jordansangalang.com

Tag: coaching

  • Behind the Scenes of a Solo Deaf Freelancer

    Behind the Scenes of a Solo Deaf Freelancer

    Working Alone in the Studio

    As a solo Deaf freelancer translating documents, videos, and content into ASL, the work can feel a little lonesome—especially when I’m holed up in my studio with just the lights and camera on me.

    After filming, I rewatch myself to make sure everything is clear and accurate. Then it’s off to the laptop, where I transfer the videos and open Final Cut Pro to trim, edit, and polish.

    Depending on the client’s request, I might:

    • Replace the background
    • Adjust colors
    • Tweak the lighting so I don’t appear to be “glowing”

    Once the video looks good, I upload it to the cloud, send the client the download link, and attach my invoice.

    Ta-da. Done. Then I wait—knowing payday is coming. Of course, if needed, I’ll do a redo. I take pride in my work and always aim to deliver my best.

    Collaboration and Valuable Feedback

    Sometimes projects require a bigger team, especially when the video will be widely published. That often means bringing in an ASL reviewer, who ensures clarity, accuracy, and correct sign choices before giving the final approval.

    Working with different reviewers and coaches has given me feedback I never received before—and it’s been invaluable.

    One big lesson: my facial expressions (NMS). I realized they sometimes unintentionally changed the meaning of messages. It was a habit I hadn’t noticed, but now I know how much it impacts clarity.

    I’ve also partnered with professional video editors, who shared tips to improve my technical setup. For example, one pointed out the shadows in my background. Since my home studio is small, removing shadows meant moving closer to the camera—but that also limited my signing space.

    Technical Breakthroughs

    Recently, I made a major discovery: manual camera settings beat Auto White Balance every time.

    Shadows in the background had been causing my camera to constantly readjust, which changed my skin tone throughout recordings. This created editing nightmares—especially with green screen effects.

    Switching to manual settings was a game changer.

    Lighting was another upgrade. At first, I used bright LED lights to minimize shadows, but they reflected too much on the green screen. Following a client’s video editor’s advice, I switched to softer lighting.

    The results?

    • A more natural on-camera look
    • Easier editing
    • A stronger presence as “the talent”

    The Ongoing Journey

    As a solo Deaf translator, there’s always something new to learn.

    Being coachable, professional, and open to feedback has been the key to:

    • Delivering higher-quality work
    • Strengthening client relationships
    • Building long-term collaborations

    What I value most is working with others who share the passion for making projects accessible in ASL with high-quality videos and translations.

    Building a Business From Home

    If you’re looking to build something from home, translation services are just one path. Personally, I also work in:

    • High-ticket sales
    • Coaching and mentorship
    • Health and wellness products
    • Sign language interpreting services

    And if translations aren’t your thing? You can still create a business by selling products or offering services people already use and need.

    Let’s Connect

    If this is something you’re interested in, comment below or send me a message. I’d love to connect and learn more about your goals!

    Lightning photoshoot studio

  • The Step Parents Can Take Today to Start an Online Business with Part-Time Hours

    From Research to Action: How Parents with Full-Time Jobs Can Start an Online Business

    Wrapping Up Q3: Proof That Part-Time Work Can Pay Off

    As we wrap up Q3 this year, I’ve generated nearly $20K in the last two months—working only part-time hours. This is in addition to my part-time job doing sales with another company.

    That steady income gives me the stability to build this on the side until it takes off. Now that I’m finishing up this project, my next focus is creating a system to bring new clients into the pipeline for Q4. My goal is to close out the year strong and step into the new year with momentum and a full pipeline that sets me up to scale.

    How Coaching and Mentorship Made This Possible

    None of this would have been possible without coaching and mentorship in the high-ticket sales space.

    The skills and experience I’ve gained have translated directly into building this additional income stream, all while working part-time hours. More importantly, I’ve discovered something I truly enjoy—work that has meaningful impact and aligns with my values and vision.

    And this is just the beginning.

    For Parents Stuck in Research Mode

    If you’re reading this as a parent with a full-time job, I know what you’re probably thinking:
    “That sounds great, but I don’t know where to start.”

    I’ve been there too—stuck in research mode, overwhelmed with options, trying to figure out the “perfect” pathbefore taking the first step. The truth is, the perfect time or plan doesn’t exist. What moves you forward is action.

    How You Can Get Started

    I’m opening spots to train, coach, and mentor parents who want to learn how to build a profitable online business—even while working full-time. I’ll give you the blueprint you need to get started and guide you every step of the way.

    The only requirements:

    • Willingness to invest in yourself
    • Being coachable
    • Taking consistent action
    • Ability to adapt and pivot along the way

    Confidence doesn’t come first—it’s built by doing, making mistakes, learning lessons, and moving forward stronger.

    A Message for Those On the Fence

    For those of you still on the fence, caught in research mode or stuck in analysis paralysis—this is your moment.

    I’d rather have you make a clear decision—whether it’s a “yes” or a “no”—than stay stuck in “maybe.” Because “maybe” keeps you exactly where you are.

    What You’ll Gain Beyond Income

    Taking action won’t just help you financially. You’ll also gain:

    • Health and well-being benefits
    • Increased time freedom and flexibility
    • The ability to build a business aligned with your values

    Once you learn these skills, you can apply them to build your own business and create a lifestyle that gives you more freedom.

    Next Steps

    If this speaks to you, let’s connect. I’d love to learn more about you, your goals, and your dreams.

    Take action today—your future self will thank you.

    Let’s Connect By Sending Me A Message.

    ← Back

    Thanks for your message. Looking forward to connecting with you soon!

  • Deaf and Burned by MLM? It Might’ve Been a Pyramid Scheme — Here’s the Truth

    Recently, a video went viral in the Deaf community. A Deaf person shared their personal story about being involved in an MLM (multi-level marketing) business and strongly discouraged others from joining one.

    I want to offer a different perspective — not to dismiss anyone’s experience, but to clarify what many people are actually talking about when they say “MLM.” Because here’s the truth: what most people are calling MLM is really a pyramid scheme in disguise.

    And that difference matters. A lot.

    Let’s Start With the Basics: What’s the Difference?

    A pyramid scheme is an illegal and unethical business model. It focuses solely (or mostly) on recruiting others, with little to no real product being sold. These kinds of schemes are built like a house of cards — as soon as people stop recruiting, the entire structure collapses.

    On the other hand, a legitimate MLM or network marketing company is product-driven. The income comes from selling products, and while recruiting is an option, it is not required to make money. A true MLM allows someone to earn commissions purely from product sales.

    What Went Wrong for Many People

    The truth is, many people feel burned not because of MLM itself, but because of how they were introduced to it. Some common issues:

    • They joined something that was unsustainable from the start
    • They were pressured with hype and emotional manipulation
    • They didn’t receive proper support, mentorship, or training
    • They were promised “easy money” with no real effort or skill building

    That’s not ethical. And I don’t support that kind of approach.

    In fact, one of the worst things I’ve seen is people pressuring others to join — especially when they know the person is already in a financially stressful situation. That’s not only unethical, it’s predatory.

    But Let’s Also Be Honest About This…

    Yes, there are people out there who know how to press all the right buttons to make you sign up.

    But at the end of the day, we all have to own our decisions.

    That person said what you wanted to hear. They gave you hope, desire, possibility — and maybe, in that moment, you didn’t stop to ask the hard questions. You didn’t let yourself be skeptical.

    And I get it. You were looking for a way out. A way forward. But blaming “MLM” as a whole might be the wrong target.

    There Is a Right Way to Do This

    I’ve been in the world of high-ticket sales and network marketing for a while. And when done right, there’s so much value that can come from it — especially if you’re Deaf and want more control over your time and income.

    Through a legitimate MLM or sales mentorship program, you can learn:

    • How to persuade and influence ethically
    • How to sell with confidence
    • How to speak clearly and communicate value
    • How to build an online business from anywhere

    These aren’t just business skills — these are life skills. Whether you stay in MLM or move on to something else, those skills stay with you.

    So What Should You Do Next?

    Be smart. Be cautious. Do your research. Ask questions before jumping in. Make sure it’s product-based. Make sure there’s mentorship and training. And make sure you’re not being pressured into something that doesn’t feel right.

    But don’t let one bad experience (yours or someone else’s) block you from building a better future on your terms.

    Ready to Build an Online Business Your Way?

    If you’re Deaf and want to build an online business your way — with the right guidance, without pressure, and based on real skills — I’d love to connect.

    Fill out the form below to book a call with me:

  • Let’s Talk About Debt, Assets, and Why Building an Online Business is an Investment — Not a Free Ride

    Within the past 2 years, I’ve helped a number of Deaf individuals with full-time jobs build online businesses. Along the way, I’ve had many conversations with curious leads who wanted to know what I do and how they could get started. One common misunderstanding I’ve encountered is the idea that starting an online business is free — especially when people read terms like “$0 down” or “OPM” (Other People’s Money).

    Let’s clear this up. While you can start with $0 down upfront, that doesn’t mean it’s free. Just like buying a car, a couch, or a new phone — high-ticket items often come with payment plans. You might not pay anything the first 30 or 60 days, or you might get 0% interest for 6 months. But let’s be honest: it still costs money.

    The difference is how we view these purchases. Most people willingly go into debt for things that don’t make them money — cars, furniture, entertainment tech — and pay them off by working more hours. These are what I call bad debts: liabilities that cost you time and money without giving anything back.

    Now, good debt is different. It’s still a financial commitment, but one that helps you generate income. For example, a car used for Uber or delivery is a business asset. The same car used just to drive to work is a liability. A phone used for Netflix is a cost. A phone used to run an online business is an asset.

    The key is cashflow. If your investment creates income, it’s an asset. And that’s the opportunity I’m sharing with you today.

    When you work with me, you’re not just buying a product — although the product itself supports your health and the environment. You’re also getting:

    • A proven online business system
    • My personalized coaching and mentorship
    • Access to a supportive community

    This is more than an online course with pre-recorded lessons. I walk with you one-on-one. I give you feedback, accountability, and direct guidance to help you succeed — because I’ve seen too many people invest in generic programs that left them confused, frustrated, and broke.

    You don’t need experience. You do need commitment.

    That’s when fear kicks in. And I’ve seen it all:

    • “What if I fail?”
    • “My wife isn’t sure.”
    • “My friend said it’s a scam.”

    These doubts are normal. But ask yourself: Are you afraid of the opportunity or are you afraid of your own potential?

    I won’t sugarcoat it: success takes work. Like learning to ride a bike, you might fall a few times. But once you gain momentum, you’ll build confidence, skill, and eventually freedom.

    Imagine:

    • Financial freedom – paying your bills without stress
    • Time freedom – earning more without working longer
    • Location freedom – working from anywhere in the world
    • Health freedom — feel energized, clear-minded, and in control of your physical and mental well-being.
    • Mental freedom — break free from stress, anxiety, and overwhelm so you can focus on what truly matters.

    All starting from one decision — to invest in your growth.

    If you’re serious about change — in your health, finances, or life — and you’re ready to take action, then let’s talk. I only work with people who are ready. If that’s you, book a call. Let’s explore the options and map out your path to freedom.

    Book A Call

  • The Playground Face-Off Between the Deaf Dad and Hearing Dad

    I’d like to share an incident between with my toddler and a hearing kid at the playground…

    The other day, my family and I went to a splash pad with other friends and their toddlers. There was a playground beside as well.

    My toddler’s hearing aids were taken off when playing at the splash pad. Then we went to play at the play structure afterward. It was a hot sunny day and good way to dry off anyway. We played on the swings then went around to pick up sticks and grass then brought them to the play structure. Also added wood chips. I guess you could say we were playing make-believe meals.

    While playing together a bit, I let my toddler play independently as there were other kids at the playground as well. Then there was a hearing kid who walked up behind my toddler and started speaking.

    My toddler turned around and got startled then looked at me signing, “She scared me.”

    This situation triggered me back to my childhood years at the playground. Growing up, I was taught to be polite (or whatever that is) and gesture by tapping on my ears to show I’m deaf. However, this isn’t what I taught my toddler to do. I recalled what my toddler just told me.

    Instead I told my toddler, “Tell her that.” And my toddler did.

    However, the hearing kid continued to speak.

    Again, this triggered me and I recall when I was a kid, I’d resort forcing myself to speak with my deaf voice, “I’m deaf… I canno… under…tand you…! …top it!” But I didn’t tell my toddler to speak.

    As a parent, I could see that the hearing kid wanted to play with my toddler, but my toddler looked at me signing, “I don’t hear her and I don’t understand her.”

    Instead, I signed back, “Tell her that.” And my toddler did.

    I could see that the hearing kid was confused then started to go closer right in front my my toddler’s face.

    My toddler signed, “Tell her to stop talking to me. I don’t understand her.”

    Another trigger was that I’d shove the hearing kid and just sucker punch them. When I was a kid, I sure had ways to communicate with my hands, specifically, my fists. But, I didn’t tell my toddler to do that.

    “Tell her that.” And my toddler did.

    The hearing kid was visibly frustrated and was offended, then went up to her father for a hug.

    My toddler noticed that she left her alone and looked at me, “It’s okay. She’s sad and needs to go to her father.”

    Clearly, this communication barrier made the hearing kid feel frustrated. I left that for her father to deal with her.

    Yes, I’m well-aware this made the hearing kid feel uncomfortable and that’s why her father was there to comfort her since it wasn’t my job to do that. My job was to coach my toddler to advocate and communicate unapologetically in ASL.

    In case you’re wondering how this ended. The father was explaining to his kid that my toddler is deaf and would have to wave or tap my toddler’s shoulders for attention. He coached his kid how to do this. Then they ended up having fun and playing together.

    And for us dads at the playground, we looked at each other, smiled and gave each other the dad nod.

    There was certainly a lesson to be learned out of this.

  • Advice I would give to my teenage self

    What advice would you give to your teenage self?

    The one advice I would give to my teenage self is a higher education degree does not necessarily correlate with a higher salary.

    Sure, it depends on the speciality but is not necessarily true for all degrees. In my case, all my degrees are liberal arts degrees.

    Another thing I’d add is that being a high paid employee doesn’t guarantee financial freedom. At the end of the day, employees are taxed. And especially more when they’re on the higher tax bracket.

    So, I’ll encourage my teenage self to explore the entrepreneurship path as well. This will come along with other skills to be developed as well.

    Anything else you’ll like to add that you want to advise to your teenage self?