Building a Career One Beat at a Time with DJEJ

Building a Career One Beat at a Time with DJEJ

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I talk with EJ Price, better known as DJEJ. He shares how he once believed making a living as a DJ in West Virginia was not possible. That changed when he turned a passion for music into a business built around events, production, and creating experiences. We talk about how his career started with mixtapes, family mentors, and years behind the turntables before growing into what he does today. EJ explains that talent alone is not enough. One of his biggest lessons was realizing he had to educate people on what he actually offers. Many clients hear the word DJ and picture weddings, loud music, and flashing lights. He works to show them that event production is about creating the right atmosphere through music, lighting, media, and design. We also discuss the value of learning from others. EJ invested in online training during the pandemic and continues building new skills in media design so he can bring ideas usually found in larger cities to events here in Charleston. Throughout our conversation, one theme keeps coming up. He loves the craft. He makes it clear that even if he lost everything, he would start over with a pair of turntables because that passion is what drives him. His advice for entrepreneurs is simple. Build a business around something you truly enjoy, because that will carry you through the challenges that come with the work. The post Building a Career One Beat at a Time with DJEJ [https://www.joejustice.org/building-a-career-one-beat-at-a-time-with-djej/] appeared first on Joe Justice Organization [https://www.joejustice.org].

The Productivity Mistake Almost Everyone Makes

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I talk about why so many people end the day worn out even when they stayed busy the whole time. The problem is not the amount of work. It is the constant switching between different kinds of work. I break down how analytical work, creative work, and conversations with people all require different ways of thinking. Every time we jump from one to another, our brain has to reset, and that costs time and energy. I share how getting into the zone is where the best work happens, but it takes time to get there. You cannot expect to move from spreadsheets to brainstorming to a difficult conversation and perform at your best every time. That is why multitasking is a myth and why interruptions make it so hard to stay productive. I explain how time blocking gives your brain the chance to settle into one type of work before moving to the next. Instead of mixing tasks throughout the day, I encourage grouping similar work together for several hours at a time. I also walk through how I structure my own day and why it helps me get more done with less stress. If you want to finish the day with more energy and better results, start organizing your calendar around the way your brain works instead of fighting against it. The post The Productivity Mistake Almost Everyone Makes [https://www.joejustice.org/the-productivity-mistake-almost-everyone-makes/] appeared first on Joe Justice Organization [https://www.joejustice.org].

Building Multiple Revenue Streams with Aaron Wood

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I talk with Aaron Wood to talk about building multiple businesses and the lessons that came from growing them. Aaron shares how Quantum Sports Center led to a custom apparel company and then a party rental business. He explains that each venture filled a need and helped create steady revenue throughout the year. He also points out that growth is not just about making more money. It takes planning, cash flow, inventory, staffing, and the right systems to support it. We talk about the reality of solving problems every day, from licensing and inspections to staffing and customer service. Aaron admits his biggest mistake was letting one business grow faster than his team could handle, which created problems for both employees and customers. He encourages entrepreneurs to build a plan for every stage of growth instead of hoping they will figure it out later. Aaron also shares the challenges of running businesses with high overhead and explains why people often misunderstand the costs behind recreational sports. He talks about the struggle to find dependable employees and why staying calm under pressure is one of the most important skills a business owner can develop. We wrap up by discussing smart marketing, lessons learned from expensive software purchases, the importance of investing in safety, and why standing behind the value of your work matters even when customers push for discounts. The post Building Multiple Revenue Streams with Aaron Wood [https://www.joejustice.org/building-multiple-revenue-streams-with-aaron-wood/] appeared first on Joe Justice Organization [https://www.joejustice.org].

The Truth About Owning a Business with Tina White

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I talk with Tina White to talk about what it really takes to build a business. She laughs about thinking business ownership would mean making her own schedule and having more free time, but the reality is the exact opposite. We talk about the long hours, the pressure, and why success comes from staying committed when things get hard. Tina shares how a conversation with her insurance agent led her into the industry. We also get into the other parts of her life, including singing, leading worship, teaching fitness classes, and playing softball. For her, life is about participating instead of sitting on the sidelines. One lesson that stands out is learning not to take rejection personally. She views business as building relationships, so losing a client can feel personal. Even so, she keeps reminding herself to let it go, trust the process, and remember that people often return when they know they were treated well. We also discuss the biggest misconceptions about entrepreneurship. Business owners do not work less. They work more, manage risk, watch every dollar, and make hard decisions. Tina believes purpose is worth the sacrifice, even if it means giving up the comfort of a regular schedule. We wrap up by talking about the challenges facing independent insurance agents as more people buy coverage online without understanding what they are purchasing. Tina explains why having someone who knows your situation still matters. Her advice for entrepreneurs is simple. Manage your time, avoid spending money on marketing that cannot be measured, never give up, and always have hope. The post The Truth About Owning a Business with Tina White [https://www.joejustice.org/the-truth-about-owning-a-business-with-tina-white/] appeared first on Joe Justice Organization [https://www.joejustice.org].

Hannah Hage on Insurance, Burnout, and Faith

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I talk with Hannah Hage of First American Insurance to talk about business, insurance, burnout, and faith. Hannah got into insurance because people kept telling her she would be good at it. She did not plan on that path, but once she started, she found that helping people fit who she was. Her work centers on protecting people through home, auto, and business insurance. She helps families close on homes by finding insurance that works with their debt-to-income limits. She also helps people shop auto coverage, lower rates when possible, and protect what they own if life takes a turn. Hannah explains that many people misunderstand insurance. It is not there for home maintenance or every small issue. It is there for major losses. When someone owns a home, they also takes on the duty to maintain it. We also talk about the pressure in the insurance market. Storms and claims can cause companies to tighten up, raise rates, or stop taking certain business. That is why Hannah values having access to several insurance companies instead of relying on one option. Her biggest lesson came from trying to help everyone. Two years in, word of mouth had her working 16-hour days. Her health suffered, and she knew something had to change. She hired help, even though it meant breaking even for a time. Hannah’s best $100 purchase was candy jars for referral partners. Her biggest waste was a billboard. Her advice to other entrepreneurs is to keep going, even after bad days, weeks, or months. She is also learning to slow down, live in the moment, and count her blessings. At the center of her life is her faith. No matter what people do or say, she believes God takes care of her. People can reach Hannah at First American Insurance or call or text 304-380-9356. The post Hannah Hage on Insurance, Burnout, and Faith [https://www.joejustice.org/hannah-hage-on-insurance-burnout-and-faith/] appeared first on Joe Justice Organization [https://www.joejustice.org].