Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jorden Jackson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Jorden , appreciate you joining us today. We love asking folks what they would do differently if they were starting today – how they would speed up the process, etc. We’d love to hear how you would set everything up if you were to start from step 1 today.
Strategy strategy strategy. I would have spent way more time being thorough in my strategy. I was great at writing out my goals but the execution didn’t start out strong. I would get frustrated about not meeting my goals and it wasn’t until I started looking at things through the lens of the 12-Week Year (great book!) that I was able to break down my goals into bite-sized strategies. I still often get overwhelmed with the big picture and have to remind myself about this process.
Jorden , 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?
Through experimentation, research, and a relentless drive to improve, I was inspired to create Smokestack Collective. I wanted a safe place for small business owners to begin their journey. Back in September of 2022, I embarked on my own journey, establishing Smokestack Collective as my official brainchild. Since then I’ve been hard at work refining my craft and making connections along the way.
I’m a lover of people, laughter, and all things alternative wellness and self-care. I have a passion for creating meaningful connections and am always on the lookout for humor in life’s twists and turns.
Currently based in Chattanooga, TN
Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
Word of mouth has been huge- but I think a huge reason it’s been working so well is my personal approach during the discovery process. I take the time to really sit and listen through their story, which often includes some sort of inspirational moment that led them to where they are today, usually leaving me in tears. It’s not rare for me to connect with my clients as if they were kindred spirits. Crying and laughing together within mere minutes of meeting one another. These bonds fuel my work like no other.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?
I can’t explain the amount of abstract energy being creative takes… I would feel so terrible being exhausted after a day of sitting on my butt designing when my sister or partner would come home from their work after being on their feet all day. I felt like a faker..and still do. I’ll often jump up when I hear the door knob jiggle as if to try not to look so casual while working.
I promise any judgment that a noncreative may have isn’t a fraction of how hard we are on ourselves… we already feel like imposters so please don’t pass judgments on how we spend our energy. Trust us- we know.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.smokestackcollective.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smokestackco/
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/jorden-jackson-b4a5b1237
Image Credits
@smokestackco (i took/made all these images)