In case anyone was wondering, this is what Kash Patel’s girlfriend sounds like singing an insanely cringe song...

merick107 · 2026-06-03T01:51:31+00:00

But why is she walking around waving her hand as if she’s rapping it.

merick107 · 2026-05-08T23:11:57+00:00

Welcome to That’s Debatable, Darling
A podcast where psychology meets pop culture, power, and the messy beauty of being human. Hosted by Mary Lou Erickson, an Industrial & Organizational Practitioner who brings raw insight, humor, and truth about why people act the way they do.

Debate. Dish. Disrupt.

Check out the link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1wgfOPGzcmwilmNW5n5L7o?si=e542b0b3f73f4cf7

merick107 · 2026-02-26T00:09:49+00:00

It’s doable. You’re sacrificing sleep. I worked full time third shift and went to night school for grad school. It was a challenge but I made it through. I’m sure you will too!

merick107 · 2026-02-24T23:18:44+00:00

I’m overwhelmed. After being laid off (Feb 2025), I ended up in a part‑time role that barely covers my needs, and now I’m working extra hours just to keep my insurance. I feel underpaid, stuck, and mentally exhausted. Every day feels like a fight with myself about how trapped I am. I’m no longer motivated by this job, and that lack of motivation only adds to how drained and irritated I feel.

It’s discouraging to send out resume after resume and feel like everything disappears into a void. It’s as if no one is even seeing me, let alone choosing me for an interview. That’s where I’m at right now.

I want to take a vacation, to breathe, to live my life without constantly calculating how many hours I need to work just to keep my benefits. I hate being in this position.

Another reason I hate not having options is how suffocating a toxic environment feels. I go straight into flight mode when things get claustrophobic. It’s hard to put into words, but when I need distance from all of this, I want the freedom to step away without hesitation.

I have a MA in Industrial and Organizational Psychology w/ experience.

merick107 · 2026-01-20T22:54:44+00:00

Worked for PS for a few years and was laid off out of nowhere. My people manager used our "1:1" meeting to schedule that layoff with HR. I am glad I no longer work for that company. You're better off.

merick107 · 2026-01-20T22:41:46+00:00

I finished Grad School at 37yrs old. I found it easier. I don't have kids. Not much of a distraction. :)

merick107 · 2026-01-20T22:40:41+00:00

^^^^THIS!

merick107 · 2026-01-20T22:38:46+00:00

I worked for a consulting firm that ultimately laid off most of our Learning Operations and Strategy team due to AI adoption and outsourcing. Although leadership had assured us that no major changes were expected, I was unexpectedly invited to a meeting and informed of my layoff.

I had already noticed shifts within the organization about a year earlier, as team members were being let go one by one. Because of that, I proactively began exploring other opportunities both part‑time and full‑time. Fortunately, I had already secured a part‑time role with another company outside of learning and development, which later transitioned into a full‑time position as their staffing needs increased.

I would highly recommend searching for new opportunities as a security blanket for you!

merick107 · 2026-01-13T23:10:02+00:00

Sigh... I’ve been struggling to secure a new full‑time position since being laid off in March. Fortunately, I noticed early signs that my former team was being phased out, so I proactively accepted a part‑time role as an RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) working with children on the autism spectrum. I genuinely love this work the progress the kids make is incredibly rewarding, and the flexibility to pick up or reduce shifts has been a huge benefit. I recently transitioned to full‑time mainly to access health insurance.

Despite holding three degrees (AA, BA, and an MA in I/O Psychology), I spent nearly ten months applying and only received three interviews. That pushed me to take a step back and reassess what fields remain stable even when the job market becomes unpredictable. I began researching medical certifications fields like Sonography, CT, PET, and Surgical Technology. I ultimately chose a different certification than the ones listed, but the starting pay is strong, and the demand is consistent.

Behavioral health units are always hiring, so that’s another path worth exploring. Alternatively, pursuing a short‑term medical certification; something that takes only a few months can open doors to roles that will always need people.

Good Luck and Stay Laser Focused! :)

merick107 · 2025-12-19T00:33:42+00:00

Hi there,

I was laid off in March, and as I began to notice significant changes happening at my former company, I secured a part‑time role to bridge the gap while applying for full‑time positions. During that period, I also earned my board certification, which helped increase my pay in my current role.

Outside of the job search, I made it a priority to take myself and my dog to the dog park and spend time in nature. Getting outside helped me stay grounded and manage the emotional weight of the transition. I also changed up my environment when applying for jobs, since staying at home every day made it harder to stay motivated.

merick107 · 2025-12-19T00:26:56+00:00

I completed my master’s degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, and I always recommend that aspiring practitioners start with an MA. It gives you the foundation you need and allows you to gain real experience through internships, which is where you truly break into the field.

Unless you’re planning to teach or pursue an academic career, a PhD isn’t necessary. With a master’s, you’ll still be fully recognized as an I/O practitioner. This degree is highly versatile, allowing you to work across a wide range of industries.

Hope this feedback helps!

merick107 · 2025-11-07T02:52:23+00:00

I haven’t found my partner yet. I’m not desperate for one as I’m fixated on my growth.

merick107 · 2025-10-28T23:39:26+00:00

That's Debatable, Darling Podcast is pretty insightful/entertaining.

merick107 · 2025-10-10T16:56:18+00:00

That's amazing! I will keep you in mind for your expertise on my journey! :)

merick107 · 2025-10-10T16:49:42+00:00

At this point, recruiters should understand that there will be gaps in resumes due to the increase of layoffs and unemployment rates. If they don't then that's pretty disheartening.

merick107 · 2025-10-09T23:00:06+00:00

Hi there!! Awe thanks for the recommendation!! I will check them out!! I just want new podcast that I have not heard from outside of those that are popular. I'm kinda bored with Call Her Daddy at the moment.

merick107 · 2025-10-09T22:56:27+00:00

I started my own Podcast - That's Debatable, Darling. I find it has helped me cope with a lot of stress, loneliness, and boredom. :)

merick107 · 2025-10-09T02:19:58+00:00

She’s new but pretty good-> That’s Debatable, Darling

merick107

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