Meet Jordan Diggs

We recently connected with Jordan Diggs and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Jordan, thanks for sharing your insights with our community today. Part of your success, no doubt, is due to your work ethic and so we’d love if you could open up about where you got your work ethic from?

My work ethic is deeply rooted in the inspiring journey of my parents, who have navigated their professional pursuits with unwavering ambition and passion. Growing up in Memphis, TN, I watched my father, a brilliant math wizard and LeMoyne Owen graduate, dedicate himself to a fulfilling career with the government. His playful yet mysterious mantra—“If I told ya, I would have to kill ya”—exemplified not just a sense of humor but also a profound commitment to his work. Even in retirement, he maintains that air of dedication, reminding me that success is often shrouded in hard work and a little mystery.

My mother, on the other hand, is an educational powerhouse who didn’t step into her professional stride until her 30s. With multiple degrees, including a doctorate in education, she has become a highly decorated administrator whose influence has reached all the way to Washington D.C. Her journey taught me that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams and that success is a personal definition shaped by our experiences and passions.

Together, my parents have modeled what it means to be each other’s biggest cheerleaders. Their 44-year marriage is a testament to the importance of support, partnership, and being equally yoked. They’ve shown me that ambition and passion are twin forces driving us toward success, often requiring long, sleepless nights and meticulous planning. It’s about being your own personal project manager, taking ownership of your path, and being relentless in the pursuit of your goals.

But it’s not just about hard work. My parents taught me the value of having a support system. They’ve always been there for one another, celebrating wins and navigating challenges side by side. This has deeply influenced my perspective on relationships. If someone wants me to prioritize their needs over my dreams, it’s a sign that they may not have my best interests at heart. I’ve learned that mutual support is imperative; we are not meant to navigate life’s journey alone.

This lesson hit home when I found myself at a crossroads in my own life. I had friends who encouraged me to slow down and take a break, but they didn’t share my passion or actively contribute to my dreams. It was time to reassess those relationships. My parents’ example empowered me to surround myself with those who uplift and push me towards my aspirations.

In embodying these lessons, I’ve come to realize that my dreams are mine. My success is my own, and my work ethic is a reflection of all that I’ve learned from my parents. Their journeys have inspired me to embrace my ambition, remain passionate, and cultivate relationships that foster growth. I am driven by the understanding that success is not just a destination but a perspective that I can fully grasp—one that requires dedication, the right support, and a relentless pursuit of my goals.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I’m a lover of life, laughter, and meaningful connections, and these passions shape everything I do, both personally and professionally. My family is my foundation and my greatest source of inspiration. As the middle child of three, I can certainly attest to the unique challenges and dynamics that come with that role—the struggle is real! However, I’ve come to realize that being the middle child is a superpower. I have an older brother and a younger sister whom I adore, and their presence in my life constantly inspires me to be my best self.

I thrive on staying active, primarily through running, and I’ve completed countless half marathons along with a half Ironman. While I may have reached my desired level of competition with that Ironman, my commitment to staying physically fit is a daily practice. This dedication is fueled by my desire to keep up with my energetic 5-year-old daughter as she grows.

Professionally, I serve as the Associate Director of Project Management at a large advertising agency in Kansas City. This role allows me to blend my organizational skills with my creativity, constantly coming up with new ideas to express myself and connect with others. One of my greatest joys is serving as the voice for large sporting events across the country, specifically for cheer and dance competitions. It’s hard to believe I’ve been doing this for 20 years, but public speaking truly is my happy place. The energy of the crowd and the thrill of engaging with participants and spectators is something I cherish.

Writing is another passion of mine, and I currently have several projects in the works that I’m excited to share in the future. My parents always emphasized the importance of protecting my ideas, reminding me that not everyone is invested in my journey. To avoid the false dopamine hit of telling your goals to others. This advice has guided me as I cultivate my creative pursuits, ensuring that I stay focused on my goals without external distractions. While I can’t disclose all the details just yet, I encourage everyone to stay tuned for some upcoming book announcements in the near future.

A cause that is particularly dear to my heart is my involvement with The Children’s Place in Kansas City, where I serve on the board. This nonprofit organization offers vital services to help children and families heal from traumatic experiences. Their programs include individual and family therapy, day treatment that combines mental health support with early education, and developmental screenings for young children. The Children’s Place also provides family support services and training to local schools and organizations, recognizing the importance of community in the healing process. It’s an honor to contribute to this mission, and I am continually inspired by the resilience and strength of the families we serve.

My journey is a tapestry woven from my love for life, creativity, and meaningful connections. Whether through my work in advertising, my passion for public speaking, or my commitment to supporting children and families, I strive to make a positive impact wherever I can. I look forward to sharing more about my projects and initiatives in the near future and hope to inspire others to embrace their passions and pursue their dreams.

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 can pinpoint three qualities that have been instrumental in shaping who I am today: the strength to say “no,” the importance of self-care, and the ability to engage in uncomfortable conversations. Each has played a crucial role in my personal and professional growth, and I believe they can significantly benefit others who are just starting their journeys.

1. The Strength to Say “No”:
Lately, I’ve fallen in love with the word “no.” For too long, I was a people pleaser, often prioritizing others’ needs over my own. This tendency led to missed opportunities and feelings of resentment. I’ve learned that every “no” to someone else is a “yes” to myself, creating space for my own priorities and aspirations. For those early in their journey, I encourage you to practice setting boundaries. Start small—say no to minor requests that don’t serve your interests. As you build comfort with this, you’ll find it easier to protect your time and energy for what truly matters to you.

2. The Importance of Self-Care:
Self-care is not just a buzzword; it’s a necessity. I’ve come to understand that mental health, while often discussed in trendy terms, has been a silent struggle for many long before it became a topic of conversation. It’s often a byproduct of our circumstances and environments. Taking time for self-care is an act of kindness towards oneself and is vital for sustaining mental health. I advise anyone starting their journey to prioritize self-care regularly, whether it’s through mindfulness practices, hobbies, treating yourself to a massage or simply taking a moment to breathe. Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup; nurturing your own well-being allows you to be present and supportive for others, especially for those who depend on you.

3. Engaging in Uncomfortable Conversations:
Navigating relationships—whether personal or professional—often requires having tough conversations. I encourage open dialogue by asking direct questions that explore the “why” behind actions and decisions. This practice has helped me identify alignment (or misalignment) in my relationships. For those new to this concept, I recommend starting with curiosity rather than confrontation. Approach these conversations with an open mind and a willingness to listen. This not only fosters understanding but also strengthens connections, creating a foundation for healthier interactions. It is okay for things to not work out; it is most likely for the best. It is okay to hop off the rollercoaster and let someone else take a ride. Life is a journey and sometimes people including ourselves are seasonal and lessons to be learned.

As a single father to my wonderful 5-year-old daughter, whom I affectionately call “babygirl,” I recognize the profound responsibility I have to model these qualities. Children are impressionable, and I want to be a guiding image for her as she learns to navigate her own path. By embracing the strength to say no, prioritizing self-care, and engaging in tough conversations, I am better equipped to be the healthy, positive role model she needs.

I urge anyone early in their journey to cultivate these qualities. They will not only empower you to create a fulfilling life but will also help you forge healthier relationships and set a positive example for those who look up to you. Embrace your journey, and remember that you have the power to influence not just your own path, but also the lives of those around you.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

I am currently looking to connect with collaborators who share my passion for creativity and storytelling across various media platforms, including radio, television, and film. With a strong aspiration to become an on-air personality and a bestselling author, I am focused on exploring new ideas and projects that can enhance our collective creativity.

I am particularly interested in engaging with individuals who are innovative and driven to push boundaries in their respective fields. Whether you are a talented writer, an experienced producer, a visionary director, or someone with fresh ideas in media, I welcome the opportunity to discuss potential collaborations.

If you are interested in connecting and collaborating, please feel free to reach out via email at [email protected] or on Instagram @iamjdiggs. I look forward to the possibility of working together to create something impactful.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @iamjdiggs
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordandiggsmba/