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

Hi Jessie, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Having my own business has been a long-held dream since childhood. I’ve always had a deep passion for the arts. Still, due to family expectations and the environment I grew up in, I was taught that academic success should be the top priority and that anything else was a distraction or a waste of time. This limited my ability to fully explore my interests.
As I got older, I finally had the opportunity to pursue the things I truly enjoy in my free time, especially artistic activities like painting, recording audiobooks, experimenting with musical instruments, and practicing calligraphy. I’ve also been consistently learning and refining my skills because I aspire to turn my passions into a business, while still finding personal enjoyment in them.
However, I’m fully aware that starting a business is no simple task. There will be many obstacles and opposition, especially when it comes to the need for investment. It requires careful planning—balancing costs and returns, evaluating short-term versus long-term investments, and considering how much time, energy, and pressure you can handle. Achieving that balance is tough, which is why having the support of family becomes incredibly important.
Additionally, seeking professional advice and getting the right training before starting a business is essential. Gaining insights from experts in the field can help avoid costly mistakes and provide guidance in navigating the complexities of running a business. Learning from other successful business models is also invaluable, as it offers practical examples of what works and what doesn’t, allowing for more informed decision-making. Combining this knowledge with my passions and skills gives me a clearer path toward building a sustainable and successful venture.
Given the inherent challenges of working in the arts, perseverance is essential. By managing my resources within my means and maintaining steady progress, I believe that, with determination, the business will eventually thrive.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My career has been a journey of a passion for continuous learning, resilience, and staying true to myself without following the crowd. What sets me apart from others is my deep appreciation for cultural diversity and my commitment to blending art with meaningful storytelling. From a young age, I was drawn to artistic expression, and although my early life was more focused on academics, I always nurtured a love for different forms of art. This foundation laid the groundwork for the work I do today, particularly in my career as an audiobook narrator, voice actor, director of audiobook productions, book translator, and author where my ability to bring stories to life in a way that connects deeply with listeners and readers sets me apart. I’m particularly proud of the projects where I’ve been able to combine storytelling with my love for voice work, translation, and writing, giving characters and narratives a voice and language that resonate with diverse audiences.
Getting to where I am today has not been easy. In the beginning, I faced a lot of uncertainty—both from within and from others who doubted whether this path was the right one for me. One of the most significant challenges was building confidence in my voice, translation, and writing abilities while honing my craft and staying true to my creative vision as well as quality. Audiobook production, translation, and writing are all demanding fields, requiring not only technical skills but also a deep understanding of storytelling, emotion, and cultural nuances. I had to learn how to manage every aspect of the process, from vocal performance to directing and translating books in a way that stays true to the original, all while ensuring that each project reflects the true meaning and heart of the story.
The lessons I’ve learned along the way are many, but a few stand out: persistence is key, adaptability is crucial, and collaboration is essential. No matter how strong your vision is, working with the right people—whether they are listeners, collaborators, or your readers—can elevate that vision into something even greater. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially in a field where you constantly face new challenges. But I’ve found that staying dedicated to your unique voice—whether it’s through narration, direction, translation, or writing—and embracing each opportunity to grow and learn are essential to overcoming those obstacles. Along the way, I’ve also learned to balance the artistic side of my work with the business aspect, ensuring that I stay true to my creative vision while adapting to industry demands.
What I want the world to know about my journey and brand is that it’s built on a foundation of authenticity, creativity, and a deep love for the art of voice storytelling, writing, and translation. My work is about more than just reading aloud or converting texts from one language to another—it’s about crafting an immersive experience for listeners and readers alike.
Ultimately, my goal is to continue creating, writing, and translating audiobooks and books that transport people into different worlds and perspectives. I want my story and my brand to inspire others to pursue their passions, regardless of how unconventional the path might be. There’s power in finding your voice and sharing it with the world, and that’s what I aim to do every day through my work.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Logan, Utah is my favorite place to live, and I’ve called it home for over twenty years. It’s where I pursued my higher education, met my husband, got married, and started a family. The town holds a special place in my heart, and I’ve experienced some of the most significant milestones in my life here. With its unique blend of natural beauty, a warm sense of community, and an enriching cultural atmosphere, Logan has shaped my journey in profound ways, making it the perfect place to show my best friend the best time ever!
Logan is known for its stunning outdoor scenery, charming small-town atmosphere, and strong sense of community, so I’d make sure the trip blends adventure with relaxation.
Day 1: Arrival & Introduction to Logan
• Breakfast: Start the day with breakfast at Herm’s Inn, a local favorite offering delicious comfort food with a twist. Their biscuits and gravy are a must-try!
• Morning: After breakfast, we’d take a stroll around Utah State University’s beautiful campus. The university is the heart of Logan, and its surrounding area offers picturesque views of the mountains.
• Afternoon: We’d visit the American West Heritage Center, where my friend could get a taste of the area’s history and experience a pioneer or mountain man encampment. It’s a great introduction to the cultural roots of Cache Valley.
• Dinner: For dinner, we’d go to Le Nonne, a cozy Italian restaurant with an upscale yet homey atmosphere. Their pasta dishes are made from scratch and the outdoor seating gives us the perfect view of the valley.
Day 2: Outdoor Adventure – Logan Canyon
• Morning: We’d kick off our first adventure day with a hike up Wind Caves Trail in Logan Canyon. The trail offers breathtaking views of the canyon and a unique cave formation at the top.
• Lunch: After working up an appetite, we’d grab lunch at Elements Restaurant. Situated right next to the Logan River, the food here is fresh and creative—perfect for refueling.
• Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at Tony Grove Lake, a scenic alpine lake just a short drive-up Logan Canyon. We’d rent paddleboards or just relax by the water with a picnic.
• Evening: For a laid-back evening, we’d stop by The Beehive Grill for casual dining and house-made root beer. The pub atmosphere is perfect for relaxing after a day outdoors.
Day 3: Local Arts and Culture
• Morning: I’d start the day with breakfast at Bluebird Café, a beloved local café known for its delicious breakfast options and cozy atmosphere. Their cinnamon rolls and fresh coffee are perfect to kickstart the morning.
• Late Morning: We’d then spend the morning exploring downtown Logan, visiting The Cache Valley Center for the Arts and Logan Tabernacle. Both venues showcase local talent and rich history. If we’re lucky, we might catch a performance or exhibit.
• Lunch: We’d grab lunch at The Factory Pizzeria, known for its nostalgic vibes and great pizza.
• Afternoon: After lunch, we’d head to Zootah at Willow Park, a small but charming zoo that houses local and exotic animals. It’s great for a relaxing afternoon and a chance to see wildlife up close.
• Dinner: For dinner, we’d enjoy a flavorful and aromatic experience at Tandoori Oven, a popular spot for delicious Indian cuisine, which is my favorite restaurant for more than 15 years. The vibrant spices and hearty dishes would make for an unforgettable meal.
Day 4: Day Trip to Bear Lake
• Morning: Today, we’d take a scenic drive to Bear Lake, known as the “Caribbean of the Rockies” for its stunning turquoise waters.
• Day: We’d spend the whole day at Bear Lake, swimming, renting jet skis, or simply relaxing on the beach. Of course, we’d make sure to stop for a famous Bear Lake raspberry shake at one of the local stands. You can’t miss the shake!
• Evening: After a fun day at the lake, we’d head back to Logan and for a delicious and festive dinner, we’d dine at Cafe Sabor, known for its flavorful Mexican cuisine, with fresh ingredients and a vibrant atmosphere to cap off a great day.
Day 5: Explore Cache Valley
• Morning: Breakfast at Angie’s Restaurant, a local diner known for its hearty portions and friendly service.
• Late Morning: I’d take my friend on a tour of Gossner Foods to sample some of Cache Valley’s finest cheese and milk products. Logan is known for its dairies, and Gossner’s is one of the best!
• Afternoon: We’d visit First Dam for a leisurely walk or paddleboat ride. It’s a peaceful spot right at the mouth of Logan Canyon.
• Dinner: Dinner at Sabores, a hidden gem serving authentic Latin food, would be perfect for ending the day on a flavorful note.
Day 6: Logan’s Hidden Gems
• Morning: We’d kick off the morning with brunch at Juniper Takeout, known for their local fare and fresh ingredients.
• Afternoon: We’d spend the afternoon exploring Cache Valley Gardeners’ Market (if it’s a weekend), where local artisans sell crafts, produce, and more. It’s a great place to soak in the community atmosphere and pick up some local goodies.
• Dinner: For a more upscale experience, we’d dine at The Bluebird Restaurant, a Logan institution that’s been around for over 100 years. The food is classic, and the old-school soda fountain is a highlight.
Day 7: Scenic Drive and Departure
• Morning: Before leaving, we’d take a scenic drive-up Logan Canyon Scenic Byway, stopping at viewpoints to soak in the last of Cache Valley’s beauty.
• Lunch: Our final meal would be at Jack’s Wood Fired Oven, a beloved spot for wood-fired pizzas and sandwiches.
Logan, Utah may be a small town, but it has truly earned its place as one of the best living towns in the U.S. which offers a perfect balance of outdoor adventures, welcoming community, beautiful landscapes, culinary gems, and a rich cultural scene, It’s a place where you can find both relaxation and excitement, and I’d make sure my friend experienced the very best of it!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My life experiences and the success I have today wouldn’t be possible without a very important person—my dear aunt, Lynn Tang. She is an incredibly successful and influential woman. During one of the most difficult phases of my life, when I needed support the most, I stayed with her. Every day, I witnessed how she managed her business, raised her child, and built her career from the ground up. When I encountered challenges, she taught me how to confront them with courage. Whenever I made mistakes out of inexperience, she was always there to help me find solutions. Over the past 25 years, every single achievement of hers has been a source of inspiration for me. I aspire to be as bold and capable as she is.
In addition to my aunt, my husband also deserves immense credit. He has provided me with unwavering physical and emotional support, always standing by my side when I needed him most. My daughter, too, deserves recognition. She is incredibly independent and takes care of her own responsibilities without needing much from me. At times, she even excels beyond my expectations, teaching me how to be a better mother in the process.
I must also express my gratitude to my parents. Though they live far away from me, they remain my pillars of strength and motivation. I am profoundly thankful to my grandparents, who raised me and gave me the most wonderful childhood. I’m also grateful for my American grandparents, who have provided me with another warm and loving home in a foreign land. Lastly, I want to acknowledge my former boss, who recognized my abilities and instilled in me a deep sense of confidence. His support has been a vital part of my journey toward success.
Ultimately, I am grateful to everyone who has played a role in helping me grow along the way.

Linkedin: jessie0587@hotmail.com

Facebook: jessie0587

Other: https://www.amazon.com/Teen-Gifting-Handbook-Wishlist-Thoughtful/dp/B0CTKMQ1KY

Image Credits
Kyle Lam, Jessie Zhu, Aimee Lam

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