On July 31, 2014, I received the official paperwork for The J Agency Communications Group. I had been doing public relations work for two years at that point, with ZERO experience in what it really meant to start or run a business.
All I knew was how to do the work. I could pitch a story. I could build relationships. I could get results. But the business part? The structure, systems, strategy? That was a whole other beast I had to learn on the fly.
Looking back, I’m so deeply grateful for the journey—even the hard lessons that stretched me, challenged me, and at times made me question if I was really cut out for this. Spoiler alert: I am.
So as I sit and reflect on the last 11 years—how it started vs. how it’s going—I must give God all the glory and praise. Because let’s be honest: I had no idea what the heck I was doing in those early days. But He knew. He ordered my steps even when I didn’t know where I was going.
Rcky Codio & Jocelyn Noelle
Through the highs and lows, the late nights and breakthroughs, here are five lessons that still anchor me today:
1. Always Trust Your Gut
Your intuition is a gift. There have been so many moments where I knew something wasn’t right, but I went along with it anyway whether it was a client, a partnership, or a business decision. Every time I ignored my gut, I paid for it. Every time I listened, I leveled up.
2. When You Make a Mistake, Own It, Fix It (If You Can), and Keep Moving
We’re human. We mess up. It happens. But what sets leaders apart is the ability to take accountability. Some of the most important relationships in my career were saved because I humbled myself, apologized, and made it right. Growth doesn’t happen without grace.
3. Have the Business of Your Business in Order
Listen, doing the work is not enough. You need contracts. Processes. Taxes filed. Boundaries in place. Just because you’re passionate doesn’t mean you should be operating out of chaos. Structure protects your purpose.
4. If You Ever Stop Loving Your Business, Pray Over It
Entrepreneurship isn’t glamorous all the time. Sometimes, it feels like a grind. But I’ve learned that when I start falling out of love with what I do, it’s time to pause not quit. I take it to God. I let Him renew my vision, realign my purpose, and reignite my passion.
5. That Vision Wasn’t Given to You Just to Sit in Your Notes App
You weren’t given that calling to just daydream about it. You weren’t created to keep your brilliance locked up in your phone, your mind, or your fear. You were made to show up, speak up, and serve in the exact way God designed you to. You are built for this.
So here’s to 11 years of lessons, faith, purpose, and power.
To every client, collaborator, cheerleader, and even the challenges—thank you.
I’m walking into year 12 with more clarity, more courage, and more commitment than ever before.
