Meet Jen Garcia Allen: LA Mama and Head of Editorial at Whalerock Industries
Jen Garcia Allen
“Never burn bridges. You never know when you'll run into someone again and what role they could potentially play in your life or career.”
Photo Credit: Stefanie Keenan
What do you do and what led you to this career?
I am the Head of Editorial & Programming at Whalerock Industries. I oversee digital properties for Kourtney Kardashian, Kylie Jenner, Golf Media by Tyler the Creator, Adam Savage’s TESTED, Wonderwall, Purple Clover, mom.me, and Kim Kardashian West’s emoji keyboard KIMOJI. Currently, I am now working with SiriusXM on launching their video platform later this year. I was previously in traditional publishing as a longtime PEOPLE and Us Weekly editor before joining Whalerock nearly four years ago.
What are the names and ages of your children?
I have two girls: Flynn Sayles, who is almost 6 years old; and Liv Wylder, who is 3 years old.
What has been your biggest career achievement thus far?
Taking a leap from leaving the magazine world, which I knew so well— and diving head first into the digital-only world to launch and operate the Kardashian/Jenner apps and websites.
What is the most rewarding aspect of being a mother?
Seeing how my girls look up to me and getting to help shape these little people.
And what is the most challenging?
Same as above—ha! There is a lot of pressure (mostly self-imposed) to be the best mom I can be, while being a full-time working mom and raising happy, passionate and confident little girls.
What is your best advice for someone new to your industry?
Never burn bridges. You never know when you'll run into someone again and what role they could potentially play in your life or career.
What is your best advice for a new mother?
Everything passes. When you're in a moment of stress (or a long period of it!) just know it will eventually pass—there is a light at the end of the tunnel. First time around for me, every little thing seemed like the end of the world. Second time around I built confidence and had life experiences to let me know that these "big" things really weren't such a big, stressful deal after all and I could get through them.
What's next for you? Do you have any exciting projects coming up?
Working with SiriusXM to launch their new video offering.
Follow Jen at @JenGarciaAllen