What happens when the girl behind the camera finally steps into the spotlight?

In this episode, Jessica sits down with Janine—photographer, event curator, and founder of Sip & Social—for a raw, layered conversation about growing up fast, building something beautiful, and finding purpose in community and creativity. This one is for every woman who’s ever carried more than her share and still showed up with her whole heart.

From small-town roots and a complicated family story to full-time entrepreneurship and co-owning a collaborative studio space, Jeanine shares her journey with depth, humor, and honesty. This episode peels back the highlight reel and gives us a powerful glimpse into the real woman behind the camera.

Here’s what you’ll hear:

02:02 — Jeanine’s childhood in Pequot Lakes and what it was like growing up with an addict parent

08:00 — How early creativity (and a disposable camera) shaped her path toward photography

11:02 — Moving to Duluth with $300, no car, and no job—and what happened next

14:00 — Navigating the impact of addiction, mental illness, and family dynamics

18:00 — The struggle (and strength) of being hyper-independent

20:00 — Losing her job during COVID and going full-time as a photographer

26:00 — The emotional toll of client feedback and the fear of being “canceled”

41:00 — What it felt like carrying the financial weight while her husband joined the Air Force

46:00 — Starting Sip & Social and Sol Studio—and why community matters more than perfection

59:00 — The tension between growth and sustainability as a multi-passionate entrepreneur

1:06:00 — Why raising your prices might be the self-care move you actually need

1:10:00 — Janine’s version of success (spoiler: it has nothing to do with followers)

✨ Memorable Quote

“You don’t have to have it all figured out to be building something that matters.”

🔗 Connect with Janine

Photography: https://www.instagram.com/byjanineleigh/ 

Studio Rentals: https://www.instagram.com/solstudios.duluth/ 

Events: https://www.instagram.com/sipnsocialduluth/ 

💛 Let’s Stay Connected

I really do mean it when I say: my DMs are always open.

✨ Got a story to share? A moment that hit home?

Slide in anytime.

Here’s where to find me and go deeper:

We’re building something real here. I’m so glad you’re part of it.

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