#GIRLBOSS SPOTLIGHT: JESSICA BARNES
Written by: Kabrea Thomas
It’s Women’s Herstory Month, and there’s no better time to celebrate and give flowers to the incredible women I’ve had the honor of connecting with.
Queuing the spotlight on Jessica Barnes — a 3x author, host, fashionista, and so much more. She embodies what it means to lead with purpose, passion, and presence.
As #GirlBosses, we carry light, love, and a responsibility to uplift one another. I’m truly honored to share this spotlight with Jessica and celebrate all that she represents.
Kabrea Thomas: You are known for being the first multicultural host for Radio Disney? What was that experience like? What were some challenges that you faced and were able to overcome?
Jessica Barnes: First of all, I don’t think I’ve ever really shared how I even got the opportunity with Radio Disney. At the time, I was already pursuing a career in broadcast journalism and thinking about ways I could give back to my community. That’s when I came up with the idea for a “Prom Princess” giveaway, where I would donate prom dresses to inner-city schools. While trying to promote the event, I found a Google listing for the Radio Disney offices in New York and reached out to their production department hoping they might help spread the word. They actually turned me down, but the woman I spoke with told me to stay in touch. And I did. I emailed her every Friday just checking in. Eventually, one day she responded and asked me to audition to be a Radio Disney host in New York. That moment taught me something really important: I didn’t approach Radio Disney looking for a job. I approached it with the intention of serving my community, and the opportunity found me along the way. One of the challenges during that time was that it was around 2012, when digital media was really beginning to shift the industry. Podcasting and new platforms were emerging, and traditional radio was starting to feel uncertain. It was a moment of transition in media, which made the experience both exciting and challenging. But it also pushed me to stay adaptable and keep evolving with the industry.
KT: What was your process like writing The Adventures of Susana: Number’s Book? Where did your inspiration come from?
JB: The process was honestly beautiful and very personal for me. The Adventures of Susana series really began in 2018, and it actually started with a dream. I had a dream about my little brother, who we lost to leukemia. In that dream, it felt like he planted a vision in my heart to write children’s books as a way of giving back to kids, especially those who are battling or have battled cancer. I wanted the books to honor his memory and spread joy and encouragement to children going through difficult moments. The process was very hands-on. I started by writing all my ideas and character concepts on paper. Little by little, those notes evolved into the world of Susana. Eventually, that vision turned into a full series, and I self-published three books. Seeing those ideas grow into something tangible that could inspire children was incredibly rewarding.
KT: You often highlight the importance of family, style, and travel in your life. Is there a favorite destination you’ve traveled to with your family, and how did that trip influence or reflect your sense of style?
JB: I had actually visited Japan before as a solo traveler, but experiencing it with my family was completely different. The trip brought us closer together. We learned so much about each other, connected spiritually, and appreciated how special it was to explore the world as a family. Japan also deeply inspired me stylistically. The fashion there is incredible. The craftsmanship, the attention to detail, and the pride people take in how they present themselves is truly inspiring. That really influenced how I think about style—not just as fashion, but as a way of expressing respect for yourself and the world around you.
KT: How would you describe your personal day to day style?
JB: My day-to-day style is definitely oversized streetwear. I love pieces that feel comfortable but still make a statement. For me, style is about confidence and ease, being able to move through your day feeling authentic to who you are.
KT: As a power couple, you and Castell collaborate on everything from interviews and podcasts to branding. What does your process look like when it comes to working and creating together?
JB: Our process is very collaborative because we both understand each other’s strengths. I’m very strong when it comes to creative ideation and visualizing concepts. I love coming up with ideas and bringing them to life visually. Castell is also great at ideating, but he brings a strategic lens to everything. He has a talent for taking creative ideas and helping turn them into structured, profitable business opportunities. Together, we balance each other. I bring the creative vision, and he helps refine it strategically. That combination has allowed us to build things together that are both creative and sustainable.
KT: Would you say your partner also serves as a mentor to you? If so, what does that mentorship look like in your day-to-day life or career?
JB: Absolutely. My husband is honestly my go-to motivator and mentor. I feel incredibly blessed to have such a thoughtful and inspiring person as my partner. He has a strong sense of leadership and knowledge across so many areas—from business and finance to politics and global issues. I always joke that he’s my living, walking Google search engine. What inspires me most is how naturally he connects with people. He has a way of seeing the bigger picture and offering guidance that helps me grow not only professionally but personally. I’m constantly learning from him, and I’m grateful to have someone like that in my corner.
KT: You’re an entrepreneur, a wife, and an incredible bonus mom. What are some of the values or life lessons you hope to instill in Kennedy as she grows up?
JB: The biggest thing I want Kennedy to know is to love and value herself fully. The world will sometimes try to tell you who you should be, especially as a Black woman. But if you truly know who you are, you won’t need validation from anyone else. I want her to know that she deserves to take up space, to walk confidently in her purpose, and to never shrink herself for others. And above all, I want her to always put God first in everything she does. When you lead with faith and self-worth, everything else begins to align.
KT: In a previous Couch Session, you mentioned that in your 20s you wish you had focused on one thing you were really good at and built your network around it. What advice would you give to someone who has multiple passions and doesn’t necessarily want to focus on just one path? How can they navigate that process while still building a strong network and identity?
JB: I truly believe it’s okay to have multiple passions. Many creative people are naturally multi-dimensional. The key is learning how to anchor those passions around your core purpose. Even if you explore different paths, ask yourself: What is the common thread in everything I do? For some people it might be storytelling, creativity, leadership, or service. Once you identify that core strength, you can build your network around that foundation while still exploring different outlets for your passions. Your career doesn’t have to be one straight line, it can evolve.
KT:In a world driven by social media, where it can sometimes be difficult to tell what’s authentic and what’s not, what are some networking tips you’d give to people trying to build genuine connections and opportunities?
JB: Social media has changed how we connect, but I actually think people are starting to crave more real, human interaction again. One of the biggest networking tips I always share is simple: reach out. So many people hesitate because they assume everyone else already has it all figured out. But the truth is, people appreciate genuine curiosity and humility. Don’t be afraid to approach someone and be a student. Ask questions, learn from others, and build real relationships. Networking isn’t just about exchanging contacts, it’s about building meaningful connections with people who can inspire and grow with you.
Be sure to follow Jessica, and stay up to date on the Couch Sessions!
