Listen to “#843 Slingshot Your Career: How to Propel Forward by Pulling Back” on Spreaker.
On this episode of The Small Business Radio Show…
One of the things I am most proud of is the way in business I have had to reinvent my self over the past 45 years of my career. I think this is a skill that serves entrepreneurs well.
Carmen Van Kerckhove is an author and keynote speaker whose work explores how technology, social class, and cultural change are reshaping the way we live and work. Her upcoming book, “The Slingshot Effect”, makes the case that pulling back—professionally, financially, creatively—isn’t failure, but often the smartest way to move forward. Carmen’s career is built on bold reinvention and small business roots.
After starting at Goldman Sachs, she took a surprising step back—becoming an office manager—to create space for her first major pivot into writing. Her blog on race and pop culture, Racialicious, gained national attention and made her a sought-after speaker. From there, she co-founded a karate school in Brooklyn, then launched a family travel brand that grew into a multiple six-figure content business with over a million followers and major brand partnerships.
Here is what we discussed:
- Why pulling back can be the smartest move in business
Most entrepreneurs fear slowing down—but strategic retreats often lead to clearer direction, stronger positioning, and more sustainable growth.
- The difference between burnout and a slingshot moment
How to recognize when you’re not just tired—but being called to realign to what matters
- Wall Street to martial arts to social media—how small business built my career
Lessons from co-founding a karate school, running a family content brand, and reinventing my path multiple times.
- How to reinvent your business without burning it all down
Tactical ways small business owners can shift focus, pivot offerings, or redesign workflows
- Why the future of work will favor the self-aware
Emotional intelligence, agility, and clarity—not hustle—are becoming the most valuable business skills in today’s evolving economy.
