138: Exploring Independent Work in Mid-Career
Wed Jan 28 2026
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 mark@bravocoaching.co.uk
visit www.bravocoaching.co.uk
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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 mark@bravocoaching.co.uk visit www.bravocoaching.co.uk