Number 380 June 12, 2026 St. Louis

Success Story: LIVEJESSELIVE, LLC – R&B Record Producer + Engineer

Photograph courtesy of Sound Better

For Jesse Johnson Jr., music has always been about more than creating songs. It’s about creating opportunities.

As the founder of LIVEJESSELIVE, LLC, Jesse has spent years developing a creative ecosystem that helps independent artists grow their careers while maintaining ownership of their work.

Operating from Midtown St. Louis, LIVEJESSELIVE combines music production, engineering, visual arts, broadcasting, publishing administration, and artist development under one roof. The goal is simple: give artists the tools, knowledge, and support they need to succeed without sacrificing their future.

Photo courtesy of Instagram

But like many entrepreneurs, turning a vision into a sustainable business comes with challenges.
Building and maintaining a professional studio environment, investing in equipment, developing a 24/7 digital broadcast platform, and creating opportunities for artists all require resources. Jesse knew that to continue growing LIVEJESSELIVE and serving the creative community, he needed a financial partner that understood both entrepreneurship and long-term impact.

That’s where Justine PETERSEN came in. Through its small-business lending and technical assistance programs, Justine PETERSEN provided Jesse with the support he needed to strengthen and expand his business. More than financing, the partnership offered encouragement and resources that allowed him to stay focused on his mission of artist empowerment.

“Justine PETERSEN believed in what I was building,” Jesse shared.
“They saw the value in creating opportunities for artists and helping small businesses grow. Their support has allowed me to continue investing in my vision and the people I serve.”

LIVEJESSELIVE continues to grow as a creative hub where artists can record music, develop their brands, learn the business side of the industry, and gain exposure through the company’s innovative 24/7 YouTube broadcast. By offering a fair and collaborative model, Jesse is helping creators understand the value of ownership while providing them with real pathways to profitability.

For Jesse, the partnership with Justine PETERSEN represents more than access to capital. It represents the ability to continue doing the work he loves—helping artists build sustainable careers and creating opportunities within the St. Louis creative community.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to keep moving forward,” Jesse said. “Every day I get to help artists tell their stories, build their brands, and create something meaningful. That’s what drives me.”

As LIVEJESSELIVE continues to evolve, Jesse remains committed to the vision that started it all: empowering creators, building community, and proving that independent artists can succeed with the right support behind them.

At Justine PETERSEN, we’re proud to support entrepreneurs like Jesse Johnson Jr., who are using their talents, creativity, and determination to strengthen communities and create opportunities for others.

Full Speed Ahead: Racing Toward Financial Opportunity

Pictured above COO of Justine PETERSEN, Sheri Flanigan-Vazquez, and Husband Jesus Vazquez

This past weekend, members of the Justine PETERSEN team had the opportunity to experience the excitement and energy of a major race at World Wide Technology Raceway.

As race cars sped around the track, it was hard not to think about the role reliable transportation plays in helping individuals and families reach their own goals. While professional drivers compete for a spot in victory lane, many of our clients are simply working toward something equally important. Situations such as getting to work, taking their children to school, attending medical appointments, or pursuing new opportunities.

The DRIVE Program helps eligible borrowers refinance high-interest auto loans, often lowering monthly payments and creating more financial stability. For many families, a dependable vehicle isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity that helps keep life moving forward.

Race day served as a reminder that everyone deserves a chance to stay on the road to success. Whether it’s helping someone purchase a home, start a business, build credit, or secure affordable transportation, Justine PETERSEN is committed to helping people navigate the journey ahead.

The track may have been filled with race cars this weekend, but every day we’re helping our clients gain the tools and resources they need to keep moving toward their own finish lines.

Pictured above is the family of LaTrisha Gandy

Opening Doors to Homeownership Through Education

At Justine PETERSEN, we believe that homeownership is one of the most powerful tools for building wealth, stability, and generational opportunity. That’s why we’re proud to partner with eHome America to help individuals and families gain the knowledge and confidence needed to achieve their homeownership goals.

Through this partnership, aspiring homeowners have access to convenient, online homebuyer education that can be completed at their own pace. The program covers essential topics such as budgeting, credit management, mortgage readiness, the homebuying process, and maintaining a home after purchase. Combined with Justine PETERSEN’s housing counseling services, participants receive both the education and personalized support needed to make informed financial decisions.

Justine PETERSEN and eHome America are helping break down barriers to homeownership by making quality education accessible to more people, regardless of their schedule or location. The result is a stronger foundation for future homeowners, healthier communities, and greater opportunities for families to build lasting wealth.

Whether you’re preparing to purchase your first home, working to improve your financial readiness, or simply exploring your options, the journey starts with education. Through our partnership with eHome America, we’re helping more individuals and families take that first step toward a place to call home.

Ready to begin your homeownership journey? Visit eHome America through Justine PETERSEN and connect with our housing counseling team to learn more about the resources available to you.

Learn more

Our next in-person Lunch and Learn will be held at Elevator St. Louis with Elizabeth Wade!

After a fantastic turnout and engaging conversations at our recent Lunch & Learn, we’re excited to invite you to the next installment of our educational series at Elevator St. Louis.

On June 18, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, join Elizabeth Wade for Navigating Your Cash Flow, an informative session designed to help individuals and business owners better understand, manage, and optimize their cash flow. Whether you’re growing a business, planning for future investments, or simply looking to strengthen your financial foundation, this session will provide practical insights you can put to work right away.

Beyond the presentation, attendees will have the opportunity to network with like-minded entrepreneurs, professionals, and community members in the innovative new space at Elevator St. Louis. It’s a chance to learn, connect, and build relationships with others who are committed to growth and success.

We look forward to seeing you there as we continue to bring valuable financial education and community connections together under one roof.

Come learn, connect, and elevate your financial future!

Eventbrite Link

Ignite Illinois: Empowering Small Business Owners in Southern Illinois!

Are you a small business owner in Southern Illinois? Ignite Illinois is your opportunity to access essential funding and support services to grow and strengthen your business. Whether you need accounting help, legal guidance, or tools to boost your credit, we’re here to assist!

Don’t miss this chance to invest in your future and take your business to the next level!

Have questions?

Please reach out to Peyton McGovern at pmcgovern@justinepetersen.org.