Embracing Renewal and Looking Ahead to Season 9

After a three-year intensive cycle of writing and promoting her latest book, host Amy G returns from a three-month sabbatical, marking a significant transition in her professional life. This period of disconnection—characterized by "no work, no social media, no to-do lists"—offered a necessary reset. While she candidly admits that "refreshed" might be too strong a term for the lingering busyness of modern life, she notes that the time away provided much-needed clarity. By stripping away external noise, she gained perspective on "what mattered" and how she truly wants to allocate her time, ultimately viewing the upcoming fall season as a "rebirth season" filled with renewed excitement.

Revisiting Professional Failures

Season 9 kicks off on October 16th with a vulnerable exploration of past professional failures. The hosts discuss the "humbling task" of examining their own missteps, noting that while the process can be "cringy" and make one's "stomach turn," it is a vital part of professional growth. The core objective of this episode is to encourage listeners to revisit their own "real or perceived" failures, helping them learn how to take responsibility without carrying more than their "fair share."

Unpacking Adult ADHD and Disability Advocacy

One of the most enlightening segments of the upcoming season involves deep dives into adult ADHD and workplace disability advocacy. Amy G highlights that ADHD is a "serious problem" that affects "every single aspect of every single minute of my life." She emphasizes that many women mask these challenges at work, leading to a state where the rest of their lives are in "chaos" due to the sheer exhaustion of maintaining professional appearances.

Furthermore, conversations with disability advocates shed light on the difficulties of navigating a workplace, particularly regarding the disparity between how "apparent" and "non-apparent" disabilities are treated. The hosts acknowledge that there is often "a lot more willingness to accommodate physical disabilities than neurodivergence," noting that people can be "very judgmental" when it comes to behavioral differences.

The Power of Serving on Boards

Reflecting on the importance of stretching oneself, the hosts discuss the value of serving on professional boards. Amy G shares her personal journey from being a student in a program to contributing to its future, noting that "outside ignorance" can actually be an asset, as it allows one to "test what's happening and why." She encourages listeners who feel unqualified to reconsider, highlighting the "deep sense of purpose and meaning" that comes from contributing to areas where you are "not so sure" but choose to "do it anyway."

Engaging the Community

The season will also feature a dedicated "Ask the Amys" episode, a staple of the show where the hosts provide advice on interpersonal and managerial career problems. By inviting listeners to reach out via email, the podcast continues its mission of providing collective wisdom, ensuring that the upcoming season remains a resource for those navigating the complexities of their own careers.