I quit law school, then quit my PhD - and spent years wondering if that made me a quitter or just someone on the wrong path.
In this episode of EDIT HISTORY, my friend Jennifer Ho interviews me as I open up about the parts of my journey that never show up on a resume: The guilt of disappointing my Asian parents, wanting to look "successful," and learning to make decisions that I am proud of.
This is a conversation about high-functioning doubt, career pivots, and choosing work you can stand behind - even when it doesn't immediately make sense to others.
TIMETAMPS
(00:00) Trailer
(00:47) Opening
(01:47) The story my resume can't tell
(06:02) How I used to define success
(06:46) Why law school and a PhD didn't actually fit me
(11:38) How long I knew something had to change - before I quit
(15:21) The strengths I carried through every pivot
(20:31) How do you know when something isn't right - even if you're good at it?
(23:27) The skill gaps I'm actively working on now
(26:47) How I'm thinking about future-proofing my career
(30:53) My edge vs and the part of my work that still scares me
(32:21) What an irresponsible career risk looks like
(33:29) What will never need to be on my resume
(36:34) Closing
CONNECT WITH CHERYL LAU
Website: https://cheryllau.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cheryltheory
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cheryltheory
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryllau
WORK WITH CHERYL LAU
I produce distinctive and deeply resonant podcasts for leaders and organizations who want their content to command attention, spark meaningful conversations, and attract high-value opportunities.
I ensure your podcast isn't just another show in the feed - it's an asset that elevates your authority and moves your work forward.
Here are 3 ways we can work together:
✨ 1:1 Editorial Podcast Production
✨ Corporate Podcast Producing & Consulting
✨ Hosting for Corporate Shows
Schedule a discovery call for us to explore what working together might look like: https://cheryllau.com/discovery
CONTACT
Please email hello@cheryllau.com for business inquiries.
