We had the good fortune of connecting with Logan Fleck and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Logan, what’s the most important thing you’ve done for your children?

When I finally stepped away from the startup scene, it wasn’t some sort of noble, slow-motion walk away. No, it was more like, ‘I’ve got to get out of here before I turn into a walking, talking stress-ball.’ Quitting my VP role and starting my own gig wasn’t just about chasing a dream; it was survival, you know? And that decision, that moment, I think it’s made all the difference for my kids.

Here’s the thing: they’re not just hearing about work-life balance from some corporate brochure. They’re seeing it, live and unedited, with me as their somewhat scattered but always there mom. They’re getting this up-close look at what it means to love what you do but also know when to shut the laptop and play tag in the backyard.

I mean, sure, I’m trying to teach them about hard work and commitment, but also that it’s totally fine to hit pause and just breathe. Life’s too short to be lived in fast-forward, right?

Balancing my business and being a mom is like walking a tightrope, and trust me, I’m no acrobat. But here’s the real deal: my kids are watching. They’re learning that it’s okay to build a life that’s a bit off the beaten path, that’s maybe a little unconventional but totally, authentically you.

So, by stepping away from that high-pressure job, I hope I’m showing them something valuable. That life’s not about keeping up with everyone else. It’s about finding what makes you tick and going after it, even if it’s a bit scary, even if you stumble. It’s about showing up, being present, and, yeah, sometimes making pancakes for dinner because, why not?

I want them to see that building something meaningful – whether it’s a business, a hobby, or just a really great day – can be messy, fun, and totally worth it. And if they learn that from my crazy leap into the unknown, then I’d say it’s the biggest win of all.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Growing up as the poster child for ADHD—energetic and a bit rebellious—I always felt constrained by the rules and restrictions around me. After college in New York, I found myself at a small communications and events company. Creative? Somewhat. But it was stifling, and I often felt like the square peg trying to fit into a round hole, cracking jokes and challenging norms in a sea of straight-laced conformity. Then the ’09 recession hit, and like many, it forced me to reassess everything. I doubled down, pursued my Master’s in Marketing and Media Management, and made a bold move from Chicago to Boston, landing a job in the life sciences sector. I was the new kid on the block, ready to shake things up with digital transformation ideas. But let me tell you, trying to shift old school mindsets was like talking to a brick wall.

Fast forward through a series of Director roles, and I find myself as a VP of Marketing at a fast-growing tech startup based in England. But then life threw curveballs—global pandemic, a new baby, personal losses, and health battles. I was stretched thin, working all hours, barely sleeping, and struggling to be present for my newborn and all the other avatars I had to juggle. Overwhelmed, I reached a breaking point. I needed a reset, and I needed it badly.

That’s when I launched Fuse Virtual Services in January 2022. It’s a culmination of my experiences and a direct response to the corporate constraints that once caged me. As a fusion of marketing consulting and virtual business operations management, I now act as a strategic partner for businesses, helping them streamline, enhance their marketing, and manage operations. This allows them to focus on their core strengths while I handle the complexities.

The diversity of the work is incredibly stimulating. Each day brings a new challenge, a new puzzle to solve—whether crafting a nuanced marketing strategy or optimizing operational workflows. But beyond the variety, it’s the impact that truly rewards me. Witnessing the growth of my clients’ businesses and helping them achieve a work-life balance they never thought possible is profoundly gratifying. I’m not just a service provider; I’m a valued ally in their journey, sharing in their victories and growth.

The autonomy I now enjoy is empowering. I choose my projects, set my own schedule, and dictate my rates. It’s a stark contrast to my previous roles and a testament to the professional ethos and personal evolution that Fuse Virtual Services represents. It’s more than a business; it’s a commitment to making a meaningful impact every day, blending my creativity, strategic thinking, and passion for helping others into a career that’s as rewarding as it is challenging.

Being part of a community of entrepreneurs and professionals is invaluable. We share insights, support each other, and create a dynamic network of growth and learning. It’s a reciprocal ecosystem where knowledge is exchanged and mutual support is the norm.

Fuse Virtual Services isn’t just my business; it’s the embodiment of my journey—from a caged bird in a corporate world to a strategic partner helping others fly. It’s about making a living and making a difference, challenging norms, and embracing the energy and creativity that has always defined me. And every day, it’s a reminder that the most significant changes often come from the most challenging moments.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting New England, where legends and cosmic vortexes are woven into the very fabric of the place, I’d have the perfect week planned out. Now, I’d totally be up for some ghost-hunting, but knowing her, it’s not really her thing. Instead, we’d kick off our adventure in a charming spot along the coast called Nonquitt. We’d rent a cozy beach house, the kind with a porch that whispers tales of the sea, and wake up to the sound of waves.

Our days would be filled with little adventures. We’d take a trip to Newport, RI, known for its stunning coastline and rich history. There, we’d indulge in the freshest oysters you can imagine and lose ourselves in quaint boutiques and art galleries. As the sun sets, we’d find ourselves back at our beach haven, ready for a night swim under the stars. The water, cool and inviting, would be the perfect prelude to an evening by a crackling fire.

With the night sky above us, we’d roast marshmallows, craft the perfect s’mores, and dive into those deep, existential conversations that only happen with your closest friend. And, if I could sneak it in, a little ghost story to honor the spirit of New England, just to see her eyes roll and hear her laugh.

Throughout the week, we’d explore more hidden gems of the area. Maybe a day trip to a nearby town known for its quirky shops and local eateries, or a hike through trails that offer breathtaking views and a hint of mystery. We’d visit farmers’ markets, picking up fresh, local produce and artisanal goodies for impromptu picnics.

Evenings would be about relaxation and reflection. We’d find a local spot with live music, sipping on something delicious and just soaking in the vibe. It’s about showing her the soul of New England, the blend of beauty, history, and a touch of the mystical. By the end of the week, she’d understand why this place is more than just a spot on the map for me; it’s a tapestry of stories, scenery, and spirit. And who knows, maybe she’d even come around to the idea of a little ghost-hunting adventure for next time!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
If I’m shouting from the rooftops about the folks who’ve thrown me a lifeline on this wild ride, I’ve got to tip my hat to Belinda Sandor and her VA School. Let me tell you, she’s like the entrepreneur’s guardian angel, helping folks dodge burnout by taking some of those pesky tasks off their plate. Her course? A total game-changer. It yanked me out of the ‘yes ma’am’ corporate mindset and nudged me towards a more thoughtful approach to running my own show.

Belinda’s school didn’t just tweak my thinking; it laid down the bricks for the whole foundation. We’re talking the nitty-gritty of business ownership, the stuff they don’t tell you about in glossy brochures. Plus, the community there is nothing short of amazing. I’ve snagged clients through it and always felt like Belinda was right there, ready to mentor and cheer us on. Seriously, check her out at Belinda’s website. She’s doing something special over there.

And then there’s this book, ‘Orbiting the Giant Hairball’ by Gordon MacKenzie. Ever feel like you’re tangled in a big, old mess of rules and systems? This book gets it. MacKenzie was with Hallmark Cards for decades, and he’s all about breaking free from the corporate cobwebs and soaring into your own creative space. It’s like he’s giving you a permission slip to cut loose and carve out your own path. After leaving the startup grind, that book was like a breath of fresh air. So, if you’re looking to shake things up and step out of the shadows, give it a read. It’s all about escaping mediocrity and making your mark, your way.

Website: logan@fusevirtualservices.com

Instagram: @lfleck2429

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loganfleck/

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