Most of us crave a simple solution to burnout: something to soothe the tension between the work we have to do and the life we long to live.
Kartchner wanted that too.As a software training manager struggling with the disconnect between corporate metrics and personal meaning, he turned to woodworking and YouTube as a creative outlet.
At first, it felt like a solution.
Creating something tangible, hearing from viewers, and rediscovering his craftsmanship seemed to offer a lifeline.
But Tyson doesn’t shy away from sharing the harder truth:
“I don’t know how well I’m actually compensating for how much I hate work with a creative shop outlet… Is it really feasible to compartmentalize life that effectively?”
Tyson’s story isn’t about escaping the hard questions — it’s about facing them.
His journey reminds us that creativity isn’t always the answer to burnout, but it can be the flashlight in the dark, showing us where we’re out of alignment.
Through our candid conversation, we uncover a deeper truth: it’s not about compartmentalizing work and life — it’s about integrating them in a way that feels authentic, imperfect, and true to who you are.
This isn’t an episode about quick fixes or tidy endings.
It’s about the messy, ongoing process of finding balance and embracing your journey as it unfolds.
Ready to Explore the Questions That Matter Most?
Join Tyson and Brad in this raw and reflective conversation.
Walk away not with answers, but with new questions — ones that could help you find your path to a more authentic, integrated life.
Then, join (for free!) the growing community of Corporate Dropouts LIVE every Wednesday to get support for your next steps.
Be Sure to Reach Out to Tyson
Visit his YouTube Channel, Geeks Wood Shop, to:
Subscribe to his videos about woodworking techniques and tool usage.
Comment on his videos to share your own projects and discuss the tools required and tips to achieve the best results.
Watch how Tyson delivers inspiration and practical guidance through step-by-step instructions to demonstrate how to make creative designs (Toys and Games, Furniture Builds, 3D Printing Fun, and Shop Builds) using common tools and budget-friendly options.
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Introduction to Corporate Dropouts
01:29 Meet Tyson Kartchner: Balancing Corporate and Creativity
03:29 The Challenges of Corporate Life
09:14 Finding Meaning in Work and Personal Projects
13:00 Tyson's YouTube Journey
21:59 Corporate Metrics vs. Personal Fulfillment
32:54 Embracing Mistakes in Corporate Life
33:38 Navigating Frustrations and Mindset Shifts
36:05 The Inner Compass and Stress Indicators
40:04 Woodworking and Creative Processes
44:23 Balancing Corporate and Creative Pursuits
47:47 Finding and Following Your Inner Compass
54:05 Honest Reflections and Personal Growth
57:15 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts
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