Stay in your lane, definitely. And not just because of the reasons you listed. Your incredible work ethic shines through every post I've ever read from you. But if you're now working for yourself, as I have been for several years now, my advice would be to avoid doing pro bono unless you say that's what you're doing right from the start. I have my cash cow clients, those I do where I just break even because of the experience/ potential and those I do at a loss or for free, like charities I care about. I planned a good mix of voluntary and non executive work alongside well paid consultancy and I mix and match at different times of year. You'd be working for free off brief for a client who may/ may not appreciate it, with some unknown dynamics with another consultant, and I think after the crappy experience with your last employer, could end up giving you **** you don't need right now. So smile and do your thing but if you feel the need to improve things is an itch that still needs scratching, do it for a good voluntary cause. Success in consultancy is when their payment clears and they ask you back! Glad to see you're doing well BTW