Meet Jessica E. Brandon | Actor | Screenwriter | Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jessica E. Brandon and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Overall, I am a Creative. I love to tell stories that resembles life which is not always so pretty. To date, I am most proud of a pilot script that I’ve developed entitled Carmen’s Jones, which has gained some momentum since circulating it around development execs. I am super confident that this pilot is needed and will be well received.

Outside of favor, I have been able to achieve what I have and to know who I know because I move different. I allow people to feel at ease around me and I always show a level of respect, professionalism and kindness/joy to those around me and my environment. In all interactions, we leave a footprint. I want to ensure that mine is is not to be mistaken with others.

Nothing about my journey in using my gifts to pursue my purpose was easy. I always tell my clients (I coach new actors on industry knowledge and etiquette) that every creative’s career and journey is built on Hope; from the Executive producer down to the P.A. (Production Assistant). You hope that your film is a blockbuster hit, one hopes to get funding for their next film. I hope the next project will make me a household name. What you ground yourself in as you are on your path will determine whether or not the waiting game is just a little bit more tolerable. My confidence in the gifts GOD has given me extends my patience. I know what HE designed me for. So I refrain from looking at this journey with a darkened lens.

Some of the lessons that I’ve learned thus far: be kind to EVERYONE. Where one starts out is not where they’ll end. I’ve seen a woman who started out as a P.A. and within about two years become a film exec. Another lesson, be confident and centered when you walk into any room. Lastly, a lesson about networking, when connecting with someone who potentially holds an opportunity, get them to talk about themselves or their perspective. More chances than not, they have go-to answers for repetitive questions, which I call a “script”, but you will stand out among many if you take the time to learn about them and how they feel on a given topic rather than engage in meaningless small talk for your own selfish gain.

I want people to know that I am authentic, bold, intuitive, creative, engaging and a lover of life. That’s what I want to reflect in my work which will reflect in my brand.

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.
I’m not sure if I want to be entertaining any of my friends for a week *laughs*. However, if I must, Thursday, we’d go to a Seafood restaurant for lunch then chill on my patio with wine, cigars and island music. Friday, I would take them to the Hotdog Factory on Piedmont road. They have a super dope happy hour. Saturday, a day trip to the Fainting Goats vineyard in Jasper county would be first on the list then dinner at Hal’s in Buckhead followed by some random speakeasy and dive bar drop-ins. We’ll tell everyone we’re the owners and see how far that storyline takes us. Sunday, we’d do a kickback in the park or gather a few more friends and ‘shoot the hooch’ (floating down the Chattahoochee river). Monday, would consist of bike riding through the city. Later, catching the game somewhere whether NBA or NFL. Tuesday and Wednesday, we’d bike ride again and go around to shoot content: shorts and skits. If my best friend’s visit needs more entertainment than that then she should’ve went to Disney world.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have to give thanks and recognition to my Lord and Savior, JESUS CHRIST. I’ve evolved and learned so much about myself, my purpose and people through my relationship with CHRIST. Knowing of HIS awesome love and how HE treated people and situations totally changed the way I move in this world. I also have to give recognition and thanks to my mother. Not only did she introduce me along with my seven siblings to CHRIST, but she also instilled in us the importance behind finding and operating in your Purpose. Through that exposure, it has allowed me to think higher than what my current circumstances show. I have never developed an unfulfilling 9 to 5 worker’s mindset. No matter what job I had, I knew three things. 1) It was temporary. 2) No amount of money could be offered in exchange for my purpose and 3) I knew any and every encounter or situation was on purpose for purpose. I truly thank her for that nugget because it continues to keep me from settling.

Instagram: @TheRealJaeBrandon @Cast.Me.If.You.Can

Image Credits
Dwyane Boyd Photography Steen Media