Meet Jessica Bauerkemper | Yoga Instructor

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

Hi Jessica, alright, let’s jump in with a deep one – what’s you’re definition for success?
I would define success as living in such an authentic way that your contributions positively impact the world around you. It’s easy to associate successful financial endeavors, public accolades, or achievements with success, but I don’t think that’s accurate. Humanitarian efforts and efforts to improve the good of those you impact can’t be measured in dollars. Public service, emphasis on health and wellness can cost zero dollars and that is why I chose to become a yoga instructor. It’s an honor to be a part of someone’s physical, emotional and spiritual journey. In a world fascinated with money, prestige and power there’s a lot to be said for authenticity and personal peace. It takes mastery of autonomy and discipline to show up truthfully. I think it is important to be yourself in a world that tells you you’re not enough, or socially unacceptable. A person’s success has little to do with wealth and status and everything to do with looking in the mirror and really liking the person staring back at you.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve been singing in front of people for as long as I can remember. I was in piano and voice lessons throughout my childhood years and went to Western Nebraska Community College in Scottsbluff, NE on a vocal music scholarship where I learned so much. Our chamber choir performed The National Anthem for the Rockies and Padres game in 2001 and that summer I played Rizzo in “Grease” for the regional theatre in Scottsbluff. I’ve been in numerous plays and also directed “The Glass Menagerie” at 26 in Sidney, NE. I’m currently fronting Roger Dodger on vocals, a rock and roll band out of Scottsbluff. I’ve written numerous original songs and enjoy collaborating on music. I have the pleasure of working with young people on developing their songwriting skills. Coming from a small town there’s a lot of challenges in terms of limitations on opportunities and resources. I travel to Colorado often, which is a short drive, to work with other creatives. I also have had a wonderful experience with Jarrod Headley at North Park Studios in Colorado Springs. He produced a track for me a few years ago and it was an absolutely wonderful experience. He’s an incredible talent. Nothing ever comes easy. Hard work, grit, determination and really knowing yourself is how you make things happen. No one gets to tell you who you are but you! Evolution and growth are paramount in achieving your goals.

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?
When I travel to Colorado, which I do often, there’s several different places I enjoy. I recently stayed at The Origin in downtown Westminster and had the most fantastic experience at Famille. It’s a scratch kitchen inside the hotel and the food is absolutely phenomenal. The staff is just amazing. I would absolutely recommend catching a show at any of the venues. I’ve never had a bad experience. So many great musicians come through the Denver area. I used to work at Hard Rock Denver before they closed and was fascinated with the 16th Street Mall. It was such an incredible experience and one of the BEST work environments I have encountered. I’ve also spent a lot of time in Colorado Springs and thoroughly enjoy the Garden of the Gods. I love nature and I find this to be a healing and tranquil place. When I’m in the Springs after a shoot, you can often find me at the Trainwreck which is an incredible sports bar. Great staff great food great atmosphere.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to give a shout out to Chaz Wheeler of After Six Photography in Colorado Springs. I had very little experience in front of the camera before I began working with him. Not only is he a true artist, but he allowed me the space to feel truly at home in my own skin. We did some fun yoga shoots and I’ve been able to be a part of some really cool projects because of our work together, so thank you!!! You always reminded me of who I was, even when I forgot.

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Image Credits
Photo credits: Chaz Wheeler for After Six Photography, Ty Armstrong for Elixr Magazine and Katlyn Massey.