Hardwired for Growth 2.0: Stop Guessing, Start Growing!

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

🔗 Learn more about Magda’s work: https://getsense.net 

📍 Connect with her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/magda-du-preez-phd-932191 

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. 💥

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

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...

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

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.

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

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

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-w6g
• https://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