Beat Ageism and Own Your Future

Escape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan
Beat Ageism and Own Your Future

In this episode, Pete and Dave tackle a hard truth: ageism in corporate America is real, hitting seasoned professionals earlier. But instead of getting pushed out and stalled, you can create a new path forward. They share their personal stories of overcoming age bias and building successful businesses on their own terms through franchise ownership.

In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:

The Wake-Up Call of Ageism
Dave shares the moment he realized that even decades of success, loyalty, and leadership don’t shield you from age-based bias. Pushed out sooner than expected, he describes the shock, the emotional toll, and how that experience became a turning point. Ageism may not always be obvious, but the coded language, hesitation, and roadblocks are real.

The False Promises of the Job Market
Pete and Dave break down the corporate job hunt after 50: polishing resumes, reaching out to old contacts, chasing roles you’re overqualified for—only to be told you’re too expensive, too senior, or “not quite the right fit.” They unpack the mental exhaustion and false hope that many executives encounter when trying to reenter the workforce.

Taking Back Control Through Ownership
Instead of waiting for permission or opportunity, franchise ownership gives professionals the power to write their next chapter. Pete and Dave walk through how business ownership puts you in charge of your schedule, your strategy, and your income stream—and why that control is so essential when age starts working against you in traditional careers.

Life After Corporate: What It Really Looks Like
Both hosts share the actual lifestyle shift that came with entrepreneurship: no more Sunday night dread, no more missed family moments. Fridays are for fun. Mondays are for errands. They explain how this freedom isn’t theoretical—it’s a real, tangible benefit of choosing to build something for yourself.

The Transferable Power of Your Corporate Skill Set
Just because corporate isn’t hiring doesn’t mean you’re out of value. Pete and Dave emphasize how franchise models thrive when owners bring in leadership, process thinking, and business management expertise. They explain how your existing skill set becomes an engine, not a relic, in the world of business ownership.

Key Takeaways:

• Ageism won’t go away—but you don’t have to let it stop you.
• Most executives wait too long to prepare for life after corporate.
• Your skill set is still valuable—it just needs a new platform.
• Business ownership gives you control over your schedule, your income, and your impact.
• Franchise models offer structure, support, and a clear path to autonomy.
  
  
  

“Ageism might cost you your next job—but it can’t take away your skills. You

CONNECT WITH PETER GILFILLAN

Meet with Pete: https://www.hireyourself.com/gilfillan/
Website: https://www.hireyourself.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petegilfillan/

CONNECT WITH DAVID GREENBERG

Meet with Dave: https://calendly.com/empoweredfranchisee/virtual-coffee-with-dave-the-empowered-franchiee-web
Website: https://empoweredfranchisee.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-greenberg-entrepreneur/