Messy Middles and Meaningful Career Moves: Amanda Stockwell on Designing What’s Next

In this episode of Lift Up Connections, Christine sits down with Amanda Stockwell, a longtime UX consultant, Duke University professor, and co-founder of The List, a nonprofit connecting university students to startups.

We explore what it means to take big and brave career steps without knowing exactly where you will land. Amanda shares how she transitioned from corporate roles to consulting, then into teaching and nonprofit leadership. Each time, Amanda was driven by intuition, connection, and a desire to do meaningful work.

Christine and Amanda discuss:

• Navigating burnout and seeking more purpose
• Embracing the “messy middle” of career and life pivots
• Taking action even when you’re afraid or unsure
• Building work around your values and strengths
• The power of authentic relationships and community

Whether you're figuring out your next act or feeling stuck in between, Amanda offers a grounded and optimistic look at how to keep going. And why you don’t need to have it all figured out to start!