Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessi Pierce.
Hi Jessi, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I’ve always been a go-getter. I just often lacked the confidence to do it. At age 18, I told everyone who would listen that I would work in the NHL (ideally covering the Wild). 18 internships, jobs in Colorado Springs, Colorado (USA Hockey), Brainerd, Minnesota (news reporter), and Syracuse, New York (sports reporter) eventually led me back home to the Twin Cities to work in marketing and youth hockey. I was unceremoniously let go from my position after 8 years, which left me broken but determined. In 2016, I got my break to cover the NHL as an independent correspondent in Minnesota, and I dueled that with my full-time marketing position in youth hockey. I started a hockey podcast (Bardown Beauties), my own marketing company (new voice studios), and have also continued to grow my freelance work. Doubt, fear, depression, and anxiety consumed me, but I can honestly say that now looking back, I found that confidence needed to pursue each avenue and make it successful.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Nothing worth pursuing is smooth. Where’s the challenge and growth in that? I moved to cities and states where I knew no one — a challenge within itself. My move to Syracuse, where I covered every level of lacrosse, was my hardest. I missed home. So, after 8 months, I moved back home with no plan (I always have a plan, so to not was terrifying). But, as luck would have it. A perfect job is opening up at a marketing agency where I could cover hockey in a relatively 9-5 capacity. I loved it. But, after eight years, they decided to move in a different direction. Enter major struggle no. 2. I had already been struggling with my mental health and, at the time, was pregnant with my third child, so the sudden shock of departure from a job I had given my all sent me further into the deep end. But at that bottom, I found myself. I began therapy, received medication for my anxiety and depression (and have a beautiful baby girl too). At the same time, I wasn’t going to let it get me down. I put all my efforts into starting a new business, broadening my podcast experience, and expanding my freelance work. Through the network I established, I could make each new venture lucrative enough to feel comfortable keeping those as my new career(s). I still have the pull to get a ‘normal’ 9-5 but love the new path I carved out for myself.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am known as a content creator (self-proclaimed). I think many recognize me as a sports media personality. Some have even used the word influencer, but I think that’s large because it’s the buzzword of the hour. My personality is largely outgoing, bubbly, and friendly, which has afforded me many opportunities. I have found that I can open doors and move mountains by putting myself out there and just being me. It’s expanded my network, which in turn grows my brand and my business brand. I am proud that I did what I set out to do at age 18. To become a writer in the NHL, especially as a female, is not an easy route. And as previously stated, it was filled with struggles and required much work. Now, as a wife and a mom of three. I have found the perfect balance of work and family (OK, not perfect, but it’s getting there). Being a freelance creative and co-founder of my own company in new voice studios has afforded me the flexibility I have long sought. That to be is everything.
What changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
I think the media and social world are always changing. Digital platforms are ever-growing, and you must adapt to how your audience consumes content. That is the most exciting part; changing means you get to change and grow regularly. It’s fun and challenging and makes it never boring.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.newvoicestudios.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessip224/?hl=en
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/jessi_pierce?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwvD08KWGm-FwC2vkl8v2_g
