We had the good fortune of connecting with Jackie Koch and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jackie, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
In the beginning, I put a lot of pressure on myself to be perfect and produce content daily. I also took on a lot of projects and aimed to please. I have since found more of a balance between work and family. I started saying “no thank you” a lot more and only taking on things I feel passionate about. My kids are getting older and I want to spend more time with them. It took awhile, but I finally found my groove!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I formerly worked in Human Resources for an Aerospace company before becoming a stay at home mom. The plan was to return to work after our 3rd (and last child!) started school. However, launching my blog and starting a social media presence became a gamechanger. What started as a hobby and creative outlet, soon became a lucrative and successful job that I really enjoyed. The flexibility and freedom of not having to do a traditional 9-5 with little kids has been a blessing. There’s been some challenges over the years and sometimes I will go through rough patches where I’m not feeling creative or suffering from mental burn-out. It’s during those times that I force myself to take breaks and I always feel better after unplugging for a bit.

I love being able to connect and share about products, places and activities that our family enjoys!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I share A LOT about Estes Park, CO on my page so it will come as no surprise to anyone that this is where I would take someone. We would grab cinnamon rolls from Cinnamon’s Bakery, go on a hike in Rocky Mountain National Park, shop in downtown, visit the Stanley Hotel and do a ghost tour, followed by dinner at Smokin’ Dave’s bbq!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My husband, Talon has always been my biggest supporter and is my best friend. I had entertained the idea of starting a blog after our daughter was born but had a lot of self-doubt and reservations. He encouraged me to give it a shot and has continued to help me build by brand all these years-despite being busy with his own career!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therockymtnmomma?igsh=MWlzdGZiZGZybTN1Mg==

Image Credits
Myself

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.