Break Free from Golden Handcuffs: How John Cerasani Made a 2000% Raise and Built a Life on His Own Terms

Are you stuck in corporate America, yearning for more but too afraid to ask for it? In this electrifying episode, Julie Lokun sits down with John Cerasani —venture capitalist, former insurance executive, and host of the 2000% Raise Podcast —to unpack the truth about leaving your 9-to-5, knowing your worth, and building a life and business on your own terms. John gets real about: Why climbing the corporate ladder is often a trap The psychological shackles of "golden handcuffs" How asking for a raise (and being denied) catapulted him into entrepreneurial success What he learned selling his company for a life-changing exit His advice for high-achievers looking to transition into entrepreneurship, even later in life Whether you’re contemplating a side hustle, launching a startup, or just sick of waiting for your next 3% cost-of-living raise, this episode will shake you up and show you what’s truly possible. Key Topics: 💸 2000% Raise : How John made the leap from employee to millionaire entrepreneur 🧠 Mindset Shift : From job security to building equity in yourself 🧮 Runway Planning : Smart financial tips for exiting your 9-to-5 safely 🔥 Golden Handcuffs : Why benefits and consistency may be keeping you small 🧗 Corporate Brainwashing : Overcoming the belief that you can’t compete 🧰 Real-World VC Insight : How John became a venture capitalist post-exit 🗣️ Tough Love Advice : What most people get wrong when starting their own business Quotes to Remember: “Corporate America brainwashes us into believing we can’t compete. But that’s just not true.” — John Cerasani “If they gave me that raise, I would’ve never left. Thank God they said no.” “A 2000% raise isn’t just about money—it’s about owning your freedom.” Resources & Links: 💥 Follow John Cerasani on Instagram : @johncerasani 🎙️ Unlock Your Creative Potential with The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast JOIN US LIVE FOR THE ICONIC BUSINESS CONFERENCE IN FEBRUARY: www.cre8tivecon.com Are you a visionary, dreamer, or changemaker ready to ignite your brand , scale your business , and turn passion into profit ? 🔥 Subscribe now to The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast — the go-to podcast for creative entrepreneurs , business coaches , startup founders , and innovative thought leaders who are ready to break barriers and dominate their industries. 🌟 Hosted by Julie Lokun , founder of Cre8tive Con , this top-rated show delivers expert interviews , marketing strategies , branding tips , and real stories that inspire bold action and next-level success. ✅ Don't miss your chance to: Learn from top entrepreneurs and influencers Get actionable advice to grow your audience and impact Stay ahead with the latest podcasting , PR , and personal branding trends 🎧 New episodes every week! 📲 Hit Subscribe on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , or wherever you listen. 🚀 Visit www.cre8tivecon.com to level up your creative journey today! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.