In this episode of Built This Way, Patricia sits down with retired VP of Operations now DJ Dirk Handlin to explore what it really means to redefine success, leadership, and life after corporate. What starts as a conversation about workplace culture quickly evolves into something deeper, a reflection on identity, fulfillment, and the risk of waiting too long to live the life you actually want.
In this episode of Built This Way, Patricia sits down with retired VP of Operation and Purchasing now DJ Dirk Handlin to unpack what it really means to redefine success, leadership, and life after corporate. From leaving a high-level executive role to reinventing himself as a DJ, Dirk shares why waiting to “enjoy life later” is a risk not worth taking.
Together, they explore workplace culture, the difference between managing and leading, and how true leadership is built through connection, accountability, and authenticity.
This conversation is a reminder that reinvention is always an option and that the life you want doesn’t have to wait.
Intro & Guest Background
Corporate Career & Leadership
Early Retirement & Reinvention
Workplace Culture
Leadership & Accountability
Entrepreneurship & Identity
Closing Thoughts
@DangerousDirkHandlin
Dirk.handlin@outlook.com
Dj_Dirk@yahoo.com