A decade after surviving an armed robbery and abduction, Jennifer Lee created the I Need Blue podcast. She recognized a need for other survivors to share their stories in a space where they felt comfortable. I Need Blue became that space where survivors feel they belong, are loved, are understood, and feel empowered to share their truth.
In 2021, in an effort to educate and empower more people, Jennifer began speaking before local groups, non-profits, and national organizations. Through her podcast, speaking engagements, and upcoming book, she has given other survivors a person to relate to, information to help them, and a space to share their stories.
In 2022, she was nominated for the Melbourne Chamber of Commerce Hero appreciation week for her efforts in helping other survivors heal.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I married my current husband in 2018. I have 2 boys who are 23 and 25; both Marines. 1 is active and the other reserves; non-active.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I have 20+ years in retail management; from luxury to thrift. In 2015, my first year with Tumi, I had the number 1 outlet in the United States based upon sales growth. After, I moved to Washington State where i was Asst Manager for the worlds second largest Goodwill. Prior to retail, I have 5 years of advertising marketing account management. No matter what I did, what I love most was having an IMPACT.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
FLAMES Mediterranean Grill, Meg O’Malley, and Time Square Pizza
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community? And what brought you here?
We relocated in 2018 when my husband started working for L3Harris
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community? Why?
Sandy Michelson – Zonta Club of Melbourne/ Green Gables at Historic Riverview Village/ Chamber events/ABWA. She is everywhere and always smiling, positive and can make you laugh.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
The Voice and AGT. I like people being able to showcase their talents. Seinfeld – no need to explain. Movie – I loved the Transformers movies
Q: What advice would you give to your younger self?
Be gentle on yourself. Serenity in silence and comfort within your own thoughts is possible, it just takes a little time to get there.
Q: What is something on your bucket list? Why?
A family trip with my boys and their families. Any place they want to go as long as it is warm
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to? Why?
ABBA, I grew up listening to it and I loved MaMa Mia on Broadway
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community? Why?
Gator Golf – I grew up playing putt-putt golf.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Elon Musk – I see someone who colors outside the lines and rarely, are the lines clearly defined. I know a little about him, but I’d like to hear form his lips what he has to say. I would love a catered lunch at NASA during a rocket launch. Why not, right?
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I live in Suntree and I love the lakes, the trees and it’s quiet. We have a generous community; I see much support for the non-profits.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
As a teenager I loved watching Oprah. I wanted a show like hers where she could create such an environment of trust and comfort, people would come and share their stories and trauma. She would help them. I remember watching the domestic violence stories with the women saying they couldn’t leave. I would get upset with them. In my mind I’m saying, “just leave. It’s easy.” Until the day came and I was in their shoes. I feel my podcast is the foundation of greater things to come. I listen to God and he guides me. .
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I was media spokesperson for the Richmond VA market when I worked for a women’s clothing store. Later I was chosen to go to New York for 2 days of media training and they treated us to a Broadway show. It was amazing.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10? Why?
Fuji – It was beautiful, hospitable and the people appreciative.
Q: Who inspires you to be better? How?
My podcast guests definitely inspire me. Their courage to share comes from their desire to help others. My community inspires me through their support; referring friends to my podcast, business listings on web-site, and making time for one-on-one coffee chats. We make time for what is important, and they definitely make me feel wanted.. .
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
safety, security, stability
