The Corporate Escapists Podcast

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204

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Aug 2026

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About the show

Welcome to The Corporate Escapists, a platform dedicated to helping individuals navigate the transition from corporate life to entrepreneurship. Our host, Christine Innes, is an international best-selling author, coach, and entrepreneur who brings in experts from around the world to share their insights and inspirational stories on mindset, innovation, leadership, entrepreneurship, lifestyle, and more. We believe that it's never too late to follow your passion and create the life and business of your dreams. visit us at www.thecorporateescapists.com #thecorporateescapists

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September 9, 202638 min

Why Women Fall for "Potential" Not Reality | Relationship Advice with Vilma Putt

What does it actually take to build a relationship that lasts a lifetime? In this episode of The Corporate Escapists, Christine sits down with relationship therapist, counsellor and coach Vilma Putt to unpack honest, practical relationship advice for couples navigating real life — not just the highlight reel. Vilma has been married to her high-school sweetheart Matt for over 31 years, and as the founder of Laleo Counselling & Coaching, she's spent her career helping couples move from conflict to connection. In this conversation, she shares why lasting relationships aren't built by chance but by intentional choices, and why treating your partner as a teammate — not an adversary — changes everything. We cover:✔️ Why maintaining your own self-worth is the foundation of a healthy relationship✔️ How to have honest conversations with your partner, even in hard seasons✔️ Why relationships take constant effort — and what "choosing to be your best self" really looks like day to day✔️ How couples can shift from a conflict mindset to a team mindset✔️ Why women often see a man's potential instead of accepting where he's at — and how to encourage growth without asking someone to change who they are✔️ Book recommendations: Fascinating Womanhood and Man of Steel and Velvet✔️ Vilma's upcoming relationship seminar with Creative Hearts Co on September 29th, where she'll share 11 relationship processes she and her husband have developed over their marriage 👤 ABOUT VILMA PUTTVilma Putt is a Lover of Life, relationship therapist, counsellor and coach, speaker, wife, and mama to four adult children (and a grandmama too!). She's passionate about helping people build deeper connection with God, themselves, and others — both romantic and platonic. As founder of Laleo Counselling & Coaching, Vilma helps individuals and couples navigate relationships with greater understanding, authenticity and love. 🔗 CONNECT WITH VILMAWebsite: https://laleo.com.au Instagram: https://instagram.com/vilma_putt

September 2, 2026Episode 20729 min

Leadership, Confidence, and Purpose with Jon Sheldon

What does leadership look like when it's built on Stoic calm and radical honesty instead of buzzwords? This week, Christine sits down with Jon Sheldon, founder and head coach of Belleauwood Coaching, to unpack how leadership has evolved — and where it's gone wrong. A former Marine Infantry squad leader who served at the height of the Iraq war, and later a Fortune 500 sales executive, Jon now coaches high-performers — sales professionals, real estate agents, financial advisors, and business owners — to lead with authenticity and operate in alignment. In this conversation, Christine and Jon dig into the overcorrection toward empathetic leadership that can cost teams directional trust, why authentic leadership means building your own methodology instead of borrowing someone else's, and why confidence — not knowledge or talkativeness — is what people actually follow in a crisis. You'll learn: Why leadership has quietly overcorrected toward empathy at the cost of direction How to build a personal performance blueprint around purpose, vision, ecosystem, and motivators Why vision (not profit) should be your main decision filter How to curate your "ecosystem" — people, technology, systems, and social media Why solopreneurs and non-managers still need leadership skills What it really means to be a "pillar" in the room Plus, Jon shares his motivational quote, book and podcast recommendations, and who he thinks should come on the show next. Connect with Jon Sheldon: Website: www.belleauwood.coach Instagram: @Belleauwood_coaching

August 26, 202623 min

Events That Build Authority: Event Planning for Entrepreneurs with Jo Speh

In a world where online interactions feel increasingly diluted by AI and fake content, in-person events have become one of the most powerful ways to build real trust and authority. This week, Christine talks with Jo Spehr, Founder and Director of Empire Events, about what it actually takes to plan and run a world-class event. Jo works with 6, 7, and 8-figure entrepreneurs to deliver experiences that build authority, deepen connection, and accelerate business growth — from intimate retreats in Bali to Dream Fest, an 800-person, three-day entrepreneur event. She breaks down why events are marketing tools first and profit generators second, why your business foundations need to be solid before you ever book a venue, and what six months of preparation actually looks like behind the scenes. You'll learn: Why in-person events matter more than ever in an AI-saturated world The real time, cost, and emotional investment behind running an event How to define clear intentions and objectives before you plan anything Why events should amplify what's already working in your business, not fix what's broken What separates first-time event organizers from seasoned pros Lessons from running Dream Fest (800 entrepreneurs, 3 days) and intimate Bali retreats Plus, Jo shares her go-to mantra ("if you don't know, find out"), her surprising relaxation read (romance novels), and who she thinks Christine should have on the show next. Connect with Jo Spehr: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jojo_spehr More: https://msha.ke/theempireevents

August 19, 2026Episode 20529 min

From Manager to Leader: The Authority Shift with Shirley Sutton

What separates a manager from a leader? This week, Christine sits down with Shirley Sutton — a Sydney-based leadership coach and People & Culture expert — to bust the biggest myth in leadership: that you need to have all the answers. Shirley is the creator of the Managers to Leaders program and the Authority Shift method, which has helped countless high performers stop waiting to be recognized and start leading with confidence. In this conversation, Christine and Shirley dig into what authentic leadership actually looks like, how to navigate the awkward shift from colleague to manager, why personal branding matters even if you don't manage a single person, and how to figure out your own communication style using tools like DISC. You'll learn how to: Tell the difference between managing and leading Make the "authority shift" when you're promoted Delegate without losing your team's trust Communicate in a way that actually lands with different personality types Build a personal brand that supports your leadership goals Plus, Shirley shares her favorite mantra ("there's no such thing as failure, just feedback") and her go-to recommendations for anyone building a career — or a business — on their own terms. Connect with Shirley Sutton: Website: www.ascendly.online LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shirleysutton/

August 5, 202626 min

From Navy Veteran to Buyer's Agent: Angela Crawford on Rebuilding After Divorce EP 204

After 18 years in the Royal Australian Navy, Angela Crawford found herself starting over — a full-time single mum at 40, navigating divorce and family court with no roadmap. In this episode, Angela shares how she turned that rebuild into Oasis Buyer's Agent, a business built on helping women achieve financial independence through property and education.Christine and Angela talk about what it really takes to leave a structured career and build something of your own: the self-doubt, the hustle to land a first client, learning marketing and social media from scratch, and eventually growing into public speaking and personal development work. Angela also breaks down what a buyer's agent actually does — from understanding a family's real needs to negotiating price and managing inspections remotely — and why she's especially passionate about helping women who often get left out of investing conversations.If you've ever felt like you're waiting for permission to make a big change, this conversation is for you.About Angela CrawfordAngela Crawford is the founder of Oasis Buyer's Agent and a passionate advocate for women building financial independence through education and property. After 18 years in the Royal Australian Navy and a grueling divorce, she rebuilt her life from scratch as a full-time single mum at 40 with no roadmap or safety net. Angela believes there's no silly question except the one you don't ask, because you don't know what you don't know. Her mission is to educate, advocate, and empower women to create long-term financial freedom on their own terms.Connect with Angela:Website: www.oasisbuyersagent.com.auFacebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578960506183GET THE LATEST ISSUE OF THE MAGAZINE NOW:https://www.thecorporateescapists.com/i-n-s-p-i-r-e-magazine/🔥 Meet Your Host, Christine Innes – the Visibility Queen behind The Corporate Escapists.6× #1 International Bestselling Author, Editor, TV Show & Podcast Host, Speaker, and Educator.Once a high-flying corporate queen, I had the title, the salary, the lifestyle… but felt completely dead inside. Hitting rock bottom forced me to face the truth: I didn’t know who I really was. Through years of inner work, I rebuilt my life and designed a business that lights me up — and now I help others do the same.Today, I show entrepreneurs, leaders, and changemakers how to use their story to build visibility, attract more clients, and create a legacy that matters.✨ Follow me for daily inspiration and strategies to escape the ordinary, share your story with confidence, and finally be SEEN.👉 Join my world:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christineinnescoachInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/christine_innes/Community: https://bit.ly/theescapeeclub

July 8, 202617 min

Raising Confident Teens & Running Two Businesses | Olivia Doyle | Episode 203

What does it really take to raise a confident, self-assured teen in a world of social media pressure, identity confusion, and constant comparison? In this episode, Christine sits down with Olivia Doyle — self-worth and personal growth coach for teens and tweens, and founder of two purpose-driven businesses — to explore what it means to help young people discover their worth before the world tries to define it for them. Olivia is the owner of Coco Shore, a vegan and organic skincare brand built on body positivity and self-care, and Lotus New Beginnings, where she coaches teens and tweens through some of the most formative years of their lives. Her approach isn't just about confidence tips — it's about creating a ripple effect that transforms not only the teens she works with, but their families, friendships, and futures. This is a conversation every parent, educator, and anyone who cares about the next generation needs to hear. In This Episode We Cover What self-worth coaching for teens actually looks like in practice *How social media is making identity development harder for young people — and what we can do about it *The ripple effect: why investing in a teen's self-worth impacts the whole family *Olivia's personal story — and how her own experience of having power taken away drove her to protect others *How Olivia juggles running two very different businesses (and why she wouldn't have it any other way) *The moment everything "clicks" for a teen in the program — and how it changes their trajectory *Olivia's vision for bringing self-worth programs into schools *How to start the conversation with your teen about coaching (even if you're nervous to bring it up) *Practical techniques for parents: subtle ways to open dialogue with teens who shut down *What's coming up: Olivia's International Self-Care Day workshop (July 25) and her 10-week teen self-worth program Key Takeaways For parents: You don't need to have all the answers. Starting a gentle, low-pressure conversation — and being comfortable with awkward silences — is enough to open the door. For teens: Your worth isn't something you earn. It already exists. For aspiring business owners: Perseverance is everything. If it's truly what you want, you'll find a way to make it work. About Our Guest — Olivia Doyle Olivia Doyle is a Self-Worth and Personal Growth Coach who helps teens and young adults navigate life's challenges, strengthen their self-worth, and create a kinder relationship with themselves. Through coaching, workshops, and community events, Olivia works to ensure that every young person knows their worth — not as something to be earned, but as something that already exists within them. She is also the founder of Coco Shore, a vegan and organic skincare brand centred on body positivity and genuine self-care. Connect with Olivia: 🌐 Website: www.thelotusnewbeginnings.com.au 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/thelotusnewbeginnings 🌐 Website: https://cocoshore.com.au/ Upcoming Events with Olivia 📅 July 25 — International Self-Care Day Workshop (in-person) 📅 10-Week Teen Self-Worth Program — enrol via www.thelotusnewbeginnings.com.au GET THE LATEST ISSUE OF THE MAGAZINE NOW: https://www.thecorporateescapists.com/i-n-s-p-i-r-e-magazine/ The content shared in this episode is for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by our guest are their own and do not constitute professional medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice. If you or your teen are experiencing significant mental health challenges, please seek support from a qualified health professional. The Corporate Escapists podcast is not responsible for any actions taken based on the information shared in this episode.

June 3, 202635 min

From Zara to Handmade Jewellery: Lee Li on Personal Branding, Visibility & Building a Legacy

How to use personal branding and visibility to grow your business — and leave a legacy that matters. In this episode, we sit down with Lee Li , founder of Leeli & Co (a global design, sourcing, and consultancy company partnering with brands like Target and Zara) and Leeli Design (her statement handmade jewellery brand). Lee shares her journey of building two thriving businesses on her own terms — and why visibility isn't just a marketing strategy, it's a mindset. 🔑 In this episode we cover: Why personal branding is one of the most powerful tools for business growth How to become more intentional about visibility (even if it feels uncomfortable) The role of awards, networking, and relationships in building credibility Lee's inspiring plans to launch an accessible fashion range for people with mobility challenges Why you should never wait to start your business — and the importance of a separate income stream when you do The "fail forwards" mindset and lessons from Richard Branson's Like a Virgin

May 20, 202633 min

He Lost Everything… Then Rebuilt His Life From Scratch | Abdul Rababeh EP 201

💫 In This Episode, We Explore: Why so many men struggle in silence (and the impact of the “man ego”) The hidden challenges men face after divorce, loss, and life transitions How identity loss can become the catalyst for transformation The gap between knowing what to do… and actually doing it How men can rebuild purpose, direction, and self-worth The ripple effect of men doing the inner work — especially on their children and families Abdul’s personal journey through breakdown, hospitalization, and starting over The power of gratitude, self-love, and changing internal dialogue Why comparing yourself to your future self is the key to growth How The Resilience Project X is helping men globally reclaim their lives

May 6, 202638 min

Why You Feel Disconnected From Yourself (And How to Find Your Way Back) | Lorraine Enright EP 200

💫 In This Episode, We Explore: What “soul identity” really means and why so many women feel disconnected from themselves How conditioning and life experiences shape — and sometimes distort — your identity The difference between building an identity vs recalibrating back to your truth Why high-achieving women often feel unfulfilled despite success How to reconnect with your intuition and inner guidance The role of faith, trust, and self-belief in personal transformation Lorraine’s personal healing journey and how it led her to this work Why your story — even the painful parts — holds the key to your purpose The importance of taking aligned action, even when it doesn’t make logical sense You don’t need to become someone new…You need to remember who you already are. Because your power isn’t something you earn —it’s something you return to.

April 29, 202626 min

Why Successful Women Are Struggling to Find Love (And What To Do Instead) | Tracey Korman - EP 199

💫 In This Episode, We Explore: How global uncertainty is shaping modern dating and relationships Why successful, independent women often struggle to define what they truly want in a partner The rise of value-based dating and emotional alignment Why younger generations are delaying marriage and redefining love The truth about dating apps vs professional matchmaking How to know if you are emotionally ready to date again Breaking toxic dating patterns and attracting aligned relationships The role of confidence, self-worth, and coaching in finding love Why community and environment matter more than ever in relationships You don’t need more options…You need more alignment. 💡 Key Takeaway Because the right relationship doesn’t come from chasing —it comes from knowing who you are, what you value, and being emotionally available to receive it.