About Beyond Cubicles
#BeyondCubicles is a LinkedIn series created by Carolina D’Souza, born out of her own experience transitioning from a corporate career to independent consulting. Since its launch in June 2024, the series has evolved into a platform that showcases the inspiring journeys of several founders who have redefined the traditional 9-to-5.
Through authentic narratives, #BeyondCubicles highlights themes of courage, resilience, and purpose. The stories feature individuals from diverse industries—ranging from tech and education to wellness and adventure—who share their experiences of stepping away from conventional roles to pursue passion-driven careers.
From Nurse to Coach
Magda Snowden’s journey from nursing to coaching wasn’t a career change but an evolution of purpose.
“Nursing and coaching share the same core values—empathy, compassion, and a genuine commitment to others,” she says.
Her passion for helping others began in Poland, where she developed a strong work ethic. After moving to the UK in 2004, she honed her nursing skills. Over time, she realized the same skills she used to guide patients through healing could empower others facing stress and burnout.
“I was already coaching patients—helping them navigate treatments and guiding their healing process,” she says. “It felt like a natural step.”
Magda’s transition wasn’t about leaving nursing behind but expanding its principles into a broader, more empowering realm. This shift allowed her to address challenges beyond healthcare, including the pressures leaders face in high-stakes environments.
In her coaching practice, she uses the 5-Step Mentally Agile Leadership Framework, a system she developed to tackle recurring issues like stress, burnout, and the ‘hero narrative.’ Her framework integrates scientific insights with practical tools, helping leaders shift from ‘hero’ to ‘human’.
This evolution came with its challenges.
Professionally, she had to build resilience in the face of setbacks. Personally, she learned the importance of boundaries and protecting her energy.
Support from her husband was a cornerstone during this journey, offering both encouragement and perspective. “He’s been my biggest cheerleader, always reminding me to focus on my ‘why,’” she says. This purpose—helping others embrace their humanity—guided her through moments of doubt and external criticism.
Personal branding was key to this transition. Working with a mentor helped Magda refine her positioning, craft authentic messaging, and highlight her values. “Personal branding is about presenting yourself with integrity and building trust,” she says.
Today, as a mental agility expert, healthcare leadership coach and team transformation facilitator based in Dubai since 2018, she draws on her nursing background to bring a unique perspective to her clients.
“Accepting people as they are, not as we want them to be, has been one of my most liberating lessons,” she says.
Her holistic approach to wellbeing extends into her personal life. “Whether it’s spending time in nature, attending wellness retreats, or deepening my personal relationships, I prioritize balance,” she says.
Her advice for those considering a career shift? “Ask for feedback—early and often. Don’t be afraid to ask the tough questions, like ‘What do you think I’m missing?’ or ‘What would you do differently?’ Feedback isn’t just about affirmation; it’s about growth.”