Writer and creator Jenni Johnson recently joined nDash and was kind enough to be interviewed for a feature on our blog. As a content creator, Jenni knows the ins and outs of video, podcasting, and more! Read on for Jenni’s thoughts on Tiktok, Taylor Swift, perfectionism, and life as a freelancer!
Before we get into that, here’s a little bit of background about Jenni
Sourced from Jenni’s LinkedIn profile:
I am a passionate media professional that creates content for the zillennial generation. I am the host of Cageless, a podcast about experiential wisdom and personal hope. With a background in film entertainment and social media, I believe in stories that challenge, educate and heal. I have written for publications Thought Catalog, nDash, and my blog thejennijohnson.com. I love stories. I love people. In fact, I think stories and people have the capacity to change the world. I’d love to connect with you and be a part of telling your story.
Can you tell our audience what prompted you to start as a freelance writer?
Though I have been a writer by definition my entire life, I began freelance writing a little over a year ago. I have a background in screenwriting and never took the leap to share my personal writing until last winter. Like many of us during the COVID-19 pandemic, things I value most became clear, and owning my space in the universe as a writer was one of them. I joined an online writers group, started to share my work on a blog and Instagram, and began taking on freelance clients shortly after.
You have a pretty successful TikTok account – how does that fit into your career as a freelancer?
TikTok is funny. I began posting on the app (and on the internet in general) as a way to connect with others who felt the same way I did about subjects I was passionate about. Turns out there is a community for just about anything. The content I post and the people I engage with on TikTok give me an insight I can’t find anywhere else. This inside view influence inspires and challenges my thinking and writing constantly.
Is there something specific that excites you about freelancing?
When I think of freelancing, I think of freedom. I have worked for large and small corporations (and am grateful for the skills I learned in both environments). Still, nothing beats creating your own schedule, office, and connecting with the clientele you have personally selected yourself.
What subject areas are you passionate about?
I am passionate about an array of subjects. Anywhere from psychology to spirituality. From mainstream culture to mental health. I love engaging in stories and content that require contemplation partnered with meaning. I also shamelessly love hound dogs, ice cream shops, and Taylor Swift.
Can you tell our audience makes a great client?
I believe the formula of obtaining a great client solely depends on your connection with their business. Connecting with a client’s audience is vital, but first, you must connect with their mission and vision. I think real connection can only be built upon integrity.
What’s your best piece of advice for new freelance writers?
The best piece of writing advice I’ve ever received is an acronym I heard on a podcast with author Jo Saxton. I often find myself in a perfectionist rut or an overwhelmed state. Whenever these feelings arise (as I am writing or working on anything that requires creative exertion), I ask myself: Is this GETMO? (Good Enough To Move On) For new writers, just remember that there is no shame in taking a breath, asking yourself this question, and truly listening to the answer.
Where do you go for inspiration?
It might sound odd, but when I feel stale or stuck, I typically gravitate towards authors who have passed on. For some reason, when I read the words of my favorite writers who have already lived a life and told their tales, there is a stirring in me I cannot explain. Inspiration I often derive inspiration from the Biblical Psalms of David and Emily Dickinson’s anthology.
What do you like to get up to on weekends in your area of LA?
I’ve loved living in the city of Los Angeles. There is so much to offer in terms of food, entertainment, and culture… It can be a big bright city! But one of my tried and true favorite spots in Los Angeles is found in the quiet area of Glendale at the Brand Library & Art Center. I love hiking behind the building and spending time in the greenery by the baseball park with my dog!
Interested in hiring Jenni for your brand? Head to her profile on nDash! Would you like to connect with Jenni on social? Here’s a rundown of where you can find her:
- TikTok: thejennijohnson
- Twitter: @thejennijohnson
- Instagram: jennijohnson
- YouTube: Cageless – Jenni Johnson
- Podcast: Cageless
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