I quit Bain after a 43-hour workday and now own an outdoor adventure business. Consulting prepared me for anything.
Business Insider
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Sunny Stroeer’s journey from a successful consultant at Bain to becoming a professional adventurer and outdoor business owner highlights how her consulting experience laid the foundation for her entrepreneurial ventures in the high-stakes world of adventure sports. After 12 years at Bain, Stroeer left due to burnout but credits her time there with equipping her with critical skills like strategic thinking, problem-solving, and resilience. These skills have been instrumental in managing outdoor expeditions and running businesses, such as her Utah-based guiding service and an expedition company catering to women. Her story underscores the importance of leveraging transferable skills from consulting into unconventional career paths.
Stroeer’s pivot was driven by a desire to pursue passions aligned with personal fulfillment rather than professional accolades. She initially had no clear vision but found purpose in addressing gender bias in outdoor adventures, recognizing her unique position to advocate for change. Her experiences demonstrate that success in consulting can translate seamlessly into other high-pressure environments, as seen in her strategic decision-making during extreme adventures like the Iditarod Trail or while climbing El Capitan.
For readers interested in business, Stroeer’s story highlights the adaptability of consulting skills and the importance of aligning career choices with personal values. Her ability to navigate crises, such as leading her business through the COVID-19 pandemic, showcases how problem-solving frameworks from consulting can be applied to diverse challenges. This illustrates that professional growth doesn’t require sticking to traditional paths but rather embracing opportunities for transformation and innovation.
Her journey also emphasizes the value of self-awareness and finding balance in high-stress environments. By recognizing her burnout and redefining success on her own terms, Stroeer exemplifies how consulting’s emphasis on efficiency and output can coexist with a meaningful, passion-driven career. Her story is not just about switching careers but about reimagining success to align with one’s values and aspirations.
Ultimately, Sunny Stroeer’s experience serves as an inspiration for professionals considering alternative paths after consulting. It demonstrates that while consulting provides valuable skills, the courage to pursue personal passions can lead to fulfilling and impactful careers, even in industries far removed from traditional business settings. Her ability to bridge her consulting background with a commitment to gender equity
Verticals
businessfinance
Originally published on Business Insider on 2/26/2026