Is The Washington Post's Layoff Strategy a Sign of Journalism's Future Crisis?

Exploring Life Beyond Executive Roles: The Interval's Purpose-Driven Community

Update Finding Clarity After the C-Suite: The Journey Begins The transition from high-profile corporate roles can often be both exhilarating and daunting. For many senior leaders, stepping away from the C-suite is uncharted territory fraught with uncertainty. In late 2023, Shelley Huff, the former CEO of Serta Simmons Bedding, faced this exact scenario. After guiding the company through a complex restructuring, Huff made a brave decision, taking a structured year-long sabbatical to pause and reflect on her career trajectory. "I made a decision that initially felt uncomfortable for someone who had prioritized work for decades: I paused," she shared, echoing a sentiment many executives wrestle with during transitional periods. The Birth of The Interval: A Community for Executives In this evolving landscape of leadership transitions, Huff, alongside fellow executive Maryam Banikarim, recognized a gap for support systems tailored for former executives. Together, they founded The Interval, a peer community designed specifically for C-suite leaders navigating their next steps after high-stakes roles. As Banikarim articulated, “We’ve created a community where senior executives can pause, reflect, and be honest about what’s next—without judgment.” This safe space reflects a growing recognition among leaders that shared experiences and peer guidance are crucial during career pivots. Understanding the Unspoken Challenges of Transition With the rise of AI disruptions and rapidly changing markets, the questions facing senior executives have widened beyond traditional business scope—now focusing on identity, purpose, and personal values. The findings from LHH’s recent survey highlighted similar sentiments, revealing that 60% of executives crave a comprehensive range of career support, including peer mentoring, reflective practices, and community engagement. As Huff stated, recognizing these transition moments as opportunities for intentional reflection—rather than obligations—can ultimately lead to more fulfilling leadership journeys. How Leaders Create Their Next Chapters The countless stories shared within The Interval community exemplify the diverse pathways available for C-suite leaders post-transition. From starting new ventures to enjoying newfound time with family and pursuing personal interests, there are myriad opportunities for rediscovery. Many leaders, like Banikarim, have experienced this firsthand; after realizing her son needed her support during a pivotal moment in his education, she paused her corporate ambitions to be fully present at home, illustrating the multifaceted nature of leadership beyond job titles. The Power of Peer Support and Mentorship Executive networks and peer support structures like The Interval symbolize a significant shift in how leadership experiences are disseminated and understood. They allow leaders to share insights and foster accountability while also addressing stigmas surrounding career breaks. The platform is designed to promote constructive discussions on high-level transitions, where leaders can not only share personal anecdotes but also gain actionable insights to maintain their sense of purpose and fulfillment. Looking Ahead: Future Trends in Executive Transitions As the business world adapts to an unpredictable economy, the pathways taken by executives will continue to evolve. Communities like The Interval may very well set a precedent for future endeavors in executive leadership, whereby collaboration, empathy, and shared experiences pave the way for growth. Executive transitions are no longer merely about job searches; they’re about rethinking the essence of leadership in a landscape where human connection and purpose reign supreme. Take Action: Join the Movement for Purposeful Leadership The story of The Interval underscores the value of community for leaders undergoing significant transitions. If you resonate with the challenges faced by executives navigating change, consider exploring or joining a network that aligns with your professional and personal goals. Engaging in these conversations can illuminate your path and provide a support system during these critical moments of growth.