Make It Without Losing It: Jess Ekstrom on Speaking, Purpose and Creating Success without Losing your Soul

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Jess Ekstrom—entrepreneur, acclaimed speaker, and author for an inspiring exploration of what it truly means to “make it without losing it.” From launching Headbands of Hope in college and scaling it into a nationally recognized business, to becoming one of the busiest keynote speakers and founding Mic Drop Workshop to empower women speakers, Jess’s story is one of pursuing ambition with presence and heart. Jess opens up about her early days hustling for speaking gigs, the moment she realized her impact could multiply by helping others reach the stage, and the challenges and joys of building a career (and family) alongside her husband. Throughout the conversation, we dive into the power of telling your story with intention, how to transform personal moments into meaningful takeaways for others, and the importance of healthy ambition—especially as a parent and partner. From candid advice for public speakers, to raw reflections on work-life harmony, Jess’s journey offers wisdom on scaling success while staying grounded, present, and fulfilled. Whether you’re an aspiring speaker, a driven entrepreneur, or searching for encouragement on your own path, this episode is a powerful reminder that you can pursue your calling and inspire others—without losing yourself in the process.

About Jess:

Jess Ekstrom is the founder of Headbands of Hope and Mic Drop Workshop, investor in women, best selling author, Forbes Top Rated Speaker and mom.

Her first brush with success was selling all of her toys on eBay when she was twelve. Since then, Jess and her companies have been featured on the TODAY Show, Good Morning America and more. More importantly, her companies have helped millions of women and girls around the world.

She’s the bestselling author of Chasing the Bright Side and Making it Without Losing it. Her hobbies include writing, hiking, board games with her husband, playing hide and seek with her kids, and searching for the best breakfast burrito in America.

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