Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Dalby.
Hi Jessica, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in psychology in December 2019. My husband Robert Dalby Jr. and I are retired from the United States Army. When the pandemic hit, there was so much divisiveness and disruption going on in society. What initially started out as an idea and a vision on a clean sheet of paper in April 2020 has transformed into a full-blown company. A podcast surrounding hip-hop music paired with the culture, our business Diggie The Progression Of Hip-Hop LLC in August 2020, and our clothing brand.
In April 2020, we launched the podcast on YouTube and then on all music audio podcast platforms that fall. In 2021, we established P.U.S.H. Entertainment as a full-service entertainment and management company working under the parent company Diggie The Progression Of Hip-Hop LLC. Less than 24 months in business, we have peaked at #9 on the Apple Podcasts chart in the United States. Our platform is in the top 10% globally and we have surpassed 1.4 million views on our YouTube channel.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I believe without struggles; you cannot reach higher levels in life and business. Taking a leap of faith as an entrepreneur is hard. It is scarier when you go all in financially. However, I have done everything since day one with passion and purpose. As an avid researcher, I have chosen to always continue to educate myself. Seeking out a SCORE mentor and learning all the correct ways to establish a business. Listening to others but doing the research myself regarding our core target market and how do we stand apart. I believe the best rewards are from obstacles and challenges.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I established a Duns & Bradstreet business profile. My husband/business partner is the host and the content creator; however, I always say I do a little of a lot because that is the truth. I handle the day-to-day operations, the financial books, booking, marketing, and formulating new professional relationships.
I believe serving in the military has strengthened me to take on multiple roles and has propelled our businesses/brands to higher levels. The music/entertainment industry, in my opinion, is 90% business and 10% talent. Therefore, understanding the ins/outs and all-around business side is helpful in continuing to propel our platform to higher levels. Ensuring we use our platform and voice and keep social injustice awareness is also an important part of our brand and business.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I believe I tend to get the same shocking reaction when I tell people prior to Covid I was approached to model. I took a step back and went down another path but found myself back doing photo shoots last year and building my portfolio. In addition, to the fact that I have a degree in psychology and not business. Lastly, I am just unveiling to people that I am also in the process of writing a book.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.diggiea2.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diggiea2/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialDiggieTheProgressionOfHipHopLLC
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/DiggieA2
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DiggieA2TheProgressionofHipHop
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/jessicadalby/
