Summary of “This Speech Will Change Your Life!” – Commencement Speech by Jamie Kern Lima at Columbia University GSB 2025
Podcast: The Jamie Kern Lima Show
Host/Author: Jamie Kern Lima
Episode Title: “This Speech Will Change Your Life!” – Commencement Speech “What Will You Do With The Power That Is YOU?”
Release Date: May 20, 2025
Introduction
In this powerful commencement speech delivered at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Business (GSB) to the Class of 2025, Jamie Kern Lima shares her inspiring journey from facing relentless rejection to building a billion-dollar beauty empire. Central to her message is the transformative power of self-belief and the pivotal question, “What will you do with the power that is you?” This speech not only chronicles her personal and professional challenges but also serves as a motivational blueprint for graduates to harness their inner strength and pursue their true calling.
The Power of Self-Belief
Jamie begins by introducing the concept that asking oneself a simple, yet profound question daily can revolutionize one's confidence and life trajectory.
Jamie Kern Lima [00:00]: “Imagine if one tool that's a simple question to ask yourself every day can transform your confidence, your self belief and your entire life.”
She emphasizes that recognizing and trusting the inherent power within oneself is essential for overcoming self-doubt and achieving greatness.
Personal Journey and Overcoming Adversity
Jamie recounts her early struggles as a waitress facing constant rejection. Her determination led her to Columbia Business School, where she decided to pursue journalism against conventional wisdom. Despite earning a prestigious degree, her path was fraught with obstacles, including a severe skin condition that jeopardized her career in live television.
Jamie Kern Lima [05:00]: “When I glanced down live on TV... I saw desert clay cracking and red coming through. My rosacea was coming through in live television.”
This moment of vulnerability catalyzed her entrepreneurial spirit. Instead of succumbing to self-doubt, Jamie chose to create a solution for her skin condition, leading to the birth of IT Cosmetics.
Building IT Cosmetics Amid Rejections
Jamie details the arduous journey of establishing IT Cosmetics from her living room. She faced numerous rejections from retailers and investors who doubted the viability of her inclusive beauty vision.
Jamie Kern Lima [10:30]: “Every single retail store said no. And so many of them said, if you have any shot at selling products in our store, you have to use images of unattainable aspiration.”
Despite financial hardships and countless “no’s,” Jamie remained steadfast, driven by the belief in her mission to redefine beauty standards by showcasing real people with diverse skin conditions.
The Turning Point with QVC
The pivotal moment came when QVC, a vast live television shopping platform, gave her one last chance to prove her concept. The stakes were incredibly high, with the potential to sell over 6,000 units in a single 10-minute live window—a goal far beyond her previous sales.
Jamie Kern Lima [18:00]: “I wiped my makeup off on live television, showed my bright red, bumpy skin... We were a few minutes in and... at the 10-minute mark, this giant sold out sign came up across the screen.”
Against all odds, Jamie and her team achieved a monumental success, leading to the exponential growth of IT Cosmetics and ultimately, its acquisition by L’Oréal for $1.2 billion.
Lessons on Resilience and Trusting Oneself
Jamie’s story is a testament to the importance of resilience and unwavering self-belief. She underscores that rejection is not a reflection of one’s potential but often a redirection towards greater achievements.
Jamie Kern Lima [25:00]: “No one else’s doubt gets to define your destiny. No one else’s no gets to define your yes.”
She advises graduates to trust their inner voice, stay true to their purpose, and persist through setbacks. By doing so, they can unlock their true potential and make a meaningful impact.
Conclusion: Embrace Your Power
In her closing remarks, Jamie reiterates the central question: “What will you do with the power that is you?” She challenges the graduates to harness their unique strengths and pursue their true calling with passion and determination.
Jamie Kern Lima [26:00]: “Imagine what case study could one day be written about you and imagine what would happen if you made the decision right now to fully believe that you have what it takes to make it happen. Because you do.”
She leaves the Class of 2025 with a heartfelt encouragement to trust themselves, embrace their uniqueness, and pursue their dreams relentlessly.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
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Jamie Kern Lima’s Opening [00:00]: “Imagine if one tool that's a simple question to ask yourself every day can transform your confidence, your self belief and your entire life.”
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On Overcoming Self-Doubt [10:30]: “I chose to create a solution for my skin condition, leading to the birth of IT Cosmetics.”
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The QVC Success Moment [18:07]: “At the 10-minute mark, this giant sold out sign came up across the screen.”
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On Rejection and Destiny [25:00]: “No one else’s doubt gets to define your destiny. No one else’s no gets to define your yes.”
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Closing Inspiration [26:00]: “Imagine what case study could one day be written about you and imagine what would happen if you made the decision right now to fully believe that you have what it takes to make it happen. Because you do.”
Key Takeaways
- Self-Belief as a Catalyst: Trusting in one's own power and abilities can transform challenges into opportunities.
- Resilience in Adversity: Persisting through rejection and setbacks is crucial for eventual success.
- Authenticity Over Conformity: Embracing and showcasing one’s true self can redefine industries and set new standards.
- Impact Over Impression: Focusing on making a meaningful impact rather than seeking external validation leads to lasting success.
- Harnessing Inner Strength: Regularly questioning and reaffirming one’s purpose reinforces confidence and direction.
Final Thoughts
Jamie Kern Lima’s speech serves as a powerful reminder that each individual holds immense potential. By overcoming self-doubt, trusting one's inner voice, and persevering through challenges, one can achieve remarkable success and inspire others along the way. Her journey from a struggling waitress to a billionaire entrepreneur exemplifies the transformative power of self-belief and resilience, offering valuable lessons for graduates and listeners alike.
For more insights and resources shared by Jamie Kern Lima, visit JamieKernLima.com/Show.