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

Hi Jessica, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
If you don’t see yourself at the table, build your own. I can’t echo this enough as it can apply to anyone regardless of your career stage. I struggled to associate my aspirations within a ‘dream’ position, company, employer, etc that I saw my peers chasing. I was confident in my passions and rooted in my confidence, but couldn’t identify what was next for me.

After starting my podcast around mental health & music, I was aligned in my purpose and realized I could work at the intersection of music & philanthropy — something I was already doing on the side through volunteer work.

Months of market research pointed to a glaring industry gap: a lack of departments or companies elevating client-facing social good. And there was the green light to launch amplify services.

With years of first-hand industry experience, and a decade of non-profit work, why not me? Cliche, but true.. be the change you wish to see.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What do I want the world to know about me and my story? I’d love for the world to see the power in philanthropy. There is so much good we can harness right where we are: in our communities, our workplaces, our friendships. Beyond amplify services, I hope the industry discovers the value of social good in fan engagement, activations, and more. Hundreds of millions go towards NFTs and TikTok budgets, but the ROI of philanthropy cannot be quantified. I’m excited for the next generation to really shake things up and embrace authenticity. They really care about meaningful change and the future is in their hands.

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?
NYC is the BEST city in the world. When friends visit, the first stop is my favorite hidden gem (and also one of my side hustles!), a dog-friendly cafe, Boris and Horton in the East Village. It’s a coffee shop where owners can bring their dogs, and patrons without dogs, can come together and enjoy good coffee, free wi-fi, and sweet pups. Absolutely a must for work-for-home locations.

Recently, my friends and I went to an amazing candle-making class in Chinatown. Lanterne Lab, a AAPI women-owned business allows you to pick out your own scents, hand pour the candles, and customize to your preference! It’s such a fun experience, and something fun to do with friends or date night. I’ll also add if you’re looking for a good sip=n-paint experience, Paint n’ Pour in Lower East Side is incredible – bottomless drinks and great food while you paint!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Dedicating this one to the endless amount of rejection I’ve faced (and will continue to face!) I truly feel those who passed on me only propelled me forward towards where I’m meant to be. It took a long time to believe it but rejection is redirection.

Website: jessicamcdevitt.com

Instagram: instagram.com/jessicaamcd

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-mcdevitt

Image Credits
1st image & 4th Image Credit: Remy Hernandez Jonas Brothers Image Credit – Daniel Zuchnik

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.