Jonathan Kleisner, a former Wall Street millionaire, left his high-paying finance career to become a paramedic. His career change began after witnessing medics in action while rescuing a member of his hiking party.
“It was like a protest,” Kleisner told The New York Times. “I wasn’t serious. But I was sick of Wall Street.”
Kleisner sought a life where he could help others rather than chase wealth.
Volunteering and Training to Excellence
He started volunteering as an EMT in Central Park while still working in finance. Eventually, Kleisner left Wall Street to pursue full-time paramedic training, becoming one of the best-trained medics in the U.S.. He gave up millionaire status for a starting salary of $32,000 and now serves as a rescue medic in an elite FDNY unit.
Why Risk His Life?
Many ask why Kleisner chose a dangerous, low-paying job. He explained:
“It provides the same adrenaline and competition I felt in finance. But now, I get to save lives instead of earning just for myself.”
Life-Saving Experiences
Kleisner has faced numerous emergencies, including:
- Helping a man who suffered a stroke on the Empire State Building observation deck.
- Responding to a medical emergency during a Broadway show.
- Attending the deadliest fire in NYC in 30 years (2022), which claimed 17 lives and injured 44.
“Till today, I react whenever I think of the scene. My neck sweats, my heart rate increases, and I feel short of breath,” he said.
Career Change as an Escape
Kleisner sees leaving Wall Street as an escape, while recognizing the trauma that comes with saving lives:
“You have to learn how to live with all of this,” he said.
Jonathan Kleisner’s Career Timeline
- Worked at a Wall Street investment firm for 17 years (1996–2013).
- Served as a trustee at the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS).
- Joined the FDNY in 2012 as an EMT, eventually joining the elite team and becoming an instructor.
Jonathan Kleisner’s journey is a remarkable story of giving up wealth to serve others, demonstrating courage, dedication, and selflessness.
