S2 Ep 37 180K Followers Later: The Truth About Being an OG Instagram Creator with Jera Bean 🎤💃

Pollen: For Creative Entrepreneurs with Diana Davis

Some episodes feel like a warm, soul-honest hug—and this one with Jera is exactly that.

Jera is a social media strategist, content creator, and real-deal creative who's walked the wild path from fitness influencer to brand-builder and business owner. In this convo, we talk about what it really means to build a personal brand while staying true to yourself—especially in a space that can reward performative over personal. She opens up about separating your self from your business, how social trends shape our creativity, and the importance of setting boundaries in a career that lives on your phone.

We also go deep on her transition into this next season—becoming a mother, shifting her pace, and dreaming up a future that includes more art, more slowness, and more joy. There's plenty in here about growth, grit, and the identity shifts that come with doing the thing differently.

Whether you're craving a biz pivot, feel disconnected from your audience, or you're just ready to make your online presence feel more like you, this one's a must-listen.

Key Episode Takeaways

✅ Vulnerability in business isn't weakness—it's your superpower. ✅ It's okay to outgrow the version of yourself your audience first met. ✅ Authenticity > algorithms. Every. Single. Time. ✅ Boundaries are sacred—especially when your business is also your face. ✅ You get to change your mind and start fresh. ✅ Not all growth is visible—and not all success is measured in likes. ✅ Art, presence, and play are valid forms of productivity. ✅ The journey is allowed to evolve as you do.

Ways to Plug In

⛺️ Camp Clarity kicks off September 18th — we strip away the noise, get you clear on your story, your offers, your marketing, and your money — so you can finally run a thriving business that feels as creative and fun as the work you do. Apply here.

🛝 Recess is the creative community you've been looking for. Try it for 3 months for $55/month. You can sit with us.

☎️ Follow me on Instagram @dianadaviscreative for more behind-the-scenes