When psychotherapist Amanda Hitchin lost her job during the pandemic, she didn’t just face redundancy, she faced an identity crisis. After 16 years in education and leadership roles, Amanda’s world suddenly stopped. But that shock became the springboard for something extraordinary: founding Colchester Children’s Counselling, hosting The New Therapist in Town podcast, and earning a spot in the UK’s Top 100 Female Entrepreneurs.
In this episode of Get A Shift On, Amanda joins Dave to talk about how a forced ending became the start of everything she’d always wanted. It’s a story about courage, creativity, and the power of saying, “I can’t do it... yet.”
Amanda’s journey began in the classroom, teaching and leading safeguarding teams through the chaos of the pandemic. But when redundancy struck, she was suddenly without direction, and without the security she’d built her life around.
Instead of retreating, Amanda took her payout and invested in herself. She trained as a psychodynamic counsellor, balancing studies, therapy fees, and bills, all without a student loan. It wasn’t easy. It was growth mindset in action.
What started as one rented room turned into a thriving three-room practice with a nine-person team, a unique psychotherapy sensory room, and national recognition for her impact. What she thought was a setback became the permission slip to build a career on her own terms, one rooted in compassion, autonomy, and purpose.
Amanda’s story is proof that growth isn’t comfortable, but it’s worth it. Redundancy didn’t end her career; it reignited it. Her journey is a reminder that courage often looks like sending that first text, renting that first office, or admitting you’re ready for something new.
🎙️ Listen now to Get A Shift On and discover how Amanda turned uncertainty into empowerment.
Follow Amanda:
LinkedIn
Facebook
Follow David / Via Nova here:
Free Personal Exit Plan / Work With Me
Frustrated at Work? Want to know if you are ready for a career change? Answer these 10 questions and find out!
"I thought leaving corporate meant losing everything — money, identity, even stability. Turns out, it was the start of finding myself again."In this episode, I talk with Doris Walsh, founder of Happy Bunny Coaching, about what really happens after you walk away from a twenty-year corporate career. Doris shares her story of voluntary redundancy during COVID, uprooting her family to Greece, and confronting the uncomfortable question so many of us avoid: What do I want to be when I grow up?!
We explore how cultural expectations shaped her parenting and identity, how she learned to let go of perfection, and what freedom actually feels like when you finally stop chasing other people’s definitions of success. Doris opens up about fear, finances, and finding balance as a mother, wife, and business owner, and why, despite earning less now, she’s never felt richer.
This isn’t just another “quit your job” story, it’s a conversation about redefining enough, rebuilding confidence, and learning to live with purpose, play, and a whole lot more peace.
If this episode sounds familiar, please follow, leave a quick review, and share it with someone who’s may need to it!Follow Doris
Follow David:David's LinkedIn
Free Personal Exit Plan / Work With Me
Frustrated at Work? Want to know if you are ready for a career change? Answer these 10 questions and find out!Chapters
00:00 The Journey of Career Change
07:01 Embracing Personal Growth and Freedom
18:49 The Impact of Corporate Life on Parenting
30:38 Navigating Financial Concerns and Mindset
46:23 The Role of Coaching in Personal Transformation
58:23 Happy Bunny Coaching: Helping Others Find Joy
01:11:10 End and Close
What happens when a kid from Armagh, told he wasn’t good enough, ends up kicking Exeter Chiefs to Premiership glory, and then has to start all over again after retirement?
Gareth Steenson, better known as Steeno, spent 18 years in professional rugby, from his early days in Ulster to becoming the Chiefs’ reliable No.10 during their rise to the very top of English rugby. In this episode I sit down with him as he opens up about the setbacks, sacrifices, and pivotal moments that shaped his career, and what life looks like now he’s swapped the pitch for coaching and business.
We talk about leaving home young and chasing opportunities in Rotherham and Cornwall, coping with the loss of his father during a critical season, and finding his place at Exeter just as the club was building towards promotion.
Steeno reflects on the highs of lifting trophies, the brutal lows of self-doubt, and the reality of leadership when the game plan falls apart.
Off the field, we dig into what resilience really means, how coaching the Irish Women’s Squad is reshaping his view of the game, and why running The Stand Off bar in Exeter taught him as much about teamwork as rugby ever did.
If you’ve ever faced rejection, had to reinvent yourself, or wondered what’s next after the career you thought would last forever, Steeno’s story will make you think twice about what resilience, risk, and real success look like.
If you enjoyed this episode, do me a favour: hit like, share it with someone who needs to hear it, and subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation. The more people we reach, the more stories like Steeno’s can inspire someone else to make their next move and be happier in their career. Follow Steeno here:
Follow David / Via Nova here:
Free Personal Exit Plan / Work With Me
Frustrated at Work? Want to know if you are ready for a career change? Answer these 10 questions and find out!#GetAShiftOn #InspiringStories #LikeShareSubscribe #CareerTransitions #Rugby #EliteSport
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Steeno's Rugby Journey
01:32 From Soccer to Rugby: Early Beginnings
03:10 Schoolboy Rugby and Early Recognition
04:21 Transition to Professional Rugby
05:31 Career Growth at Exeter Chiefs
07:21 The Evolution of Rugby and Player Development
10:44 Women's Rugby: Growth and Professionalism
14:03 The Role of Technology in Modern Rugby
17:11 Adapting to Change: Lessons from Rugby to Life
19:43 The Importance of Team Culture and Community
24:29 Community and Team Spirit in Rugby
25:54 The Journey to Premiership Glory
28:19 Leadership and Team Dynamics
32:39 Transitioning to Coaching and New Opportunities
35:31 Defining Resilience and Leadership
39:11 Advice for Life After Sports
43:27 Close
What happens when a former international journalist swapsfrozen peas, Russian winters, and breaking news… for villains, audiobooks, andcorporate commercials?
James Brown swapped the newsroom for the booth and built a thriving voice over business from scratch in his Devon studio. In this episode, he reveals the unfiltered truth about starting a creative business later in life, the wins, the mistakes, and the skills he never knew he’d need.
We explore James’s journey from documentary-maker in Russia to voice actor, covering how he navigated family responsibilities, COVID, and the total career pivot that came next. You’ll hear practical strategies for finding work through audition sites and direct marketing, tips for self-directing from a home studio, and why corporate and commercial work became his foundation.
We also dive deep into resilience, why having a savingsbuffer matters, and James’s take on AI vs. human creativity and why authentic storytelling will always win. Plus, he shares a glimpse into his latest gaming project, including a chilling live performance as The Lord of Lonelinesshimself.
If you’ve ever dreamed of building a business around yourvoice, or any passion, this episode will inspire you to start, adapt, and keep creating.
Please like, share and subscribe for more career change andtransition tips, tricks and more...
Follow James here:
James Insta
Follow David / Via Nova here:
Free Personal Exit Plan / Work With Me
Frustrated at Work? Want to know if you are ready for a career change? Answer these 10 questions and find out!Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Career Change and Voiceover Industry
04:10 James Brown's Journey: From Consultancy to Voiceover
08:33 Experiences in Russia: Journalism and Documentaries
16:58 Cultural Insights from Russia: A Unique Perspective
25:20 Voiceover Artistry: Crafting Characters and Stories
30:41 Crafting Compelling Brand Narratives
33:08 The Art of Voice Direction
36:09 From Journalism to Voiceover: A Journey
40:39 Navigating the Entrepreneurial Landscape
45:20 AI's Impact on Voiceover and Creativity
49:52 Exploring New Horizons in Voice Acting
56:16 End and close
Feeling stuck in a well-paid job you’ve outgrown? This week I share my own , unfiltered journey, from NHS radiographer to small businesses, to show how tiny steps make big shifts.In this week’s episode, I sit down with myself ( David Birchmore) for a solo “Just Me” conversation on identity, reinvention, and what it really takes to build a life you want.
I cover my path from radiographer in the NHS to global med-tech roles, through redundancy and side hustles (yes, even a bouncy castle company) to launching a cleaning business and a mission to help 1,000 people leave jobs they hate.
You’ll learn practical ways to map your transferable skills, run low-risk experiments, reality-check your finances (time vs money), narrow options without overwhelm, and push past self-doubt and outside opinions.
I try to give you straight-talking on validation, market testing, and the first small actions that build your exit plan.Follow, like, and subscribe for more real stories on career change and how you can create your own exit plan
Follow David / Via Nova here:
Free Personal Exit Plan / Work With Me
Frustrated at Work? Want to know if you are ready for a career change? Answer these 10 questions and find out!
#CareerChange #Entrepreneurship #Resilience #Redundancy #WorkLifeBalance #SideHustle
Chapters:
00:00 Intro & why this episode
00:08 Episode 29 gratitude & purpose
01:39 First guest shout-out (Dr. Kyle Stewart & watercress)
03:31 Childhood dream of medicine & early pivot
04:44 NHS radiography and reality check
06:52 Corporate med-tech, travel & chasing titles
08:51 Parenthood, priorities & time vs money
10:00 Leaving London for Devon—first big leap
11:28 Lightbulb moment: starting the bouncy castle business
12:43 Redundancy, COVID & launching a cleaning business
14:58 Seeing the bigger mission: helping people
17:00 Goal: help 1,000 people make a career change
18:59 Don’t wait—start with one small step
20:42 You’re not “just a” job title: mapping skills
23:55 Imagination exercise: design your future
25:51 Affordability & lifestyle trade-offs
28:50 Time richness vs salary
30:26 Narrowing options: start with the “no” list
32:23 Overcoming self-doubt & unhelpful opinions
35:59 Validation & market research that actually helps
38:16 Start small, keep going & wrap-up
From corporate life and a café to pet portraits and menopause coaching, Andrea Clare rebuilt on her own terms. This is a practical, human conversation about career change, creativity, and midlife support.
In this week’s episode, I sit down with Andrea Clare - The Creative Pause Coach - who spent 20 years in the corporate world, raised a family, owned a café, and then rediscovered art at 57.
After a difficult perimenopause, she blended creativity with evidence-based menopause knowledge to help women thrive through her programme “Eat Sleep Pause Create,” and she’s created the Scottish ‘Pause Summit—a holistic wellness day in Glasgow City Centre on Saturday 25 October featuring experts and workshops.
You’ll hear honest lessons on reinvention, how creative practice builds resilience in midlife, and what real business support looks like when you’re changing direction. Expect practical guidance on peri/meno/post-menopause, simple routines that boost confidence and energy, and actionable steps for designing your own exit plan.
Andrea’s Links:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreaclareart
Website – https://scottishpausesummit.co.uk
Instagram (Andrea Clare Art) – https://www.instagram.com/andreaclareart.uk
Instagram (Scottish Pause Summit) – https://www.instagram.com/scottish_pause_summit
Facebook (Andrea Clare Art) - https://www.facebook.com/andreaclareart
Facebook (Scottish Pause Summit) – https://www.facebook.com/scottishpausesummit
Tickets – https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1353424090889?aff=oddtdtcreator
Follow David / Via Nova
Free Personal Exit Plan / Work With Me
Frustrated at Work? Want to know if you are ready for a career change? Answer these 10 questions and find out!
Follow, like, and subscribe for more real stories on career change and how you can create your own exit plan.
#CareerChange #Entrepreneurship #Menopause #WomensHealth #Creativity #Midlife
Chapters
00:00 Andrea Clare's Journey: From Corporate to Creativity
08:57 Understanding Menopause: A Personal Perspective
18:49 The Impact of Menopause on Women and Work
25:45 The Scottish Paws Summit: Empowering Women Through Creativity
33:54 Navigating Menopause: Tips for Women in the Workplace
39:20 Thanks and Close
Shouting into the void on socials? Heidi Medina shows how conversation-first beats algorithms and drives real career change and success.
In this week’s episode, I sit down with Heidi Medina, a 35+ year, 5X entrepreneur and social selling strategist who’s helped 350+ service providers and coaches spark intentional online conversations that connect and sell, without the awkward pitch.
Now based in Portugal, Heidi frees clients from algorithm-chasing by turning comments and connections into paying work and collaborations through conversation-first marketing. You’ll hear how that approach grew from her own five-business journey, landscaping, cleaning, enterprise social, and more.
You’ll learn a practical framework for writing meaningful comments, why “great post” stalls relationships, and how to redefine conversions (follows, DMs, invites) so your pipeline reflects real human momentum.
We also cover resilient career change: patient timelines, learning from failure, and why proactive follow-up ends more sales droughts than any content hack.
Follow Heidi:
Connect & Collab Networking Event
Follow David / Via Nova here:
Free Personal Exit Plan / Work With Me
Frustrated at Work? Want to know if you are ready for a career change? Answer these 10 questions and find out!
#CareerChange #Entrepreneurship #SocialSelling #ConversationMarketing #LinkedInTips #Networking
Chapters:
00:00 Welcome & “Take Two” intro
00:51 First business at 13: $300 → $1,100 flowers
04:23 From layoff to cleaning biz, then enterprise social & coaching
06:43 Uni vs real-world skills; $60k lessons
10:32 AI, digital safety & what schools miss
13:42 Gen X as the bridge generation
15:23 Craigslist lessons & early online marketing
18:20 Conversation-first marketing vs content-first
20:16 Build trust by talking (not broadcasting)
21:40 Autism, entrepreneurship & why corporate didn’t fit 25:19 People work differently; manage to strengths
28:38 Youth entrepreneurship & changing workplaces
33:50 Human detail vs generic AI content
35:19 A comment framework that actually connects
37:40 Why “Great post” isn’t a strategy
44:35 Better to say nothing than “well done”?
48:14 Stop chasing impressions; chase conversations
50:49 Redefining conversions: follows, DMs, invites
53:35 Ending threads & doing the follow-up
56:31 Top 3 tips for human online conversations
58:47 Career change advice: patience, help, fail forward 1:00:50 Wrap-up & thanks
Made redundant and launched a business the very next day, Aleyx Ward doesn’t wait for permission. In this lively episode she shows how story, not jargon, powers real career change.
In this week’s episode, I sit down with Aleyx Ward, brand storyteller, consultant and host of “Naked at the Top.” Known for turning complex B2B ideas into messages people actually want to hear, she helps founders and leaders show up with clarity, confidence and a little fun; after being made redundant, she registered her company the next day and never looked back.
You’ll learn how to translate strategy into simple, sticky messaging, use personal brand to open doors, and turn setbacks like redundancy into momentum.
We dig into journaling to unblock decisions, using impulsivity as a creative edge, and practical ways to pivot offers, ask for the right advice, and speak with stories that land.
Follow Aleyx:
Follow David / Via Nova:
Free Personal Exit Plan / Work With Me
Follow, like, and subscribe for more real stories on career change and how you can create your own exit plan.
#CareerChange #Entrepreneurship #PersonalBranding #BrandStorytelling#B2BMarketing #Resilience
Chapters
00:00 From Aspiring Journalist to Marketing Professional
03:22 The Impulsive Leap to Australia
06:10 Navigating Career Changes and Redundancy
08:50 The Birth of Core Story
11:24 Embracing Impulsivity in Business
14:01 Reflections on Career Longevity and Change
23:27 The Birth of a Business Idea
26:16 Embracing Change and Impulsivity
28:46 Coping with Setbacks
30:56 The Art of Journaling
34:01 Navigating Business Operations
36:27 Exciting New Projects
37:28 The Joy of Public Speaking
39:10 Crafting Your Personal Story
41:04 Book Recommendations and Life Lessons
42:57 Future Aspirations and Travel Dreams
44:43 Podcast Insights and Human Stories
45:55 End
What happens when a global product lead swaps drum kits for defence? Jules Tabberer shares the real, messy truth about career change, purpose, and saying yes to risk.
In this week’s episode, I sit down with Jules Tabberer, a global product manager who spent 13 years at Roland before making a bold changet from music to defence. Now in the Met Office’s Defence team and serving as an RAF Reservist, Jules shows what reinvention looks like when purpose leads the way.
You’ll learn how to translate creative and commercial skills across industries, test a pivot while protecting family and finances, and build resilience through service. Expect practical takeaways on finding purpose, managing high-travel roles, and the mindset shifts that turn uncertainty into momentum.
Jules' Links:
LinkedIn: LinkedIn
Instagram: Instagram
Facebook: Facebook
505 San RAF Reserves: Facebook
RAF reserves (Facebook): Facebook
RAF reserves (Instagram): Instagram
Royal Air Force (Instagram): Instagram
Royal Air Force (Facebook): Facebook
Follow David / Via Nova:
David’s LinkedIn: LinkedIn
Via Nova LinkedIn: LinkedIn
Via Nova Website: Website
Free Guides / Work With Me: Start here
Career Change Quiz: Answer these 10 questions
Follow, like, and subscribe for more real stories on career change and how you can create your own exit plan.
#CareerChange #Entrepreneurship #ProductManagement #MilitaryReserves #DefenceTech #Resilience
Chapters:
00:00 Jules Tabberer: A Journey Through Careers
03:46 From Music to Product Management at Roland
09:02 The Global Experience: Travel and Challenges
13:51 Transitioning to the Met Office
19:58 Joining the RAF Reserves: A New Chapter
24:05 The Journey of a Reservist
27:06 Experiencing Deployment: A New Perspective
29:33 The Importance of Purpose in Career
34:04 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Empowerment
41:00 Advice for Those Stuck in a Career Spiral
43:14 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations in the Reserves
45:38 End Credits
This special edition of Get a Shift On takes you on a fast-paced journey through the highs, lows, and turning points of real career change.No theory. No sugar-coating. Just the voices of people who have been there, leaving behind safe jobs, making tough sacrifices, and building new lives on their own terms.From the moment they knew they had to walk away, to the challenges that tested their resolve, to the freedom and fulfilment they’ve found on the other side, these are the raw, unfiltered stories of transformation.Featuring highlights from past guests including doctors, entrepreneurs, creatives, and leaders who took the leap, this episode is a snapshot of what it really takes to change your career, and your life.Whether you’re dreaming of your own exit plan or already halfway through it, this is your reminder: change is possible, and it’s worth it.
Follow David / Via Nova here:
Free Personal Exit Plan / Work With Me
Frustrated at Work? Want to know if you are ready for a career change? Answer these 10 questions and find out!
Chapters00:00 Introduction00:12 The Moment You Know Things Must Change05:04 Taking the Leap10:23 The Reality of Change13:33 What's Possible14:23 Defining Moments14:31 Journey from Clinical to Corporate14:37 Visualizing Success and Overcoming Doubts14:40 End Credits
In this week’s episode of Get A Shift On, I sit downwith Craig Wood, man who redefines resilience.
Craig is a former British soldier who lost both legs and ahand in Afghanistan. Fast forward to today, and he’s just completed a 90-day solo sail across the Pacific Ocean - that’s 7,500 nautical miles, breaking two world records in the process.
This conversation isn’t just about an epic adventure. It’s about mindset. It’s about what happens when you replace “I can’t” with “Watch me.” Craig shares how small steps, acceptance, and refusing to quit have shaped his life, from recovering in hospital to becoming a professional sailorand now giving back by raising funds for BLESMA and Turn to Starboard, two charities that support injured veterans.
If you’ve ever faced fear, doubt, or change, this episodewill remind you that the biggest failure is not trying.
Listen now and discover why resilience isn’t about being fearless, it’s about showing up anyway
Donate and support Craig’s mission
Follow Craig on Socials:
Follow David / Via Nova:
Free Personal Exit Plan / Work With Me
Frustrated at Work? Want to know if you are ready for a career change? Answer these 10 questions and find out!
Follow, like, and subscribe for more real stories on career change and how you can create your own exit plan.
#CareerChange #Resilience #MindsetMatters #Leadership#Entrepreneurship #WorldRecord
#CraigWood #sailing #tripleamputee #military #charity #adventure
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Craig Wood's Journey
03:13 Overcoming Adversity: Craig's Military Background
06:10 The Transition to Sailing and Family Life
09:02 Planning the Solo Pacific Voyage
11:41 Acceptance and Resilience in the Face of Challenges
17:08 Daily Life at Sea: Lessons Learned
22:30 Navigating Challenges: Equipment Failures at Sea
27:39 Reflections on Sailing and Life Lessons
34:35 The Challenge of Oceanic Sleep
39:39 Nutrition at Sea: What to Eat and Drink
41:59 The Transition to Land: Cravings and Adjustments
43:47 Adapting Sailing Techniques for Amputees
51:22 Building Resilience: Teaching Life Lessons to Children
01:03:49 End
In this week’s episode, I sit down with Mel, the founder of Body Remedies, who shares her inspiring journey from life on the frontlines as a paramedic to creating a thriving holistic wellbeing business.
After two decades in the NHS, a single life-altering incident pushed her to rethink her future, and ultimately, take the leap into entrepreneurship.
We look into the challenges of leaving a secure career, the emotional rollercoaster of starting something new, and how Mel transformed her passion into a sustainable business.
If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to change careers and back yourself, this episode offers insights, raw honesty, and practical tips you won’t want to miss.
Follow, like, and subscribe for more real stories on career change and how you can create your own career exit plan.
Follow Mel:
Follow Dave / Via Nova:
Free Personal Exit Plan / Work With Me
Frustrated at Work? Want to know if you are ready for a career change? Answer these 10 questions and find out!Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Body Remedies and Mel's Journey
02:48 Transition from Paramedic to Holistic Therapy
05:43 The Impact of Stress and Personal Experiences
08:29 The Bowen Technique Explained
10:56 Building a Business and Overcoming Challenges
13:49 The Role of Networking and Word of Mouth
16:34 Future Aspirations and Work-Life Balance
19:02 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
#CareerChange #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #HealthAndWellbeing #WomenInBusiness #HolisticHealing #nhs
In this week’s episode of Get A Shift On, I sit down with Louise McGuill, a former senior assistant headteacher who made the bold leap from education into entrepreneurship. Louise opens up about the reality of leaving a 16-year teaching career, the challenges of finding transferable skills, and how motherhood became the unexpected catalyst for change.
We talk in depth about her journey from long school hours to building her own copywriting business, the power of mindset, and why community is crucial when starting over. Louise also shares practical advice on creating an exit plan and the importance of retraining without fear. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s possible to walk away from a career you’ve outgrown, this conversation is for you.
Follow, like, and subscribe for more real stories on career change and how you can create your own exit plan.
Louise's Bio and Links:
Louise teaches service-based entrepreneurs how to own their audience, nurture real relationships, and grow steady leads with a simple sustainable email system…that isn’t going to leave them drowning in overwhelm.
A mum to 2 wildling girls. And, expert teacher, leader and curriculum developer for the last 18 years.
She now uses her unique skills to unpick the most complex tasks and break them down into manageable, achievable steps that lead seamlessly to success.
LinkedinJoin her Flock🦩here: https://subscribepage.io/BkhJxG Follow David / Via Nova here:
Free Personal Exit Plan / Work With Me
Frustrated at Work? Want to know if you are ready for a career change? Answer these 10 questions and find out!#CareerChange #Entrepreneurship #CopywritingLife #TeacherToEntrepreneur #BusinessGrowth #CareerShift
In this deeply personal episode, I sit down with Tess Lovely, an amazing midwife, mother and raw authenticity, where she shares her incredible journey from midwife to entrepreneur.
Tess opens up about how her career has changed and been rocked at its core, forcing her to confront her mental health, question everything, and ultimately pivot toward building her business, Birth From Within.
We look into the gritty truths of parenting, the overlooked role of fathers in birth, and why support groups aren't just a “nice to have,” they’re essential for maternal mental health and personal growth. Tess shares how she found empowerment in the chaos, healed old wounds, and stepped into her most authentic self, proving that women can create miracles, both in the delivery room and in their own lives.
If you’ve ever felt stuck in a soul-sucking job, suffocated by expectations, or terrified to take a leap into something new, Tess’s story is for you.
This conversation is about midwifery, business, career change, mental health, parenting, and above all, having the grit to follow your heart, even when you can't see the path in front of you.
Expect tears, laughter, blunt honesty, and a whole lot of inspiration. "Life is too damn short not to chase what makes your heart sing."
Follow Tess:
Follow David/ Via Nova :
Free Personal Exit Plan / Work With Me
Frustrated at Work? Want to know if you are ready for a career change? Answer these 10 questions and find out!Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Tess Lovely and Her Journey
02:01 Tess's Midwifery Career and Personal Challenges
04:50 Transitioning from NHS to Entrepreneurship
07:15 The Importance of Authenticity and Self-Care
09:30 The Three Peaks Challenge: Grit and Determination
12:17 Navigating Family Dynamics and Financial Pressures
14:32 Overcoming Workplace Trauma and Finding Happiness
17:05 The Journey to Authenticity and Self-Discovery
23:01 Transitioning to Birth Education
23:51 Antenatal Education and Support
26:15 Addressing Baby Loss and Birth Trauma
27:45 The Role of Dads in Pregnancy
29:42 Empowering Women Through Birth Keeping
31:44 The Importance of Emotional Wellbeing
35:22 Connecting Pregnancy and Business
37:57 Empowering Families and Support Systems
42:06 Advice for Those Seeking Change
In this inspiring episode of "Get a Shift On," I sit down with Dr Becky Howie, a former GP from Scotland who made a bold transition from the NHS to founding her own business, Maldon Lifestyle Limited.
Becky shares her journey into the world of lifestyle medicine;a field focused on holistic health and disease prevention through lifestyle changes. She is a dedicated health professional with a passion for empowering individuals to lead healthier lives. She has worked as an NHS GP for over 15 years and has developed a special interest in Lifestyle Medicine. She started Maldod Life just over a year ago a business that offers private health care and wellness coaching.
She talks with me about her how her personal experiences and passion for patient-centered care led her to embrace this new path, offering insights into the challenges and rewards of leaving a traditional medical career for a more fulfilling and flexible approach to healthcare and self-employment.
She may no longer be a full time GP but she actively participates in the Scottish Government's National Menopause Network meetings, thus remaining engaged with the latest developments and best practices in women’s health care.
Tune in to this episode to explore the transformative powerof lifestyle medicine and Dr Becky's vision for the future of health and wellness.
Follow Becky here:
Becky on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-becky-howie-29212529b/
Maldod LIfe - https://maldodlife.co.uk/
Follow David / Via Nova here:
Free Personal Exit Plan / Work With Me
Frustrated at Work? Want to know if you are ready for a career change? Answer these 10 questions and find out!
Chapters
00:00 From GP to Entrepreneur: A Journey of Change
05:46 Balancing Act: Managing a Side Hustle and Family Life
11:00 The Challenges of Transitioning from NHS to Private Practice
14:59 The State of the NHS: A System in Crisis
22:27 Navigating Guilt and Finding Purpose in Private Care
27:54 The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
30:26 Navigating the Challenges of Digital Life
35:00 Finding Balance in a Tech-Driven World
40:03 Making the Leap: Transitioning Careers
43:20 Financial Planning for Career Changes
46:55 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations and Goals
In this episode, I sit down with Oli Russell-Cowan, a global brand strategist, founder of Unchartered Territory, and someone I’ve known since our school days. We rewind the clock to our boarding school years and explore how Oli's love for skateboarding, surfing, and taking the unconventional route shaped his career.
Oli opens up about his journey from chasing waves to shaping culturally relevant brands, including time at Liquid Death and building global events platform Rad Season. He talks candidly about launching his own agency, the risks of entrepreneurship, and why understanding people matters more than any marketing funnel.
We dig into team dynamics, how to stay grounded in a world of AI and rapid change, and what it really takes to turn passion into a career without losing your grip on reality (or the market).
If you're navigating a career change, building something from scratch, or just wondering how to make a living doing what you love , you will enjoy this episode.
Follow Oli here:LinkedIn profile.
Plus here is Unchartered Territory links:
Follow David / Via Nova here:
Free Personal Exit Plan / Work With Me
Want to know if you are ready for a career change? Answer these 10 questions and find out!Chapters
00:00 Revisiting Old Friendships
02:25 Career Journey and Life Changes
04:56 The Birth of Rad Season
07:23 The Impact of Liquid Death
09:55 Embracing Rebellion in Marketing
12:21 Lessons from Liquid Death
14:41 Navigating Bad Days
17:03 The Importance of Team Dynamics
19:37 Starting Uncharted Territory
22:16 Lifestyle Marketing Explained
24:40 The Role of AI in Business
27:25 Future Plans for Uncharted Territory
In this episode of 'Get a Shift On', I speak with Christi Urman about her career journey from healthcare to corporate roles, the challenges faced in the healthcare system, and the importance of adaptability in one's career.
We discuss the impact of COVID-19, lessons learned from cancer research, and the significance of perspective in professional growth. We talk about how early jobs can shape career paths in unexpected ways and conclude with reflections on future aspirations and the importance of work-life balance.
Christi is an account manager at LeanTaaS, a leading healthcare technology company that helps healthcare organizations optimize their operations and outcomes. Christi has over 25 years of experience in healthcare related fields, including project management, clinical research, and oncology.Follow Christi here:
Follow David / Via Nova here:
Free Personal Exit Plan / Work With Me
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Career Transitions
02:31 Current Role in Healthcare Optimization
05:56 Navigating Challenges in the Healthcare System
09:36 Early Career and Transition to Corporate
13:03 The Impact of COVID-19 on Careers
17:05 Experiences in Cancer Research
18:13 Lessons Learned from Patients
20:13 Embracing Change and Resilience
23:38 Seasonality in Careers
27:23 The Importance of Perspective in Work
31:15 Current Season and Future Aspirations
33:38 Balancing Work and Family Life
39:34 Defining Personal Work-Life Balance
41:29 Navigating Career Transitions
42:09 Cultural Differences: Language and Communication
46:12 Food and Culinary Experiences Across Cultures
In this episode David spoke to Dale Triffitt about his journey from working in supermarkets to founding Groberri, a business focused on providing HR support and leadership training for small businesses.
Dale is the founder of Groberri, a Devon HR and leadership consultancy that cuts through the jargon to deliver down-to-earth support for businesses. With a background in leading teams and a passion for helping managers lead with confidence, Dale works with organisations of all sizes from hands-on business owners to first-time team leaders, offering practical advice that actually works.
Through Groberri, Dale’s on a mission to improve people’s world's one workplace at a time.
David and Dale discuss the importance of HR in fostering a positive workplace culture, the challenges he faced in his career, and how personal struggles shaped his professional path. Dale emphasises the need for authentic leadership and community support for entrepreneurs, and he outlines his future aspirations for Groberri HR, including writing a book on simple leadership and creating a supportive online community for business owners.
Follow Dale:
Upcoming WorkshopFollow David / Via Nova here:
Feeling stuck in your career? Discover if it's time for a change! Take my quiz and explore your career potential today!
Chapters
0:00 Introduction to Dale Triffitt and His Journey
03:06 The Role of HR in Small Businesses
06:02 Early Work Experiences and Lessons Learned
12:14 Transitioning to Leadership Roles
18:08 Personal Challenges and Their Impact on Career
24:04 Innovative Approaches in Business and Leadership
29:59 The Shift to Entrepreneurship and Branding
37:00 Breaking Free: The Push to Change Careers
39:37 The Entrepreneurial Spark: Finding New Opportunities
41:53 Trusting Your Gut: Navigating Business Decisions
44:02 Authenticity in Business: Embracing Your Unique Path
46:20 Life-Changing Moments: The Impact of Personal Challenges
51:23 Reigniting Passion: Rediscovering Career Goals
56:49 Overcoming Adversity: The Journey to Sobriety
01:00:24 Taking Action: Launching Growberry
01:04:05 Building a Community: Supporting Everyday Entrepreneurs
01:07:56 Advice for the Stuck: Mapping Your Career Path
In this episode, I’m joined by Chris Fleet, founder and CEO of The Devon Clinic—a Torbay-based charity that puts people before profit. Chris shares his incredible journey from building sites, animal rescue, business owner to charity leader, revealing what it really takes to run a successful not-for-profit organisation in today’s world.
We talk entrepreneurship, which came to Chris at a young age, community impact, and the raw realities of leading charity in a tough environment. Chris also shares valuable advice for anyone starting or running a charity, NPO, or indeed any business ,and it’s gold for any founder looking to do more than just chase profit.
Plus, we spotlight The Devon Clinic’s upcoming Three Peaks Yorkshire Challenge in July, raising vital funds to support their mental health services across Torbay and how you can be part of this challenge and support the team.
Whether you're building a business, a charity or changing lives through in some other way, this one’s for you.
Follow Chris and the Team:
You can help support Chris and indeed contact the team for help using the following link:The Devon Clinic / 01803503000
You can find info about the Yorkshire Three Peaks here.
Get Help:
Follow David / Via Nova here:
Feeling stuck in your career? Discover if it's time for a change! Take my quiz and explore your career potential today!
In this episode, I speak to Tracey Clay, from Pivotal Partnerships, who shares her unique career journey from a traditional secretary to running her own consultancy. Once Tracey stepped into recruitment she never looked back.
Tracey discusses the evolution of work, the importance of flexibility in career transitions, and the changing dynamics of the workforce. She reflects on her decision to start her own business at 50, the challenges of being a solo entrepreneur, and the significance of building a supportive community.
Tracey emphasizes the need for individuals to take control of their careers and embrace change, while also highlighting the importance of self-reflection and personal development.
Tracey has led national talent strategies, and is a qualified and accredited coach with the Association for Coaching, an Emotional Intelligence Practitioner accredited with RocheMartin. The conversation was fantastic and a real insight. Thank you Tracey.Follow Tracey:Tracey Clay’s career is a brilliant example of how squiggly paths often lead to the most fulfilling work. From her early days in freight sales, retail training, and executive support roles, to coaching gymnasts in her spare time, she’s always had a knack for developing people – even before it became her profession.Tracey's LinkedInPivotal Partnership
Follow David / Via Nova here:
Feeling stuck in your career? Not sure if it's just that Monday feeling?
Discover if it's time for a change! Take my quiz and explore your career potential today!
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Career Journeys
01:10 Tracey's Early Career and Aspirations
09:07 Transitioning Through Life and Work
14:05 The Evolution of Work and Flexibility
16:24 Changing Perspectives on Career Paths
19:34 The Importance of Career Development
28:18 Starting a Business at 50
29:33 Navigating Change and Personal Growth
32:34 Embracing Entrepreneurship During Uncertain Times
36:54 The Vulnerability of Going Solo
40:18 Building a Supportive Network
43:48 Finding Freedom and Control in Business
49:12 Visualizing Success and Overcoming Doubts
