We had the good fortune of connecting with Jessica Barber and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jessica, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I have always wanted to be a business owner. I have never liked the idea of working under someone else as they build their own dreams. I support other’s dreams and aspirations, but never at the detriment of my own. The idea behind my business was a very real commitment to bettering myself. I took a long hard look at myself and was very honest and I realized that I was neither healthy nor happy. I understand that so many people are plus sized and beautiful and live amazing, fulfilled lives but for me that was just not the case. I began a health, wellness, and happiness journey and invited anyone who wanted to follow along into my world. I wanted to try and help inspire others and to bring awareness to issues that some people may face when they are unhappy with their present selves.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Social media has made sharing your life and story a viable career. I notice often that so many influencers and channels and pages look so similar these days. I have always prided myself in keeping things very real and raw and simple. I will never have the perfect “Instagram house” mine will always be a little disorganized. My filming style is far from professional. But you will always get me, in my real life, just being me. Honesty is paramount to me.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I currently live just outside of New Orleans. When friends and family visit, I love going into the French Quarter and walking Toulouse, Burgundy, Canal, and Bourbon. There are so many cool shops and artists, live jazz in the streets, and the food is unrivaled!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My best friend, Ashton. We began our journey together; our name, Jash Life is a combination of us: Jess + Ash. Ashton has been a sister to me for over a decade. We have been through so many ups and downs of life and weathered some tough storms together. Although we live in different states now, we keep in touch daily and are constant sources of motivation, encouragement, and accountability to each other. Ashton has an infectious laugh and we crack each other up like no one else can! I can’t imagine my life without her and I truly miss being able to film with her.

Instagram: Jash.life

Youtube: www.YouTube.com/c/jashlife

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