In the latest episode of Uncomfortable Growth® Uncut, Rowena Millward sits down with Jacquie Alley, the COO of The Media Store. The episode is a deep dive into the often tumultuous journey of transitioning from an employee to a business owner, a topic that resonates with many in today’s fast-paced work environment.
Jackie opens up about her beginnings in the family business, sharing how her initial reluctance to step into a leadership role transformed into a profound commitment to the agency’s success. She reflects on the challenges that come with ownership, particularly the unexpected pressure and responsibility that weighs heavily on her shoulders. The conversation highlights the stark reality of business ownership—the highs can be exhilarating, while the lows can be crushing.
One of the key themes explored in this episode is the importance of vulnerability in leadership. Jackie shares her experiences of embracing her imperfections and how this openness has fostered a stronger connection with her team. By modelling authenticity, she encourages others to do the same, creating a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
The discussion also touches on the delicate balance of work and family life. Jackie candidly speaks about the sacrifices made and the lessons learned while navigating her professional responsibilities alongside her role as a mother. This aspect of the conversation is particularly relatable for many listeners, as it reflects the ongoing struggle to achieve work-life balance in a demanding world.
My three favourite quotes from Jacquie’s story are:
“The lessons that you learn along the way and pushing yourself into uncomfortable places is irrespective of the outcome of the business. It’s. It’s journey along the way.”
“I think I’ve become more and more comfortable with who I am and the hot mess that I often am.”
“I’ve still got lots to learn, and I want to be that person who’s in her 90s, still being curious about the world and who I am. so I think I’ve learned that about myself, that, I never want to get to a place where I think I’ve nailed it.”
Tune in to this insightful episode to gain inspiration from Jacquie’s journwey and discover how you, too, can turn your struggles into strengths. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or simply navigating life’s complexities, there’s something for everyone in this engaging conversation.
The world doesn’t need more stories of success; it needs honest conversations about hard challenges, vulnerability, and proof that trials can ultimately become triumphs.
That’s why the Uncomfortable Growth® Uncut podcast was born. It’s a reminder that struggle and success are intrinsically linked, that growth is rarely easy, and that the moments we feel most uncomfortable are where our greatest breakthroughs lie.