UK Investment Banker Turns Layoff Into Career Change Opportunity

When Kevin Watson was laid off from his high-powered job as an investment banker in 2003, the father of three decided to pursue something a bit closer to his heart: teaching.

“It’s a completely different atmosphere teaching in a school. I feel like I’m giving something back, I making a difference to the lives of others. That’s not to say teaching is less stressful than banking – just completely different. In my other job the focus was constantly on making money or lose your position. But as a teacher it’s about striving to help students realise their potential. It’s not for everyone, but it’s very rewarding.”

Click here to read the full article, and tune in on Friday to read about a public school teacher who telecommutes.

Al Yankovic Shifts Gears, Writes Children's Book About Careers

Speaking of career changes, "Weird" Al Yankovic seems to be taking a professional detour of his own. The famous musical satirist and comedic lyricist released a children's book last month called "When I Grow Up." The book offers a whimsical take on career choices from the point of view of an eight-year-old boy.

Although Yankovic knew at the age of eight that he wanted to write comedy, his guidance counselor talked him into studying architecture instead. He never really took to it, but he found his muse while working in his college radio station as a disk jockey. "The message that I'm trying to get across to kids," he said on NPR's Fresh Air, "is that there is in fact a universe of possibilities out there."

Click here for the full interview, or click here to read an exclusive Amazon.com Q and A with Yankovic or to buy the book.