AETHER Asks: Jaycee Gossett, Founding Teacher of The Class

Jaycee Gossett is a force. As the Founding Teacher and VP of Training and Development at the cult-favorite workout The Class (described as a cathartic experience that strengthens the body and the mind), she has developed a devoted following thanks to her contagious energy and intoxicating spirit. Prior to taking on her current role, Gossett traveled the globe doing competitive dance and hosting the Travel Channel show Dance The Word, which explored the relationship various cultures have with dance. We caught up with the new LA resident (she recently moved to the West Coast from New York) to talk about her new home, The Class expansion, and why AETHER makes sense for her busy, active lifestyle. ↓

Tell us about your career trajectory and history with dance.
Dance was my first love. My mother had me in dance lessons at an early age, and over the years, dance blossomed into different dimensions. Dance grew to be a passion, a practice of self-care, a safe place to process and heal, and eventually a source of income. It gave me a way to express myself that I didn’t know how to do with words. Dance and movement helped me develop physical awareness, emotional intelligence, communication skills, and mental well-being.

You hosted a Travel Channel show, called Dance the World, about traveling the world and learning about different cultures and their relationship with dance—how did that experience change you? While dance is my first love, travel is my second love. This period of my life was magical, life changing, and an incredible opportunity that will stay with me. Dance and music are universal languages that bring humans together. Traveling can push you to break out of routines that may inhibit deeper connection and self-awareness. It invites us to explore beyond what we think we know. ↓

Gossett in the, the and the

How did you get involved with the workout and cult phenomenon The Class? A friend introduced me to The Class, and it was everything. I was hooked immediately and felt it was going to be a game-changer in the realm of fitness. In 2014, I taught my first Class, and it was pretty horrible! It took many, many, many Classes to begin to find my way.

Describe your role with The Class for someone who isn’t familiar. My current role is Founding Teacher and VP of Training and Development. My day-to-day looks like teaching Classes, leading events, collaborating on Class programming, and supporting the growth of the company and the teachers.

What do you think is special and different about The Class? It is such a personal experience for each human and can be whatever you need it to be. There is no pressure to be anything other than real. We offer both intensity and restoration. Aside from the cathartic experience, it’s an incredible workout that incorporates cardio, strength training, mental well-being, mindfulness, self-awareness, community, connection, dynamic meditation, and expression—all set to a curated soundtrack of powerful music. Crying is welcome; sound is welcome; laughter is welcome; you are welcome. ↓

Jaycee selecting flowers at a flower shop

You recently moved from NYC to LA—what prompted the move? We opened our very own Santa Monica studio on Main Street, and I moved here to support the liftoff.

What do you love about NYC and what do you love about LA? Each city and each place has its own personality. NYC is close to where I grew up in New Jersey, so it feels familiar and a big part of my foundation. LA feels expansive, easy, and conducive to being outside every day.

How do you spend your time when you’re not working? These days I keep it pretty simple. Hiking, playing frisbee with my husband and our pup, moving my body in different ways, and spending time outdoors with friends. I enjoy being a student and continuing to study movement, spirituality, self-actualization, mental well-being, and overall health. ↓

Where is your favorite place to travel to and why? Of all the places I have been it’s impossible to pick just one! I highly recommend Cuba, Africa, Spain, France, Portugal, Hawaii, Iceland, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Indonesia, Eleuthera, Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Mexico, India, and Australia. For me, it’s the people and energy of the land that make a place special. I gravitate toward places near water with a kind community, fresh food, music, dancing, and outdoor experiences.

Your husband is a motorcycle enthusiast. Do you ever ride with him? When I met my husband, Adam, he was learning to ride, and I got my motorcycle license for a potential travel-series project that didn’t end up happening. With my career in movement, let’s just say I keep it to walking, driving, and the occasional beach cruiser. When I have ridden with him on his bike, my favorite places are open, scenic roads where the speed limit is under 30 mph! ↓

How does AETHER work into your everyday life? The pieces I gravitate toward are versatile, comfortable, and look chic when you want to be casual and cozy. Comfort is key for me.

Do you have favorite AETHER pieces? The Friday Pant and Lightweight Linen Sweater are my faves. For me, fashion choices start with how I want to feel. What I love about my AETHER pieces is that they feel good. They are perfect when you want to get out of the house without much fuss.

What is the biggest lesson you have taken away from the last few years? Doing what I can to practice being curious, kind, open, and humble with myself and with others.