Jess DeBakey is an East Coast raised, Chicago based podcaster, marketer, and sometimes-comedian. She co-hosts Not For Everyone, a comedy-meets-self-help podcast about the things we all feel but rarely say out loud, and hosts Peaking, where she interviews women entrepreneurs about the low moments that sparked their best ideas. Trained in standup at The DC Improv and Chicago’s Lincoln Lodge, Jess brings sharp humor and candid perspective to every story she tells.

The First Time is a live lit and music series recorded at Martyrs’ in Chicago’s North Center neighborhood. Each reader tells a true first tale, followed by a cover of the storyteller’s choosing, performed by our house band: The First Time Three.

The First Time is hosted by Jenn Sodini. Executive producer is Bobby Evers. Assistant producer is Celina Dietzel. Podcast produced by Jim Mulvaney.