Laid Off After 27 Years—And Finding Fulfillment Beyond Corporate w/ Thea Watkins

After 27 years in corporate—including an executive role—Thea Watkins never imagined she’d end up running her own business. A layoff forced her to pause, reflect, and rethink what she really wanted. Instead of jumping back into another corporate job, Thea leaned into her passions: leadership, people development, and inclusive workplaces. Today, Thea runs a portfolio career that blends teaching, coaching, facilitation, and consulting. She’s proof that your decades of experience are not only valuable but highly transferable into meaningful and fulfilling work. In this episode, we cover: • Why your corporate identity can be the hardest thing to leave behind • How to intentionally build an external network after decades in one company • The path from executive leadership to adjunct professor (and why more escapees should consider it) • The real value of coaching—for both yourself and your clients • Practical advice for preparing mentally and emotionally for a corporate exit • Why focusing on values and fulfillment is more powerful than chasing a “perfect” plan If you’re curious about life after corporate, in the middle of transition, or already building your next chapter, Thea’s story shows that fulfillment and freedom are possible—if you’re willing to step into the unknown. Resources & Links: • Website: theawatkinsconsulting.com • LinkedIn: Thea Watkins