Jesan Barnes-Kaushik
Philanthropy Officer, KMFA
- What’s something about you that not many people know?
I started out my career life as an opera singer. I auditioned and got many roles that took me all over the country and Mexico. I was in love with this life, but soon realized that I wasn’t able to sustain this life and pay off student loans at the same time. I took smaller gigs in churches and got a full-time job as an insurance agent (just like Charles Ives!). Today, I am student debt-free and get to talk about music all day. Life is funny.
- What was your first job?
I was a babysitter at 12, getting $1/hr per child. With a 4-year-old of my own, I see those days are long gone.
- If you could have dinner with three people – dead or alive, at any time in history—who would they be?
Jane Goodall is number 1. I was lucky to see her speak at the Long Center before she passed. She’s such an inspiration.
Amy Poehler. She’s one of my favorite comedians and has the go-getter attitude I respond to.
Michelle Obama. Enough said.
Wow! What a fun dinner we’d have!
- If you had to pick three musicians for a playlist, who would they be?
Mozart. Always Mozart. Blue October - a local and international group that taps into my soul.
Swell Seasons - from Ireland. Folk music that inspires.
- Favorite book and TV show?
My favorite book is Wicked, The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire. TV show - Happy Endings (2011)
- Most powerful movie you have seen.
V for Vendetta.
- Favorite place in Austin?
This is tacky, but the KMFA studios. I love working here, and there is ALWAYS something going on. A new, local musician, composition, band. I love it. And the people who come through KMFA’s doors are always interesting and have wonderful stories.
- Favorite restaurant and watering hole
For tacos - Vegan Nom. For sit-down – Nori. For drinks - Old Gregg
- What did you want to be when you were growing up?
A performer. A while ago, I asked my parents what they’d think I’d be. They said, “We always knew you’d be in the arts in some way.” I love making people happy, calm, and forget their troubles for a few minutes.
- Which living person do you most admire?
My sister-in-law, Rianta Kaushik. She’s a wedding fashion designer in India, and I’ve seen her start with just an idea 10 years ago. Now, she’s ELLE’s 2025 Wedding Couture Designer of the year. I am so proud of her and her hard work. She’s truly an inspiration for anyone with a dream.
- What makes you happy?
Artists, Musicians, Comedians, Dancers, Actors, etc. Anyone who refuses to be silent when they have something beautiful to say and share.
- Best advice you ever received?
Do what you love, the money will follow - my dad.
