About me

I'm Janae, a curious & driven professional, mama of two adventurous boys and farmer's wife. A small town girl with a big personality who enjoys digging in to solve complex challenges. You'll almost always find me snapping photos, eating sweets, and wearing fingernail polish, big earrings, and a smile. I'm a champion of change and believe it's necessary for growth. I've experienced many twists and turns in this journey called life, and I look forward to sharing my takeaways with you in hopes that I can inspire others from my learnings. 

Cheers,  Janae

[creator]

In 2003, I graduated from Benson High School, excited to leave the small town and experience the big city. I enrolled in Brown College's Visual Communications Program and obtained my AAS. My first job out of college was at a help wanted newspaper as a graphics specialist. While it wasn't a well known publication, I felt so proud to be putting my degree to use. In 2006, I moved back to the small town I grew up in (Benson, MN). After moving back, I held several marketing and communications roles for profit, non-profit, start-up, public and privately held organizations in various industries. In 2011, I purchased my first DSLR camera and learned everything I could in my spare time. I haven't put my camera down since and try to capture as many memories as I can. In 2013, I obtained my BS in Business with an emphasis in marketing while working full-time and being pregnant with my first child. I love utilizing my creative side to develop engaging messages, beautiful photos, unique design pieces, and successful events. 

[people developer]

In 2017, I had the opportunity to mix my creative talents with the people component of a business and it's what I've found to be my sweet spot. I obtained my Organizational Development Certificate and Professional Train-the-Trainer Certificate Program at the University of Minnesota. And, in 2020, I became a Certified Innermetrix Analyst for DISC, Values and Attributes Index.  I feel fortunate to be able to bring my energy to work with individuals who come from different backgrounds & experiences, and join together to achieve common goals. For me, it's especially rewarding to partner with people to understand their strengths & motivators to help them be their best. I graduated from Saint Mary's University of Minnesota's Organizational Leadership MA Program in 2022 and find myself missing nights and weekends with my fabulous cohort.

[strategist]

Throughout my career, I have become intrigued with strategy. If you have a solid strategy and hold yourself and others accountable, you're setting your organization up for success. I thrive when I can go through the process of understanding priorities, identifying potential challenges and determining solutions to achieve results. Processes can always be improved when you view them from a different lens. I enjoy putting thought into enhancing processes, policies and programs to be as effective as possible. To aid in this, I became a Prosci Certified Change Practitioner in 2023. This program allowed me to better understand the people side of change. I bring enthusiasm to change management because I'm passionate about making the world a better place.

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[Purpose] 

To help people and organizations grow & achieve more.

[Passion] 

Creating meaningful experiences. 

[Core Values]

>> Respect: Be thoughtful & considerate of others and expect the same in return.

>> Curiosity: Challenge the status quo and always find ways to improve.

>> Responsibility: Accept accountability for one's self and the well-being of others.
 

[CliftonStrengths]
Maximizer, Individualization, Activator, Developer, Empathy
 

[Meyers-Briggs Type Indicator]
INTJ
 

[DISC Assessment]

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