Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jalen Fauntleroy. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Jalen, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

Two of the biggest risks I’ve taken were having graduated from college and moving to California during the middle of the pandemic in 2020. In both cases I’d say the biggest risk was allowing myself to go through the fire of the unknown, and getting to the other side of any fears I had. Before graduating from Prairie View A&M University, I began to question what I could expect and the concerns I wasn’t so sure of. But with the courage to push through I better understood my discipline and determination to go after my aspirations. And when I faced the same uncertainty before moving, I knew it was worth worth taking. Not only because I faced the man in the mirror, but because I found conformability in the unknown which encouraged the rest of my journey.

Jalen, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am a rapper, actor, filmmaker, screenwriter and producer whose had a passion for creating since the time I was five years old. I was inspired by family members in the entertainment industry and influenced by other creatives such as Michael Jackson, Tupac Shakur, Quincy Jones, and John Singleton. Taking note of their work ethic is something that’s continued to motivate me, and remain sure of any project I’m working on.

My most recent projects were my EP, “STRONG SELF CARE”, and short film, “GLO I AM”, which I’ve been submitting through the festival circuit. Along with accompanying music videos I’ve written and directed for my individual songs.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

Being on purpose about my destiny and what God’s bestowed upon me within my work. I’ve always had dreams and goals that I wanted as a kid, but it wasn’t until I reassured my own self belief and purpose within that I was able to experience the true reward of being an artist. My gratitude comes from being able to work with the gifts I was born with and cultivate them in the work by being disciplined and open to the process of learning, failing, and always giving my best. Because it’s all building for what I see for myself in the long term.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

From an entrepreneurial and managerial thinking, I’d say the book “Good To Great” by Jim Collins had a profound effect on me when I was in college. During my business courses, it was the first book that really made everything click and understand the levels of leadership and the ability to adapt to your environment. And to have the willingness to evolve in spite of unforeseen change.

The Autobiography of Malcolm X also gave me the same principles, and encouraged me to always trust my instincts and not be afraid to be a free thinker. To read about the way he was able to overcome tremendous obstacles, grow spiritually and as a leader amidst the surrounding dangers of that time, are lessons that I’ll always carry. It taught me the truth must be told regardless of the cost.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://hyperfollow.com/jcf
• Instagram: instagram.com/jcfofficial
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jcfofficial