We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jaclynn Robinson, Ph.D. a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Jaclynn thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being a business owner force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?
I am happier as a business owner because I have greater control over my work routine and the clients and partners I interact with. As a result, I’ve been able to have greater success in managing my overall wellbeing. It still takes a hit here and there, because owning a business is not for the faint hearted, but in general I have more time for exercise, personal relationships, and hobbies. When the going gets tough though, it’s very easy to think about the perceived safety net of working for someone else, with a steady paycheck and a better benefits package! I say “perceived,” given companies lay employees off, especially in this current environment. When I think back to working for an organization however, I still can’t imagine giving up this life, even though the last few months I’ve been immersed in family responsibilities that have limited my bandwidth. I remind myself that it’s a season in time and it will pass. I also see how this experience shapes my ability to relate to and coach professionals undergoing a similar experience. Per the AARP, as of 2025 there are 63 million Americans with caretaking responsibilities! That’s a lot of professionals struggling to manage their careers, family, hobbies and wellbeing. In the long run, I can take this experience and apply it in a positive and meaningful way.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I’m a sociologist, criminologist, and international psychologist by trade. To say I love people and culture is an understatement! My mission in life is to elevate people and celebrate culture. I apply my trades to business by serving as an executive coach to chief executives and senior leaders, a performance coach to managers and professionals, and an organizational consultant across industries. My focus is on wellbeing, employee engagement, strengths-based development, and performance. The ultimate goal or challenge often relates to higher productivity, greater retention, an increase in sales, an engaged and thriving workforce, happier customers, less absenteeism, greater profits and so forth. I think what makes my practice unique is that I inherently take into consideration the wellbeing of the individual or organization, the ripple effect of their goal or challenge on others, the culture of the organization, and the current socioeconomic situation of their country. As a sociologist and international psychologist in particular, I’m trained to see how outside factors and global phenomena impact individuals, teams, workplaces and cultures. I’ve traveled to six continents, over 50 countries, and over 40 states in the U.S., so I make it a goal to immerse myself in other cultures! What I’m most proud of is when I see a professional, a team, or an organization see the innate talent they hold within themselves and lean into it to achieve their goals, overcome challenges, and walk away with higher wellbeing and greater purpose.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
Saying “Yes” when I really wanted to say ‘No.” I had to learn that “no” or “I’m sorry, I’m currently at capacity” is necessary to maintain alignment with my own goals and purpose and to maintain my wellbeing. When my physical, mental and emotional wellbeing finally took a toll and I was having regular panic attacks in the morning before starting work, I knew things had to change. How could I be more concerned about people pleasing then my own health? It’s hard to unlearn, because saying “no” is a boundary and boundaries are difficult for many people to draw. However, it gets easier over time. I encourage others to start small. Say “no” to something minimal. Do it again. Then again. When an individual realizes the world keeps moving and those around them understand, the fear of boundaries begins to fade. It’s also just as equally important to remember that those who don’t respect the boundaries you draw probably aren’t interested in what’s best for you. Consider how you can move them outside of your network if it’s personal or consider your next best professional move if it’s work related.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
My core values are related to being genuine, optimistic, curious and passionate about people. I truly love people and culture. I don’t like being hard sold on anything because it feels less personal. I love getting to know someone, I care about their wellbeing, and I freely help and give out referrals where I can. Over time, those connections made one-on-one, with teams or with organizations has built my brand.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jaclynnrobinson.com
- Instagram: drjaclynnrobinson
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaclynnrobinson
Image Credits
Pavel Gabzdyl
Chezeray Photography