We recently had the chance to connect with Jessica Fagin and have shared our conversation below.
Jessica, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: Would YOU hire you? Why or why not?
I would hire me in a heart beat! I’m dedicated, loyal, customer service driven, and a bit of a workaholic. I’m sure Gen Z hates people like me, but when I enjoy what I do I don’t want to stop. That said, I will take days off to be there for my family when needed, so I can’t be expected to work 24/7.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Jessica Fagin, franchise owner and operator of Gymboree Play & Music of Southlake since 2020, and founder of Texas Tiny Tycoons Network: Businesses for Families since 2024. I receive my college degree in psychology from SMU where I also minored in international studies and prepared for a teaching certificate. My professional journey includes over a decade of managerial experience, including with the Gymboree clothing store, and a lifelong commitment to working with children in both paid and volunteer capacities. As the founder and social media administrator of Texas Tiny Tycoons, I actively share opportunities, vendor events, expos, and nonprofit initiatives with our members, and remind them to support one another. I’ve recently branched out to share some of this information publicly via Instagram, while keeping our Facebook page for for business-focused matters among members. My goal is to foster a strong, supportive network and expand our reach through in-person events and online presence.
Beyond my professional endeavors, I serve on the PTO Board at one of my children’s school and am a member of the Catholic Church. I enjoy reading, learning, traveling, and helping others. My husband of over 20 years, a museum curator, and I are raising two daughters, and former Gymboree students, in Dallas County.
Gymboree Play & Music is unlike many other child development classes or play places. We have a:
–Legacy of Learning & Play – We’ve been a global leader in early childhood development for over 45 years.
–Proven Curriculum, Backed by Research – Every class is designed with early childhood experts to provide the best developmental benefits.
–Warm, Welcoming Atmosphere – We create a safe, inclusive, and fun space for both children and parents to thrive.
–Flexible, Unlimited Play – With unlimited makeups and Open Gym access, families enjoy maximum flexibility.
–Place to Grow, Together – We’re not just a play space—we’re a community where families connect, friendships form, and little ones flourish.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
My grandfather, who raised me, was central to my work ethic. He began working as a young child on his family farm, held various other jobs, and eventually became a partner with a consulting firm. He had to travel a lot for work and often would come home late, but he was 100% present during family holidays, vacations, and made sure he attended my performances and other special events. School was more important than me working in high school or college, but he also supported my extra curricular endeavors, and let me choose my own career path. When I struggled in math in college he even went so far as to get a copy of my text book (I was here in Texas while he was in Georgia) and did the work to check my answers. It showed he really cared.
When you were sad or scared as a child, what helped?
As I mentioned before, my grandfather often traveled and I naturally missed him. My grandmother would get one of my puppets and use it to talk to me. I don’t remember exactly was said, but I’m sure it made me feel better. She was always there for me to comfort me and find little ways to cheer me up, whether it was with a favorite meal, small present, or just a shoulder for crying and a warm hug.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief you used to hold tightly but now think was naive or wrong?
I used to think The Bible was meant to be followed without question, but as I’ve learned and studied I don’t think that’s possible. First, you have the fact that translations can be incorrect, then there’s the fact that much of it was probably verbalized first like a game of telephone, and you know how those games end. Then you have to consider the cultural context of the time, slang words, beliefs of the time, etc. And then The Bible is different based on your specific religion, which further complicates matters. I’ve come to see it more as a guideline than the literal word, and at the end of the day I try to just be a good, kind person.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
I can be found literally dancing at work, just ask any of my team members or customers. I’ve been blessed to never need a job I hated just to have an income, and Gymboree Play & Music is truly my happy place. I look forward to coming to spend time with the families, watch the little ones experience new activities and meet new milestones, and have fun with my employees and their families, too. I annoy my teens when I start singing our songs at home, but I can’t help it, it’s ingrained in me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.gymboreeclasses.com/en/locations/TX/Southlake/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gymboreeclasses_southlake/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gymboree-play-music-of-southlake
- Twitter: https://x.com/GPMSouthlake
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089122064994&mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/gymboree-play-and-music-southlake-southlake
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_DDIVrThEiaQw65748cDWA
- Other: Preview Reservation Form: https://forms.gle/sQq9vzdQrExSNux39
Party Reservation Request Form: https://forms.gle/nwvRzHYmEFqTazkc9
Image Credits
Gymboree Play & Music Home Office
Jessica Fagin
