In this episode of The SoulFire Sessions, hosts Alex and Mariah sit down with Jordan Tate, who opens up about his powerful journey through job loss, identity shifts, faith, and rediscovering purpose. He shares the emotional realities of being laid off, from self-doubt and grief to unexpected peace, and how community, courage, and stillness helped him navigate a year without traditional employment.
Jordan reflects on listening to internal nudges, following unexpected signs (including tears in a 100-year-old house and a school hallway), and choosing authenticity even when it meant breaking norms. His story culminates in finding meaningful work that aligns deeply with who he is and how he wants to serve others. This conversation invites listeners to trust their path, honor their intuition, and stay open to purpose beyond what they originally imagined.
Takeaways
~ A layoff does not define your worth or identity.
~ It is normal to grieve the loss of a job and routine.
~ Asking “What did I do wrong?” can become a tool for growth rather than shame.
~ Rest and stillness can be deeply productive seasons.
~ Listening to your body and emotions can reveal direction and alignment.
~ Authenticity in how you present yourself opens the right doors.
~ Community and support systems are essential during transition.
~ Courage sometimes looks like doing nothing and waiting.
~ Faith, intuition, and sensitivity to “signs” can guide next steps.
~ The right partner can help “push back the darkness” during difficult seasons.
~ Purpose may look different than you originally envisioned.
~ You can emulate people who inspire you without trying to become them.
In this episode
00:00: Introduction to The SoulFire Sessions
01:18: Meet Jordan: friendship, background, and life before the layoff
04:56: The layoff: first reactions, grief, and “What did I do wrong?”
09:31: Identity, self-doubt, and navigating a year without work
15:23: Rest, reflection, faith, and learning to be still
21:11: Unexpected clarity: the house, the move, and following the pull to Ohio
26:05: Coaching, community, and staying open to possibility
28:30: The school, authenticity, and the honest interview
32:49: A new calling: directing high school expansion and finding alignment
40:49: Advice for anyone facing a layoff or big transition
48:15: What sets Jordan’s soul on fire
52:15: How to find what sets your soul on fire