The Corporate Escapee: On a Mission to Help 10,000 GenXers Escape the 9-5 Grind!

The Great Corporate Exodus & What Lies Beyond w/Lee Ann Pepper

Summary In this episode of The Corporate Escapee I was a guest on the Lee Ann Pepper's Class Reunion Podcast recently and she was kind enough to allow me to share the discussion with my audience. I shared my journey from corporate America to becoming a corporate escapee. We discuss the challenges faced by GenXers in the corporate world, the rise of ageism, and the need for alternative career paths. I share my insights on fractional jobs and how they offer flexibility and freedom out...

Disrupting Tradition: How Jesse Cole & the Savannah Bananas Changed Baseball- A Blueprint for Escapees

Today, we have a very unique guest, Jesse Cole is the owner of the baseball team, Savannah Bananas. And I believe he has the blueprint for Escapees (& businesses) to stand out and separate themselves from the crowd. When different is better than better, you want to make sure you are highlighting what makes you YOU.  Get to know this passionate entrepreneur and learn what it takes for your startup to stand out. We’ll talk about: How Jesse is changing baseball through differentiat...

Unlocking Freedom: A Corporate Couple’s Escape (by monetizing their experience) w/ Ethan Bull

In this conversation, Ethan Bull shares his journey of building Pro Assisting, a fractional executive assistant service agency, with his wife. They started the business in 2018 after leaving their corporate jobs. Ethan discusses the challenges they faced in finding their first clients and the importance of having a financial plan and resources before starting a business. He also highlights the benefits of fractional support and services for small and medium-sized businesses. Additio...

5 Steps to Land Your 1st Customer (while still in corporate)

In this episode, Brett Traynor shares a five-step plan to help listeners find their first customer while still working in a corporate job. He emphasizes the importance of having a second income stream and diversifying risk. The steps include checking your employment agreement, identifying the problem you will be solving, identifying your initial target market, reviewing and prioritizing your network, and developing your messaging, positioning, and initial offer. Brett also highlight...

Escapee Curious? The 6 Stages and How to Get Unstuck

This episode outlines the six stages of the escapee journey for GenXers stuck in corporate and provides guidance on how to get unstuck at each stage. The stages are: awareness, pre-escape (curious, interested, fearful), taking action, learn and earn, grow, control and freedom. The ultimate goal is to reach stage six, where one has the confidence and freedom to pursue their own path. The conversation emphasizes the importance of taking action, testing, and learning, as well as seekin...

The Corporate Escapee Goes Down Under: A Discussion With Michael Haynes About Professional Services as Exit Strategy

Summary In this episode, Michael Haynes shares insights and guidance on how corporate escapees can build their own B2B professional service practice. He emphasizes the importance of expertise and the need to deliver advice, insights, and recommendations to clients. Haynes highlights the significance of listening and researching the market to understand target industries, customers, and decision-makers. He recommends becoming visible in the target market by leveraging professional as...

How to Escape Corporate & Why Brett Would Bet Everything on the Future of Fractional

Summary This is a special episode of the Corporate Escapee podcast. I was recently interviewed on hot new podcast called Your Work Friends.  It was a fun conversation with the 2 hosts Mel and Francesca. They are two HR leaders with no filters. Your Work Friends Linktree: https://linktr.ee/yourworkfriends  Your Work Friends Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2280460 Join the Your Work Friends LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9558237/   Brett Trainor, founder of T...

Reimagining Possibilities: Tamara Loring on Escaping the 9-to-5

Summary In this episode, Tamara Loring, from the Entrepreneur Source, discusses the need for change and the possibilities that exist beyond the corporate world. She emphasizes the importance of overcoming limiting beliefs and seeking support from mentors and coaches. Tamara also explores the fear of success and the concept of becoming You 2.0. She encourages listeners to design their lives and explore different possibilities. Finally, she highlights the importance of taking action a...

"Should You Stay or Should You Go?" Exploring Options w/an Escapee Turned Career Coach

Summary In this conversation, Brett Trainor and Don Oehlert discuss the decision to stay in corporate or pursue other opportunities. Don shares his background as a former corporate employee and his transition into career coaching. They explore current trends in the corporate world and the reasons why individuals may choose to leave. They also discuss the challenges of micromanagement and the potential future of organizations. Don provides insights on the importance of onboarding and...

Fractional & Freelance Opportunities in the Enterprise Space w/Matthew Mottola

Summary In this conversation, Brett Trainor interviews Matthew Mottola about freelancing in the enterprise space. They discuss the impact of layoffs and the rise of freelancing, the shift from transactional to strategic freelancing, and the importance of building relationships and aligning incentives in freelancing. They also explore the role of platforms in finding freelance work, the opportunities in the enterprise space, and the considerations for working with enterprises. The co...

Quitting Your Day Job- The Fractional Revolution

This special episode is a recording of a LinkedIn live session called Quitting Your Day Job. This is part of John Arms’s Fractional Revolution Podcast.  In this episode we talk about the how and why to quit your day job. If you are trapped and need a way out, take a wander through today's podcast with my guests Terra Fletcher, FCMO and speaker, and Brett Trainor, host of The Corporate Escapee. Links to the original:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/johnarms/episodes/Quitting...

Escapee Economics: Planning Your Financial Exit From the 9-to-5 w/Laura Lynch CFP

Summary In this episode, Brett Trainor interviews Laura Lynch, a certified financial planner and founder of the Tiny House Advisor. They discuss Laura's escapee journey from corporate life and her transition to financial advising. They also explore the concept of tiny living and its financial implications. Laura emphasizes the importance of aligning work with personal values and redefining retirement based on individual goals and fulfillment. They also touch on the benefits of rent...

Beyond 9-to-5: Embracing the Fractional Work Revolution with Brett Trainor & Matthew Mottola

On this special episode is my conversation with Matthew Mottola on the Human Cloud podcast. They were kind enough to let me share it with my audience. If you are interested in the freelance future, especially at the enterprise level, this podcast is for you. They also have a ton of great content: https://humancloud.work/industry-insights/  Episode Summary In this conversation, Brett Trainor discusses his journey into fractional work and the opportunities it presents. He highlights...

"The Power of Discomfort: Michael Easter's 'The Comfort Crisis' and the Path to Post Corporate Success"

Summary In this episode, Brett Trainor interviews Michael Easter, author of 'The Comfort Crisis.' They discuss the importance of discomfort and challenging environments for personal growth and health. Michael shares his journey in the Arctic and how it made him realize the impact of comfort on modern life. They also explore the benefits of challenging oneself mentally and physically, the impact of mortality on decision-making, and the truth about fad diets and nutrition. Additional...

My Escape From the 9-5 Grind & How You Can Do the Same

Today is a special episode I was recently a guest on Laura Lynch’s Less House More Moola Podcast. We have a lot of synergies Focused on Helping GenXers find and build their best lives.   She was kind enough to let me share this as an episode on my podcast. It is not often where I get to share my journey from the 9-5 grind to a corporate escapee and discuss the mission of helping other GenXers break free from corporate. Episode Overview This conversation explores the challenges fa...

New Year, New You? Is Your Life as Balanced as You Think It Is?

In this episode, Brett Trainor discusses the importance of finding balance and planning for the future. He provides tools and frameworks to help listeners assess their current life balance, allocate their time effectively, and identify their goals and desires. By following these steps, individuals can work towards a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life outside of the corporate world. Takeaways Finding balance in life is crucial for overall well-being and happiness. Assessing y...

The Accidental Solopreneur: A 6 Step Playbook w/Author Dennis Geelen

In this conversation, Dennis Geelen shares his journey from corporate to solopreneurship and provides valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs. He discusses the challenges of leaving corporate, the importance of building credibility, and the process of refining your offer. Dennis also emphasizes the need to learn how to sell and the importance of building an audience. Finally, he highlights the benefits of creating additional revenue streams to complement your high-ticket offeri...

The Great Escape: 60 Days to Your 1st Customer

In this episode, Brett Trainor outlines a 10-step plan to transition from corporate to starting your own business. The plan covers defining your life vision, taking inventory of your skills and experience, identifying the core problem you want to solve, defining your ideal customer, choosing your business model, crafting your first offer, developing your messaging and positioning, leveraging your network, iterating based on feedback, and celebrating your new beginning. Takeaways D...

Exit Strategy: The Godfather of the Freelance Economy on Shifting from Corporate to Freelancer w/Jon Younger

In this conversation, Jon Younger discusses the future of work and the rise of freelancing and gig work. He explains the difference between freelancers and gigsters, and the growth of the freelance economy. Jon also shares the four phases of early freelancing and the challenges individuals face when transitioning to freelancing. He discusses how enterprises are starting to think about freelancers and the importance of workforce architecture. Jon emphasizes the need for companies to ...

Going Solo Decoded: Understanding Its Meaning & Monetizing Your Corporate Experience

In this episode, Brett Trainor discusses the concept of going solo and leveraging corporate experience to start a solo business. He explains that going solo does not necessarily mean starting a completely new venture, but rather using existing skills and expertise to offer services to organizations. Brett explores different paths to leverage skills, such as fractional leadership, consulting, advising, and skills as a service. He highlights the potential for success and financial con...

Refuel to Reignite: Practical Health Tip for Business Owners w/ Emma Terrazas

Summary In this episode, Emma Terrazas, a health and life coach, discusses the importance of personal wellbeing and how to create a healthier lifestyle. She emphasizes the need for personalized approaches to nutrition and exercise, as well as the impact of COVID-19 on health. Emma also highlights the mental aspect of health and wellness, encouraging individuals to reframe their mindset and embrace a multi-passionate life. She provides practical tips for getting started and emphasiz...

Unlock LinkedIn: Kait LeDonne’s Guide for Corporate Escapees Turning Business Owners

In this conversation, Kate Ladon discusses the power of personal branding on LinkedIn and shares insights and best practices for building a successful personal brand. She emphasizes the importance of consistency and authenticity in content creation and highlights the value of targeting specific audiences and addressing their unique challenges. Kate also discusses the evolution of LinkedIn as a platform and its focus on empowering creators. She provides tips for optimizing LinkedIn p...

The Future of Solo and Small Business: Flexible Staffing w/Jens Gould

Today we are talking about the future of how to grow a company- I don’t want to call it the future of work but I do think it is the future of growth.  I have had guests on the pod talking about virtual assistants, John Arms talking about fractional leadership and today I welcome CEO of Amalga Group Jens Gould Jens launched and is running a staff augmentation company that leverages offshore talent. These resources can be a replacement for full time equivalents.  If you are a solo b...

Think Bigger: How the Right Mindset Unlocks a World Beyond the Corporate Confines w/ Anne O'Neil

Anne is a former WNBA player and Division 1 Academic and Athletic All-American at Iowa State University.  Following a stint in Division I basketball coaching, Anne transitioned into international business focusing in on research and training in the neuroscience and performance psychology fields- mindset is everything! Today she coaches and consults athletes and executives looking to elevate their performance by focusing skills/mindset training development.  Anne btw, is also a TV...

The Chief Evangelist Mindset: Boosting Your Business with Personal Passion with Ethan Beute

In this conversation, Ethan Beute discusses the role of a Chief Evangelist and the importance of human connection in business. He explains that a Chief Evangelist is the human embodiment of an organization's mission, purpose, values, and point of view. The role involves sales, marketing, customer success, and product, and is often carried out by a founder or a passionate individual within the organization. Beute emphasizes the need for founders to embrace evangelism and communicate ...

Striking the Balance: Purpose, Profit, and the Path Forward w/ Author Minter Dial

The Solo Business Owner's Guide to the Go-Giver Mentality w/ Bob Burg

Bob Burg Info: https://burg.com/. This link will take you to Bob's content, books and contact information One of the benefits of having a podcast is the ability to connect with folks you really want to learn from and have conversations with This episode of the Hardwired for Growth 2.0 podcast is a great example I read the book the Go-Giver on a Saturday and reached out to the author Bob Burg later that night and within in 3 weeks he was a guest on the podcast I wanted to have Bo...

The GenX Revolution: The Rise of the Solo Business

Welcome to Hardwired for Growth 2.0, the ultimate podcast guiding GenX business owners to 10x their revenue and lives.  Host Brett Trainor dives into the revolutionary trend reshaping business and GenX's pivotal role in the solo business model surge. Uncover startling stats: GenX comprises 47.2% of US business owners, with 85% running solo businesses.  Discover why GenX leads this movement through experience, tech prowess, independence, meaningful work, and financial stability. Jo...

Growth Lessons with the Author of Teenage Wastebrand- Evelyn Starr

I am your host, Brett Trainor. Today, I welcome our guest, Evelyn J. Starr. She is an author, and I recently came across her insightful book called Teenage Waste Brand: How Your Brand Can Stop Struggling and Start Scaling.  I would also like to mention that she has a fantastic newsletter on this topic which I highly encourage everyone to check out. As we have this conversation, I'm eager to explore more about who she collaborates with today, the types of brands she is helping to sh...

Welcome to Hardwire for Growth 2.0: Stop Guessing, Start Growing

Welcome back to Hardwired For Growth 2.0! We're excited to unveil our new direction and refocused approach. After exploring a wide range of topics, we've realized that growth-related content truly resonates with our amazing audience – that's you! In this revamped version, we're bringing you even more value. Expect in-depth interviews with industry experts, sharing their actionable strategies and insights on branding, marketing, sales, and other growth-related areas. We believe th...

Why Your Company Hates You & the Future of Work with John Paul Rollert

Today I'm chatting with John Paul Rollert, a Professor of Behavioral Science at Booth School of Business. John Paul's teaching and research focus on the intellectual history of capitalism, the ethics of leadership, and the application of empathy to law, business, and politics. Connect with John Paul https://twitter.com/jprollert

LinkedIn Unleashed: JD Gershbein's Strategies for Corporate Escapees

JD Gershbein, a LinkedIn specialist, shares insights on leveraging LinkedIn for business development and personal branding. He emphasizes the importance of building a strong LinkedIn profile and engaging with others authentically. JD also discusses the role of improv in business and the challenges of balancing multiple business focuses. He shares his perspective on LinkedIn Live and the impact of AI-generated content on authenticity. In this conversation, JD discusses the importance...

5 Pillars to Guide Life Outside of 9 to 5 with Anna Lundberg

Today I'm chatting with Anna Lundberg about her practical guide to reimagining success, giving you freedom, flexibility and fulfillment. Connect with Ana https://www.linkedin.com/in/annaselundberg/

How to Do LinkedIn Right with Anthony Blatner

Today I'm chatting with LinkedIn Expert Anthony Blatner.  In this episode, we'll talk about the three fundamentals of LinkedIn marketing: Organic, Sales Navigator, and Paid Ads.  Connect with Anthony https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyblatner/

How to Pick Your Lane as a Fractional Executive with Bruce Roles

In this episode, Brett interviews Bruce Roles, a fractional COO of manufacturing. Bruce shares his journey from corporate to fractional and provides insights into the world of fractional work. He emphasizes the importance of narrowing your focus and tailoring your message to attract clients. Bruce also discusses the flexibility and lifestyle benefits of the fractional path. He advises individuals to determine if this path is right for them and to focus on building relationships and ...

A Marketing Masterclass for Escapees w/ Ali Schwanke)

Today I'm chatting with Ali Schwanke. She helps people understand, plan, and grow their marketing results. In this episode, we'll talk about how to style your LinkedIn profile and your offering to create consistency and clarity--and close more deals.  Connect with Ali 30 day LinkedIn plan https://alischwanke.com/linkedin-30-day-posting-plan/ 9 sources of revenue https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kT41Tz4Rg2o How to win client business book https://www.amazon.com/Client-Business-...

Why the Franchise Model Could Be Your Path to Freedom with Mike Waller

Today I'm chatting with Mike Waller, a veteran of corporate America who now coaches others on finding business ownership and financial freedom by becoming franchisees. In this episode, we'll talk about misconceptions about the franchise model and why it may be a better fit for your goals than you think.  Connect with Mike https://mwaller.esourcecoach.com/meet-career-coach-mike-waller/

The One Revenue Strategy Most Escapees Are NOT Using with Brandon Mateika

In this episode, Brett interviews Brandon Mateika, founder of Sales and Marketing Inc. Brandon shares his business model and how he works with small businesses to help them grow. He emphasizes the importance of referral partnerships and building credibility as a young entrepreneur. Brandon also discusses the benefits of the retainer model for marketing services and the value of multiple revenue streams. He shares his experience starting a young entrepreneur program and the impact of...

Create Your Process with Paul Shirley

Today I'm having a radically honest conversation with repeat guest Paul Shirley. Paul is the author of The Process is the Product among other books. I want to find out how creating a process can save you hours of work in the long run--and how to align that process with your goals. Connect with Paul https://www.createyourprocess.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-shirley-360b1649/

It's Not Sales; It's Problem Solving: A Framework for Getting Your First Client

One of the biggest blockers for folks considering leaving corporate and going solo is the lack of confidence in their ability to sell. When I meet potential corporate escapees, I hear them say things like, I'm not good at selling or I don't know how to sell. I have a little secret. You don't have to be good at selling to be successful outside of corporate. In this episode, I'll share my approach to sales that has been highly effective.

187. How to Build Confidence Quickly with Victoria Tretis

Today I'm talking to Victoria Tretis about how she turned her job as a VA into a business. It wasn't a straight path and what I want you to get from this episode is how a self-identified introvert overcame her fears and pushed businesses out to the world one at a time until she found what worked.  Connect with Victoria https://www.victoriatretis.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriatretis

How to Build Confidence Quickly with Victoria Tretis

Victoria Tretis shares her journey from being a virtual assistant to becoming a certified coach. She discusses the challenges and lessons learned along the way, including the importance of finding balance and adapting to changing business models. Victoria emphasizes the need to focus on what you want to be known for and to be open to pivoting and trying new ideas. She also highlights the significance of understanding your own energy levels and creating a routine that works for you. ...

186. How to Get Customers Without Selling with Kim Laughlin

Connect with Kim Mastermind: https://go.culturalapexcoach.com/mastermind167476

185. A Recent Escapee Shares Her Story with Diana Martinez

Today I'm chatting with Diana Martinez. She recently had a rough exit from her corporate career and with a new baby at home (and four other children) she launched her journey into being a fractional entrepreneur. Find out how she got her first client in this episode. 

184. How to Get the Most Out Of Fractional Work with John Arms

Connect with John https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnarms/

183. Why Being Different is Better than Being Better

Connect with Jon https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonselig https://jonselig.com/

182. An Inspiring Case Study of a Corporate Escapee with Carole Issa

Connect with Carole https://leadershipactivators.com.au/ https://au.linkedin.com/in/caroleissa

181. Growing a solo business through bold authenticity with Annie Leib

Connect with Annie https://annieleib.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/annieleibmba

180. How to Make Behavioral Psychology Your Secret Weapon with Nancy Harhut

Connect with Nancy Using Behavioral Science in Marketing: Drive Customer Action and Loyalty by Prompting Instinctive Responses https://www.hbtmktg.com/

179. The Tools & Tech You Need for Your Solo Business with James Clift

Connect with James Clift https://ca.linkedin.com/in/jclift https://twitter.com/jamesclift https://durable.co/