On The Bold PhD podcast, Dr. Gertrude Nonterah interviewed Dr. Jen Harrison, a former English professor turned dissertation coach, about how being fired as a professor during COVID became the catalyst for building a thriving, education-centered business serving doctoral students.
Dr. Harrison explained that after years of short-term academic contracts in the U.S., COVID abruptly ended her adjunct position, stripping her of income, healthcare, and stability. Rather than uprooting her family or leaving education entirely, she chose a different path—launching a dissertation coaching business that allowed her to use her academic skills on her own terms.
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Dr. Harrison’s lessons learned
One of the biggest themes was undervaluing oneself, which Dr. Harrison identified as the most damaging mistake academics make when starting a business. Years of being trained to “do more for less” in academia can lead PhDs to undercharge, overwork, and tolerate unhealthy boundaries. Learning to charge fairly, protect time, and trust one’s expertise was central to her success.
Dr. Harrison also highlighted the power of niche specialization. Instead of trying to help everyone, she works primarily with women—especially women of color—offering dissertation support that blends coaching, editing, accountability, and emotional support.
Another key takeaway was that self-employment can provide more job security than academia. While leaving academia was terrifying, running her own business now gives her control over income, time, and boundaries—something she never had as an adjunct.
PhD Skills That Transfer to Business
Dr. Harrison credited two PhD-developed skills for her success: communication (persuasive writing, empathy, mentoring) and self-management (long-term project planning, motivation, and accountability).
Where to Find Dr. Harrison
- Website: https://www.readwriteperfect.com
- LinkedIn: Jen Harrison, PhD
For many academics who have been fired as a professor or feel trapped in unstable roles, Dr. Harrison’s story shows that building an education-centered business can offer both meaningful work and real security.