The Updraft Effect
Rise Above Career Obstacles
Let's Rebuild What the Storm Tried to Break
Discover how Earth’s wisdom can guide your next bold move—in work, life, and leadership.
The Updraft Effect by geoscientist-turned-strategist Dawn James offers a bold and original perspective on personal transformation, career clarity, and rising above systemic barriers—all told through the lens of Earth science and natural systems.
Ready to Rise?
If you've ever felt invisible in the workplace, overwhelmed by career disruption, or uncertain how to navigate workplace bias—The Updraft Effect is your blueprint for transformation.
Dawn James, Author of The Updraft Effect
A Science-Inspired Approach to Career Resilience
Unlike traditional career books, The Updraft Effect blends storytelling, science, and career insight. Dawn uses powerful metaphors like soul erosion, tectonic pressure, and stream morphology to help you navigate disruption with integrity, resilience, and purpose.
You’ll learn how to:
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Cultivate your luck and present your best self
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Hold your power in toxic situations
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Flow through change with clarity and strength
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Write your own permission slip for success
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Transform breakdowns into breakthroughs
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Rise above systemic barriers while maintaining your values
Praise for The Updraft Effect
Shalaya Morissette
Vice President
Walker-Miller Energy Services
"A vital resource for those committed to personal and career growth, especially in the face of systemic and societal challenges."
Uwa Airhiavbere
Chief Commercial Officer
Microsoft Worldwide Energy & Resources
"Rich advice that inspires us to uphold our values and reaffirms our inner confidence. A truly engaging read."
Jen Daloisio
Senior Vice President
FirstLight Power
"Dawn James is a trailblazer… She combines data-driven strategies with deeply personal stories that redefine what’s possible in your career."
About Dawn James
Dawn is a geoscientist-turned-Fortune 500 strategist who rose from fieldwork to executive leadership at Microsoft and Deloitte. Her book uses Earth systems to teach bold career resilience. She's advised global CEOs and mentored emerging leaders across industries.
For Those Who Know There’s More Ahead
The Updraft Effect is for anyone ready to break cycles, rewrite the rules, and rise with purpose. You’ll especially connect with this book if you’re:
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Young professionals and career pivoters seeking clarity and direction
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Women and BIPOC leaders navigating workplace bias
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Recently unemployed professionals managing career disruption
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Anyone feeling overwhelmed by uncertainty and workplace trauma
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Leaders building inclusive, values-driven cultures
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Readers of personal growth, leadership, and career transformation
Your Breakthrough Starts Here
The Updraft Effect is available now on Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats. Transform your career disruption into your greatest breakthrough—starting today.