Career Glide Path

About Career Glide Path

What does it actually look like to leave the "sure thing" for the "unknown"? Success is rarely a straight line, yet we often only see the finished result. Career Glide Path pulls back the curtain on the most pivotal moments in professional life: the transition. Whether it’s a leap into entrepreneurship, a mid-life industry pivot, or stepping into a high-level leadership role, every move has a story that isn't on the résumé. Each episode, we sit down with established leaders to deconstruct their personal "glide paths." We don't just talk about the wins; we dive deep into: The Catalyst: Why the transition happened and the "spark" that triggered the change. The Crossroads: How the decision was made—the logic, the intuition, and the risks involved. The Turbulence: The biggest challenges faced during the messy middle of a career shift. The Landing: How they found their footing and what they learned on the other side. Career Glide Path is more than just a career podcast; it’s a toolkit for the ambitious and the restless. If you are feeling stuck, contemplating a change, or navigating your own professional evolution, join us for honest conversations designed to empower you to pave your own pathway with confidence. Power by www.zaytouna.coach (http://www.zaytouna.coach)

Publisher

Career Glide Path

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

25 Jul 2026

Latest episode

3 Nov 2026

Latest episodes

8 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   3 Nov 2026

   Episode 7 - Starting Again at 60: Why Starting Over Is Not Starting From Zero - Theo Stevens

   What if the career path you thought you wanted fell apart - and that turned out to be the beginning of your most meaningful work? T Stevens shares the hard-won lessons behind four decades of reinvention, from the Royal Netherlands Navy to leadership roles in security, resilience, banking, and pharma. Host Fatma Ismail draws out the real story behind the résumé: how a childhood illness, family upheaval, and repeated career setbacks shaped a leader who learned to adapt without losing his values. This conversation is for anyone facing a transition, questioning their next move, or wondering whether starting again means starting from zero. You'll discover why Theo believes resilience begins with looking back at what you've already survived, not just staring at the next obstacle. He breaks down the three things that create career growth, the difference between choosing change and being forced into it, and why focusing on strengths - not weaknesses - unlocks better teams, better KPIs, and better lives. We also get into his people-first leadership style, including how he handled crisis management through major events, built trust across countries and cultures, and helped individuals grow into roles they never thought possible. One of the most powerful moments comes when Theo explains why small acts of belief can change the course of someone else's life. Now building a new chapter at 60, Theo is channeling his experience into coaching, training, mental resilience, and health-focused support for people in the second half of life. If you're navigating a pivot, rebuilding after disappointment, or trying to lead with more purpose, this episode is a sharp, honest reminder that your best move may still be ahead. Fatma Ismail is the host of Career Glide Path and founder of Zaituna Coach, bringing a thoughtful, coaching-led approach to career transitions and leadership growth. Theo Stevens brings more than 40 years of cross-sector leadership experience, including 10 years in the Royal Netherlands Navy and senior roles in security, resilience, facility leadership, and pharma operations. Perfect for professionals in transition, leaders who want to build trust, and anyone ready to turn uncertainty into momentum.

2. 

   20 Oct 2026

   Episode 6 - The Career Pivot That Turned a Banker into a Regenerative Coach - Kai Kaldewaaij

   Kai Kaldewaaij on rebuilding a career around purpose, not pressure Most people don’t realize the fastest way to lose yourself in a career is to keep succeeding at the wrong one. Executive coach Kai Kaldewaaij shares how he went from law and global finance to a life built around alignment, resilience, and helping others navigate change with clarity.Fatma Ismail guides a thoughtful conversation with Kai about the moments that changed everything - from graduating into the financial crisis and landing in banking, to recognizing that high achievement and personal fulfillment were not the same thing. Kai explains why COVID became a catalyst for rethinking his future, how he learned to trust the feeling that a role was no longer aligned, and why some of the biggest transitions in life require patience, flexibility, and honest self-awareness.You’ll discover: Why Kai says sustainable success starts with personal alignment, not constant achievement How he knew finance was never really his passion, even while he was doing well in it The role family, adoption, travel, and cross-cultural experience played in shaping his openness to change Why he sees resilience less as toughness and more as adaptability How nature informs his regenerative coaching approach, including the Dutch windmill setting where he works The story behind Treehouse Foundation, his mission to make high-quality coaching accessible regardless of financial means Kai also opens up about launching a nonprofit structure, building a board and advisory circle, and how the foundation quickly grew from an idea into an organization supporting newcomers, refugees, seniors, and people in need of coaching who would otherwise be shut out by cost.This conversation is especially valuable if you’re standing at a career crossroads, questioning whether your current path still fits, or trying to build something meaningful without losing yourself in the process. The episode closes with a simple but powerful reminder: ask for help, listen broadly, but stay true to your own path, even when uncertainty gets loud.Perfect for leaders, career changers, coaches, and anyone trying to create work that feels as good on the inside as it looks from the outside.

3. 

   6 Oct 2026

   Episode 5 - Why Niching Down Makes You More Referable, Not Less - Kay Mckenzie

   Kay Mckenzie on the networking mistake that kills referrals - and the positioning shift that fixes it. thatMost entrepreneurs are losing referrals because people cannot remember exactly what they do. Kay McKenzie breaks down why being a "jack of all trades" makes you harder to recommend, and how to position yourself so the right people can repeat your value in three seconds or less.Fatma Ismail sits down with Kay, the community architect behind Women in alignment, a business growth ecosystem for female entrepreneurs built around networking, education, collaboration, and community. Kay shares how a lonely COVID lockdown in Turkey pushed her from corporate life into entrepreneurship, why she chose to "burn the ships" and go all in, and how that decision changed everything.You'll discover: why visibility is not about being the loudest voice, but about showing up with purpose how Kay built a community that blends business growth with personal development and spiritual alignment the difference between collecting contacts and creating real partnerships why resilience in relationships matters more than walking away at the first challenge how to niche down so people see you as a specialist, not a generic service provider Kay also shares the mindset and practical skills that helped her adapt from corporate support systems to founder-led reality, including digital marketing, websites, automation, strategic partnerships, and the discipline required to keep moving when motivation dips. She explains why genuine collaboration beats competition, and why the best communities are built on sincerity, authenticity, and mutual support.If you're trying to grow your business, get better referrals, or build a network that actually opens doors, this conversation is packed with clarity, encouragement, and practical positioning advice. Essential listening for entrepreneurs, women building businesses, and anyone who wants their network to start working for them instead of confusing them.

4. 

   22 Sept 2026

   Episode 4 - The Soul in the Machine: Staying Human in a High-Tech World - Johanna Herfter

   In this episode of Career Glide Path, Fatma Ismail sits down with Johanna, an innovation strategist, AI practitioner, and advocate for human-centered technology, to explore what it really means to build a career that feels aligned. Johanna shares how she navigated major career transitions, learned to trust her values, and made difficult decisions based on freedom, authenticity, and well-being rather than status or salary. From turning down high-paying job offers to building a startup while working full-time, Johanna opens up about the realities of chasing meaningful growth. She talks about learning to work with limited resources, staying motivated through constant learning, and overcoming self-doubt, criticism, and failure along the way. This conversation is a thoughtful reminder that career decisions are not just logical—they’re deeply personal. If you’ve ever questioned whether a “good” opportunity was actually right for you, this episode will encourage you to listen to yourself, ask better questions, and define success on your own terms.

5. 

   8 Sept 2026

   Episode 3 - Why Focusing on Impact, Not Metrics, Became My Motivator at Work - Jenn Overmeyer

   Unlock the secrets to navigating bold career transformations and crafting a life that truly aligns with your values. If you’ve ever felt stuck in your role or unsure about your next move, this episode is your game-changer. Jenn Overmeyer, an accomplished leadership coach and former manufacturing executive, shares her powerful journey of transitioning from technical roles to coaching and consulting — and how she turned challenges into opportunities for growth. She reveals the pivotal moments that pushed her to redefine success, from moving away from a high-stakes corporate environment to building her own impactful coaching business. You’ll discover: - The key mindset shifts that help overcome fear and uncertainty in career pivoting. - How strong core values like trust and positivity can propel you through seismic changes. - Transferable skills — especially listening and partnership — that build resilient teams and authentic client relationships. - Practical approaches to balancing ambition with authenticity, including how to set meaningful success metrics beyond money and titles. - The importance of community and ongoing learning in maintaining motivation and staying accountable during big transitions. This episode highlights why waiting for the “perfect” moment is a trap — and how embracing imperfection can accelerate your growth. Whether you're contemplating a career switch, scaling a new venture, or simply seeking clarity in your next chapter, Jen’s insights provide the blueprint for courageous, purpose-driven change. Perfect for leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone ready to rewrite their story with confidence. Tune in to feel inspired, informed, and ready to take your next bold step.

6. 

   25 Aug 2026

   Episode 2 - Planting a Forest not only One Tree - Matthijs Wilhelmus

   Most people see career as a straight path up a single ladder. But what if success isn’t about climbing, it’s about evolving—building forests instead of trees? Matthijs Wilhelmus shows how thinking long-term, embracing change, and cultivating ecosystems can lead to sustainable impact and personal fulfillment. In this episode, Matthijs shares profound lessons from his unconventional journey—from world-champion Jiu-Jitsu fighter to seasoned entrepreneur and investor. Discover why success is a continuous journey of learning, why building ecosystems matters more than individual achievements, and how to leverage courage for transformative career shifts. You’ll uncover: - Why focusing on ecosystems instead of individual roles accelerates growth - How to pivot confidently across industries and roles without losing your way - The importance of discipline, self-awareness, and honesty in decision-making - Why setbacks are opportunities for learning and how to embrace failure - Practical strategies to build resilience and maintain energy during tough transitions Whether you’re contemplating a career change, striving for greater impact, or simply seeking inspiration to keep moving forward, this episode is your guide to cultivating a forest of opportunity. Success isn’t a destination—it's a way of travel. Join Matthijs—an accomplished leader who’s navigated multiple industries, mastered the art of continuous learning, and never stopped moving forward. Perfect for lifelong learners, ambitious professionals, and anyone ready to redefine what success means. Why wait for opportunity to knock? Prepare yourself, embrace courage, and start building your own forest today.

7. 

   11 Aug 2026

   Episode 1 - My Story: Taking my career in my own hands

   Most career growth stories follow the same script—until now. Discover how leaders are smashing the traditional mold of stability and choosing freedom over fear. Fatma Ismail from Zaytouna Coach reveals the bold mindset shift that helped her and others turn career transitions into powerful reinventions. In this eye-opening episode, you'll hear firsthand stories of ambitious professionals who refused to stay stuck in unfulfilling roles. Fatma shares her own journey from a stagnant entry-level engineer to a confident leader who took control of her destiny by embracing change and breaking stereotypes about stability. Her secret? Building a career path rooted in core values, market awareness, and fearless movement. We break down: 1. How to recognize when your current job no longer serves your growth 2. The mindset shifts required to leave comfort zones behind 3. Practical steps to navigate career pivots with courage 4. Key lessons from leaders who chose independence over conformity 5. Why your career is an active journey, not a passive waiting game This episode is perfect for anyone feeling trapped in a role that no longer excites them—whether you're an emerging leader, a seasoned professional, or just starting out. Staying stuck means missing out on growth, possibility, and fulfillment. The opportunity lies in redefining your path on your terms—without waiting for permission. If you're ready to stop settling and start flying free, this is your wake-up call. Tune in to hear how passionate leaders are rewriting their stories—and how you can, too. Your next chapter begins now. Fatma Ismail is a seasoned engineering leader and founder of Zaytuna Coach, known for her bold approach to career transformation and leadership development. www.Careerglidepath.com (http://www.Careerglidepath.com) Powered by www.zaytouna.coach (http://www.zaytouna.coach)

8. 

   25 Jul 2026

   Trailer: From Achievement to Authenticity: Rethinking Your Career Path

   Feeling trapped at the top of your career, despite reaching every milestone? What if the view from the summit isn’t what you expected — and the climb is leaving you burnt out? Discover how top leaders are bravely leaving what no longer fits, transforming their careers and lives by taking the courage to glide away from success that no longer serves them . This episode explores the raw realities behind the career shifts that many hesitate to make, but ultimately redefine their purpose and happiness.Most of us are taught to "keep grinding" no matter what. But what if the real growth comes from knowing when to stop climbing? Kareer Glide Path, powered by Zaytuna Coach, dives deep into the stories of leaders who dared to abandon the old grind — sharing the grit, risks, and breakthroughs that come with choosing a new path. From navigating fear to redefining success on your own terms, you'll hear practical ideas on how to listen to your authentic self and make a bold transition.We break down: How to recognize when your current role feels like a cage, not a stepping stone The mindset shifts needed to embrace change before burnout takes over Real stories of leaders who successfully pivoted, with lessons you can apply today Concrete strategies to evaluate if your career is still aligned with who you are now The emotional resilience required to leave behind the familiar and forge a new path If you've ever felt like your career no longer reflects your true self, this episode is your invitation to rethink the grind and craft a path that fits your evolving purpose. Staying in the wrong job risks stagnation — stepping into a new direction opens up fresh opportunities for fulfillment, impact, and growth.This isn’t just about career advice; it’s about reclaiming your freedom to design a life that energizes you. Perfect for anyone feeling stuck or ready to pivot, this episode will inspire you to take that first brave step. Your next chapter begins now — are you ready to glide? Hosted by Fatma Ismail, a leader passionate about helping you rewrite your career story with courage and clarity.

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Spotify

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.