About Jill Monson
I am incredibly proud of my reputation, known for being genuine, loyal, and full of zest for life. One of my greatest strengths (some call it my superpower) is being a natural-born connector. I’ve been told that people leave conversations with me feeling more energized and inspired than when they arrived and that truly fills my heart with joy...
…After a near-death experience in 2020 (ask me, and I’ll share the story), I made the conscious decision to design the life I truly wanted. That decision led to the creation of POP_!_more, where I bring my passion for empowerment, connection, and creativity to life.
Entrepreneurial & Marketing Expertise
POP_!_more isn’t my first entrepreneurial adventure. I previously founded Inspired Marketing, a successful, award-winning full-service marketing and event planning agency. My team and I worked with clients across diverse industries including home improvement, financial services, higher education, IT, fuel services, and even firearm manufacturing.
Currently, alongside POP_!_more, I’m proud to serve as the Associate Director of Marketing for the amazing team at Chikmedia, where I continue to apply my marketing strategy, brand storytelling, and event planning expertise.
My career has also included roles with the American Cancer Society, MGM Springfield, and serving as a radio personality on stations including 94.7 WMAS, Rock 102, and Lazer 99.3.
Passion for Community & Giving Back
Community engagement and giving back fuel my soul. Over the years, I’ve supported nonprofits focused on early education, domestic violence prevention, food insecurity, and health and wellness. I’m also proud to be an original board member and co-Vice President of the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield (YPS).
Educational & Professional Development
My educational journey took a unique path — I skipped my senior year of high school to attend Holyoke Community College, earning an Associate of Science in Communication. Later, I completed a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media Studies at Westfield State University, followed by an MBA in Entrepreneurial Thinking and Innovative Practices from Bay Path University.
As a lifelong learner, I’ve also earned a Major Gift Fundraiser Certificate from Veritus Group Academy, and completed several LinkedIn Learning Certificates, including:
Overcoming Cognitive Bias
Working with Personal Strengths & Weaknesses
Enhancing Productivity
Powerful Prioritization
Awards & Recognition
I’m honored to have received numerous awards and recognitions throughout my career, including:
Ad Club of Western MA Creative Award
BusinessWest 40 Under 40 Award
Better Business Bureau (BBB) Marketplace Ethics Award
Western MA Women’s Magazine’s “Top 25 Women to Watch in Event Planning”
Western MA Women’s Magazine “Visionary Achievement” Award
Life Beyond Work
My favorite chapter is my personal life. I share my historic 1895 home with my amazing (and patient) wife, Jen, along with our three beloved rescue pets — Max (dog), Vinnie (dog), and EJ (cat). When we’re not dancing in the kitchen, catching a movie, or spending time with our awesome nephews, you’ll find me on my beloved front porch — coffee in one hand, book in the other, soaking up life’s beautiful moments.