Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneur: Lessons from a 35-Year Corporate Veteran Jim Fielding

Transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurship @ 1:32

Jim shares his background, explaining that after a 35-year corporate career, he has transitioned to full-time entrepreneur, coach, speaker, and writer. He discusses the challenges and benefits of this shift, noting that his extensive corporate experience has provided him with valuable tools and insights to apply in his new roles.

The value of coaching and mentorship @ 8:06

Jim describes his experience receiving coaching while at Disney, which he credits with helping him become a better leader. He emphasizes the importance of being open to coaching and mentorship, even for experienced professionals, and how it can lead to personal and professional growth.

Managing diversity and inclusion in the workplace @ 22:06

Michael and Jim discuss the increasing diversity of the workforce and customer base, and the business imperative for companies to effectively manage diversity and inclusion. They share examples of their experiences with diverse teams and the benefits of embracing different perspectives and cultural backgrounds.

Recap and next steps @ 31:23

Michael and Jim wrap up the conversation, providing information on how listeners can connect with Jim further, including his website, LinkedIn, and book. They express their appreciation for the discussion and the insights shared.

Jim Fielding is a respected leader in Experiential Retail, Brand Management, and Media Development, with over 15 years of experience at the President and CEO level. He has emerged as a prominent voice in Authentic Leadership and DEI following the release of his best-selling book, ALL PRIDE, NO EGO, in 2023. Jim's career spans over 30 years with major companies like The Gap, Disney, and 20th Century Fox, where he became known for building collaborative global teams and cultures.

Jim works with clients on entrepreneurial ventures, higher education initiatives, and advisory roles. He has presented to organizations such as Oshkosh Inc., Salesforce, and CVS Health, engaging audiences ranging from 50 to 800 attendees. Additionally, Jim is an active angel and venture investor, serving on boards and advising companies in the consumer goods and health sectors.

Jim's commitment to higher education includes roles at Indiana University, where he has served on several boards and received multiple honors. His dedication to servant leadership is reflected in his charitable work with organizations like Make-A-Wish International, GLSEN, and the Human Rights Campaign.

Jim has been featured in premier press outlets like Harvard Business Review, The Wall Street Journal, New York Post, and Newsweek and on podcasts such as Strategy Skills Podcast, Make It Happen Mondays, Office Hours with David Meltzer, Gay Men, Gay Talk, Life (UN)Closeted, and Follow Your Different.

Topics Jim is loves to speak on:

Authentic Leadership and the Path to Personal Authenticity
The Art of Storytelling and Strategic Brand Planning
Creating Safe Spaces for High-Performing Teams and Cultures
Jim’s Career Journey Working at Disney, Dreamworks, The Gap, Claire’s, and Fox

Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneur: Lessons from a 35-Year Corporate Veteran Jim Fielding

Transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurship @ 1:32

The value of coaching and mentorship @ 8:06

Managing diversity and inclusion in the workplace @ 22:06

Recap and next steps @ 31:23

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