Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jessica Burns. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Jessica, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on happened just a couple of weeks ago, right after the tornado hit St. Louis. It really hit home. My best friend, my son, and I went out to help clean up the neighborhood, but the more we saw, the more I felt this community needed more than just cleanup. They needed comfort, nourishment, and a reminder that they weren’t alone.

That’s when I reached out to my best friend, La’Asia Stith, founder of Vibes 88.8 SD Radio. Without hesitation, she offered her radio van, which we transformed into a mobile kitchen and distribution hub. I prepped 100 meals through my business, JRB’s Digital Café, and we handed them out to families and volunteers affected by the storm.

But it was more than just a food drop it was a moment of care, community, and connection. We passed out warm meals, encouraging words, and genuine love. That experience reminded me why I built this business: to feed more than stomachs to feed souls. It wasn’t about business. It was about being of service. And for me, that’s what made it truly meaningful.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Hi, I’m Jessica Burns—Chef Jess—and I’m the founder of JRB’s Hospitality Company LLC, which houses JRB’s Catering, What’s Cooking with Chef Jess (my cooking classes), and JRB’s Digital Café, a community-centered food initiative. I’m based in St. Louis, MO, and I’ve dedicated my life to culinary arts, hospitality, and helping people feel seen, nourished, and celebrated through food.

I’ve been in this industry for over a decade, with a background in culinary arts and hospitality management. I originally got into this work because food was always a safe space for me. It brought people together. It healed. It celebrated. I wanted to turn that passion into a purpose—and now a full-time business. After years of working in foodservice, managing cafés, and juggling a 9-5, I finally took the leap to build something that aligned with my spirit, values, and community.

What I Do:
• Catering for events, corporate functions, brunches, and intimate gatherings
• Cooking classes for kids, adults, and families—fun, hands-on, and designed to build confidence in the kitchen
• Meal prep and grocery shopping consulting, especially for busy professionals and families with dietary needs
• Culinary consulting—helping other businesses with menu development, costing, and hospitality training
• Community outreach through JRB’s Digital Café, which focuses on feeding people in need and using food as a bridge to connection

What sets my brand apart is that I lead with intention and soul. I don’t just cook—I connect. I don’t just teach—I empower. Whether it’s a kid learning to cut their first veggie or a corporate team learning to collaborate through a cooking workshop, I bring my full self into every space.

The problems I solve:
• I help busy people eat better and feel better—without the overwhelm.
• I help families bond over meals and build skills that last a lifetime.
• I support underserved communities with food and resources.
• I bring joy, professionalism, and flavor to every table I serve.

What I’m most proud of:

It’s not just the dishes I’ve served—it’s the lives I’ve touched. From feeding tornado relief volunteers to guiding a mom and son through meal prep routines that work for their ADHD needs, every moment of impact matters. I’m proud to be building a business that feeds the whole person—mind, body, and heart.

At the end of the day, I want people to know this: JRB’s isn’t just a brand—it’s a movement rooted in food, family, and faith. I’m here to feed people, teach people, and remind them that food is love.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding part of being a creative—especially in the culinary space—is seeing how food becomes a bridge. It connects generations, tells stories, and creates memories. Whether I’m teaching a cooking class, prepping meals for a family, or catering a special event, I get to watch people light up, feel cared for, and bond over a shared experience. That kind of joy is unmatched. It’s not just about making food—it’s about making people feel seen, valued, and loved through every bite. That’s the magic for me.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

Absolutely. My mission is to nourish more than just plates—I’m here to nourish people’s lives. Through JRB’s Catering, my cooking classes, and community projects like JRB’s Digital Café, I’m building a brand that feeds the mind, body, and spirit. I want to empower people—especially women, parents, and underserved communities—to feel confident in the kitchen, in their health, and in their hustle. My ultimate goal is to create a legacy of love, leadership, and liberation—using food as the tool and service as the heart.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Jrbsdigitalcafe
• Facebook: JRB’s catering