This part of “Interview with High Profile Entrepreneur” is a very special person who is building a better future for the youth. Her name is Jennifer Goodrich and she runs Pivot.
Please introduce yourself broadly to our audience?
My name is Jennifer Goodrich. I am the President and CEO of Pivot, A Turning Point for Youth.
With over 30 years of professional experience, Jennifer has served in multiple capacities in the mental health and substance abuse field. She has a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Central State University and a Master of Education in Community Counseling from the University of Central Oklahoma. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor, an approved supervisor for both licensures. She has served as the President and CEO of Pivot, A Turning Point for Youth since May of 2019. As a part of Pivot since 1999 she has had the opportunity to address the needs of youth who experience layers of trauma, involvement in child welfare and juvenile justice, and youth experiencing homelessness, alongside a talented and dedicated staff who put the needs of clients first.
Jennifer is led by her faith and desire to be of service to others. “For me leadership is not a job title, it is an action and example. You don’t achieve it. You live it.”
Based on your valuable experience, what are the key elements of running a successful business?
Learning all you can and keep your vision and mission at the heart of all your decisions. Be true to your values, for me they are integrity, transparency, and humility. Be proactive, don’t just work on the current problem at hand, anticipate and be at the forefront of what is coming. Be willing to collaborate, we truly are stronger together, and we can achieve greater success relying on one another’s gifts, strengths, and talents, than believing we are the only answer. Be flexible, leave room for creativity, and surround yourself with people who have different gifts than you.
How to overcome failure based on your experience?
Number one, own whatever your part is. Be honest with yourself about it and transparent with others. Know a lot of the cliches are true failure isn’t the opposite of success, it is part of it, failure can be a greater teacher than success, and never forget this too shall pass. Lean in and embrace the experience.
What’s your vision for your company in the future?
For Pivot to stand at the forefront of service, offer unwavering support, and passionately champion the well-being of youth in our community.
What would be your suggestion for the people who are aspiring to become like you in the future?
Be the best you can be. Put in the work, lead by example, do all you can to connect with others, and always celebrate others more than you celebrate yourself.
