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When you hear the word "no," what do you do? Do you stop? Spiral? Start questioning everything? Or … do you pivot?

Here's the truth: rejection isn't the end—it's often the plot twist that changes everything. The real question isn't if you'll face rejection, it's how you respond when it happens.

Jessica Bacal, MFA, EdD, is the Director of Reflective Practices at Smith College, where she co-developed and teaches a class about imagining and practicing the navigation of uncertain futures. She's also the author of The Rejection that Changed My Life and Mistakes I Made at Work, where she shares the real stories behind successful women's career journeys—the messy and rejection-filled paths we don't always see.

In my conversation with Jessica, we talk about embracing change in your career journey, steps to take after facing rejection, and the importance of reaching out to your network. To hear the full conversation, download my podcast interview!