Ep231 Mary Angela Baker - Act Three Leadership: How to Expand Your Network Before You Need It
Wed Feb 04 2026
In this episode, Mike O'Neill sits down with leadership consultant Mary Angela Baker to explore a critical question most leaders ignore: What happens to your network when you enter "Act Three" of your career?
Mary Angela introduces the concept of Act Three—that pivotal stage where leaders have accumulated wisdom and expertise but often find their professional networks shrinking just when they need them most. She walks Mike through a powerful six-step framework (reflect, connect, explore, choose, repack, and act) that helps leaders intentionally plan their next chapter instead of accidentally stumbling into it.
Listeners will learn how to build networks before they need them... why networking isn't transactional when done right... and the surprising reason isolation becomes more dangerous as careers progress. Mary Angela shares real examples from her work with AARP, the International Leadership Association, and her experience helping leaders navigate major career transitions.
Mike and Mary Angela also discuss why the most successful leaders diversify their networks beyond their industries... the one weekly habit that keeps relationships alive... and how taking small actions beats endless planning every time.
Whether you're leading a team today or preparing for what comes next, this episode delivers practical strategies to ensure your network grows stronger—not weaker—as your career evolves.
Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/231
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In this episode, Mike O'Neill sits down with leadership consultant Mary Angela Baker to explore a critical question most leaders ignore: What happens to your network when you enter "Act Three" of your career? Mary Angela introduces the concept of Act Three—that pivotal stage where leaders have accumulated wisdom and expertise but often find their professional networks shrinking just when they need them most. She walks Mike through a powerful six-step framework (reflect, connect, explore, choose, repack, and act) that helps leaders intentionally plan their next chapter instead of accidentally stumbling into it. Listeners will learn how to build networks before they need them... why networking isn't transactional when done right... and the surprising reason isolation becomes more dangerous as careers progress. Mary Angela shares real examples from her work with AARP, the International Leadership Association, and her experience helping leaders navigate major career transitions. Mike and Mary Angela also discuss why the most successful leaders diversify their networks beyond their industries... the one weekly habit that keeps relationships alive... and how taking small actions beats endless planning every time. Whether you're leading a team today or preparing for what comes next, this episode delivers practical strategies to ensure your network grows stronger—not weaker—as your career evolves. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/231