The JSM Channel — Jodi Sta. Maria's next act

One of the shows under the channel, ‘Let’s Drink to That’ — which Sta. Maria co-hosts with online personalities Cheena Crab and AC Soriano — will be all about joy and gratitude.

Jodi applies this same determination to all her undertakings, as she wonderfully demonstrated again this week with the grand launch of her latest labor of love —

Jodi 2 - Jodi Sta. Maria calls the channel an answered prayer, revealing that the idea for such a comprehensive online presence had been sitting with her for years, waiting for the right time. 

The JSM Channel, an online platform that reflects her evolving passions and purpose.

The JSM Channel is an online platform that reflects the top-caliber actress’ evolving passions and purpose. PHOTOS FROM THE JSM CHANNEL

Held at the elegant Novotel Tent in Araneta City and featuring a host of health, wellness, and lifestyle activities, The JSM Channel is definitely more than just a revamp of Jodi's existing YouTube channel, as she likes to say. Instead, it marks a major transition for the A-list celebrity into the digital sphere, signaling a shift in her focus from television and film to a more personal and interactive platform.

To be clear, Jodi Sta. Maria has not left acting. But obviously, this is where her creative energies are devoted for now, following her announcement at the conclusion of her hit teleserye "Lavender Fields" in January that she is taking a pause from film and TV for the rest of the year.

"Hindi talaga ako puwedeng mapirmi" ("I just can't stay still"), Jodi said with a guilty giggle when The T-Zone reminded her during the Q&A that everyone had assumed she was simply taking a break from work. "Even before Lavender Fields ended, this was already in my plans since I've always been the kind of person who's constantly thinking, 'What do I do next?'"

What makes this bold move even more surprising is seeing Jodi enter such a personal space. For years, she has gracefully navigated media attention, never having to explicitly set boundaries on what she was willing to talk about in her private life. Her poise and thoughtful responses had always made it clear where the line was, allowing her to maintain a level of dignity that has eluded many stars of her caliber. Going full throttle into YouTube — a platform that thrives on deep personal engagement — is certainly unexpected.

Naturally, the T-Zone's next question for Jodi was how much more of her life she was willing to share now.

Gracious as ever, Jodi clarified that while The JSM Channel is a space for inspiration, learning and connection, it is not about exposing every aspect of her private life.

"Just because you're on YouTube, it doesn't necessarily mean you just open the book and say, 'Hey guys, come on and read. This is my whole life,'" she explained. "No, it's not going to be like that. What you're going to see is still me — parts of my life, not my whole life, but parts that I genuinely hope will bring something positive — whether big or small — to others."

At the heart of The JSM Channel are three carefully crafted shows, each reflecting a different side of Jodi's interests and values.

"Live Light" is her take on mindful living — wellness, self-care, and navigating life with purpose. It allows the well-loved celebrity — who happens to be a voracious reader and armed with a psychology degree — to reflect, share personal insights, and bring in subject matter experts to discuss meaningful yet sometimes uncomfortable topics. The goal, she says, is to create a safe space where viewers feel heard and supported.

The second show, "Let's Drink to That," is all about joy and gratitude. Co-hosting with online personalities Cheena Crab and AC Soriano, Jodi says she aims to celebrate even the smallest victories in life in this segment.

"We just want people's faith in humanity to be restored," she said. "For them to realize that there is something to celebrate every day."

The concept is poised to be a refreshing antidote to the often overwhelming news cycle of chaos and controversy and a place where positivity takes center stage.

And then there's "JSM Travel & Tours," which merges Jodi's love for adventure but with a deeper sense of purpose.

For the insatiable traveler, this part isn't just about ticking destinations off a list. "We don't just want to explore; we want to give back," she shared.

The show, therefore, aims to uncover hidden gems in the Philippines while also extending a helping hand to communities in need. In other words, it's travel with heart — an experience that leaves an impact both on the traveler and the places visited.

As Jodi went through the different concepts of The JSM Channel, she revealed that the idea for such a comprehensive online presence had been sitting with her for years, waiting for the right time.

"This is actually an answered prayer," she shared. "Sometimes, life gives you so many reasons not to do something. But you have to fight that. Even if your head is telling you, 'You're not ready, you can't do this.'"

As this piece said from the start, it is this mix of conviction, faith, and a never-ending desire to grow that makes Jodi Sta. Maria who she is. She is, after all, no stranger to reinvention — whether as an actress, a psychology graduate, a mother, or now, a full-on content creator.

Indeed, every time this beautiful lady steps into something new, she does so with thoughtfulness and heart, ensuring that it's not just another project but something that leaves a meaningful mark.

Officially streaming on March 4, it is safe to say that The JSM Channel will be more than just entertainment, even if does star one of the industry's most compelling leading ladies. It's about evolving, inspiring and exploring — the three pillars Jodi has carefully chosen to define this new chapter in her life. And if there's one thing we've learned from her over the years, it's that we can trust she never does anything half-heartedly. We should all be in for a treat, and a meaningful one at that.

Here's to the digital sphere's newest trailblazer. Cheers, Jodi, and best of luck!