Meet Jessica Tomasin

We were lucky to catch up with Jessica Tomasin recently and have shared our conversation below.

Jessica, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?

I have a quote in my email signature that resonates deeply with me: “If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito.” – Dalai Lama.

I can’t say I discovered my purpose in one single moment. It was more of a realization that even the smallest actions can create ripples of impact. My purpose is simple: to leave the world better than I found it, in any way I can.

Some of the projects I work on are large-scale initiatives—ones whose full impact I may never see in my lifetime. But I also believe in the power of the small, everyday gestures that ground us in connection and kindness. Making eye contact with a flustered stranger to let them know they’re seen. Picking up a piece of trash and throwing it away. Sending a thoughtful text to a friend who’s having a rough day or showing up for them in a way that says, “You’re not alone.”

I believe we live in a world of abundance, and each of us has unique gifts to share. By giving those gifts—whether grand or seemingly insignificant—we create a ripple effect that has the potential to change lives. Never underestimate the power of what feels small to you; it might be deeply meaningful to someone else.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I’m a Jack of All Trades with a passion for connection, creativity, and community. Over the past 19 years, I’ve run Echo Mountain Recording Studio, produced festivals and events for 15 years, taught at both the high school and college level, and worked as a personal trainer.

Right now, my focus is on building a new recording studio, producing my festival—Connect Beyond—and helping my community recover from a devastating geological event.

I live in Asheville, NC, where Hurricane Helene left widespread destruction. While the disaster has faded from the headlines, the recovery effort is far from over. Broken roads, debris, and ongoing challenges remain part of daily life, with many in my community still in crisis.

In response, I’m producing a benefit event, Hell or High Water, on February 22nd in Nashville, TN. The evening will feature a multi-course dinner led by award-winning chef Sean Brock, a performance and conversation with the legendary T Bone Burnett alongside a curated group of his friends, a silent auction, and more.

100% of net proceeds will benefit WNC Tip It Forward, a relief fund providing critical financial support to local artists and food service workers directly impacted by Hurricane Helene.

I’m also preparing for the Connect Beyond Festival, which takes place April 4–6 in Asheville. I believe art has the power to transform communities and fuel social progress, and that’s the heart of the festival. The event features a multidisciplinary lineup of musicians, filmmakers, authors, activists, and innovators. Through live performances, film screenings, interactive workshops, and thought-provoking panels, we aim to inspire meaningful connections and spark lasting change.

We’ll be announcing our incredible lineup soon, and I can’t wait to share what we’ve been working on!

You can find tickets for the Hell or High Water benefit or more information about the festival at https://connectbeyondfestival.com/

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

I often recommend The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz to those just starting their journey. It’s a book worth reading early and revisiting often because, like many things, applying its wisdom is a lifelong practice:

-Be impeccable with your word.

-Don’t take anything personally.

-Don’t make assumptions.

-Always do your best.

Another piece of advice I like to share is simple: ABC—Always Be Curious. Curiosity helps us avoid making assumptions and taking things personally. As we grow older, we tend to lose our natural curiosity, but like a muscle, it can be strengthened with intentional effort. Cultivating curiosity allows us to stay open, learn, and approach the world—and others—with greater understanding.

What is the number one obstacle or challenge you are currently facing and what are you doing to try to resolve or overcome this challenge?

I’m currently grappling with how to balance my professional life with the immediate and long-term needs of my community. I have work—actually, multiple jobs—that pay my bills and are deeply meaningful to me. But at the same time, I see an urgent need around me: people are cold, and people are hungry. I want to help. I want to raise money for propane heaters for those in temporary housing and spend time prepping meals for organizations like Blunt Pretzels, who are feeding people every day.

Beyond the immediate crisis, I want to contribute to long-term recovery efforts. I want to help rebuild a community that is not only stronger but also more just and equitable. I want to play a role in addressing climate concerns at a local level, knowing that events like this are becoming more frequent—something we’re witnessing not just here, but across the country and around the world.

At the same time, I have a personal life—a partner, dogs, and friends I want to spend time with. I love being outdoors, reading books, writing, and making music. These are the things that feed my soul, but they often feel like luxuries when there’s so much work to be done.

I know life balance is a universal struggle, but for me, this feels like uncharted territory. The challenges others in my community are facing are so immense, and my desire to help is so strong, that it’s difficult to know how to prioritize or where to start. It’s a humbling, overwhelming, and yet feels deeply human, if that makes any sense.

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