Patti Vasquez is joined in studio by Geoff Curtis, Chicago-based author of "Embracing Your Own Purgatory." Curtis discussed how losing a long-held job can destabilize professional identity and how self-reflection can help people navigate career change.

Here is a brief summary of the conversation:
- Curtis’s role became redundant after his company was acquired, leading to depression and a realization that work had defined his identity for 30 years.
- He described professional identity as “armor” that provided comfort while also shielding him from emotions and relationships.
- He emphasized that job loss, industry change, and AI may require people to rethink how closely they tie self-worth to employment.
- Curtis advised people to ask who they are outside work, identify their values and purpose, and allow time for self-discovery during transitions.

Catch "Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez" weekdays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/driving-it-home).

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