On March 31st, I did something some might call foolish. Others might call it brave. Me? I’m still not sure which camp I fall into. Maybe both.
After years of working in a stable, well-paying role as Vice President of Software Engineering at Shift4 (formerly Givex), I handed in my resignation.
No drama. No burned bridges. Just a quiet, resolute decision to pivot–to step away from the safety net and walk toward something less certain, but far more aligned with who I am and what I want next.
If you’re expecting a tell-all or corporate takedown, you’ll be disappointed. This isn’t that. In fact, I’m deeply grateful for everything Givex and Shift4 have given me: the experiences, the challenges, the friendships, the growth. That chapter helped shape the professional (and person) I am today, and I’ll always respect that.
Why Leave?
Because growth has many forms. And sometimes, staying put feels like slowly going stale. You look around and realize you’re solving the same types of problems, having the same conversations, chasing the same outcomes. It’s not that it’s bad. It’s just not enough anymore.
For me, the whisper I’d ignored for a while turned into a shout. A nudge became a push. And eventually, I had to ask myself:
Was I staying because it was still right, or because it was still comfortable?
The answer came easily once I stopped pretending that I hadn’t already decided.
What’s Next?
So here I am. Soon to be self-employed again. A little older, hopefully wiser, definitely more prepared. I’ve done this before, but never quite like this. Never with this much clarity or focus.
I’m building my company (JMG) into something that excites me–a company that helps businesses use tech, AI, and automation to market smarter, work faster, and reclaim their time. Some businesses aim to scale, others want to optimize for lifestyle. Either way, the right systems make it possible without burning out.
That’s who I’m showing up for now.
And while I’ll primarily be offering fractional CTO and associated services, I’m not shelving my marketing background either. Messaging still matters. Tech alone doesn’t move the needle if the story doesn’t land. So yes, if the fit’s right, I’ll be available for fractional CMO work, too.
Over the next couple of weeks, I’ll be wrapping up a few final projects and laying the groundwork. Then it’s full steam ahead.
Open, Not Overextended
I’ll be open to the right strategic opportunities and select conversations where there’s alignment. If something I’ve said resonates or fits a gap you’re trying to solve, feel free to reach out.
Final Thoughts
Am I scared? No. I believe in my abilities–always have. But that doesn’t mean I’m not aware of the risks. Am I hopeful? Absolutely.
Some people will see this as lunacy. Others will call it a leap of faith. I think they’re both right.
If you’re at a crossroads, if something inside you is whispering (or shouting), you’re not alone. Change is messy. It’s rarely convenient. But if you’re lucky, it’s also the start of something incredible.
Thanks for reading, and remember …
#StayFrosty!
James
