Sep 11, 2025

I Left a Comfortable 9–5 For Something More Meaningful

Breaking into medical device sales isn’t easy. Some people try for months without getting a single interview. But Jack Pirozzi made the jump in just six weeks. Here’s his journey from commercial real estate to one of the largest medical device companies and what he learned along the way.

Who Is Jack Pirozzi

Jack grew up in South Florida with a twin brother, Jack pitched and his brother caught, a pretty cool combo. When he wasn’t on the baseball field, he worked in his family’s restaurant doing everything from bussing tables to working the register.

He went on to Indiana University, joined the business school, and after graduating landed in commercial real estate in Houston, Texas. He didn’t know anyone there but adapted quickly, built a good routine, and from the outside it looked like life was great.

Choosing Medical Device Sales Over Other Careers

In real estate, Jack had a steady 9-to-5. Run in the morning, work all day, gym, guitar, bed. It was comfortable. But he felt something was missing.

He realized he didn’t just want a paycheck he wanted a career where he could serve others. That’s when medical device sales caught his attention. Unlike real estate, it gave him the chance to play a part in helping patients.

What Motivated the Switch Into Medical Device Sales

Jack’s motivation runs deep. As a baby, he suffered a grade 4 brain hemorrhage with hydrocephalus and had to undergo multiple spinal taps. Medical professionals and technology saved his life.

Because of that, he’s always wanted to pay it forward. In medical device sales, especially in his new role in neuromodulation and chronic pain therapies, he can do exactly that help people regain their independence and quality of life.

Experience in the Interview Process

Jack joined Jacob’s program and went all-in: networking calls, modules, everything. At first, nothing happened and it felt discouraging. But then it flipped.

  • Week 5: A hiring manager called out of the blue with an open position.

  • Three days later: Jack was on a plane to Las Vegas for a field ride. He met the team, had dinner, and even saw cases in the OR — his first time since being a baby.

  • He showed he was ready to move fast, answered questions with confidence but stayed humble, and leaned on the strengths you can’t fake — being coachable, curious, and empathetic.

  • Next day after the VP call: He had an offer.

From no progress to a signed offer in less than two weeks.

Moving Anywhere in the US to Succeed

One thing that stood out about Jack: he didn’t let location hold him back.

  • He’d already moved to Houston after college knowing no one, just to take a good opportunity.

  • For med device sales, he kept the same mindset: be willing to go wherever the company needs you.

  • His thinking: “If you get the company and division you want, that’s a win. You’ve got to be willing to move.”

That flexibility showed hiring managers he was hungry and serious.

Jack’s Advice to Newcomers to Medical Device Sales

Here’s Jack’s straight talk for anyone trying to break in:

  1. Be yourself. People spot fake fast. Build genuine connections.

  2. Believe in yourself first. Confidence comes before ability.

  3. Take action daily. Even when you’re getting told “no,” keep showing up.

  4. Focus on what can’t be taught. Things like empathy, coachability, and genuine curiosity stand out more than fancy experience.

  5. Stay patient. It may feel slow, then suddenly things happen fast.

Final Thoughts

Jack’s story proves two things: you don’t need years of sales or clinical experience, and opportunities move fast when you’re prepared. From a comfortable but unfulfilling 9-to-5 to helping patients get their lives back, Jack made the leap by staying coachable, moving quickly, and focusing on his “why.”

If you’re aiming for medical device sales, remember his advice: be real, stay hungry, and don’t be afraid to move where opportunity calls.

Want More Details?

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All the best,

Jacob McLaughlin

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