In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome Patrick Mazzocco, an academic whose PhD research dives deep into the motivations, experiences, and outcomes of career breaks. Having taken multiple career breaks himself, Patrick brings both academic insight and personal experience to the conversation. His work sheds light on the emotional journey of stepping away from work, the myths surrounding career breaks, and the evolving nature of career identity.
Our conversation explores the diverse reasons people step away from work, the gap between expectations and reality, and the importance of personal reflection in navigating these transitions. We also discuss the courage it takes to carve out your own path—especially in the face of societal pressures. Together, we explore:
The diverse experiences of career break takers—expectations, transformative moments, and the impact on identity.
The emotional highs and lows of career breaks, common myths, and the importance of redefining career identity.
Why identity crises are common during career breaks as individuals reassess their self-worth.
The surprising number of participants who found contentment in simply doing nothing.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Sabbatical Stories
01:30 Patrick's Transformative Career Breaks
05:24 Navigating Family Expectations and Pushback
11:27 Researching Career Breaks: A New Perspective
17:43 Understanding the Decision-Making Process
20:11 Debunking Myths About Career Breaks
21:55 Identity Crisis During Career Breaks
25:51 The Reality of Career Breaks
34:50 Exploring Career Identity
43:09 The Impact of Career Breaks on Identity
45:18 Debunking Myths About Career Breaks
Guest bio: Patrick Mazzocco is a doctoral candidate and Programmes Coordinator at the University of Otago, specialising in career transitions and career breaks. His PhD research explores the motivations, experiences, and outcomes of individuals who take career breaks without employer sponsorship or a guaranteed return to their previous roles.
Originally from Indianna, Patrick is an educator and career development professional with more than 10 years of experience and a strong history of success in programme development, curriculum design, and interdepartmental collaboration.
Connect with Patrick on LinkedIn
Get in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you. Buzz us a DM on Instagram - @Sabbatical_Stories or reach out on LinkedIn - Bex Thomas.
Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching:
As a career transition, sabbatical, and career break coach, I inspire, challenge, and support people like you to create a life that feels deeply aligned with your values, dreams, and authentic self.
Whether you’re craving a new direction, a chance to pause, or the courage to pursue what really matters, I’m here to guide you toward your own version of success on your terms.
Together, we’ll break free from societal blueprints, rewrite the rules, and design a future you’re excited to wake up to.
Learn more here
💫 Ready to make the most of your time away from work
Download my free guide, "5 Ways to Maximise Your Career Break", packed with practical tips and soulful insights to help you pause with purpose and return with clarity.
Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already on sabbatical, this is your essential companion.
👉 Grab your free copy here
With special thanks to:
Aunty B at the Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine.
Joanna Cooke, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:
Website - https://joannacooke.co.uk
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacooke
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/