Episode 10: Michele Rigby Assad: Breaking Cover, Getting Off the X & Starting Over
Former CIA intelligence officer Michele Rigby Assad returns to FEDChicks for Part 2 of our conversation about life inside—and after—the CIA. This time, Michele takes us behind the story of her books Breaking Cover and Get Off the X, including the extraordinary post-CIA operation that helped nearly 150 displaced Iraqi Christians escape to a new life in Europe.
But this episode is also about what happens when the career ends. Michele talks candidly about leaving the CIA, starting over when she couldn’t put most of her experience on a résumé, separating identity from a federal career, finding purpose after government service, and learning to move forward even when you don’t feel ready.
For anyone approaching retirement, considering a career change, or wondering what comes after the badge, Michele’s message is simple: you don’t need the perfect next move—you just need a move that takes you forward.
IN THIS EPISODE
• Why Michele and her husband knew it was time to leave the CIA
• Writing Breaking Cover and getting a CIA memoir through pre-publication review
• The remarkable operation that helped nearly 150 Iraqi Christians relocate to Europe
• What “Get Off the X” means in the CIA—and why Michele applies it to everyday life
• Leaving government when your résumé can’t explain what you actually did
• Why Type-A perfectionists can get stuck waiting for the “perfect” next move
• Practical advice for preparing for retirement or a major career change
• Why your identity can’t be entirely wrapped up in your career
• Faith, courage and saying yes before you feel ready
• Finding purpose and service after federal employment
• What Michele would tell herself on her first day at the CIA
Learn more about Michele, her books, speaking and leadership coaching: MicheleRigbyAssad.com
If you missed Part 1 of our conversation with Michele, start with Episode 9:
CIA Officer Michele Rigby Assad: Undercover, Underestimated & Unafraid
WATCH, LISTEN & FOLLOW FEDCHICKS
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fedchicks
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fedchicks/id1896920829
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033xmMo1DDcIFczh0zq4S6
Instagram: @fedchicks
Facebook: FEDChicks
Email: FEDChicks@gmail.com
Please like, subscribe, share and leave us a review. It helps more women in federal law enforcement—and those preparing for life after it—find FEDChicks.
Three retired federal agents. Three voices. Zero agency talking points.
DISCLAIMER
FEDChicks is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed are our own and do not represent any agency or the federal government. Nothing shared should be considered financial, legal, career or retirement advice. Consult qualified professionals regarding your individual circumstances.
#FEDChicks #MicheleRigbyAssad #CIA #GetOffTheX #BreakingCover #FederalLawEnforcement #FederalEmployees #FederalRetirement #LifeAfterTheBadge #CareerChange #WomenInLawEnforcement
