What does it look like when you’re talented, proven, and STILL out here dodging opportunities?

My friend Jada Durden pulled up for a real conversation about playing small. We talk about betting on yourself, imposter syndrome, anxiety, and why some of us will literally run away from paid work even when we’ve already earned the right to be in the room.

Jada breaks down her whole journey. State job to blogging. Blogging to bylines. Social media to marketing manager. Shreveport to Lake Charles to New Orleans. And even with all that, she still had to face the same thing we all face.

It’s not always a lack of skill. Sometimes it’s fear of being seen.

What we get into (key topics)

1. Playing small even when you’ve already proven you’re good
2. Imposter syndrome vs anxiety and vulnerability
3. “We have not because we ask not”
4. How Jada quit her state job during COVID and bet on herself
5. Building a career through relationships, networking, and support systems
6. Moving cities as an adult and starting over socially
7. The mindset shift from “Can I?” to “Why not me?”
8. Doing it for the plot. Doing it scared. Doing it anyway

It’s About DAMN Time segment

It’s about damn time we stop shrinking when the opportunity is literally looking for us.

D.A.M.N. Challenge (listener call-up)

This week, pick one thing you’ve been dodging and take the smallest real action:

1. Send the email.
2. Submit the pitch.
3. Follow up.
4. Ask for the rate.
5. Say yes before you talk yourself out of it.

Then tell yourself the truth: you’re not unqualified. You’re uncomfortable. There’s a difference.

Guest info

Jada Durden

Find her on all platforms: @LovingThisLifeJada

Food, travel, day trips, and life in New Orleans.

Connect with Me

🔗 Follow me on all platforms: @DaWholeDamnShow

🎧 Follow It’s About DAMN Time: @ItsAboutDamnTimePod

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