In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome Patrick Mazzocco, an academic whose PhD research dives deep into the motivations, experiences, and outcomes of career breaks. Having taken multiple career breaks himself, Patrick brings both academic insight and personal experience to the conversation. His work sheds light on the emotional journey of stepping away from work, the myths surrounding career breaks, and the evolving nature of career identity.Our conversation explores the diverse reasons people step away from work, the gap between expectations and reality, and the importance of personal reflection in navigating these transitions. We also discuss the courage it takes to carve out your own path—especially in the face of societal pressures. Together, we explore:The diverse experiences of career break takers—expectations, transformative moments, and the impact on identity.The emotional highs and lows of career breaks, common myths, and the importance of redefining career identity.Why identity crises are common during career breaks as individuals reassess their self-worth.The surprising number of participants who found contentment in simply doing nothing.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Sabbatical Stories01:30 Patrick's Transformative Career Breaks05:24 Navigating Family Expectations and Pushback11:27 Researching Career Breaks: A New Perspective17:43 Understanding the Decision-Making Process20:11 Debunking Myths About Career Breaks21:55 Identity Crisis During Career Breaks25:51 The Reality of Career Breaks34:50 Exploring Career Identity43:09 The Impact of Career Breaks on Identity45:18 Debunking Myths About Career BreaksGuest bio: Patrick Mazzocco is a doctoral candidate and Programmes Coordinator at the University of Otago, specialising in career transitions and career breaks. His PhD research explores the motivations, experiences, and outcomes of individuals who take career breaks without employer sponsorship or a guaranteed return to their previous roles. Originally from Indianna, Patrick is an educator and career development professional with more than 10 years of experience and a strong history of success in programme development, curriculum design, and interdepartmental collaboration.Connect with Patrick on LinkedIn Other episodes you may enjoy: How to Master the Art of Sabbaticals and Career Breaks with Katrina McGheeHow a Career Break helped Steve Duke Pivot Professionally and Rediscover FunGet in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you. Buzz us a DM on Instagram - @Sabbaticalstoriespodcast or reach out on LinkedIn, I’m Bex Thomas.Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching: I’m a coach who supports individuals through pivotal moments of transition in both their personal and professional lives. I support those who are facing a crossroads to discover clarity. Working with you I empower you to invest in a future version of yourself that will make you proud. Through personalised coaching sessions and my signature career transition and sabbatical programs I aim to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for you to explore your values, strengths and goals. More importantly I coach you to intentionally design your next chapter by redefining what success looks like to you and then implementing it.Feel Good Getaways - https://feelgood-getaways.com/With special thanks to: Aunty B at the Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine. Joanna Cooke, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EyKy53TsVFLJFZFyYzBZQ?si=HaCSIRCETS2uYB3LBLcrWAWebsite - https://joannacooke.co.ukYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacookeInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/
