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

Hi Jackie, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
“You have so much light the plants grow towards you” is my all time favorite quote. I first read it on Tumblr back in 2015 and since then it’s been in my bio, it’s been my motto, it’s something that I write down when I’m feeling uncentered. In 2015 I lost my grandfather and while dealing with the heartbreak that brought, I also had to deal with a different kind as well. I felt like I was losing the parts of myself that I adored and then low and behold while browsing through the chaos that is Tumblr at 3AM on a work night this just stood out. It was everything that I needed back then and a reminder today that I have accomplished more for myself than 21 year old me could have ever imagined. I can only hope that each time I share it someone else feels the same spark that I did, and still do.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is in crystals, herbs, cleansing, and the moon. I create easy to follow rituals and spells to help manifest things like abundance or protection or self-love. I also am a writer. It’s something I have always been good at and found that sharing my words and my thoughts or experiences on social media helped me and others feel less alone. There are more of us out there going through the same things than we think. My brand started as a pass time and has now turned into something much bigger. It’s been challenging in many ways but I always take the lessons for what they are. I want the world to know that following your dream isn’t crazy, no matter what anyone says. If it brings you joy and it brings you peace, why not do it? Don’t ever let the fear of judgement hold you back from what you are being called to do.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If you come to Miami you HAVE to visit our beaches. Personally, Haulover is it for me. The clearest, bluest, most amazing waters and not too big of a crowd on most weekends. I’m a big fan of beer and food so for me eating at place like Kush in Wynwood would be laidback and fun, plus, right after we could explore the Wynwood Walls and Art District. Everyone loves a good Instagram picture aesthetic! To come here and not experience a night out would be crazy. I would definitely make sure to check out a few spots in Los Olas and DT Ft. Lauderdale for good music and a little bit of dancing. Few things can compare to breakfast from Vicky Bakery– croquettas, pastelitos, cafe con leche, tostadas. The whole nine!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I wouldn’t be anywhere near where I am right now if it wasn’t for the love and support and cheerleading from those closest to me. I am so extremely thankful to have a lover who supports my every dream, best friends who share my content and love my content and make sure I feel special, and a mom who never lets me forget my worth.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themoonlistens/

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