Meet Jhalen Daniels | Actor, Producer, and Entrepreneur

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

Hi Jhalen, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Almost a decade now, when I founded Genius Studios (formerly Xtreme Destiny Studios), I saw a profound need in my community—a void of creative opportunities that stifled potential. I couldn’t ignore it. So I turned to what I knew best: building, creating, and dreaming beyond limits. I set out to establish more than just a company—I set out to create a sanctuary where visionaries could bring their dreams to life.

What began as a humble mission quickly became something far greater than I could have imagined. As my exposure grew, so did my purpose. My vision expanded from simply building a space where I and my peers could thrive to building an empire that would redefine the creative landscape entirely.

The dream of being a filmmaker with a modest 20,000-square-foot studio has transformed into the vision of a groundbreaking motion picture studio spanning over 2,500 acres. It will feature dozens of state-of-the-art soundstages and fully immersive, purpose-built backlots—an innovation that will revolutionize the industry.

This is no ordinary plan. This is the hand of God at work, a divine purpose unfolding in real time

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Many lessons have shaped me and brought me to where I am today. While I have much more to achieve, I’m proud of the progress I’ve made. One of the biggest factors in that progress has been learning how to pivot. Sometimes, we hold ourselves back by fixating on a project when the timing or resources aren’t right. Pivoting doesn’t mean abandoning the goal—it means recognizing when to move with the momentum and shift focus to opportunities that are ready now. By doing this, I’ve been able to make steady progress without getting stuck.

Another key has been becoming deeply knowledgeable about my craft and industry. Many people aim for success but overlook the importance of preparation and exposure. I live by the phrase “Exposure evolves your expectations.” When you experience things beyond your current scope, your expectations rise—and that prevents you from settling. That elevated standard has been a crucial part of my success.

Like everyone, I’ve faced obstacles. But I see them as learning curves, not roadblocks. Challenges help you build resilience and grow. By keeping my eyes on the bigger picture, I’ve embraced the process, which is more important than the outcome. Success isn’t just about reaching the goal—it’s about falling in love with the journey.

We’ve already started making waves with projects like the upcoming series The Unheard, starring Adelia Johnson and Raquel Herring, the feature film The Audition directed by Marcus Reyes, and my own film, How I Survived. These are just the beginning, and we’re just getting started.

This is a new era for me, for my team, and for the creatives we’re bringing along with us. And I believe this is only the start of something much greater.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When I first had the chance to connect with you all, I mentioned how I love taking people by Tyler Perry Studios and to one of my favorite spots, Hobnob. But this time, I’m excited to share something new. Now, I’d love to take you to the area where we’re about to acquire a brand-new studio space for Genius Studios. It’s an exciting chapter, and I can’t wait to show it off. And of course, I still have to take you by Hobnob—it’s the go-to spot! I wouldn’t quite call it my favorite restaurant, but it’s definitely up there.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
When building an empire of this magnitude, God always provides a blueprint—a guiding light to show the way. For me, that blueprint was Tyler Perry. Witnessing him build his empire has been one of my greatest inspirations and a powerful driving force behind my own journey. His legacy has shown me what’s possible, and for that, I have to give honor and appreciation where it’s due.

Instagram: @jhalendaniels

Facebook: @jhalendaniels

Image Credits
@eyeamnovember