Chapter 1: Unemployment Begins

It finally happened. Yesterday, I was let go from my Data Engineering position at VMware.

Over the past year, VMware has gradually been integrated into Broadcom, the hardware giant. Similar to Broadcom's previous acquisitions, this one also resulted in significant layoffs. Although I don't have the exact figures, I believe about 15,000 others are also set to lose their jobs. We had anticipated this outcome for some time, given Broadcom's history, but it has undoubtedly been a challenging period for many of us.

This was truly my DREAM job. I put in immense effort to land this position—more than I have for anything else in my life. I outperformed PhD candidates, learned a programming language in just a weekend, and dedicated years preparing for this opportunity. The news was genuinely heartbreaking.

However, I subscribe to stoic philosophy, which guides me to view this as a moment for growth rather than despair.

I refuse to dwell on self-pity or consider this a setback. I will be okay. Understanding the unpredictability of corporate life, I took steps to shield myself from the immediate financial impact of this job loss, including:

• Three months of savings already in place
• Two months of pay from the WARN Act
• Two months of severance
• Affordable rent in Reno
• Three years of cultivating a strong professional network

Interestingly, on my first day of unemployment, I secured a brand deal to produce a YouTube video for a company that will pay me more than my previous rate as a data engineer. I can't wait to share this project with everyone soon!

If there was ever a perfect moment to fully commit to my own endeavors, it’s now.

Moving forward, the Friday edition of The Jailbreak will be exclusively for premium members. While everyone will continue to receive valuable posts on unlocking freedom and success in the digital landscape every Tuesday, premium subscribers will enjoy an even more candid and insightful newsletter every Friday.

I manage this newsletter entirely by myself while juggling a full-time job; just imagine how much more impactful it will be now that I’m not dedicating eight hours daily to someone else’s vision.

If you're interested in supporting my journey, click here. I promise not to disappoint!

Video of the Week: I Got Laid Off... Again (Working in Tech Is Hard)

See you Friday for the first members-only edition!

• Jack Ross

Thank you for reading this installment of THE JAILBREAK! If you'd like to see more weekly articles like this, consider subscribing to my newsletter, The Jailbreak, or check out my YouTube channel. Safe travels, and I look forward to seeing you next week. — Jack

About The Author

I’m Jack Ross, a Data Engineer, YouTuber, and writer. I have a passion for learning new things and enjoy coffee, skateboarding, and creating content. Feel free to connect with me through the following platforms:

• LinkedIn: Let's connect!
• YouTube: Check out my videos!
• Twitter: Follow for tech, memes, and skateboarding content.
• THE JAILBREAK: My weekly newsletter focused on tools, methods, and mindsets for achieving freedom in the digital age.

Chapter 2: Embracing New Opportunities

Having faced this setback, I’m excited to explore new horizons.

Video of the Week: I Got Laid Off from My Glorified Tech Job

It's time to turn the page and embark on a new journey!