In this episode of Recovery + Progresswe will hear from Jess Ekstrom. Jess is the founder of Headbands of Hope and Mic Release Workshop. She also invests in women-owned businesses, is a two-time best-selling author, a best-selling speaker, and a new mom. Jess and her companies are featured in today, Good morning America, 17 magazine, Vanity Fair, Forbes, The peopleand most importantly, they have helped millions of women and girls around the world.

For years, Jess Ekstrom avoided talking about a formative event in her family life — her family being scammed out of money by her uncle, Bernie Madoff. But on the show, she explains what prompted her to start talking about formative challenges and how true optimism isn't naive.

In this episode you will hear:

• How Jessie turned a family scandal into fuel for her entrepreneurial journey.
• The shocking pay gap revelation that inspired Jess to stand up for female speakers.
• Why simplifying complex ideas is key to connecting with your audience.
• How embracing vulnerability can amplify your impact as a speaker and leader.

Below I'll share some of my favorite quotes from my conversation with Jess:

For authentic expertise:

“Many times, what you teach others is what didn't come naturally to you. It's what you have to will yourself to learn and practice.”

The Power of Simplicity:

“I like to simplify the complex for people. We make things very complicated, whether it's entrepreneurship, speaking or writing. I like to make things feel accessible to someone.”

Embrace war in the story:

“No one wants to learn from someone who is naturally good at something. Sometimes the greatest lessons you have to share with others come from your worst moments.”

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