Episode 38

full
Published on:

22nd Jul 2026

You Aren't Stuck. You're Playing Too Small.

What happens when the life you worked hard to build no longer feels like it fits?

Dave Crane has reinvented himself more than once, from a young entertainer in Scotland to a BBC journalist, radio leader, international host, speaker, and mentor.

In this candid conversation, he shares what it took to move through rejection, career pivots, pandemic stress, and the pressure to keep proving himself. Dave offers a powerful reframe for anyone standing at a crossroads: the version of you that feels most capable may already be there, waiting for permission to lead.

Along the way, he shares practical ways to speak with more confidence, build a side path before leaving an unhappy job, and trade the chase for constant happiness for a life rooted in contentment.

If you've been quietly wondering whether it's too late to make a change, this episode is a reminder that your next chapter can begin with one key question.

Chapters:

  • (00:00:00) Dave on the difference between your public self and your strongest self
  • (00:06:00) Rejection at the BBC and the decision to leave the UK
  • (00:12:00) Reinventing a career when the pandemic stopped everything
  • (00:18:00) Meeting the superhero version of yourself
  • (00:24:00) Why public speaking fear feels so intense
  • (00:30:00) How to bring an audience into the conversation
  • (00:36:00) Building trust, presence, and a personal brand
  • (00:42:00) Creating a side path before leaving work you dislike
  • (00:48:00) Choosing contentment over the chase for happiness
  • (00:52:00) A final reminder to live a life that is truly yours

Links and Resources:

Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to and then i did this? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube to leave us a review!

Next Episode All Episodes Previous Episode

Listen for free

Show artwork for and then I did this

About the Podcast

and then I did this
The unique journeys of individuals who've had the courage to break free and live life on their own terms.
"And Then I Did This" brings you the unique journeys of individuals who've had the courage to break free and live life on their own terms.

Each episode takes you behind the scenes of an ordinary person's extraordinary transformation. You'll hear from those who've walked away from the beaten path to pursue work and a life that nourishes their soul. Their stories prove that you truly can be free to live your best and most authentic life.

Get ready to be inspired as we explore the challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned from those who dared to create the life of their dreams. Whether it's leaving the corporate grind to start a small business, embarking on a midlife career change, or simply redesigning your daily routine to prioritize your passions - the guests on "And Then I Did This" show you that it's possible to break free and live life on your own terms.

Join us each week and prepare to be motivated, encouraged, and empowered to take the first steps toward more freedom in your life.

If you're feeling inspired and ready to explore your own path to freedom, check out YouCanBeFree.life where you'll find resources and support to help you break free and live life on your own terms.

About your host

Profile picture for LuRae Lumpkin

LuRae Lumpkin