Leaving Academia: Becoming a Freelance Editor17 Apr 2025

Burned Out by the Academy? Here's How One Scholar Reclaimed Her Joy

What do you do when the academic job you worked so hard for starts to cost you too much?

In this week’s episode of Leaving Academia: Becoming a Freelance Editor, I’m joined by Jenn McClearen, PhD, a former assistant professor who walked away from a nearly complete tenure application and moved to the Netherlands to build a business that honors her values.

Jenn is now a writing coach and developmental editor helping early-career scholars overcome perfectionism, procrastination, and fear of criticism—so they can reclaim writing as a joyful, sustainable practice.

We discuss:

🎯 The mindset shifts that helped her leave academia

🎯 How she built her business around care and consent (not hustle and hierarchy)

🎯 Why marketing doesn’t have to feel gross when you lead with your values

If you’re looking for a way to use your academic skills without sacrificing your well-being, this episode is a must-listen.

Jenn’s story is proof that finding joy outside the academy is possible—not just for her, but for you too. 🐦‍🔥

Watch this episode on YouTube or listen on your favorite podcast app.

Curious to find out more about freelance academic editing or coaching? Get my free video series:

https://AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

Want to work with Jenn?

https://www.jennmcclearen.com/

https://www.publishnotperish.net/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifermcclearen/

0:00 - Embracing New Beginnings in Business

5:16 - How to Overcome Writing Barriers

9:00 - Exploring Alternative Business Models

12:39 - Shifting Perspectives on Marketing

15:06 - Attracting Clients with Your Values

18:55 - Establishing a Coaching Business

24:27 - Designing an Engaging Course Experience

29:11 - Navigating Time Management Challenges

32:47 - Reframing Writing Anxiety

35:33 - Building Supportive Coaching Relationships

41:44 - Lessons Learned from the Academic Journey

43:18 - Connecting with the Audience

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