Let’s Talk About It: The Communication Podcast with Dr. Sherry Stancil

Rebrand or Refine? When "communication" shifts, should you?

Dr. Sherry Stancil

Listen… let’s be real. When the new guy arrives on the block—loud, flashy, talking about the latest trends—it’s tempting to think, "Maybe I should switch things up too." But here’s the truth: constantly rebranding yourself, chasing every industry shift, and running after trends? That’s not a strategy—that’s a treadmill.

In this episode, we debunk the myth that every shiny new trend isn’t meant for you. Just because it’s trending doesn’t mean it’s your lane! Let’s talk about when to pivot, when to polish, and why mastering your niche is better than constantly chasing the next big thing. 

 

Welcome to Let’s Talk About It—the podcast that shines a light on the art of interpersonal communication. From handling tough conversations to building stronger connections, we’re here to explore the skills that help you thrive in work, relationships, and beyond. So, grab your coffee, get comfortable, and let’s talk about it!

Today, I want to take you back to something I saw a while ago—a small moment, but one that got me thinking.

So, I was in a coffee shop here in Huntsville, just trying to get some work done. You know the vibe—laptop open, earbuds in, pretending I don’t hear the conversations happening around me. But then, I catch this one conversation that I can’t ignore.

A guy is talking—loudly—about how he’s reworking his résumé again. He’s jumping industries, rebranding himself, trying to keep up with what’s “in demand” right now. He’s adding skills he doesn’t really use, changing job titles to sound more “trendy,” and shifting his focus entirely because, as he puts it, "That’s where the money is right now."

And look—I get it. We all want to stay relevant. But as I listened, I couldn’t help but think: How exhausting must it be to constantly start over? To always be chasing the next big thing, instead of building something solid where you already excel?

It reminded me of something I’ve seen over and over—people running themselves ragged, pivoting at every industry shift, chasing imaginary competition instead of doubling down on what they’re actually great at.

Here’s the thing: When you’re always changing lanes, you never actually get anywhere.

Think about the people you trust in your field—the ones consistently getting opportunities. Are they the ones reinventing themselves every six months? Or are they the ones who stuck with what they do best and became known for it?

We live in a world that pressures us to be “multi-hyphenates,” to add every trending skill to our LinkedIn profiles. But real success doesn’t come from doing everything—it comes from mastering something.

Because chasing every trend won’t build a career—mastering a niche will.

If you want long-term success, stop running in circles. Instead, find your niche, refine it, and own your space.

Your career shouldn’t feel like a treadmill—always running, never arriving.

So, before you update that résumé for the fifth time this year, ask yourself

Am I making this change because it’s truly what I want?

Or am I just afraid of being left behind?

Because real success doesn’t come from keeping up—it comes from standing out.

That’s it for today’s episode of Let’s Talk About It. Stay focused, own your niche, and remember—depth will always outlast trends.