One of the most beautiful characteristics about America is the ability we have to fall, dust ourselves off and try again. Layoffs or firings may seem unsurmountable at first, but we’ve seen over and over again how getting laid off can often be the first step towards a significantly more fulfilling future. We’ve shared some incredible stories below.
Yulinda Rahman (Rock-man)
I worked for the Chicago Public School system for 8 years. I was the chair of the counseling department and the second lowest “man” on the totem pole and when CPS conducted massive layoffs I was one of many to be let go. What makes this even more of a hectic time is that I was newly divorced, not even a year in! Read more>>
Jeena Belil
In 2007, I was in-house Managing Counsel for an insurance company. My entire department was part of a series of layoffs before the company went belly-up. I had a three year old at home and decided that I did not want to spend my days commuting and working in a corporate setting, just to come home exhausted and have no energy for my daughter. I decided instead to start a different kind of personal injury law firm. Read more>>
Robert Given
What we do now was not always our career goal. Rob went to school for Audio Engineering, then 3D Animation. My background is Children’s Education and Development, and Religious & Cultural Studies. I taught kindergarten and Rob worked different jobs here and there. He was working as a cook when Covid hit, and was laid off. Read more>>
Sandria Rush
I was let go from a job not once, but twice! And for an unjust cause at that. As devastating as it was, instead of harboring my feelings about being fired, I used that as an opportunity to start building my brand. I believe that we sometimes are put into positions of discomfort to walk out our dreams that we normally wouldn’t have the confidence to do if everything was going “well”. Read more>>
Justin Keys
Honestly, I’ve never been a fan of traditional jobs, even if they offer stability and financial security. I find more fulfillment in expressing myself through art and pursuing my passions. While I value responsibility, I prefer the freedom to manage my own time. I’ve always maintained positive relationships with my bosses and coworkers. Read more>>
Kate Mura
First a little backstory. I started my personal study of tarot in 1997 after through three friends I received two decks in one week. Then in 2000 after being hired through another friend to read at a large event I felt woefully under-skilled for, I did a deep dive intensive study with Matthew Ellenwood. Tarot had already been a part of my personal practice and was then cemented as a part of my professional world as a regular side hustle. Read more>>
Kyle Terboss
In April of 2023, the film and television industry was completely shut down due to the writers (WGA) strike, then followed up with the actors (SAG) strike. My business partner and I, who are both working members of the International Cinematographers Guild (Local 600) and reliant on the film and television business as our main source of income were left with no jobs, no income and plenty of time on our hands. Read more>>
Ashley Brandenburg
Ever since I was 8 years old, all I wanted was to write, record, and create music in the city where dreams came true. In 2010, I embarked on my journey in Nashville. I ended up landing a recording and publishing deal in 2012 with BE Music + Entertainment. I went to work recording my debut album and writing with some of the best in Nashville. Read more>>
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