bienvenidos!
I’m Jessica...
entrepreneur. business & creative executive. mama of one. part-time superhero. world traveler.
animal lover. vegetarian(ish). sports fanatic. hip-hop head. apple pie fiend. gym attendee.
There's always a reason not to... Do It Anyway.
I’m a mother, entrepreneur, and creative designer, but to be perfectly, bluntly honest with you, I’m still figuring out what I want to be when I grow up. So, I’m applying the concept of a gap year (or two or three) to my life, and taking a break from the day-to-day grind of what has become a normal existence in the United States to Eat, Pray, Gym my way across the globe, chasing clarity, connection, and a little bit of chaos, on a journey to find a greater sense of self, fulfillment, and peace.
I started this blog as a means to chronicle this latest adventure: paying off debt while traveling the world and improving my mental and physical well-being. Along the way, this blog has become part travelogue, part therapy session, and part budget spreadsheet with trust issues. You’ll find the cities I visit, the money I save (and spend), my day-to-day life, and my neverending drive to be the best version of me (spoiler: it’s a work in progress).
The writings reflect who I am in real life: a sometimes sarcastic, mostly intelligent, often boring, always working, extremely blunt, and slightly obsessive #OGMILLENNIAL just trying to carve out her place on this crazy, messed up, perfectly imperfect planet. I strive to be honest, I speak my mind, I cuss, and I am unapologetically me. If you’re into truth over polish, growth over perfection, and laughing through the breakdowns—welcome to the show.
“Travel is not a reward for working, it’s an education for living.
just a few
personal and
career highlights
Freelance Designer
Since starting my freelance design career in 2019, either directly or through business relationships, I’ve had the pleasure of working with dozens of companies, brands and individuals to bring their vision and goals to life.
Major Works: Nautica, Various NFL, MLS and Premier League Teams, Alivecor, Choice Hotels, XR Health, Harley Davidson, Mixhalo, ZUP Watersports, Gladiator Watersports, Texas Humane Legislation Network, Velocity Ammo, Buydeem and more.
Industries: Professional sports, major retail, technology, healthcare, non-profit sector, law firms and other professional services, major hotel brands and more.
Podcasts & Interviews
- When is it time to go from side hustle to full time? Featured on The Self-Made Designer Podcast
- Scaling and Pivoting in Uncertain Times: Featured on The Call Me Crazy Podcast
- Investing in Jessica Hagmaier the Website Goddess: Featured on Investing In Yourself: The Digital Entrepreneur Podcast
- Real Talk with Jessica Hagmaier – Motherhood & Business: Featured on the Entrepreneur Talks Podcast Podcast
- How to Break the Rules in Order to be Successful: Featured on the Hype Girl Cat Podcast
The fuSHion Magazine
Founder/Editor-in-Chief of an award winning print and digital magazine in publication for almost five years.
Interviews included: Wiz Khalifa, Bun B, Freddie Gibbs, Amar’e Stoudemire, DJ Ill Will, Joseph Addai, C Murder, Big Krit, DJ Mr. Rogers, Lil Flip, & Visanthe Shiancoe. (2007-2011)
Named Online Magazine of the Year
Southern Entertainment Awards – 2011
Ozone Magazine
Served as the Interim West Coast Editor-In-Chief for three months.
Interviews Included: Three Six Mafia, David Banner, One Block Radius, Colby O’Donis, Daz Dillinger, 2 Pistols. (2008)
More than Football
At the end of 2018, I assisted a former NFL Player in bringing his More Than Football YouTube Docuseries to life.
Brand Development: Website design and development, name creation, marketing strategy and content creation, creation and design of sponsor proposals and media kits.
General Operations: Managed and scheduled staff, talent and videographers; ensured sponsor value was delivered; day-to-day operations and tasks
Project Production: Interviewed players and trainers for use in series; worked through final edits/production with videographers, producers and operations team; oversaw promotions.
Personal
2018: Graduated from University of Texas at Arlington – Bachelors of Science: Emphasis in Business and Marketing
2016: Graduated from Houston Community College – Associate of Arts
High School Athletics: Volleyball. Basketball. Track.
Track: Placed 9th in Europe for Triple Jump and 2nd for Sprint Medley (2000).
Basketball: Named to every All-Tournament Team (5+), as well as KAIAC All-Conference. Recorded multiple double-doubles and even one triple-double (2003).
I'm alway open to new collaborations with brands, podcasts and other creatives.
Whether you’re a brand looking to reach a vibrant, engaged audience or a fellow creator with a unique vision, I’d love to explore how we can work together to create something exceptional. While my blog primarily focuses on using travel as a means to enhance mental health and financial well-being, I’m eager to connect with brands and collaborators who are passionate about making an impact in their own way.
Every product featured on this site is something I use and love regularly, and I’m committed to working with and representing brands that align with my values and passions.
Interested in working together? letswork@gorjesswanderlust.com
“
“I don't value money...
I value the freedom it affords.”
Let's Connect:
Instagram:
@_thejesseffect
Questions & Collaborations:
letswork@gorjesswanderlust.com
