Today we’d like to introduce you to Jess Carolan.
Hi Jess, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Hi! My name is Jess Carolan—I’m 25 years old and was born and raised in Kansas City. From a young age, I was drawn to a life that blended creativity and adventure. I was always inspired by off beat life paths and spent my time crafting, working on odd projects or off exploring the local woods.
I eventually moved to St. Louis to attend Webster University, where I approached scholarships like a part-time job. That strategy paid off—my education was fully covered, giving me the freedom to dive deep into my passions. During college, I explored art through every extra credit I could find and launched my first art business, vending at local fairs and events. During my time at Webster I also got involved in community garden volunteering and amnesty international work!
That chapter also sparked my love for travel. I’d study hard during the school year, then take off during spring and fall breaks—and when summer rolled around, I’d pack up my little SUV and hit the road for 5+ weeks at a time, living and sleeping out of the back as I crossed the country.
After those years of studying and passion-building, I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies and Human Rights—and a much clearer vision for the kind of life I want to live: one rooted in creativity, love, and adventure.
Soon after, I found an old, rusty 1995 GMC Vandura camper van on Facebook Marketplace and slowly transformed it into the perfect long-term travel rig—with the help of my knowledgeable family members. While settling back into life in Kansas City, I focused on working, saving, making art, and building community, all while continuing road trips in my SUV and progressing the van build.
Over the past year, I’ve been traveling in that van, documenting my journey on TikTok (@jessssthenomad). I’ve also branched into travel journalism, writing about my adventures for ROVA magazine, available online and in stores like Barnes & Noble and Walmart. When I’m not on the road, I spend my time making pottery, creating multimedia art, gardening, foraging, and skating!
Now, my goal is to build a flexible, fulfilling career that allows me to continue traveling part of the year while deepening my roots in Kansas City. This fall, I’m launching a life and health insurance business as a way to build a career that supports the lifestyle I’ve always dreamed of—one rooted in connection, community and freedom.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. One of my biggest challenges has been learning how to live with anxiety and move past the limiting beliefs that used to hold me back from expressing myself as an artist and diving into travel.
From a young age, I struggled with anxiety—whether the situation was big or small, I struggled to feel… okay. By the time I graduated high school, my anxiety had become chronic. Even the smallest step outside my comfort zone could leave me feeling completely unregulated and untethered.
For a long time, I hoped it would just go away on its own, like a phase of puberty coming to an end. But eventually, I had to accept that if I wanted to live the life I wanted, I couldn’t wait for the fear to disappear—I had to bring it with me.
That mindset shift was hard at first. My first solo trip was honestly a disaster and left me questioning whether I was even capable. But I kept stepping outside my comfort zone, again and again, especially through solo travel. Slowly—without even realizing it at first—I became more courageous and confident than I ever imagined I could be.
As I continued to grow, express myself through video and art, and say yes to new experiences- the grip anxiety had on me began to loosen and it eventually vanished. I now show up in the world with a sense of freedom and alignment I once thought was impossible.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As a creative, my work is rooted in a deep passion for the magic that surrounds me. My primary medium—and what I’m most known for—is ceramic art. I especially love sculptural ceramics, though I still find myself spending plenty of time on the wheel these days!
What sets me apart—and what I’m most proud of—is the expanse of my creative skill set. I’m a jack of all trades and proud to call myself a multimedia artist. In addition to ceramics, I enjoy drawing, painting, jewelry-making, beadwork, organic sculpture and decor, furniture renovation, crocheting, and collage. I love combining mediums and exploring how my different hobbies interact with each other. Whether it’s pairing photography with writing, sculpting with found natural materials, or blending handmade elements into functional art, I’m always inspired by the creative possibilities that emerge when disciplines overlap.
I love to make others creative visions come to life through commissions and i am always open to collaborating to clients to make customized work! You can explore more of my art on Instagram at @jesscarolancreative
Another creative outlet I love is photography and videography. I enjoy crafting videos that capture the beauty around me and inspire others to appreciate it—and to live with passion and curiosity. I share much of this work on TikTok (@jessssthenomad), where I document my travels and hobbies.
Writing is another passion of mine, and I’ve been grateful to see my work published in ROVA magazine—often accompanied by my own photography.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
As I continue building a life rooted in creativity, freedom, and connection, I’m excited to be expanding into a new chapter—offering life and health insurance to individuals and families across Missouri and Kansas. If you or someone you know could use a trusted resource to help navigate your insurance needs, I’d love to be that person.
Whether it’s through art, storytelling, or service, my goal has always been to support others in building lives they love. Feel free to reach out—I’m happy to help however I can!
Pricing:
- Mushroom Pendant $15 (necklace or earrings))
- Moss Wreath $30
- I happily take commissions (flex pricing)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://rovamag.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jesscarolancreative and https://www.instagram.com/jesss.carolan/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jess-carolan-01b5b4371/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@jessssthenomad
