Alien Eyez Photos Industry Talk

In this solo journal-style episode of Alien Eyez Photos Industry Talk, photographer and creative entrepreneur Jackson (Steve Jackson) breaks down the daily and weekly habits that help him stay focused, grounded, and consistent while balancing business, family, creativity, and life.This episode is a transparent look at how structure creates freedom—from calendar discipline and limiting daily tasks to journaling, rest, movement, and protecting personal time. Jackson shares why routines matter, how decision fatigue impacts entrepreneurs, and why self-love, gratitude, and reflection are not optional if you want longevity.This conversation is for creatives, entrepreneurs, parents, and professionals building something meaningful without burning out.Topics CoveredWeekly vs. daily habits for entrepreneursCalendar discipline and time blockingLimiting daily to-do lists to avoid burnoutBalancing business, family, and creativityJournaling with pen and paperProtecting mornings from chaosDecision fatigue and mental clarityRest, recovery, and self-care routinesCreativity, imagination, and structureBuilding sustainable focus and consistencyKey TakeawaysStructure creates mental freedomFewer daily priorities reduce burnoutJournaling clears the mind and sharpens executionProtecting your mornings protects your visionSelf-care is a business strategyConsistency turns habits into resultsPhases to ponder on:Journaling for Entrepreneurs Entrepreneur Habits Creative Entrepreneur Weekly Routines Focus and Discipline Life and Business Balance Mental Clarity Productivity for Creatives"Structure creates freedom."What daily habit helps you stay focused the most?

Co-worker tribute podcast episode.What do you say after a co-worker passes away?Mental health is important.In this episode of Alien Eyez Photos Industry Talk, we honor DS, our Cleveland co-worker who passed away suddenly from a heart attack. This is a Rest In Peace tribute—shared with warmth, respect, and a little lightness—because remembering someone well can include both laughter and grief. If you’ve experienced a co-worker death, sudden loss, or you’re missing someone today, you’re not alone here. This is also for heart attack awareness and how we can help those in need.We also talk to creative entrepreneurs and working professionals who are building a dream while juggling a job and real life: how to balance grief and business, show up when you don’t feel “ready,” and keep creating without guilt. If you’re searching for grief support, perspective, and a steady reminder that life keeps moving—and we can too—press play.Let this be your courage to keep going as a creative entrepreneur and/or small business owner (large business owner). A moment to pause, remember, and breathe for every entrepreneur navigating grief, life, and business.Solo reflection and grief support.#MentalHealthMatters #InMemory #SendingLove #HumanOverHustle #HonoringLife #LifeHappens #Resilience #WorkplaceWellbeing #HeartHealthAwareness #RIP #Job#RestInPeace#IndustryTalk

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

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

This episode is for my photographers. As a photographer, think about what is a visual representation of you and the type of work you would enjoy doing. You are what you attract. Take that time to yourself; 10 minutes a day, at least.Learn from the lesson I had to learn and endure on my journey through growing a photography business. Networking and building relationships are your biggest asset.