Working outside has been a revelation - career change interview with Martin Swithenbank

Martin Swithenbank, an Outdoor Instructor and climber based in the Yorkshire Pennines, shares his journey from working in art studios and formal education to becoming an outdoor educator. Initially hesitant to apply for the job at an outdoor centre, Martin has found a new calling working with 10 and 11-year-olds, using outdoor activities to engage and inspire them. During the COVID pandemic, a stint working with at-risk children ignited his passion for making a positive impact outside traditional school settings. Encouraged by his friends and partner, Martin made a significant career shift by apprenticing at an outdoor centre. He reflects on overcoming self-doubt, embracing new opportunities, and the transformative power of outdoor education for both himself and the children he works with.Conversation topics include challenges in mainstream education, gaining confidence and overcoming imposter syndrome, believing in your abilities, embracing failure as growth and the power of human connection.Listen all of the way to the end so that Martin can ask you a question that may help you to think about your own potential career change.Recording informationThis interview was recorded in Edale on 17th December 2025.ReferencesWest Yorkshire PoliceCarl RogersA Mug of Life on InstagramFinal notesVisit About The Adventure website to contact Sarah, the podcast host, with your comments, questions or suggestions for future guests. Or email directly: [email protected] to Sarah's newsletter to receive episodes in your inbox, along with career change interviews and career coaching questions.Podcast music is by Tsarzi and artwork by Tiffany-Francis Baker.Thanks for listening!