Leaving the Corporate World: How to Redefine Your Identity and Success with Mike Cordone | E8

In this episode I sat down with my twin brother Mike and talked to him about about his recent decision to leave his corporate engineering job in New York City to pursue a more fulfilling career in photography. We discuss finding your purpose, the challenges of switching careers, and the importance of balancing passion projects with making a living. Michael Cordone shares insights on building a creative business, overcoming burnout, and why intentionally designing your life matters more than just climbing the corporate ladder. This episode is perfect for anyone searching for meaningful work, exploring entrepreneurship, or looking for inspiration to take the next step toward their true purpose.  ✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way📍 Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction 00:53 – Meet My Twin Brother01:20 – Discovering Photography & Corporate Burnout03:12 – Starting a Photography Business04:16 – Multiple Income Streams in Photography06:01 – Balancing Passion Projects and Making Money07:01 – Choosing Engineering: Reflections on College & Career Choices10:18 – The Influence of Family and Following the Expected Path13:25 – The Impact of Life Events & COVID on Career Decisions15:29 – Corporate Culture: Early Work Experiences18:39 – The Decision to Leave Corporate for Photography21:40 – Prioritizing Life Over Work: Loss, Values & Taking the Leap24:10 – Mindset, Failure, and Unlearning Corporate Habits27:14 – Transitioning to Self-Employment: Challenges & Time Management30:32 – The Importance of Self-Growth and Learning36:38 – What Excites Michael: Building Connections & The Value of Photography43:31 – What’s Next & How to Connect with Michael44:27 – Closing 💡Key TakeawaysIn this episode you'll learn:How to quit your corporate jobHow to make a career change and make the leapHow overcome corporate mindsetsHow to diversify income with a photography business How to make a career decision How to value human connection in photography How to overcome fear of failure in a career changeHow to make steps to build a business   🚀 Start Here If You're New1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 452. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 483. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39 👥How To ConnectWorkingtowardsourpurpose.comWatch on YouTubeSubstackInstagramLinkedInWTOP MerchFeedback Form WTOP.comConnect with Mike:Mike's WebsiteCheck out Mike's Instagram portfolio Buy one of his awesome prints