Hi! I am so glad you are here!
I want to start by being completely transparent: I don’t know what’s next for me.
Leaving Textio was bittersweet. It wasn’t just a job; it was a place where I felt safe, valued, and aligned with the mission. When the layoffs came, I knew it was my turn to take a hit. I didn’t want to leave, but sometimes, even when you love where you are, it’s time to move forward. And that’s okay. I’m stepping into what’s next with a full heart and open hands.
As I figure it out, I’m bringing you along for the ride. I’ll be sharing every lesson I’ve learned about creating better systems at work, building tools to help employees thrive, and finding ways to make work environments where no one feels alone again. I’m diving into research on AI, productivity tools, and building a planner I wish I had—a system to help us all design our best lives.
And yes, I’m looking for a job, but I’m also building something bigger. Something for all of us.
Because Here’s What I Know: Most of Us Are Running on Empty.
You’re spinning plates at work, doing your best to stay ahead, but deep down, you know you’re making money for people who don’t care about you. Oligarchs, executives, shareholders—they’re thriving while you’re stuck in a system that feels impossible to escape. You’re exhausted, siloed, and constantly putting your own dreams on the back burner.
And here’s the thing: You’re not stuck because you’re incapable. You’re stuck because you’re too busy being everything to everyone else.
What if you could take all the energy you’re pouring into someone else’s vision and start building something for yourself?
Not a hustle. Not another thing to add to your already full plate.
I’m talking about becoming an intrapreneur—developing a skill that aligns with what you care about, giving yourself the freedom to create your own Plan B, and never being a victim to layoffs or corporate politics again.
The People Puzzles Collective
I created The People Puzzles Collective because I know what it feels like to be underestimated, siloed, and overwhelmed. It’s not just about breaking free from a job that doesn’t value you—it’s about learning how to build something sustainable that actually matters to you.
Here’s what I know for sure:
Planning isn’t just about calendars and to-do lists. It’s about clarity—figuring out what you care about and creating a system that works for you.
You don’t have to fake it anymore. You can start building a life that feels like yours.
Skills are the key. The right skills let you grow something on the side that gives you power, purpose, and peace of mind.
To help you get started, I’m sharing The First Step Toolkit—a free resource that makes the overwhelming process of "starting something" feel manageable. If you implement the skills listed inside you’ll be able to:
Gain clarity on your goals.
Prioritize what truly matters.
Take actionable steps toward your dream life.
Take the first step today—start building a life that feels like yours!👉 Download the toolkit here
The Truth About Overwhelm
You’re Too Busy Building Someone Else’s Dream.
Every day, you’re giving your time, energy, and brilliance to people who don’t care about your long-term success. And that’s not your fault. The system is designed to keep you busy, distracted, and overwhelmed.But here’s the thing: You can change that. Starting today, you can take back your time and start creating something that aligns with what you want.
You’re Not Overwhelmed. You’re Misaligned.
Overwhelm doesn’t come from doing too much. It comes from doing the wrong things—things that don’t feel meaningful or fulfilling. When you’re aligned with your purpose, things fall into place. The right tools and systems can help.Plan B Isn’t Optional Anymore.
The job market is unpredictable. Layoffs happen without warning. Having a skill, a side project, or a business in the works isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. And the best time to start was yesterday. The next best time? Right now.
Let’s Redefine Success
Success isn’t about doing everything. It’s about doing what matters.
Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing:
Frameworks to help you plan your time and energy more effectively.
Strategies for building a side project that aligns with your goals.
Stories of others who’ve created freedom by focusing on what matters.
But today, I want you to take the first step:
What’s Coming Next
Last week on But First, Coffee, we talked about The Art of Listening—how it’s more than just hearing words, but the secret ingredient to meaningful connections. (If you missed it, watch the episode here.)
This week, we’re diving into something equally important: taking care of ourselves and each other.
In this week’s episode of But First, Coffee, Jackye and John explore how to brew a culture of care—both personally and professionally. We’ll talk about:
Why mental health isn’t just a buzzword.
How to support your team through tough times.
Practical ways to keep your cup (and your team’s) full.
This isn’t just about feeling good. It’s about doing good work—the kind that matters.
P.S.
Dive deeper into these conversations on my Inclusive AF Podcast and YouTube Channel for more tools and insights to help you design your best life. Let’s connect!