Beyond the Gig: Integrating Entrepreneurship into Sustainable Career Pathways

In this episode, Dr. Sharon interviews career development researcher Dr. Tristram Hooley about integrating entrepreneurship into sustainable career pathways. They challenge the common “flexibility and wealth” narrative by noting uneven access to capital and networks, frequent failure, and that self-employment can mean lower pay and longer hours. Hooley argues that career guidance should support access to decent work, avoid shifting risk onto individuals, and include socially-just practices such as recognizing power dynamics, questioning norms, acting collectively, and considering cooperative or social entrepreneurship. 

Dr. Tristram Hooley is a leading expert in career development, employability, and the future of work. As a researcher, author, and thought leader, he has published extensively on career guidance, social justice, and the impact of technology on careers. Tristram is Professor of Career Education at the University of Derby and a Visiting Professor at the Inland Norway University and Canterbury Christ Church University. He is also an advocate for evidence-based practice in career development and a frequent speaker at international conferences. He is the author of 16 books on career and associated topics and his most recent book is the third edition of The Careers Leader Handbook which support practitioners in schools to run high quality careers education programmes. He writes the Adventures in Career Development blog at: https://adventuresincareerdevelopment.wordpress.com/