Welcome To my world!


Talking about myself....isn't this always the hardest part? It's tough to try to tell others about ourselves without seeming to brag, be attention-seeking, or self-serving. Oh well, deep breath, here goes....

Everyday
Professionally, I am a business consultant, and forever an entrepreneur. As an advisor with the Florida SBDC (Small Business Development Center), I consult with existing and prospective small business owners in northeast Florida on all things about small business. Here are just a few of the areas on which I work with my clients - marketing, finance, strategic planning, writing business plans, starting a business, social media, hiring and firing, getting a bank or SBA loan, and how to grow a business. One of the things I love about the SBDC is that every day contains different sets of challenges and opportunities for my clients and I get to help them succeed and achieve their goals. Also, I teach Entrepreneurship and Marketing at the University of North Florida. My approach with my classes is hands-on: instead of lecturing, I work with students on real business opportunities with existing and prospective entrepreneurs. It's the most impactful way to learn!

As An Entrepreneur
I have a passion for entrepreneurship and love all the activities involved in that life path. Helping others achieve goals is something at which I excel. And sharing great resources, "hacks", tidbits of information that can help others in their life journey is what gives me an adrenaline rush. As such, I consume quite a bit of information daily. In fact, due to my various activities, I am fortunate to have access to loads and loads of fantastic information and tools. My perfect work environment is helping others bring their dreams or ideas to fruition. That's why I founded The Softer Side of Success.
How would I describe myself?
It's not sexy, but it's the honest truth. These values envelope my personal philosophy and are reflected in how I provide solutions and deliver value to others. I prefer concise, meaty, and honest dialogue, output, and results. Time is precious and I am always hyper-aware of the valuable time my clients spend with me. I work to get the best results in an efficient amount of time. In this, you can always count on me.
Pragmatic Inspiring Reliable

Me & My Family
A few personal things about me: 1) I am so honored to have an amazing family and 2) my family is big and fun! I am married to Dirk, who I describe to others as "the world's nicest person.", which he truly is. Everybody loves him, I was lucky enough to get him. Dirk and I share five children between us and quite frankly we are so dang blessed. While each of us is very different in our own rights, it's a wonderful mix of personalities, wit, abilities, and love. Our children are young adults and let me just say that having a family dinner together is one of the most enjoyable times one can have. Just try to get a word in edgewise and the belly laughs are guaranteed. Dirk and I love watching them grow and mature and we are so proud of the citizens they have grown up to become.


In General
Those who know me best know that I am a non-stop worker with a focus and a passion for achieving goals. I am highly organized and I am a planner. If I have been given an assignment or objective, it is almost unbearable for me to not complete it (for work or for play). I like to work from facts and I love to learn.
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My definition of a perfect evening is having a terrific dinner (that Dirk has grilled) with friends and family at our house and enjoying the lovely north Florida weather. Finish that dinner with something sweet - I have an insatiable sweet tooth - and I'm fulfilled! We live on an island, which we truly believe is our own slice of paradise. And we simply adore our dog, Bear (seen below as a puppy and as the handsome and spoiled brute that he is today.


I do love helping those who are committed and willing to work hard. If you want to know more about my background I suggest you look me up on my LinkedIn profile. And by all means, feel free to email me!
Email: jodi@thesoftersideofsuccess.com
I look forward to hearing from you!

