We had the good fortune of connecting with Genine “G9” Alexander and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Genine “G9”, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I have always wanted to be in the entertainment industry, and have always had an equal love of hearing people’s stories. Growing up, I wanted to be an actress. Although I couldn’t sing or dance, my mom, grandmother, and aunt believed I could do it all! I participated in several contests, commercials, and acting jobs. I also loved watching talk shows, such as Ricki Lake and Oprah, but it wasn’t until I saw shows like 106 & Park, and TRL when I realized I could be a talk show host while also being true to my personality. I now realize how these same interests I’ve had since I was a child have all came into play with being a podcaster, host, and content creator. The podcast has shown me that the dream I had growing up was not too far from the reality of where I am today.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Initially, I just wanted to have my podcast, GVibez. Shortly after, I searched for networking ideas to build the GVibez platform. I started seeing women empowerment events on social media, and realized I could get people with inspirational stories together so they can share their experiences. I saw a clip from Issa Rae and she said, “We tend to network up when we really should be networking across.” That inspired me to expand my business by creating Gvibez Presents: The Network Experience, which was first held in 2022, and is now an annual event. The networking experience allows entrepreneurs and 9-5 workers to learn from each other and build with each other within our very on community. It’s all about paying it forward, and helping out the community. If I can’t give back to the community with my personal finances, I always make sure to feed the community with knowledge. The knowledge is shared in one of three ways: through my podcast, by attending The Networking Experience, or just by simply having a personal discussion with me. I am constantly working on how I can do better, and I am always hoping to inspire others to do better for themselves as well. The more I study the craft of interviewing others, I learn something new from everyone I speak to, which adds to my personal development. I help the community by being true to myself and by showing others they can stay true to who they are and succeed as well! I also help the community by hosting annual turkey drives around the holiday season, and by donating to other charity events when possible. I am proud to say I am making a positive impact in my community, while also following my dreams during the process. Knowing that I am being true to myself and accomplishing goals that will better myself and the space around me brings a sense of happiness that is hard to explain. Truly proud of myself and the daily growth towards the woman I am becoming.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We’ll start off by visiting a community event since Los Angeles is known for having great flea markets, farmers markets, pop up events, etc. By visiting these events, we’ll be able to support black owned businesses, have food, drinks, shopping, music, and great vibes overall. These are usually all day events, and are so much fun! We’ll also enjoy live music from different up-and-coming artists at Sweet Serenade located in DTLA. I find L.A to be a “go with the flow” city since there is always something fun to do.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to shout out my family, friends, boyfriend who support me an all my 1000 ideas lol. I truly appreciate you all. Also, to everyone who don’t personally know me but supports my podcast, my events i appreciate you too! Special shout to unspokenviews on suggesting me for this series. Shout L.A I THANK YOU as well for this opportunity and for creating this series for the community, Truly appreciate the love and support.
Website: Gvibez.squarespace.com
Instagram: __gvibez
Facebook: Genine Alexander
Youtube: __gvibez
Image Credits
Louis Hamilton