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An Inspired Chat with Jovaunee Pierre of El Cajon

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Jovaunee Pierre. Check out our conversation below.

Good morning Jovaunee, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I’ve been finding a lot of joy in practicing mindfulness and self-care. Taking time to ground myself has helped me stay more focused and positive, both personally and professionally.

Lately, I’ve really been enjoying gardening, especially growing tomatoes and squash. There’s something satisfying about watching them develop from tiny seeds into something you can actually bring to the table. It’s taught me patience, problem-solving—like figuring out how to keep them healthy through weather changes—and it’s also a reminder that steady effort leads to growth. Plus, it’s a nice way to step back, recharge, and still feel productive outside of work.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Jovaunee Pierre and I’m a hip hop producer, artist, and founder of Misunderstood Tribe. Music has been a part of my life since childhood, and I’ve always been drawn to the way hip hop gives people a voice and a platform to tell their stories. Misunderstood Tribe is more than just a brand—it’s about creating a community for people who may feel overlooked or unheard, and turning those experiences into something powerful and creative. Right now, I’m focused on releasing new music, developing artists, and building a platform that not only entertains but also inspires growth and self-expression. What makes my journey unique is that everything I create is rooted in authenticity—I live for the culture, and I put that same energy into every project I take on.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
One moment that shaped how I see the world was going through a tough period where I felt misunderstood and overlooked. Instead of letting it break me, I used it as fuel to grow and create. It shifted my perspective—I started seeing challenges as opportunities to build resilience and connect with others who might be going through the same thing.

What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
A defining wound for me has been facing setbacks that made me question myself and my path. Instead of letting those moments stop me, I’ve worked on healing by learning patience, staying focused on my goals, and using creativity as a way to process pain. Music has been my biggest form of healing—it turns struggles into something meaningful that others can connect with.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
I’d say the public version of me is a version of who I truly am, but it’s naturally filtered. When you put yourself out there—through music, social media, or your brand—you show the parts of yourself you want people to see, but some things are always private or more nuanced. That said, I try to keep it authentic: the energy, the values, and the creativity I share publicly are all real parts of me. Misunderstood Tribe is an extension of that authenticity—it’s me expressing what I believe in while still leaving room to grow and evolve behind the scenes.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
If I knew I only had 10 years left, I’d immediately stop spending time on things that drain my energy or don’t align with my purpose. That means cutting out unnecessary distractions, negative influences, and self-doubt, and instead doubling down on creating music, building Misunderstood Tribe, and connecting with people who inspire growth. I’d focus entirely on what truly matters—leaving a meaningful impact and enjoying life without regrets.

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Image Credits
Locqden Films

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