If there's one thing about Jess Sims, it's that she's going to show up — fully, joyfully, and unapologetically herself. The Peloton instructor [1] and ESPN reporter somehow juggles early morning workouts [2], cross-country travel, and sideline interviews with a smile that could power a stadium. But what really sets her apart isn't just the hustle; it's the heart she brings to everything she does. "I'm in a season of my life where I'm really prioritizing being present — being where my feet are so I can enjoy the moment," Sims tells Popsugar. "So when I'm at Peloton, I'm at Peloton, and the members are the only things that matter. When I'm on the road for ESPN's College Gameday, I try to take advantage of whatever site we are at to learn as much as possible."
That mindset carried her through what she calls one of the biggest highlights of her career so far: working the Little League World Series. "It was like summer camp," she says. "Spending 12 days with 12-year-olds was so much fun because I got to hear their stories and watch their dreams come true . . . I felt like a kid myself." It's that mix of playfulness and purpose that makes Sims so magnetic.
Even with a packed schedule, she finds time to care for herself in ways that feel good and sustainable. Lately, she's been leaning into red light therapy [3] ("I've been doing it for years — it helps with recovery and brightens my mood") and fueling up with Ka'Chava [4], a brand she's recently partnered with. "I love getting creative with it," she says, noting how she swaps smoothies for cozy, protein-packed oats in the colder months. Ahead, Sims shares the must-haves that keep her grounded and ready for whatever's next.
Jess Sims's Affordable Must Have
When you're constantly on the go, good sleep is nonnegotiable, and Sims has found the travel hack that keeps her rested anywhere. "I love my Dreamegg Portable Noise Machine [5] ($19, originally $20)," she says. "I'm in hotels every week, and sometimes they're loud in the hallway or on a major highway, so a sound machine is a must! This one's rechargeable, portable, and has some great sound options."
Jess Sims's Investment Must Have
For someone who's always hopping from studio to stadium, a reliable travel bag is key. "This Mason Desabre The Weekender bag [6] ($549) changed the game for me," Sims shares. "It fits everything, it's sturdy, the leather is soft and durable, and it keeps its shape. Plus, it fits perfectly on top of a roller suitcase without tipping over."
Jess Sims's Morning Routine Must Have
Sim's mornings are all about intention . . . and a little glow. "After I walk my dogs, I make my coffee, do my red light meditation, then I put the Martini Beauty 360 Caffeine Eye Lift Mask [7] ($3) on as I make and sip my Ka'Chava Superblend Shake [8] ($70)," she says. "It makes me feel good from the inside out." As a Ka'Chava partner, Sims loves getting creative with the brand's plant-based blends — from refreshing smoothies in the summer to cozy, protein-packed oats in the cooler months.
Jess Sims's Nighttime Must Have
When it's time to wind down, Sims reaches for comfort. "I love a cold room with this weighted Nodpod Gentle Pressure Sleep Mask [9] ($38) and this Comfytemp Weighted Heating Pad [10] ($30, originally $32) to help me relax," she says. "It's like a warm hug and gets me ready for my sleep meditation, and I average over eight hours of sleep, so take it from me."
Jess Sims's Travel Must Have
Between red-eyes and early mornings, Sims has her travel wellness routine down to a science. "I always have Lypo–Spheric Vitamin C Packets [11] ($40, originally $43) on every flight so that I don't get sick; they don't taste great, but they do the trick," she says. Her other on-the-go staples? Tower 28 Mini Facial Spray [12] ($12) — "the reviews are real, y'all! It helps with skin irritation and redness and feels so refreshing after a flight.
Haley Lyndes [13] is a shopping writer and editor with more than seven years of experience in the publishing space. Specializing in home and lifestyle, she covers everything from furniture and mattresses to beauty products and fitness gear. Her writing has appeared in BuzzFeed, Travel + Leisure, and Real Simple.