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In this episode of Mid Career Change, I’m joined by Michael Tabirade for a thoughtful conversation about what happens when a familiar career path no longer fits in the same way.  Michael spent many years in senior public sector leadership roles, working on large-scale transformation programmes across health and government, before moving towards more independent, portfolio-style work. We talk about the identity shift that often comes with leaving big roles, the mindset changes involved in stepping away from employment, and how to begin exploring independent ways of working without rushing or burning out. This episode is for anyone in mid-career who’s quietly questioning whether there might be a different way to work – one that offers more autonomy, balance, and alignment with what matters now. We explore: ·     The emotional reality of stepping away from established roles ·     Letting go of titles and rebuilding professional identity ·     Designing a portfolio-style working life that supports wellbeing ·     Common blind spots when moving towards independent work ·     Simple, practical first steps you can take while things are still unclear If you’re feeling curious rather than certain, and drawn to change without wanting to make a dramatic leap, this conversation will give you space to think – and permission to start gently. Michael's YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@michaeltabirade?si=8umywRtGuktLp4Sl Connect with Michael on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeltabirade/ Thanks for listening! If you need support with your career: call me on 07833 593875 email [email protected] visit www.bravocoaching.co.uk

In this episode of the Mid-Career Change podcast, I explore three gentle signs that something in your working life might be asking for attention — and what those signs are really telling you. January is often a moment of clarity. With a bit more distance from your usual routines, you start to notice things you might have brushed aside during a busy year. But recognising these signs doesn’t mean you need to make a big career change. More often, they’re early signals worth listening to — hints that something wants to grow, shift, or come into focus. In this short, reflective episode, I share three of the most common signs I see in my coaching work: • Something feels “off” — a sense that a task, expectation, or part of your role is no longer in step with who you are. • You’re craving more energy or meaning — noticing where you feel most alive in your work, and where you don’t. • You’re imagining other futures — those small, curious “what if?” questions that surface when your identity is starting to stretch. For each sign, I offer a simple writing prompt from my new 30-day course, Write Your Career, to help you interpret what the sign is pointing toward. These questions aren’t about pressure or dramatic decisions. They’re about clarity — about hearing yourself more clearly and reconnecting with what matters. Whether you’re feeling stuck, quietly restless, or simply sensing that something in your working life might need attention, this episode gives you a gentle, practical way to explore what’s going on beneath the surface. And if you’d like to work through these prompts more deeply, the Write Your Career course is available now at the January launch price of £49, with or without one-to-one coaching. Thanks for listening! If you need support with your career: call me on 07833 593875 email [email protected] visit www.bravocoaching.co.uk

In this episode, we’re looking ahead to 2026 and what the new year will bring. I share an update on the projects I’m most excited about — including the publication of my new book, Write Your Career, which launches in April, and the fully-developed 30-day Write Your Career course, now available at a special January price. I talk through what’s changed, what’s improved, and how the course and book fit together to support anyone wanting more clarity, direction, or momentum at the start of the year. I also explain the new coaching-supported option, designed to give people more structure and guidance as they work through the material. To finish, there’s a short Coaching Moment focused on the value of simply getting started — why small beginnings often matter more than big plans, and how you can use that idea to shape your next steps in 2026. If you’d like to explore the course or coaching options, you’ll find everything at www.bravocoaching.co.uk Thanks for listening! If you need support with your career: call me on 07833 593875 email [email protected] visit www.bravocoaching.co.uk

As we reach the end of the year, this episode is a chance to pause and look back at what 2025 has brought. It’s been a year of milestones for me — from publishing Mid-Career Change in January, to celebrating five years of the podcast, to running the pilot for my new Write Your Career course. I share what I learned from launching the book, the conversations that stood out on the podcast this year, and how the show has continued to grow in both listeners and engagement. I also talk about what the pilot group taught me about the Write Your Career course, and how their feedback has shaped the full version launching in January. To round off the episode, I guide you through a short Coaching Moment using the Highlight Reel technique — a simple exercise to help you capture three meaningful moments from your year and recognise what they reveal about your strengths. If you’d like support with your career planning as we head into 2026, you can find details about my coaching and courses at www.bravocoaching.co.uk . Thanks for listening! If you need support with your career: call me on 07833 593875 email [email protected] visit www.bravocoaching.co.uk

In this episode, I’m joined by Career and Leadership Transitions Specialist Suzanne Penny, who brings more than 20 years of experience in outplacement, recruitment and people development — along with her own lived experience of redundancy and reinvention. Suzanne and I first spoke back in 2023 for the Association for Coaching podcast, and so much has evolved for both of us since then. Today we reconnect to explore the realities of mid-career change: the moments that shake your confidence, the small steps that make the biggest difference, and why no one should navigate transition alone. We talk about the emotional impact of redundancy, what really helps people rebuild clarity and confidence, and the practical ways to move forward when you’re feeling misaligned or unsure. Suzanne also shares powerful stories of clients she’s supported — including members of her new community space, created to take the loneliness out of redundancy. Together, we explore themes of wellbeing, resilience, and the importance of pausing before rushing into what’s next. We also dig into the rise of purpose-driven work, the changing world of hybrid careers, and how mid-career professionals can leverage their experience, strengths and values to shape a meaningful next chapter. Whether you’re going through change yourself or supporting others through it, this conversation offers reassurance, perspective and plenty of practical ideas. Suzanne’s message is clear: you’re not starting from scratch — you’re starting from experience. If you’re navigating uncertainty, wondering what’s next, or craving a sense of community during transition, this one’s for you. https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzannepennyexecutivecoach/ https://www.suzannepenny.com/ Thanks for listening! If you need support with your career: call me on 07833 593875 email [email protected] visit www.bravocoaching.co.uk

Confidence can feel fragile during times of change — especially when you’re between chapters in your career. In this episode, I explore how to rebuild a steadier, more enduring form of confidence: the kind that comes from alignment, self-trust, and quiet action. Drawing on recent coaching conversations, I share how many mid-career professionals lose confidence not because their ability fades, but because the familiar structures that once supported them — job titles, recognition, belonging — start to shift. Confidence doesn’t vanish; it simply takes on a new form as you step into what’s next. I offer practical ways to reconnect with your strengths, align your work with your core values, and take small, deliberate steps that rebuild momentum. I also look at the link between confidence and fear — and why feeling fear isn’t a sign you’re not ready, but a signal that you’re stretching into something meaningful. Whether you’re exploring new options, facing redundancy, or simply feeling ready for change, this episode offers calm, realistic guidance for rediscovering confidence that lasts — not the loud kind that demands attention, but the quiet kind that carries you forward. Thanks for listening! If you need support with your career: call me on 07833 593875 email [email protected] visit www.bravocoaching.co.uk

Mid-career change can open the door to fresh possibilities, but it can also bring pressure, uncertainty and moments where clarity feels out of reach. In this episode, I’m joined by Nina Stephenson-Camps, founder of Thrive Always, to explore how we can stay grounded and think clearly during times of transition. Nina specialises in what she calls real-time resilience — simple, practical mindset tools you can use right in the moment when stress rises or your confidence wobbles. Drawing on her experience working with global brands like Google and Microsoft, she shares how people can steady themselves mid-meeting, mid-decision or mid-change without losing momentum. We talk about the pressures many mid-career professionals face, including identity shifts, self-doubt, and the mental overload that comes with exploring new directions. Nina introduces techniques such as the one-minute breathing reset, thought reframing and compassionate pausing, helping you bring calm and clarity back into the moments that matter. We also look at how stress blocks creativity — and how a more settled mindset can help you open up new career possibilities. If you’re navigating a change, feeling stretched, or simply wanting practical ways to think more clearly under pressure, this episode offers grounded tools you can use straight away. https://www.thrive-always.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/ninastephensoncamps/ Thanks for listening! If you need support with your career: call me on 07833 593875 email [email protected] visit www.bravocoaching.co.uk

This episode marks a special milestone — five years since I launched the podcast back in November 2020. What began as a small experiment during uncertain times has grown into something much bigger: a space for real conversations, practical guidance, and inspiration for anyone navigating their career at mid-life. In this anniversary episode, I’m reflecting on the journey so far, what I’ve learned, and the insights that have come from over 100 episodes and 40+ guest interviews. Here’s what you can expect in today’s show: Lessons from five years of podcasting — from the importance of consistency, to how conversations can shape and change us, to the surprising ways podcasting has helped me develop my voice and write my first book.Five big career insights — the themes that come up again and again in coaching, interviews, and listener stories. These include why clarity comes from action, the hidden power of your network, and why confidence isn’t something you’re born with but something you build.Pathways through the podcast — how I’ve grouped episodes into themes like Taking Stock, Unlocking Career Potential, and Navigating Mid-Career Change, so you can easily find what’s most useful for you.What’s next — my plans for the podcast, my upcoming book Write Your Career, and how the themes of journalling, reflection, and practical action are shaping the next stage of my work.Five years in, the podcast is reaching more listeners than ever before, and I want to thank you for being part of that journey. Whether you’ve listened since Episode 1 or only recently discovered the show, I hope this anniversary reflection inspires you to think about your own career path — and what might be next for you. Thanks for listening! If you need support with your career: call me on 07833 593875 email [email protected] visit www.bravocoaching.co.uk

What if just a few minutes with a pen could change how you see your career? In this episode, I share one of my favourite journaling tools: the Career Highlight Reel. The idea is simple—write down the moments when you’ve felt most alive, proud, or energised in your work. They might be big achievements or small everyday wins, but when you capture them, patterns and strengths start to appear. I first tried this when I was feeling stuck, and it gave me clarity about the kind of work that brought me energy—and the confidence to take new steps. I now use it with clients, and it consistently helps them reconnect with what they do best. Whether you’re exploring a change, growing in your current role, or just needing a boost, the Highlight Reel is a powerful way to see your career differently. Grab a pen and try it for yourself. Thanks for listening! If you need support with your career: call me on 07833 593875 email [email protected] visit www.bravocoaching.co.uk

Being laid off is one of the hardest experiences a professional can face. It’s not just about losing a job or a paycheck — it’s about losing stability, identity, and a sense of direction. The shock can feel overwhelming, and the emotions that follow often mirror the stages of grief. In this episode of Mid Career Change, I sit down with Steve Jaffe, author of The Layoff Journey: From Dismissal to Discovery. Over a 25-year career in advertising and marketing, Steve experienced four layoffs. Each time, he had to face the emotions head-on: denial, pain, negotiation, depression, and eventually acceptance, reconstruction, and renewal. His new book offers a compassionate and practical roadmap through these stages, helping people move from setback to possibility. We talk about why layoffs strike so deeply at our sense of self, why it’s normal to feel anger or shame, and how to begin regaining confidence when the ground beneath you feels uncertain. Steve shares powerful insights from his own story, including how he reframed each layoff as a reset button — an opportunity to reflect on what mattered most and to reimagine the future. What I especially valued in this conversation is Steve’s mix of empathy and practical wisdom. He reminds us that while job loss is painful, it doesn’t define us. He offers strategies for coping with the immediate shock, protecting your self-worth, and taking the first steps towards renewal. And he makes the case that, even in the messy middle of transition, there is always the possibility of growth. If you’ve been laid off, are supporting someone who has, or simply want to build resilience in uncertain times, this episode will give you both comfort and direction. 🔗 You can find Steve’s book and learn more about his work at thestevejaffe.com Thanks for listening! If you need support with your career: call me on 07833 593875 email [email protected] visit www.bravocoaching.co.uk

What if just five words could change the way you see your career? In this solo episode, I share the surprising power of writing as a tool for clarity, confidence, and change. I talk about how I first stumbled upon journalling during my own career crossroads, and how it became a steady companion—helping me make sense of setbacks, notice hidden patterns, and take bolder steps forward. Over time, I began introducing these techniques to my coaching clients and saw the same powerful results. I’ll also take you behind the scenes of some of the writers and thinkers who have shaped my approach, including The Great Book of Journaling, Mark Levy’s Accidental Genius, Alison Jones on exploratory writing, Nancy Kline’s Time to Think, Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way, and Elizabeth Gilbert’s Big Magic. Alongside my next book, Write Your Career (publishing April 2026), I’ve created a 30-day journalling course—and in this episode, I invite you to join the pilot version for free. And stay tuned until the end, when I’ll guide you through a short but powerful exercise: the “Five-Word Future.” In just a minute, you’ll write down the five words that capture the career you truly want—and discover how writing can open the door to new clarity. 👉 Sign up for the free pilot course at bravocoaching.co.uk/write-your-career-30-day-course using coupon code PILOT25. Thanks for listening! If you need support with your career: call me on 07833 593875 email [email protected] visit www.bravocoaching.co.uk

In this episode of Mid-Career Change, I’m joined by Josh Fineman — coach, facilitator, and founder of beMoreMensch, a movement helping men reconnect with purpose, belonging, and personal growth. Josh shares his powerful mid-career story, from working in finance and running a creative agency to hitting a personal crossroads that changed everything. We talk about what happens when life on the outside looks fine, but inside, something’s missing — a familiar feeling for many in their 30s and 40s. We explore why this stage of life can feel especially challenging for men, how a sense of community often disappears in adulthood, and why encouragement and belief are often the two things men need most — but rarely ask for. Josh also explains how group work, honest conversation, and small consistent changes lead to genuine transformation — not flashy reinventions, but subtle shifts that help men show up more fully in work, relationships, and life. We also discuss journalling as a tool for clarity — how a simple daily writing practice can reconnect you with your values and intentions. If you’re feeling stuck or disconnected in your mid-career chapter, this episode offers thoughtful insight, relatable stories, and practical next steps. Connect with Josh Fineman: Website: bemoremensch.comEmail: [email protected] for listening! If you need support with your career: call me on 07833 593875 email [email protected] visit www.bravocoaching.co.uk

When it comes to mid-career change, most of us start by thinking about our CV, job title, or LinkedIn profile. But often, the real barriers aren’t out there—they’re in here. In this solo episode, I explore the inner game of career change: the doubts, fears, and identity questions that so often keep us stuck—even when we know we want something more. You’ll hear about the kinds of internal resistance I see in coaching sessions all the time: fear of regret, feeling like you’re walking away from part of who you are, and the quiet dread that says, “What if I’m not good enough to make a change?” But this episode isn’t just about recognising those blocks—it’s about coaching yourself through them. I’ll share three practical coaching tools you can use to move forward with more clarity and confidence: A question that helps you cut through surface confusionAn exercise to connect with your wiser, future selfAnd a strategy to take small, low-risk steps toward something newIf you’re feeling unsettled in your current role, or stuck between where you are and where you might want to be—this episode is for you. You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to be willing to look a little deeper—and take one small step forward. — To explore these tools further, check out my book Mid-Career Change or visit bravocoaching.co.uk for free guides and coaching support. Thanks for listening! If you need support with your career: call me on 07833 593875 email [email protected] visit www.bravocoaching.co.uk

What happens when the life you’ve built no longer fits who you’ve become? In this episode, I’m joined by Lindsey Hall—divorce and intimacy coach, and former senior finance professional—who shares her powerful story of personal and professional reinvention. After a decade in corporate accounting, Lindsey faced a series of life changes that led her to question everything—from her career to her sense of self. Together we explore how to navigate emotional transitions like divorce, co-parenting and burnout—while staying grounded in your values. Lindsey shares practical strategies for setting boundaries, rebuilding confidence, and reconnecting with the parts of yourself that often get lost in the noise of mid-career life. Whether you’re feeling stuck, stretched too thin, or sensing it’s time for a change, this conversation offers encouragement, insight and next steps. Thanks for listening! If you need support with your career: call me on 07833 593875 email [email protected] visit www.bravocoaching.co.uk

Have you ever had that quiet, unsettling feeling that your role no longer fits? Like you're still showing up, doing the job—but something inside has shifted? In this solo episode, I explore the subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs that you might have outgrown your role. I share a personal story from an industry awards dinner that made me realise I no longer belonged in the world I once felt part of. From there, we look at five key signs that often show up when it’s time for change—whether it’s feeling underused, disconnected from purpose, or quietly dreading Monday mornings. This isn’t about making a sudden leap. It’s about paying attention to the signals, following your curiosity, and starting to explore what might come next. I’ll also share three practical things you can do if any of this resonates—including how to get hold of my free Should I Stay or Should I Go? guide. Whether you’re at the start of this feeling or deep in the middle of it, this episode is here to help you reflect, reconnect, and take a step forward. Thanks for listening! If you need support with your career: call me on 07833 593875 email [email protected] visit www.bravocoaching.co.uk