Meet Jannely Espinal

Today we’re excited to be connecting with Jannely Espinal again. If you haven’t already, we suggest you check out our prior conversation with them here.

Jannely, always such a pleasure connecting with you and thank you for sharing your stories, insights and inspiring messages with our community. We’re looking forward to getting the download and what you have been up to since our last interview, but first can you briefly introduce yourself to folks who might have missed the prior conversation.
Hi Miamians! I am your friendly East Coast neighbor and trend detective, Jannely. I’ve been a journalist for the past 7 years and it’s been a journey. Like any venture, this one has come with challenges, pivots, and economic topsy-turvy. But despite the roadblocks, I always kept a main-character mindset for my life, and made that character’s ending a happily ever after. Currently, I am the commerce writer for TODAY (if you’re an early morning viewer, you know) and I focus on fashion writing. But before that role, I was a rehab counselor helping individuals in the mental health industry, while turning glossy pages during my lunch break and wishing I was ‘That Girl’ walking the streets of New York City.

After many freelance opportunities, free work, blogging at night, and a master’s degree in fashion journalism, I found my dream job. Overnight success is not real and it takes years to see your vision board bloom. Though Google identifies me as a purpose-driven journalist, my title doesn’t define the full spectrum of my career and penchant for fashion history. Miami is where I trained my storytelling skills and NYC polished my knowledge. But in simple terms, I am an investigator with a mission to discover the evolution of style, a collector of bespoke fashion and a discoverer of untapped talent. I love writing stories from brands and people who share a unique ethos, while curating style videos during my off-duty hours.

Today I can sit in front-row seats at fashion shows, meet with celebrities, network with other fashion pundits, and write about what I love. But, most days I am testing footwear, interviewing experts and reviewing the latest product launches from brands. When I am not on the fashion frontlines, you’ll find me discovering hidden gems around Miami and NYC, or finding a rare book at my favorite Florida or NYC bookshop.

Alright, so our main goal today is to give our audience an update on what you have been up to since our last conversation. We’d love to hear how things are going and what you are most looking forward to or excited about these days.
For the past three years, I’ve been writing for Shop TODAY and it’s been an exhilarating experience. I’ve written about trendy news, met with top talents, traveled nationwide, attended exclusive events, and modeled on the TODAY Show. But the opportunity to create visual storytelling gets me the most excited these days (aside from opening another UPS or FedEx package). I enjoy good video content and those cinematic moments when you can connect with the audience.

That’s why I spend my Sundays researching fresh ideas, neighborhoods and hidden spots to share with my audience on Miami Hidden Gems and NYC Hidden Gems. Creating an itinerary of activities and entertaining videos inspires me and breaks my jaded routine. Plus, who doesn’t love discovering new ways to spend time on the weekend?

We also want to give folks a chance to get to know you a bit better so we’ve prepared a fun lightning round of questions. Ready?

Favorite Movie: The Breakfast Club

Favorite Book: The Essence of Style

Favorite TV Show: Riverdale (most people don’t like this show).

Favorite Band or Artist: Lane 8

Sweet or Savory: Savory. But if I had to choose sweet it will always be ice cream.

Mountains or Beach: Mountains because I can hike. But I love the beach too.

Favorite Sport (to watch): Men and women’s basketball

Favorite Sport (to play): Tennis

Did you play sports growing up (if so which ones): Not really. I was always running away.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up: An archeologist.

French Fries or Onion Rings: French Fries with mayonnaise, always.

Chuck Rhodes or Bobby Axelrod: Neither. I am not much of a TV girl.

Favorite Cartoon growing up: This is stuff! Hey Arnold. Powerpuff Girls, Dexter’s Laboratory. So many to choose.

Favorite Childhood movie: Matilda. It’s a classic.

Favorite Breakfast Food: Plain or chocolate croissants with a cup of cappuccino or matcha latte. But currently, I’ve been doing protein smoothies.

What would the perfect day look like for you? Please give us as many details as possible.
Every day can’t be perfect but you can make each day memorable. However, if you really want to strive for perfection, a perfect day involves two ingredients: a productive activity and a joyful moment. Lately, I’ve been into mindful activities, such as journaling, painting, and meditation, and every day I try to include one into my routine.

Whether I’ve had a stressful day or have a bunch of unchecked tasks, I try to give myself minutes of zen. Sometimes I go for a walk or enjoy a 30-minute skincare routine. On the other hand, productivity will get you closer to your goals and dreams.

So, I include productivity and pleasure as part of my perfect-day formula. One helps me keep up with my daily habits and the other provides a peaceful respite. I’m grateful that I’ve had perfect days like that, days when I’ve started publishing a story and afterward I am enjoying a spa experience with a full food menu and a glass of champagne. The cherry on top? A bouquet of roses at my doorstep. Now, that’s a perfect day for me!

Website: https://www.today.com/author/jannely-espinal-tdpn233977

Instagram: journalistajannely

LinkedIn: justjannely

Image Credits
Bryant Betancourt
Wellington Guzman