Alien Eyez Photos Industry Talk

This follows the "Flat Tires to Business Upsells" episode. https://shows.acast.com/67a47b2e3e56448eb37b83ac/69754b44f5a4f675d7c2982cIn this short, powerful episode of Alien Eyez Photos Industry Talk, Jackson (Steve Jackson) reflects after a string of setbacks — new tires, service upsells, a speeding ticket, and witnessing a driver asleep at the wheel — and explains why he remains “forever grateful.” He turns everyday friction into an entrepreneur lesson about health, perspective, and treating your assets (and life) with care. If you’re hustling between gigs, parenting, and projects, this is a practical reminder to protect your health, do the small checks, and practice gratitude even when it hurts.Money Takeaways: Real moments; car maintenance, dealer upsells, a speeding citation, and seeing a dangerously sleepy driver.Why “asset vs. liability” matters for cars and businessesA posture toward hardship: gratitude as a practical disciplineReminder to value sleep, health, and small winsWho this episode is for: creative entrepreneurs, parents juggling work and family, service providers, and anyone who needs a simple reset to perspective.Forever Grateful.Be sure to listen the upsells episode that happened the day before this audio document.https://shows.acast.com/67a47b2e3e56448eb37b83ac/69754b44f5a4f675d7c2982c

Car UpsellsIn this short but powerful reflection episode of Alien Eyez Photos Industry Talk, Photographer Steve Jackson shares a real-life winter experience in Cleveland, Ohio—getting two flat tires in freezing temperatures with his daughter in the car—and turns it into a practical business lesson every entrepreneur needs to hear.What started as a roadside emergency became a reminder about upsells, preparation, research, and decision-making as a business owner. From tire replacements to dealership sales tactics, this episode breaks down how upsells exist in every industry—and how to approach them with clarity, intention, and integrity.This episode is especially relevant for:Creative entrepreneursSmall business ownersService-based professionalsAnyone refining their offers, add-ons, and client experienceSteve also emphasizes why doing your research before any “meeting”—even a visit to the tire shop—can reduce anxiety, protect your assets, and help you make confident decisions.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why upsells are not unethical—they’re essential when done rightHow real-life situations mirror business strategyThe importance of preparation before any transactionHow to evaluate offers without pressure or overwhelmWhy your car (and your business) should be treated as an asset, not a liabilityThis is a reminder to make the offer, build the upsell, and stay informed—without being overly salesy.This will remind you how to create upsells in your business.

What David Shands Taught Me About Community, Podcasting, and Investing in Yourself?*Some audio cut out at 10-minutes, so I had to redo the middle and ending, but still great insights. Enjoy!A behind-the-scenes reflection on hosting David Shands in Cleveland, building community through podcasting, investing in yourself, and how one moment can plant seeds for generational impact. Who is David Shands? David Shands is an entrepreneur, business coach, and host of the Social Proof Podcast, known for teaching entrepreneurs how to monetize podcasts and build community-driven businesses.What is the Social Proof Podcast? A leading entrepreneurship and podcasting podcast focused on monetization, mindset, and execution.What is Podcast Summit? Podcast Summit is an annual conference created by David Shands that helps podcasters grow, monetize, and scale their platforms.In this reflective episode, I break down what it truly meant to host David Shands, New Jersey native turned Atlanta-based multimillionaire entrepreneur, business coach, and host of the Social Proof Podcast, when he pulled up to Cleveland.From organizing the day, documenting the experience, and witnessing David pour into young students, entrepreneurs, and podcasters, this episode highlights the real power of community, curiosity, and self-investment.David didn’t just speak—he activated people. He gave students actionable steps to make money that same day, rewarded quick execution, and showed what it looks like to lead with faith, discipline, and integrity.We reflect on:How podcasting can plant seeds long before you start your own showWhy community exchange matters more than cloutLessons from Podcast Summit and Social Proof PodcastThe importance of staying curious as a podcaster and entrepreneurWhy investing in yourself is non-negotiableThis episode is both a tribute and a testimony—proof that when you bet on yourself and build intentionally, opportunities multiply.🎙️ We’ll also be attending and vending at Podcast Summit 2026, continuing the journey that started with one yes.Brands Mentioned:Pull Up Experience PodcastCreative FrequencyAlien Eyez Photos MediaPodcast Summit 2026Social Proof PodcastBeneficial BaeMidtown Tech HiveCreate-A-SpaceGin Academy

Ideas vs Execution"Mastermind Inner Circle"In this episode of Alien Eyez Photos Industry Talk, photographer and creative entrepreneur Jackson (Steve Jackson) breaks down a hard truth for entrepreneurs: ideas mean nothing without execution.Fresh off a multi-day mastermind, Jackson reflects on the power of community, shared ideas, and—most importantly—taking action. This episode introduces listeners to his Inner Circle community through Creative Frequency, where creatives and entrepreneurs move beyond inspiration and into real implementation.Through personal stories, early creative experiences, and real talk about growth, this episode encourages listeners to stop waiting, start executing, and surround themselves with people who actually do the work.If you’re full of ideas but struggling to move forward, this episode is your call to action.Topics CoveredWhy ideas alone don’t build businessesThe difference between inspiration and executionPower of masterminds and creative communityTeaching, mentorship, and the “Sensei” mindsetInvesting in yourself before you’re “ready”Early creative instincts and disciplineBuilding Creative Frequency as an Inner CircleStrategy calls vs. surface-level adviceAccountability, consistency, and growthDoing what you have to do to get where you need to beKey TakeawaysExecution is the real differentiatorCommunity accelerates clarity and confidenceTeaching sharpens masteryAction creates momentumEarly investment compounds long-term growthAccountability turns ideas into outcomesQuestions to reflect on:Do you struggle more with ideas or execution?What’s one idea you’ve been sitting on too long?Does community help you take action?What keeps you from executing consistently?Would accountability help you move faster?Have you invested in yourself this year?What would “doing what you have to do” look like for you?Are you building alone—or with others?My ideas list for this episode were: Execution Over IdeasCreative CommunityEntrepreneur MindsetTake ActionInner CircleMastermindCreative EntrepreneursAccountability for EntrepreneursBusiness ExecutionJoin our inner circle below:Creative Frequency | Patreon

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

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