Today we’d like to introduce you to Jean Criss.

Hi Jean, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
About Jean Criss – As an accomplished professional with over 25 years of experience in corporate media and tech, Jean Criss founded four successful e-commerce companies, demonstrating her innovative brand-building and entrepreneurial prowess. Leading these ventures for over 12 years, she has exemplified the strength and creativity of a woman-owned business enterprise. Her product innovations span various industries, including general business (digital media, marketing campaigns, video, TV productions), healthcare, fashion, retail/e-commerce (post-surgical intimate apparel, medical garments, costume jewelry), and technology (factory floor automation, mobile devices). With certifications in sustainable and immersive fashion design, digital media, and AI, Jean is a prominent figure in the industry, frequently appearing on TV, podcasts, and live radio.
Jean is a philanthropist and passionate advocate for global women in business, actively supporting their voices, growth, and empowerment. Her dedication to continuous learning and staying updated on new technologies and emerging trends enables her to navigate the ever-evolving realms of media, tech, and business with resilience and fortitude. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jean is a successful author with five self-published books on Amazon and hundreds of articles featured in prominent business, entrepreneur, and fashion magazines.
Relatable and vulnerable, she shares inspiring stories through her influential social media presence. Jean’s unwavering belief in self and women’s empowerment drives her to effect change, using her voice and words to champion the idea that anything is possible—because she is possible. Her creativity, positivity, and passion for innovation fuel her pursuit of experiential marketing, establishing her as a true changemaker in media and tech.
Explore Jean Criss’ ventures further through her portfolio at [Linktr.ee/jeancriss](https://Linktr.ee/jeancriss), her AI showcase at [showspace.so/s/jean-criss](https://showspace.so/s/jean-criss), and her personal profile on [LinkedIn](https://LinkedIn.com/in/jean-criss).

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Starting your own business is never an easy path. It takes risk and patience. Resilience and fortitude. An ability to look beyond the petty things that come your way and have a vision to pursue your dreams and achieve goals. The challenges I’ve faced have been many as a woman owned business enterprise entering new marketplaces as a “newbie” in unchartered territory. Being accepted by seasoned professionals who have long been established in specific market segments, especially when I entered as a newcomer without extensive expertise, was a daunting challenge. But I learned along the way and made things happen in fashion, tech, healthcare, and other industries and am proud of my accomplishments. I became an author when I did not expect to do so. I began writing as a form of healing, and it grew into something much bigger from there. Recognized for my work in media and publishing, I navigated my way through self-publishing channels to bring 5 book titles to market without a publisher and promoted on social media. Sometimes you don’t need to be an expert in all industries but if you are willing to learn new things in life, apply your skills, you are able to achieve the desired results. This has been my approach when challenged — I listen, apply skill sets and best practices, partner with outside resources as needed to make things happen. I thrive on bringing positivity into my work ethics and welcome new business opportunities.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Coming from the corporate marketplace, I transitioned with excellent leadership skills in sales and management roles in media and publishing to lead teams and multiple sales offices in print, digital, online and television. Then, I took that expertise to create my own business, Jean Criss Media, over ten years ago. I never realized I had such a creative side in my work. In a corporate role, the focus is often on achieving specific goals and aligning with the company’s directives. Branching out in different directions isn’t always encouraged, as I experienced firsthand when I sought permission to explore new ideas. As an entrepreneur, I discovered the freedom to explore every aspect of my work—from artistic and creative endeavors to management, operations, collaborations, and partnerships. From the beginning, I realized I had a wealth of energy, creativity, and innovation to offer, which exhilarated me and fueled my drive forward. Once I started, it was hard to stop and look back. I applied the lessons I learned in corporate settings to my start-up businesses and team-building efforts, which proved transformative for managing multiple ventures successfully from the start. I’ve come to believe that this creative role is where I truly belong.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to have many mentors who have guided me in various aspects of my work. From learning how to create my first P&L in publishing to applying those skills in daily business management, I’ve gained invaluable insights into partnership, networking, and public speaking. These mentors have shared essential tips, best practices, and experiences that have significantly shaped my professional journey. I’ve found that being open to input, advice, and constructive criticism is crucial for success. Many entrepreneurs may have strong egos, but embracing the guidance of mentors and advocates is key. Listening carefully and conducting thorough research before making decisions is vital to achieving one’s full potential.

Pricing:

• FREE 15 min Business Consult at JeanCrissMedia.com (signup on our consult or contact pages
• 20% off first order at CRISSCROSSIntimates.com (promo20 at checkout)

Contact Info:

• Website: https://JeanCrissMedia.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/jeancriss
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/jeancrissmedia
• Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/jean-criss
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/jean_criss
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/jcriss0011/videos
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/jean-criss-media-new-york-city
• Other: https://linktr.ee/jeancriss

Image Credits
Images by Jean Criss Media, LLC 2024.