Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Ridley
Hi Jessica, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I began my journey in Alberta, Canada, where I was drawn to music, songwriting and an innate love for creativity and self-sufficiency. After winning a reality show thirteen years ago, I moved to Nashville to pursue a music career, but my path quickly expanded into many other passions. From starting a piano lesson studio that I’ve cherished running for over seven years to releasing two albums and headlining several venues and corporate event bands, music has remained close to my heart. My entrepreneurial spirit, however, has led me to explore beyond music. I began developing wholesome, handmade products and teachings inspired by a lifestyle of intentional, earthy living. This journey wasn’t just about creating, but also about building connections and guiding others. My businesses, from Flower Power Breads & Blooms (sourdough classes and organic teas) to my pet supplement line, Jenesis Pets, reflect my dedication to natural, nurturing products, homemaking, and creating things that genuinely improve people’s lives.
Alongside my business endeavors, I’ve been on my own wellness journey, taking charge of my health through nutrition & spirituality and finding peace in the process. Today, I’m more intentional than ever, committed to expanding my businesses in ways that help others find peace, health, and joy. I envision a future filled with abundant plants lol, maybe some backyard chickens and plenty of songwriting retreats and traveling with my music and message. I’m intentionally building a life that I hope will inspire others to live with joy, balance, and purpose.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I would say definitely not, as I’m sure most others would. There is a popular meme going around showing what people hope success will look like – a straight diagonal line, ever-increasing – but it usually ends up looking like a million squiggles and backtracking that slowly trend upwards over the course of years! Being from Canada and working for my green card and then eventually, to become an American citizen was definitely one of my greatest challenges and my citizenship was realized in July 2022. I have made so many mistakes along the way but I can just constantly see God’s hand, weaving them beautifully, into the tapestry of my life and making me the person I am today. I wouldn’t change a thing but I am very glad to be through some of those harder life lessons. I would say the biggest one I’ve learned is to trust myself! I think I fell for the lie early on, that I needed outside help perpetually; that someone was coming to save me eventually and if I spent enough money, my path would magically open up. The truth is, I have what I need inside of me and it’s truly just a matter of following my inspiration and then following through with small, “next right steps”.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My primary work is as a musician, singer-songwriter, and performer, and music has been the heartbeat of my journey. I’m proud to have had incredible opportunities, from opening for artists like Luke Bryan and Lady Gaga to headlining shows on Nashville’s Broadway and with the 12 South band. Winning *The Big Time* on ABC in 2011 was a definite turning point, helping to launch my career and connecting me with audiences across the country and overseas in the UK. One of my proudest and most fulfilling moments was performing live I front of 17,000 people at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. We also reached number 62 on the Billboard charts with my single, *Flaming Red,* a song co-written by my now-husband, Dennis Patton & Bob Carlisle. It’s been thrilling to see that song resonate with so many people, and performing it on big stages has been a huge joy and honor.
I think what sets me apart is that beyond music, I also embrace a passion for homemaking and natural living, which has led me to create a few side businesses like Flower Power Breads & Blooms and Jenesis Pets. These pursuits let me share the simple, nurturing practices I love with others, and bring a sense of balance to my life as an artist. Ultimately, whether on stage or in my other ventures, I’m driven by a desire to create, connect, and inspire, bringing my heart to everything I do.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
I see massive shifts coming for the music business! Just like the film industry, AI continues to threaten our livelihood . I’m not against AI but I do think that over time, true creativity will be snuffed out and devalued to the point where people can no longer making a living by sharing their art. This is why I am glad that I have other avenues of income and fulfillment that I am passionate about!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jessicaridley.com
- Instagram: @thejessicaridley
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/thejessicaridley
- Twitter: @jessicaridley
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JessicaRidley
- Other: https://www.jessicaridley.com/flowerpower
