Jessica Cole founded Lyric House Publishing a little more than two years ago as an aspiring songwriter who wanted to help other artists. Today that business dream has come to fruition as the independent music company she built helps develop, license and distribute music for more than 80 artists through a number of media platforms such as TV, radio and online.

Jessica Cole: Age 28
Lyric House Publishing
President

Jessica Cole founded Lyric House Publishing a little more than two years ago as an aspiring songwriter who wanted to help other artists. Today that business dream has come to fruition as the independent music company she built helps develop, license and distribute music for more than 80 artists through a number of media platforms such as TV, radio and online. In January, the company opened its second office in Los Angeles to accommodate its rapid growth. The ever-changing landscape of the music industry might prove tumultuous for some, but for Cole, it’s what she loves doing and, by all accounts, does extremely well.

Tell us why you love what you do:
Aside from the fact that I get to work with music every day and have such an awesome team, I find such joy in being able to help expose and facilitate an artist’s creative vision through the synch/placement process. It’s an amazing feeling when you get to hear one of your artists on a TV show or a commercial.

What have you learned about yourself while running your business?
I have learned that trusting my instincts is one of the most valuable tools you can have when you are your own boss.

How do you keep up with the changing business landscape?
When you’re in the music industry change is an everyday thing. What’s in today could be out tomorrow. I actually don’t think about how to move with the industry; instead my team and I always think about how we can be the change.

Where do you see your industry going in the future?
Music is constantly growing into an extension of self. I think in 10 to 15 years music will become even more of a personal experience for the consumer.

How do you measure success?
For me, success means that I am not only enjoying what I do but adding value and purpose for others as well. Creating meaning and making a difference in other peoples lives is the ultimate success for me.

What’s the biggest myth in business?
The saying “It’s all about who you know, not what you know.” I definitely think it’s a combination of both.

What was the toughest part about your first year in business?
Everything … literally. In a good way, though. Starting a business is not an easy task. The challenges and obstacles only made me stronger as an individual and stronger for my company. I learned so much about myself, people, the industry, etc. It was the most challenging yet most rewarding year I had ever experience.

Favorite business book:
“The Tipping Point” by Malcolm Gladwell.

Favorite part about running your own business:
Having creative freedom. As a business owner, you are in charge of the landscape of each day. I like to create new opportunities to challenge myself and learn new things. My team and I love to come up with new ideas and new ways of doing things.

Best advice you’ve received:
Since I was a kid, my dad always repeated to me that the most important thing in life is to show up. I fully understood the meaning of that when I started my business.

Best advice you have for aspiring entrepreneurs:
If you have a passion for an idea or venture, just go for it. As cliche as it may sound, life is too short to not go for your dreams. Now is as good of a time as any, and most importantly, never give up.