In episode 710, Jessica Vogl shares her journey from corporate PR to full-time food blogging, including the mindset and strategies that helped her make the leap.

Jessica Vogl is the face behind This Jess Cooks, where she shares simple baking and sourdough discard recipes. She also shares tips and tricks to help get your own sourdough starter up and running, so if you're in your sourdough era (or if you want to be!), then she's your person! Jessica is based in Chicago with her husband and son, and they recently bought a house that they are renovating.

In this episode, you’ll learn what it really takes to leave a secure career and dive fully into blogging. Jessica shares actionable steps, key mindset shifts, and how to tap into your existing skills for a smooth transition.

Key points discussed include:

- Create a structured exit plan: Jessica explains how a 6-month roadmap helped her transition from corporate life to blogging.

- Leverage your existing skills: Repurpose your corporate or professional experience—like marketing, PR, or photography—into freelance or blog-related gigs.

- Explore creative side gigs: Don’t rely solely on ad revenue; Jessica found early success with freelance food photography and consulting.

- Build support and accountability: Get your partner and inner circle on board before making the leap.

- Give yourself a test window: Jessica committed to trying blogging full-time for one year with clear financial goals.

- Implement systems early: Adding structure to her days post-corporate life helped Jessica stay productive and avoid burnout.

- Embrace mindset growth: Overcoming “newbie” thinking and believing in her value was crucial to her success.

- Stay open to learning: Whether it’s a new skill or business challenge, Jessica emphasizes the importance of ongoing education.

Connect with Jessica Vogl

Website | Instagram