Check Out Jen Horling’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jen Horling

Hi Jen, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Jen’s creative experience started at an early age with a simple box of Crayola’s, a giddy eye for new, crisp brochures in the hotel lobbies of every family vacay, and a hand that throughout high school was often covered by sharpie. Creativity which led to a degree in graphic design as a graduate of Kendall college of Art & Design in her hometown of Grand Rapids Michigan, as well as continued education in Film Production years later in her career at Compass College of Cinematic Arts. But her learning didn’t stop there, in 2017 Jen was accepted into a 2-week intensive production design workshop at The London Film School.

After reading that, it might be hard to believe, that back when she was a freshman in college, she lost her dad to suicide. But for Jen, that’s the moment when life became so real. The moment when she knew that life was short, and people REALLY mattered. In the depths of that loss, she heard a voice “Jen, we’ve got this…you and me”. God became her rock, and a new passion for the lost, lonely, and hurting started to beat alongside a passion for art and the creative talents that were unfolding.

Not wanting to use her degree to “sell something to somebody”, and her desire to help people grounding her creative vision, Jen was led to work as a designer for Family Christian Stores. As her vision expanded, she moved to full-time freelance, working with numerous clients like; Kumveka – A non profit marketing agency that provided branding and communication services to Christ-focused ministries around the world; and The Oasis Network – a multifaceted international organization that works to equip and service leaders all over the globe.

Her roots in freelance, non-profit and corporate design work, served as a great foundation for an art transition into the film world as years continued to by. With experience as Production Designer, Art Director, Set Designer, Set Dresser, Props Master, Specialty Prop Artist, Wardrobe & Costuming, and Art Assistant roles, as well as numerous pre and post production involvements from concept art to various graphics, she was uniquely equipped. Her collaborations with production companies continued quickly expanded, as did the team alongside her.
Finding her coach, a woman named Dani Johnson, was the most pivotal catalyst for the passion & vision on Jen’s heart. She found a coach who viewed her God in the same way she did…BIG!! And was living proof that there was no limits for what you could do for people, because she was living proof of it. Devoting herself to training and getting to learn from someone who truely cared about people like she did, put her on a course that continues to exceed what she ever thought truely possible.

While Jen went on to reach the highest levels of the entertainment industry working as the lead graphic designer for Seasons 19 & 20 of Hells Kitchen, Next Level Chef, Disney’s Fam Jam, and countless other shows and feature films it wasn’t the only thing that launched.

In 2019 Jen founded and launched The Overcomers. A movement focused on helping connect those who are currently struggling with those who have overcome. With a passion to inspire others that where they’re at right now is not the end. Jen’s story is one from suicide to success, and from confusion to clarity. If Jen could overcome…so can YOU.

But she didn’t just launch a movement, she simultaneously authored 2 books and kicked off her own coaching, as an overcomer coach helping people overcome.

Each day is never the same, as she continues to take on new clients, and juggles freelance for numerous businesses, non-profits, and feature films. All while meeting so many who need help. Who need to be inspired. That no matter where they’re at, it’s not over.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t been a smooth road at all. In fact, it’s been filled with some of the most difficult challenges I could have imagined. Losing my dad to suicide when I was a freshman in college was a defining moment in my life—one that left me grappling with unimaginable grief, trauma, and fear. That loss forced me to confront some deep questions about my identity and purpose. I struggled with limiting beliefs about what I could do, who I could be, and whether I was truly equipped to make a difference.

For a long time, I felt stuck in confusion and doubt, unsure of how to reconcile my pain with the creative gifts and passions I had been given. But through it all, I found strength in faith and community. God became my rock, and I learned to hear His voice guiding me through the hardest moments. It was in those whispered reassurances that I began to rediscover my identity—not in what had happened to me, but in who I was created to be.

Overcoming didn’t happen overnight. It was a process of healing, of taking bold steps in the face of fear, of leaning into the discomfort of growth. Whether it was pushing past the fear of rejection, letting go of relationships that weren’t healthy, or unlearning the limiting beliefs that kept me small, each challenge stretched me and shaped me into someone stronger.

Much of my journey—overcoming grief, rediscovering my identity, and breaking through those limiting beliefs—is shared in my books. They hold the raw, honest truths of what it takes to go from pain to purpose. It’s been messy, but it’s also been beautiful. And through it all, I’ve learned that the hardest roads often lead to the most incredible destinations. My story is proof that where you are right now doesn’t have to be where you stay.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in graphic design, particularly in high-pressure, high-stakes environments where precision and creativity are equally important. I’m known for my ability to not only dream up big, visionary ideas but also execute them with incredible attention to detail. Whether it’s designing graphics for network television shows with millions of viewers or crafting branding for organizations with a global reach, I’ve built a reputation for delivering excellence—even under intense pressure.

One of my proudest moments professionally was working as the lead graphic designer for Seasons 19 and 20 of Hell’s Kitchen. My boss on that project, a former production designer for The Ellen DeGeneres Show, described me as “one of the most gifted graphic designers” he’d worked with, emphasizing how my team and I consistently exceeded expectations despite tight deadlines and the pressure of delivering for Chef Ramsey himself. Staying calm and composed in those high-stress moments is something that sets me apart, and I believe it’s a reflection of the peace and strength I’ve found through my faith.

While I’m proud of the work I’ve done in the entertainment industry and beyond, what truly brings me the most pride is what I’ve been able to overcome with my Creator’s help. Losing my dad to suicide could have derailed me, but instead, it became the catalyst for a passion to help others who feel lost, lonely, or broken. That passion led to the launch of The Overcomers movement, which connects people who are struggling with those who have overcome, offering hope and inspiration that life’s hardest moments don’t have to define us.

What sets me apart isn’t just my skills or accomplishments—it’s the heart behind everything I do. Whether I’m designing for a TV show, coaching someone through a breakthrough, or writing to share my story, it’s all about helping others see that where they are now isn’t the end of their story. That’s what drives me, and that’s what I’m most proud of.

If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
I believe the most important quality to my success has been maintaining a teachable mindset. No matter how much experience I’ve gained or how skilled I’ve become, I’ve always approached every project and opportunity as a chance to learn and grow. Staying teachable has kept me adaptable, open to feedback, and constantly evolving in both my craft and my character.

Alongside that, embracing humility has been essential. Humility allows me to acknowledge that I don’t have all the answers and that every person I work with—whether it’s a director, a producer, or someone behind the scenes—has something valuable to contribute. By approaching every collaboration with a genuine respect for others’ perspectives and talents, I’ve been able to foster strong, positive relationships that bring out the best in everyone involved.

Lastly, truly caring about people has been a cornerstone of my success. Whether it’s the clients I design for, the team I’m collaborating with on a production, or the individuals I coach through The Overcomers movement, I aim to make people feel seen, valued, and supported. I’ve learned that when you care deeply about those around you, it not only creates a better working environment but also leads to results that reflect that shared passion and connection.

These qualities—teachability, humility, and a genuine love for people—have shaped my career and allowed me to succeed in ways that go beyond just professional achievements. They’ve helped me leave a positive impact wherever I go, and that’s something I’m incredibly grateful for.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sponge-designs.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenhorling/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jen.horling
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheOvercomersMovement