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After nearly two decades thriving in the structured world of medical device sales, felt a deeper calling. Despite a successful career, an internal voice kept asking, "Am I really doing what I should be doing?"

A cancer diagnosis in 2019 became the turning point. It was then Jason realized he wasn’t just meant to succeed within a system — he was meant to create something transformative. Today, Jason is the founder of , a business focused on helping individuals and businesses build confidence, credibility, and unforgettable personal stories.

“Attention is the new currency. If you can't figure out a way to break out of the sea of sameness, it can be extremely challenging." 
 

Build Your Own Brand specializes in coaching people to interview differently, tell their stories memorably, and stand out from the crowd — something Jason noticed was desperately needed after years of hiring and interviewing candidates himself. But entrepreneurship hasn't been without its challenges. Leaving a secure corporate job meant stepping into the unknown.
 
"When you start something, no one knows you exist. You have to persevere, be gritty, be tenacious — because no one's coming with the paycheck every other Friday."

This resilience and drive to evolve made Jason the notable entrepreneur he is today, and this story inspired those around him. is Jason’s most recent venture, an autobiography detailing the setbacks he has faced and how he overcame those challenges to turn them into successes. 

“It's gritty. It's inspirational. I think really the book is written for underdogs. Those who are told no but then overcoming that and figuring out a way to find a yes.”

A through line Jason has seen in life from his studies to now in his career is ��������. During his undergraduate days Jason made it a point to be involved and begin building his network. From participating in Greek life to leading as an ambassador to supporting the student community as a resident advisor, he was an active member on campus and the connections made here propelled him to the next stage. Jason remains a proud member of the Kent State community, serving on the board and engaging in presentations with the same people he befriended as a student. 

“There's a lot about Kent State and what the university offered me. I love this university. So anything I can do to help out, I'm always all ears. If I can do it, I do it.”

Kenton Library Talk on Professional Development with Jason Zygadlo and fellow Kent State alum, Megan Leasher.

Now, Jason’s short- and long-term goals are all about growing awareness, expanding services, and eventually forming partnerships with universities to empower even more individuals to tell their unique stories.

For aspiring entrepreneurs, Jason offers this powerful advice:
“Challenge yourself to be comfortable being uncomfortable — and just start. If you wait for perfect, you’ll never begin.”