"It's OK to Choose Your Mental Health": One Academic's Leap into Industry and a Side Hustle

🎙️ “I didn’t tell anyone I was leaving academia. I just left.”

When Jeff Malins quietly exited a tenure-track position to protect his marriage, mental health, and creativity… he didn’t know how to talk about it. He didn’t even post an update on LinkedIn.

In this honest conversation, Jeff shares what led him to walk away from a ‘successful’ academic career—including the surprising clarity that came after the decision—and how he’s now thriving as an AI scientist, part-time editor and coach, and side-hustle business owner.

If you’ve ever wondered, “What if I just left?”, this episode will open your eyes to what’s possible—and remind you that you're not alone.

In this episode, we discuss:

🎨 Why Jeff left academia without having a toxic workplace

🎨 How he found meaningful work at the Mayo Clinic

🎨 The emotional weight of leaving and not knowing what’s next

🎨 How painting, public speaking, and coaching helped him reconnect with himself

🎨 His journey through the BAE program and how he’s shaping his new business

🔗 Resources Mentioned:

Connect with Jeff on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-malins/

Learn more about my friend, and phenomenal coach, Tory Wobber: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-tory-wobber-phd-cpcc-0364682b/

Explore the Becoming an Academic Editor program: https://acadiaediting.com/becomeaneditor

05:11 Personal factors influenced job relocation decisions.

06:00 It's okay to prioritize family over academic career.

07:28 Choosing happiness and family is a valid choice.

08:56 Transition from academia to a research role in AI.

09:20 Research opportunities continue outside of academia.

22:05 Different institutional cultures affect work-life balance.

23:42 Creative marketing strategies enhance professional identity.

26:22 Importance of personal narratives in scientific communication.

29:09 Shift towards career coaching from editing services.

30:49 Workshops bridge community and offer unique learning experiences.

33:00 Assessing unique contributions beyond academic roles.

36:20 Broadening definitions of professional opportunities.

38:09 Integrating personal passions into professional work encourages fulfillment.

43:30 Targeting university departments for workshops increases visibility.

45:00 Workshops provide revenue and client opportunities.

49:21 Personalized outreach can strengthen professional connections.

51:02 Taking advantage of existing networks for referrals.

51:39 Building a supportive community enhances entrepreneurial confidence.

52:05 Engaging with a broader audience strengthens personal brand.

52:24 Learning from peers is valuable in professional development.

52:27 Encouragement fosters readiness for new business ventures.

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