We love a good comeback story—but what happens when it’s your life that falls apart?
In this raw and honest interview, Justin shares how he walked away from a dead-end job, pushed through a devastating divorce, and started over from scratch. What he opens up about isn’t just a career change—it’s about identity, grit, growth, and rebuilding a life from the ground up.
His story is proof that even when you hit rock bottom, you can come back stronger—with a life that actually feels like your own.
Taking the Leap
Every big change starts with a decision—but often it’s a slow build of frustration, burnout, or a moment that shifts everything. In this section, Justin shares what pushed him to walk away from a stagnant career and take a leap toward something new.
What inspired you to go back to school and change careers?
After about 7 years in the field at the time, I was fed up with the lack of opportunities for growth available for pharmacy technicians.
Was there a specific moment that made you realize it was time for a change?
Covid was a game changer. I was so burnt out after working nonstop in sterile processing rooms mixing medications. Not because of the workflow, but because I felt like I could be doing more. I was tired of working behind the scenes and dealing with the same petty drama day in and day out.
What were some of your biggest concerns or fears about making such a big transition?
At the time I was married so I was concerned about how much time and money the transition would take away from my then wife and kids.
How did you push through any doubts or hesitations along the way?
Careful planning and prioritizing my family needs first.
The Journey Through Reinvention
Starting over isn’t just about making a change—it’s about pushing through the hard parts of it. Here, Justin opens up about the realities of going back to school, balancing family, and staying motivated through it all.
What was the most challenging part of going back to school and starting over?
I was so far out of the routine and honestly felt like I was too old to still learn in a traditional classroom setting. Now looking back, that part was all mental and largely based on other people’s perspectives, most of which were content with the life they were already living.
How did you balance school, work, and personal life during this transition?
Balance was a struggle. During the first year of the radiology program, I mainly worked short shifts after class or clinical and some on the weekends. In between I would spend time with my then wife and the kids and do homework after everyone fell asleep or at work. Studying happened whenever I could fit it in.
Were there any habits, routines, or mindset shifts that helped you stay focused?
I got into the habit of getting up around 4 am for quick workouts before anyone in the family woke up. It was like my morning coffee. It was my alone time to focus and do something that made me feel good. I truly believe that helped me to push forward.
Did you ever question whether you made the right decision? How did you work through that?
Absolutely. At the end of the summer during my first year of school, I was made aware of some troubling details I was unaware of from my then wife that started the snowball effect towards divorce. I was devastated and internally questioned myself or if I was the cause for her behavior. I thought my decision to return to school was the catalyst. But some trusted people in my life helped me to navigate those thoughts and I realized that her actions were based off her selfish mindset and were not for me to figure out. In a way, that made me even more determined to finish what I started.
What’s something about career reinvention that people don’t talk about enough?
The ugly parts. We hear “blood, sweat and tears” all the time but rarely do we get detailed versions of what that really means. My personal reinvention process almost broke me in every way. At one point I had no appetite, no desire to leave the house and fell into a deep depression that I didn’t even understand at the time. Divorce plus working towards something that challenged my mental, physical and emotional skills was the heaviest weighted feeling I’ve ever experienced.
The Impact of Change
The aftermath of big life changes can reshape your view of success, identity, and what matters most. In this section, Justin reflects on how the experience transformed his mindset—and what makes it all worth it now.
How has this career shift changed your perspective on work and life?
I truly believe that most goals are attainable if we’re willing to work for them.
What’s the most rewarding part of stepping into this new career?
I’m genuinely proud of myself. I set a goal and worked my ass off to accomplish it.
How do you define success now versus before you made this change?
Getting a degree, certification, and a job are all successes. But I’m most proud of my ability to navigate personal challenges without giving up and accomplishing the goals I set for myself.
Looking back, do you think you would have made this leap sooner if you had the chance?
1000%. However, I do believe things happen when they’re supposed to. And there is so much about my last few years that help me to see I’m exactly where I need to be.
Advice & Lessons Learned
Reinvention teaches you a lot—about the world, but mostly about yourself. Justin shares his takeaways for anyone standing at their own crossroads, especially men who may feel the pressure to go it alone.
What’s one thing you wish you had known before starting this journey?
Honestly nothing. I feel like everything played out exactly as it needed to. If I was aware of the struggles I would face prior to the journey, there’s a good chance I’d have talked myself out of it.
What advice would you give to someone—especially another guy—who’s thinking about making a major career shift?
Accept help and give yourself grace. You’re not going to be perfect and that’s okay. Be humble enough to admit when you don’t understand and use your mistakes as learning tools to grow. Don’t allow fear or uncertainty to dictate how you move.
Do you think men face unique challenges or expectations when it comes to career reinvention?
I’m not sure about other men, but I’ve had to be very vulnerable through this process and rely on the people closest to me for support. Most men have trouble asking for help, but it’s inevitable when you reach for new goals because there’s going to be some kind of sacrifice needed. Whether that’s taking a pay cut to pursue a goal or needing therapy to handle the mental stress of learning something new and balancing other areas of life.
What’s been the biggest personal growth lesson you’ve learned from this experience?
I love and trust myself now more than I ever have. The opinion of others has drastically lost value and self-doubt has lessened. And my kids have been able to see a different version of me. More relaxed, content and confident.
Looking Ahead
Life after reinvention doesn’t mean everything is figured out—but it does mean moving forward with clarity. In this final section, Justin shares where his focus is now and what building a life you love really means.
Now that you’ve made this transition, do you see yourself making any other big life changes?
Big? No not yet. But small adjustments yes. Better sleep habits, diet, exercise goals, improving routines, dad goals, the normal things that I wasn’t able to put more focus on for a long time.
What’s next for you—career-wise or personally?
Honestly don’t know career wise. I’ll probably reevaluate after I’ve spent about a year in my current role. But personally, I just want to nurture relationships with those closest to me and have fun with my boys, especially while they’re so young. Maybe a little traveling too.
What does creating a life you love mean to you?
I’m working on this as we speak. I love my kids, family and close friends, but I’m learning the importance of self-love and creating boundaries to create an environment for myself where I can thrive.
Justin’s story is a reminder that real reinvention doesn’t come wrapped in neat timelines or easy wins. It’s messy, painful, and sometimes requires everything you have just to keep going. But it’s also proof that even after burnout, heartbreak, and self-doubt—you can rebuild. You can start over. And you can come back stronger, more grounded, and more yourself than ever before. Whether you’re standing at the edge of a big decision or already in the thick of change, know this: you’re not alone—and it’s not too late to create a life that actually fits.
