WWJD is a phrase most of us know — but for me this year, it’s taken on a new meaning: What Would Jess Do. From the moment we moved to Tampa (and honestly, even before we got here), Jess has been my go-to for all things local. She helped us find doctors, schools, hair stylists, even a Botox lady — and somehow still managed to make me feel instantly at home. More than her wisdom, though, it’s her warmth that stands out. Jess welcomed me into her circle from day one, making space at her table when she didn’t have to. We all need a friend like Jess — the kind who makes you feel like you’ve known her forever. After this interview, I know you’ll love her just as much as I do.

Play-by-play in the transcript below, or click here to catch the recorded livestream

How Did You and Xavier Meet?

Jess: We met in 2011 in West Palm Beach. My best friend basically forced me to go to a game while Xavier was in Single-A with the Cardinals. She told me I should send him a friend request on the old school dating app — Facebook — so on a whim, I did. He responded on my wall saying, ‘Do I know you, pretty girl?’ We talked on Skype for three weeks and then finally met in person — and the rest is history.

Engaged in 2015, married in 2016, and moved to Korea in 2017.

Whenever you have doubt, just trust the plan and trajectory that God puts in place for you – you can’t miss what God has for you if you stay open and obedient to the course he has placed you on

What Was It Like Dating A Baseball Player?

Jess: I was very big on not living together while we were dating,” Jess says. “For two years I worked in sales and property management — fifteen days on the road, then four days off. That schedule actually let me meet Xavier on the road every other weekend. Let’s just say I racked up a lot of airline miles.

Both You and Xavier Had Major Opportunities Come at the Same Time. Can You Walk Us through that?

Jess: I had just pitched a new sales role to my company’s CEO — a position I dreamed up myself — and they accepted it! But a few months later, Xavier got the offer to play in Korea. I made the decision to put my career on hold so we could step into that next chapter together.

Was that decision hard to make?

Jess: At first, yes. They gave us three days to decide and it just felt too big to rush. Around that same time, we attended the PAO (Pro Athletes Outreach) conference and spoke with other couples in baseball. Their stories shifted our perspective.

We called the team back to say yes, but the spot had already been given away. Then, the next day, another player was traded and a spot opened up for Xavier. It was clearly God’s plan. The wildest part? All this happened the week of our wedding. We were standing there, smiling, knowing we were moving to Korea — but we couldn’t tell anyone yet because the deal wasn’t official!

Did you make the right choice in going to korea?

Jess: It was the best decision we’ve ever made. I absolutely loved it — if someone asked me to move back today, I’d sell everything and go. We went in with the mindset that God has planted us here, and we wanted to be fully rooted. I made friends, went to coffee, explored, hosted dinners… it was honestly amazing.

What was it like having your first baby in a foreign country?

Jess: I went in with zero expectations. At the end of that first season, we found out I was pregnant with Zeke. 

I found a doctor who spoke English — she was actually a season ticket holder for the team –

and she went above and beyond to help me have a safe, healthy pregnancy. It was a beautiful experience, and I’d do it again.

What are your top recommendations for someone visiting Korea?

Jess: Oh my gosh, you have to go to Seoul or Busan! Seoul reminds me of New York City — super clean and crazy tech-savvy. Busan is more like Miami, but you can get there in just two hours on the bullet train. Definitely stay at The Park Hyatt if you can, and don’t miss the Coex Mall. It’s unreal.

What does life look like for you guys after baseball?

Jess:

In June of 2020, Xavier ruptured his Achilles — right in the middle of COVID — and at that point, the only baseball being played was in Korea. Two weeks later, he got this random call from ESPN asking if he’d come on to talk baseball. He absolutely crushed it and has been in sports broadcasting ever since.

It’s crazy because we had no idea that saying ‘yes’ to Korea all those years ago would end up leading us here. We’re still seeing the fruit from that one decision.

Okay, rapid fire! Heels or sneakers?

Sneakers, all the way

Netflix binge or night out?

Netflix, 100%

Favorite late-night snack?

Goldfish, Oreos, and milk

Must-have in your purse?

Airpods

Walk-out song?

“The Man” by Aloe Blacc

Go-to baseball game look?

Oversized vintage tee, mid-rise wide-leg black jeans, and sneakers!

Jess’s story is one of faith, courage, and connection — a reminder that sometimes the best opportunities come when we say yes to the unexpected. Her openness, friendship, and unwavering trust in God continue to inspire everyone lucky enough to know her.