Fresh start energy, LinkedIn has grown up, and one big thank you!

Hi friends,

Happy Fall—arguably the best season. I love a good 90-degree day, but there’s something about the golden afternoon light and the slow creep of pumpkins onto every porch that feels like a reset. 🍁

As my daughter would say: September gives fresh start vibes.

Last month, I offered free 25-minute LinkedIn audits. 23 of you said “yes” (!)

What started as a fun experiment turned into a busy few weeks with more to come in October. Thank you to everyone who shared it or booked time. Clearly, there is demand for this— 😉.

I’m considering doing it again in November. If that sounds good to you (or someone in your orbit), reply with YES—that’s what we call back-of-the-envelope market research. (No commitment, but gives me a ballpark).

This newsletter is for:

• You, who’ve been thinking about building an online brand but need a system.

• You, who want to share your story, but don’t think anyone will care.

• You, who knows your brand travels with you, but… it feels daunting to do this on top of your day job.

Not your thing? No worries. You can unsubscribe at the bottom.

For everyone else, let’s dig in. 😊

What I’m Practicing

In 2014, I flew from San Diego to Menlo Park for meetings at Meta. On the wall, I spotted this poster:

A decade later, that message still hits. Robin Arzón, one of my Peloton faves, puts it this way:

So this month, I’m on a mission: 30 days without complaining. It’s really hard. But I’m noticing how easy it is for negativity to sneak into digital spaces too. My advice?

• Unfollow negative accounts
  

• Don’t repost outrage
  

• Don’t reward idle speculation with your attention
  

Your digital presence can be a source of light. Make it intentional. 🌟

What I’m Loving

You know Sara Blakely, founder of Spanx. But have you met her husband, Jesse Itzler?

Ultramarathoner. Sauna guy. Private jet salesman turned entrepreneur. But what I love most? His unapologetic energy.

Here’s a quote, from Jesse, I can’t stop thinking about:

Leaders often tell me:

• “I don’t have time for LinkedIn.”
  

• “It feels self-promotional.”
  

• “The PR team handles that.”
  

But underneath it all? Fear of doing it wrong.

Visibility is a muscle. Like learning to drive, it starts awkward—but gets easier. Don’t wait to feel ready. Start. I can help.

👉 Book time here

☑️ Pro Tip: LinkedIn is Having a Moment

It’s not just for résumés anymore. LinkedIn is the executive platform.

Check this out:

• 1.1B users (70M added yearly)
  

• Over 50% earn $100K+
  

• Algorithm rewards educational, story-driven content
  

• Videos now get traction
  

This platform builds trust. And trust builds pipelines—for customers, partners, and top-tier talent.

Best part? It’s (mostly) drama-free.

Want to stand out? Lead with stories. They build connection 47% faster than facts alone. Stats make us think. Stories make us feel.

🔦 Shining a Light

Meet Tom Perry, founder of Engaged Pursuit. I’ve watched Tom grow from 1:1 career coaching into a sought-after speaker and team facilitator.

His approach is real, human-first, and refreshingly honest. Workshops, group coaching, keynotes—he’s building the next wave of leadership development.

Check out his work here or give him a follow.

🎧 ICYMI: Off the Beaten Pod

After a little summer hiatus, I’m back on the mic—but this time, I’m branching out. Less B2B, more… B-side.

Lately, I’ve found myself talking brand-building with some unexpected audiences:

• Accountants → [The Successful Bookkeeper]

• Athletes → [Becoming a Stronger Me]

• Daters → [Charisma Quotient]

Turns out, the same storytelling muscles that shape an executive brand? They show up in coaching athletes, wooing clients, and yes—navigating the modern dating pool.

Want to hear my voice in your 🎧? Bookmark these for your next evening stroll.

Where’s Jess?

Last month: Me + Dad + giant wooden troll (Ole Bolle).

This month? I’m mid-bike ride crossing the Ohio River between two states. Any guesses?

Thanks for being here.

➡️ Did a friend forward this to you? Subscribe here. You’ll get pro tips and inspo about once a month.

➡️ Want some 1:1 time with me to discuss your next steps. Book a 25 minute discovery call here.

➡️ Got feedback? Hit reply and tell me what you think. I’m always looking to level up.

See you next month!
Jess