From Employee to Entrepreneur in One Year

Ever thought about quitting your job to start your own business but never took the leap? In this episode of Own the Exit, Caleb Edwards breaks down the exact steps he’d take to transition from employee to full-time entrepreneur in under a year. He tackles the biggest fears—failure, running out of money, not knowing enough—and reveals how to reframe them into opportunities.
If you're stuck in a cycle of hesitation, this episode will give you a roadmap to financial stability, the right mindset, and actionable steps to start building your business while still employed. Whether you're just dreaming or ready to take action, this is your guide to making the transition with confidence.
TAKEAWAYS
- Fear of failure holds most people back from starting a business.
- Building a financial runway makes the transition less risky.
- Starting before you’re ready is the only way to gain real experience.
- Cutting unnecessary expenses can help create financial freedom.
- A strong network accelerates success and opens new doors.
- You don’t need all the answers—learning happens in action.
- Progress beats perfection when launching a business.
- The biggest risk isn’t quitting your job—it’s staying stuck.
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Never Split the Differenceby Chris Voss
FOLLOWS
CHAPTERS
0:00 Why Most People Never Start a Business
0:49 The Real Risk: Staying Stuck
1:33 Overcoming Fear of Failure
2:17 Addressing Fear of Running Out of Money
2:36 Fear of Not Knowing Enough
3:43 Making a Plan to Ensure Success
4:54 How to Build a Financial Runway
6:03 Bare Minimum Month: Cutting Unnecessary Spending
7:02 Earning Before You Leave Your Job
8:32 Managing Pressure Without Sacrificing Health
9:02 Building Your Network and Finding Mentors
9:46 Start Before You're Ready
10:11 Commit and Make the Leap
KEYWORDS
entrepreneurship, quitting your job, business growth, financial freedom, how to start a business, escaping 9-to-5, side hustle, taking the leap, success mindset, startup strategy, wealth building, career transition, passive income, business roadmap, financial planning
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