JellyBean Business

Author: JellyEllyBean

  • Monthly Mood Board – May 2026

    I can’t believe May is almost over. It feels like I just posted my April monthly mood board, which honestly sounds crazy to say. But anyway, happy May, everyone! If you’re from the New England area, I’m sure you experienced those few extremely hot days we had. I both loved and hated them at the same time. I love warm weather, but usually I have time to prepare for it. That heat came out of nowhere! Now the AC has been running, and somehow we’re back down to 60 degrees. Gotta love New England weather!

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    I’ve been so busy with school and work lately, and being pregnant while trying to keep up with my usual responsibilities has been so much harder than I expected. I’m tired all the time. I’ve never experienced this level of exhaustion for this long, and honestly, I still don’t know how to manage it. I remember hearing almost every pregnant woman say that at some point, they get this incredible burst of energy. Well, I’m here to say that definitely doesn’t happen for everyone. I’m not sure if it’s because I already do so much and was already drained before pregnancy, but it still really sucks to feel like almost all of my energy is gone. I even miss being able to aggressively clean my house. Now I grab a broom, and I’m already huffing and puffing just from taking it out of the closet. Sigh!

    Regardless of how exhausted I’ve been, I’ve also been preparing for sweet baby boy to arrive, and I honestly have never been more excited. Even though I know I’ll probably be ten times more tired once he’s here, I’m still looking forward to waking up every day with a little human to care for and pour my attention into. I never really envisioned myself having children, so it’s such a strange but beautiful feeling to experience. Lately, though, I’ve just been leaning into it more and more. I love filling up his tiny closet, and seeing his little bassinet right beside my bed makes everything feel even more real and exciting. We also got his stroller, and sometimes I catch myself pushing it around the house, already imagining taking it out for a real walk, with a tiny baby inside. Safe to say, the more baby things I see, the more excited I get for his arrival.

    I do have to admit, though, that I’m nervous about giving birth. I try my best to put my faith and trust in the Lord instead of giving in to fear and worry. I also remind myself that women have been doing this since the beginning of time, and that helps ground me a little. This is such an exciting and rewarding challenge, and I know I can get through it. Right now, I’m focusing on mentally preparing myself, praying whenever fear or anxiety starts creeping in, and trusting that my body will do what it was designed to do — to keep me safe during delivery and bring my baby boy into the world healthy and strong. So please send me all the kindness, prayers, and motivational words as I continue to process everything that is to come!

    Well, that’s my monthly mood board update for you all! I’m looking forward to sharing where I’m at next month, too. My baby shower is coming up soon, and I’m definitely excited about that. I’m also really looking forward to slowing down and relaxing a bit more as the academic year winds down. Before I know it, I’ll be on maternity leave, and honestly, I can’t wait for that time away from work and school. I’m excited to fully focus on this new role as a mother and embrace everything that comes with it.

    Until next time, everyone — I hope you all have an amazing rest of your May!

    -JellyBean

  • Monthly Mood Board – April 2026

    Happy April, everyone 🌸. The weather’s finally warming up, flowers are starting to bloom… and somehow my energy levels are still pretty low 😅. I just wrapped up the last week of my first term in my master’s program, and I’m about to jump into the second. I’m excited for what’s ahead, but man, I am tired. Really hoping a long, peaceful break finds its way to me soon. Pray for me, y’all!

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    The other day, it snowed here in New England, and I was not here for it. I was so bummed to see it, but thankfully, it melted pretty quickly. Still, I’m really hoping that was the last of it because I truly can’t deal with any more snow. I don’t mind the rain as much, but we definitely need some sunshine. On the days I work from home, it still gets a bit chilly, and I just want to be able to leave the windows and sliding door open. Mother Nature clearly has other plans. It’s not even nice enough yet to sit out on my deck and repot my plants, which really need it, by the way. Spring is taking forever to show up. Honestly, it’s being a little selfish.

    I’ve been wanting to go on a cruise for a while now, but I haven’t really taken the time to plan one yet. Now that I’m pregnant, I don’t think my husband and I will be able to make it happen anytime soon, but it’s definitely something I want to prioritize in the next couple of years. In the meantime, I’d love to start learning more about cruises and how to plan one properly. I don’t have much experience with cruising (or traveling in general, honestly!), so I’m pretty new to all of this and open to any advice. If you have any tips, I’d really appreciate you sharing them! I’d also love to hear about your favorite cruise experiences or any you’d highly recommend 😊.

    I’ve also been thinking about starting a baby blog where I can share my journey into motherhood; what it’s like becoming a first-time mom, the experiences that come with it, and how I’m learning to cope with such a big life change. For a long time, I didn’t picture myself having kids. It just wasn’t a priority for me. But my life has changed in so many ways, and at some point, having a baby sounded exciting. Now that it’s actually happening, reality is definitely setting in, and I’m realizing just how much preparation, growth, and adjustment this new chapter requires.

    There’s so much advice out there about becoming a parent; everyone seems to have something to say. I think this blog could be my way of exploring all of it for myself: figuring out what works, what doesn’t, and what this experience truly feels like from my own perspective. I want it to be honest and genuine, a space where I can share my thoughts, lessons, and experiences as I grow into this new role. If nothing else, it’ll be something I can look back on, but I also hope it might connect with or help other first-time moms going through something similar.

    I’ve always loved writing, and if I were better at organizing my thoughts and making time for it, I’d probably do it more often. With this new chapter in my life, I’m hoping to find fresh inspiration and new things to write about. There’s so much I could talk about, so in the meantime, I’d love to start putting my writing skills to use and explore different topics throughout the month. If there’s anything you think I should write about or address, I’m always open to suggestions! Otherwise, I’ll do my best to share what I can, when I can. Between work and school, I’m sure I can come up with something that might resonate with someone out there.

    Until next time, friends!

    -JellyBean

  • Monthly Mood Board – March 2026

    Hello, everyone! I know it’s been a while. December was definitely a busy month, but honestly, I feel like everyone says that. Between wrapping up work for the fall semester, finishing my own coursework for my bachelor’s program, and planning for the holidays, it was a lot. I had every intention of putting together a monthly mood board back in December, but… life happens.

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    Now it’s March 2026, so—Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, Happy Valentine’s Day, and everything in between! I have to admit, I haven’t been the biggest fan of winter. It really brought my mood down, and I wish it hadn’t. I know winter has its purpose, and I truly believe God created each season for a reason, so I’m trying to build a better relationship with it, but it’s not easy. I definitely miss the summer. The good news is that we’re officially in spring now, and I couldn’t be happier about that. Even though winter wasn’t my favorite, a lot of wonderful things have still happened, so I can’t complain too much.

    Based on the header image, I think you can guess where I’m headed with my next monthly mood update… I miss Disney so much! I wish I had more time and money to visit, but responsibilities have to come first. Even if I don’t always want to admit it, they do. Lately, I’ve also been missing summer. I’m so ready for blooming plants, green grass, sunshine, cookouts, even the bugs! I was born in the summer, so maybe it’s only natural that I love it as much as I do. I wonder if other summer babies feel the same way. It can’t just be me, right? Otherwise, no one would choose to live in the warmer parts of the country. I’d move in a heartbeat if I could, but my husband is firmly rooted in New England. It makes me a little sad, but maybe one day I’ll get the chance to soak up more sun and warmth.

    On a completely different note, I found out in late December that I’m going to be a mom. Right now, I’m taking this journey one day at a time. As my first pregnancy, it hasn’t been too overwhelming. I know many people have more intense experiences, so I wouldn’t describe mine as dramatic, but it is new, unfamiliar, and constantly changing. My body is shifting in ways I never expected, and it’s honestly fascinating. There are sensations I can’t fully explain unless you’ve been through it yourself. But if you have, you probably understand exactly what I mean. Overall, it’s an exciting new chapter, and I’m really looking forward to becoming a mom and seeing how this part of my life grows and evolves.

    If I had to choose a color to match my current mood, it would be sky blue. I’ve always loved that color, and lately I’ve been craving brighter, clearer skies instead of all this gray. There’s something so comforting about the warmth of the sun and the way a bright sky can instantly lift my mood. My husband, on the other hand, isn’t a fan of waking up to sunlight, but I absolutely love it. There’s something special about being gently woken by the sun’s warmth. It makes the start of the day feel peaceful and full of possibility. Personally, I’d rather wake up and embrace the whole day than sleep through it. For me, blocking out the sunlight makes it too easy to oversleep and slip into laziness, and that just doesn’t feel good. But of course, that’s just me; everyone has their own preferences, and some people truly enjoy sleeping in and waking up in the dark.

    Well, that’s all I have for today. I hope you’re all doing well, and I’d love for you to share your current moods too! I’m hoping to do this every month, along with other pieces I’m able to put out. Talk to you all soon! ✌🏼

    -JellyBean

  • The Park Plate

    I hope you’re all having a wonderful week and an even better start to holiday adventures! October was such a whirlwind for my husband and me — busy, but so full of joy. We just returned from our honeymoon in Orlando, Florida, where we spent our days hopping between Disney parks and exploring Epic Universe. It was an absolute dream come true! As sad as I was to leave, I’m also happy to be back home and excited to share some delicious food reviews with you all.

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    Before I dive in, I just want to say that these reviews are entirely based on my own opinions and experiences — they’re not meant to discourage anyone from trying all the fantastic food and wine Epcot has to offer during its International Food & Wine Festival. I’d like to encourage everyone to taste, explore, and form their own opinions, while keeping in mind that hearing others’ experiences can sometimes help shape your own!

    The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant

    The food was honestly so amazing! I was ridiculously excited to sit down for a real meal for a change — usually when I’m at Universal or Disney, I’m power-snacking and sprinting to the next ride. But this place? Totally worth slowing down for. It’s located in Universal’s Epic Universe, and I’d absolutely recommend giving it a try. These were just a few of the dishes we got to sample from their menu, and everything hit the spot. Overall, I’d give the experience a solid 8.9 out of 10!

    Around the World at Epcot!

    • China (image 2; top to bottom)
      Smoked Duck Bao Bun with Pickled Cucumber, Scallion, and Hoisin Sauce: 7.4, Super good, and my first time trying duck!
      Beijing Zhajiang Noodles with Stir-fried Minced Beef, Cucumber, Chili, and Carrots in a savory Douban Sauce: 7.2, Lots of good flavor!
      Frozen Strawberry-Jasmine Cocktail: Light Rum, Jasmine Tea, and Strawberry Syrup: 7.8, OMG so good! I love a fruity and sweet drink!
    • Milled & Mulled (image 3; top to bottom/left to right)
      Butternut Squash and Ginger Bisque with Cinnamon Cream, Toasted Pumpkin Seeds, and Pumpkin Seed Oil: 7.9, It tasted like fall on an 80 degree day! LOVE!
      Fall Fruit Cheesecake featuring Boursin Fig & Balsamic Cheese with Pomegranates and Candied Pecans: 7.8, Fig, honestly, never tasted better! One of my favorite treats overall.
      Unfortunately, I’m not sure which wine that was, and it wasn’t all that memorable, so it doesn’t seem fair to rate it.
    • Mexico (image 3; top to bottom/left to right)
      Tostada de Carnitas: Braised Pork atop a Fried Corn Tortilla with Chipotle Black Beans, Salsa Ranchera, Crema Mexicana, and Queso Fresco: 7.5, Again, lots of flavor and rich in Mexican spice.
      Flan de Cajeta: Creamy Mexican Custard with Caramel Sauce and Toasted Almonds: 7.6, Super good, super creamy!
      Strawberry-Pomegranate Margarita: 100% Agave Blanco Tequila, Joven Mezcal, Pomegranate Liqueur, Strawberry Purée, and Spicy Agave: 8.2, Love a margarita that’s well balanced!
    • Australia (image 3; top to bottom/left to right)
      Grilled Bushberry-spiced Shrimp Skewer       with Sweet-and-Sour Vegetables and Coconut-Chili Sauce: 7.2, My husband enjoyed it, but there were others he favored more.
      Roasted Lamb Chop with Mint Pesto and Crushed Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips: 8.0, I LOVE lamb, so this was amazing.
      Mixed Berry Pavlova with Crunchy Meringue Shell, Macerated Berries, and Whipped Cream: 3.4, We SOOO badly wanted to enjoy this, but it was not what we were expecting.
      Unfortunately, I’m not sure which wine that was, and it wasn’t all that memorable, so it doesn’t seem fair to rate it.
    • Karamell Küche (image 4; top to bottom/left to right)
      Mickey Marshmallow: Chocolate-dipped with caramel drizzle: 9.0, How can you go wrong with a chocolate dipped marsh?! LOVE!
    • Coastal Eats (image 4; top to bottom/left to right)
      Peruvian Ceviche with Mahi Mahi, Shrimp, Sweet Potato, Chulpe, Choclo, and Leche de Tigre: 6.5, My husband thought it was quite refreshing and it was my first time trying it. Not too bad!
      Boyd & Blair Pomegranate Codder, Glenshaw PA: 6.7, Not too bad. I’m not a big wine or beer gal, so this was a tasty experience!
    • Belgium (image 4; top to bottom/left to right)
      Beer-braised Beef       served with Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes: 7.6, I love mashed potatoes. They are honestly one of my favorite sides to almost any dish!
    • Canada (image 5; clockwise)
      Cheddar and Bacon Soup served with a Pretzel Roll: 7.3, Very basic, but still so good!
      Filet Mignon with Mushrooms and Mashed Potatoes featuring Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs Cheese: 8.0, Steak is one of my favorite indulgences, so it’s the perfect little snack for me!
    • Japan (image 5; clockwise)
      Peachy Mango Boba      : Crafted Calpico Peach Juice with Mango Popping Boba (non-alcoholic): 7.3, Very refreshing and tasty!
      Osakana Karaage: Crispy-fried Pollock with Spicy Mayonnaise and a Sweet-and-Creamy Yuzu Sauce: 7.8, These were actually so good! I wasn’t even sure what they were, but super delicious!
    • Earth Eats (image 5; clockwise)
      Red Wine-braised Beef Short Rib       with Goat Cheese Polenta, Puttanesca Sauce, Shaved Pecorino Cheese, and Petit Herbs: 7.2, This was all my husband! I’d say he enjoyed it.
    • Forest & Field (image 6; top to bottom/left to right)
      Autumn Chili featuring Impossible Beef with Root Vegetables, Plant-based Cheddar, and Plant-based Sour Cream in a Bread Bowl: 4.0, Listen, don’t come for me, okay? I’m all for a vegan/vegetarian dish, but this was cold and believe it or not, dry!
    • Brazil (image 6; top to bottom/left to right)
      Feijoada: Black Beans with Pork Belly and Brazil Nut Pesto, featuring BEN’S ORIGINAL Long Grain White Rice: 8.2, The pork was delicious!
    • Gyozas of the Galaxy (image 6; top to bottom/left to right)
      Street Corn-style Dumplings: Chicken Dumplings with Tomatillo Salsa Verde, Street Corn Salad, Cotija Cheese, Lime Crema, and Cilantro: 7.6, This was super good and was the first dish we got to try!
      Pineapple Colada: White Rum, DOLE Pineapple Juice, and Sweetened Coconut Milk: 8.2, No brainer here. Super yummy!

    We didn’t get to try everything on the menu, but it was such a treat to be able to sample these few items. To think — there were countries we didn’t even make it to! I’m really looking forward to going again soon and trying different foods from around the world, budget-friendly style!

    -JellyBean

  • Marketing Perspective with Ordinary Adventures!

    I watch a wide variety of influencers, mostly on YouTube, but the two that I resonate with the most would have to be Peter and Kitra from Ordinary Adventures. These two have been creating content for the past six years, sharing their love for theme parks, travel, and pop culture adventures. Although I only discovered them a few years ago, I feel like I’ve been a part of their journey all along, from watching them explore new parks to celebrating milestones with their audience. Their authenticity and enthusiasm make every video feel like you’re tagging along with friends, which, I think, is a huge part of their appeal and success as influencers.

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    One thing I’ve noticed about Ordinary Adventures’ marketing style is how transparent and honest Peter and Kitra are in their reviews, whether they’re visiting theme parks, different states, or even new countries. I always get so excited when they release a new episode on YouTube or Patreon because I know I’m about to see a high-quality, thoughtfully made video from creators who truly love what they do.

    What stands out most is their authenticity. They don’t just show the highlights; they share the full experience — the good, the not-so-great, and everything in between. That kind of honesty builds trust with their audience, which is one of the most powerful marketing tools there is.

    Personally, their videos have completely changed the way I think about travel. I was never someone who dreamed of exploring the world, but now, because of Ordinary Adventures, I’ve developed a genuine desire to travel, especially to Disney and Universal theme parks. Once I finally got to experience one for myself, I was hooked!

    Their style of marketing has a unique way of connecting with a wide variety of people: from those who are already frequent travelers to those, like me, who might be a little hesitant but curious. And for viewers who can’t travel, Peter and Kitra provide the next best thing — the chance to live vicariously through their adventures.

    Peter and Kitra do an awesome job of advertising different ways their audience can connect with them. For example, their subscribers can join their Patreon, which not only helps support their channel but also offers extra opportunities for engagement. It’s a smart way to build community beyond YouTube. Personally, I love that they use both platforms — when I need a little pick-me-up, I have two places to go for something fun and uplifting to watch.

    By expanding how their audience can interact with them, they’ve created multiple touch points for connection and learning. Recently, they even began offering exclusive packages for their Patreon subscribers that include travel resources for international destinations like Paris and Japan! I think this is such a brilliant idea — it rewards loyal fans while also sharing the knowledge and experience Peter and Kitra have gained from their own travels. This kind of marketing strategy, blending authenticity with accessibility and exclusive perks, makes their brand feel both personal and professional. It’s what drew me in even more, and I’m sure many others feel the same way.

    Peter and Kitra play a huge role in marketing simply by being themselves. They’ve become trusted voices in the travel and theme park community because of their genuine enthusiasm and honesty. When they share their experiences, whether it’s trying new food at Disneyland or exploring a faraway destination, it doesn’t feel like an ad; it feels like a recommendation from a friend. That’s what makes their influence so powerful. They’ve built a strong relationship with their audience, one based on trust and excitement, rather than sales or persuasion. In many ways, they’ve helped define what authentic marketing looks like today — they humanize brands, create emotional connections, and inspire people, like me, to explore more of the world around us.

    Peter and Kitra have a special way of making their audience feel like part of their adventures. Even though I’ve never met them, I still feel genuinely connected to them through the stories they share and the excitement they bring to each video. When they recommend a place to visit or a product to try, it doesn’t feel like marketing; it feels like advice from friends you trust. That kind of authenticity builds a relationship that’s based on community and emotion rather than simple promotion. I think that’s what makes Peter and Kitra so successful — they don’t just sell experiences, they share them, and in doing so, they make their viewers feel seen, included, and inspired.

    -JellyBean

    This post was written as part of my coursework for Social Media and Marketing Com.

  • Effectively Impacting the Consumer Through Digital Media

    Traveling can be stressful, especially for families with little ones in tow. Between juggling tickets, security lines, and the endless stream of “Are we there yet?” moments, the last thing parents want is to deal with a lost beloved toy. Yet sometimes those small crises are exactly what reveal the heart of a company’s customer service. This digital media example comes from Tampa International Airport, where a child’s lost stuffed tiger sparked a heartwarming story that not only reunited a toy with its owner but also showcased the airport’s commitment to care, creativity, and connection.

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    The digital media example I am choosing to focus on is titled Tale of Tiger’s Big Adventure: Customer Service. Based on the story of the tiger left at the airport by a little boy, I’d say Tampa International Airport hit their target audience successfully, primarily families, by prioritizing what matters most to customers: care, empathy, and going the extra mile. Saving the tiger was already a win, but choosing to write a story about its “adventures” transformed a simple act of kindness into a memorable, shareable moment. Not only did this make the child happy, but it reassured the parents that their child’s needs were accommodated during a vulnerable moment.

    This effort shows that Tampa International Airport is committed to more than just logistics; they’re willing to go out of their way to ensure their customers feel cared for. The family avoided a potentially stressful and disappointing situation, and instead walked away with an uplifting memory. By sharing the story, the airport sent a clear message that travelers’ belongings, and, by extension, their experiences, can be trusted in their hands. This kind of story especially resonates with families, since traveling with children often means dealing with lost items or unexpected challenges.

    From a marketing standpoint, the decision to post the story on social media was brilliant. It extended the impact far beyond the family involved, showcasing Tampa International Airport’s values to a national audience. Not only did the story highlight their commitment to service, but it also built emotional connection and brand loyalty, two things you can’t buy with traditional advertising.

    I think the story was executed very well, but one thing to consider is balance. If a company only shares flawless, feel-good stories, it can sometimes come across as trying too hard or presenting itself as “perfect.” Audiences tend to trust organizations more when they acknowledge that there’s always room to grow. By being open to feedback and continually striving to improve, Tampa International Airport can strengthen their authenticity while still celebrating the moments where they shine.

    The “Tale of Tiger’s Big Adventure” perfectly illustrates how Tampa International Airport (TPA) uses small acts of kindness to create big waves of customer loyalty. Saving a child’s lost toy and turning it into a shareable adventure showed families that the airport values care, empathy, and creativity as much as efficiency. By extending the story to social media, TPA transformed a one-time interaction into a memorable, heartwarming example of customer service at its best.

    Looking at what the company is doing now, TPA continues to reinforce these values across its website and social media:

    • Website: TPA’s site is designed to reduce stress for travelers. Key features like live flight status, pre-booking parking, and detailed guides for arriving or international passengers show their priority is clear, accessible information. They even encourage tools like Mobile Passport Control, which streamlines the customs process, reflecting their commitment to convenience.
    • Social Media: TPA’s online presence is personable, witty, and approachable. Their social media team balances fun posts (memes, traveler moments, community highlights) with serious updates when necessary. Importantly, they publish social media guidelines that outline fair engagement and moderation standards. This transparency shows ethical responsibility—travelers know the “rules of engagement,” which helps build trust. Their willingness to respond directly to user comments and spotlight personal traveler stories also strengthens authenticity and connection.

    From a marketing perspective, these digital practices extend the same ethos of care demonstrated in the tiger story. Ethical engagement on social media, being transparent, responsive, and human, amplifies their effectiveness by creating trust and emotional loyalty that traditional advertising cannot buy.

    That said, balance remains important. While feel-good stories and polished social media content help elevate the brand, TPA can strengthen authenticity by also showing how they respond to challenges or feedback. Owning those moments would complement the shine of stories like Tiger’s adventure and show they’re committed to continuous growth.

    In the end, Tampa International Airport’s mix of kindness, digital savvy, and ethical engagement builds a brand identity that travelers can trust. Whether through a rescued stuffed animal or clear online resources, their message is consistent: people come first.

    -JellyBean

    This post was written as part of my coursework for Social Media and Marketing Com.

    References
    Shorty Awards. (n.d.). Tale of Tiger’s Big Adventure Highlights Airport’s Commitment to Customer Service. Retrieved September 20, 2025, from https://shortyawards.com/8th/boy-leaves-stuffed-tiger-at-tpa-returns-to-a-tale-of-tigers-big-adventure-see-more-at-httpww

    Tampa International Airport. (n.d.). Homepage. Retrieved September 20, 2025, from https://www.tampaairport.com/

    Tampa International Airport. (n.d.). Tampa International Airport-FlyTPA [Facebook profile]. Retrieved September 20, 2025, from https://www.facebook.com/FlyTPA

  • The Happiness Equation: Management That Works

    Let me start by saying, I don’t have all the answers. I’m not a manager—I’m an employee who is managed. But because of that, I know exactly how I want to be treated and what I look for in a great manager. I think that perspective gives me plenty of reason to dive into this topic and share my thoughts.

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    From my personal experience, I can truthfully say I haven’t had much luck with management. Now, don’t get me wrong—I’m an excellent worker and my work ethic is commendable. But some people just aren’t meant to manage, and that’s okay! The question is … how can they be more effective within their role? We’ve all worked under a manager who was either too much of a pushover, way too strict, or flat-out didn’t care about their team. And if you don’t know one of each, then you definitely know the type—and can imagine what it might be like to work with them.

    There are many qualities that make a great manager or leader, but the real challenge comes down to knowing how to put those qualities into action when it matters most. For example, if a manager wants to practice inclusivity, they need to create space for open and honest conversations. This gives team members the chance to share how they’re feeling about their work, highlight areas that could be improved, and make sure their workload feels manageable. It also encourages employees to provide constructive feedback, helping the whole team grow together.

    Active listening is one of the most important skills a leader can practice. When managers genuinely hear their team’s concerns, employees feel valued, even in difficult conversations. But when people feel brushed off, they often take their frustrations elsewhere, which can harm morale and the organization as a whole. Active listening isn’t just about nodding along; it’s about creating an environment where employees trust that their voices matter. When managers prove they are willing to listen, they build stronger relationships, foster trust, and encourage open communication that benefits everyone.

    Transparency is very important when working with a unique group of individuals. It helps to build trust within the team and holds management accountable for their overall decision-making within the organization. Transparency also connects closely with strong problem-solving skills. When challenges arise, leaders who approach them with precision and openness not only resolve issues more effectively but also reassure their teams that decisions are made fairly and with integrity.

    Problem-solving isn’t just about finding quick fixes, it’s about analyzing situations carefully, weighing options, and communicating the reasoning behind chosen solutions. When managers are skilled in problem-solving, they create opportunities to involve their teams in the process, which further strengthens trust and collaboration. In this way, problem-solving and transparency go hand in hand: one supports the other, ensuring that decisions are not only sound but also understood and respected by everyone involved.

    One major consideration in leadership is emotional intelligence. It isn’t always easy for people to show empathy, and that’s okay—up to a certain degree. Expressing empathy doesn’t have to mean sharing in every personal struggle, but it does mean taking the time to understand the needs of your team. Strong managers are able to step outside of their own perspective when something is directly affecting a team member, meeting employees where they are. This approach helps team members feel that their personal lives are respected and valued. In turn, it reduces resentment that can build when employees feel overlooked or dismissed. Emotional intelligence, therefore, isn’t about being overly sentimental—it’s about creating an environment where people feel supported as whole individuals, not just as workers.

    I’ve worked with managers who struggled to put these qualities into practice, and it can be tough on employees. No one is perfect, and everyone has room to grow, but how can a manager grow if they aren’t willing to touch the surface? Honestly, this reflection comes from my own experiences: what I’ve seen in the workplace, what I believe good management looks like, and the kind of leader I hope to become. While every manager’s style may differ, the core qualities of good leadership remain the same. The key is intentionally incorporating them and recognizing how they impact not only your work but also the work of your team.

    One thing is for sure: when my time comes to manage or lead, I want to inspire others the way I’ve always hoped to be inspired by a leader. I know I’ll make mistakes along the way, but growth is what matters most. Some leaders get stuck in their ways, and while it might be easy to shrug it off, the truth is—it’s not fine. Employees need to know they can rely on their manager when it really counts. A manager doesn’t need to be a best friend, but they do need to be a steady source of support for their team.

    -JellyBean

    References

    Raeburn, A. (2025, February 12). What makes a good manager? 10 qualities to lead successful teams. Retrieved from https://asana.com

  • Branding: A Day in the Life

    Hi all! I hope you’re having a nice start to the week. We do get Labor Day off after all—well, some of us anyway. Let’s dive into today’s topic: Branding!

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    The sites I typically visit in my free time are YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and, if it counts, my email. I’m not really big on social media and have found myself drifting away from popular platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, and X. Lately, I’ve also been exploring tools like Mailchimp and Patreon. As I aim to grow in content creation, I’ve become increasingly invested in digital media platforms that enable me to connect with others in meaningful and impactful ways. It’s not that the ones I don’t use can’t offer that, but for what I hope to accomplish, these platforms make the most sense for me.

    Mailchimp is an online tool that enables users to send emails to large groups of people simultaneously, such as newsletters, promotions, or announcements. Instead of writing one email at a time, you can design one message and send it to hundreds (or thousands) of subscribers automatically. Patreon is a website where fans can financially support their favorite creators, such as vloggers, artists, podcasters, writers, or musicians, by making regular donations. In return, the fans (called “patrons”) often receive special perks, such as behind-the-scenes content, early access, or exclusive extras.

    Typically, when I’m using YouTube, Mailchimp, or Patreon, I feel at peace and fully invested. Other platforms, such as Instagram and Facebook, tend to stress me out, yet they still manage to pull me in. Between YouTube and Patreon, especially, these two have heavily influenced my desire to work in content creation. Because of my introverted personality paired with a strong desire to build community, I find these platforms especially easy to connect with. The ability to explore diverse content has shown me different ways to engage with others, whether through blogging or vlogging. Over time, these positive interactions have made me less anxious when conversing with others and have encouraged me to connect with people on a deeper, more meaningful level.

    One thing I’ve noticed about digital media in marketing today is that many small and large businesses rely heavily on social media to sell, promote, and advertise what they offer to consumers. I think this is fantastic, because instead of being limited to one area or region, businesses can reach a much wider audience and increase their chances of connecting with potential stakeholders. I’ve also noticed that people are more involved with digital media now than ever before. Many use it for personal or professional purposes and have found real success through the time and effort they invest. Social media, in particular, has helped countless individuals become well-known among diverse audiences, especially when they remain consistent, personable, and relatable.

    – JellyBean

    This post was written as part of my coursework for Social Media and Marketing Com.

  • I Never Know What to Say!

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    Starting conversations has always been hard for me. I never know what to say, and I get so anxious, stuck in my head, and drained. For a while, I called myself an “introverted extrovert,” but really, I do love engaging with people, I just let fear get in the way.

    There have been so many times I wanted to speak up, to encourage someone, or to simply join in, but I froze. I overthought my words, questioned my value, and let moments pass me by. Afterwards, I’d replay it all in my head and feel like I had missed my chance. It’s exhausting, carrying that constant battle between wanting connection and retreating into silence.

    But lately, I’ve been realizing something: fear has stolen enough from me. My passion has always been to help people and make a difference in their lives, but I can’t do that if I keep hiding. At some point, I had to ask myself, at what cost? At what cost do I keep my distance, when community is what my soul craves?

    So I’ve decided: I want to be a better communicator, someone who can listen deeply, encourage freely, and speak with authenticity. That means taking steps that scare me. Networking. Saying hello first. Showing up even when my instinct is to pull away. And most importantly, leaning on God for strength. I know He didn’t create me to live in fear, but to live boldly, with love.

    And so, this is my testimony: fear is outdated. It doesn’t belong in my story anymore. Community is vital. Communication is powerful. If you’ve ever felt like me, wanting connection but holding yourself back, I want you to know you’re not alone. It’s possible to grow. It’s possible to change.

    Break the barriers. Step out of hiding. Start connecting with others in a meaningful, impactful way. You never know who might need your words, your encouragement, or simply your presence.

    – JellyBean