Corporate Dropout Stories

Brad Didericksen

5.0 (1)
Business

Intimate interviews revealing real stories, personal insights, and practical wisdom from those who have left corporate for purpose-driven work only they can do. braddid.substack.com

01/06/2025

S1E10 | How Can I Stop Relying on My Paycheck? | Leland Beaumont

This is the tenth and final episode for Season 1 of the “Corporate Dropout Stories” Podcast. A project I never intended to start when I launched the Corporate Dropouts Community at the end of September 2024. I currently don’t know how Season 2 will take shape or when it will release in 2025… …If you find yourself itching to share your own Corporate Dropout Story and co-create season 2, email me directly at brad@dropthecorporate.com to tell me a little about what you’re feeling and let’s get you on the schedule. Now! On to this season’s final episode! S1E10 | How Can I Stop Relying on My Paycheck? | Leland Beaumont An Intimate Interview with a "Self-Made Sage" Who Shares How He Stopped Living Someone Else’s Success Story and Built a Life That Reflects Who He is and Why He's Here. For 28 years, Leland Beaumont was a rising star at Bell Labs, AT&T, and Lucent, surrounded by some of the brightest minds, creating groundbreaking systems, and enjoying the security of a steady paycheck near the Jersey Shore. Yet, something felt off. Then one day, an unexpected question was posed: “Is this something you’d like to do?” In that moment, Leland saw his crossroads. Would he continue down the well-worn path of stability, or take the leap into the unknown to pursue work that felt deeply aligned with who he truly was? With courage — and a healthy dose of fear — he chose the leap. Does This Sound Familiar? You’ve worked hard to climb the corporate ladder, but deep down, you feel a restless pull for more. You want work that excites you, challenges you, and aligns with your core values. Yet, the thought of walking away from your paycheck feels impossible. This is where Leland’s story meets yours. He faced the same doubts, fears, and financial hurdles — and came out the other side, not just surviving but with a sense of purpose and fulfillment from the second career he created. Your Next Chapter Starts Here It’s time to stop settling for “good enough” and start building a life that reflects the work only you can do. Listen to Leland’s story and discover how to step boldly into work that feels right for you. Then, join (for free!) the growing community of Corporate Dropouts LIVE every Wednesday to get support for your next steps. DropTheCorporate.com Be Sure to Reach Out to Leland Visit his website, LelandBeaumont.com, to: * Subscribe to his Substack and Podcast about Seeking Real Good. * Start a discussion with him about one of his 80+ courses provided for free on Wikiversity. * See what he’s developed in the Applied Wisdom Curriculum to prepare ourselves to solve the great universal problems that prevent us from realizing and enjoying all that is most important in life — our well-being. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction to Corporate Dropout Stories 00:30 Meet Leland Beaumont: From Engineer to Wisdom Researcher 02:32 Leland's Early Career at Bell Labs 03:31 Navigating Corporate Turmoil and Career Changes 04:53 The Turning Point: Leaving Lucent 07:31 Reflecting on Success and Management Challenges 25:18 Financial Realities and New Beginnings 31:41 Exploring Human Behavior and Emotions 33:59 The Importance of Emotions 34:30 Creating Emotional Competency 35:56 Consulting and Writing Journey 37:58 Understanding Emotions and Personal Growth 43:40 Advice for Emotional Competency 46:25 From Emotional Competency to Practical Wisdom 49:18 The Applied Wisdom Curriculum 52:43 Seeking Real Good and AI 57:10 Final Thoughts and Advice This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit braddid.substack.com/subscribe

1h 1m
12/30/2024

S1E9 | Can Creativity Save You From Burnout? | Tyson Kartchner

An Intimate Interview with a Cubicle Captive Revealing How Creativity Can Illuminate What’s Missing — and What Really Matters. Most of us crave a simple solution to burnout: something to soothe the tension between the work we have to do and the life we long to live. Tyson Kartchner wanted that too. As a software training manager struggling with the disconnect between corporate metrics and personal meaning, he turned to woodworking and YouTube as a creative outlet. At first, it felt like a solution. Creating something tangible, hearing from viewers, and rediscovering his craftsmanship seemed to offer a lifeline. But Tyson doesn’t shy away from sharing the harder truth: “I don’t know how well I’m actually compensating for how much I hate work with a creative shop outlet… Is it really feasible to compartmentalize life that effectively?” Tyson’s story isn’t about escaping the hard questions — it’s about facing them. His journey reminds us that creativity isn’t always the answer to burnout, but it can be the flashlight in the dark, showing us where we’re out of alignment. Through our candid conversation, we uncover a deeper truth: it’s not about compartmentalizing work and life — it’s about integrating them in a way that feels authentic, imperfect, and true to who you are. This isn’t an episode about quick fixes or tidy endings. It’s about the messy, ongoing process of finding balance and embracing your journey as it unfolds. Ready to Explore the Questions That Matter Most? Join Tyson and Brad in this raw and reflective conversation. Walk away not with answers, but with new questions — ones that could help you find your path to a more authentic, integrated life. Then, join (for free!) the growing community of Corporate Dropouts LIVE every Wednesday to get support for your next steps. DropTheCorporate.com Be Sure to Reach Out to Tyson Visit his YouTube Channel, Geeks Wood Shop, to: * Subscribe to his videos about woodworking techniques and tool usage. * Comment on his videos to share your own projects and discuss the tools required and tips to achieve the best results. * Watch how Tyson delivers inspiration and practical guidance through step-by-step instructions to demonstrate how to make creative designs (Toys and Games, Furniture Builds, 3D Printing Fun, and Shop Builds) using common tools and budget-friendly options. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction to Corporate Dropouts 01:29 Meet Tyson Kartchner: Balancing Corporate and Creativity 03:29 The Challenges of Corporate Life 09:14 Finding Meaning in Work and Personal Projects 13:00 Tyson's YouTube Journey 21:59 Corporate Metrics vs. Personal Fulfillment 32:54 Embracing Mistakes in Corporate Life 33:38 Navigating Frustrations and Mindset Shifts 36:05 The Inner Compass and Stress Indicators 40:04 Woodworking and Creative Processes 44:23 Balancing Corporate and Creative Pursuits 47:47 Finding and Following Your Inner Compass 54:05 Honest Reflections and Personal Growth 57:15 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit braddid.substack.com/subscribe

59 min
12/23/2024

S1E8 | How Do I Stop Doubting My Intuition? | Mila Popovic Geoui

An Intimate Interview with a "Brave Leapster" Sharing the Journey to a Life of Purpose — Proving it’s Possible to Realign Work with Who You Truly Are. We’re living through a profound shift in how we define success. The old playbook — titles, paychecks, and relentless productivity — is breaking down. For Mila Popovic Geoui, this realization hit hard as she excelled in corporate roles that left her feeling disconnected and drained. The pandemic became a turning point. Health challenges and burnout forced Mila to confront the truth: she had been ignoring her intuition, trapped by fear and self-doubt. Like so many others questioning the corporate grind, she asked herself, “Is this all there is?” What followed was a bold decision to trust herself, leave the corporate path, and build a life of alignment and fulfillment. Through breathwork and mindfulness, Mila reclaimed her inner voice and transformed her doubts into confidence. Today, as the founder of Breathia, she helps others reconnect with their intuition through breathing practices that feel meaningful and whole. Mila’s journey isn’t just about her — it’s a reflection of a collective awakening. In this interview, she shares: How to recognize and trust the whispers of your intuition. Practical steps to transition from burnout to fulfillment without financial chaos. Breathwork practices to navigate uncertainty and take control of your future. This conversation is a rallying cry for anyone seeking freedom from outdated definitions of success. Mila’s story proves it’s possible to break free, rebuild trust in yourself, and step boldly into a new chapter. The world is changing, and so can you. Watch Mila’s interview to discover how to trust your intuition, redefine success, and create work that fulfills you — starting today. Then, join (for free!) the growing community of Corporate-Dropouts LIVE every Wednesday to get support for your next steps. DropTheCorporate.com Be Sure to Reach Out to Mila Visit her website, Breathe Better by Breathia, to: * Subscribe to her newsletter about the benefits of better daily breathing. * DM her to explore working together on personalizing your natural breathing to empower you in your work and life. * Learn how Mila uses her breathing practices in the moment to interrupt disruptive mental patterns that would normally cause stress and anxiety in her work and life. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to the Corporate-Dropouts Stories Podcast 00:40 Introducing Mila Popovic Geoui 02:13 Mila's Corporate Background and Transition 04:38 The Role of Breathwork and Yoga 12:47 Challenges and Support Systems 17:43 Breathing Practices and Techniques 28:33 Mindful Breathing Techniques 28:59 Counting Breaths for Awareness 29:35 Practical Breathing Exercises 30:34 Incorporating Breathing into Daily Life 30:59 The Importance of Slow Breathing 31:30 Accessible Breathing Practices 32:38 Vagus Nerve Stimulation 34:06 Breathing for Better Sleep 36:43 Redefining Success After Corporate Life 40:53 Challenges of Entrepreneurship 46:00 The Human Nervous System and Productivity 51:47 Final Thoughts and Advice This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit braddid.substack.com/subscribe

1h 7m
12/16/2024

S1E7 | Can I Redesign My Career to Fit My Life? | Kate Thompson

An Intimate Interview with a "Brave Leapster" Transforming a Layoff and a Life-Altering Diagnosis into the Freedom to Live and Work on Her Own Terms. When Kate Thompson was laid off, it felt like a loss. When she was diagnosed with breast cancer, it felt like the universe was pushing her to the brink. But instead of letting these moments define her, Kate asked herself: “What if this is happening for me, not to me?” Through that question, she reclaimed her rhythm, broke free from the relentless pressure to perform, and redefined what it means for her to succeed. In this raw and inspiring conversation, you’ll discover how Kate: Shifted from guilt and self-doubt to clarity and confidence by embracing her natural pace. Redesigned her career to align with her life, instead of the other way around. Built resilience through intentional action, even during life’s hardest seasons. Kate’s story is a testament to the power of slowing down, tuning into your authentic self, and making bold, deliberate choices. This episode isn’t just about her journey — it’s about yours. If you’ve ever felt trapped by a career that doesn’t align with your life, Kate’s story will inspire you to see the cracks of possibility in your own. It’s Time to Take Radical Ownership of Your Career Listen to Kate’s Story now and discover how to create a life and career that honor your deepest rhythms. Then, join (for free!) the growing community of Corporate-Dropouts LIVE every Wednesday to get support for your next steps. DropTheCorporate.com Be sure to reach out to Kate Visit her website, KateThompson.pro, to - Subscribe to her newsletters on self-leadership - Schedule a free chat to explore working together. - Learn how Kate helps change-makers clarify what matters most to them and create deeply powerful paths forward. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to the Corporate-Dropouts Stories Podcast 00:59 Meet Kate Thompson: From Corporate to Creative 03:39 Facing Unexpected Challenges: Kate's Journey with Cancer 05:23 Navigating Early Fears and Doubts 07:25 The Power of Presence and Empathy 10:31 Redefining Success and Inner Work 16:16 The Importance of Authenticity and Leadership 22:26 Creativity and Rediscovering Purpose 24:24 The Cyclical Nature of Work and Burnout 26:02 Finding Personal Rhythms in Business 28:20 The Challenge of Corporate Expectations 30:31 Defining Success on Your Own Terms 34:22 The Importance of Showing Up 42:46 Embracing Slowness and Creativity 45:23 Final Reflections and Advice This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit braddid.substack.com/subscribe

49 min
12/09/2024

S1E6 | Create Life-Changing Possibilities Without Piling On Debt, Even If Exploration Feels Daunting

What if the key to freedom isn’t a massive leap but a series of intentional, curiosity-driven steps? In this episode, Dave Gray — author, thought leader, and founder of XPLANE — shares how he broke free from corporate uncertainty to build a fulfilling, creative career. Discover how he reframed risk as opportunity, balanced stability with passion, and cultivated a mindset of endless possibilities. If you’ve ever wondered how to pursue your passions without piling on debt or sacrificing your sense of security, Dave’s story will inspire you to embrace the life-changing power of “What if?” Be sure to reach out to Dave Visit his website, schoolofthepossible.com, to * Subscribe to his newsletter on community experimental learning. * Attend free weekly 90-minute experimental learning sessions. * Learn how Dave acts as a “Johnny Appleseed” dropping seeds of possibility everywhere he goes to develop a discovery mindset in others. -> And don’t forget to join your fellow Corporate Dropouts at our WaterCoolerCall every Wednesday at 11am ET! Corporate-Dropouts.com Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 02:11 Dave Gray's Early Career and Inspirations 05:55 Transition from Corporate to Academic Life 10:18 Starting a Business and Taking Risks 16:22 The Importance of 'What If' Thinking 21:43 Managing Risk and Financial Independence 26:34 The Power of 'What If' Thinking 27:34 Reversibility of Decisions 28:39 Experimentation and Rejection 30:01 The Corporate World and Fear 32:28 Living a Thrifty and Creative Life 37:31 Finding Stability for Creativity 38:14 Taking Risks and Making Decisions 41:03 Daily Habits and Small Experiments 43:54 The Possibilitarian Philosophy 47:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit braddid.substack.com/subscribe

58 min
12/02/2024

S1E5 | Step Into Self-Employment Without Getting Overwhelmed by Chaos

Jody Gates didn’t leave corporate life by choice — fate gave him the push he had been avoiding for years. In this raw and inspiring episode, Jody shares how he turned the chaos of a sudden layoff into the freedom of building a life and business on his own terms. Discover the wake-up call that revealed how corporate life drained his energy, the role of community in lifting him up, and why you don’t need a perfect plan to take the leap. If you’re stuck in a job that no longer serves you and craving a life that feels authentic and free, this conversation will show you how to embrace the uncertainty and channel your chaos into meaningful action. Don’t miss it! Be sure to reach out to Jody Visit his website, ChaosCooperative.com, to - Subscribe to his newsletter for perspectives on finding focus. - Attend free 90-minute co-working sessions. - Learn how Jody takes the whirlwind of ideas ricocheting around your brain and turns them into meaningful action. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit braddid.substack.com/subscribe

1h 21m
11/25/2024

S1E4 | Transition Into Independent Work Without Feeling Isolated

After 19 years in a high-pressure corporate career, Susan Gongal made the bold decision to leave behind stability and a close-knit team to pursue a career that truly aligned with her values and aspirations. In this episode, Susan shares how she navigated the emotional and practical challenges of starting over, from overcoming corporate burnout to building a network from scratch. Discover the lessons she learned about transforming transferable skills, embracing uncertainty, and creating a meaningful independent career. If you’ve ever dreamed of breaking free from the golden handcuffs, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration to help you take the leap. Be sure to reach out to Susan Visit her website, surgeadvisory.ca, to - Subscribe to her newsletter for practical business insights. - Schedule a free 30-minute chat to explore working together. - Learn how Susan builds bridges from vision and mission to reality for municipal, academic, and entrepreneurial organizations. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit braddid.substack.com/subscribe

1h 35m
11/18/2024

S1E3 | Build a Career of Impact Without Losing Control of Your Time

Derek MacDonald just took the bold leap from corporate life to self-employment, seeking freedom, fulfillment, and a career aligned with his deepest values. In this eye-opening episode, Derek reveals the financial and personal steps he took to prepare, the mindset shifts that kept him on track, and the breakthrough moments that reignited his passion and clarified his path. If you’re dreaming of a life beyond the 9-to-5 but aren’t sure where to start, tune in to discover Derek’s hard-won lessons, insights, and the actionable steps you can take to build a career with true impact. This is the roadmap for anyone ready to redefine success on their own terms. Be sure to reach out to Derek Visit his website, DerekMacDonald.com, to: - Subscribe to his newsletter for fresh insights. - Schedule a free 60-minute chat to explore working together. - Learn how Derek helps tech leaders and remote workers create work weeks that don’t suck. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit braddid.substack.com/subscribe

1h 12m
11/11/2024

S1E2 | Overcome Corporate Fear and Regain Your Autonomy

After 30 years in a corporate environment fueled by politics, backbiting, and fear, Mike Parker had enough. In this episode, Mike shares his journey from feeling trapped in a high-stakes consulting role to building a life of true autonomy through Liminal Coaching. Learn how Mike overcame the pressures of corporate fear to reclaim his purpose and help others do the same. If you’ve ever felt stifled by a culture that prioritizes profits over people, this conversation will inspire you to take control of your career — and your life. Tune in to discover how to overcome corporate fear, regain your autonomy, and start your own journey toward meaningful work. And don’t forget to join our supportive community at the WaterCooler every Wednesday at 11am EST! Corporate-Dropouts.com/watercooler This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit braddid.substack.com/subscribe

1h 6m
11/04/2024

S1E1 | Can I Achieve Time Freedom Without Sacrificing Financial Stability?

Ever feel like your corporate job is suffocating your creativity and purpose? In our first Corporate Dropout interview, Francois takes us through his journey from managing teams within endless bureaucracy to becoming a self-employed entrepreneur who values his freedom above all else. Francois opens up about facing financial droughts, navigating the stress of running a solo business, and redefining his identity outside the corporate framework. He shares his hardest lessons, surprising wins, and the exact steps he took to build a fulfilling life on his terms. If you’re considering your own leap, tune in for Francois’ powerful story and practical insights. And don’t forget to join our supportive community at the WaterCooler every Wednesday at 11am EST! https://corporate-dropouts.com/watercooler Be sure to reach out to Francois 1. Francois is an NLP accredited trainer and coach Direct message Francois here → https://www.linkedin.com/in/francois-coetzee/ 2. Francois is a great collaborator Join him at the School of the Possible here → https://schoolofthepossible.com/school-of-... 3. Francois is often a mentor at our WaterCoolerCall Wednesdays at 11am EST → https://corporate-dropouts.com/watercooler This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit braddid.substack.com/subscribe

1h 33m

10 Episodes

Intimate interviews revealing real stories, personal insights, and practical wisdom from those who have left corporate for purpose-driven work only they can do. braddid.substack.com

Creator

Brad Didericksen
Years Active

2K
Episodes

10
Rating

Explicit
Copyright

© Brad Didericksen
Show Website

Corporate Dropout Stories