The Remote Rebellion: Choosing Freedom Over Fear - Journey with Jake Podcast
Ever feel like the traditional 9-to-5 grind just isn’t for you?
You’re not alone, and Michelle Coulson is living proof that there’s another way. On a recent episode of Journey With Jake, Michelle shared her incredible story of ditching the corporate world to build a freedom-filled life on her own terms.
Spoiler: it involved a solo bike ride across Europe, quitting her job during a global pandemic, and starting her own business from the beaches of Bali.
🌱 Where the Adventure Began
Michelle grew up outside of Manchester but always felt pulled toward something bigger. After spending part of her childhood living in Spain, she caught the travel bug early, and never really lost it.
In her twenties, she said “yes” to just about every adventure she could find. From working at a country club in Florida to ringing in the new year in Times Square (without a plan or place to stay), Michelle chased new experiences wherever she could find them.
But the turning point was a solo cycling trip from Montenegro to France. Just her, her bike, and a lot of steep hills. It wasn’t easy (especially with barely any prep), but it gave her the space to ask herself what she actually wanted out of life. And the answer wasn’t more meetings or a return-to-office mandate.
🏝️ When the World Paused, She Hit “Go”
When the pandemic hit, Michelle packed up and moved to Cornwall in the UK to be closer to the ocean. A decision that eventually led her to Bali, where it was a bit warmer!
But when her job told her to come back to the office, Michelle had a choice: go back to “normal” or take a leap of faith.
So she jumped, and never looked back.
That bold move became the foundation for Remote Rebellion, the company Michelle built to help others break free from traditional work setups and find remote jobs that actually fit their lifestyles. She’s been enabling professionals to land remote roles that offer both flexibility and freedom ever since!
🧠 It’s Not Just About the Job. It’s About the Mindset
One of the best takeaways from Michelle’s chat with Jake? The way she reframes fear.
Her go-to question is: “What’s the worst that could happen?” It might sound simple, but that mindset shift has helped her (and the community of Rebels) push past fear and go after what they really want.
She’s also quick to point out that remote work isn’t just about working from a tropical beach (though it’s a nice perk). It’s about building a life that actually works for you. One that gives you space for adventure, growth, and a little bit of risk.