Why Listen:
You see patterns, connect dots, and spark change—but feel invisible.
Episode Description:
What does it mean to thrive as a generalist in a world that still rewards specialization? In this conversation, Siobhán O’Riordan, author of Reframe: How Generalists Thrive in a Changing World, joins to explore the often-overlooked value of generalists in today’s volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) landscape. From the messy journey of writing a book to the deeper questions of visibility, self-definition, and career navigation, this episode offers practical insights and empowering encouragement for those who don’t fit neatly into traditional career boxes. Whether you’re leading change, navigating systems that weren’t built for you, or simply trying to articulate your worth—this one’s for you.
Key Highlights:
- Book Insight: Siobhán’s journey to writing Reframe and why she centered it around helping generalists gain visibility and confidence.
- VUCA World: How generalists are uniquely equipped to thrive in volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous environments.
- Identity and Advocacy: The importance of self-awareness, defining your own value, and managing up in systems built for specialists.
- Practical Tools: Strategies for identifying your best context, communicating your worth, and reflecting on how you solve problems.
- Cultural Shift: Why generalists stepping forward isn’t just personal—it’s a needed intervention for organizations facing complex challenges.

About Siobhán:
A life-long Generalist, Siobhán is a Gallup Global CliftonStrengths ®™Coach, advisor, and founder of Big Sea Strategies. Passionate about talent back to the table, Siobhán writes and speaks about the talent needed for the future, including Generalists and strengths-based development and growth. Reframe is her first book
Find Siobhán Here
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saoriordan/
- Website: https://www.bigseastrategies.com/
- Other links: Free Book Chapters: https://big-sea-strategies.kit.com/7b06068914