Success Stories

Real comebacks from real people

Layoffs are hard, but they're not the end. These are real stories from people who faced job loss and found their way to something better—sometimes something they never expected.

"The day I was laid off felt like the worst day of my career. Looking back, it was the best thing that ever happened to me."

— A common sentiment from our community

From Big Tech Layoff to Dream Startup: Sarah's Story

After being laid off from a major tech company, Sarah took a chance on a small startup and found the fulfilling career she never knew she wanted.

Sarah M. | Senior Product Manager at Big Tech → Head of Product at HealthTech Startup

tech-industry career-pivot startup

Corporate Executive to Small Business Owner: Marcus's Journey

After 20 years in corporate finance, Marcus used his layoff as the push he needed to finally start the business he'd always dreamed about.

Marcus T. | VP of Finance at Fortune 500 → Owner, Craft Brewery

entrepreneurship finance career-change

How a Layoff Helped Me Find Work-Life Balance: Jennifer's Story

Jennifer was working 70-hour weeks before her layoff. Now she has a better job and actually sees her kids.

Jennifer R. | Senior Consultant at Big 4 → Strategy Director at Mid-Size Company

work-life-balance consulting better-opportunity

Never Too Late: How David Changed Careers at 45

After being laid off from manufacturing management, David went back to school and reinvented himself as a data analyst.

David L. | Plant Manager in Manufacturing → Senior Data Analyst at Healthcare Company

career-change education age-discrimination

From Retail Manager to UX Designer: Keisha's Transformation

When her store closed during the pandemic, Keisha used unemployment to completely reinvent her career—and more than doubled her salary.

Keisha W. | Store Manager at National Retailer → UX Designer at Tech Company

retail career-change design

Common Themes in Success Stories

Career Pivots

Using layoffs as a catalyst to pursue a new industry or role

Entrepreneurship

Starting businesses and pursuing passion projects

Better Opportunities

Landing roles with better pay, culture, or work-life balance

Personal Growth

Developing resilience, new skills, and self-awareness

Share Your Success Story

Have you turned a layoff into a success? Your story could help others going through the same experience. We'd love to hear from you.

Submit Your Story