in our careers and lives. We dig past the surface—fear of failure, fear of the unknown, imposter syndrome—and reveal the hidden force that keeps us spinning in place: authority. I share eye-opening stories, including the moment I realized my boss’s opinion could paralyze me in ways my own kids’ couldn't, and why it matters who you allow to define your potential. You'll hear why blaming fear or self-doubt for your inaction might just be a distraction from the bigger issue. Together, we’ll break down how giving away authority over your choices—usually to bosses, expectations, or even your own comfort—silently sabotages your progress. I’ll show you how recapturing that authority can change the trajectory of your career and your life. If you’re craving practical steps to break free from stagnation and finally choose your own path, this episode is your invitation to reclaim your pen and start writing the story you want. Want to connect? Head over to unstuckcareer.com. If you're ready to take the next step and get unstuck and unstoppable, you can find time on Ken's calendar at https://unstuckcareer.com/unstuck
S2 · E281
August 3 · 34 min
How to Escape a Job You Hate and Discover New Career Opportunities - Ep. 281
Send us Fan Mail This week, I sit down with Sharyn Abbott, an unstoppable force in helping people break free from soul-crushing jobs and discover fulfilling work that truly fits who they are. We dig into why so many people feel trapped in jobs they hate and how you can reignite possibility in your career, even if you think you don’t have the resources or options. Sharyn shares the surprising power of tapping into your innate strengths, revealing simple strategies for starting fresh—sometimes with as little as a couple thousand dollars or just a few extra hours a week. You’ll hear inspiring stories about people who turned their lives around, including ex-convicts and corporate refugees, by embracing their unique skills and building businesses that fit their personalities. Sharyn’s passion for helping others build a life on purpose shines through as we talk about practical steps for escaping the “just over broke” rut and why it’s never too late to reinvent yourself. We also cover how small tweaks in mindset and community connection can lead you to freedom and a bigger paycheck than you ever expected. Ready to see real opportunity where you thought there was none? Find Sharyn’s links in the show notes or connect directly at Sharynabbott.com and LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharyn-abbott-ubu/. If you're ready to take the next step and get unstuck and unstoppable, you can find time on Ken's calendar at https://unstuckcareer.com/unstuck
S2 · E280
July 31 · 8 min
Stop Overthinking: When You Don’t Have Enough Information to Decide - Ep. 280
Send us Fan Mail This week, we dig into the overwhelm of decision-making in a world packed with endless information and opinions. Have you ever found yourself paralyzed by choices, unsure if you’re picking the right path or just following what others expect? I share a late-night conversation with my 19-year-old son, as he wrestles with whether to pursue art, psychology, or sign language, all while everyone—from managers to friends—weighs in with their own advice. You’ll get a front-row seat as we unpack the real reason so many of us stay stuck: We focus on trying to make the “perfect” decision when, in reality, sometimes there is no decision to make just yet. I’ll walk you through the powerful questions I asked my son (and use with clients) to help cut through the noise and clarify what really matters. The biggest lesson? You don’t need to have the full picture or all the answers to start making progress toward the life you want. If you’ve been feeling pressure to choose right now or are lost in a sea of options, this episode will show you how to take meaningful steps forward, even when certainty is out of reach. Want to connect? Head over to unstuckcareer.com. If you're ready to take the next step and get unstuck and unstoppable, you can find time on Ken's calendar at https://unstuckcareer.com/unstuck
S2 · E279
July 27 · 34 min
Playing Big: Andrea on Creativity, Courage, and Creating Memories That Last - Ep. 279
Send us Fan Mail This week, I sit down with Andrea, a master of joy and transformation who turned life’s setbacks into a thriving singing telegram business. Ever wondered what it takes to move from playing small to leaving a lasting impact? Andrea shares how a major life change led her to follow her creative spark, start “Singagram” in the heart of the pandemic, and bring unforgettable celebrations to people in both the virtual and real worlds. We unpack the courage it takes to break free from the “follow the rules” mentality and step into your own spotlight. Andrea reveals the deeper why behind her work: helping people feel truly seen and heard, whether it’s through a personalized song, a quirky costume, or even a children’s book. Hear the moving stories that remind us all why playing big with our own talents is never selfish—it’s a gift the world deeply needs. Ready to trade old narratives for your next bold chapter? You’ll find inspiration in Andrea’s journey and pick up practical wisdom for making your own impact. Find on TikTok at https://www.tiktok.com/@singagramcentralva Her book is on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0CXBQP9QM Want to connect with Ken? Head over to unstuckcareer.com. If you're ready to take the next step and get unstuck and unstoppable, you can find time on Ken's calendar at https://unstuckcareer.com/unstuck
S2 · E278
July 24 · 7 min
Overcoming Fear by Understanding Your Identity - Ep. 278
Send us Fan Mail This week, we're tackling a question that’s been haunting so many of us: Is fear really about not knowing something, or is it about not truly knowing yourself? If you’ve ever caught yourself thinking, “Something’s got to change—I can’t keep doing this,” you’re in the right place. I open up about my own journey dealing with fear, from stumbling through podcast recordings with my cat as a surprise guest, to agonizing over what people (and yes, even my mom) would think when I took the leap into coaching and entrepreneurship. You’ll hear the unexpected ways confidence—and more importantly, identity—shape how much fear controls your life and career. I share hard-earned lessons on learning not to anchor your self-worth to anyone else’s opinion, even the people you love most. We dig into why other people’s judgments don’t define who you are, how to untangle your sense of self from your job title or others’ expectations, and the liberating realization that your gifts exist regardless of outside approval. If you’re tired of opinions holding you back from the work and life you really want, this is your invitation to start building the confidence that comes from within. Let’s help you become unstuck and finally unstoppable—because your worth isn’t up for debate. Ready to take the next step? Connect with me at unstuckcareer.com If you're ready to take the next step and get unstuck and unstoppable, you can find time on Ken's calendar at https://unstuckcareer.com/unstuck
S2 · E277
July 20 · 42 min
Embracing Imperfection: Maria’s Journey Through Self-Doubt to Small Business Success
Send us Fan Mail This week on Unstuck Career, I sit down with Maria, aka “the Spicy Chef,” for a raw, honest conversation about what it really takes to leap out of a toxic work environment and into the unknown. Maria shares her journey from feeling trapped as an executive chef—even when she was “winning” by all traditional measures—to boldly starting her own hot sauce business and food consulting practice. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a job because of the paycheck or because you’re afraid of the unknown, Maria’s story will resonate. You’ll hear what it was like for Maria to walk away from a role that was both financially rewarding and emotionally draining, and how she went from questioning her own voice to embracing the courage it took to start over. We talk about the ugly, imperfect “first steps” of entrepreneurship, why having supportive partners matters more than you think, and why perfection isn’t a requirement for success—starting before you’re ready is. Maria also drops her favorite mantra: “there is no one silver bullet, just a thousand golden BBs,” and shares practical advice for anyone feeling invisible or afraid to act. If you want inspiration to get unstuck and proof that you don’t have to be special to make a major change, this episode is for you. Want to taste Maria’s hot sauces or learn more? Check out mariashotsauce.com to order online and follow her spicy journey. If you're ready to take the next step and get unstuck and unstoppable, you can find time on Ken's calendar at https://unstuckcareer.com/unstuck
S2 · E276
July 17 · 6 min
You’re Not Really Afraid of Failing - Ep. 276
Send us Fan Mail This week, we break down one of the most misunderstood roadblocks in your career: the fear of failure. But here’s the twist—what if it’s not really failure you’re afraid of? I challenge the “fear of failure” myth and reveal the deeper anxiety that keeps so many of us from making bold career moves. (Hint: it’s about other people knowing you didn’t succeed.) You’ll hear why the real fear might be about being seen as incompetent or about inviting criticism—especially from yourself, not others. I open up about my own stumbles, from unedited podcast mishaps (cat and all) to struggling through countless attempts while learning to fly an airplane, to show you how almost everyone is actually supportive when you take risks. We’ll talk about the subtle sabotage that happens when you worry what others might think, and I’ll share how reframing that fear can open up more possibilities than you ever expected. If you’re tired of letting self-doubt hold you back and want practical insight into reframing fear, tune in for a refreshing take that will get you moving forward again. Interested in becoming unstuck and unstoppable? Let’s connect at unstuckcareer.com If you're ready to take the next step and get unstuck and unstoppable, you can find time on Ken's calendar at https://unstuckcareer.com/unstuck
S2 · E275
July 13 · 36 min
The Truth About Job Market Scarcity and Finding Satisfaction Outside Your Comfort Zone - Ep. 275
Send us Fan Mail This week on Unstuck Career, I sit down with Matt, who shares his powerful journey from burnout in a niche, soul-draining job to truly thriving in a role where growth and fulfillment are finally possible. We unpack what it feels like when every day at work is just “going through the motions,” how the constant repetition and stress can creep into your home life, and how Matt reached the turning point that led him to choose something radically different for himself and his family. You’ll hear how Matt overcame the anxiety that comes with making a major career pivot—especially with a family depending on him. We talk about why the doom-and-gloom stories about the job market aren’t always true, the hidden opportunities that are closer than you think, and his surprising leap into sales after a background in coaching. Matt shares what it’s really like to grow with a company that actively invests in your development, and how reconnecting with people, rather than pushing products, has changed everything for him. Ready to rethink what’s possible for your own career? This conversation will leave you with strategies to separate work from home, discover overlooked opportunities, and shift your mindset from overwhelmed to empowered. Want to get in touch or learn more about Matt? Reach out to him on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-white-1463b31a7/ If you're ready to take the next step and get unstuck and unstoppable, you can find time on Ken's calendar at https://unstuckcareer.com/unstuck
S2 · E274
July 10 · 6 min
Why Waiting Is Worse: The Best Time To Act On Your Career Goals - Ep. 274
Send us Fan Mail This week, we tackle a myth that keeps too many professionals stuck in place: the belief that you’re “too old” to change careers, go back to school, or start over. Have you ever caught yourself thinking that you’ve missed your chance or that it’s simply too late? I open up about the real fears behind this mindset—including my own hesitation about pursuing a master’s degree and the realization, at age 55, that it was time to reclaim ownership of my career. We dig into some powerful truths: the time will pass anyway, and you’ll always be faced with the choice—stay where you are, or use that time to build the skills and experiences you actually want. I’ll share the classic wisdom about planting a tree, and why today is always the second best time to start something meaningful (the best time, of course, was years ago). Learn how regret can become your constant companion if you continue letting fear of age dictate your decisions. If you’re ready to stop letting statistics, history, or other people’s opinions keep you from making a change, this week’s episode is for you. Take charge of your career and life—don’t let bosses, partners, or even time itself be in the driver’s seat. Want to connect or need support to become unstuck and unstoppable? Head over to unstuckcareer.com to learn more. If you're ready to take the next step and get unstuck and unstoppable, you can find time on Ken's calendar at https://unstuckcareer.com/unstuck
S2 · E273
July 6 · 36 min
Breaking the Golden Handcuffs: Explore Meaningful Change in Life - Ep. 273
Send us Fan Mail This week, I sit down with Jon for a raw, relatable conversation about the uneasy tension between career success and personal fulfillment. Jon opens up about what it’s really like to be a top performer in digital advertising sales—crushing quotas, earning well, and working with smart colleagues—yet feeling that nagging sense something’s missing at the end of each day. We break down the “golden handcuffs” dilemma: what happens when the perks of your job keep you stuck, even as you wonder if you’re settling for less than you deserve. We dig into the creative side hustles and big dreams Jon has chased, from stand-up comedy and aviation to building trivia empires on Instagram. Along the way, we tackle the all-too-common story of talking ourselves out of what we want, and what it would mean to finally live life on your own terms. You’ll hear candid reflections on why fulfillment can be elusive—whether it’s the disconnect of selling intangible products or letting AI automate the joy out of passion projects. If you’re wrestling with whether “this is it” or dreaming about a more meaningful path without blowing up your life, Jon’s story is proof you’re not alone. Tune in for practical inspiration, and if you want to connect, you can reach out to Jon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonbeardslee/ If you're ready to take the next step and get unstuck and unstoppable, you can find time on Ken's calendar at https://unstuckcareer.com/unstuck
S2 · E272
July 3 · 6 min
Stop Waiting to Feel Ready: Decide and Take Action Ep. 272
Send us Fan Mail Do you constantly put things off until you finally “feel ready”? This week’s episode tackles the myth of ever being 100% ready before making a big move in your career or life. I open up about my own struggles with procrastination and perfectionism, sharing why waiting to feel ready is actually just another form of staying stuck. From the hesitation to start a new workout routine to the much bigger leap of making a career pivot, we explore the real reason we freeze: we’re trying to predict the future—and that’s impossible. You’ll hear why “ready” isn’t a feeling at all, but a decision—a simple, powerful shift that can set you in motion immediately. I lay out the practical formula: decide you’re ready, then take action. We get real about what finally pushed me to act after years of living someone else’s vision for my life, and why the decision to change is always available right now. If you're tired of waiting for a sign or the perfect moment, this is the push you’ve been searching for. Discover how to break the cycle and finally move toward what you want. Ready to connect and get unstuck? Head over to unstuckcareer.com. If you're ready to take the next step and get unstuck and unstoppable, you can find time on Ken's calendar at https://unstuckcareer.com/unstuck
S2 · E271
June 29 · 51 min
Reinventing Life After 50: Chasing Dreams and Change - Ep. 271
Send us Fan Mail This week, I sit down with Clint, a relentless dreamer who ditched stability for a shot at building something meaningful. Ever wonder what it really takes to reinvent your life after 50? Clint shares his raw, honest story: selling a thriving business, moving cross-country, and discovering that changing your zip code doesn’t change your patterns. We unpack the moment he realized chasing his dreams meant taking real ownership, not just making excuses or waiting for the “perfect time.” You’ll hear how Clint faced the scary crossroads of leaving a job, confronting waves of doubt, and turning failure into the launchpad for his next act. From wrestling with the voices of naysayers to learning how to separate love-driven advice from fear, Clint’s journey will hit home if you’ve ever thought, “I’m too old,” or "That won’t work for me." His pivot from “just surviving” to truly pursuing happiness by launching a new surf skate ramp business in California shows what happens when you let go of what doesn’t serve you and finally bet on yourself. Feeling inspired or need a nudge? Check out Clint’s project and follow his progress at waveformtraining.com and on TikTok @waveformtraining. This episode is for anyone ready to drop the excuses and take their shot, no matter their age or what others think. If you're ready to take the next step and get unstuck and unstoppable, you can find time on Ken's calendar at https://unstuckcareer.com/unstuck
S2 · E270
June 26 · 6 min
Making the Decision Right: Overcoming Analysis Paralysis in Your Career
Send us Fan Mail This week on Unstuck Career, we tackle the paralyzing fear of making the “wrong” decision—a mindset that leads so many smart professionals into analysis paralysis and a life they never truly chose. I share the all-too-relatable ice cream saga (yes, Chocoholic Chunk is still the star!), showing how second-guessing, detours, and even dead ends aren’t proof that you made a bad choice—they’re just part of the journey. You’ll learn why chasing perfect certainty is an illusion, and how treating every choice as “right” can liberate you from the anxiety of predicting the future. We get real about what actually happens when you decide to make a change, whether it’s in your job or your daily routine: when plans go sideways, it isn’t failure—it’s just an opportunity to reroute, learn, and keep moving forward. If you’re ready to ditch the overthinking and finally make decisions with confidence, this episode will show you how to adjust on the fly—no matter what life throws your way. Want extra support as you make your next move? Let’s talk! Get all the details and book time with me at kenwilliamscoaching.com, or check the link in the show notes. If you're ready to take the next step and get unstuck and unstoppable, you can find time on Ken's calendar at https://unstuckcareer.com/unstuck
S2 · E269
June 22 · 41 min
Redefining Possibility: Overcoming Trauma and Building Forward Ep. 269
Send us Fan Mail This week, we're joined by Michael, whose journey is a masterclass in perseverance through radical change. From life on submarines and a dream engineering career to surviving a ruptured brain AVM that wiped out most of his memory, Michael’s story will grab you from the first minute. He opens up about what it’s really like to relearn everything—walking, thinking, and even basic daily activities—after a life-changing event, and how he learned to let go of what he lost so he could explore new possibilities instead of settling for less. You’ll hear how Michael copes with daily disabilities and reshaped his expectations for himself, from rebuilding his life in California and Arizona to creating custom journals designed to help others face sudden disability and trauma head-on. He shares the honest realities of PTSD, systemic hurdles like ableism, and why he’s determined to give people tools that didn’t exist when he was going through the hardest seasons. Our conversation covers how to start over, set new goals, and stay creative—whether you’re running into life’s big walls or just feeling stuck in your routine. If you want to see how optionless moments can birth new hope—and how you can apply this mindset to your own challenges—this episode is for you. Ready to connect or check out Michael’s journals? Visit MFoglietta.com If you're ready to take the next step and get unstuck and unstoppable, you can find time on Ken's calendar at https://unstuckcareer.com/unstuck
S2 · E268
June 19 · 8 min
Finding the Courage to Quit: Overcoming Fear and Taking the First Step
Send us Fan Mail This week, we’re tackling one of the scariest—yet most liberating—moves you’ll ever make in your career: finding the courage to quit when you know it’s time. Are you living with that nagging voice that says, “Something has got to change”? I open up about my own struggles with the decision to leave a job that no longer fit, sharing what it really felt like to write my resignation, confront my boss, and walk away from a place I’d invested years into. We unpack the myth of fear, from “False Evidence Appearing Real” to the hidden origins of most of our anxieties about change and difficult conversations. You’ll hear stories about handling a tough boss, the surprising power of taking that messy first step, and why the dread you feel before a leap is almost never as real as your brain tells you. If quitting, starting fresh, or even having that uncomfortable conversation is on your mind, you’ll find both practical wisdom and a jolt of courage here. Ready to cut through the flimsy layer of fear and become truly unstoppable? Listen now, and let’s get you unstuck. Want more hands-on support? Visit kenwilliamscoaching.com to connect! If you're ready to take the next step and get unstuck and unstoppable, you can find time on Ken's calendar at https://unstuckcareer.com/unstuck

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