I have loved Luvvie Ajayi Jones since first learning about her blog. I faithfully open her newsletters and read them from top to bottom. Before launching Quartermain Media or Cue The Culture and before she added the Jones, I worked hand-in-hand with Keandra “KJ” Sandifer and a little start up called The B-Side Agency to host a Los Angeles book signing event for Luvvie’s first best selling book, “I’m Judging You!”. It was a packed event. I remember being so thankful for a full house, even though I had one of the event staff try to steal our joy by purposely not bringing lights for the step & repeat. Luvvie was understanding and so kind but she was also stern in what she needed. Much like the city of Chicago where she and my father reside, she was hard and soft, familiar and could cut to the chase. While I was annoyed by the unfortunate light debacle, I was so appreciative of her still bringing her full self.
I fell in love with Luvvie because I could often relate. I too went on to build a successful video production company. I am also still very close with KJ who went on to build a successful hair extensions brand. We support each other and Luvvie! Recently, however, with a Hollywood strike that went on way too long and layoffs happening with our major tech clients, I hate that I can now relate to having to dismiss my staff, restructure, renegotiate, and restart. I love me some Luvvie, but in this instance, I hate that I can relate.
What seems to be central to Luvvie’s journey of rebuilding is her commitment to personal growth and healing. During her podcast, now in its 5th season, she has not shied away from seeking help where needed. Embracing therapy as a vital tool for introspection and healing, Luvvie navigated and is making her way through the emotional terrain of disappointment and loss with grace and determination. Her willingness to share this aspect of her life on her podcast was not just an act of transparency but also a beacon of hope for others grappling with similar challenges. It made me get out from under my shroud of shame to remind myself of my own abilities to overcome what feels like utter defeat.
Prayer also played a crucial role in Luvvie’s journey. As someone who values faith and spirituality, she leaned into her beliefs during moments of uncertainty. Through prayer, she found solace and strength, anchoring herself in a higher purpose that transcended the immediate setbacks she faced. This spiritual resilience underscored her ability to persevere amidst adversity, inspiring listeners to find their own sources of grounding and resilience. Again, I can relate. Leaning on my Lord and defaulting to praise and worship over worrying is not easy, but it is what God desires of us and when it’s time to walk on water, to do the impossible, you need to focus on Jesus and get on out of the boat.
Equally important was Luvvie’s reliance on her network of friends and supporters. She understood the power of community and leaned into the relationships that sustained her during difficult times. Drawing upon the wisdom and encouragement of those closest to her, Luvvie found herself bolstered by their unwavering support. Her openness about the importance of community highlighted the transformative power of genuine connections in overcoming challenges and rebuilding one’s life. Listening to her journey reminded me to tap into Linkedin and be open with friends and family who knew that if I got started with nothing and built a business, that I could do it again. No, I would not be able to leap from one mountain top to the next, but by going into this valley, I would be able to climb an even higher mountain the next time.
Beyond personal support, Luvvie Ajayi Jones also leveraged her platform to launch the Book Academy, an initiative aimed at nurturing aspiring writers and creators. This endeavor not only underscored her commitment to paying it forward but also served as a testament to her resilience and determination to forge ahead despite setbacks. By investing in the dreams and aspirations of others, Luvvie demonstrated her belief in the transformative power of storytelling and community building. Hearing this made me pick up my own pen and to recommit to writing, to commit to working with what I’ve got, what I know, and who I know
In recounting her journey through the tumultuous period of her business’s collapse, Luvvie Ajayi Jones exhibited not just resilience but also a profound sense of purpose and authenticity. Her willingness to confront adversity head-on and share her experiences with candor and grace resonated deeply with me and I know her audience feels it too. Through her podcast, she is not only offering a glimpse into the complexities of entrepreneurship and personal growth but also imparting invaluable lessons on courage and community.
As Luvvie continues to evolve as a thought leader and storyteller, her journey serves as a powerful reminder that setbacks are not synonymous with failure but rather opportunities for growth, transformation, and to truly live as a professional troublemaker—someone unafraid to challenge norms, confront adversity, and inspire others to do the same.
As someone who can relate to Luvvie and who is currently in motion of failing fabulously forward, I say, “Thank you, Luvvie.”
To listen to her podcast, learn about her journey, and support her as she climbs up the next mountain, please visit our https://cuetheculture.com/shop/ to support Luvvie and to connect with her on all her platforms.
To listen to her podcast, learn about her journey, and support her as she climbs up the next mountain, please visit our https://cuetheculture.com/shop/ to support Luvvie and to connect with her on all her platforms.