Jen Jortner Cassidy spent 25 years thriving in the corporate world before an unexpected and intense burnout changed the trajectory of her life. Today, she channels that experience into helping others reclaim their energy, purpose, and personal power. Humans of Fuzia is proud to feature Jen because her story is a reminder to our 5M+ community that caring deeply for your work doesn’t mean compromising your wellbeing — and that awakening often begins in moments of challenge.
Q: What inspired you to begin this new chapter in your journey?
A: It started as a challenge. After decades in corporate customer success, the events of 2020 brought on a level of burnout I never saw coming. I loved my work, but I wasn’t taking care of myself. Leaving the corporate world and becoming a life coach was my way of creating a healthier, more aligned path — and now, I help others do the same so they can thrive at work and in life.
Q: What were the biggest challenges you faced while transitioning from corporate to coaching?
A: Honestly, the biggest challenge was trying to fit myself into a box that I didn’t fit into anymore. People who care deeply about their work are actually more at risk of burnout — we overextend ourselves, take on extra responsibilities, and often ignore our own energy cycles. Learning to manage my energy, set boundaries, and rebuild my professional identity on my own terms was transformative.
Q: What milestone in your journey are you proudest of so far?
A: A recent one stands out. I piloted a referral program for my coaching clients, offering a commission for referrals. One client told me she didn’t want the money — she just wanted more sessions with me. That meant more to me than any financial reward. It was a genuine affirmation of the impact my work has on others.
Q: How do you view women in leadership today?
A: Women are people with diverse challenges — and while some of those challenges differ from men’s, it’s not about us versus them. Women often carry more household and caregiving responsibilities, and flexibility is crucial. As someone without children, I also faced biases where I was expected to take on extra work. Additionally, hormonal transitions like perimenopause or menopause are real factors that workplaces should acknowledge. But above all, we must avoid generalizations. Every individual deserves to be seen for who they truly are, not for biases placed upon them.
Q: What message would you share with future women leaders and entrepreneurs?
A: Patience. When you’re used to structure and accountability from corporate life, entrepreneurship can feel overwhelming. Most things you try won’t work at first — and that’s normal. Be resilient, be curious, and surround yourself with a supportive community. You cannot do this alone, and you shouldn’t have to.
Q: What is your idea of success, personally and professionally?
A: Feeling fully empowered in your choices. Success isn’t about titles or money — it’s about having both time abundance and financial abundance in a way that supports your needs and brings you joy.
“Success is feeling empowered in your choices — not chasing titles, but choosing a life that supports your energy, joy, and wellbeing.”
Connect with Jen Jortner Cassidy
Jen Jortner Cassidy, CPC, ELI-MP, CTDS | LinkedIn
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