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It’s never too late to change careers. On this episode of The After Work Hangout, hear how a layoff prompted one person to build a career she truly loves.
Morgan Chojnacki listens to her heart. After 20+ years of experience in technical writing, non-profit communications, and community advocacy, she decided to make a change. Learn how she researched her options, balanced school and work, and ultimately launched her counselling practice. Friends and strangers supported her along the way, and now Morgan pays it forward by lifting others up.
In this episode:
- What does a registered clinical counsellor do? (1:09)
- Morgan’s career journey in writing, communications, and advocacy (3:32)
- Supportive relationships that enrich your life (8:07)
- The impact and gift of a sudden layoff (13:13)
- Morgan’s research on becoming a death doula (16:22)
- How counselling became the natural choice (20:55)
- What to consider when choosing a training program (25:52)
- How to afford going back to school (28:47)
- How to face uncertainty even if you’re scared (35:35)
- Resources to help name emotions (38:50)
- How Morgan nurtures self-compassion and recharges (43:17)
- Find your path by investigating yourself like a detective (45:27)
- You can take the zigzaggy route (48:12)
Resources mentioned:
- Dr. Dan Siegel’s work on mindful awareness
- Dr. Kirstin Neff’s work on self-compassion
- On Brené Brown’s resources page, see “Atlas of the Heart – List of Emotions”
- A sample feelings wheel
About the guest:
Morgan Chojnacki is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology and undergraduate and graduate degrees in other cultures, literature, and languages. In her practice, she supports clients navigating anxiety, relational injuries, life transitions, grief, and loss. She also works with individuals recovering from narcissistic relationships, those exploring alternative relationship structures, people grappling with identity challenges, and individuals experiencing burnout. Her goal is to create a safe and inclusive space where clients can explore their experiences, build resilience, and foster meaningful growth.
Connect with Morgan:
- Website: morgancounselling.com
About the host:
Crystal Lee is a career coach, writer, and workshop leader. As the founder of Relocal, she helps professionals clarify and communicate their strengths and values, so they can land their next opportunity. Since 2013, her clients have found dream jobs, settled in new communities, and successfully navigated major life transitions.
Crystal is a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC) with a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from the University of California, Los Angeles, and a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of British Columbia. When Crystal isn’t helping job seekers and business owners pursue their unique definitions of success, she’s organizing community gatherings, sharing laughter yoga, or growing food for humans and pollinators.
Connect with Crystal:
- Website: relocal.ca
- Instagram: @relocal.ca
- LinkedIn: Crystal Lee
- Sign up for Crystal’s monthly newsletter
- Get the free job search assessment workbook
Credits:
- Editing and support by podcast manager Lindsay Curtis
- Podcast artwork by Alex Dewar
