Why I Left cover art

Why I Left

Why I Left

Written by: Brian Aquart
Listen for free

About this listen

Why I Left tells real stories from real people about the bold career moves that changed their lives.


Hosted by Brian Aquart, the show goes beyond resignations to uncover courage, clarity, and growth in the face of change. Each episode offers honest reflections, lessons learned, and practical insights for anyone considering a pivot, navigating uncertainty, or seeking inspiration for their next chapter.


We don’t talk about resignations enough, this podcast makes sure we do.


© 2026 Why I Left
Careers Economics Personal Success Self-Help Social Sciences Success
Episodes
  • I Did It My Way - Craig the Barber
    Aug 5 2025

    Send a message to the show

    On the Season 4 finale of Why I Left, Brian sits down with Craig Whitely, better known as Craig the Barber, who shares his inspiring journey from the world of finance to becoming an award-winning barber and founder of Burke Avenue, a premium mens grooming line. Discover how a passion for barbering, ignited by a simple gift from his father, led Craig to leap from bankings rigid structure to entrepreneurship, building a trusted brand recognized by Mens Health.

    Craig opens up about overcoming fear, the power of intentionality, and the importance of listening to consumers. Whether youre eyeing a major career pivot or striving to build a brand that truly stands out, this episode delivers invaluable lessons on resilience, personal fulfillment, and doing it your way. Dont miss Craigs practical advice for reinventing your career and thriving in a competitive industry!

    Enjoy!

    Stay connected with Guest

    Website: https://www.burkeavenue.com/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/craigthebarber

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigthebarber/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craigthebarber/


    Stay connected with Why I Left

    Visit: https://www.WhyILeft.co


    Subscribe:

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMgQI4X0kEp8-o7Z9D3tRmg

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-i-left/id1613667100

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TE4Y626idPxNeewpCG6Ef


    Follow:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialwhyileft/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/why-i-left/

    Connect with Brian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianaquart/

    Rate us 5 stars and share feedback:

    Your story deserves to be told with clarity and impact. That’s why I created Storyline by Kingswood to help executives, founders, and rising leaders align their presence with their next chapter.

    Kingswood Forest
    Helping leaders and organizations grow with clarity, confidence, and powerful storytelling.

    Support the show

    Show More Show Less
    40 mins
  • Igniting Leaders - Jordana Cole
    Jul 29 2025

    Send a message to the show

    Brian sits down with Jordana Cole, founder of Ignited LLC. Jordana shares her courageous decision to leave behind a successful corporate career and follow her passion for igniting leadership and transformation. Discover how her trailblazing path, from breaking barriers in her hometown to leading learning and development initiatives, helped her find her true calling.

    Jordana reveals the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, her philosophy on intentional, everyday leadership, and the importance of aligning passion with profession. Plus, get a sneak peek at her upcoming leadership book and actionable advice for anyone considering a bold career move. Dont miss this episode filled with insights, real stories, and practical tips to help you spark positive change in your journey!

    Enjoy!

    Stay connected with Guest

    Website: https://ignitedbyjordana.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordana-cole-mapp-pcc-a8445a8/


    Stay connected with Why I Left

    Visit: https://www.WhyILeft.co


    Subscribe:

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMgQI4X0kEp8-o7Z9D3tRmg

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-i-left/id1613667100

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TE4Y626idPxNeewpCG6Ef


    Follow:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialwhyileft/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/why-i-left/

    Connect with Brian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianaquart/

    Rate us 5 stars and share feedback:

    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-i-left/id1613667100


    Why I Left is happy to be part of the Alive Podcast Network, which offers a diverse range of shows featuring powerful storytelling, insightful conversations, and thoug

    Your story deserves to be told with clarity and impact. That’s why I created Storyline by Kingswood to help executives, founders, and rising leaders align their presence with their next chapter.

    Kingswood Forest
    Helping leaders and organizations grow with clarity, confidence, and powerful storytelling.

    Support the show

    Show More Show Less
    51 mins
  • Trust, Trauma & Leadership - Lori Swartz Eberly
    Jul 22 2025

    Send a message to the show

    Brian sits down with Lori Eberly, founder of Radius Executive Coaching and co-author of "Fuckery." Lori shares her compelling journey from hospice social worker to leadership development expert, revealing how grief, transition, and trust shape meaningful career change. Discover practical, neuroscience-backed strategies for navigating loss in your professional life, building resilience, and transforming team culture.

    Loris trauma-informed approach provides actionable insights on overcoming toxic workplace habits and fostering authentic connections. Whether you're considering your next career move or leading through change, don't miss this conversation packed with wisdom, humor, and real-life advice for making bold, intentional decisions. Check out the episode for inspiration to trust yourself, grieve what you leave behind, and step forward with clarity.

    Enjoy!

    Stay connected with Guest

    Website: https://www.radiusecd.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-swartz-eberly-msw-lcsw-licsw-74550964/


    Stay connected with Why I Left

    Visit: https://www.WhyILeft.co


    Subscribe:

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMgQI4X0kEp8-o7Z9D3tRmg

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-i-left/id1613667100

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TE4Y626idPxNeewpCG6Ef


    Follow:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialwhyileft/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/why-i-left/

    Connect with Brian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianaquart/

    Rate us 5 stars and share feedback: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-i-left/id1613667100


    Why I Left is happy to be part of the Alive Podcast Network, which offers a diverse range of shows featuring powerful storytelling, insightful conversations, and t

    Your story deserves to be told with clarity and impact. That’s why I created Storyline by Kingswood to help executives, founders, and rising leaders align their presence with their next chapter.

    Kingswood Forest
    Helping leaders and organizations grow with clarity, confidence, and powerful storytelling.

    Support the show

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 3 mins
No reviews yet