I Quit My Job and Moved Onto a Sailboat | Cory Gerlach

What if personal freedom isn’t about having zero constraints, but about choosing the right ones? Cory Gerlach, author of Radical Paths, walked away from a federal government job advising Congress to live on a sailboat with his husband and cat — despite having almost no sailing experience.Most people spend decades waiting for the “right time.”Corey Gerlach decided not to.In this episode, Corey shares what it’s really like to trade comfort for uncertainty, why freedom isn’t the absence of responsibility, and how every meaningful life requires choosing the right constraints.Corey and I explore the hidden costs of corporate success, why adventure builds resilience, how identity evolves through life’s crossroads, and why personal freedom looks different for every individual.From surviving storms 100 miles offshore to redefining success beyond money, this conversation is an honest look at what happens when you stop asking for permission and begin designing your own life.If you’ve ever wondered whether there’s more waiting beyond the life you’ve built, this episode is for you.Episode Highlights* Leaving a prestigious government career* Learning to sail from scratch* Living aboard a sailboat full-time* Freedom versus financial freedom* Choosing your own constraints* Building resilience through uncertainty* Why adventure changes your identity* Mission vs. goals* The role of serendipity in life* Why there is no “happily ever after”Memorable Quotes“Freedom isn’t the absence of constraints. It’s choosing the constraints you’re willing to live with.”“You don’t have to wait 25 years before asking what kind of life you actually want.”“Money is a tool—not the destination.”“There is no happily ever after. There’s only the day after.”“Sometimes the hardest path is the one most aligned with who you are.”“Adventure isn’t about escaping life. It’s about becoming more alive.”Connect with CoreySubstackLinkedInCoachingThe Personal Freedom PodcastThe Personal Freedom Podcast shares the stories of people who chose a different path—overcoming adversity, rebuilding their lives, pursuing purpose, and defining freedom on their own terms.If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who may be looking for their own way out of the wilderness.RV Life_Digital Nomad _Fisherman that is trying to be a better Hunter_Lover of poems and songs_An enjoyable drinker, eater, and breather_A man who is rebuilding something greaterThere are rainbows in the storms.Signing Off,The Personal Freedom Podcast, Mac DohmWant to Share Your Personal Freedom Story?Almost everyone has a personal freedom story.Maybe yours involved rebuilding after heartbreak.Maybe it meant leaving behind a toxic environment.Maybe it involved taking a risk, changing direction, rediscovering your faith, starting over, pursuing a dream, or simply waking up to the realization that you were meant for something more.If you have a story you feel called to share, I’d love to hear it.You can apply to be a guest on The Personal Freedom Podcast by booking a 1-on-1 Personal Freedom Story Pitch conversation with me.This podcast is about real people, real crossroads moments, and real stories of growth, resilience, and freedom.How You Can Support the ShowCheck out my nomadic art gallery for pictures, posters and prints showcasing my life on the road! Use the Code FREEDOM for 20% off.Art Gallery:https://macnomadicfineartfromtheroad.pic-time.com/Ritual OrganicsSun Tallow – Whipped Beef Tallow Face Cream with Non-Nano ZincProduct Description from Ritual Organics’ website:Grass-fed tallow meets mineral zinc in one whipped, do-it-all balm. Six ingredients. Zero white cast. Zero nonsense.Why people are obsessed:One step. Done. Moisturize, nourish, and shield from UV in a single swipe.Clear Zinc Tech: real UV defense, no chalky ghost face.6 ingredients. Grass-fed whipped tallow, organic jojoba, non-nano zinc, vitamin E, organic rosehip, organic lavender. The end.Non-greasy, non-comedogenic, all skin types, including the dramatic ones.Skinimalist & non-toxic: no fragrances, parabens, preservatives, or mystery chemicals.90 days to fall in love. if you don’t, email or DM us for a full refund. No returns. No questions.Ever AccountableIf you’re trying to build a more intentional life and create healthier digital habits, I’ll leave a link to a tool I personally use called Ever Accountable.Freedom isn’t just about where you go. It’s also about who’s driving the wheel. Tools like Ever Accountable help create honesty, intentionality, and accountability in a world designed to distract and consume you.This is a great tool also if you are a parent and want better protection for your kids online.* Try this link for a limited 14 day free trial and 20% off after that 14 day trial expires.Want to promote your business?Email [email protected] and/or book some time to chat.Subscribe to The Personal Freedom PodcastNew episodes every week featuring conversations about:* Purpose* Adventure* Creativity* Faith* Relationships* Recovery* Rebuilding* Mindset* And the ongoing pursuit of personal freedomIf this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who may need the reminder to keep pursuing freedom in their own life.Where to Find PFPWatch on YouTubeWatch & Listen on SubstackListen on AppleListen on Spotify Get full access to The Personal Freedom Podcast with Mac Dohm at thepersonalfreedompodcast.substack.com/subscribe