We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Crystal J a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Crystal , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?
I am a resilient entrepreneur, determined to thrive even after my divorce. Through my custom t-shirt designs, I have found a way to not only survive but also support myself and my daughters. With unwavering dedication, I transform my creativity into wearable art, bringing joy to those who wear my designs. This venture has become more than just a means of income; it symbolizes my strength, resilience, and commitment to providing a better future for my family.
Crystal , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Amid the pandemic, I encountered slow days with no orders for my t-shirt business, but I embraced the opportunity to expand my horizons. As a podcast host, I used my platform to share insights, interviews, and stories, staying engaged with my audience and attracting new listeners. This multi-faceted approach allowed me to stay relevant, diversify my income streams, and foster growth in both endeavors.
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
Networking with strangers is a vital aspect of growing both my audience and t-shirt business. By connecting with individuals outside my immediate circle, I tap into new perspectives and potential customers. Engaging in conversations, attending industry events, and leveraging social media platforms enable me to build valuable relationships and expand my reach. These connections not only increase brand visibility but also open doors to collaborations, partnerships, and opportunities that fuel the growth and success of my t-shirt business.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
One important lesson I had to unlearn was expecting everyone to support me like they do celebrities. Despite my initial belief, I realized that genuine support is not guaranteed. Instead, I focused on building a strong and loyal customer base through authentic connections and delivering exceptional value.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.thecrystaljexperience.com
- Instagram: tshirtenvybycrystalj
- Facebook: The Crystal J Experience
- Twitter: thecrystaljexp
- Youtube: The Crystal J Experience
- Other: Tiktok thecrystaljexp
Image Credits
Photography is by Ari Talton for Miss Ari Photos I love her!