LaRinda E. Jackson

I attribute my success to a combination of determination, resilience, and an unwavering sense of purpose. I’ve always been someone who takes initiative, stays in motion, and looks for ways to create impact—whether that’s helping others, building something new, or pursuing a vision that others might consider ambitious.

That drive showed up early in my life. After being inspired by Tyler Perry’s work, I told my mother I could write a play too. A year later, I rented a 500‑seat theater for two nights, debuted my first production—God Answers Prayers—and sold out both shows. Since then, I’ve written, directed, and produced seven inspirational stage plays in Chicago, reaching thousands of people.

More recently, my husband and I relocated to the Dallas area and purchased our first new construction home in Lavon, Texas—an accomplishment that still feels surreal. I’m now focused on bringing my productions to Texas and transforming my scripts into film. My goal is to see my work on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, or network television so it can inspire people on an even larger scale.

Entrepreneurship is also a major part of who I am. Together with my husband, I co‑founded Sealed in Purpose, our notary business. I also run Just Because: Expressions of Love, my personalized greeting card line, and I’m an independent travel agent through my business Grateful Travels. Each venture reflects my commitment to purpose, creativity, and service.

At the core, my success comes from staying true to who I am, trusting the gifts God placed in me, and refusing to let obstacles limit what I know is possible. I lead with love, faith, and a belief that every step forward is an opportunity to elevate others along the way.

The best career advice I ever received came from my grandmother, Georgia Penn. She taught me that no matter what role you hold, you should strive to be the best at it. Whether you’re sweeping streets or sitting in a corner office, excellence is a choice and it’s a reflection of your character.

She also taught me the importance of treating everyone with dignity and respect. She would say, “Don’t just sit in your office. Know the cleaning staff, know the janitors, know everyone and let them know you.” Her message was simple: no one is beneath you, and you never know whose path you may cross again or who they may become.

Another lesson she instilled in me was, “Dress for how you want to be addressed.” She believed your presence should speak before you ever say a word. The way you carry yourself your professionalism, your confidence, your presentation sets the tone for how others engage with you.

Because of her, I’ve always made it a point to acknowledge people, build relationships at every level, and carry myself with humility and intention. From a young age, she taught me that whatever job you have, you should be the best they’ve ever seen. That mindset has guided my entire career and continues to shape how I show up in every environment.

My advice to young women entering the insurance industry—or any traditionally male‑dominated field—is to start by knowing your worth and standing firmly in it. Your skills, perspective, and voice have value, even in rooms where others may not immediately recognize it. The path may not always be linear, and you may encounter doubt or skepticism, but confidence paired with curiosity will take you far.

Ask questions. Seek clarity. Pursue mentorship. And don’t shy away from opportunities that stretch you. Growth often comes from stepping into responsibilities that feel slightly beyond your comfort zone.

Most importantly, remember that you belong in every space your talent, preparation, and character have brought you into. Lead with excellence, stay teachable, and trust that your contributions matter.

The primary challenge I’m navigating right now is working within a leadership structure that struggles with effective people management. I’m not someone who simply accepts the status quo. I’m naturally inclined toward optimizing workflows, identifying gaps, and asking questions to ensure processes make sense end‑to‑end.

Where others may focus solely on task execution, I focus on understanding the full process and the rationale behind it. That approach has allowed me to successfully streamline and enhance multiple procedures within CNA. I’m confident in the value I bring, and I operate with intention and clarity — not ego.

Recently, during a transition to a new business partners, I raised a concern about the differences in support provided to a colleague compared to my own experience in a similar transition. Instead of addressing the substance of my observation, the focus shifted to my tone and the fact that I asked the question. I clarified that the issue wasn’t tone — it was the inconsistency I highlighted.

Despite this, I remain focused and professional. I support five business partners, and four of them consistently express appreciation for my work through positive feedback, recognition, and Achievers nominations. I’m not allowing one challenging environment to overshadow the broader impact of my contributions or the confidence I have in my abilities and purpose.

One of the most important values in both my work and personal life is hope—not as an abstract idea, but as a commitment to helping people see and step into what’s possible for them. I believe in creating environments where individuals feel seen, supported, and empowered to rise.

Throughout my career, I’ve been intentional about investing in others and opening doors when I can. Early in my journey, while working at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers, I met a young woman Sheila Bruce, who worked in housekeeping. I saw potential in her that she didn’t yet see in herself. I encouraged her, hired her as my receptionist, and later promoted her into an administrative role. Five years later, she reached out to share that she had become the HR Director at the Sheraton and that our interaction had changed the trajectory of her career.

That experience reinforced what I value most: elevating others, creating opportunities, and leaving people better than I found them. I believe leadership is measured not just by what you achieve, but by how many people grow because you crossed their path. And I’m committed to carrying that forward in every space I enter.