• 45. Why I quit my highly successful business!
    Oct 31 2024

    If you’re thinking of making a career change then you’re in the right place. In each episode I chat to ordinary people who have made extraordinary career changes.

    I hope you enjoy this conversation and if you're feeling stuck in your career, let me help. I'm Yesim Nicholson and I work with people all over the world who have lost the joy in their work. Sometimes it will take a radical change to find work that feels meaningful to you. Other times it's small tweaks to your existing situation. Together we'll work out what's best for you!

    Connect with me

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

    🌍 https://www.yescareercoaching.com

    You can buy my book 'Ready to quit your job?' here -

    📚 https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CZJ857LW

    Start by asking yourself these 10 super powerful questions to help you discover your next career - https://www.yescareercoaching.com/10careerchangequestions


    Today's conversation:

    Oli Christie's Career Transformation: From Advertising to Gaming and Beyond

    In this episode, host Yesim Nicholson sits down with Oli Christie to explore his remarkable career evolution. Oli shares his journey from breaking into advertising as a copywriter to venturing into the dot com businesses and ultimately founding the successful mobile gaming company, Neon Play. He opens up about the challenges, risks, and emotional battles faced throughout his career transitions, including a significant shift in perspective during the COVID-19 lockdown. They discuss the psychological impacts of career identity, the resilience needed to overcome setbacks, and the pursuit of work-life balance through coaching. This engaging conversation dives deep into the importance of adaptability, self-awareness, and maintaining a personal mission statement for long-term fulfilment.

    00:00 Introduction to Oli Christie's Journey

    00:34 Early Career Struggles and Breakthroughs

    01:34 Transition to the Digital World

    03:00 Founding Neon Play

    03:29 Challenges and Successes at Neon Play

    04:21 Impact of COVID-19 and Career Reflections

    06:37 Decision to Move On and Start Coaching

    09:36 Planning and Executing the Career Change

    14:24 Redefining Success and Work-Life Balance

    17:30 Defining Professional and Personal Goals

    18:06 The Impact of COVID on Life Reflection

    18:32 Midlife Career Crossroads

    20:34 Taking Risks and Career Changes

    25:01 The Importance of Resilience

    30:11 Parenting and Building Resilience in Kids

    33:47 Final Thoughts and Encouragement


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    34 mins
  • 44. Thinking about freelancing? Make sure it’s right for you!
    Oct 4 2024

    Freelancing Success with 'Queen of Freelancers' Sarah Townsend: Tips & Insights Yesim Nicholson chats with Sarah Townsend, proclaimed the 'Queen of Freelancers,' about her 25 years of freelancing experience. They discuss Sarah's journey, her acclaimed book 'Survival Skills for Freelancers,' and the challenges and rewards of freelance life. Sarah shares her insights on productivity, managing work-life balance, and her progression from working at home to finding dynamic workspaces. The conversation also touches on self-publishing, the importance of community, and Sarah's passion for birdwatching. Tune in for inspiration and practical advice for anyone considering the freelancing path. 00:00 Introduction to Sarah Townsend, the 'Queen of Freelancers' 01:56 Sarah's Journey: 25 Years of Freelancing 05:43 Reflecting on the Evolution of Freelancing 07:35 Balancing Work and Personal Life 14:17 The Importance of Work Environment 20:53 Challenges and Realities of Freelancing 21:39 The Impact of COVID on Freelancing 23:18 Freelancer Support Group: A Lifeline During Lockdown 24:27 The Reality of Freelancing: Beyond the Dream 26:13 Handling Criticism and Rejection in Creative Work 30:08 The Joy of Birdwatching: A Personal Passion 33:02 Self-Publishing: Taking Control of Your Work 36:48 Defining Success: Personal Fulfilment Over Wealth 38:26 Balancing Work and Life as a Freelancer 40:13 Supporting the Next Generation of Writers 41:54 Final Thoughts and Resources for Aspiring Freelancers


    If you’re thinking of making a career change then you’re in the right place. In each episode I chat to ordinary people who have made extraordinary career changes. I hope you enjoy this conversation and if you're feeling stuck in your career, let me help. I'm Yesim Nicholson and I work with people all over the world who have lost the joy in their work. Sometimes it will take a radical change to find work that feels meaningful to you. Other times it's small tweaks to your existing situation. Together we'll work out what's best for you! Connect with me https://www.linkedin.com/in/yesimnicholson/ 🌍 https://www.yescareercoaching.com You can buy my book 'Ready to quit your job?' here - 📚 https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CZJ857LW Start by asking yourself these 10 super powerful questions to help you discover your next career - https://www.yescareercoaching.com/10careerchangequestions

    #careerchange #career #careeradvice #yourbigcareermove #freelancer #freelancing #selfemployed #entrepreneur

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    44 mins
  • 43: How Rabiah Coon balances Comedy with her Corporate Career
    Sep 14 2024

    In this episode, Yesim Nicholson interviews a guest who shares their unique journey of balancing a corporate IT job and a thriving side career in stand-up comedy. Rabiah reveals how she started performing comedy, the realities of 'bringer' gigs, the impact of friends' attendance, and how she navigates open mics. Together they discuss using humour as a connection tool, issues of self-image, and the bravery required to pursue stand-up. The conversation also delves into the guest's personal challenges, including dealing with self-doubt, body images, and the loss of a brother. They explore the differences between comedy scenes in the U.S. and the U.K., the quest for financial security, and the ongoing pursuit of her passion. The episode emphasizes the importance of following one's passions despite life's challenges, aiming to inspire others to do the same. 00:00 Introduction to Career Change Stories 00:27 Rabiah's Unique Career Path 01:38 Balancing Comedy and Friendships 02:51 The Challenges of Stand-Up Comedy 04:00 Finding Meaning in Comedy 05:48 Overcoming Personal Struggles 09:12 The Impact of Therapy and Self-Discovery 11:44 Pursuing Comedy Despite Setbacks 16:57 Transition to London and Comedy Scene Differences 25:17 Navigating the Comedy Industry 28:52 The Reality of Job Satisfaction 29:24 Pursuing Passion Projects 30:06 The Toe Dipper Concept 30:47 Encouraging Self-Worth Beyond Job Titles 33:16 Balancing Serious Work and Comedy 34:05 Living with Multiple Sclerosis 36:20 Finding Purpose Through Service 37:38 The Importance of Rest and Self-Care 39:42 Navigating Comedy and Family Memories 48:13 Challenges with Names and Identity 54:30 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations #careerchange #career #careeradvice #yourbigcareermove #comedy #standupcomedy #standupcomedian #funny


    Ready to quit your job?

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    56 mins
  • 42. Ugo Arinzeh: From US Banker to London Real Estate Entrepreneur
    Aug 27 2024

    If you’re thinking of making a career change then you’re in the right place. In each episode I chat to ordinary people who have made extraordinary career changes. I hope you enjoy this conversation and if you're feeling stuck in your career, let me help. I'm Yesim Nicholson and I work with people all over the world who have lost the joy in their work. Sometimes it will take a radical change to find work that feels meaningful to you. Other times it's small tweaks to your existing situation. Together we'll work out what's best for you! Connect with me https://www.linkedin.com/in/yesimnicholson/ 🌍 https://www.yescareercoaching.com


    You can buy my book 'Ready to quit your job?' here - 📚 https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CZJ857LW

    Start by asking yourself these 10 super powerful questions to help you discover your next career - https://www.yescareercoaching.com/10careerchangequestions In this episode of 'Your Big Career Move,' host Yesim Nicholson sits down with Ugo, a former real estate investment banker who transitioned from a corporate career in finance to running her own real estate advisory business in London. Ugo shares her journey from growing up in Nigeria, moving to the U.S., and ultimately finding her passion in buying, renovating, and managing properties. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of switching careers, the importance of resilience and adaptability, and how her mother’s entrepreneurial spirit inspired her to take risks. Ugo also highlights the role of social media and YouTube in particular in her business growth and the significance of empathy and understanding in helping international clients settle into their new homes. This conversation is a deep dive into the courage it takes to make a big career move and the fulfilment that comes from following one's true calling. 00:00 Introduction to Your Big Career Move 00:28 Meet Ugo: From Real Estate Banker to Interior Designer 03:47 The Big Move: Transitioning to London 05:14 Discovering a New Opportunity in London 08:29 Building a YouTube Presence 12:56 Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Self-Employment 16:54 Influence of Family and Cultural Background 23:31 Reflections on Success and Future Aspirations 35:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts #careerchange #career #careeradvice #yourbigcareermove

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    37 mins
  • 41. Mike Lane-Evans: Why Mike gave up his dream of being an actor
    Jul 16 2024

    From Actor to International Communication Coach: Mike Lane-Evans' Inspiring Career Change If you’re thinking of making a career change then you’re in the right place. In each episode I chat to ordinary people who have made extraordinary career changes. I hope you enjoy this conversation and if you're feeling stuck in your career, let me help. I'm Yesim Nicholson and I work with people all over the world who have lost the joy in their work. Sometimes it will take a radical change to find work that feels meaningful to you. Other times it's small tweaks to your existing situation. Together we'll work out what's best for you!

    Connect with me https://www.linkedin.com/in/yesimnicholson/ 🌍 https://www.yescareercoaching.com

    You can buy my book 'Ready to quit your job?' here - 📚 https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CZJ857LW Start by asking yourself these 10 super powerful questions to help you discover your next career - https://www.yescareercoaching.com/10careerchangequestions Today's episode In this episode of 'Your Big Career Move' host Yesim Nicholson chats with Mike Lane Evans, who transitioned from acting to communication coaching. Mike shares his unique career story from his early passion for acting to finding purpose in coaching. They discuss how acting formed Mike's foundational skills, the impact of COVID-19 on his career, and his transition's psychological aspects. This conversation delves into the purpose of work, the importance of adaptability, and practical advice for those considering career changes. Find out more about Mike’s coaching services here - https://www.forefront-coaching.com/ #careerchange #career #careeradvice #yourbigcareermove #acting #actor00:00 Introduction to Your Big Career Move 00:27 Mike Lane Evans: From Acting to Communication Coaching 00:55 Early Influences and Passion for Acting 03:58 Youth Theatre and Realizing Acting as a Career 06:04 The Reality of an Acting Career 06:41 COVID-19: A Catalyst for Change 07:42 Transitioning to Coaching 16:27 Building a Coaching Business 25:01 Balancing Work and Personal Life 29:14 Defining Success and Final Thoughts

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    32 mins
  • 40. Andreas Gschaider: My passion for football made me quit my job as a criminal detective
    Jun 6 2024

    From Police Officer to Startup CEO: Andreas' Inspiring Career Change Journey If you’re thinking of making a career change then you’re in the right place. In each episode I chat to ordinary people who have made extraordinary career changes. I hope you enjoy this conversation and if you're feeling stuck in your career, let me help. I'm Yesim Nicholson and I work with people all over the world who have lost the joy in their work. Sometimes it will take a radical change to find work that feels meaningful to you. Other times it's small tweaks to your existing situation. Together we'll work out what's best for you! Connect with me https://www.linkedin.com/in/yesimnicholson/ 🌍 https://www.yescareercoaching.com You can buy my book 'Ready to quit your job?' here - 📚 https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CZJ857LW Start by asking yourself these 10 super powerful questions to help you discover your next career - https://www.yescareercoaching.com/10careerchangequestions Today's episode Andreas, a former police officer transitioned into the world of startups. In this episode, he shares his 20-year career as a police officer and his journey into founding https://www.b-42.com/, a training platform for amateur football players and clubs. Hear about the influence of Simon Sinek and Gary Vaynerchuk on his career shift, the importance of empathy and leadership, and the challenges of balancing family life with entrepreneurial pursuits. Andreas' commitment to personal and professional growth, along with practical advice on transitioning careers, offers valuable insights for anyone considering a career change. 00:00 Welcome to Your Big Career Move! 00:26 Meet Andy: From Police Officer to Entrepreneur 02:53 The Spark for Change: Discovering a New Passion 06:51 Building a New Path: The Journey to B42 09:55 Embracing the Side Hustle: Steps Towards a Startup 15:51 The Power of Accountability and Support 21:25 Skills Transferred: From Law Enforcement to Leadership 22:15 Discovering Strengths and Overcoming Weaknesses 23:50 The Impact of Coaching on Personal Growth 25:17 Navigating the Challenges of Fundraising 25:56 The Burden and Responsibility of Raising Capital 27:06 Managing the Weight of Expectations 28:55 Vision for the Future: Impacting Soccer Training 30:37 Evolving Role: From CEO to Visionary 33:28 The Journey of Personal and Professional Growth 40:46 Redefining Success: Ownership of Time 45:13 Reflecting on the Journey and Future Aspirations https://www.youtube.com/@b42_official


    #careerchange #career #careeradvice #yourbigcareermove

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    43 mins
  • 39. Hector Stanley: How I quit my engineering career to co-found a start-up
    May 22 2024

    If you’re thinking of making a career change then you’re in the right place. In each episode I chat to ordinary people who have made extraordinary career changes. I hope you enjoy this conversation and if you're feeling stuck in your career, let me help. I'm Yesim Nicholson and I work with people all over the world who have lost the joy in their work. Sometimes it will take a radical change to find work that feels meaningful to you. Other times it's small tweaks to your existing situation. Together we'll work out what's best for you! Connect with me https://www.linkedin.com/in/yesimnicholson/ 🌍 https://www.yescareercoaching.com You can buy my book 'Ready to quit your job?' here - 📚 https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CZJ857LW Start by asking yourself these 10 super powerful questions to help you discover your next career - https://www.yescareercoaching.com/10careerchangequestions Today's episode In this episode of 'Your Big Career Move' host Yesim Nicholson discusses extraordinary career changes with guest Hector Stanley, who transitioned from civil engineering to tech entrepreneurship. They explore Hector's diverse career journey, the common thread of teamwork across his roles, and the impact of people-focused skills on his career transitions. Hector shares insights from his experiences, including the challenges of changing industries, the importance of adaptability, and his venture into founding a tech company, Ditto, focused on promoting employee secondments. This conversation delves into the personal reflections, decision-making processes, and the pursuit of making a positive impact through career choices. 00:00 Welcome to Your Big Career Move! 00:26 Meet Hector Stanley: From Construction to Tech Founder 01:37 The Common Thread: People and Team Building 03:38 Career Reflections and Embracing Change 04:47 Navigating Career Decisions and Peer Perspectives 08:38 Family Reactions and Winning Support 11:47 The Birth of Ditto: A Startup Journey 20:02 The Power of Secondments and Ditto's Mission 27:52 The Power of Personal Experience in Business 28:27 Navigating Secondments: A Guide for the Curious Employee 29:40 Ditto's Approach to Facilitating Secondments 31:57 The Role of a Chief Product Officer in a Startup 34:04 Balancing Innovation with Focus in Startup Growth 37:48 Reflecting on the Startup Journey: Lessons and Regrets 39:02 The Impact of Family Values on Business and Life 48:13 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Just Go For It Find out more about Hector’s company here - https://www.dittotalent.com/ Find out more about the Antler Incubator here - https://www.antler.co/ #careerchange #career #careeradvice #yourbigcareermove

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    47 mins
  • 38. Angela Ashill: From Crafting to Space Blankets - Angela's Unconventional Career Leap
    May 9 2024

    If you’re thinking of making a career change then you’re in the right place. In each episode I chat to ordinary people who have made extraordinary career changes. I hope you enjoy this conversation and if you're feeling stuck in your career, let me help. I'm Yesim Nicholson and I work with people all over the world who have lost the joy in their work. Sometimes it will take a radical change to find work that feels meaningful to you. Other times it's small tweaks to your existing situation. Together we'll work out what's best for you! Connect with me https://www.linkedin.com/in/yesimnicholson/ 🌍 https://www.yescareercoaching.com You can buy my book 'Ready to quit your job?' here - 📚 https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CZJ857LW Start by asking yourself these 10 super powerful questions to help you discover your next career - https://www.yescareercoaching.com/10careerchangequestions Today’s episode In this podcast episode of 'Your Big Career Move', host Yesim Nicholson interviews Angela Ashill, a former crafter turned space industry technician, who shares her inspiring journey of making a dramatic career change. Angela worked in her home-based business selling handmade crafts until she saw an opportunity for a job at RAL Space, despite not having a traditional engineering background. Her story highlights the importance of lateral thinking in job recruitment, the value of recognising transferable skills, and the courage to pursue opportunities outside one's comfort zone. Angela's experience from participating in a television quiz show, 'The Chase', and her process transitioning back into the workforce after 19 years, illustrates how varied experiences can contribute to personal growth and unexpected career paths. This episode encourages listeners to reconsider their skill sets and the potential for career changes regardless of their background. 00:00 Welcome to Your Big Career Move! 00:56 Discovering Angela's Viral Moment and Career Shift 02:13 Angela's Journey from Crafting to Space Technology 04:33 The Transition: From Crafting to a Career in Space 06:33 The Unconventional Path to a Technical Role 08:35 Challenges and Triumphs in a New Field 17:08 Embracing New Skills and Overcoming Doubts 20:18 Navigating Workplace Dynamics as a Non-Engineer 22:13 Empowering Career Advice: Taking the Leap 23:02 The Value of Experience and Work Ethic 24:01 Interviewing Your Potential Employer 25:28 The Importance of Self-Value in Job Applications 26:06 A Unique Career Journey: From Engineering to TV Stardom 27:04 The Unexpected Viral Fame from The Chase 32:32 Redefining Success Through Life's Stages 34:55 Contemplating Retirement and Embracing Life's Unpredictability 37:11 Inspiring Others with a Unique Career Path #careerchange #career #careeradvice #yourbigcareermove

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    35 mins