How to Use a Side Project to Break Career Stagnation

In this episode of Mid-Career Moves, Lucas and Luna explore how a side project can be a powerful tool to break career stagnation in your 40s. They discuss the story of a mid-level marketing manager at a Fortune 500 consumer goods company who, feeling stuck after 15 years, launched a niche newsletter about sustainable packaging. The project not only reignited his passion but also led to a promotion and a company-wide sustainability initiative. Lucas breaks down the three strategic rules: choose a project adjacent to your industry but not your day-to-day, set a 90-day MVP timeline, and leverage the output for internal visibility. Luna adds insights on common pitfalls and how to pitch the project to your boss without sounding like you're slacking. They also touch on the psychological benefits of regaining autonomy and momentum. Recorded June 8, 2026. #CareerStagnation #SideProject #MidCareer #CareerReinvention #MarketingManager #SustainablePackaging #Newsletter #Fortune500 #ProfessionalGrowth #JobSatisfaction #CareerAdvice #Momentum #Autonomy #InternalVisibility #SkillBuilding #Business #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo