From Gold Stars to Growth Mindset: Discovering Freedom in Entrepreneurship

Join host Aaron Burnett as he sits down with Jennifer O’Neal, co-owner of Live Oak Audiovisual, to explore the powerful shift from perfectionism to growth mindset and how that shift transformed her leadership, business, and life. In this episode of Moments That Matter, Jennifer shares how early lessons in customer service, humility, and generosity shaped her entrepreneurial journey, and how EO Accelerator helped her rebuild, reframe, and ultimately scale smarter through uncertainty.From learning to separate identity from mistakes, to leading with empathy, to surviving COVID through creativity and community, this conversation offers an honest look at what it really takes to grow as a founder. Jennifer reflects on the value of vulnerability, the importance of asking for help, and the freedom that comes from designing a business that supports both purpose and personal life.About Jennifer O’Neal:Jennifer O’Neal is the co-owner of Live Oak Audiovisual, a Seattle-based company specializing in live events, hybrid experiences, and live streaming. Starting her career in high school at McDonald’s, Jennifer learned early lessons in leadership, empowerment, and customer service that would later define her entrepreneurial approach. A graduate of EO Accelerator and now an EO member, Jennifer credits EO with helping her move beyond perfectionism, embrace vulnerability, and rebuild her company stronger after COVID. She is also a published author in the Lead Like a Woman series, a passionate mentor, and a connector who finds deep fulfillment in being a resource for others.About EO Seattle:Entrepreneurs’ Organization is a global community of 20,000+ entrepreneurs across 220 chapters in 61 countries. EO helps business owners connect, learn, and grow through shared experiences that support their business, family, community, and personal journeys.This podcast features real entrepreneurs sharing real challenges and solutions.No pitches, no sales—just honest conversations about the moments that shape successful businesses.