Purpose Isn't Your Job Title

In today's fast-paced world, the concept of purpose often becomes entangled with our job titles and roles. In this episode, Annie Brock unpacks the essence of purpose shedding light on how understanding our true purpose can empower us through life and life transitions.

Annie highlights the importance of recognizing how purpose manifests through various roles and life changes, and encourages listeners to pay attention to their core values and patterns of behavior. She shares personal experiences and insights on how to articulate one's purpose and the significance of living intentionally aligned with it.

Before the season officially begins, this episode pauses long enough to explain the shift.

Episode Zero is an orientation—not to the podcast, but to where this season is coming from. Instead of interviews and polished takeaways, this season moves closer to the lived experience of leadership: the middle of it, where answers aren't finished and decisions still carry weight.

Drawing from years of leading in environments shaped by constant change—first in the military, then as an entrepreneur and nonprofit leader—this episode explains why the format changed and what listeners can expect going forward. Not because the old way stopped working, but because something deeper shifted.

This season is less about presenting conclusions and more about working through questions leaders are quietly carrying:

• What happens when you've outgrown a role, but not the responsibility?

• How do you lead well when your environment hasn't caught up to who you're becoming?

• How do you stay grounded when expectations keep shifting—but the stakes remain high?

You'll hear ideas in progress.
You'll hear pauses.
You'll hear leadership from the inside—not the highlight reel.

If you're navigating transition, sensing your leadership evolve, or feeling stretched between who you've been and who you're becoming, this season is designed to meet you there.

Episode One is where the real work begins.

In this episode, Trish Alegre-Smith shares her journey from serving in the Air Force to becoming a solopreneur in photography. She opens up about the challenges she faced as a young military leader, her transition into acquisitions, and the often-overlooked contributions of military spouses in supporting service members and their families.

Trish reflects on her proudest moments, including leading munitions movements post-9/11, and the cultural adjustments required when shifting from active duty to acquisitions. She also discusses how the reserves provided the flexibility she needed for her family while continuing to serve.

As an accidental entrepreneur, Trish turned her passion for capturing moments into a thriving photography business. She shares the lessons learned along the way, from defining her business vision to understanding that mistakes are part of the entrepreneurial journey. Now, as she looks to the future, she emphasizes the importance of building a strong team to support business growth.

Her story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of following your passion.

In this episode Annie Brock sits down with Matt Burns, a seasoned HR professional and co-founder of Atlas Copilot, to explore the evolving landscape of human resources and leadership. Matt shares how his military family background influenced his career in HR and the inspiration behind Atlas Copilot, an AI-driven tool designed to streamline HR processes.

The conversation delves into the critical role of emotional intelligence in leadership, the challenges faced by transitioning military leaders, and the growing integration of AI in decision-making. Matt highlights the importance of selfless leadership, the need to trust but verify AI tools, and the power of building your own table rather than seeking a seat at one. He also emphasizes how AI can enhance data synthesis, support informed decision-making, and foster innovation through constraints.

As the discussion unfolds, Matt shares his vision for improving mental health in the workplace and reflects on his journey as an entrepreneur. With thought-provoking insights and practical advice, this episode offers valuable takeaways for leaders, HR professionals, and veterans navigating career transitions.

In this episode, Stephen White shares his journey from a 24-year career in the United States Air Force to his current role as Assistant Vice President for Global Collateral Operations at Bank of America. He reflects on the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, highlighting the critical role of education and soft skills in building a successful career beyond the military.

Stephen discusses how his military background has shaped his leadership and problem-solving approach in the financial sector. He emphasizes the importance of networking in finding new opportunities and the need to understand corporate culture for a smooth transition. He also shares insights on how leadership training in the military prepares veterans for management roles and why recognizing personal achievements can boost confidence in a new career.

Throughout the conversation, Stephen offers valuable advice for veterans considering careers in finance, stressing the importance of continuous learning and the need to leverage unique military experiences when applying for jobs. His story serves as an inspiring example of how resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to growth can lead to success in any industry.

Tune in for an insightful discussion on career transitions, leadership, and the path from service to the corporate world.

JB Jaso shares his journey from a 23-year military career in the U.S. Army to finding fulfillment in the sports industry. He opens up about the challenges he faced during his military service, the pride he felt in shaping young leaders, and the lessons he learned while transitioning to civilian life.

JB reflects on the importance of taking care of soldiers and their families, a value that continues to guide him in his new role with the San Diego Padres. He discusses how networking played a crucial role in his career transition and why building strong relationships remains essential in the sports industry. Despite the industry's often lower pay, he finds immense satisfaction in his work, proving that joy in what you do can make it feel less like a job.

Throughout the conversation, JB highlights the value of continuous learning, the transferability of military leadership skills to civilian roles, and the power of creating a family-like work environment. His insights offer inspiration for anyone navigating a major career shift, emphasizing that success comes not just from what you do, but from the people you impact along the way.

Unfortunately, the audio towards the end of the conversation became unuseable. Enjoy this abbreviated recording!

In this episode of #zigszagsandpivots, Samuel Rodriguez, a former US Army Warrant Officer, discusses his transition from a successful military career in logistics and transportation to a pivotal role in the energy sector, specifically offshore wind.

Samuel shares insights about his military background, the challenges he faced, and the importance of planning for retirement. He discusses how his military experience prepared him for his current role at Dominion Energy, emphasizing the value of leadership, teamwork, and adaptability.

Samuel also highlights the diverse career opportunities available in the energy sector, particularly for veterans, and encourages others to explore these paths.

Carroll Harris shares his extensive journey from a military upbringing to a successful career as a federal agent.

With 30 years of service in the US Marine Corps and nearly 17 years in the US Postal Inspection Service, Carroll reflects on the lessons learned, the challenges faced during transitions, and the impact of service on family life. He emphasizes the importance of adaptability, self-awareness, and the sacrifices that come with a career in law enforcement.

In this conversation, Carroll shares insights into the realities of being a federal agent, particularly within the Postal Service. He discusses common misconceptions about federal agents, the unique role of the Postal Service in law enforcement, and the challenges faced by postal workers.

Harris also addresses the opioid epidemic and its impact on society, the process of becoming a federal agent, and the valuable lessons learned throughout his career. He emphasizes the importance of hope and rehabilitation in law enforcement and shares his future aspirations as he approaches retirement.