Episode 132:

Preparing to Pivot: Career Lessons with Jacquie Carroll, AFC®

Download the transcript or watch on Youtube!

On this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Brandy Baxter sit down with Dr. Jacquie Carroll—educator, researcher, speaker, and Accredited Financial Counselor®—to talk about the power of the pivot.

Jacquie shares her non-linear career journey, from higher education and HR to financial counseling and now launching her own legacy project, GameKraft, a financial education game designed to help people learn in engaging, accessible ways.

Together, they explore:

  1. Why pivots—both planned and unexpected—are essential to personal and professional growth.
  2. How AFCs can prepare clients for an ever-changing workforce.
  3. The importance of leaning into community, mentorship, and side hustles.
  4. Why success isn’t about a straight path, but about being ready when preparation meets opportunity.

Whether you’re considering a career change, supporting clients through transitions, or just need inspiration to embrace the unexpected, this conversation is full of wisdom, encouragement, and practical takeaways.

Show Notes: 

2:15 Jacquie’s Early Career

6:40 Discovering Financial Counseling 

12:05 Embracing Career Pivots 

18:20 Building Community & Connection 

24:45 The Birth of GameKraft 

32:10 Legacy & Impact 

38:00 Jacquie’s 2 Cents

Show Note Links:

Learn more about Jacquie’s journey!

Connect with Jacquie on Linkedin!

Learn about GameKraft!

Jacquie’s favorite resources!

Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
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Want to get involved with AFCPE®?
Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today!

Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.

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