Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jillian “JJ” Simmons. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Jillian “JJ” , looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?
My work ethic finds its roots in the inspiring examples set by both my mother and father. My mother’s remarkable strength and determination became evident when she became a single mother when I was just 9 years old. She faced the challenges head-on, working tirelessly to provide for me, ensuring that I had all that I needed. Her resilience and dedication showed me the power of hard work and instilled in me the importance of giving my all to whatever I pursued.
Equally influential was my father, a dedicated police officer who exhibited an unrelenting passion for his work. He served tirelessly until his well-deserved retirement, showcasing a commitment that extended beyond duty hours. Their combined influence ignited a fire within me, propelling me to approach every task with diligence, perseverance, and commitment to achieving my goals.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I’m Jillian “JJ” Simmons, a veteran radio host who has had the privilege of connecting with millions of listeners in major cities across the country. What makes my journey unique is my commitment to spreading positivity and empowerment in everything I do. Beyond my work, I’m also a proud mother to an incredible teenage daughter. This role has deepened my passion for making a difference in the lives of women.
Driven by an innate desire to uplift others, becoming a mother took my mission to a new level, inspiring me to establish the I’m Me Foundation. This foundation is a testament to my dedication to creating change and fostering growth in the lives of young women. Through the I’m Me Foundation, I’m dedicated to providing opportunities for positive social interactions, building character, and promoting better mental health. My goal is to boost self-esteem and self-worth in girls and young women, helping them realize their full potential.
I’m thrilled to share that I have an exciting project on the horizon: the launch of the 2024 BLESSED planner this November. And don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Blessed event in January—an occasion that truly embodies my commitment to positivity and personal growth.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey, I believe that three qualities that stood out as the most impactful are networking, taking risks and not creating a Plan B.
Building meaningful connections and relationships with others has been instrumental in my journey.
Embracing risks and stepping outside of my comfort zone has consistently led to significant growth and progress. Taking calculated risks helps in overcoming fear, expanding horizons, and discovering untapped potential. When I moved to New York City, I didn’t have a job but I believed without a doubt that I would get on the radio at WBLS. After three months, I did it.
Approaching challenges with a belief that Plan A will work has been a driving force in my journey. This mentality fuels determination, innovation, and resilience. By eliminating the option of a backup plan, I was motivated to give my best to every endeavor, ultimately increasing the likelihood of success.
All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?
Inevitably, there will be moments when circumstances don’t align with our plans, but these instances don’t signify the failure of our goals. Such challenges don’t necessarily mandate quitting or altering our course. At times, persistence becomes our ally; at others, we reach a point where we’ve exhausted all efforts. Deciphering whether to continue pushing forward or step away poses a significant challenge. Personally, I allocate substantial time to prayer and moments of reflection, allowing me to attune myself to God’s guidance and insights. This practice aids me in discerning the path forward—whether it entails steadfast perseverance or a measured decision to embrace change.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jjonthemic.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/jjonthemic
- Facebook: facebook.com/jjonthemic
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jjonthemic/
- Youtube: youtube.com/jjonthemic
Image Credits
Jillian Simmons
