#44 You Can Do Hard Things: Making a Midlife Career Pivot with Guest Jason Mustard

In this episode of the Wholistic Productivity Podcast, Chris LeBrun sits down with Jason Mustard, an immigration attorney and law firm partner, to explore what it really takes to make a major career pivot later in life—without sacrificing your values, your family, or your well-being.Jason brings a rare perspective shaped by lived experience. After earning a journalism degree and spending a decade working in education, marketing, and recruitment, Jason made the bold decision to leave a stable career and return to school for law—with a spouse, young kids, and real financial pressure in the mix. Today, he practices immigration law in the Bay Area, helping families stay together and individuals pursue new futures.Together, Chris and Jason unpack the emotional, practical, and productivity challenges of starting over mid-career. They talk candidly about fear, identity, imposter syndrome, preparation, support systems, and why doing meaningful work often requires patience—not urgency. In this episode, you’ll learn:Why making a big career change doesn’t mean starting from zeroHow to manage fear, uncertainty, and imposter syndrome when stakes are highThe role support systems play in long-term successWhy “treat it like a job” is a powerful productivity mindsetIf you’re wrestling with a career crossroads, a long-held calling, or the tension between professional ambition and personal priorities, this episode will help you think more clearly—and more compassionately—about your next step.Show Links

Connect with Jason on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-mustard-26642b6a/Contact his law firm - https://surowitz.com Chapters00:00 Introduction03:02 The Journey of Career Transition06:42 Understanding Immigration Law10:03 The Decision to Pursue Law School13:46 Experiences in Law School17:14 Overcoming Doubts and Fears22:05 Support Systems in Career Changes25:47 Preparing for the Bar Exam26:35 The Weight of Expectations29:59 The Journey Through Law School32:14 Transitioning from Education to Law34:05 The Impact of Immigration Law38:08 The Courage of Immigrants39:52 Balancing Priorities in Law School45:36 Work-Life Balance in Law Practice49:29 Navigating Law School Challenges53:00 The Importance of Doing Hard Things55:49 Defining Success and Happiness58:10 Taking Risks and Building Confidence59:34 The Questions01:13:13 ConclusionThis episode is sponsored by Efficient.appDon't waste time searching for the best software. Let the experts at efficient.app do it for you. They have tons of "No BS" reviews on all kinds of software so you'll always get an honest recommendation. When you're ready to buy they offer discounts as well. So check them out next time you are looking for new software! This episode is sponsored by Little Golden ShepherdIf you're looking for an all-natural remedy to manage your muscle, joint, and nerve pain, check out Little Golden Shepherd butters. Made with herbs and natural oils, LGS butters are a great natural alternative for pain. Use this link & the promo code "wholprod" to save 15% on your first order. Experience relief, naturally.Support the showJoin the free Wholistic Productivity community on Skool