Balancing Acts: Amber Jackson of Pvolve On How To Thrive As A Working Mother
An Interview With Vanessa Ogle
Positive Attitude and No Ego: I believe in rolling up my sleeves and doing whatever it takes to get the job done, whether it’s scrubbing floors or handling customer concerns. That mindset creates a culture of teamwork and respect. It’s also a value I’m teaching my son — to approach every task with passion, no matter how big or small.
In this fast-paced world, mothers who juggle work and parenting responsibilities face unique challenges and experiences. Their stories of resilience, strength, and adaptability are not just inspiring but also enlightening. We aim to delve into the lives of working mothers to understand how they manage their professional ambitions while raising their children either single-handedly or with a partner. As part of this series, we had the pleasure of interviewing Amber Jackson.
Amber Jackson, Owner of Pvolve Atlanta, is a dedicated entrepreneur and single mother who discovered her true passion as a Pvolve franchisee, opening her first studio in 2024. With a diverse career spanning multiple industries, Amber has overcome personal and professional challenges with resilience and adaptability. Her dedication to balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship drives her to build a career that reflects her passion for empowering others to reach their full potential.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series. Before we dive into our discussion about celebrating working mothers, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you share with us the backstory about what brought you to your specific career path?
I’ve had a diverse career path, with roles spanning from theatrical marketing and publicity at Lionsgate to strategy and operations at Mid-South Petroleum. But it wasn’t until the passing of my husband in 2018 that I reevaluated everything. I needed a fresh start, both personally and professionally, to ensure I could be present for my then 2-year-old son. That led me to leave corporate America and become my own boss through franchising. My first venture was a fast-casual poke franchise, which I had to shut down just a month after opening due to the pandemic. Despite that setback, I pushed forward, getting the business to profitability by 2021. However, I soon realized that the restaurant industry wasn’t where I was meant to be, so I sold the business. In early 2023, a friend introduced me to Pvolve, and I immediately knew this innovative fitness concept was the right fit for me. Opening my first Pvolve franchise in Atlanta in 2024 feels like the final step on my entrepreneurial journey — a path that combines my past experiences with my passion for fitness and helping others achieve their best selves.
Can you share a moment or story that happened to you where you were inspired or given hope that there could be successful parenting while building and growing a meaningful career?
There was a moment during the height of the pandemic when I was working nonstop, and my son was often with me at the business. He was curious about what I was doing, from customer service to finances. I realized he was absorbing so much — not just the tasks, but the values of hard work and determination. I grew up in a family of entrepreneurs, and seeing those lessons take root in him gave me hope that I could balance being a mother and a business owner. It also made me proud to know that, even in the chaos, I was setting an example for him. It reminded me that even in the trenches, there’s value in showing our kids the effort behind the success.
Which three-character traits do you think were most instrumental to that success? Can you please share a story or example for each?
Organization: Organization is my superpower. As a single parent juggling a business, I have to structure every minute of my day. I plan everything in advance, from work tasks to time with my son, to ensure nothing falls through the cracks. For example, before picking him up from school, I know exactly what I need to accomplish at work so I can be fully present with him in the evening.
Ability to Pivot: Flexibility is essential. No matter how much I plan, something always comes up. One day, I had my daily schedule mapped out per usual, but the HVAC broke down. I had to shift gears, troubleshoot, and still keep everything on track. Being able to adapt quickly has been critical to managing both my business and my life as a mom.
Positive Attitude and No Ego: I believe in rolling up my sleeves and doing whatever it takes to get the job done, whether it’s scrubbing floors or handling customer concerns. That mindset creates a culture of teamwork and respect. It’s also a value I’m teaching my son — to approach every task with passion, no matter how big or small.
Can you share a personal story that highlights the balancing act of being a working mother?
Every day feels like a balancing act. My days are planned down to the minute because they have to be. I wake up, get my son ready for school, make breakfast, and then head to the studio after dropping him off. I tackle my top priorities during the day, knowing that after school, I need to switch gears to focus on his activities, homework, and dinner. Once he’s in bed, I dive back into work — payroll, scheduling, and analytics. I rely on a 12-month paper calendar to map out everything visually because it’s easier to see the big picture. It’s a constant balancing act, but it allows me to be present for both my son and my business.
What has been your most effective strategy for balancing work commitments with your responsibilities as a parent?
Organization and logistical planning. I always have my calendar with me because it helps me manage the mental load of running a business and being a parent. Knowing exactly what’s on my schedule keeps me on track and ensures nothing gets overlooked.
Can you share a significant challenge you faced as a working mother and how you overcame it?
One of my biggest challenges has been managing time and learning to say no. As a people-pleaser, I used to think I had to do everything, and when I couldn’t, I saw it as a failure. Over time, I’ve learned to prioritize and recognize that it’s okay to say, “Not right now.” It’s about focusing on what matters most and giving myself grace.
Some employers are hesitant to hire moms and especially single mothers. Will you tell us a story about your productivity and accomplishments and how being a mom actually assisted you at work?
Moms know how to get things done. We don’t get to call in sick or take the day off when things are tough. That mindset translates directly to the workplace. For me, being a mom has made me more efficient and resourceful. I actually prefer hiring moms because they’ve mastered multitasking and prioritizing under pressure.
When I was considering joining Pvolve as a franchisee, I was a single parent facing challenges that many could view as a roadblock. However, the team at Pvolve never saw my situation as a deterrent. When I went to Chicago to meet with them before signing my agreement, I was amazed by how genuinely inspired they were by my story and my motivations. They seemed truly touched by my ‘why’ — the reason I wanted to become a part of the Pvolve family. Their support and openness towards my journey gave me confidence that this was the right opportunity for me.
To any employers hesitant to hire single mothers, I would say this: don’t let preconceived notions hold you back from seeing the incredible value that moms bring to the workplace. The resilience, efficiency, and multitasking abilities that come with being a mom are unparalleled. Pvolve recognized that and embraced my unique situation, which has only fueled my drive to succeed.
How do you prioritize self-care amidst your busy schedule?
Self-care sometimes takes a backseat in my life, but I’ve learned it’s necessary. Back in 2020, I realized the pace I was working at wasn’t sustainable. Now, I make an effort to schedule time for myself, whether it’s a massage or a manicure, while my son is at school. It’s not every week, but even small moments once a month help me recharge. I know I can’t pour from an empty cup, so I do my best to keep it from running completely dry.
How do you find time and energy for personal development?
I’m a big fan of podcasts and audiobooks because they fit into my busy schedule. I listen to them in the car or while multitasking. At night, I try to wind down with some old-fashioned reading, though I’m often so tired I can only manage a few pages. Personal development has become a daily habit, even in small doses.
Based on your experience, can you please share “5 Things You Need to Thrive as a Working Mother?” Please share a story with each one.
Organization: Structure your time and stay on top of everything.
Ability to Pivot: Be ready to adapt to unexpected changes.
A Strong Team: Surround yourself with people whose skills complement yours.
Patience: Learn to give yourself grace and understand that perfection isn’t realistic.
Support Systems: Build a network of people — friends, coaches, or other moms — who can help when you need it.
What support systems or resources have been crucial in helping you manage both parenting and your career?
Having a business coach has been invaluable for me. They’ve been a sounding board and offered perspectives I wouldn’t have considered on my own. I’ve also relied on other moms in my community for support, whether it’s carpool help or a quick favor. Even though my family lives out of state, I’ve learned to create my own “village” to lean on.
What’s also been instrumental in balancing my career and family life is the support I receive from Pvolve as a franchisee. They’ve been extremely proactive in helping me open and run my business. I’ve been so impressed with the resources they’ve invested in upfront, from tools like Pvolve Academy and an extensive online library with best practices to their regular monthly meetings covering sales, marketing, and ongoing training for both managers and instructors. These resources have been essential in setting me up for success, allowing me to focus on growing my business without having to reinvent the wheel — especially as a mom with a young child. Pvolve’s commitment to their franchisees truly stands out, and it’s made a world of difference in managing both my career and family life.
What advice would you give to single mothers striving to achieve success in their careers while raising children?
You don’t have to have everything figured out. Focus on your children — they’re only young once — and give yourself grace. The skills you develop as a mom, like resilience and problem-solving, will translate into your career. Success takes time, so prioritize what matters most.
I’ve realized that what matters most is different for everyone. What drives and fulfills one person may not be the same for another. For a long time, I envied those who seemed to have it all figured out. I never felt like I had found my true calling — until I found Pvolve. Pvolve checked all the boxes for me. I’ve always been driven and enjoyed the sense of accomplishment that comes with work, but I also wanted a career that allowed me to be present for my son. What I was looking for was an opportunity that let me be my own boss while still being able to involve him in what I was doing. Pvolve gave me that chance.
At the end of the day, it’s about recognizing what truly checks the boxes in your life. It’s a daily juggling act, and some days are tough, but it’s incredibly rewarding. I’m doing something that fulfills me, helps others, and allows me to be there for my son in a way I never thought possible.
If you could start a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. :-)
I’d start a movement focused on grace and kindness. Life is challenging, and everyone is going through something. Showing goodwill and understanding can create a ripple effect of positivity. It’s a value I’ve taught my son, and seeing him extend kindness to others makes me incredibly proud.
How can our readers further follow you online?
https://app.pvolve.com/locations/westside-provisions
Thank you for the time you spent sharing these fantastic insights. We wish you only continued success in your great work!
About The Interviewer: Vanessa Ogle is a mom, entrepreneur, inventor, writer, and singer/songwriter. Vanessa’s talent in building world-class leadership teams focused on diversity, a culture of service, and innovation through inclusion allowed her to be one of the most acclaimed Latina CEO’s in the last 30 years. She collaborated with the world’s leading technology and content companies such as Netflix, Amazon, HBO, and Broadcom to bring innovative solutions to travelers and hotels around the world. Vanessa is the lead inventor on 120+ U.S. Patents. Accolades include: FAST 100, Entrepreneur 360 Best Companies, Inc. 500 and then another six times on the Inc. 5000. Vanessa was personally honored with Inc. 100 Female Founder’s Award, Ernst and Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and Enterprising Women of the Year among others. Vanessa now spends her time sharing stories to inspire and give hope through articles, speaking engagements and music. In her spare time she writes and plays music in the Amazon best selling new band HigherHill, teaches surfing clinics, trains dogs, and cheers on her children.
Please connect with Vanessa here on linkedin and subscribe to her newsletter Unplugged as well as follow her on Substack, Instagram, Facebook, and X and of course on her website VanessaOgle.
