Brett Trainor Unplugged

By Brett TrainorBusiness Entrepreneurship Education Self-Improvement

Brett Trainor Unplugged episodes

February 18, 2025Fractional 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.
1 hr 2 min
February 13, 2025Losing 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
42 min
January 25, 2025Redefining 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
48 min
January 17, 2025How 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-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
35 min
January 04, 2025Escaping the 9-5: My Story & Interview from the What’s Next GenX Podcast
Welcome back to The Corporate Escapee podcast. I’m thrilled to bring you something a little different today. Recently, I had the privilege of being a guest on the What’s Next GenX podcast with Nicole and Anne Marie. These two are all about helping Gen Xers like us figure out what’s next in our careers and lives.

In this episode, we dove deep into the journey of leaving corporate life and building a career on your own terms. We talked about the tipping point that led me to escape corporate, how I discovered there are countless ways to monetize your experience, and the surprising role TikTok played in growing my mission to help 100,000 Gen Xers find freedom. We even touched on how small businesses and solo entrepreneurs can thrive in today’s world, leveraging their skills and embracing the new opportunities AI brings.

What’s Next GenX podcast: https://www.whatsnextgenx.com/podcast

Takeaways
Brett Trainor is on a mission to help 100,000 Gen Xers escape corporate life.
The transition from corporate to solo work can be liberating and fulfilling.
TikTok has become a powerful platform for connecting with Gen X professionals.
Many Gen Xers feel trapped in the corporate ladder and seek alternatives.
The importance of community support in navigating career transitions.
Fear of leaving corporate jobs often holds people back from pursuing their passions.
Entrepreneurship allows for a more flexible and purpose-driven life.
Collaboration among Gen Xers can lead to greater opportunities.
The corporate world often stifles creativity and personal growth.
Designing a life that fits personal values is possible outside of corporate structures. Multiple income streams are essential for financial stability.
Small businesses often need foundational help rather than advanced solutions.
AI presents both challenges and opportunities for small businesses.
Gen X professionals have valuable experience to offer in consulting roles.
It's important to focus on the problems you can solve for clients.
Overthinking can hinder progress; taking action is crucial.
Understanding what you truly want from your career is vital.
Networking and giving back can help build confidence and connections.
Testing ideas while still in corporate can ease the transition.
Structure and routine are important for managing a freelance career.
Sound Bites
"I'm on a mission to help GenXers."
"I realized I don't want to climb anymore."
"It's not as scary as it looks."
"Multiple revenue streams are the key."
"Done is better than perfect."
"What do I want to work?"
"It's not you, it's me."
"You can test it without going all in."
"Your future is yours to create."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Escape from Corporate Life

03:10 Brett's Journey: From Corporate to Consulting

05:52 The Power of TikTok: Connecting with Gen X

09:09 Redefining Success: Beyond the Corporate Ladder

11:52 The Surprising Freedom of Entrepreneurship

15:04 Overcoming Fear: The Transition from Corporate to Solo Work

18:10 Building a Community: Supporting Each Other in Transition

21:03 Collaborative Opportunities: The New Way Forward

22:47 Exploring Multiple Income Streams

29:18 Identifying Problems to Solve

34:20 Testing the Waters Before Transition

36:58 Embracing Change and Future Opportunities
46 min
December 31, 2024Ditch the Cold Outreach: How Thom Van Dyke Builds Business with High-Value Introductions
In this episode of the Corporate Escape-y Podcast, Thom shares his unique journey from being a pastor for 19 years to becoming a successful entrepreneur and StoryBrand coach. He discusses the challenges he faced during his transition, including imposter syndrome and the importance of building a network based on trust.

In this conversation, Thom and Brett discuss the importance of growth strategies for small businesses, emphasizing the role of networking and the concept of source networking. Thom shares his approach to building a client base through strategic introductions and the significance of investing in oneself as a solopreneur.

The discussion highlights the need for efficiency in networking and the evolution of business strategies over time.

Key insights include:
The importance of starting with those who already trust you when building a business.
How to reframe networking into “source networking” by trading high-quality introductions with a curated group of peers.
The value of flexibility and adaptability in aligning services with client needs, especially as a solopreneur.
Why investing in yourself and finding the right support can accelerate success.
Thom’s practical advice and actionable strategies are a must-hear for anyone considering leaving corporate life or seeking to optimize their networking approach. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your solo business model, this episode is packed with inspiration and tips to help you succeed.

Takeaways
Thom transitioned from a 19-year career as a pastor to entrepreneurship.
He faced significant imposter syndrome when starting his business.
Building a network of trust was crucial for his early success.
Flexibility in service offerings can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Effective communication is key to connecting with clients.
Clients care more about results than titles or certifications.
Adjusting messages to fit client needs is essential for success.
Thom's first contracts were largely based on sympathy from his network.
A client-centric approach is more effective than a one-size-fits-all strategy.
Understanding the client's perspective on revenue is vital. Position yourself as a fractional chief growth officer.
Networking should be approached with intention and strategy.
Source networking is more effective than traditional networking.
Control introductions to ensure quality connections.
Investing in yourself is crucial for success.
A full pipeline comes from warm introductions.
Consistency in chosen marketing strategies is key.
Avoid cold outreach; focus on relational connections.
Your unique selling proposition is you and your chemistry.
Business strategies should evolve over time.

Chapters

00:00 Thom's Unique Escape Journey

02:56 Transitioning from Ministry to Business

05:47 Navigating Imposter Syndrome and Early Success

08:58 Building a Network and Gaining Trust

12:07 Adapting Services to Client Needs

14:57 The Importance of Communication in Business

17:51 Flexibility in Business Offerings

21:00 Client-Centric Approach Over Titles

23:37 Positioning for Growth

24:45 The Power of Networking

25:52 Source Networking Explained

29:46 The Importance of Introductions

32:40 Building a Full Pipeline

35:48 Investing in Yourself
44 min
December 27, 2024Couples, Tech, and Taking the Leap: Escapee Lessons from Heather McLean
Welcome back to The Corporate Escapee Podcast! In today’s episode, I’m thrilled to chat with Heather McLean, a recent escapee who left behind a high-powered corporate role leading a 400-person software development team to co-found her own tech-focused business alongside her husband.

Heather shares her journey from back-to-back corporate meetings and burnout to building a company that’s already making waves in AI and emerging technologies. We’ll talk about the leap of faith she took, how leveraging her network got her first clients, and what it’s like to run a business as a couple. Plus, we dive into why AI is the next big wave for escapees and how Gen Xers can get ahead of it.

Whether you’re dreaming of your own escape or looking for inspiration to take your business to the next level, this episode is packed with insights, lessons, and actionable advice. Let’s get into it!

Contact Information
Website: mcleanforrester.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-mclean1/
Takeaways
Heather transitioned from a corporate job to entrepreneurship just over a year ago.
She leveraged her extensive network to find her first customers.
The couple's shared passion for their business has strengthened their relationship.
They are focusing on AI and emerging technology in their business.
Heather's corporate experience prepared her for pricing and contract negotiations.
The couple plans to hire employees to grow their business further.
They initially pursued government contracts but found more success in the commercial space.
Heather's husband brings valuable expertise in data and IT strategy to the business.
They have a strong team dynamic due to their previous working relationships.
The couple enjoys discussing business during their personal time, enhancing both work and life. Passion is essential for building a successful business.
Seeking a coach can accelerate personal growth and development.
Investing in personal branding is crucial for attracting clients.
Starting a podcast can be a valuable way to share knowledge and connect with an audience.
AI is a transformative force that businesses need to embrace.
Understanding data management is key to leveraging AI effectively.
Continuous learning is vital in adapting to new technologies.
Modern business structures should prioritize customer experience over traditional silos.
Entrepreneurs should not be afraid to innovate and try new approaches.
Work-life balance improves significantly after leaving corporate jobs.
Sound Bites
"We just need to do this ourselves."
"Leverage your network."
"We have all the context."
"I wish I had done that sooner."
"This is going to be the wave."
"You can do this. You can do this."

Chapters

00:00 The Journey of Escape: Heather's Transition from Corporate to Entrepreneurship

03:02 Building a Business Together: The Power of Partnership

06:02 Leveraging Networks: The Key to Finding First Customers

09:09 Navigating Pricing and Business Structure

11:58 Combining Forces: Heather and Her Husband's Collaborative Efforts

14:59 Passion-Driven Success: The Importance of Love for the Work

16:37 The Importance of Passion in Business

17:18 Reflecting on the Transition from Corporate to Entrepreneurship

18:32 Building a Personal Brand and Seeking Guidance

19:27 Launching the Tech Tea Podcast

20:55 Embracing AI: A New Frontier

22:36 The Role of Data in AI Adoption

24:32 Encouraging Learning and Adaptation in AI

26:27 The Need for Modern Business Structures

28:57 Navigating the Future of AI in Business

31:53 Final Thoughts on Leaving Corporate Life
33 min
December 20, 2024<UPDATED>Breaking the Golden Handcuffs: A Journey to True Happiness with Nic Jones
In this episode of The Corporate Escapee Podcast, Brett Trainor speaks with Nic Jones, a former corporate executive turned bus driver who shares his journey of redefining success and happiness. Nic reflects on his 40-year career in media and music, during which he held leadership roles at major companies like Yahoo, Murdoch’s digital businesses, and Vevo. After a failed entrepreneurial venture and personal loss, Nic reevaluated his priorities, choosing to pursue a fulfilling yet unconventional path as a bus driver.

The discussion explores themes like:
Breaking free from societal and corporate expectations.
The evolving definition of success as happiness and fulfillment rather than money or titles.
The challenges of overcoming financial fears and golden handcuffs.
The importance of taking small, intentional steps toward a new life.
The value of rediscovering purpose and the mental process of transitioning to a new identity.
Nic’s insights highlight the importance of designing life around personal values and happiness rather than fitting life around work. His story serves as an inspiring example of how even high-achieving corporate professionals can make dramatic changes to reclaim their well-being and joy.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nic99jones/

The Post That Started It All: https://bit.ly/3BmHKwA

Sound Bites
"I'm a thoroughly fulfilled and happy bus driver."
"Success is the happiest person, not the richest."
"I wanted to be a bus driver as a five-year-old."
"The world was changing, and I was unaware of it."
"You have to start writing things down about what are our outgoings."
"There's nothing richer than feeling happy."
"You need to realign your values if money is your only focus."
"Life's too damn short to be unhappy."
"I never told anyone for the first two years after I left corporate."

• • "If we can help one or two people find happiness, we're doing our job."
53 min
December 19, 2024LinkedIn in 2025: The Know, Like, & Trust Strategy Escapees Need with Deanna Russo
Welcome to The Corporate Escapee Podcast, where we explore the journeys of GenXers breaking free from corporate life to build something on their own terms. I’m your host, Brett Trainor, and today we dive into a conversation that’s critical for every corporate escapee: mastering LinkedIn.

Joining me is LinkedIn strategist and fellow escapee, Deanna Russo. Deanna’s expertise has helped thousands rethink their approach to LinkedIn—not as a sales tool or online resume, but as a powerful platform for networking, relationship-building, and earning trust. In this episode, Deanna shares her journey from corporate sales to launching her own business, her game-changing “Know, Like, and Trust” triangle strategy, and practical tips to optimize your LinkedIn presence heading into 2025.

If you’re ready to shift your mindset and make LinkedIn work for you, you’re in the right place. Let’s get started!

Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannarusso1/

https://leverageupllc.com/

Takeaways
Change your mindset about LinkedIn; it's a networking event.
Focus on building know, like, and trust with your audience.
Your LinkedIn profile should reflect your authentic self.
Visibility on LinkedIn is crucial for standing out.
Engagement is key; participate in conversations relevant to your niche.
Your headline should communicate the problem you solve.
Differentiate yourself from others in your field.
Content should resonate with your audience's needs.
Flexibility in your business strategy is essential for growth.
You don't need to have everything figured out before starting. Engagement is more effective than self-promotion.
Visibility leads to inbound conversations.
Consistency in posting builds trust over time.
Storytelling is key to relatability and trust.
Commenting on posts can generate content ideas.
People remember how you make them feel.
You don't need to post every day to be effective.
Focus on adding value in conversations.
The algorithm favors engagement over likes.
Building relationships is crucial for success.
Sound Bites
"It's all about changing your mindset."
"It's really about know, like, and trust."
"I did not have it all figured out."
"Different is better than better."
"Your profile becomes your billboard."
"You need to have conversations with people."
"You're only shouting from the rooftop."
"It's about adding value and listening."

Chapters

00:00 Reimagining LinkedIn: A Networking Mindset

03:03 Deanna's Escapee Journey: From Corporate to Entrepreneur

06:12 Navigating the Transition: Finding Your First Clients

09:02 Evolving Business Strategies: Flexibility in Offerings

12:02 Authenticity on LinkedIn: Being Yourself

15:11 Crafting Your Profile: The Importance of Headlines

17:58 Visibility and Engagement: Building Relationships on LinkedIn

23:55 Engaging Conversations Over Self-Promotion

28:01 The Importance of Consistency in Content Creation

31:57 Building Trust Through Storytelling

39:24 The Power of Commenting and Engagement

44:40 Conclusion and Future Conversations
46 min
December 17, 2024Breaking the Golden Handcuffs: A Journey to True Happiness with Nic Jones
In this episode of The Corporate Escapee Podcast, Brett speaks with Nic Jones, a former corporate executive turned bus driver who shares his journey of redefining success and happiness. Nic reflects on his 40-year career in media and music, during which he held leadership roles at major companies like Yahoo, Murdoch’s digital businesses, and Vivo. After a a stalled entrepreneurial venture and personal loss, Nic reevaluated his priorities, choosing to pursue a fulfilling yet unconventional path as a bus driver.
Links:
The post that started it all: https://bit.ly/3BmHKwA
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nic99jones/

Key Themes:
Breaking free from societal and corporate expectations.
The evolving definition of success as happiness and fulfillment rather than money or titles.
The challenges of overcoming financial fears and golden handcuffs.
The importance of taking small, intentional steps toward a new life.
The value of rediscovering purpose and the mental process of transitioning to a new identity.

Nic’s insights highlight the importance of designing life around personal values and happiness rather than fitting life around work. His story serves as an inspiring example of how even high-achieving corporate professionals can make dramatic changes to reclaim their well-being and joy.

Sound Bites
"I'm a thoroughly fulfilled and happy bus driver."
"Success is the happiest person, not the richest."
"I wanted to be a bus driver as a five-year-old."
"The world was changing, and I was unaware of it."
"You have to start writing things down about what are our outgoings."
"There's nothing richer than feeling happy."
"You need to realign your values if money is your only focus."
"Life's too damn short to be unhappy."
"I never told anyone for the first two years after I left corporate."
"If we can help one or two people find happiness, we're doing our job."
37 min