In BizBlend Podcast, hosted by Sana, we get honest about what it really takes to walk away from “stable” work when your nervous system is quietly waving a red flag. Katharina (Katie) Huang shares her shift from machine learning and data science into building travel adventure puzzle books—without romanticizing the leap.

This episode is for founders, professionals, and anyone stuck between security and soul. You’ll hear how Katie defines “safe risks,” why clarity often comes after confusion, and how to build a transition that respects both your creativity and your need for a safety net.

About the Guest:

Katharina (Katie) Huang is a former data science professional who left the tech industry after burnout and uncertainty during COVID. She is now an indie author creating travel adventure puzzle game books and also fronts a metal band.

Episode Chapters:

1. 02:18 The episode focus: corporate-to-solo transition and uncertainty
2. 05:04 From algorithms to puzzles: the real story behind the pivot
3. 09:15 “Safe risks” vs. reckless moves: how Katie defines the difference
4. 12:12 When life breaks the stability myth: burnout, family health, urgency
5. 20:34 Clarity doesn’t arrive overnight: doubt, depression, and slow decisions
6. 31:00 Do you miss corporate? “Absolutely not.” Using feelings as a metric

Key Takeaway:

1. Define a risk you can afford to lose: if it fails, can you still pay rent and survive 6 months?
2. Build a transition runway: Katie stayed 2–3 more years to save before leaving.
3. Separate “leaving” from “finding your dream”: sometimes you leave because you’re burned out, then you design what’s next.
4. Use a systematic approach outside corporate: treat marketing/ads like experiments, not chaos.
5. Let emotion be data too: track how choices affect your energy, not just numbers.
6. Keep your safety net: choose where to go all-in (inventory) and where to stay light (print-on-demand).

How to Connect With the Guest:

Website: https://vegoutvoyage.com/

(Also mentioned: her books are available on Amazon.)

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