Tell us a bit about yourself! How did you get started with your current career path/business journey?
My name is Jourdan Guyton. I am a TV producer, Content Strategist, and Entrepreneur. I have a strong TV production background and have been in the business for nearly 10yrs. I spent 3 years working at The Maury Show as an AP. Last year I sold a comedic web series I co-created to BET Digital. I have casted some of your favorite shows like Flea Market Flip on HGTV and Kids Say the Darnedest Things on ABC. I can confidently say that I have an eye for talent and content as I have experience in front and behind the camera. In the spring of 2020 I launched Vera Jean Media, a boutique agency specializing in production, content strategy, and social media marketing. I find joy in helping female entrepreneurs, service providers, and storytellers create a content strategy that’ll attract dream clients.How are you overcoming challenges during the pandemic as a business owner?
The pandemic really forced a lot of us to pivot. TV Production stopped almost immediately and I knew I had to play to my strengths. I had to decide that I wasn’t going to give up. My skills could be utilized elsewhere. I always knew I wanted to be a business owner so I birthed something so special during this time. Named after my grandma, at Vera Jean Media was created to remind me that my purpose was not on pause. Although everything was turned upside down, lemonade had to be made out of these lemons!
What behavior or personality trait do you most attribute your success to, and why?
Ambition and Faith. Bottom line, I'm a go-getter. Failure is not an option. There are so many desires that God has placed on my heart and "If He brought you to it, He will see you through it." Period.
What’s a mistake you made early on in your career, and what did you learn from it?
One lesson I learned early on is that I can't say "Yes" to everything. I am one person and I would find myself getting spread too thin thinking that I could do every speaking engagement, audition, meeting, strategy session, etc. Nope!
What’s one professional skill you’re currently working on?
Often it feels like the days are going by faster and faster. At the beginning of the pandemic, time felt like it was dragging. Now...100mph. I am working on managing the hours that I have in a day. Dedicating my energy where it matters most.
In what ways are you taking care of your personal well being and what are your #selfcare tips?
I am an advocate for therapy - it's something I truly look forward to every month. Zoom calls have definitely become life lol - I have a few friends that are long distance and we have bi-weekly standing calls to catch up on all the tea! Fitness has always been an outlet for me as well. I have a spin bike in my room and I also love to run once or twice a week outside. It's important to unplug and take a step back from work to recharge. You can't pour from an empty cup!
How are you inviting others to take a seat at the table #virtually?
I'm inviting others to take a seat at the table #virtually by sharing resources. I have a monthly newsletter that I send out called "Create. Collaborate. Elevate." Every month is filled with resources, grants, mental health tips, and more to help the everyday creative and entrepreneur gain access to the great things available for us. There are enough loans, grants, and resources to go around. We all can win!
What impact has Luminary made in your career? eg: Business Generated, Revenue, New Clients, Career Connections, Advancement Opportunities
Luminary has been such a supportive outlet. I love the community that is tied to this mission. I feel as though they make us all feel seen. I love that we have access to one another. To be surrounded by other powerhouse women...it's so bomb to me.
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