From PhD in Chemistry to Bicoastal Agency Owner: How Erin Fortin Learned to Take Up Space

What happens when you realize the corporate life you worked so hard to build isn't the one you actually want to live?In this episode of the True Icon Podcast, Jen sits down with Erin Fortin- a PhD chemist who left her 24/7 job working on multi-million dollar robots at Intel to build a thriving, bicoastal photography agency.Erin opens up about the terrifying but liberating decision to bet on herself, the power of surrounding yourself with people who inspire you, and why "taking up space" is the opposite of being egotistical—it’s actually how we help others. Erin also shares her deeply personal story of surviving a stroke at 37 as a healthy marathon runner. It was a terrifying wake-up call that radically shifted her perspective on health, hustle culture, and what it truly means to build a legacy today.If you’ve ever felt the quiet pull that there is "more" out there for you, or if you are navigating your own career pivot, this conversation will give you the courage to go find it.If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review! It helps us bring more authentic stories to listeners like you.TakeawaysTaking up space: Sharing your story isn't egotistical-it empowers others.The pivot: How to leave a rigid corporate job for a fulfilling creative business.Community is everything: Surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you.Health over hustle: Why your well-being is the ultimate business strategy.Legacy is now: It’s built through your daily actions, not just what you leave behind.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Career Transition08:10 Transition from Engineering to Photography19:16 Starting the Photography Business27:38 Challenges and Growth in Business35:25 Balancing Business Ownership and Vulnerability48:18 Building a Legacy Through Actions and ValuesWhere to Find Erin FortinInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/erinfortinphotoWebsite: https://www.erinfortinphotography.comWhere to Find Jen DeGroff & TrueIconInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/beatrueiconWebsite: https://beatrueicon.com/?utm_source=TI_PodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferdegroff/About the True Icon PodcastHosted by Jennifer (Jen) DeGroff, the TrueIcon Podcast is a conversational interview show about authenticity, leading with values, growth, and redefining success on your own terms. We celebrate the hidden sides of people, normalize imperfection, break down judgments, and lift people up. Whether you are navigating a career change, building a business, or just trying to find your voice, this is your space to feel worthy, capable, and empowered to step into your greatness.#staytrueandboldlygrow