The start of 2024 was a turning point in my career, a journey that was not without its unexpected twists. After years of leading innovative projects in food tech, I found myself facing an unexpected layoff. It was a moment of uncertainty, deep reflection, clarity, and, ultimately, reinvention.

Here’s the story of how I turned a challenge into an opportunity, overcame the weight of imposter syndrome and the “paper ceiling,” and built a path toward leadership in food tech—on my own terms.

Finding Purpose in a Setback

The layoff wasn’t just a career interruption; it was a wake-up call. I had poured my energy into projects that combined my passion for food and technology, often overlooking my own long-term goals in the process. Suddenly, I had the time to ask myself some tough questions: What do I truly want to create in this industry? How can I make a difference in a way that feels meaningful and authentic?

After some thoughtful reflection, I knew nothing had changed for me. I still wanted to empower others. Food bloggers, content creators, and small businesses in food tech still needed someone to bridge the gap between their creativity and the transformative power of technology. But that vision wasn’t enough to quiet the doubts in my mind. I had the skills, the experience, and the passion—but every time I looked at a job listing, I saw the same phrase staring back at me: “Bachelor’s degree required.”

The “Paper Ceiling” and Imposter Syndrome

The “paper ceiling” perfectly captures what it feels like to face barriers in the workplace because you lack a formal degree. It’s the silent gatekeeper that keeps skilled professionals like me—those who’ve built careers on hard-earned experience—locked out of opportunities, no matter how qualified we are.

“What if they think I don’t belong here?”

I didn’t think about not having a degree for years because I didn’t need to. I was growing professionally, contributing to innovative projects, and getting results. But when I found myself on the job hunt, it felt like all that work didn’t matter. Applications felt like brick walls.

Overcoming imposter syndrome was a significant victory. The questions that once filled my thoughts, like “Am I good enough?” and “What if they think I don’t belong here?” were silenced. Every job posting no longer confirmed my worst fears. I had proven that my accomplishments were not incomplete without a degree. This victory was personal and a testament to the power of self-belief and determination.

It’s easy to let those doubts take over. I could have shrunk back, convinced myself I wasn’t good enough, and walked away from the industry I love. But instead, I made a decision: I would bet on myself.

Blueberri Consulting: A Fresh Start

What began as a few calls from my professional network soon grew into a consulting business. Friends and former colleagues asked for content strategy, AI integration, and digital growth advice. Their trust gave me the confidence to launch Blueberri Consulting, a space where I could help others reimagine what’s possible in the food tech world.

“I decided to bet on myself and prove that my experience and passion were more than enough.”

Starting a business from scratch was daunting. I worried about whether people would take me seriously without a degree. But my clients didn’t care about the letters after my name—they cared about the results I could deliver.

Through Blueberri, I’ve been able to work on projects that truly excite me. I help food bloggers scale their businesses with AI, guide small food tech companies toward growth, and develop educational resources to empower others.

Lessons I’ve Learned Along the Way

1. Resilience is a Skill You Can Build.

While facing a layoff and the paper ceiling was definitely a challenge, it also became a catalyst for growth. By reframing the experience, I turned it into an opportunity to innovate and lead.

Facing a layoff and the paper ceiling wasn’t easy, but it became a catalyst for growth. I reframed the experience and turned it into an opportunity to innovate and lead.

2. Relationships Matter.

The support I received from my network was invaluable. Those early calls and collaborations were more than just professional interactions; they were reminders of the importance of cultivating genuine connections throughout your career. These relationships were a safety net during tough times and a catalyst for my growth and creativity.

3. Passion and Expertise Go Hand in Hand.

My deep knowledge of food tech gave me credibility, but I wanted to help creators and businesses grow and succeed, which made my work truly meaningful. This combination of expertise and drive is not just a winning formula but a testament to the value of our unique skills and experiences in shaping our career success.

4. The Value of Lived Experience.

While a degree might open doors, experience builds the foundation for long-term success. My hands-on work in food tech gave me insights no classroom could replicate.

What’s Next for Food Tech Leadership

Today, I focus on empowering food bloggers and small businesses to harness emerging technologies, especially AI, to scale their operations and unlock new monetization opportunities. Through Blueberri Consulting, I want to guide and inspire my clients to innovate confidently.

2025 is a year of growth—not just for me but for everyone I collaborate with. From educational courses and webinars to consulting projects, I’m committed to helping the food tech community thrive in a rapidly changing market.

Overcoming the Paper Ceiling and Imposter Syndrome

If you’ve ever felt held back by not fitting the “traditional” mold, let me tell you: Your skills, experience, and vision define your worth—not a piece of paper. It’s in the work you’ve done, the skills you’ve built, and the passion you bring to the table.

Imposter syndrome might try to convince you otherwise, but remember: The people who matter—the ones who will hire you, collaborate with you, or trust you to lead—care about the value you provide, not where you studied.

Building Blueberri Consulting was my way of breaking the paper ceiling and proving that expertise and creativity can be at the same table with credentials. And if I can do it, so can you.

Your Next Chapter Can Start Today

As I continue my journey, I’m grateful for the challenges that pushed me to grow, the community that supported me, and the vision that drives me every day.

Feeling stuck or ready to take your career to the next level? Let’s connect. Whether you’re a food blogger looking to scale or a business navigating innovation, I’d love to help you reimagine what’s possible.