Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Trey Haley.

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

The interview aims to:

Inspire creatives and entrepreneurs by sharing Trey Haley’s journey in the entertainment industry.
Highlight the importance of persistence, self-belief, and strategic networking.
Promote Haley’s current work, especially the BET+ series The Family Business.
Educate listeners on the realities of Hollywood and the long-term mindset needed for success.

🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Origin Story & Early Influences

Trey Haley grew up in Dallas-Fort Worth, with a mother in corporate sales and a father who was a criminal defense attorney.
His passion for entertainment began early, influenced by music, Spike Lee scripts, and editing during college at North Texas.

2. Leap of Faith to Los Angeles

Moved to LA with no backup plan, driven by passion.
Took a courier job to network and eventually landed an internship with Morgan Freeman’s company, Revelations Entertainment.

3. Building Tri Destin Studios

Co-founded Tri Destin Studios with Nikita De Brown Jones.
Emphasized creating their own lane and owning their content.
Their goal: “Change the perception of the world” through storytelling where “we always win.”

4. The Family Business

Based on Carl Weber’s bestselling book series.
Independently produced before BET+ picked it up.
Features a star-studded cast including Ernie Hudson, Valerie Pettiford, Michael Jai White, and Javicia Leslie.

5. Industry Wisdom

Success in Hollywood is about relationships, consistency, and character.
Warns against shortcuts and “hook-up culture” in entertainment.
Encourages young creatives to focus on talent, value, and long-term growth.

🗣️ Notable Quotes

On taking risks:
“My mother said, go jump off the ledge and go fly like a bird.”
On self-belief:
“Who told you you could be an attorney? Nobody. You figured it out. I’m going to figure it out too.”
On breaking into the industry:
“I took a courier job just to meet people in the studios. I dressed like I worked there so they’d see me the way I needed to be seen.”
On creating value:
“The most powerful people create their own companies, their own stories, and tell them consistently.”
On longevity:
“If your roots aren’t settled and strong, anything can take you out.”
On perspective:
“Your perspective in life is the key. If you see negative, you’ll get negative. If you see the win, you’ll fly high.”

📺 Current Project Highlight

The Family Business

Streaming on BET+
Multi-season crime drama with layered storytelling and strong character development.
Haley serves as executive producer and director.

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

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