Alien Eyez Photos Industry Talk

Why every yes, is a powerful no?In this solo episode of Alien Eyez Photos Industry Talk, photographer and entrepreneur Steve Jackson breaks down what it really means to take the right opportunity—and why saying yes to everything can quietly block your growth.This episode is a mindset-driven conversation for entrepreneurs, creatives, and professionals who are navigating offers, gigs, collaborations, and commitments. Jackson explains how every “yes” is also a “no” to something else, and why evaluating opportunities through the lens of brand alignment, mental health, physical energy, and long-term value is critical.Using real-world examples from photography, media production, sports, and personal development, this episode emphasizes the importance of practice, preparation, and discernment so you’re ready when the right opportunity shows up.Topics Covered in This EpisodeWhy saying yes to everything can hurt your businessEvaluating opportunities beyond just moneyBrand alignment and personal boundariesWhen discounted work makes sense—and when it doesn’tPractice as a strategy for long-term excellencePreparing your skillset before the opportunity arrivesPhotography, sports, and real-world practice examplesThe difference between practice and perfect practiceBuilding worth through consistency and preparationProtecting your time, energy, and focusKey TakeawaysEvery opportunity deserves evaluation—not obligationFinancial need should be balanced with long-term impactPractice builds confidence, value, and readinessExcellence is developed, not declaredThe right opportunity requires preparation before arrivalOnly you can define what “right” means for your life and brandNotable InsightsSaying yes to everything means saying no to the right thingPractice outside of paid work creates professional excellencePreparation is what allows opportunity to convert into growthRelationships and communication strengthen long-term successSkill-building applies across all industries, not just creative workWho This Episode Is ForEntrepreneurs and business ownersPhotographers, videographers, and creativesFreelancers and independent contractorsStudents and early-career professionalsAnyone struggling with boundaries and decision-makingMentioned: choosing the right opportunity, entrepreneur mindset podcast, creative business decisions, saying no in business, photography entrepreneurship, freelance boundaries, preparation meets opportunity, career

Episode Guest: Jessica Williams, Founder of Jess JuicedAbout the Guest: Jessica WilliamsJessica Williams is the founder of Jess Juiced, a Cleveland-based juice brand focused on fresh, zero-additive juices. She is also a civic engagement leader, community advocate, and co-founder of the Civic Engagement Collaborative, working to mobilize, educate, and empower local communities through innovative programming.In this episode of Alien Eyez Photos Industry Talk, host Photographer Jackson (Steve Jackson) sits down with Jessica Williams, founder of Jess Juiced, community connector, civic engagement leader, and wellness advocate based in Cleveland, Ohio.Jessica shares her journey from juicing at home for her family to building a purpose-driven business serving underserved communities. The conversation dives deep into entrepreneurship, community health, civic engagement, mindset, and media, offering practical insight for aspiring entrepreneurs, wellness creators, and community leaders.From starting with limited resources to leveraging partnerships, social media, and storytelling, this episode highlights how business, wellness, and impact can work together—without losing authenticity.Topics Covered in This EpisodeHow Jess Juiced started with simple ingredients and limited resourcesJuicing vs. smoothies: nutrition, preparation, and accessibilityBuilding a business while serving underserved communitiesPricing, partnerships, and business-to-business strategyCommunity-based entrepreneurship in Cleveland’s Ward 5Civic engagement and the “Karaoke & Conversations” initiativeUsing media and social platforms to amplify impactStarting with what you have—mindset over moneyWellness, fitness, and mental clarity for entrepreneursNavigating setbacks, pivots, and long-term growthKey TakeawaysYou don’t need perfect conditions to start—use what you haveWellness and entrepreneurship are deeply connectedCommunity partnerships unlock sustainable business modelsMedia visibility builds credibility, confidence, and connectionPurpose-driven businesses still require structure and strategyImpact grows when education, access, and collaboration meetNotable Quotes & Moments“You don’t have to start with a juicer—start with a blender.”“My target audience is the community, but partnerships help me reach them.”“If it’s free and quality, it’s for me.”“Some people call it a job. Some people call it a passion.”Connect with Jessica WilliamsInstagram & Facebook: Jessica Williams / @JessJuicedLLCEmail: jwilliams@clevelandcitycouncil.orgAbout the HostJackson (Steve Jackson) is a photographer, media producer, and entrepreneur behind Alien Eyez Photos Media. Alien Eyez Photos Industry Talk is the marketing and education arm of his business, focused on entrepreneurship, media, mindset, and community impact.Keywords:Jess Juiced, Cleveland entrepreneur, juicing business, wellness entrepreneurship, community impact business, civic engagement Cleveland, Black women entrepreneurs, purpose-driven business, podcast for entrepreneurs, health and wellness podcast, Alien Eyez Photos Industry Talk

The Pull Up Experience, entrepreneur elevation group, visits Euclid High School to discuss podcasting and entrepreneurship to the student midday.In this episode of Alien Eyez Photos Industry Talk, photographer and media entrepreneur Jackson (Steve Jackson) shares powerful insights from a live entrepreneurship and podcasting presentation at Euclid High School in Euclid, Ohio. Joined alongside Brandon Gates of The Pull Up Experience, this episode explores how students can leverage podcasting as a marketing tool, build entrepreneurial mindsets early, and use content creation to monetize their ideas.From real-world business fundamentals to podcast monetization strategies, this episode delivers practical guidance for high school and college students, aspiring entrepreneurs, and educators looking to support youth innovation.Key Topics CoveredEntrepreneurship education for high school studentsPodcasting basics for beginnersHow podcasting supports business marketingMonetization strategies for podcasts and YouTubePivoting in business and creative industriesYouth entrepreneurship in Cleveland, OhioBuilding confidence through content creationAudio vs. video podcasting strategiesBalancing free work, purpose, and sustainabilityUsing podcasts as long-term brand assetsEpisode HighlightsBehind-the-scenes recap of speaking at Euclid High SchoolReal examples of student-focused entrepreneurship programsDiscussion on podcasting as a low-barrier entry point for creatorsWhy audio podcasting remains a powerful and flexible formatInsights into YouTube monetization requirementsCommitment to creating 1,000 educational podcast episodesEncouragement for students to explore robotics, culinary arts, music production, and media programsKey Takeaways for Students & Aspiring EntrepreneursPodcasting is not just content—it’s a marketing vehicleYou do not need expensive equipment to start a podcastConsistency and education build long-term opportunitiesEntrepreneurship requires balance, sustainability, and purposeEarly exposure to business concepts creates confidence and claritySeries Mentioned: 10-Day Social Media SabbaticalIdeal AudienceHigh school studentsCollege studentsYoung entrepreneursAspiring podcastersEducators and youth program coordinatorsCreative professionals and content creatorsKeywords entrepreneurship for students, podcasting for beginners, youth entrepreneurship Cleveland, student podcasting tips, podcast marketing strategies, how to make money podcasting, audio podcasting, content creation for students, Alien Eyez Photos Industry Talk, Brandon Gates, The Pull Up Experience (TPUE), business mindset

Adapt to your environment. Do the important work first, before the real work.What is someone doing in another industry that you can apply to your industry?How has media affected your industry? Like, a Nascar driver could have many sponsors, why can't you?We can have an ideation session and discuss some strageties to help you think creatively as an entrepreneur.

This Interview with Cleveland interior designer Justine Johnson of Just Designs spoke on the awareness of Ai generated room designs as a professional, getting booked for resin projects versus interior design contracts because it was popular for her, and how Art Deco influenced her work. If you are a creative entrepreneur, interior designer, or Cleveland business owner who wants to understand how professional design, media, and branding intersect, this conversation will give you real, practical insight with plenty of gems.Cleveland, Ohio is full of many quiet and under the radar creatives. Alien Eyez Photos Industry Talk highlights creative entrepreneurs such as Justine Johnson and so many more in various industries.Follow Just Designs on Instagram at:https://www.instagram.com/justdesigns_llc?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

How do you turn rainbows into horror?I had to travel to Kent, Ohio to catch up with an old friend"Cut it out!" Lai Lai explains the editing process.Stating how she now keeps a camera, tripod and ruler with her.From School of the Arts to the Cleveland Print Room, to Kent State University.We discuss her early stages of entrepreneurship and favorite moments as a photographer.Lai Lai of Melting Magnets Photography and Photogenic Collection got a little personal."Everything is art to me." As we talk about blending art, creativity, and spirituality.Some favorites for inspiration are Stephen King, Jordan Peele, and Tim Burton, with Chucky movies series being all-time horror favorites.This is just some of the things we discussed other than catching up and talking business. Reminiscing on Imaging USA annual conference.It is lonely at the top, it is good to have great company.Use art as therapy.Book Lai Lai: https://meltingmagnetsllc.square.site/Follow Lai Lai: https://www.instagram.com/lai_melting_magnet