On this show, Jessica Flayser, and her various guests, will cover both the essential life advice you NEED to hear and the unconventional opinions you WANT to hear. You’re guaranteed to find yourself moved; whether it be to laughter, tears, agreement or anger. “J. By Day” is the true voice of The Concrete Jungle.
In this episode, Jessica is joined by up-and-coming photographer and model Jeffery Caspen. The two discuss how being a native New Yorker impacts one's mindset as a creative, as well as the challenges of rising in a field that has become quite saturated in recent years. Jeffery speaks on his passion, goals, and experience as a self-taught artist and imparts some of his learned lessons to the audience. The conversation is both raw and embracing, and listeners will enjoy feeling like a fly on the wall of two city kids sharing their thoughts.
In this brief episode, Jessica gets personal about her experience maintaining a podcast and shares her revelation, after hosting multiple seasons. The issue of hustle culture and leisure time are discussed as she explains the new pace for the show. Listeners can expect to find a glimpse of what future episodes will bring in the New Year.
On this episode, Jessica interviews rap artist "F.R.E.D." in an effort to gain more knowledge of the energy and attitude behind creating original rap music. The two share their opinions on hip-hop emerging from New York, the importance of your surroundings, and how they impact one's creative process. F.R.E.D. also gives insight into his writing style and gets clear on the differences between the genres of hip-hop we know and love in New York City.
On this feel-good episode, Jessica sits down with her friend Zoe to discuss side hustles and being multifaceted. Zoe, an elementary school teacher, entrepreneur, and avid learner, gives advice on how she balances all of her interests and makes them profitable for her; not just monetarily but also yielding personal lifestyle gains. The two young women share their thoughts on unity and prioritizing quality and balance over relevance and busyness in this lighthearted, though heavy-hitting episode.
In this episode, Jessica interviews her Muay Thai trainer, Coach John. The audience gets the opportunity to hear from a New York City local about what it takes to successfully operate a martial arts training business, as well as the challenges it brings. Coach John sheds light on a craft that has been popularized and making waves in the fitness industry for the past several years. Time management, clienteling, and post-covid business strategies are discussed, along with tips on how to stay motivated in your fitness journey.
After a lengthy break from recording episodes, Jessica returns to her audience with big news: the release of her first book Beach, City, Villages. In this episode, she explains the challenges of the writing process and discussing some otherwise overlooked aspects of her novel. Listeners can expect to learn more about the creative process writers often go through, as well as learn more about Jessica and her perspective on self-publishing and overcoming a negative inner voice.
On this episode, Jessica continues with the series with acclaimed jewelry designer, Melanie. The two discuss her brand, "MMNYC Studio", and the values that played a part in its creation. The audience also receives in-depth and heartfelt advice on education, going away for school, the impact of international travel, and the Chinese manufacturing process. The story behind MMNYC Studio is just as unique as its creator.
On this episode, Jessica is Joined by Lenn; a young entrepreneur from Queens, NY. The two discuss the birth of her innovative sunglass label, "ShadyLenns", as well as business tips for small business owners. Having started this brand with her significant other, Lenn removes doubt from the longtime saying "don't mix business with pleasure", as we learn her partnership has worked great, and her hobby for collecting sunglasses has opened the door to wisdom and knowledge in her life. It's a must-listen!
On this episode, Jessica interviews Elsa Mutoba, author of the French thriller "Derniers Souffles". Elsa shares her experiences emigrating to New York from France writing across two languages. The two discuss the highs and lows of the writing process, self-publishing, "e-books or real books", and more. As always, there are many laughs in between.
On this episode, Jessica begins the "What Inspires You" interview series by interviewing a South African based makeup artist, Leanne Roux. The 2019 NYX Face Awards winner gives an account of her journey from being a student to becoming a multi-faceted makeup artist. The two give important advice on succeeding in a competitive field and compare the South African and American experience in the beauty and cosmetics industry.
In this episode, Jessica gives a brief summary of what listeners can expect from the second season of J. by Day. Some may be surprised to hear that the show is taking a different approach, in contrast to the "get to know me" approach taken in season one.
On this episode, Jessica gives a self-critique of the season and its reception from the listeners. There is also, of course, talk about the current state of quarantine and the lack of social distancing in The South during this time.
On this episode, Jessica is joined by “GOAT Talk” Youtuber, Ben. The two discuss the difficulties and opportunities that come along with openly subscribing to a certain faith in the modern workforce. Their individual stories and experiences will be surprisingly relatable and at times questionable. Above all, the talk will shine a light on how these two crucial elements of people’s lives relate to each other.
On this episode, Jessica will discuss what it takes (financially, emotionally, and socially) to move & find an apartment in NYC. She is joined by a friend and Atlanta native Chy, CEO of Nine/12 Interior Design Studio. She’ll also be giving tips on budgeting, go-to websites, and breaking down whether or not a realtor is necessary. The two also give necessary live advice and tips on how to stay true to yourself in the concrete jungle.
Inspired by the 2015 Documentary "Fresh Dressed", Jessica speaks her mind on the relationship between music and fashion as ways of expression and classification. She discusses music in relation to issues of stereotypes, religious subscriptions, and other lifestyle influences.
On this episode, Jessica is joined by upcoming recording artist Aya (TanMoscato) and her “Music Encyclopedia” best friend Iyana. The trio discusses the current state of music, their likes and dislikes, as well as the importance of music in human life. Jessica’s opinionated guests give a balanced take on the Urban music scene and represent much of the New York community in doing so.
On this episode, Jessica breaks down the “scientific” terms for popular enhancement surgery. She also explains her longstanding interest in cosmetic surgery, the stigma behind it, and how it has evolved in popular culture. Her views on the controversial topic are likely to surprise listeners who are not exposed to plastic surgery in their daily lives.
On this episode, Jessica is joined by two long-time friends and former co-workers. The trio reminisces on the company the worked for, all the while giving valuable advice on entering and SURVIVING retail and the SoHo/downtown NYC life in the fashion industry. Their chemistry makes for an entertaining and laughter-filled talk about life as a sales associate in New York.
On this episode, Jessica will discuss the furloughed workers, the stimulus package, unemployment, resume building, and the benefits of in-person job hunting. As expected, she shares a story-time about her experience with attempting to switch industries, sharing the valuable experience with a humorous twist.