Today we’d like to introduce you to Jamee Kyson.
Jamee, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
My story started out with a long stint in academia. After completing my B.S. in biology from the University of Michigan (U of M), I worked in a research lab there and helped discover the gene that, when mutated, leads to a rare form of mental retardation found in the Cayman Islands. This research resulted in a first-author Nature Genetics publication and had me hooked on scientific discovery. I followed that trail all of the way across the country to the University of California, Los Angeles, where I would conduct research for eleven more years, focusing on neurodevelopmental disorders, such as speech and language disorders and autism. I obtained my Ph.D. in neuroscience from UCLA in 2013, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship, and then a position leading a group of autism researchers under the mentorship of Dr. Daniel Geschwind. During that time, I discovered the simple, yet elegant, power of plants to create massive healing, both psychologically and physically. In light of the pitfalls of pharmaceuticals – off target effects, efficacy, environmental damage- I decided to redirect my focus to advocating for plant-based medicines. With a huge body of peer-reviewed research on the benefits of essential oils, I realized that I was in a unique position to be a bridge between the scientific community and the general public, helping educate them on the biology and use of essential oils by breaking down highly specialized and jargon-filled publications into digestible and more understandable concepts. I partnered with the largest essential oil company in the world, doTERRA, and started giving talks around the country and building my own business, educating on and distributing essential oils.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Leaving a very prestigious and comfortable position at UCLA to build my own business from scratch was scary, to say the least, but I knew in my bones that it was the right move for me. There were definitely times when I felt vulnerable and uncertain about the road ahead. However, the freedom of being an entrepreneur was so liberating, and I was intoxicated by the fact that my success was in direct correlation to my passion and drive for what I was doing. I love being the ambassador of my own dreams and creating and being a part of a community of like-minded people who advocate for natural and sustainable solutions to healthcare. I would be remiss if I did not also mention that the love and support of my husband, James Kyson, greatly buffered the hard edges of this transition.
Please tell us about doTERRA.
I am a wellness advocate and Silver team leader for doTERRA. I specialize in the neuroscience of essential oils and translating scientific research into information that is digestible to the general public. I have given talks all around the country, from corporations to universities, on the biological benefits of essential oils. I also teach local classes, conduct one on one health coaching, and directly sell doTERRA essential oils and products. More recently, I spend the majority of my time mentoring others who are also building a business with doTERRA. This includes idea-generating, strategizing, and self-development coaching. As a company, I am most proud of the breadth of philanthropic work that doTERRA engages in. DoTERRA has helped communities worldwide by building schools, water systems, healthcare facilities, and other community-critical infrastructures. DoTERRA has also partnered with Rapha House, Operation Underground Railroad, and 3 Strands Global to help eradicate child trafficking internationally. What sets doTERRA apart is their combination of pharmaceutical-grade oils, their incredible corporate culture, and their giant giving heart.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
My favorite memory from childhood is building forts with my three siblings -Deva, Aaron, and Chelsea-in the woods of rural Michigan.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mydoterra.com/jamesandjamee/
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jameemaekyson/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jameessentials/
Image Credit:
Also featured in the photos: Jeannine Saffigna-Tenczar, Touba Selph, Ellie Hedley, James Kyson, Wendy and Aaron Frazier, Jeanese Humbert and Julie Preas
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
