The Corporate Escapee

Brett Trainor
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  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
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The Corporate Escapee

Are you a GenX professional ready to escape corporate life but unsure how to replace your income? This podcast is your financial guide to freedom. Join Brett Trainor—a corporate escapee who’s been on this journey for five years—as he shares actionable strategies, real-life stories, and proven insights to help you replace your salary and build a life on your terms. We’ll also celebrate what makes our generation special: resilience, independence, and resourcefulness. Expect plenty of GenX nostalgia—from latchkey kid memories to mixtapes—because we grew up figuring things out, and now it’s time to apply that to our futures. Here’s what we’ll cover: -> Income Replacement Made Simple: Strategies to replace your corporate salary with confidence. -> Financial Foundations for Freedom: Tips to create sustainable, reliable income streams. -> Stories of Success: Insights from GenXers who’ve escaped and are thriving financially. -> Navigating the Transition: How to manage risks and take control of your financial future. Whether you’re just curious, actively planning, or already out of corporate, this podcast will help you take the leap with clarity and confidence. Hit subscribe, and let’s get busy building the financial freedom GenX deserves—because we’re too smart to settle and too resourceful to fail.

  1. 4D AGO

    A 4-Step Process to Make Money from Your Corporate Experience: Cliff Notes Episode

    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) 🎯 Action Challenge: Write down 3 problems you’ve solved in your corporate career, pick a business model that fits your style, and reach out to 3 people in your network to test your messaging. No selling—just start the convo. 📥 Grab the FREE Escapee Starter Kit This episode is based on one section of the full kit—get worksheets, frameworks, and the full 30-day roadmap to land your first customer: 👉 https://bit.ly/41CqjRw 👥 Join Escapee Plus When you’re ready to go further, Escapee Plus is where strategy meets support. Weekly sessions, expert help, real feedback, and a network of fellow GenX escapees. Just $20/month. 👉 Join here More Cliff Notes episodes are on the way—subscribe and follow for bite-sized breakthroughs to help you Get Busy Living. 💥

    15 min

  2. MAR 10

    How I Escaped Corporate: My Conversation on The Maker-Manager Money Podcast

    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. 🎧 Listen to Kyle’s podcast here: Maker-Manager Money Chapters 00:00 The Journey from Corporate to Freedom 02:52 Finding Balance and Managing Time 05:54 Health and Wellness in Entrepreneurship 08:49 Redefining Success Beyond Money 12:07 The Shift to Small Business Opportunities 14:59 The Power of Networking and Finding Clients 18:02 Building the Corporate Escapee Community 21:12 Navigating the Entrepreneurial Landscape 23:56 Embracing Change and Experimentation 29:50 Surprising Insights from the Community 32:01 The Journey of Corporate Escapees 35:02 Building a Supportive Community 38:27 Networking and Collaboration in Business 40:08 The Corporate Escapee Podcast 41:07 Personal Reflections and Lessons Learned 49:14 The Freedom and Challenges of Entrepreneurship

    53 min

  3. FEB 27

    Laid Off After 20 Years? Here’s How This Former Biz Dev Exec Took Control

    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. 🎧 Listen in to learn: ✅ Why your high-value network is your greatest asset when escaping corporate ✅ How Matt structured his business with independent contractors instead of full-time hires ✅ The biggest pricing mistake new escapees make (and how to avoid it) ✅ Why the future of work is shifting toward independent ecosystems Connect with Matt: Find him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hobsonrohrer/ or visit Roar Simulation to learn more about his work. Takeaways Building a high-value network is crucial for success.It's important to coordinate career transitions with your partner.Having a plan for leaving corporate can save time and stress.Innovations in startups can lead to rapid growth and creativity.Networking at trade shows can significantly expand your connections.Transitioning to independence requires leveraging existing relationships.Mentorship is valuable at any stage of your career.Understanding your business model is key to success.Digital twins are the future of simulation in logistics.Embrace the freedom that comes with being your own boss. Running what-if scenarios provides insights and troubleshooting capabilities.A flexible business structure can accommodate various projects and partnerships.Understanding team members' values is crucial for work-life balance.High talent density leads to better problem anticipation and solutions.Experience allows for higher pricing strategies in consulting.Fixed price contracts can deliver high value but require careful bidding.Lifelong learning is essential for adapting to new challenges.Planning for a longer career involves thinking in smaller chunks.Teaching and community engagement are becoming important for escapees.Remote work allows for flexibility and maintaining productivity. Chapters 00:00 From Corporate to Freedom: Matt's Journey 03:02 Navigating Corporate Life: Lessons Learned 06:12 Building a High-Value Network 09:12 Innovations in the Startup World 11:52 Transitioning to Independence 15:09 Leveraging Networks for Success 17:58 The Evolution of Matt's Business 21:01 Understanding Simulation and Digital Twins 23:21...

    43 min

  4. FEB 21

    The Future of Business is Solo—Why This CEO is Hiring Fractional Talent Instead of FTEs w/ Ron Harpaz

    The corporate world is changing, and businesses are no longer defaulting to full-time employees. Instead, they’re building lean, high-performing teams using fractional talent. But what does that actually look like in practice? In this episode of The Corporate Escapee Podcast, Brett sits down with Ran Harpaz, a former corporate executive turned startup founder, who shares why he built his entire company with independent professionals—and why more businesses are following this model. Ran, whose background includes leadership roles at PayPal and McKinsey, explains why hiring solo professionals isn’t just about cost savings—it’s about culture, performance, and flexibility. He believes that the future of work is independent, and companies that embrace this shift will outperform those clinging to traditional employment models. Ran also introduces Lettuce, one of the first platforms designed specifically for solo business owners, which simplifies the financial side of running an independent business—automating banking, payroll, taxes, and compliance so escapees can focus on what they do best.  What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Why companies are ditching full-time hires in favor of independent professionals ✅ How the “Ocean’s 11” model is replacing outdated corporate team structures ✅ What business owners actually look for when hiring escapees ✅ The key to landing solo work: focusing on your Zone of Genius ✅ How the shift toward high-talent-density teams gives solos a competitive edge ✅ Why Lettuce is making it easier than ever to run a solo business ✅ Insights into the upcoming Solo Summit (Feb 26-27, 2025 Link Below) If you’re still wondering whether escaping corporate is a smart, sustainable move, this episode paints a clear picture of where work is heading—and how you can be part of it. Links Free Virtual Solo Summit Registration: https://tinyurl.com/escapeesolo  Ran Harpaz LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ranharpaz/ Lettuce.co: https://hubs.ly/Q02XnWz00 🎧 Listen now and position yourself for success in the future of business! Chapters  00:00 The Journey of a Corporate Escapee 03:03 The Rise of Fractional Leadership 06:08 Building a Company with Fractional Talent 08:56 The Culture of Flexibility and Commitment 12:10 Maximizing Talent Density in Organizations 14:59 The Importance of Finding Your Zone of Genius 18:01 Shifting Mindsets: From Employee to Business Owner 23:35 Building Intellectual Property as a Solo Expert 25:23 Navigating the Transition to Fractional Work 26:59 Identifying Talent and Skill Sets in Fractional Roles 29:14 The Importance of Agility in Business 31:25 The Rise of Freelancing and Independent Work 34:25 Introducing Lettuce: A Solution for Solopreneurs 41:20 The First Annual Solo Summit: What to Expect

    43 min

  5. FEB 17

    Fractional Success: Mindset, Clients, & Growth Strategies with John Arms

    In this conversation, Brett Trainor and John Arms discuss the evolving landscape of fractional leadership, exploring its growth, the macro and micro reasons behind this shift, and how individuals can position themselves effectively in this space. They delve into the changing dynamics of corporate work, the demand for fractional talent, and the importance of empathy and networking in securing opportunities. The discussion emphasizes the need for a mindset shift from traditional employment models to embracing fractional roles as a viable and fulfilling career path. In this conversation, Brett Trainor discusses the transition from a corporate mindset to a more passion-driven approach in the fractional work landscape. He emphasizes the importance of finding what you love, taking action, and being proactive in client acquisition. The discussion also covers the differences between fractional and project work, effective client communication, and strategies for pricing services. Throughout, Trainor encourages listeners to embrace their unique skills and experiences, and to approach their careers with confidence and intention. Takeaways Fractional leadership is rapidly growing, with a CAGR of 642%.The pandemic has accelerated the shift towards remote work and fractional roles.Full-time employment is often not truly full-time; it's about time spent, not productivity.Many corporate environments are unhealthy, leading to a rise in fractional work.Businesses are looking for pain relief and problem-solving, not just job descriptions.Networking and making genuine connections are crucial for securing fractional roles.Empathy plays a key role in understanding client needs and building relationships.The middle market is the primary sector hiring fractional talent.Positioning oneself as a problem solver is essential in the fractional space.Starting as a fractional professional requires a mindset shift and self-awareness. It's not about a resume; it's about passion.Don't overthink; just start doing something.Follow your curiosities to find success.Your value comes from your wisdom and experience.Proactivity is key in the fractional work space.Listening to clients is crucial for understanding their needs.Fractional work is about ongoing relationships, not just projects.Be clear and intentional in your pricing structure.Confidence in your new role is essential for success.Embrace the freedom that comes with fractional work.

    1h 2m

  6. FEB 13

    Losing Corporate, Finding Yourself: How a Sales Pro Built a New Future w/ Denise Murtha Bachman

    In this episode of The Corporate Escapee Podcast, Brett welcomes Denise Murtha Bachmann, a former corporate sales professional who reinvented herself as a consultant, coach, and fractional sales leader. Denise shares her journey of leaving a 30-year corporate career—one she once considered “family”—after an unexpected layoff. She opens up about the challenges of identity loss, mental health struggles, and the self-discovery that ultimately led her to build a business that aligns with her expertise and passion for AI in sales. Denise and Brett discuss: ✅ The emotional impact of leaving corporate and why many professionals struggle with the transition ✅ How AI is transforming sales—but why the human connection remains critical ✅ The importance of adapting and pivoting as a solopreneur ✅ Finding your first clients and learning to charge what you’re worth ✅ Managing time, priorities, and overcoming the guilt of working ‘too much’ or ‘too little’ Denise also shares her Life Bucket strategy to help balance work, family, and personal growth while building a business. If you’re on the fence about leaving corporate or struggling to find your path post-corporate, this conversation is packed with wisdom, practical takeaways, and inspiration. 📌 Connect with Denise on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/denisemurtha Takeaways Denise spent over 30 years in corporate sales, primarily in software and AI.Her layoff in 2022 was a pivotal moment that led to her entrepreneurial journey.She emphasizes the importance of human connection in the sales process.Denise's initial business focus was on leveraging AI in sales.She faced personal struggles, including grief and health issues, after her layoff.Denise recognized a gap in how sales teams were adapting to new technologies.She pivoted her business model to focus on coaching and consulting.The journey of healing was intertwined with her entrepreneurial path.Denise's guilt stemmed from balancing work and family life.She learned to navigate the challenges of being a business owner while raising children. Creating content pillars can help in organizing life priorities.Life buckets allow for better time management and focus.Early sales efforts often come from personal networks.Valuing oneself is crucial in client relationships.Beta clients can help in understanding market value.Embracing experimentation leads to growth and new opportunities.AI will play a significant role in future business landscapes.Human connection remains essential despite technological advancements.Self-care and emotional healing are vital for success.Adaptability is key in entrepreneurship and personal growth. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Denise's Journey 01:17 Corporate Background and Transition to Entrepreneurship 04:37 The Impact of Layoff and Personal Struggles 08:14 Recognizing the Gap in Sales and AI 12:56 Initial Business Ventures and Pivots 15:40 Navigating Guilt and Work-Life Balance 19:25 Finding Focus and Harmonizing Life's Demands 20:37 Creating Life Buckets for Balance 22:27 Navigating Early Sales and Client Acquisition 28:04 Embracing Experimentation and Intuition 33:07 The Future of AI and Human Connection 37:48 Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

    41 min

  7. JAN 24

    Redefining Success: GenX, Freedom, and Second Chances with Tom Clement

    In this episode of The Corporate Escapee Podcast, host Brett Trainor sits down with Tom Clement, a GenXer who shares his unconventional journey from a blue-collar upbringing to running a motorcycle dealership, transitioning into academics, and ultimately finding fulfillment teaching incarcerated individuals in Arizona. Tom opens up about: • The challenges of starting and selling a seasonal business • The importance of networking and financial planning for freedom • Lessons from teaching entrepreneurial finance and his detour into academia • The transformative impact of aligning work with personal values • How the trades and unconventional career paths offer freedom and fulfillment They also dive into the broader shifts in the workforce, the rise of solopreneurship, and why GenX is uniquely positioned to lead this movement. Tom shares practical advice for those considering an escape from corporate life, including the importance of planning, budgeting, and imagining a life beyond the cubicle. Whether you’re dreaming of breaking free or already navigating life post-corporate, this conversation will inspire you to rethink success, happiness, and the possibilities for your future. Tom Clement LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-clement-ph-d-4261ba19/  Takeaways Tom's journey reflects the challenges and opportunities faced by Gen Xers.Networking is crucial for career transitions and opportunities.Teaching incarcerated individuals has brought Tom immense fulfillment.Work-life balance is more important than monetary gain.Financial awareness can empower individuals to make life choices.Multiple revenue streams can provide financial security and freedom.The trades are experiencing a resurgence due to a lack of skilled workers.Creativity and imagination are often stifled in corporate environments.It's essential to envision a life beyond the corporate structure.Reclaiming one's life involves recognizing and nurturing personal passions. Freedom to choose your path is essential.You don't need many clients to be successful.Companies fear personal branding of employees.Resentment grows when employees are forced back to the office.Academics and corporations have different approaches to personal branding.Disloyalty is a two-way street between employers and employees.Millennials are questioning traditional career paths.The workforce is shifting towards solo businesses.Planning for career changes is crucial.Networking should be a continuous effort, not just in times of need. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tom's Journey 01:45 From Business Owner to Educator 07:18 Transitioning to Teaching Incarcerated Individuals 10:16 Finding Work-Life Balance in Academia 12:44 The Shift to Remote Work and Freedom 16:35 Budgeting and Financial Awareness 19:11 Exploring Multiple Revenue Streams 22:54 The Value of Trades and Creativity 25:12 Reclaiming Creativity and Imagination 25:54 The Shift in Work Dynamics 34:06 Navigating Career Fulfillment 41:56 Building Relationships and Networking

    47 min

  8. JAN 16

    How to Escape Your 9-5 (Sabrina Ramonov Podcast)

    Hey everyone, welcome back to The Corporate Escapee podcast! Today’s episode is a special one. I recently had the pleasure of joining Sabrina Romanov on her podcast, where we had an incredible conversation about escaping corporate life, finding freedom, and leveraging tools like AI to build a solo business. Sabrina was kind enough to let me share this conversation with you, and I’m excited for you to hear it Sabrina's Links: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Jf1aa6-w6ghttps://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLy9mLEnHHo4UqTYr50vaq2A7L48rJwAwT Takeaways Brett's mission evolved from making money to finding balance.AI can significantly enhance business efficiency for solo entrepreneurs.There are various paths to escape corporate life, including consulting and fractional leadership.Many people have misconceptions about what it means to escape corporate life.Building a supportive community is crucial for those transitioning out of corporate.Generational differences impact how individuals view corporate work and escape.It's important to take the first step and not wait for everything to be perfect.Networking and referrals are key to finding clients as a solo entrepreneur.You can monetize your corporate experience in various ways.Education and community support can help shorten the learning curve for escapees. Sound Bites "How do I get my health back?""TikTok fundamentally changed my life.""Time is actually the most important thing.""You can be fractional without being full-time.""You don't have to have a huge marketing budget.""Educate yourself, right?" Chapters 00:00 The Journey of Corporate Escape 02:53 Finding Balance: Time vs. Money 05:47 Leveraging AI for Business Efficiency 09:02 Paths to Freedom: Consulting and Fractional Leadership 12:09 Common Misconceptions and Mistakes in Escapism 14:5 6Building a Supportive Community 18:11 Generational Perspectives on Corporate Life 21:08 Final Thoughts and Resources for Aspiring Escapees

    34 min
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    4.9
    out of 5
    37 Ratings

    About

    Are you a GenX professional ready to escape corporate life but unsure how to replace your income? This podcast is your financial guide to freedom. Join Brett Trainor—a corporate escapee who’s been on this journey for five years—as he shares actionable strategies, real-life stories, and proven insights to help you replace your salary and build a life on your terms. We’ll also celebrate what makes our generation special: resilience, independence, and resourcefulness. Expect plenty of GenX nostalgia—from latchkey kid memories to mixtapes—because we grew up figuring things out, and now it’s time to apply that to our futures. Here’s what we’ll cover: -> Income Replacement Made Simple: Strategies to replace your corporate salary with confidence. -> Financial Foundations for Freedom: Tips to create sustainable, reliable income streams. -> Stories of Success: Insights from GenXers who’ve escaped and are thriving financially. -> Navigating the Transition: How to manage risks and take control of your financial future. Whether you’re just curious, actively planning, or already out of corporate, this podcast will help you take the leap with clarity and confidence. Hit subscribe, and let’s get busy building the financial freedom GenX deserves—because we’re too smart to settle and too resourceful to fail.

    Information

    • Creator
      Brett Trainor
    • Years Active
      2019 - 2025
    • Episodes
      278
    • Rating
      Clean
    • Copyright
      © 2019 B.T. LLC
    • Show Website
      The Corporate Escapee

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