Today we’d like to introduce you to Jane Mitchell.
Hi Jane, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Jane Mitchell is a self-taught entrepreneur who founded Jungle Jane Promotions, a family-owned and operated business, after identifying a need for more thoughtful, strategic marketing solutions. Her journey began after spending 20 years as a hairstylist, a career that allowed her to build strong relationships and truly understand the value of personal connection. When her children started school, Jane wanted a business that offered more flexibility and aligned with her desire to work daytime hours rather than nights and weekends.
In 1994, she launched her first venture, Cards 4 You, a follow-up card sending service designed to help businesses stay connected with their clients in a meaningful way. As she worked closely with her customers, Jane recognized an opportunity to expand beyond simple follow-up and into broader marketing strategy. In 1998, she began consulting with clients on how to integrate promotional products into their overall marketing campaigns and officially opened Tarzan Promotions.
Over time, the business evolved along with Jane’s growing expertise and vision. In 2011, she rebranded the company as Jungle Jane Promotions, a name that better reflected her personality, approach, and commitment to helping businesses stand out in a crowded marketplace. Today, the company generates over $1,000,000 in annual sales and employs 3 full-time team members and 2 part-time employee.
Jane holds a Master’s Advertising Specialist Certification, placing her in the top 2% of professionals in her industry. What truly sets her apart is her role as a marketing consultant rather than a product peddler. Through Jungle Jane Promotions, Jane helps her clients build brand awareness, increase employee retention, and create marketing experiences that leave a lasting impression on the mind, body, and heart.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Like many entrepreneurs, I have faced several pivotal challenges throughout my business journey that ultimately shaped the company into what it is today.
One of my first major struggles occurred during the 2008 economic downturn. At the time, my Cards 4 You business served primarily real estate clients, an industry that was heavily impacted by the market collapse. As my clients struggled, so did my business. This challenge forced me to reassess my direction and led to a significant pivot toward promotional products. By expanding into promotional marketing and consulting, I was able to diversify my client base and create a more resilient business model.
Another challenge arose in 2011 when I received a formal notice from the Edgar Rice Burroughs Foundation, informing me that the name Tarzan Promotions was trademarked and could no longer be used. While unexpected, this obstacle became a powerful opportunity. I invited my customers into the process by hosting a naming contest, and together we created Jungle Jane Promotions. The new name retained the jungle theme while better reflecting my personality, approach, and commitment to helping businesses stand out and successfully navigate the “marketing jungle.” The rebrand resonated strongly with clients and became a catalyst for renewed growth.
The most recent challenge came in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, when events and in-person marketing opportunities came to a sudden halt. With no events taking place, I once again leaned on my adaptability and experience. Drawing from my background with Cards 4 You, I shifted focus to targeted mailing campaigns, helping clients stay connected with their teams and customers who were working remotely and meeting on Zoom. This strategic shift allowed the business not only to survive but to continue serving clients during a very uncertain time.
Each of these challenges strengthened my ability to pivot, innovate, and lead with strategy and skills that continue to guide the growth and success of Jungle Jane Promotions today.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
At the core of my work is helping businesses grow with purpose and intention. I specialize in strategic promotional marketing, serving as a marketing consultant rather than simply a product provider. I work closely with my clients to understand their goals, culture, and challenges, then design promotional solutions that strengthen brand awareness, improve employee engagement, and create meaningful, lasting impressions.
I am best known for helping clients navigate the “marketing jungle,” cutting through the noise with thoughtful, well-planned campaigns that support long-term growth. My approach is rooted in relationship building and strategy, not one-off sales. Because of this, many of my clients have worked with me for years, growing and evolving alongside their businesses.
What I am most proud of is watching my clients succeed. Seeing their teams become more engaged, their brands become stronger, and their businesses grow as a result of the work we’ve done together is the most rewarding part of what I do.
I am also proud of several professional accomplishments that reflect my commitment to leadership and innovation. I earned a Pyramid Award from Promotional Products Association International for an internal marketing campaign I created to increase employee participation in quarterly in-house training for one of my clients. The campaign was so successful that the company expanded the program to monthly training sessions.
In 2025, I was honored to receive the Athena Leadership Award, a highly competitive recognition that exemplifies the eight tenets of leadership. The Athena Award has been part of our community for 44 years and is now recognized nationally, with only one recipient selected each year per region. I was the 44th recipient in Lansing, an honor that deeply reflects my commitment to leadership, mentorship, and community impact.
What truly sets me apart is my ability to combine strategy, creativity, and genuine care for the people behind each business. I don’t just help companies market themselves—I help them grow in ways that feel authentic, sustainable, and meaningful.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I would not be where I am today without the support, encouragement, and partnership of many people along the way.
First and foremost, my husband, Ken, deserves immense credit. He has supported me from day one—encouraging me, believing in me, and consistently reminding me that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to. His unwavering belief in me gave me the confidence to take risks, pivot when needed, and continue growing even during challenging seasons.
My family has also played a significant role in my success. They have always been patient and understanding during the many times I needed to attend events, meetings, and community commitments that pulled me away. Their support allowed me to show up fully for my business and my clients.
I have also been fortunate to be surrounded by mentors, cheerleaders, and advocates through various women’s groups and professional networks. These communities have provided guidance, accountability, and inspiration throughout my journey. One of the most meaningful initiatives to come from this support was the CEO group I founded to help micro-businesses with five or fewer employees. Creating a space for collaboration, education, and encouragement has been both impactful and deeply rewarding.
Lastly, I am incredibly grateful for my employees who work alongside me every day. They are not only dedicated team members but also teachers and collaborators who continually introduce new ideas and fresh perspectives. Their willingness to grow, adapt, and learn together has been essential to the ongoing success of the business.
Each of these individuals and groups has contributed in unique and meaningful ways, and I am truly grateful for the role they have played in both my personal and professional journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.JungleJanePromotions.com
- Instagram: @junglejanepromotions
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jane.b.mitchell.5
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jungle-jane-mitchell/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=jungle+jane+promotions
