In this episode of The Corporate Escapee Podcast, Brett welcomes Denise Murtha Bachmann, a former corporate sales professional who reinvented herself as a consultant, coach, and fractional sales leader. Denise shares her journey of leaving a 30-year corporate career—one she once considered “family”—after an unexpected layoff. She opens up about the challenges of identity loss, mental health struggles, and the self-discovery that ultimately led her to build a business that aligns with her expertise and passion for AI in sales.

Denise and Brett discuss:

✅ The emotional impact of leaving corporate and why many professionals struggle with the transition

✅ How AI is transforming sales—but why the human connection remains critical

✅ The importance of adapting and pivoting as a solopreneur

✅ Finding your first clients and learning to charge what you’re worth

✅ Managing time, priorities, and overcoming the guilt of working ‘too much’ or ‘too little’

Denise also shares her Life Bucket strategy to help balance work, family, and personal growth while building a business. If you’re on the fence about leaving corporate or struggling to find your path post-corporate, this conversation is packed with wisdom, practical takeaways, and inspiration.

📌 Connect with Denise on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/denisemurtha

Takeaways

Denise spent over 30 years in corporate sales, primarily in software and AI.
Her layoff in 2022 was a pivotal moment that led to her entrepreneurial journey.
She emphasizes the importance of human connection in the sales process.
Denise's initial business focus was on leveraging AI in sales.
She faced personal struggles, including grief and health issues, after her layoff.
Denise recognized a gap in how sales teams were adapting to new technologies.
She pivoted her business model to focus on coaching and consulting.
The journey of healing was intertwined with her entrepreneurial path.
Denise's guilt stemmed from balancing work and family life.
She learned to navigate the challenges of being a business owner while raising children. Creating content pillars can help in organizing life priorities.
Life buckets allow for better time management and focus.
Early sales efforts often come from personal networks.
Valuing oneself is crucial in client relationships.
Beta clients can help in understanding market value.
Embracing experimentation leads to growth and new opportunities.
AI will play a significant role in future business landscapes.
Human connection remains essential despite technological advancements.
Self-care and emotional healing are vital for success.
Adaptability is key in entrepreneurship and personal growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Denise's Journey

01:17 Corporate Background and Transition to Entrepreneurship

04:37 The Impact of Layoff and Personal Struggles

08:14 Recognizing the Gap in Sales and AI

12:56 Initial Business Ventures and Pivots

15:40 Navigating Guilt and Work-Life Balance

19:25 Finding Focus and Harmonizing Life's Demands

20:37 Creating Life Buckets for Balance

22:27 Navigating Early Sales and Client Acquisition

28:04 Embracing Experimentation and Intuition

33:07 The Future of AI and Human Connection

37:48 Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Entrepreneurs