Claire Jason has always had her eye on the prize. She has a laundry list of impressive accomplishments that are a reflection of being inspired at a young age. Born in San Antonio, Texas, with her father in the military, she is just one of six siblings who dreamed of being a psychiatrist or lawyer. The latter came to fruition because of one moment during her impressionable high school years in Japan when she met a military lawyer. Now, as an associate magistrate judge, a wife and mother of two, she offers sage advice to other young dreamers, “Don’t drop everything to pursue a dream … research your vision first.” These are wise words from the judge who happens to also be the muse behind husband, Daniel C. Jason‘s denim line for curvy women, PZI Jeans. At 52, she looks back at her trials and successes, sharing her educational route and sound advice for big dreamers. –rachelle gauthier
As a young girl, what did you dream of being?
My dad was in the military so we traveled a lot. We weren’t wealthy, but we sustained. The household was challenging and tumultuous. My dream was to be successful so that when I had children, I would be able raise them in a peaceful and loving environment. I knew I wanted to achieve what no one in my family had achieved: to become a psychiatrist or a lawyer.
When did you know that you were destined to be lawyer?
I met a military lawyer and was impressed with his accomplishments. I knew then, I would be a military lawyer. I was told that I was outspoken, intelligent, argumentative and well rounded; all the attributes needed to be a lawyer. I was determined to be the first lawyer in my family and to make a difference in the legal field. After I graduated from high school in Japan, I went to LSU. After graduation, I applied to Southern Law School and a few other law schools. I chose to remain in Louisiana and attend Southern University Law School. After law school, I joined the U.S. Army and became a JAG officer in the Army.
How have the adversities you’ve experienced shaped you?
The dysfunction I endured as a child taught me as an adult to be strong and independent. I have been able to stand and overcome each challenge as presented through faith, coupled with having the support of my family and a few close friends.
In addition to being a lawyer, rolling out has heard that you were a muse; the inspiration behind PZI jeans.
My husband invested in a junior denim line about 12 years ago, when low rise jeans were trending and dominating the market. I became involved when we realized that women like me, with fuller hips, rear and a streamlined waist were not able to wear them. I joined PZI Jeans as the VP and creative director and assisted him in expanding the concept of the brand to encourage real women to embrace the beauty of their shapes. I was instrumental in creating relationships with Mary Mary and LisaRaye; real women with real curves. Although I am no longer involved in day-to-day operations of PZI Jeans, I believe that I added a personal and sentimental element to the brand.
Having an idea and birthing it can be daunting. What advice do you have for big dreamers?
Don’t quit your day job. Research your vision to find what, if anything, makes your idea different. Volunteer to work with a business similarly related to your vision. Work, study and learn. Pay off a majority or all your debt, saving enough money to sustain yourself for at least two years. Keep working your day job as you slowly step into your vision. I am pragmatic. Bills have to be maintained and being an entrepreneur will consume so much of your time and energy. Be in a position to protect yourself, your family and your finances.
