Jenna Abdou: Host and Producer at 33voices

Early on, Jenna aspired to pursue a career in journalism. Her family has a lot of footage of her interviewing my brother with a stick from when she was just three years old. She has always been fascinated by the world around her. She never stopped talking and asking questions. Later, she developed the goal of becoming a sports reporter, which eventually evolved into hosting a news show. Soon after, she started podcasting, which unfolded in several ways. She loved hearing learning about people’s journeys and how people got to where they are today. Currently, Jenna serves as the host & producer of the podcast, 33voices, where she profiles entrepreneurs and change-makers and hosts authentic conversations with the goal of empowering our world. 

When was a time you wanted to give up, and what made you preserve through it?

I had no experience in running podcasts, and I did not have many business skills. This all happened serendipitously. Six months in, I was in a meeting, I worked with my dad and he was asking everyone, “What do you read?” I did not read anything about business or any books that someone in a professional position would read. I was really embarrassed that I did not have anything to say that day. I ended up stumbling into this blog called the First Round Review. I digested that blog and really expanded my knowledge on business through that blog. I did not have a business background, so I was not able to comprehend some of the vocabulary people used. The blog allowed me to understand things on a stronger level. The creator of the blog is Camille Ricketts, and she became a hero for me. One day, my mom said, “Why don't you interview her. I ended up reaching out and she became a good friend of mine and a mentor for me. They helped me in more ways than I would have ever dreamed of. 

Who do you look up to?

I have a lot of people in my life that I am really grateful for.  I have always been supported by my parents. They fostered my curiosity and supported me with editing and sorting through my projects. They have guided me and inspired me in ways I would have never expected. At the end of the day, it always comes back to my parents. I started the podcast when I was in college in the summer. I had no idea what I was doing and my parents helped me revise the questions, send emails, and edit episodes. The support that they gave me was something I will never be able to repay them for. They really encouraged me to start this journey and helped me every step of the way. They helped me grow as an individual. I am very appreciative of everything they have done for me. They have done countless other things for me, but in the professional world, they have given me opportunities I would have never had otherwise. I definitely would not be where I am today professionally or personally without them. 

What advice would you give your younger self?

Your family and friends are the most important thing in your life. You should try to design your life to spend as much time as you can with them. Always make sure that your priorities are straight. I would also tell myself to start meditation early. It's a very valuable tool. 

What advice would you give others who aspire to be like you?

Do not be afraid to ask for help. Most people really do want to help you, especially when you are young. They are eager to help the next generation. I asked for help with everything that I did. You can gain a lot of guidance from people, and they will be really supportive. Sometimes, it is really nerve-wracking to ask for help as it can seem like you do not know what you are doing. However, the reality is that everyone did not know what they were doing and at one point in their lives. They used to be in your shoes. You will save yourself from so much stress about not knowing how to do something. We, often, become afraid to ask for help. But, also be very respectful of their time and advice. 

What is an unexpected challenge you faced throughout your career?

I had the assumption that success happens very quickly. I apologized to my parents for failing them several times, and they would just laugh. Someone recently told me to forget about timelines. You never know when things are going to happen in your life and you cannot predict time. You need to be present. I also thought interviewing people would be easier. I learned quickly that was not the case. Every interview will be different. It will be unique and that's what makes it good. Do your best. Do not beat yourself up when things do not go your way. You are human. If there is a football team and they have sixteen games to play, you would never expect a team to win all sixteen games. It is very rare.  But, we expect ourselves to always win all sixteen games.

What drives you?

Sharing knowledge and stories that can help people live happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives. I get so excited when I'm sharing something about mindset, mental health, and professional insight. I appreciate people opening up, and sharing their stories with others. The more that we learn from others the more that we can be united and rise.

What is the largest surprise you have witnessed in your life?

I realized that you have to find your own truth and live by your own values, You should not let others define who you are and what your values are. You have to figure out what you want in life, not what others want in life. Money, power, fame, or professional success are not the most important things in life. You have to understand what your definition of success is and live your life in accordance with that. 

If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?

I would hope that everyone has a place that they can call home. They should feel comfortable with who they are and completely be themselves. I want everyone to have a place where they can go and feel a sense of belonging.