What does it really take to climb the corporate ladder without losing your soul in the process? This episode is packed with insight for thoughtful professionals ready to lead without burning out.

In this candid conversation, Diana Alt sits down with Jeff Mockaitis, General Manager at Rahn USA Corporation, to explore how strong leadership is rooted in reflection, strategic risk-taking, and long-term thinking, not just doing more, faster. Jeff opens up about his unexpected path from chemistry lab work to executive leadership, the game-changing power of an MBA, and how embracing his top CliftonStrengths (like context!) helped him make meaningful, deliberate moves throughout his career.

You’ll hear real talk about imposter syndrome, mid-career pivots, building internal advocates, and leading with integrity even when the pressure is on. Whether you're eyeing your next promotion or building toward long-term leadership, this one’s for you.

⏳ Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 02:02 College Jeff would’ve laughed at today’s Jeff 04:45 Why Jeff almost pursued a history degree 07:19 How his love for history makes him a better leader 10:21 Avoiding analysis paralysis with CliftonStrengths 14:08 Jeff’s transition from chemist to business leader 16:15 The $50K decision that changed everything 23:09 “I’m not getting smarter anymore” — a turning point 27:00 From sales rep to GM: how Jeff got mentored up 29:00 Why relying on one internal advocate isn’t enough 31:00 What great leadership actually looks like 34:00 Managing identity and ambition in the corporate world

💡 Take action 🔥 Subscribe for future episodes → https://www.youtube.com/@dianaalt 📖 Grab my Resume Don’ts Guide → https://www.dianaalt.com/resumedonts ❌ Avoid these common job search mistakes → https://www.jobsearchmistakes.com 🚪 Wondering if it’s time to walk away? → https://www.isittimetowalk.com 💼 Work with me → https://www.dianaalt.com

📢 Connect with Jeff Mockaitis 🌐 Rahn USA Corporation → http://www.rahn-group.com/🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffmockaitis 📺 YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@Rahn-Group

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