Meet Jenae’ Hope | CEO of Home Stretch Productions

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jenae’ Hope and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jenae’, have you ever found yourself in a spot where you had to decide whether to give up or keep going? How did you make the choice?
We often hear the term “Trust the Process” but I learned first hand that is extremely hard to do. What happens when you’ve adopted systems or a “process” that typically works for others but not for you? What happens when you are doing the work, giving your best, and still aren’t seeing results? We can’t pretend as if it’s not difficult to stay on the path less traveled. In moments of weariness, I’ve learned to simply trust the pulse of the dream. Reality is tricky. Sometimes we have a hard time seeing past our current circumstances but as long as the pulse of your dream is still thumping, it is alive and should be trusted. We may have to pivot, or change tactics, but in order to justify quitting, one would have to come to terms with attempting to conquer something for all the wrong reasons. If your intentions are in the right place, there’s no need to give up. I don’t believe God gives us dreams to torment us. If it’s in your heart to do, it was placed there for a reason. You simply can’t quit. You never know how achieving your dreams will position others to achieve theirs as well.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m an actress, a writer, and a producer! It hasn’t been easy but what I’m most excited about is my new journey as CEO of my company Home Stretch Productions. I finally have full control over my trajectory. and the stories I tell. As Showrunner of my very first series, Soul Ties, I’m navigating the pressures of doing things on my own! While it is fulfilling, it is also challenging and I am learning the importance of having a solid team who’s not afraid to get their hands dirty! Behind the scenes of this series, there are so many moving parts but it’s an exciting time because we are all determined to do it and do it well! I want the world to know that it is my life mission to only create things that will benefit everyone involved. I never want to create from a place that only benefits me!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If you’re a seafood lover like me, you definitely have to stop by Hot N Juicy! If You’re into BBQ, Bludso’s is the place to be! When I’m in the mood for a chill night with a scenic view on a dope roof top, I head over to E.P & L.P. I actually think Silver lake is a super cute area full of interesting art and tasty eateries. However, if you’re looking to chill, Zuma Beach in Malibu (on a weekday) is full of vibes you don’t want to miss!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have to give a huge shoutout to one of my acting coaches, Raquel Gardner from The Actors Mark. Upon arriving to LA, she took me under her wing and worked with me brick by brick as I honed my craft. Raquel, affectionately known as Rocky, was one of the first to call out my potential and encourage me to embrace my gifts. I quickly learned the importance of mentorship. Most recently I’ve had the opportunity to join the #Startwith8Hollywood Program created by Cheryl L. Bedford. In this program, successful industry executives/creatives take on 8 striving Women of Color and help set them up for success in the realms of writing, producing, & show running. I also cannot forget the BIPOC Next Generation of Producers Mentorship Program which has been walking me through the world of producing step by step. As you can see, I’ve been busy! Each of these programs have provided me with stellar mentors who have really been instrumental in my current trajectory. I am so grateful for the guidance.

Instagram: @jenaehope_

Twitter: @jenaehope_

Youtube: arayofhope

Image Credits
Shandon Photography