182: Jennifer Eklund on Being Genuinely Thoughtful

Click the play button below to listen to the podcast episode.

thoughtfulAs a lifelong pianist, Jennifer Eklund has embodied the American entrepreneurial spirit since she was a teenager. She worked as a performer and teacher for twenty years before diving head-on into running her music book publishing company, Piano Pronto

Publishing, full-time, starting in 2014. A trailblazer in the evolving print music industry, Eklund is an avid composer of educational piano music and now represents and publishes the works of a growing number of independent composers.

Playing Small Moment

Jennifer says for musicians small moments can come on an almost daily basis. She had created a curriculum she felt needed to be seen in the publishing industry. She accepted many rejection letters before standing her ground and questioning them on why they thought the world didn’t need it.

The Wake Up Call

Jennifer had a contract meeting with a major publisher which made her feel like she would be signing away her life. They edited her piece of music and took all the fun out of it. She knew at that moment she needed to stay independent so she would have control over her own work.

Style of Leadership

Jennifer has a very personal and hands-on leadership style.

What Are You Excited About?

After a summit, Jennifer offered to mentor someone she knew from social media. The venture has since turned into her core business at Piano Pronto. She is excited to create a loyal community of composers who wish to publish their works.

Current Business Challenge

Jennifer is challenged with managing her time. She realizes she needs to take more time for herself and her creative endeavors.

Your Support System

When Jennifer first started her business she was responsible for every function of the business. She now has a team of people she can rely on to help run the business.

Leadership Practice

Jennifer wakes up really early to review her list of short-term and long-term goals.

Book to Develop Leadership

The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership, by John Maxwell

Linchpin, by Seth Godin

Advice For Younger Self

“Be more curious about the inner working of things.”

Inspirational Quote

“You are the star, and the life is your stage. It’s up to you whether or not the audience shouts for an encore.”

Links

Website: www.PianoPronto.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PianoPronto/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pianoteachercentral/

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Zebralove Web SolutionsYour website tells a story about your business! At Zebralove Web Solutions, Milly and her team are going to make sure your website tells the story you want your customers to hear. Connect with Milly at zebralovewebsolutions.com to create the impression you want to make!

Let’s Chat!

If you’re interested in finding out more about my process, the cost of coaching, or how to ask your employer to pay for you to work with a coach, schedule a time to chat with me.

You can also access the checklist that will help you prepare to ask your company to sponsor you to work with a coach. https://womentakingthelead.com/checklist

Apply to be on an “On-Air Coaching” episode: Are you a female leader who has been promoted in the last year? You are invited to apply to be on the podcast.

Resources

Leadership Operating System Quiz: Wondering what kind of Leadership traits you have? Take this FREE, FAST quiz and find out more about yourself as a Leader.

Accomplished: How to Go from Dreaming to DoingThe book containing a simple, step by step system that gives you the foundation and structure to take your goals and make them happen.

The Women Taking the Lead Podcast

If you enjoyed this episode, follow in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Stitcher Radio, Amazon Music or Pandora and never miss out!