Hardwired For Growth

Ashley Evenson returns for her third appearance on The Corporate Escapee Podcast — and this time it's a real update from the field. Two years into her escape, she breaks down what actually helped her land fractional work, what surprised her, and the biggest mistake most new escapees make once they get busy.This is a practical conversation about network-first business development, creating momentum without feeling “salesy,” and why the long game matters more than the perfect plan.What you'll learn • How Ashley landed her first fractional roles through her existing network • Why “pick your brain” beats cold outreach for most escapees • The content → connection flywheel: using LinkedIn engagement to reopen relationships • What fractional work can feel like behind the scenes (and why it can get lonely) • How Ashley uses frameworks + a single grounding slide to lead discovery conversations • Why you must keep “breadcrumbing” even when client work gets busy • The reality of income volatility — and how to reduce the “oh crap” moments • Portfolio career thinking: experimenting with speaking, books, and new revenue streams • A fun (and honest) AI/TikTok viral experiment — and what it taught her about unit economics • The mindset truth: escaping requires hustle — but it's a better “hard” than corporateKey quotes • “You're in here for the long game.” • “People are sick of being sold to on LinkedIn.” • “Always be top of mind… keep breadcrumbing.” • “Both paths are hard. Choose which hard you want.”Resources & mentions • Connect with Ashley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyevenson/ • Ashley's site: AE Marketing Collective: aemarketingcollective.com • AI slide tool mentioned: Gamma (export to Google Slides / PowerPoint)If this episode hit home…If you're still in corporate and thinking about an exit strategy: • Start with one conversation this week. • Don't pitch. Ask for perspective. • Keep one weekly “breadcrumb” habit so you don't disappear when you get busy.About the guestAshley is a fractional marketing leader with experience across agency, brand, and consul

Corporate gives you an easy identity: your title, your company, your lane. But once you start building something outside corporate—consulting, fractional, content, a book, a business—that identity disappears fast. And that's where most people get stuck.In this episode, Brett sits down with Catherine Jelinek, founder of The Skinny Platform, to talk about the shift from being “defined by your role” to being known for your thinking, your story, and the outcomes you create.Catherine shares why so many high-performing corporate pros struggle in the “formless” world outside corporate, how to create structure without recreating corporate, and why the fastest way to clarify your thought leadership is often talking it out—not trying to write it alone. They also get into “skinny books” (short, high-impact nonfiction) and how to use AI and conversation-based drafts to accelerate publishing and content creation.What You'll Learn • Why corporate identity feels safe—even when corporate is miserable • How to replace “job title identity” with outcome-based positioning • Catherine's framework for navigating change: Forming → Storming → Norming → Performing • How Brett created structure outside corporate (without turning life into a calendar prison) • Why most people can't “see” their own differentiators—and how a mirror helps • Why conversation + transcripts can be the fastest path to content (and even a book) • The “skinny book” approach: short, readable, practical nonfiction that people actually finish • How to use AI to generate multiple story arcs and content angles—without losing your voiceKey Takeaways • You don't need to reinvent yourself. You need to reframe yourself. • Progress outside corporate isn't linear—so you need your own way to measure wins. • If you want thought leadership, stop trying to “perfect-write” it. Talk it out first. • Your story isn't just for a book. It can power your LinkedIn, website, offers, and messaging.About Catherine JelinekCatherine is the founder of The Skinny Platform, an alternative to ghostwriting for entrepreneurs and thought leaders. The Skinny Platform helps people clarify their story, shape it into a compelling narrative, and turn it into a short, high-impact book—faster than the traditional publishing process.Connect with Catherine • https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjelinek/ • Email: catherine@theskinnyplatform.com • Websites: theskinnyplatform.com

Post Corporate Life with Brett Trainor & John ArmsI recently had the chance to join John Arms on his podcast: Fractional Unfiltered Link: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0z9pQOOMZEVI4T2NvoOiqP?si=uJoycF4LRGyZQNB4MofrtQJohn was kind enough to allow me to share this with my audience.Corporate has done a number on people. A bad one. For 30 minutes we bitch about what is and was, and then we spend 30 minutes on how to thrive in the post corporate world.This episode also includes real-time audience coaching around “job hugging,” starting from zero, and how to simplify your entry point so you can land your first client.What you'll hear in this episodeWhy corporate feels colder now (profits over people, layoffs as strategy)The “solo employee” mindset: treat your employer like your first customerWhy job searches after 45 can feel like PTSD — and how to reframe itHow Brett monetized his corporate experience in 10 different waysWhy chasing “big deals” first can slow you down (and what to do instead)The good / better / best ladder to get in the door with business ownersWhy community and relationships beat lone-wolf executionThe difference between being capable and being confident (and how corporate crushes confidence)The simplest success ingredients: take action, build relationships, stay curiousLive coaching: why “starting from zero” is hard — and how to find your “entry problem” so you can get tractionKey frameworks + concepts mentionedCorporate is a transaction (not a family): loyalty is gone, act accordinglyStart before you hit the breaking point: build an exit strategy while you still have incomeSmall wins stack: don't wait for the home runThe 3 revenue levers every business cares about:Problem-solving > selling: discovery conversations look a lot like job interviews“Done is better than perfect”: unlearn corporate perfectionismCommunity as leverage: don't do this aloneJob hugging: holding on until you're forced out — and why you still need a planMemorable lines / moments

Most people believe the ones who succeed after escaping corporate are the smartest, most experienced, or most credentialed.They're not.In this solo episode, Brett breaks down a pattern he's seen across hundreds—if not thousands—of conversations with corporate escapees: success outside corporate has far less to do with talent and far more to do with action.This episode is for anyone still in corporate, recently laid off, or quietly wondering if there's another path—but feeling stuck, underqualified, or unsure where to start.What You'll Learn in This Episode • Why the most talented corporate professionals often struggle after leaving • The real traits shared by people who successfully escape—and stay out • Why overthinking your offer is one of the biggest mistakes escapees make • How job interviews and client conversations are essentially the same thing • Why “sales” after corporate is really just problem-solving • How small wins (not big plans) create momentum • Why redefining success becomes inevitable once you regain control of your time • How to safely test a solo path while still in corporate—or during a job searchKey Takeaways • You don't need more experience to get started—you need movement • Confidence comes after action, not before • Business owners care about outcomes, not job titles • Your network is your greatest advantage if you're willing to use it • The biggest risk isn't trying—it's never testing what's possibleIf You're Still in Corporate (or Recently Laid Off)You're not behind.You're not underqualified.And you already have skills people will pay for.The fastest way forward isn't a perfect plan—it's one conversation.Join the Escapee CollectiveIf you're tired of figuring this out alone, the Escapee Collective is a community for corporate castaways and escapees at every stage—still in corporate, newly out, or building momentum.Peer groups. Live sessions. Real conversations. Real progress.You can find the link in the show notes or visit TheEscapeeCollective.com to learn more.

Michelle Warner took the “escapee avoidance” route — she planned to do the traditional MBA-to-consulting path… then graduated straight into the Great Recession (the day Lehman fell). That curveball pushed her into entrepreneurship early: a founder-for-hire role turning a multi-billion-dollar foundation asset into a business, followed by a mission-driven tech startup, and eventually her current work helping small business owners design the next iteration of their business.This is a tactical episode about what actually works when you're leaving corporate: why you should “throw spaghetti at the wall” early, how to stop doing random coffee chats, and how to use relationship marketing and audience borrowing to land clients faster — without turning into a sales robot.What you'll learn • Why “sequence over strategy” matters more than the perfect plan • The hidden risk of being too strict and narrow early on (and why it creates regret later) • How Michelle built her business through relationship marketing, not content churn • “Audience borrowing” as the fastest way to build trust and pipeline • How to approach connector conversations vs. client conversations • Why your early goal is simple: learn how to make money and stack wins • A practical way to think about packaging: repeatable frameworks, flexible middleKey moments / highlights • Graduating into chaos: the day Lehman fell and what it changed • Founder-for-hire: getting a salary while living the startup founder life • Affordable internet in inner cities — and what customers actually did with it • “Fractional CEO” before fractional was trendy • The rule: don't build with blinders on for too long • The shift from “networking for jobs” to networking as a long-term business asset • The line that matters: say something that people can't “unsee” after the callMichelle's core concepts (worth stealing) • Sequence over strategy: the order of moves beats the elegance of the plan • Throw spaghetti first: test offers, clients, and problems before you commit • Connection avatar: define who's worth meeting so networking doesn't waste your life • Trust transfer: get introduced through people/places your audience already trusts • Audience borrowing: build relationships with people who “own the room” your clients are inBest quote energy • “Learn all the rules so you can go break them.” • “It's more important the order you do things than how good you are at it.” • “I'm totally unemployable.” (Escapee anthem)Connect with Michelle • Website: themichellewarner.com • Podcast: Sequence Over Strategy (short, practical episodes; curated playlists on her site)Connect with Brett / The Escapee ecosystem • If corporate is broken and you're looking at an exit strategy, this is your sign. • Join the community: TheEscapeeCollective.com

If you've been thinking about leaving corporate but the risk feels too big, this episode gives you a smarter way to look at it.Brett sits down with Alex Smereczniak, a former EY consultant who left corporate early, built a high-growth business in the laundry space, and later launched Franzy—a platform designed to make franchising easier to research and navigate.This conversation covers the mindset shift that helps people stop overestimating the risk of leaving, plus why franchising can be an underrated “business with guardrails” path for escapees who want ownership without building from scratch.What we cover • Alex's escape story: college entrepreneurship → EY → leaving after a year and change • The moment that validated his decision: an EY partner's biggest career regret • Why fear is often self-created—and how to get past it • A practical worst-case scenario exercise to reset your risk tolerance • Why franchising is a business model, not an industry • Franzy's concept: “Zillow for buying and selling franchise businesses” • How AI + coaching can narrow thousands of franchise options into a realistic short list • Underrated franchise categories and trends (senior care, home services, turf, and more) • The “corporate is one customer” reframe—and why ownership builds equityKey timestamps (approx.) • 00:00–03:30 – Alex's corporate stint + why he left fast • 03:30–08:30 – The EY exit interview story: “It wasn't my ladder” • 08:30–12:30 – Why making money outside corporate is more possible than people think • 12:30–20:30 – The worst-case scenario exercise (the fear-killer) • 20:30–28:30 – Alex's journey building a scaled laundry business + why franchising clicked • 28:30–33:30 – What franchising actually is (and what most people misunderstand) • 33:30–40:30 – Franchise categories you probably haven't considered • 40:30–46:30 – Equity, control, and why “owning” beats “leasing” your careerBig takeaways • Most people overestimate the risk of leaving corporate. The real risk is staying dependent on one employer. • You don't need a perfect plan. You need small wins and momentum—then you adjust. • Franchising can be a fast path to ownership because you start with a proven playbook, support, and guardrails. • Ownership builds equity. A job pays you, but it doesn't typically create an asset you can sell.Who this episode is for • Corporate pros who want out but feel stuck because of risk, family, or finances • Escapees who want a “business with guardrails” instead of starting from scratch • Anyone curious about franchising beyond the usual fast-food stereotypesResources + links • Franzy https://franzy.com/ • Alex on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-smereczniak-40310329/

Tom Mirabella left corporate at 30 and never looked back. Seventeen years later, he's built Wingman into a 25-person business by doing what corporate rarely rewards: solving problems fast, betting on relationships, and staying obsessively close to customers.In this conversation, Tom breaks down his escape story, why “local + in-person” is making a comeback, and how Wingman's franchise model flips the typical franchise script — where the franchisee focuses on relationships and sales while the central team handles fulfillment and delivery.If you're stuck in corporate and can't see a path out, this episode gives you a practical look at what “building your own lane” can really look like — without pretending it's easy.Join the Escapee Collective: TheEscapeeCollective.com What You'll Learn• Why Tom left corporate early (and what corporate policies taught him about ceilings)• The side-hustle-to-business path: how one small project turned into real clients• How to think about risk when leaving: your monthly “number” vs. replacing a salary• Why entrepreneurship can swing from best day to worst day in 30 minutes — and how to handle it• The “digital mayor” concept: becoming the trusted local hub in your town• Why Tom believes physical locations + community presence still win in a digital world• A modern franchise approach: franchisee sells + builds relationships, HQ team delivers• Why customer service and trust are the real differentiators in crowded marketsKey Quotes• “The problem's now. Two weeks from now, it's worse.”• “As an entrepreneur, you can have the best and worst day within a half hour.”• “I want you to be the digital mayor of your town.”• “If you do what you love, the money follows.”Mentioned in This Episode• COBRA and how Tom thought about early-stage risk• Networking groups, chambers, community events, and “planting seeds”• Using a podcast as a lead generator (and why it worked)Connect with Tom• Email: Tom at wingmanplanning.com• Website: WingmanPlanning.com• Social: Instagram / Facebook / TikTok / LinkedIn (search “Wingman Planning”)

What if scaling your business didn't require hiring, hustling harder, or stacking endless clients?In this episode, Brett sits down with Pia Silva (No BS Mastery) to break down a simple model for building a highly profitable solo (or two-person) business — built around intensives, clear boundaries, and pricing for outcomes (not hours).Pia shares how she and her husband went from $40K in debt to $500K in revenue by shifting from long, drawn-out projects to a focused, high-value intensive model. Then she explains her signature framework — the 50-25-25 Rule — and how to reverse-engineer your pricing based on the life you actually want.If you're a corporate escapee (or future one) trying to make real money without recreating the corporate grind… this is the blueprint.Join the Escapee Collective!What you'll learn • Why most “big ticket” projects are often the least profitable • Pia's 50-25-25 Rule for profit + freedom (and how to use it to price your offers) • How to design offers so you make your monthly revenue in 50% of your client hours • The two levers to grow profit without working more: • Increase value (real + perceived) • Decrease time (intensify delivery) • A smarter version of “good / better / best” packaging (without selling deliverables) • How to use a Lead Product (paid) instead of free proposals to build trust fast • Why warm networks beat websites and content in the early stages • How to build boundaries that prevent scope creep (without sounding rigid) • The mindset shift escapees must make: sell outcomes, not timeKey frameworks + concepts mentioned • The Intensives Model: Focused delivery in a compressed timeframe vs. dragging projects out for months • 50-25-25 Rule: Make your total revenue in 50% (or less) of your client-working hours so you have time for life • Lead Product Method: A paid diagnostic/strategy step that replaces proposals and tees up an easy upsell • Boundaries via Process: Clear steps + expectations reduce pushback and scope creepResources from Pia • Scale Solo Playbook: NoBSMastery.com/playbook • Price to Freedom CalculatorConnect with Pia • Instagram: @pialovesyourbiz • LinkedIn: Pia Silva

Why do so many people leave corporate… only to end up going back?In this solo episode, Brett breaks down the two core reasons most corporate escapees fail—and more importantly, how to avoid them.Failure here doesn't mean experimenting and choosing corporate again. It means wanting out, trying to go solo, and giving up before momentum ever takes hold.If you're thinking about leaving corporate—or you've already made the leap—this episode will help you understand what really trips people up and how to build a path that actually sticks.Resources Mentioned The Escapee Collective – A milestone-based community designed to help corporate escapees get out and stay out: Link: https://escapee-collective.circle.so/checkout/the-escapee-collective What You'll Learn in This Episode • Why not getting an early win is the fastest way to lose confidence • How long gaps without income create doubt, panic, and backtracking • Why most escapees don't lack skills—they lack momentum • The hidden cost of isolation and loneliness when you go solo • Why “doing it alone” dramatically increases emotional swings • How peer support and feedback shorten the learning curve • Why community works better when people are at similar stages • The difference between education, theory, and applied learning • What successful long-term escapees all have in commonKey TakeawayGoing solo doesn't fail because you're not smart enough or experienced enough.It fails when: • You don't get a win early • You try to figure everything out aloneMomentum and connection matter more than perfection.Resources Mentioned The Escapee Collective – A milestone-based community designed to help corporate escapees get out and stay out: Link: https://escapee-collective.circle.so/checkout/the-escapee-collective You can also reach out directly to Brett on LinkedIn with questions about the community or your escape path.

What if podcasting wasn't just content—but a bridge out of corporate?In this episode, Brett sits down with Mark Hayward, former PwC and KPMG consultant turned podcast host and podcast guesting entrepreneur, to break down his escape from corporate—and how podcasting quietly became one of his most powerful tools.Mark shares how he started a podcast while still in corporate, not to make money, but to build confidence, find his voice, and explore what life outside the corporate box could look like. That passion project eventually opened doors to consulting, coaching, real estate experimentation—and ultimately a business built around helping others grow through podcast guesting.This is a real, honest conversation about experimentation, false starts, energy, and why podcasting works differently than most people expect.What We Cover • Leaving PwC and KPMG after a 14-year corporate career • Why Mark started a podcast before leaving corporate • The role experimentation plays in finding your escape path • Why not every revenue stream is worth keeping • Coaching vs. consulting vs. creative work (and the energy test) • Podcast hosting vs. podcast guesting — and how each actually works • Why guests often get more business than hosts • How podcasting builds confidence, clarity, and opportunity • Practical advice for corporate professionals who know they want out—but don't know what's nextKey TakeawayYou don't need a perfect plan to escape corporate. You need momentum, experimentation, and a way to get into conversations that open doors. Podcasting can be one of those doors.Connect with Mark • Website: podcastintroduction.com • Podcast: Business Growth Talks • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-hayward-163721a0/ Listen, subscribe, and shareIf corporate feels off—but you can't see the exit yet—this episode will help you think differently about your options.

If you know corporate isn't for you but you can't see a clean exit, this episode is your roadmap. Brett sits down with Sam Lee (Indie Collective) to break down how experienced professionals can build a “portfolio career” — consulting, coaching, fractional work, and productized services — without quitting their full-time job first. Sam shares the simple frameworks that helped him build $1M+ in annual revenue through independent work for over a decade, and he explains why most people get stuck trading time for money. You'll walk away with a practical way to tell your story, activate your network, and design an exit strategy with less risk.In this episode, you'll learn: • Why the “side hustle first” approach builds confidence and reduces risk • The simple sales story that unlocks referrals: Client → Problem → Outcome • How to activate your network without sounding awkward or salesy • Why “fractional” isn't always the fastest path to revenue — and what is • The real goal: stop trading time for money and start selling outcomes • Sam's 3-part productization path: 1. Niche down to best-fit clients 2. Solve painkiller problems (not vitamins) 3. Build a portfolio of offers, including productized work • The two killers of the independent path: no early wins + isolation • Why productizing your expertise helps both client work and job searchesKey quotes / soundbites: • “The most pernicious trade independent builders make is trading time for money.” • “Your sales story is three things: who you serve, their problem, and the outcome.” • “Nobody is hiring a generalist right now. They want been-there-done-that experts.” • “Trial and error at this stage of your career is expensive.”Resources mentioned: • Indie Collective: IndieCollective.co

Get the New Escapee Starter Kit HereIf you know corporate is broken—but you're not ready to quit—this episode is for you.In this year-end solo episode, Brett walks through 7 practical steps to help you rethink your relationship with work, assess how happy you actually are, and explore whether there's a path outside corporate—without making a risky leap.This isn't about quitting your job.It's about getting prepared, taking back control, and testing what's possible using the experience you already have.Whether you're 25 or 65, this episode helps you stop being reactionary and start designing what comes next.What You'll LearnWhy most people stay stuck—even when they're miserableHow to reframe yourself from “employee” to “business owner”The 5-factor scorecard to measure your real happinessWhy you're already a solopreneur with one bad clientHow to inventory your skills without thinking in job titlesA simple way to calculate your real market valueHow to design a future that integrates work into your life—not the other way aroundThe 7 Steps Covered in This EpisodeReframe Your Reality – You don't need new skills or a new degreeEstablish Your Happiness Baseline – Money isn't the whole storySee Yourself as a Solopreneur – You already have one client (corporate)Define What You Really Want and Need – Financially, personally, realisticallyTake Inventory of Your Skills and Energy – Focus on problems you like solvingCalculate Your Value – A simple formula to find your hourly baselineDesign Your Ideal Future – Work backward from the life you wantKey TakeawaysIt's easier to find your first customer than your next jobSmall wins build confidence faster than big, risky betsYou don't need permission to start testing a new pathDone is better than perfectControl comes from action, not planningFinal ThoughtYou don't have to leave corporate to take back control.But if you don't start preparing, another year will pass—and you'll be having the same conversation...

This episode is a live mini-workshop recorded with members of the Escapee Collective (and released here because it was too useful to keep inside the community).My guest Diane Kennedy (CPA) breaks down what most new escapees get wrong about taxes and business structure — and why the real first question isn't “LLC or S-Corp?”It's: Are you building a business… or replacing a paycheck?From there, we get into the most common setup for solopreneurs (LLC + S-Corp election), how to think about deductions without getting cute, and why “keeping it small and keeping it all” is the solopreneur cheat code.We also bring in Lisa Dini from Lettuce, who explains how they help solos run the S-Corp model without turning you into an accountant.Heads up: This is educational, not legal/tax advice. Talk to your pro for your situation.What you'll learnThe real first question for escapees: build a business vs replace a paycheckWhy “LLC vs S-Corp” is usually the wrong framing (and what Diane recommends instead)Why Diane believes you should set up an LLC early (asset protection + flexibility)The 3 “buckets” of income for solopreneurs: Earned, Leveraged, & Passive (the holy grail)A simple way to think about deductions: ordinary + necessary (and how to find write-offs you already have)How S-Corps can help you keep more of what you earn (salary vs distributions, plus other benefits discussed)Real-world Q&A on: partners, joint ventures, and multi-state setups, California “special rules” , Schedule C vs S-Corp timing, Solo 401(k) and related retirement ideasResources Mentioned:Lettuce.co: https://hubs.ly/Q03Yz8KX0Tax Calc: https://hubs.ly/Q03Yz8Rf0Tax Prep: https://hubs.ly/Q03Yz8JY0GuestsDiane KennedyCPA and long-time solopreneur. Diane helps business owners structure their business and income in smarter ways so they can keep more of what they earn and operate like a real business.Lisa Dini (Lettuce)Lettuce helps solopreneurs run an S-Corp model efficiently, without drowning in admin and accounting work.

If you know corporate is broken but jumping straight into solopreneur life feels like too big a leap, this episode is for you.Brett breaks down how to treat your “escape plan” like an insurance policy—not a dramatic leap off a cliff. You don't have to quit your job tomorrow. But you do owe it to yourself to be prepared for the moment corporate quits on you… or you finally hit your breaking point.Instead of trying to convince you to go all-in on a solo business, this episode walks you through how to build a plan you can keep in your back pocket—so you're not starting from zero if things go sideways.Download the FREE Starter KitJoin the CollectiveIn this episode, you'll learn:Why the gap is so big between people who know corporate is broken and those who actually take actionHow to think like a “prepper” (without going full doomsday): planning so you don't have to plan in the middle of chaosStep 1 – Define what you actually wantStep 2 – Get clear on your financial realityStep 3 – Take inventory of your skills and energyStep 4 – Shift from job title to problem-solvingStep 5 – Reframe your current employer as just one clientAlso: • A simple formula to value your time • Annual salary × 1.25, then drop three zeros → a shockingly accurate baseline hourly rate •. Why many escapees replace their corporate income in ~20–25 hours per week • Why you don't need 100 customers • How 2–5 good clients can replace (or exceed) your corporate pay • Why most of those opportunities will come from networking and referrals, not job boardsWho this episode is forYou're still in corporate, you know the system isn't built for you, but you don't see a clear path outYou feel stuck between “I hate this” and “I don't know what else I'd do”You're curious about going solo, but the idea of just quitting and “figuring it out” feels recklessYou want a practical, low-risk way to prepare now, so you're not scrambling later

If you've ever walked out of a meeting thinking, “Why didn't that land?”Or if you've ever felt invisible in corporate…Or if you're building a life outside of corporate and wondering why some conversations connect and others fall flat…This episode will hit you hard.Today, Brett welcomes back Jake Stahl — author of the brand-new book Own the Room and creator of the STRATA framework, a system for reading people, decoding signals, and communicating with true presence instead of performance.Twelve years ago, Jake lost everything to opioid addiction — his marriage, his home, his reputation, and the identity he'd spent decades building. But his path back didn't begin with a new job or a second chance.It began with learning how to read people.Jake realized that most communication has nothing to do with the words being spoken. It's the signals beneath them — the micro-expressions, the posture shifts, the emotional triggers — that determine whether someone trusts you, connects with you, or shuts down entirely.Today, Jake breaks down STRATA, the six-part framework you can use to own every room you enter: • Signal: What you broadcast before you say a word • Trigger: The moment resistance appears • Reframe: How you shift someone's lens without force • Anchor: Making the insight stick • Transfer: Turning your idea into their idea • Action: Where the next step becomes inevitableWe talk about how STRATA applies to sales, relationships, leadership, marriage, friendships — and most importantly, the escapee journey. Because leaving corporate and building your own path requires one core skill:

What happens when corporate stress gets so bad you literally can't swallow solid food?That's where Claire Sullivan found herself.On December 1st, 2023, corporate quit on her — and she took what most people would call the riskiest step possible:She built a business… the same day.Filed an LLCRegistered everything needed to operatePosted on LinkedIn that she was going out on her ownListened to what the market actually wantedAnd replaced her former salary by the end of the weekIs that typical? No.Is it possible? Absolutely.And more importantly — the steps she took are repeatable for anyone stuck in a corporate job that no longer works for them.This is one of the most real and honest conversations we've had on what it actually looks like to escape corporate — emotionally, financially, mentally, and practically.Who This Episode Is ForThis one is for you if:Corporate has stopped making senseEvery job application feels like it goes into a black holeYou're burned out but can't “just quit”You want control over your time, income, and healthYou don't think you have “enough” experience to go out on your ownYou just need one real example of someone who actually did itConnect with ClaireMaven Course: How to Layoff-Proof Your Career by Becoming a Solopreneur: https://maven.com/clair-sullivan-associates/launch-your-solopreneur-business?promoCode=ESCAPELinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-clair-sullivan/

Most solo businesses are focused on getting clients—but ignore the compliance risks that can quietly wreck everything.Former tax attorney and CFO Michael Williams joins Brett to break down the ADA, privacy, and regulatory issues small businesses face—and how a $100K GDPR mistake pushed him to finally build Clym.io, an all-in-one website compliance platform.Michael also shares the remarkable story of raising a seven-figure VC round… then paying it back to regain control and stay true to his vision.In This Episode:• The hidden ADA & privacy risks solopreneurs overlook• Why most accessibility lawsuits hit small businesses• How AI-powered scans fuel compliance lawsuits• How Clym.io uses one snippet to manage 150+ regulations• Why Michael left a cushy CFO role at 38• The identity shift from employee → builder• What it's really like to take VC money—then give it back• Why taking action beats waiting for the “right” timeConnect with Michael & ClymWebsite: https://clym.ioMore From BrettEscapee Starter Kit, resources & links → https://linktr.ee/bretttrainor

This episode is a little different. I was a guest on Catherine Jelinek's podcast, Breaking Through the Noise — and she generously allowed me to share the full conversation with you.We talk about leaving corporate, taking action, finding traction on TikTok, and the honest story behind building the Corporate Escapee movement. If you're stuck, burned out, or thinking about going solo, this one will hit home.In this episode, we cover:Why taking action is the #1 skill corporate trains out of youMy path from 25 years in corporate → consulting → fractional → building 10+ income streamsHow TikTok unexpectedly became the platform that changed everythingWhy 80% of my 76K TikTok followers are over 40The moment one video brought in 300+ strategy call requests in 48 hoursThe three stages of an escapee: Curious, Motivated, and LiberatedWhy your path out of corporate isn't a leap — it's a shiftThe reality of layoffs, RTO mandates, and the “profits over people” eraWhy authenticity beats production quality every timeThe mindset shift corporate doesn't prepare you forWhy this conversation mattersA lot of people want out of corporate, but they overthink the first step. This episode breaks down what actually works — and why you already have more than enough experience to start.Connect With CatherineCheck out Catherine Jelinek's podcast:

Today I'm joined by Neil K. Carroll, founder of vidwheel, who took the long way out of corporate: video agency → higher-ed job → rebuilding as a lean solo business.Neil shares how a simple testimonial project for a startup turned into something much bigger—a repeatable, productized service that helps founders uncover the stories and insights hidden inside their customer relationships.If you're stuck in corporate and wondering what you would even sell, this episode will help you see the path: start with what you already know, listen for the real problem, and bet on yourself.What You'll LearnNeil's escape path: agency burnout → COVID pivots → higher-ed → soloThe “Root Thread” deep testimonial approach and why it delivers strategic customer insightHow to productize what you already do without boxing yourself inWhy referrals and local networks are enough for a one-person businessHow Neil priced his offer and why undercharging early is part of the processThe 4 levers every offer should hit: save time, save money, make money, reduce riskWhy betting on yourself beats betting on corporate stabilityKey TakeawaysYour corporate title doesn't matter—your ability to solve problems doesProductized services make selling and delivery easierCustomer conversations reveal the real value you offerSolopreneurs don't need 100 clients—you need a few right-fit onesYou can always go back to corporate… but very few people want to once they leaveAbout Neil K. CarrollNeil is the founder of vidwheel, helping startups and small businesses capture deep customer stories through Root Thread testimonial interviews and his hardware-enabled Mini Studio (VidKit 3).He combines interviewing skill, remote production, and AI-assisted analysis to help companies extract messaging, proof, and product insight directly from their customers.Connect with Neil:LinkedIn: Neil K. CarrollWebsite: vidwheel.com

Download the FREE Escapee Starter KitEpisode SummaryAfter nearly 30 years in corporate communications, Ed Patterson didn't just leave corporate—he left the country. He and his partner planned their move to Portugal, secured residency, and designed a new life where work no longer sits at the center. We cover what it really takes to prepare (financial, legal, lifestyle), what he'd do sooner, how he reframed success to “quality of my day,” and practical advice for anyone considering a similar shift—whether you move abroad or simply want more control at home.Chapter markers • 00:00 Intro: Why Ed left corporate and the U.S. • 00:45 Ed's background: PR/Comms, crisis, agency + in-house • 03:00 The Portugal plan: residency, D7 visa, timelines, consultants • 05:35 How they prepared: roles, finances, finish lines, advisor sign-off • 10:50 Healthcare and costs: private insurance, day-to-day expenses • 14:40 Redefining happiness: “quality of my day,” health, sleep, energy • 20:13 Advice to 30- and 40-somethings: plan for when you want to—and when you have to • 26:14 Do an inventory: skills, network, gaps, use corporate to upskill • 30:11 Action over waiting: fractional, contracts, bridge income • 33:06 The “adventure years” mindset and inviting questions • 35:23 CloseKey takeawaysPlan with intent: set a finish line, pressure-test with a financial advisor, and define roles at home.Consider geo-arbitrage: lower costs can pull your finish line forward by years.Optimize your day: sleep, movement, and mental space beat title-chasing.Treat corporate like your one client: extract skills, network, and education while you're there.Build optionality: fractional work and short contracts can bridge income during transitions.Do the inventory: skills, network, marketable experiences, and gaps to close before you jump.Prepare for both scenarios: when you choose to leave—and if corporate chooses for you.Health matters: design a life you can actually enjoy.GuestEd Patterson:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edpatterson1/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twoguysinportugal Callout quotes“We hit our finish line sooner because our costs dropped by a third to a half.”“I sleep better, eat better, and feel more creative. That was impossible when work ran my day.”“Plan for your choice—and for the day you may not have one.”

Guest: Bob Burg, co-author of The Go-GiverNote from Brett:This Greatest Hits episode is one of the most shared conversations we've ever had — and for good reason. If you're trying to land your first clients or grow your solo business, Bob's Go-Giver principles are a masterclass in creating value, building trust, and turning relationships into revenue.I wanted to bring this one back for our thousands of new listeners. There is so much value to be learned from Bob and a core to solopreneur success.Listen for three big takeaways:

Healthcare is the #1 concern from wannabe escapees DM Brett about. Today, benefits veteran and fellow escapee Tom Morrissey breaks down a solo-friendly health plan designed for one-person companies: Solo Health Collective. We cover who qualifies, how underwriting your business (not you as an individual) changes the game, pricing logic, networks, what's covered, what's not, and where this is all headed (biomarkers, portable benefits, and association plans). If you've ever said “I'd leave corporate, but… benefits,” this is your episode.Links: Solo Health Collective: https://hbgsolo.com/ Tom Morrissey LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommorrisseyhbg/ What You'll LearnWho qualifies & how it works: EIN required, brief medical history, plan in your business's name (self-insured structure for solos).How it's different: Not ACA and not a sharing ministry; three high-deductible options ($2.5K / $5K / $10K) with 100% coverage after the deductible and no annual/lifetime max.Network & Rx: Open network with MultiPlan/PHCS PPO; pharmacy via Pharos Rx; prior auth for big procedures.Costs & fit: Age-rated pricing—often competitive vs. ACA when you compare total cost + design—but not for everyone (medical questionnaire matters).Service that doesn't stink: Human, concierge-style support (aka you can talk to a person).The road ahead: Optional “Solo-Plus” wellness track (full lab panels 2x/year) to drive better health and better underwriting; watch items like portable benefits and association health plans that could expand options for independents.Timestamps00:00 Welcome & why healthcare keeps people stuck02:00 What Solo Health Collective is (and isn't)04:00 Tom's background (Cigna → self-insured solutions for small employers → solos)07:30 Why underwrite the business of one (EIN)10:30 The cost problem (everywhere) & what drives premiums15:00 Getting a quote in minutes; three plan designs; preventive care at 100%18:45 Networks (MultiPlan/PHCS), open access, prior auth for big bills21:00 White-glove support & Trustpilot traction22:45 Who it's not for (questionnaire fails; ACA may be better)24:30 Simplicity: deductible = out-of-pocket; families cap at 2x deductible25:40 Future: biomarkers program, better health → better rates30:30 Policy watch: portable benefits & association health plans34:30 Final advice: know all your options; compare total cost & designAbout Our GuestTom Morrissey is a benefits industry veteran (40+ years) and co-builder of Solo Health Collective, a national health plan purpose-built for self-employed business owners with no W-2 employees. Previously with Cigna serving mid-market and national accounts, Tom now focuses on accessible, concierge-level benefits for one-person companies.DisclaimerThis episode is for educational purposes only and is not insurance, legal, or financial advice. Compare options (ACA, off-exchange, group, and Solo Health Collective) and choose what fits your situation.

What happens after you escape corporate? How do you make your solo business work long-term—without burning out or losing the freedom you left for?In this episode, Brett sits down with Jenni Gritters, author of The Sustainable Solopreneur and coach to creatives, consultants, and coaches who want to build profitable, flexible, and fulfilling solo businesses.Jenni shares her journey from The New York Times to building a six-figure business working just 25 hours a week. Together, Brett and Jenni unpack what sustainability really means—financially, mentally, and emotionally—for Gen Xers who've left corporate (or are ready to).They dive into:✅ The “three-to-four-year wall” most solopreneurs hit—and how to move past it✅ Building multiple revenue streams without chaos✅ Shifting from survival mode to intentional growth✅ Why sharing your numbers builds trust (and confidence)✅ How to measure success beyond money—using purpose, time, and happinessIf you've escaped corporate or are thinking about it, this conversation is your roadmap for building a business—and a life—you actually want to sustain.Connect with Jenni Gritters

GenX Escapees: this one's your playbook. Michael Himmelfarb (multi-time guest and early Escapee OG) breaks down how to productize a fast, high-value, AI-enhanced consulting offer—think $5K in 48 hours—by letting AI handle the heavy lifting while you deliver the human superpowers clients actually pay for: judgment, creativity, prediction, and trust. We get into pricing, point solutions, and why your domain expertise beats “AI-only” every time.You'll learn • Why buyers now demand crystal-clear outcomes (not squishy retainers). • The 20/80 model: let AI do the grunt work; you monetize the last mile. • How to turn pricing/product packaging into a repeatable, point-solution offer. • A hybrid delivery model (intake → AI analysis → live consult) that wins deals fast. • Where management consulting gets disrupted—and where GenXers win big.GuestMichael Himmelfarb — Pricing & product marketing strategist helping companies modernize pricing/packaging with AI-augmented consulting. Connect on LinkedIn and mention this episode for his 48-hour sprint details.Resources mentioned • Anthropic's “automation vs. augmentation” idea (discussion) • Shout-out: Naveen Aggarwal (technical enablement/automation support)For GenX EscapeesGrab the Escapee Starter Kit: https://stan.store/thecorporateescapee Join Escapee Collective Plus: https://escapee-collective.circle.so/checkout/escapee-plus-subscriptions Work with MichaelWant a $5K / 48-hour AI-augmented Pricing & Packaging Sprint (intake → analysis → live readout with actionable recommendations)? Reach out to Michael on LinkedIn and reference this episode. https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhimmelfarb/ Chapters • 00:00 Welcome back, OG Escapee + today's focus • 01:29 From fractional CMO to pricing & packaging specialization • 03:53 The buyer shift: clarity, speed, and specific problems • 04:22 The 20/80 idea: what humans do that AI can't • 07:40 Automation vs. augmentation (and why it matters) • 10:33 Hybrid delivery: standardized outputs + human judgment • 12:25 Human superpowers: creativity, prediction, empathy • 14:09 Beyond pricing: applying the model across functions • 15:45 Productized sprints → recurring revenue possibilities • 17:23 Big-firm disruption and the GenX advantage • 19:33 Learning curves, iteration, and avoiding “prompt pack” hype • 26:13 Focus, trade-offs, and building a simple offer • 30:28 Shout-outs & resources + workshop idea • 31:30 Michael's ask + how to connectIf this episode hit homeShare it with a fellow GenX pro, leave a quick review, and DM Brett if you want the link to the free Starter Kit PDF or details on Michael's sprint.

About this episodeIn this solo “CliffsNotes” episode, Brett breaks down how to actually make money from your corporate experience — not theory, not startup fantasy — just 17 real ways GenXers are doing it (plus 2 bonus options if you've got some capital to invest).Whether you're still in corporate wondering if there's a way out, or already on the outside trying to replace your income, this episode is the playbook. From fractional and advisory work to user-generated content, workshops, and buying a small business — Brett shares what's working, what he's tried himself, and what might fit your life right now.You'll hear: • Why your experience is more valuable outside of corporate than inside • 17 proven ways (and 2 bonus paths) to monetize what you already know • How GenXers are replacing their corporate income in ~25 hours a week • The difference between consulting, fractional, advisory, and coaching • Why “monthly service packages” might be the fastest on-ramp for freedom • Real examples from Brett's own journey — what worked and what didn't • How to future-proof your income before corporate “quits” on youThis one's packed with ideas you can start exploring right now — no fancy website, no new degree, and definitely no corporate BS.Mentioned paths include:Solo Consulting • Fractional Leadership • Interim Roles • Advisory • Coaching • Business Development & Affiliate Deals • Services / Subscriptions • Paid Communities • Sponsorships • Influencer & Content Partnerships • Workshops • Speaking • User-Generated Content (UGC) • E-Commerce • Tech-Enabled Services • Plus: Buying a Business & Franchises (the two “bonus” options)If this hit home, follow the show so you don't miss the next “CliffsNotes” drop.

Paul Durelli returns to The Corporate Escapee Podcast one year after his first appearance to share what's changed, what's working, and where he sees the biggest opportunities for corporate and medical professionals looking to escape traditional systems.In this conversation, Brett and Paul explore how AI, automation, and virtual assistants can help GenX escapees scale their businesses without hiring full-time employees. Paul also explains how he's helping medical professionals escape the bureaucracy of healthcare and build profitable, flexible practices in functional medicine.They cover why every solo business owner eventually pays an “Ignorance Tax,” how to turn that into an automation advantage, and why building your digital backbone early—CRM, SMS, AI follow-ups—can save years of frustration. Paul also shares a powerful “found money” idea: adding an ADA accessibility widget to your site that qualifies you for a $5,000 federal tax credit every year.What You'll Learn:• The Ignorance Tax: when to stop DIY-ing and pay for speed and expertise• The tech stack every solo business needs to scale (CRM, SMS, email, AI)• How to delegate effectively and build your first small remote team• Lessons from doctors escaping into functional medicine and how that model applies to corporate escapees• How to find “found money” opportunities like the ADA tax credit that deliver instant ROIKey Moments:00:00 – Welcome back and recap of Paul's first appearance02:00 – Why medical professionals are escaping corporate medicine09:00 – The Ignorance Tax and when to hire help10:30 – The best automation and CRM tools for solos20:00 – ADA tax credit: how it works and why it matters28:00 – How small, AI-enabled teams are outpacing big companies35:00 – The mindset shift from worker bee to queen bee39:00 – Continued learning, avoiding the comfort trap, and staying curious41:00 – Where to connect with Paul and learn moreResources Mentioned:• Paul Durelli – Digital Kahuna: www.digitalkahuna.com• CRM Tool – Go High Level• Book – “Pro Voice” by JT O'DonnellConnect with Paul:Visit www.digitalkahuna.com for courses, automation services, and details on the ADA $5,000 tax credit offer.

If your “great job” feels increasingly empty, this one's for you. Former corporate leader Lisa Petrilli (Medline/Baxter) shares a practical approach to discovering your Life Quest—the next chapter where purpose, agency, and freedom replace autopilot. We dig into choice vs. circumstance, how to reframe fear and uncertainty, and simple steps GenXers can take while still in corporate. No dogma required—just a better operating system for work and life.You'll learn • What a “Life Quest” is and how to spot yours • How to move from reaction and fear to sovereignty and action • A 30–60 day Next-Chapter Script exercise to regain control • Why love-over-fear is a leadership OS (not a sermon) • First small steps for still-in-corporate escapeesTimestamps00:00 – Why this convo is different01:20 – Lisa's corporate path → calling05:40 – Awakening without the woo10:40 – Choice vs. reaction in corporate (and life)12:40 – Reframing uncertainty & fear16:10 – What corporate gives you—and when it plateaus20:25 – Purpose, practically: defining mission without dogma26:50 – Starter steps if you're stuck (clarity, script, small bets)30:10 – Why Lisa's book is free + how to use it35:10 – Frameworks beat retreats (avoid meandering)36:45 – Wrap + where to connectLinks & resources • Free book: Life Quest: Your Role in Saving the World: https://lisapetrilli.com/ • Connect with Lisa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisapetrilli/ About LisaLisa Petrilli is the founder/CEO of Higher Conscious Leadership and a former corporate exec (Medline, Baxter). She helps leaders move from mind/body mastery to soul-level purpose and practical action.CTA (one small step)Download the free book, then spend 10 minutes today writing your 30-day script. Prompt: “If nothing at work changed, how would I live the next 30 days differently?”

Robert Lock went from corporate sales leadership to running supply chain during COVID—then used that “between lanes” moment to launch his own firm, Buffalo Mountain Sales Strategies.In this episode, he and Brett dig into how GenX escapees can win clients by going local-first and relationship-heavy, not enterprise-style transactional.You'll Learn

When I first interviewed Jesse Cole—the man in the yellow tux and founder of the Savannah Bananas—the team had just started selling out games in Savannah. Fast forward to today, and the Bananas are a global sports and entertainment phenomenon: • A ticket waitlist of more than 3 million people • Stadiums of 70–80,000 fans packed to see Banana Ball • 17 Major League Baseball parks sold out on their 2025 World TourThis conversation captures Jesse's philosophy before the explosion—and it's more relevant than ever for GenX escapees and founders building solo businesses. His blueprint proves you don't need to be the biggest, you need to be the only.In this episode: • Jesse's “ONLY” framework for standing out (Own the problem, Noise, Love, Why) • Why customers are transactional but fans never leave • How small first/last impression touches create “happy tears” • The 5 E's of experience: Eliminate, Entertain, Experiment, Engage, Empower • Why constraints drive creativity (and why experiments beat iterations) • The Visionary + Integrator combo every founder needsFor Escapees:A great example of what following your dreams can lead to. Also, great insights for building a solo business. If you're landing your first client or building a lifestyle business, Jesse's insights map perfectly: different is better than better. Create fans, not customers—and let them do your marketing for you.Resources • Jesse Cole LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yellowtuxjesse/ • Books: Fans First & Find Your Yellow Tux

What GenXers stuck in corporate can learn from a 22-year-old former D1 athlete who walked away from the easy path, found his purpose, and chose to serve others—even when it was uncomfortable.I like to connect the dots and showcase what's possible if we break out of our comfort zones

Brett and Naveen break down how GenX escapees can use AI to work faster, earn more, and de-risk the leap from corporate. You'll learn where AI actually helps (and where it doesn't), how to turn your experience into simple, repeatable, AI-enabled services, and why singles (small wins) beat swinging for enterprise home runs when you're solo. Think: micro-SaaS, productized services, and month-to-month offers that business owners can say “yes” to quickly.Key TakeawaysGenX Advantage: We've lived analog → digital → internet → mobile. We know how to train people—now we train AI. We also know when outputs are “off.”AI as Fractional Workforce: Treat AI like your on-demand researcher, analyst, designer, scheduler, and SDR. One subscription, many “roles.”Start with Singles: Stop chasing six-figure whales out of the gate. Package $1–5K/month services that solve one need deeply, repeat it across clients.Outcome > Hours: Price the result (clean CRM, personalized outreach engine, faster proposals), not your time. AI compresses hours into minutes—that's the point.Productize the Process: Turn your workflow into a mini system: inputs → AI-assisted steps → valuable output. Reuse 80%, customize 20%.Risk Wins Deals: Month-to-month + clear ROI beats open-ended fractional promises for most SMBs.Practical Use Cases We Cover • Lead gen & personalized outreach at scale • CRM cleanup & contact enrichment • Proposal/slide creation (e.g., Gamma) • Research & meeting prep “briefings” • Contract review & red-flag summaries • Agents & light automations (only after nailing the manual workflow)Simple Monetization Paths (Examples)$2–5K/mo: “Done-for-you” outbound engine (200 targeted emails, replies routed, CRM updated).$1–3K flat: CRM cleanup + enrichment + basic dashboard.$1–2K/mo: Founder research briefs + talk tracks before key meetings.$3–8K setup + $1–3K/mo: Build a lightweight, repeatable micro-SaaS/workflow (pricing, content kits, hiring screens) for a niche.Timestamps • 00:00 Intro & why AI is a GenX superpower • 03:30 From big-corp AI to solo/SMB impact • 06:10 Training people vs. training AI (and knowing “good”) • 11:20 AI as your fractional team: practical tools & roles • 16:45 Thought partner use case (Brett's real examples) • 23:30 Singles over home runs: structure simple wins • 29:45 Value pricing when AI compresses your time • 34:20 Risk, ROI, and easy “yes” offers for SMBs • 38:45 Partnering to productize (stack skills → stack revenue) • 42:50 Action plan & where to find NaveenMemorable Lines • “AI is the great equalizer—your fractional workforce in one subscription.” • “Don't sell AI—sell a solved problem that AI helps deliver.” • “GenX knows what ‘good' looks like. That's the edge 20-somethings can't fake.”Resources Mentioned • Explained Consulting: explained.consulting • Gamma for slide/proposal generation

We're launching a new recurring segment with Lee Ann Pepper focused on real-world revenue ideas for corporate escapees.If you've ever asked yourself, “How would I actually make money if I left corporate?” this episode is for you.Lee Ann and I break down practical, low-risk ways GenXers can start monetizing today—without swinging for six-figure fences or waiting years to replace a corporate paycheck.In this episode, you'll learn:How User-Generated Content (UGC) works and why it's perfect for GenXers who don't want to be influencers.The new inventory-free e-commerce model that lets you launch products without warehouses or Amazon risk.Why the Connector Model (introductions + network leverage) is a hidden path to retainer + commission income.How to get paid for hiring advisory—helping SMBs make better hires using your experience.Why small, repeatable service retainers often add up faster than chasing one big consulting deal.The mindset shift from swinging for home runs to stacking singles for steady cash flow.Enjoy and let us know what you think!

For most corporate escapees, networking and sales feel like the biggest hurdles to building a solo business. With hundreds of LinkedIn connections and decades of contacts, it's easy to feel overwhelmed—or worse, to avoid networking altogether.Enter David Ackert—author of The Short List and winner of the 2025 Non-Fiction Book Award. David has spent 20+ years helping professionals grow their books of business and has distilled his research into a simple, proven framework that removes the guesswork from networking.In this episode, David shares how to replace random outreach with a focused, confidence-building system that actually drives results.What You'll Learn:Why a bloated network isn't useful—and how to focus on the 9–35 relationships that matter mostThe three categories every escapee needs: prospects, clients, and connectorsHow to re-engage dormant ties for new opportunitiesThe “14 interactions” rule and why most people quit too soonWhy doing structured free work can accelerate your first paying clientsHow GenXers' natural problem-solving and “be helpful” mindset is a superpower in building trustWhy confidence isn't faked—it grows naturally from following a consistent systemAbout David AckertDavid is the President of Ackert Inc., creator of the PipelinePlus Tracker app, and author of The Short List. He has dedicated his career to helping professionals simplify business development through intentional, value-driven relationships.

Fractional, Defined: How to Lead (Not Freelance) with Karina MikhliWhat does “fractional” really mean—and is it the right next step after corporate?In this episode, I sit down with Karina Mikhli, founder of Fractionals United, Fractional COO, and COO for the Fractional Leadership Alliance. She breaks down what fractional leadership is (and isn't), how to price and structure your work, and why networking—not job boards—drives real opportunities.We cover: • The difference between fractional vs. consulting vs. interim • Karina's 3-2-1 ops model for structuring engagements • How to avoid the hourly trap and sell on outcomes • Red flags, best practices, and when agencies might make sense • Why SMBs are the sweet spot (and when it's too early/too big for fractional)

One of the biggest challenges GenX escapees face after leaving corporate isn't expertise—it's business development. How do you find customers, create clarity in your message, and grow without getting stuck in trial-and-error mode?In this episode, I sit down with Tom Freedman, a lifelong entrepreneur who has built six businesses and now helps solopreneurs and small business owners design simple, effective growth strategies centered around relationships.We dive into: • Why most escapees waste time on “shiny” strategies that don't move the needle • The Three-Headed God of Growth—marketing, business development, and sales—and how solos should prioritize them • Tom's SAM framework (Solution, Audience, Message) and how it fuels growth • The 4 Cs of messaging: Clear, Concise, Compelling, and Consistent • How to handle the six questions you'll face on every discovery call • Pricing strategies that balance affordability for clients with sustainability for you • Why clarity and consistency in your message is the #1 growth driverTom doesn't just share theory—he lays out practical steps you can apply immediately to land clients faster, refine your message, and build a business you actually want to run.And yes, we already teed up Part 2—where Tom will come back to break down how to consistently get in front of the right people.Connect with Tom Freedman: •

Dual Takeaway:This episode is a two-for-one: inspiration for escaping corporate and practical fitness guidance for living longer, stronger, and on your own terms.What happens when you realize corporate life just isn't for you—before it consumes decades of your career? Greg Bogdanski found out early. After stints in investment banking and consumer goods, Greg walked away to follow his lifelong passion for health and fitness. Today, he runs a growing training facility in Tennessee, helping athletes and adults build strength, resilience, and confidence.In this conversation, Greg shares the lessons he learned from leaving corporate early, the challenges of opening a gym from scratch, and how fitness principles apply to GenX escapees looking for longevity and freedom.We discuss: • Why Greg knew corporate wasn't his long-term path • How he turned a side passion into a business—starting with training kids in a park • The role of experimentation and iteration when launching something new • Marketing strategies that are working for small gyms today (Instagram, Facebook, email) • The importance of play, movement, and mental resilience for kids (and adults) • Fitness and longevity tips for GenXers: • Why walking is the most underrated exercise • How to structure a simple 3-day strength training plan • The 80/20 approach to cardio and nutrition • Why building a plan—whether in business or fitness—is the key to freedomConnect with Greg: • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greg_bogdanski_iii/ • https://www.instagram.com/peak_performancetraining_tn/

After 27 years in corporate—including an executive role—Thea Watkins never imagined she'd end up running her own business. A layoff forced her to pause, reflect, and rethink what she really wanted. Instead of jumping back into another corporate job, Thea leaned into her passions: leadership, people development, and inclusive workplaces.Today, Thea runs a portfolio career that blends teaching, coaching, facilitation, and consulting. She's proof that your decades of experience are not only valuable but highly transferable into meaningful and fulfilling work.In this episode, we cover: • Why your corporate identity can be the hardest thing to leave behind • How to intentionally build an external network after decades in one company • The path from executive leadership to adjunct professor (and why more escapees should consider it) • The real value of coaching—for both yourself and your clients • Practical advice for preparing mentally and emotionally for a corporate exit • Why focusing on values and fulfillment is more powerful than chasing a “perfect” planIf you're curious about life after corporate, in the middle of transition, or already building your next chapter, Thea's story shows that fulfillment and freedom are possible—if you're willing to step into the unknown.Resources & Links: • Website: theawatkinsconsulting.com • LinkedIn: Thea Watkins

What does “retirement” really look like for Gen Xers—and why do so many struggle with it?In this episode, I sit down with Joy Levin, market research consultant turned retirement coach, who helps Gen X professionals design their encore years with purpose, connection, and freedom.We dive into:Why retirement is no longer a five-year chapter but a 30-year journey—and what that means for planning.How our latchkey kid upbringing shaped Gen X resilience, adaptability, and desire for freedom.The social side of retirement—why isolation is one of the biggest post-corporate risks and how to avoid it.Common mistakes people make when transitioning out of corporate life.How to create your own “portfolio life” built on purpose, flexibility, and joy.Why couples need to plan their next chapter together—before one person books the world trip and the other says, “But what about the grandkids?”Whether you're years away from leaving corporate or already in your next chapter, Joy's insights will help you think bigger, plan smarter, and make the most of the decades ahead.Connect with Joy Levin: • LinkedIn: Joy Levin • Website: Gen X Exec Encore

Episode Summary:Think UGC (User Generated Content) is only for 20-somethings? Think again.In this episode, I'm joined by Megan Collier—UGC creator, coach, and champion for Gen Xers and Boomers who want to turn their creativity into a revenue stream. Megan shares how she went from scrolling TikTok with just 200 followers to replacing her six-figure corporate income in just 14 months.We break down exactly what UGC is, why brands want creators over traditional actors, and how YOU can get started—no big following required. If you've ever wondered whether you could make money creating content from home (without becoming an influencer), this conversation will open your eyes to what's possible.What You'll Learn in This Episode: • What UGC is (and isn't) — and why brands are spending big on it • How Megan replaced her six-figure corporate income with UGC in 14 months • Why Gen Xers and Boomers are in high demand in this space • How to build a simple portfolio (even with zero experience) • Where to find your first UGC clients • The right way to pitch brands so you stand out • Pricing tips, contracts, and the AI “likeness” clause you must watch forWhether you want a creative outlet, extra cash, or a full-time business, UGC could be your next big opportunity.Connect with Megan: • TikTok & Instagram: @megan_ugc • Ultimate UGC Course: Learn More Here

In this special episode, Brett flips the mic and joins John Browning on the Building Your Life Podcast. They dive deep into what it really means to escape corporate life and build something better—on your terms.Brett shares: • His journey from 25 years in corporate to solo consulting and fractional work • Why GenX is waking up to the reality that corporate won't take care of them • How he found his first customers (and how you can too) • The rise of solo businesses—and why GenX is perfectly positioned to thrive • A powerful mindset shift: It's not a tightrope 75 feet off the ground… it's just 16 inches • The BAM Framework: Belief. Action. Momentum. • And why chasing time and experiences is the new chasing titlesWhether you're still in corporate, recently laid off, or already solo, this episode will get you fired up to take action—and find your path to freedom.Connect with John Browning:

She's back for part two! Shelley McIntyre returns to break down the exact framework she uses to help burned-out GenX professionals escape corporate life—without hitting rock bottom first.If part one was about why we escape, this one is about how to do it—mentally, emotionally, and tactically.We cover: • Why grief is a part of every transition (yes, even the good ones) • How to rediscover your identity after decades in corporate • The key mindset shift GenXers must make to take action before it's too late • A practical coaching framework for reclaiming your life • The power of “micro experiments” and how to take action before you're ready • Why curiosity isn't a personality trait—it's a muscle you can rebuild • How to perform your way into a more fulfilling futureShelley's unique approach combines compassion with clarity—and if you've been stuck in analysis paralysis, this episode is your permission slip to move.

Joe McKay left a government job in Australia to raise his family in rural France—and stumbled into the solopreneur life along the way. In this episode, Joe shares how one consulting gig turned into a thriving ghostwriting business and agency, all built on the back of his personal brand on LinkedIn.We talk about: • The “fork in the road” moment that launched his corporate escape • Why solopreneurship gave him a taste of freedom he couldn't un-taste • The mindset shift from resume-building to brand-building • How to optimize your LinkedIn profile for connection—not just credibility • His “Lurker Strategy” that turns profile views into potential clients • Why FOPO (Fear of Other People's Opinions) is real—and how to beat it • Why the 1:1:1 model (1 Problem, 1 Person, 1 Offer) works best when you're startingIf you're on the fence about escaping corporate—or building something on the side—this episode is packed with real talk and proven tactics.Links Mentioned: • Joe's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemckay/ • Solo Success School Playbook: joemckay.info • Join the Escapee Collective: https://escapee-collective.circle.so

This isn't a future-of-work episode. It's a how-to-work-differently episode.Paul Shirley returns for his third appearance on the show—and this time, we go deep. We're talking focus, structure, guilt, failure, personal infrastructure, and why GenX escapees need systems more than strategies.If you've ever felt like: • You “should be able to do more” but can't quite get there… • You've got time now, but not the energy or structure to use it… • You miss having a rhythm but hate the idea of being back in a box…Then this episode is your reset.What we cover: • How Paul's focus system helped me become 100x more effective • Why 15 minutes of deep work beats 2 hours of chaos • The science (and myth) behind your tired brain • Guilt, failure, and why most productivity advice is toxic • How rituals become your “Turbo button” for meaningful work • The connection between food, flow, and freedom • How to plan your days so you don't burn out—or break downThis one isn't about getting more done. It's about getting the right things done—and feeling good doing it.⸻

Feeling stuck between your 6-figure corporate salary and the dream of going solo? You're not alone—and the fear is real. But the risk? It's not as big as you think.In this Cliff Notes solo episode, Brett breaks down “The Salary Gap Illusion”—why so many GenXers stay stuck in jobs they've outgrown, and how to start building your bridge to freedom today.

In this inspiring episode, Brett chats with PR powerhouse Tonya McKenzie, a true OG in the escapee world, having built her own agency nearly a decade ago. Tonya shares the story of how her husband (a fellow escapee) gave her the push she needed to leap from corporate—and how she turned that leap into a thriving PR and media business. From launching a local real estate magazine to running full-service communications and now building a new Substack community, Tonya unpacks what it really takes to go solo and control your own narrative.What You'll Learn: • Why Tonya left a corporate role in frustration over outdated practices • How her husband gave her the nudge to take the leap • What she learned from cold calling, local networking, and starting with community • The critical PR advice solo business owners need (especially GenX escapees!) • How personal storytelling and vulnerability are your greatest marketing tools • Why community-driven platforms like Substack are the new PR powerhousesKey Quotes:“Listen to hear, not to respond. That's the foundation of all good PR.”“Your personal brand will attract the right customers—and repel the wrong ones.”“Everyone has a story. But not everyone is willing to be vulnerable enough to share it.”Resources Mentioned: • Sand & Shores – Tonya's PR & communications agency • CTRL the Narrative – Tonya's Substack community • Connect with Tonya on LinkedIn • Ray McKenzie's past episodes: [Oct 2021] & [Oct 2024]If you're ready to get comfortable telling your story and positioning yourself for solo success, this episode is a must-listen. And don't forget—if you're looking to join a supportive community of fellow GenX escapees, check out The Escapee Collective.

Shelley McIntyre didn't just leave corporate—she walked away from a long career in tech and consulting and into something completely unexpected: grief coaching. But as Shelley quickly discovered, grief isn't just about death—it's also what we experience when leaving jobs, identities, and entire versions of ourselves behind.In this candid conversation, Shelley shares her journey of transformation, from leading corporate strategy to coaching GenXers who feel stuck, burned out, and unsure of what's next. Brett and Shelley talk about grief, imposter syndrome (or why we need to stop calling it that), purpose as a moving target, and the creative rediscovery that often happens post-corporate.This episode is a must-listen for any GenXer wondering if they're alone in feeling “done” with corporate life—and what the other side might look like.What We Cover: • Shelley's surprising path from tech to grief coaching to GenX transition work • Why grief is at the heart of every major life and work change • The hidden cost of staying in corporate too long • How to recognize your “hell yes” moments (and why they matter) • Why imposter syndrome might just be learning in disguise • Why purpose isn't a prerequisite—it's a result of action • Creativity as a gateway to rediscovery • What Shelley listens for when helping people “deprogram” their corporate identityQuotes Worth Sharing:“All knowledge is rumor until it is in the bones.” – Shelley“We don't pathologize a kid learning math…so why do we call it imposter syndrome when we're learning something new as adults?” – Shelley“Purpose is a trailing indicator—it's not something you find on a worksheet.” – Shelley“You don't need to pick one path out of corporate. There are many. Just start walking.” – BrettConnect with Shelley:

Supersized Episode Alert!This episode goes deep—and for good reason. Eric Collett didn't just escape burnout and corporate stress. He rebuilt his life around brain health, longevity, and optimal performance—and now helps thousands do the same.This two-part-in-one episode blends Eric's escapee origin story (and the moment he realized he couldn't go back) with a practical brain health masterclass for GenX escapees looking to stay sharp, focused, and fired up.Eric's mission? Save the next million brains.

In corporate, most of us weren't really making decisions—we were following them. But out here? As an escapee, every choice is yours. And decision-making becomes one of the biggest levers for building the life and business you actually want.In this episode, I'm joined by organizational psychologist Dr. Magda du Preez to talk about the hidden skill that separates stuck escapees from the ones who are truly living. We dig into why decisions get harder after corporate, how emotions throw us off track, and the four key biases that sabotage even the smartest solo operators.This one's about reclaiming your power to choose—and learning how to do it better, faster, and with way more confidence. Because out here, your next decision might just be the one that changes everything.We cover: • Why decision-making feels harder after corporate—and how to fix that • The four key biases that derail smart people (and how to navigate them) • How emotions like frustration, fear, and excitement secretly influence your choices • The difference between accurate confidence and just being loud • Why thinking clearly is your new competitive advantage in the age of AI • A decision-making tool built just for escapees and solo business owners • How to identify which decisions really matter—and which ones don't

Welcome to the very first Cliff Notes edition of The Corporate Escapee Podcast—a short, sharp, and actionable solo episode designed to help you take your next step toward freedom.In this quick-hit episode, Brett breaks down the 4-step process every GenXer needs to understand to start making money right now using just their corporate experience—no reinvention, no certification, no fluff.If you've ever thought, “I want out… but how do I actually replace my income?”—this is your roadmap.You'll learn:✅ Why starting with the problem you solve is the key✅ 5 business models escapees use to monetize their skills✅ A simple formula to clarify what you do and who you help✅ How to test your offer without selling (and build momentum fast)

In this special crossover episode, I sit down with Kyle Knowles on Maker-Manager Money to share my journey from 30 years in corporate to building The Escapee Collective and The Collective Academy. We dive deep into why I walked away from corporate life, how I overcame the uncertainty of going solo, and the powerful mindset shifts that made all the difference.We discuss:✅ The moment I knew I was done with corporate for good✅ Why finding your first client is easier than landing your next job✅ How to structure your day as a solo entrepreneur (without guilt)✅ The hidden inefficiencies of corporate—and how small businesses are leveraging fractional and consulting talent✅ Why GenXers have all the skills they need to go solo (even if they don't believe it yet)If you enjoy this discussion, I highly recommend checking out Maker-Manager Money—Kyle has some great conversations with entrepreneurs and business owners.

In this episode of The Corporate Escapee Podcast, Brett sits down with Matt Hobson-Rohrer, an early escapee who has been navigating the solo business world for over 13 years. Matt shares how a moment in a Shanghai hotel room made him realize he was missing too much of his daughter's life—only to have corporate make the decision for him a year later with a layoff (and a farewell gift of pots and pans).Matt walks us through his transition from a long corporate career in software partnerships to consulting, fractional work, and eventually launching his own digital twin and simulation business. He explains how he leveraged his high-value network to land his first clients, why fixed-price vs. hourly contracts matter, and how he structures his business today—with a team of experienced contractors running projects instead of full-time employees.Throughout the conversation, Matt and Brett dig into the mindset shift required to go solo, the importance of lifelong learning, and why corporate escapees often undervalue their expertise when pricing their services. They also discuss how solo business models are evolving into ecosystems of independent professionals collaborating without the constraints of traditional employment.If you're considering your own escape, Matt's story is a testament to how building relationships, embracing flexibility, and continually learning can create a sustainable and fulfilling post-corporate career.