What REALLY Happens In the Villa? with Love Island’s JaNa Craig

Summary

Podcast Summary: "What REALLY Happens In the Villa? with Love Island’s JaNa Craig"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Baby, This is Keke Palmer
• Host: Keke Palmer
• Guest: Janae Craig (JaNa Craig from Love Island)
• Episode Title: What REALLY Happens In the Villa? with Love Island’s JaNa Craig
• Release Date: July 8, 2025

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1. Introduction

Keke Palmer opens the episode by expressing her excitement to host Janae Craig, a standout contestant from the latest season of Love Island. She highlights Janae's journey—from initial challenges to finding love and building a strong support system with her "girl's by her side."

[00:05] Keke Palmer: "She is the queen of confidence and an inspiration for so many black women who don't want to settle in love or life."

2. Transition from Villa to Real Life

Janae discusses the abrupt shift from the high-energy, camera-focused environment of the villa to the calmer pace of everyday life. She reflects on the rapid pace during her time on the show and how settling down has allowed her to build a deeper relationship with her partner, Kenny.

[02:02] Keke Palmer: "Isn't it so weird, like, you go from being in this villa, cameras in your face, everything being so on 10, to then having the calm of real life."

[02:08] Janae Craig: "Everything was so fast... now that we've slowed down, it's so weird. We're still learning more about one another."

3. Building a Relationship with Kenny

Janae shares insights into her relationship with Kenny, emphasizing the foundation they've built over time. She mentions how their bond resembles a "honeymoon phase," highlighting the excitement and continual growth in their relationship.

[02:33] Janae Craig: "Every day he becomes my best friend more and more, and it's so exciting. I feel like we're still in that honeymoon phase."

4. Entrepreneurship and Career Before and After Love Island

Janae delves into her entrepreneurial spirit, tracing her ventures back to high school days selling chocolate bars and expanding into various businesses such as her lash line, Nae Na Collection, and Amazon FBA. She discusses how the pandemic influenced her pivot towards day trading and the foreign exchange market. Her resilience and adaptability are evident as she navigates the challenges of shifting business landscapes.

[15:03] Janae Craig: "I changed my major to communication so that I could have really good communication skills with my friends, future employees."

[17:02] Janae Craig: "I now sell products on Amazon FBA... I'm literally a hustler."

5. Inside the Villa: Dynamics and Challenges

The conversation shifts to Janae's experiences within the Love Island villa. She recounts the intense environment, producer interactions, and the challenges of maintaining authenticity amidst strategic gameplay. Janae highlights the importance of camaraderie, especially within the Pop Up Gang (PPG), and shares instances where production tried to influence their interactions.

[04:22] Janae Craig: "Producer told us we're bigger than Bridgerton, and our lives are going to change forever."

[22:01] Janae Craig: "If you're a mean person, I don't care where you're from. I go for the sweethearts."

6. Handling Conflicts and Producer Interference

Janae discusses specific incidents, such as conflicts with other contestants like Liv and Kendall. She emphasizes her commitment to staying true to herself, even when faced with producer suggestions or on-screen drama. Janae recounts moments where she chose to stand by her friends and navigate conflicts with integrity.

[24:09] Janae Craig: "We were told to go home, but I said no... I was so upset."

[27:25] Janae Craig: "I'm avoiding a specific someone because I just don't care to."

7. Relationship Growth Post-Villa

Keke inquires about the evolution of Janae's relationship with Kenny since their time on the show. Janae attributes their strong bond to shared values, particularly their mutual faith, and the quality time they spend together despite busy schedules.

[35:30] Janae Craig: "Our relationship is strengthened by our relationship with God. That's all we need."

8. Launching "Beyond the Villa": Janae’s New Show

Janae introduces her new venture, "Beyond the Villa," a show that follows her and other Love Island alumni as they navigate life outside the villa. She discusses the challenges of filming in the real world, maintaining friendships, and balancing personal growth with public expectations.

[43:31] Janae Craig: "It's been a roller coaster, like, in a good way."

[47:39] Janae Craig: "We just didn't know the full cast."

9. Interactive Segment: "Villa or Villain"

Keke and Janae engage in a fun and insightful game called "Villa or Villain," where they debate relationship scenarios, side with either the girl (Villa) or the man (Villain). This segment showcases Janae's unwavering loyalty and Keke's playful hosting style.

[50:23] Janae Craig: "Cause what girl lie about that? Men lie."

[52:10] Janae Craig: "Cause that could never happen. Nice try."

10. Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

In the closing segment, Keke congratulates Janae on her new show and discusses future collaborations. Janae shares her aspirations, including hosting and public speaking, drawing inspiration from Keke's dynamic hosting style.

[53:02] Janae Craig: "I have this bucket list. I just say yes to everything until I figure out what it is."

[53:24] Keke Palmer: "That's why I think it was such a great cast... we saw all the different nuances of cultural backgrounds."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Influence of Representation:

  [00:05] Keke Palmer: "She is the queen of confidence and an inspiration for so many black women who don't want to settle in love or life."

• Adjusting to Real Life:

  [02:08] Janae Craig: "I'm still learning more about one another. Sure."

• Entrepreneurial Spirit:

  [15:19] Janae Craig: "I couldn't depend on a man for anything. So then I got three jobs at 16..."

• Handling Production Pressure:

  [22:01] Janae Craig: "If you're a mean person, I don't care where you're from. I go for the sweethearts."

• Relationship Foundation:

  [35:30] Janae Craig: "Our relationship is strengthened by our relationship with God. That's all we need."

• Interactive Game Insight:

  [50:26] Janae Craig: "Cause what girl lie about that? Men lie."

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Conclusion:

In this episode of Baby, This is Keke Palmer, listeners gain an intimate look into Janae Craig's life post-Love Island. From navigating the transition back to real life and building a strong relationship with Kenny to her entrepreneurial ventures and new show, "Beyond the Villa," Janae offers candid insights and inspirational stories. The episode also highlights the importance of friendship, authenticity, and resilience in both personal and professional spheres. Through engaging conversations and interactive segments, Keke and Janae create a rich and relatable narrative that resonates with audiences seeking depth and honesty in reality TV storytelling.

Transcript

[Kiki Palmer]

My guest today is someone I have been dying to talk to since the moment she walked into the villa last season on Love Island. Us. Now, she may have taken a few L's in the beginning, but she came out on top with a new man and a girl's by her side. Shout out to the PowerProf gang. She is the queen of confidence and an inspiration for so many black women who don't want to settle in love or life. That's the power of representation in reality tv, y'.

[Janae]

All.

[Kiki Palmer]

Now she's revealing what's next. So, Janae, welcome to the show. No matter what we doing in the car, just chilling, pop on Amazon music, sit back and listen. Life, love, sex, science, covering it all, especially the bad. Cause money always evolved. No matter what it is, we gonna.

[Janae]

Make it make sense.

[Kiki Palmer]

Nothing else to do but kick it with the homies and kings. So grab you a drink and a snack, you enjoy and get into the vibe that only you know it's your girl. This is Kiki, baby. This is Kiki Palma.

[Janae]

Yeah.

[Kiki Palmer]

This episode is presented in partnership with Airbnb. Baby, summer's calling, and she's got one.

[Janae]

Thing on her mind.

[Kiki Palmer]

Your next getaway. My take. Plan your trip by searching guest favorites on Airbnb, because these most loved homes are ready for your next adventure. Let's get into it. Hey, boo.

[Janae]

How are you? I'll be trying list. Thank you, baby.

[Kiki Palmer]

How are you, girl?

[Janae]

I'm good.

[Kiki Palmer]

I'm so excited to have you on the show. You know, I talked to Serena. I couldn't go any further. I had to also talk to you.

[Janae]

Thank you.

[Kiki Palmer]

Thank you for coming to the show. It's been a year since Love island premiered. I mean, time flew by so fast.

[Janae]

How are you?

[Kiki Palmer]

How are things with Kenny?

[Janae]

We're good. Everything's good. We just been chilling.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yeah.

[Janae]

Yeah.

[Kiki Palmer]

I mean, isn't it so weird, like, you go from being on this villa, cameras in your face, everything being so on 10, to then having the calm of, like, real life.

[Janae]

Yes.

[Kiki Palmer]

How was that adjustment initially? Because now it's settled in.

[Janae]

You're right. It has a little in now. Thank God. Everything was so fast. Like, I kind of don't even remember, like, if I'm being honest, August to, like, December. I look at pictures like, oh, my gosh, I did do that. I'm like, can you remember when we went here? He's like, no, I'm like, me either. But, wow, good to know that we went to Japan, you know, I mean, like, stuff like that. Yeah. It was a Lot. But, like, now that we slowed down, it's so weird. Like, we're still, like, learning more about one another. Sure.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yeah.

[Janae]

Yes. Like, and it's so. It's like, things that you should have known, like, a while ago, but since, like, everything was so fast, we're just so focused on, like, supporting each other, like, getting stuff done. Yeah. Like, now that it's slowed down, like, every day he, like, becomes my best friend more and more, and it's so exciting. Yeah. Like, I feel like we're still, like, that honeymoon phase.

[Kiki Palmer]

Where do y' all live? Like, are you. Different states? Same state? Yes.

[Janae]

Okay. So he's in Dallas.

[Kiki Palmer]

Okay.

[Janae]

I'm in Vegas.

[Kiki Palmer]

Okay.

[Janae]

And then we're both here in LA for the summer.

[Kiki Palmer]

Oh, that's awesome. So usually you guys are traveling back and forth, but then now you guys actually get some more, like, consistent time in LA.

[Janae]

Yes, ma'. Am.

[Kiki Palmer]

How y' all liking LA? LA's different. I don't know how much you spent.

[Janae]

Time here before, but it's a little different. You know, I lived in San Diego. I went to San Diego State, so I guess not, like, I remember the Cali vibes, but, like, you know. Yeah. This traffic thing is just, like, not cute.

[Kiki Palmer]

It's traffic. It's a lot of industry. And I'm sure you, you know, you and the ppg, y' all are the hottest thing in town, so it's probably a lot. Has there been a highlight year?

[Janae]

Oh, yeah. Okay. I think the highlight of this year is definitely the Grammys.

[Kiki Palmer]

Oh, my God. Yes.

[Janae]

The fact that we got invited, we're like, y' all want us at the Grammys. Period. Period.

[Kiki Palmer]

What. What was the experience like? Because I don't actually think that I've ever actually been to the Grammys.

[Janae]

Yeah, it was a lot. Yeah, it's good. It's really fun. It's really fun, but it's a lot of waiting. It was, like, a lot of waiting.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yeah. No, the shows are usually long unless you have something to do. Like, I do like to work at events, so I know that, like, I'm doing this and then going home sometimes it's a lot to get into the party vibe. It's like, what's happening.

[Janae]

Yeah. No, seriously.

[Kiki Palmer]

So was there a moment where you realized, coming off this show, the extent of your popularity? Because when you guys in the villa, you can't talk to anybody. You can't. You know, you don't really know how the public is responding to you outside of the voting nights. So when was that? Moment where you realized, oh, wow, I'm really making an impact, that people are really, like, rocking with me.

[Janae]

Okay, good question. Okay, so we have no idea what's going on inside the villa, Right? And then it wasn't until, like, the last day they tell us that we're getting a reunion. And I don't know if you've seen the other seasons, but only, like, maybe the first two or three seasons got a reunion, and then they stopped it.

[Kiki Palmer]

Okay. For the US One.

[Janae]

For the. Yeah. So, like, you would have to do so good that America would want to see, like, a reunion. So we're like, a reunion. That means, like, we're doing good. And then the top producer took us aside. It's like, I just want you guys know, because we don't get your phone until two days after each episode airs. So, like, we couldn't get our phone till two days after so that you guys don't know who, like, won or not, you know, or one. But he goes in the kitchen, he goes, I'm so proud of each and every one of you guys. This has been my favorite one. He's filmed every single one.

[Kiki Palmer]

He didn't lie.

[Janae]

I thought we did good. But he was like, you're bigger than Bridgerton, and your lives are going to change forever. And it's something about one of producers as your life. Like, you're bigger than Bridgerton because Bridgerton. Yeah, like, everyone watched that one. It's from last year. Yeah.

[Kiki Palmer]

No, but it really was a. Like, that. And specifically because of, like, you and Serena, like, ppg. But also, like, for me, like, I remember when I saw the clips of y', all, I felt so seen in a way that I don't feel like I'm always seen.

[Janae]

That's how you make us feel. Oh, stop. I'm so serious. Like, no, you make us feel like that. That's so crazy.

[Kiki Palmer]

Oh, my gosh. It really. I really perceive that, because, I mean, if it feels the way that I'm saying, then I know it's deep because it's just like, yeah, like, I relate to her. And watching you guys on the show, I immediately was like, dude, this girl is my friend. She is me.

[Janae]

Aww. We try. We try to make. We try to make the sisters proud.

[Kiki Palmer]

No, you really did. Y' all really did held it together, but still wasn't robotic, you know what I'm saying? Like, we saw moments on the show where you were vulnerable. Were you like, hey, like, am I not that girl? Because I've been sure that I'm that girl, Sis.

[Janae]

For a whole second, I was like, I know. I'm like, you know, all right. But the way they were treating me, I'm like, I know about that life. Like, what is the issue? I was so confused.

[Kiki Palmer]

It's tough. And obviously, we know it's tough in the real world.

[Janae]

Right.

[Kiki Palmer]

It's tough finding love without cameras around. And then it is even more when people are watching you in real time. Figure it out with somebody. Before I get into, like, obviously how you found Kenny in that moment before, I'm curious, when you came back home, how your relationships were impacted by being on the show. Right. Because even for me, growing up in the industry, I remember when I became popular, even my family member was like.

[Janae]

Can we take pics?

[Kiki Palmer]

So I'm curious, have you experienced that? Like, how has things shifted since this popular?

[Janae]

Yeah, that's actually a good question. Yeah, no, my family. So my family's, like, half of them from Southside Chicago. The other side's from Atlanta.

[Kiki Palmer]

Okay. That's like my sister.

[Janae]

Yeah. I said, we're sisters, so, you know, they ain't shy.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yeah.

[Janae]

Right. So I'll just be minding my business. Every day I get a call, like a FaceTime, like, this is my neighbor. They want to say hi to you. I'm like, hi, neighbor. This is my mailman. I'm like, hi, Mr. Mailman. And, like, my baby cousins are, like, in dance classes, so they'd FaceTime me. He's like, they don't believe that you're my cousin. I'm like, I'm your cousin. Like, hey. And stuff like that. Yeah, it's cute. It's sweet. But, like, they're just like, so, you know, you gotta get everybody a Christmas present. Right? And I'm like, I already. What? Yes. They just. They're just the most. But it's been good. Like, they've been supporting me a lot. My church. I know, but they're like, jana, like, when do you cuss? So it was so bad. Yes, it was. No, it was so bad, yes. My mom's like, no. The church is like, yeah. When they told me that, my heart dropped. I'm like, oh, I'm about to get in trouble. But they were very proud of me, you know, like, you know, God, for your kids. So, like, you know, let's hunt it down. And, you know, no more bikinis. I was like, sorry. The body was eating, though. I was trying. So I need the bikinis to continue.

[Kiki Palmer]

So when you think about the Janae that entered the villa and you Think about the Janae that's now outside of the villa. What is the biggest difference? What do you think, you know, change you the most from that experience?

[Janae]

Oh, my gosh, that's such a good question. Okay, so I pride myself in always being, like, humble.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yeah. Yeah.

[Janae]

Right. So I try to be, like, double humble, which is not even a thing, you know, I mean, like, Right. But, like, I don't know, I think I've just been way more grateful. Like, I always woke up with, like, gratitude and, like, every morning, my God, is good, life is good, everything's okay. I'm healthy, I'm smart, I'm strong. Right. I'm kind to others and others will be kind to me. But ever since the villa, I have to tell myself that, like, twice a day now. I don't know why, but, like. Like, right before I got in here, I'm like, everything's going to be good. Kiki loves you, you love Kiki, everything's fine. Stuff like that. But I don't know, like, I just been so grateful. I get, I will say, more nervous. I've never had anxiety.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yeah. So that's what. When you said that, that's what it sounded like to me, like. But I mean, yeah, it's very natural. I mean, I think for me, I've always. I think I was an anxious person before I was in the industry.

[Janae]

I could never tell. I feel you've been in since day one, like, since you were a baby.

[Kiki Palmer]

I was just about to say. It's probably hard for me to tell because I've been doing it for. So think being popular or being famous or being somebody in front of the camera, it will make you more anxious because you're constantly being perceived. So it's. It's a natural thing. But the remedy.

[Janae]

Give me some advice, please.

[Kiki Palmer]

I was going to say the remedy, I think, is what you just said. Like, the grat. Like having gratitude. Like, I mean, nothing really can go too wrong. At the end of the day, I just be myself. And if they don't like me, then, hey, you know, they don't like me. But all I can do is give my best, and that's how I've always dealt with it. And I'm the same way. Like, I will repeat something. I'm like, this is the thing. This is the thing. This is the thing. And it helps me get through. So I just keep doing it, you know?

[Janae]

So proud of you. Yeah. I was like, if she can do it, I can do it. But, like, oh, my gosh, the amount of, like, I think it's the last. Right? I was, like, never, ever anxious, never nervous.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yeah.

[Janae]

Ever. Like, I was like. Like, I signed up for, like, the talent shows. And, like, I was like, prom queen. I was like, I got this girl.

[Kiki Palmer]

I read. I was like, mama was prom. And then you grew up in Hawaii, which also is C, too. On the beach.

[Janae]

Sound like that.

[Kiki Palmer]

I live for that. So wait, quick with the prom queen thing, because I think that's, like, every girl's dream. I definitely wanted to be prom queen. I didn'. Go to high school, but I would have loved to. And I would have loved to be prom queen.

[Janae]

True Jackson, right? I was the vp.

[Kiki Palmer]

I was the vp. What did it feel like becoming prom queen?

[Janae]

Oh, my. It's so funny because. Okay, I know this sounds, like, very. How do I say this? I kind of respectfully, humbly, sorry. Jesus. But, like, I knew only because my mom was prom queen, my brother was prom king. It's something in our family where, like, we just, like, are very outgoing. And I've been, like, I was in Hawaii since third grade, so, like, I grew with all my family, like, and friends, and I was always, like, the only black girl in class. I was very, like, kind and outgoing. Like, I kind of knew. I knew so bad that I made my mom fly to California to get five, four dresses for me. So, like, we already knew. So she flew out there, picked the four dresses that I saw, flew them back, we tried them on. I picked one, and, like, when they said my name, I was like, oh, my gosh. And then we're like, janae, go. Like, we knew. I was like, thanks.

[Kiki Palmer]

Do you feel like that helps you with being in the villa or anything like that? Meaning? Like, I mean, I do feel like it's kind of like being a public, like, person, you know what I mean?

[Janae]

You know, I do this thing where, like, maybe. How to explain it? Because I was raised in Japan, and I was, like, all over Asia. Military brats.

[Kiki Palmer]

Okay. Boom.

[Janae]

Right?

[Kiki Palmer]

I'm like, childhood.

[Janae]

No, like, the way me and God, I was like, okay, God, good. But the thing was, like, I did this thing, like, growing up where I was always, like, the only black girl. Yeah. So, like, I could either be, like, uncomfortable and shy, or I can just, like, Let me just be, like, not, like, I don't want to, like, to show people I'm, like, shy or uncomfortable in any room. So I would just vibe with everyone. Like, I'd introduce myself and stuff. Like, all over the world. I made all these friends, and even in Third grade, my first day of school, I was like, what's your name? You want to be my friend? I was never shy. So I do this thing where I just adapt to others. I try to build rapport, all that cute stuff. So in the villa, my first day, I'm just like, the second I saw Serena, I was fine.

[Kiki Palmer]

My girl with this suit, we're ready to go into politics.

[Janae]

We're ready.

[Kiki Palmer]

I live for everything that you just said. And I do feel like we saw that in you in the show. Like that conf. Kind of like. Yeah. Even if I am the only or one of few, like, who gives a. Like, I'm here.

[Janae]

I'm gonna just do it. Yeah.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yes. And that was the energy we needed to see for a long time on your life. Seriously, baby, this is Ike Palma. Yeah. Summer is here, and you know what that means. It's time to live your best life. This couple's trip I took to Turks and Caicos a while back lives rent free in my mind. Okay, let me paint the picture. I stayed in this gorgeous Airbnb, right on the beach with waking up to the sound of waves and stepping out onto the pristine white sand. That memory is still giving me summertime magic. Now, whether you're for a beachfront paradise, like I had a cozy cabin in the woods or a chic city apartment, Airbnb's got amazing homes waiting for you. We're talking better locations, more privacy, and the kind of space that'll have you feeling like the star of your own summer blockbuster. So don't let the summer slip away. Book your Airbnb now and get ready to live that main character life. Trust me, you're gonna have a time, baby. I have never, and I mean never, been more devastated than when I found out that some of y' all been sneaking around behind Domino's back just to get your stuffed crust fix. Now, you know us Virgos are incredibly loyal, steadfast even. Cheating, especially on something as serious as Parmesan stuffed crust pizza ain't gonna fly in this house. I saw y' all slide into those other pizza spots. Drive thrus ordering that cheese filled crust like Domino's. And I wouldn't find out about your little rendezvous. But, sweetie, the healing starts today because Domino's just dropped their own stuffed crust. And now y' all got no excuse to keep stepping out on them like this. It's time to put those pizza cheating ways to rest. Domino's new Parmesan stuffed crust is serving pure decadence with that buttery, handmade Dough wrapped around a cascading stream of 100% melty goodness. These are the cheese pulls of your dreams. It's very much a goofy movie level of ooey, gooey, cheesy deliciousness. And of course, your girl can't forget about that signature garlic seasoning and parmesan sprinkle dance on top of that perfectly baked crust, making every single taste taste like it was blessed by the pizza gods themselves. You can think about it now. I'm already imagining the parm stuff pie I've been plotting on. Next time I'm placing my order, you best believe I'm having mushrooms, grilled onions, and some extra peppers just to, you know, keep the vegetables on top. Now, this is the kind of commitment I'm talking about. No more pizza cheating needed when Domino's is bringing this level of excellence to the table. Order Domino's new Parmesan stuffed crust pizza on the Domino's app and use code keke to get any three topping Parmesan Stuffed Crust Pizza for 11.99. Price is higher for some locations. You must ask for this limited time offer. Prices, participation, delivery area, and charges may vary. Delivery orders subject to local stores. Delivery charge. Holla at your girl. But before Love island, you were an entrepreneur. Like, what made you, like, tell me a little bit about what your entrepreneurial pursuits were.

[Janae]

Of course. Okay, so fun fact, I think I've lived, like, about nine lives before @ Love island.

[Kiki Palmer]

So people like.

[Janae]

But I remember, like, okay, it started all the way from, like, in high school, I would buy, like, chocolate bars from the grocery store from the commissary for 50 cents. Come on, Kevin. For $2. Exactly. So I've been like, you know, a little miss entrepreneur. But, like, I just told myself I would never depend on a man for anything.

[Kiki Palmer]

And that's right.

[Janae]

Yes, ma'. Am. I couldn't because, like, you know, unfortunately, like, my mom did. My mom was such a good wife and such a good mom. Yeah. And then when my dad left, I saw the struggle, and, man, that struggle. I was like, I could not do that. Like, why would you think. They're just a man? So then I got, like, three jobs at 16, and one of them was, like, so chocolate bars and candies, and I liked. I was like, man, one day I made, like, a hundred dollars. I'm like, hold on. I'm rich. I know how to do it was insane. It was so easy. Yeah. And then when I went off to college, my major, like, you don't need a business administration, like, degree to run A business you just really need Google and YouTube. So I changed it. So it's really that simple, like self explanatory. So I changed it to communication so that I could have like really good communication skills with my friends, future employees. Because I was thinking long term. But I first did I sold lashes, period. Yeah, they're called Nae Na Collection. And business was booming and then Covid hit. So like that business kind of. And then I was born in Covet. So then I started to learn how to day trade and the foreign exchange market. And I just love analyzing charts. It's like very therapeutic to me. Like I like started investing like in stocks and learning how stocks work. So like it was just, I don't know, I told myself somehow some way I'm gonna do it. And then my Airbnb business came out and about because I was scrolling on Instagram, I saw all these like young kids like successfully like killing it in Airbnb. So then I went to like Dallas and I. It's so crazy how Kenny lives in Dallas because like I already knew about Dallas because I got my Airbnbs there. And then the laws changed in Dallas where like you basically can only have midterm rentals. So after that business shut down, I was like, I don't know what I'm gonna do, but I'm gonna do it. I started studying Amazon and then I did Amazon, fba. I still have. You are sponsors. Hustlers. Yeah.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yes, Amazon, Amazon.

[Janae]

Love me some Amazon.

[Kiki Palmer]

This is all real.

[Janae]

Yes. But I now sell products on Amazon, Amazon, fba. And then I went up into the villa. So then I had to hire like a VA to like manage your.

[Kiki Palmer]

So you are literally a hustler. That Chicago side of your family is coming through.

[Janae]

Southside we don't have because one thing.

[Kiki Palmer]

We gonna do is find a job and a gig. How do you think that helped you in the villa? Like did you obviously you were going to the villa for love. But hearing you talk, you're a smart young woman. So you knew that there would also be opportunities coming out of the villa. Whether there's love or something else otherwise.

[Janae]

Yes. You know what's so crazy? Even like in the villa, I mean like thinking of the outside, I don't think any of us thought that it would be like to this extreme. Yeah, like Keke Palmer knows who I am.

[Kiki Palmer]

I watched you every day in my bedroom eating food.

[Janae]

I would have never thought. I would have never thought. You know what I mean? So like inside the villa, the way I use like my Entrepreneur. Like, I guess side of me was just to literally never give up and pivot. Like, every time a boy left me, I'm like, I'm just gonna pivot and we're gonna go to someone else. Like, man, the amount of Ls I took up in that villa. But, like, I could have gone, but.

[Kiki Palmer]

You made it look like fashion.

[Janae]

You really did.

[Kiki Palmer]

You really. Because I felt like it was. I don't know. I just never once felt like, oh, no, poor Jeanette. I just never felt that I didn't want anybody. You just ate. You were like, this is crazy. They're crazy. But my moment is coming. And your moment came.

[Janae]

Shout out to Kenny.

[Kiki Palmer]

Shout out to Kenny. I know Kenny was young, and he wasn't necessarily what you were thinking at first when you found about that age, but how did you get to the point of opening yourself up to him? I mean, obviously he's cute and he was nice, but it's a cute little thing.

[Janae]

Yeah. So the second he told me his age, I'm looking that like, oh, no, no, not a babysitter. Like, I can't be a babysitter. That's insane. Right? But the crazy part, he was 20. Was he 24? And I was 27? Yeah. So I was like, oh, you're so cute. From, like, is he handsome? To he's cute. Right. But the crazy part is, I don't know if Serena told you, but, like, the night before he came in, you know, Serena was still, like, on edge of what she wanted. I knew for a fact that I was single at that moment. So I was like, this sucks. And we're venting, like, how it's, like, so not fair, specifically for black girls. Like, we felt like we're getting the shorter end of the stage. And she was, like, so frustrated. And I was like, oh, my gosh. I feel you're, like, girl, you're not alone stuff, right? I'm like, we should just, like, manifest what we want. So she's like, what do you want? And I was like, I need a Latino man. Because I already had a vanilla, and I already had chocolate. I already had chocolate the first time. The second vanilla, so I'll switch it up. And then she was like, okay, okay. And I'm like, he has to be at least 6:1. She's like, yes, yes. And then I. It was a crazy.

[Kiki Palmer]

And for Latino.

[Janae]

I know.

[Kiki Palmer]

That's right.

[Janae]

I was like, he needs to be from New York. And she's like, why? I'm like, I don't know. The Ones from New York are just like a different. And I didn't tell her specifically the Bronx, but I said in my head, he's going to be from Brooklyn, and he's going to be from New York.

[Kiki Palmer]

You need to stop.

[Janae]

I put this on everything things Dorina to this day. So when he came in, he was. At first, he had mentioned something about Dallas, but I'm like, oh, but where are you from originally? He's like, I'm from New York. And I went. And I'm like, oh, that's cool.

[Kiki Palmer]

I'm like, oh.

[Janae]

Like, what are you like. Are you like, Mexico? He goes, I'm Dominican.

[Kiki Palmer]

I said, afro Latina?

[Janae]

Yes. I was like, Serena. She's like, jane Donald. And I'm like. She goes like, look. How tall are you? Six? Three. And we're like, oh, my God. Yes.

[Kiki Palmer]

I love when me and my girl start gagging together. It's almost better than the news from the guy.

[Janae]

Yes. It was insane. So me here looking at you, I'm like, don't, don't. But then he pulls, like, Leah for a chat first, and then me.

[Kiki Palmer]

Oh, my gosh. Yeah.

[Janae]

But if you're gonna pull anyone, it's gonna be my best friend, period. Not mad. Not mad.

[Kiki Palmer]

And you chose correct.

[Janae]

But then, yeah, I was like, I manifested him. It was so weird. So I'm like, you might be the one, because I manifested you.

[Kiki Palmer]

Oh, my gosh.

[Janae]

And so what?

[Kiki Palmer]

I mean, we missed so many. And I. I don't say we missed, but, you know, we don't get to see everything, right? We don't get to see everything. So what were some of those things that we. That are, like, on the cutting room floor?

[Janae]

You miss Serena, go in at the fire pit. Y' all didn't see the full fire pit. Who, child, let me get in trouble. But Serena really, like, expressed herself way better than what the camera showed at the recoupling. I'll tell you that when the cameras are off. But Shawty went. And as she said, like, you guys are proud of her. You guys are proud of her.

[Kiki Palmer]

I just feel like the casting was so good on this season, and if Love island is listening and y' all ever decide to do a hbcu, just call me for the host.

[Janae]

It.

[Kiki Palmer]

Okay, call me. Y' all do a hbcu, Love island type of, like, extravaganza for Juneteenth or something, I will be your host. So let me know, because this casting was really, really well done, because I felt we saw all the different nuances of cultural backgrounds not just putting pieces together to, say, check off. It felt like all the people could actually connect on what they're interested in.

[Janae]

Isn't that crazy?

[Kiki Palmer]

And that's why I think it was such a great cast, was because everybody was like, even if they're different backgrounds, they was on the same page, period, you know? And that was. That's important. I mean, what was your mentality coming into the villa when it was came to friends, especially, like, just meeting people that were going to be. I mean, sometimes it is solo and lonely. Yeah.

[Janae]

Some girls came in solo and walked out solo. Like, we try to be good friends with them, but I think they're just there for such a short amount of time. But I told myself, obviously, go straight for the black girls. The good thing about me is I base people off their personality first.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yes.

[Janae]

Like, it doesn't matter what you look like. I don't care where you're from. But if you're a mean person. You see what I'm saying? Yes. So let me go for, like, the sweethearts, because I consider myself like a sweetheart. But every girl was such a girl's girl. Yes. Like, I thought I was a girl's girl until, like, I. When they saved me, I know I thought I was going home. I was like, it's been fun. And they say. I'm like, y' all want me to still stay?

[Kiki Palmer]

Every girl was a girl's girl. And I was like, to see you guys actually really form a clique that's still maintained outside of the show. I mean, that must have been shocking for y'.

[Janae]

All.

[Kiki Palmer]

Like, was there any moment where you felt like, I don't want to say the producers, but the producers and. Or the public pitting you against each other or trying to create any type of hardship.

[Janae]

So the thing about the producers is, like, they will never make you do something you don't want to do, but they would, like, suggest something like, hey, like, it seemed like, you know, can he hurt your feelings? Yesterday, did you want to go talk to someone else instead? And I was like, no, people hurt feelings. And I mean, he's like, okay, well, like, you know, I know you would want to venture, Serena, but why don't you vent to, like, someone else? I'm like, no, that's my girl. I need to vent to her. Like, they try, like, make you. That's like, okay, well, just letting know. I think you should do this and say, because I'm like, thanks for your opinion, but no, no, no. Nice try, you know?

[Kiki Palmer]

Yeah, but what do you say? Because at the end of the day, I'm sure being on the show, you're thinking to yourself, like, I also don't want to piss. I still want my TV time.

[Janae]

Yes. Like, oh, first me and Kenny got no air time. Apparently, I haven't. Like, I mean, I've seen the majority of it because, like, it's so hard watching yourself. But, like, people like, y' all got no airtime. I'm like, we know. But I think it's because we talked about.

[Kiki Palmer]

It was like, blink and y' all was in love.

[Janae]

Yeah. We were like, yes.

[Kiki Palmer]

You know, but we did see it. But it was also kind of like, damn, they are. She's tired of it.

[Janae]

Why did I think that too? People like, Jay, you're so desperate. I'm like, no. There was days that you guys missed. We actually had conversations. It looked like that, huh?

[Kiki Palmer]

But we're also used to reality tv, so we know we can fill in the holes. You know what I'm saying? For the most part. But I'm always curious of that, because it's a balance. Right. It's like, at the end of the day, I want to stay on the show and have an experience, but also, like, I want to be true to myself.

[Janae]

Exactly. And that was, I think what set our season apart from the others was like, every time I would assume that the other seasons would just, like, fall into the suggestions of production. So many times they told us not to do something, and we did it. We didn't care. They told me, do not walk off set. I walked off set because I was upset, like, did not care. And every single time they told us do something, I kind of thought we all purposely, like, just didn't do it. Just cuz, like, we some bad little kids.

[Kiki Palmer]

Well, also, I like, for the banding together energy.

[Janae]

Yeah. And I told them, I was like, if I go home, just like, no, Leah, Serena going home. And then they're like, please don't go home. I'm like, I'm leaving. Like, I was so upset. Let's go, girls. And like, let's go. There's so many times. But then, like, I know that one moment, like, Serena really needs to talk to, like, Cordell one more time. Leah needs to talk to Miguel one more time. So can we just stay for one more day? And if you sleep on it in the morning, if you want to go, we will all go. And I'm so grateful that they made me sleep on it that night because, like, that was the day after Costa more. I'm like, this Is ghetto. This is ratchet.

[Kiki Palmer]

This is.

[Janae]

Oh, my gosh. More.

[Kiki Palmer]

So much. And, like, the girls are coming in and so much. So ready to rub your man's back. It's like, why y' all so ready?

[Janae]

They told us. They told us one day, like, we promised you guys were girls. Girls. I'm like.

[Kiki Palmer]

It's like, I feel like they're like, you'll get extra $10 if you kiss them on the neck. It's like, why is everybody so ready to be freaked out? That was just so.

[Janae]

We actually got in trouble. Fun fact. We got in trouble because. So one day, the day after custom, more the following day. It's not like we were. I don't think we're mean to the Costa More girls. We just didn't care to talk to them because it's like.

[Kiki Palmer]

Cause we know what y' all was up to. Y' all over there like a football player on the field ready to crash. I know what's going on. They were too ready.

[Janae]

You are my favorite person.

[Kiki Palmer]

They were too ready to get to the. They were too ready.

[Janae]

I'm talking about, like, you know, your mom's watching, right? Exactly. And I think, like, production, basically. Long story short, HR Came.

[Kiki Palmer]

Okay. Get them together.

[Janae]

I was. No, but we all together. We were in trouble.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yeah. Because I do remember that moment where it felt like we. I knew that time was cut. Like, I knew that there was a time lapse because everybody was, like, in that corner, and it was like, we had to. You know, you knew that things went left.

[Janae]

It was crazy. It was Liv and someone in the makeup room. So the first night, the girls were too scared. They thought that we were intimidating. So they waited outside the makeup room until we, like, got ready for bed, and we were like, don't care. And then went to bed, and they got their makeup room. And then the next morning, they were like, we wanted to do our makeup, but, like, I don't think they're welcoming. I'm like, okay, so wait outside. Like, we were not playing, so we're doing our makeup. And mind you, I want to go home at this point. Like, I'm already over it. Kenny tried me. I don't care to be here. Right. I'm sitting, and Kayla goes Janae. Like, Liv and Serena. Someone was with Liv. I think it was Serena. They're in the makeup room arguing with the Cosmo girls. I said, time to shine. I took my shoes off so quick, and I'm running. I was like, let's go. Because I told them if I go I'm going out with a bang, Literal bang. I was so upset, right, Kiki? I was running, and I was ready. I get to the front, I go up the stairs, and who's there? HR with the other two producers that are never on set. They're up in the air. And I was like. And I had all those momentums, like, what are you doing here, Janae? I was like, like, just checking on my girls. Like, no, come here. So they called all the girls into the makeup room, and they were like, for you OGs to be so distant from the other girls. Like, we picked you guys because of your personalities, because your kindness. Like, we know your hearts, mind you. I'm here with shades on, so the girls are like, we're on the room.

[Kiki Palmer]

I'm just like, and dad ain't even real, y'.

[Janae]

All.

[Kiki Palmer]

We ain't got to go so far, but we can't.

[Janae]

The way they really see what I'm saying, they tried us, and so we had to go in a circle. And basically everyone apologized. I was signing because I'm like, I ain't doing that. So I'm apologizing for it. I didn't do nothing. Right? And then they went around. The girls were, like, crying. The. The customer girls were crying. Like, we're really sorry. Like, I. Like, we hate that we're in this position. Like, we're rooting for you girls, but, like, you know, like, we deserve love, too. And I'm just like, just don't call yourself a girl's girl. Because me personally, a production is like, hey, you're not an og. You're coming as a customer girl. I would, like, send me home, back to America, because I would never in my life be a customer girl. I've seen the other shows. I see how it works. I would never sign up to break up a relationship. I just.

[Kiki Palmer]

It's tough, you know what I mean? And sometimes you might find somebody during the car some more time where it's like, okay, clearly this person has left.

[Janae]

Yeah.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yeah, exactly. Things went wrong, and there's opportunity, but it's very rare. But speaking of Rob, really quick, I wanted to do a sideline. What was up with Liv? And I loved Liv. Right? But then she made me really upset.

[Janae]

Yeah.

[Kiki Palmer]

When she came and Lia and did all that stuff, what was that about? Like, why did she just suddenly get so vicious like that?

[Janae]

It was. I know, right?

[Kiki Palmer]

Like, did I miss something?

[Janae]

I watched episode two, and I was like, did I miss something? I was there. I know. So think about Liv is get It. So you gotta remember, Liv is, like, really young. She was. She was 22 at the time. She was very Ride or die for who and for what? Right.

[Kiki Palmer]

I just didn't get it. She was seeming so, like, down for the girls. But then it was like, I'm sorry, what?

[Janae]

I know my elimination, you know, she was obviously like, right, Janae's not going anywhere. So I'm like, oh, my love for you. You're strong. I got your back. Right. But the Rob situation, I don't know. So what you guys didn't see is, like, respectfully, like, we're obviously all big, fun family. Like, on our break days, it would be Rob, Liv, Kaylor and Aaron, like, that four. And then it would be literally ppg, like me.

[Kiki Palmer]

What do you mean by days off?

[Janae]

So we had break days on Fridays. Every. Was it Fridays? Yeah, every Friday was, like, a break day where, like, you have to be separate from the guys and girls. But, like, we always kind of mingle in a way. Or like, the days, like, during lunch time, lunch break and stuff is when the cameras aren't on, you get to relax and chill. Like, you play card games. Me and Leah would play volleyball for, like, hours. Srina would take naps because she's always so tired. Right. But there'll be times, like, in between sessions where you can take a break and you can just chill with your peoples and like, in between the breaks, or even, like, when we can freed around, when there's cameras even rolling. I don't know if you guys noticed. It was always me, Leah, Serena. Right. With, like, as one by one, they came in, like, eventually was Cordell, all of us, like, you know, as a thing, and then the others. Not that it was ever separate because we're still family, but we're still separate. Yeah. You know what I'm saying? So I would assume that Liv decided to have Rob jobs back because they were, like, a 4Z. And then, like, we were like a 6C or whatever, you know, I mean, like, whenever. So it was always, like, separate. So I would just assume that she had his back because, like, they were just close from the jump, even though we were all close. But, like. I don't know. I don't know. Yeah. And I felt the need. So when they started arguing, I had to mind my business because I don't know what they're arguing about. Yeah. Oh, I know what they're arguing about. Sending Andrea home. And mind you, that argument was Leah. I mean, when they played it back.

[Kiki Palmer]

In the reunion, it wasn't Like, Leah was so aggressively being like, send her home. It was, like, very lightweight. We don't know her.

[Janae]

Yeah, exactly.

[Kiki Palmer]

That was the energy.

[Janae]

And she was. She was making it clear. Andre's making it clear that she's like, I'm so all in for Rob. Like, it's gonna be hard to turn my head where the show is about being open to multiple people, because, like, when a new bombshell comes in, it's not fair to that new bombshell that everyone's closed off. People like Janae, who has no choice but to be open, is gonna give them the time of day. Right. Yeah. So that was like. Like, Leah's made points. Like, she said, she's very clear to be closed off on Rob, and everybody's.

[Kiki Palmer]

In love until the camera says cut.

[Janae]

Exactly.

[Kiki Palmer]

Because where's Andre and Rob now? Like, give me a break. No offense.

[Janae]

No cup of tea. I would love to know. Exactly. But it was just like, when Rob didn't want to go home with her.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yeah. Like, he stayed back.

[Janae]

You know what I'm saying? I'm like, baby, you don't look so good.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yeah. So what was that about? Sometimes you get so invested, you know?

[Janae]

So invested. I know I'm on the sidelines because I got saved, so I couldn't be involved. I felt so bad when the argument happened. I had to wait till they, like, hashed out, and then I come in comfort, because, mind you, I was one of the girls that got, like, on the sideline, so I don't know what the conversation was. I don't know. Like, I was like, I know for a fact Leah wouldn't do that, because Leah's petty, but she's not that petty. She would never, ever. And so when you guys saw that at the reading, I'm like, see, I knew she wouldn't do that. Right. But mind you, I still wasn't there. And, like, I was so grateful to all four girls for saving me. I'm always going to be Team Both, but, like, ppg. PPG is forever. So I'm like, I gotta run. Aaliyah. Of course. And then later on, I checked on Liv. Of course, I'm like, I'm running to Lulu, because why? That's my sister. Yeah. But I feel. I feel like. Felt so bad for all of them. But, like, yeah, I. When people ask me about that question, I'm like, I got saved that day. So, like, I don't have no idea what happened. I'm just grateful to be here. And I love them both, but.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yeah, but you. You know you see what's going on.

[Janae]

Yeah. But when that happened, it really divided us.

[Kiki Palmer]

I know it did because it divided me. And I was at home kind of like, what just happened here? I almost had to turn it off for a few days because I was just kind of like, what. What was this about? And how he was able to just start up so much ruckus. Rob was.

[Janae]

The way that Rob had an effect on everyone.

[Kiki Palmer]

I didn't get it.

[Janae]

I love Robbie, but I'm like, what do y' all see that I don't like? I love him. He's the sweetest guy. But every girl that came into our villa was like, Rob. I'm like.

[Kiki Palmer]

And then it became such a storyline that I think also that made people be engaged.

[Janae]

Yeah.

[Kiki Palmer]

So you're still with your guy, obviously, Kenny, we talked about that at the top. I want to know on that, on the show, when he came back and he was crying, I mean, I didn't expect for his emotion to be so raw. What were you thinking then? Were you taken aback?

[Janae]

Yeah. So when he cried, I wasn't there.

[Kiki Palmer]

So, like, oh, you didn't say this?

[Janae]

No, I had no idea he cried until, like, days, like, even the next day, they didn't tell me. I didn't. I didn't know. He cried until, like, the customer girls left. Like, it was insane. So the second that happened, I told production, I'm leaving. I'm. I'm walking off set. But you're not allowed to walk off set. But guess what? I don't give up.

[Kiki Palmer]

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[Janae]

So I walked off set and I was like, get me psyched now. Like, I'm losing my mind. Like, I want to go home. Were you better yet? Yes. I was like, I need to go home. I was like, I will pay any price for an Uber. Like, get me to the airport. I can't. I'm like, can you just have one conversation with Kenny? And I was like, absolutely not. Like, this is so embarrassing. Like, I'm the oldest girl at this point. The other older girl or how are you guys at home? I'm like, I'm too grown for this. Like, I don't need this. Like, he tells her that this. That's fine. Mind you, the thing that people don't understand, like, me and Kenny were together for like four days and a break day before we went to Casa More. So we look, Janet, like, why are you so attached so soon? It looked like it was only like one or two days, but it was like we had a. We had a date in the ocean. It was so beautiful. We spent the whole day. It was like a six hour film day then. And then if you had like the. The day of just like roaming around. And that day is when you would think he'd pull everyone else because he just got there. I thought, he's gonna pull live. I was gonna pull everyone else. We sat and talked that whole day. It was insane. I'm like, go pull someone else because, like, you're making me feel jealous. Kenneth. Right? The third day was a challenge, the muscle challenge. And then he picked me, right? And then the fourth day was a break day. Fifth day, we wake up and the customer, the boys are going to cast some more. So I felt like we had enough time to realize, like, don't try me. Yeah, don't try me. Right?

[Kiki Palmer]

Yeah.

[Janae]

So when that happened, I was like, okay, you tried it. That's cool. Bye. Right? But then they made me go back on set. I was so upset. Go back on set. We had that moment. I started crying. I gave him a hug. I was like, I genuinely wish nothing but the best. Go for her. Because what you're not gonna do is pick between two girls.

[Kiki Palmer]

I'm not playing that game.

[Janae]

Could never be me, right? So I said, bye. And then I walk off set. I tell. I talk to psych. I'm like, give me an Uber right now. But while that's happening, he sees Leah and Serena and starts crying in their arms. Like, obviously I should feel bad. I'm like, as you should. Yeah.

[Kiki Palmer]

I love the tears, me.

[Janae]

Are you good?

[Kiki Palmer]

I loved it. And I was happy when it came too, because I wanted that moment for you and I wanted to know that he was a good guy, you know, And I did end up feeling that way. I mean, now having been together for a year and some change, like, what do you think has impacted your relationship and made it stronger? How have you guys been able to grow? I mean, time can do it, but I mean, were there, is there anything else you would say?

[Janae]

Yeah, I guess. Like, okay, so he's Catholic, I'm Baptist. But he keeps on going to Baptist churches for me, which I am. So great. So beautiful. My man, right? So like, my favorite thing to do with him, I'm so serious, is to go to church. Yeah, I see that. How he gets really, like, puts his hands in the air, we're praying, Bible study, all stuff. We want to start doing like a Bible study series on like on Tik Tok, because we're just so cute. But my favorite part about him is his relationship with God. Because if you have a relationship with God, that's all you need. You see what I'm saying? Like everything else I know, my mom is back shaking her head. Yeah.

[Kiki Palmer]

What?

[Janae]

Yes, you know, so, so like that's my favorite part, right? That's my only priority. I'm like, you got to be a child of God. Everything else will be like, fine. So the fact that he told me that like he like went to like a Quaker school. Not.

[Kiki Palmer]

Not familiar either.

[Janae]

Me either.

[Kiki Palmer]

That's what you think. I heard a question mark in your voice. I said same.

[Janae]

The first thing he told us on the villa. He went to a Quaker school. Like, what's that? It's like it's a Catholic school that doesn in violence grade. I said, what's the Catholic school that does? Like, what is that?

[Kiki Palmer]

What's that called?

[Janae]

That's crazy. But yeah, so like, I don't know, like what brought us closer together is definitely just like the religion based relationship. And like we very barely get quality time. But like, I love barely get quality time. Why? Yeah, like quality time wasn't like a whole day. Like we never had a whole day of nothing. Like either. I got to go do something, cuz y' all are working and they're always working. Love a job, love a job. God is good. Love a job. Keep me in play, please. Okay. But yeah, it's very like rare. But we go on trips together. Even when we go on trips, we have to make sure we get like the content or whatever. So technically we do have a lot of quality time. But like when we're just like chilling in bed watching like tv, a show, just like Uber Eats, like that's my favorite, but I know. Hey, no makeup on. He likes to rub my braids.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yes, Yes.

[Janae]

I get home from Marquis. Let me help you. I don't love Blade. Yes. He loves rubbing my braids. I was like, go ahead, Kenny.

[Kiki Palmer]

One thing I love that we saw on the show, too, that I think, again, like, obviously it's about love, but what was cool about you and PPG and just the girls on the show was that you guys encouraged each other to have the love that maybe sometimes we don't even want for ourselves. How do you feel your friendships impacted your ability to maintain, you know, not even just this relationship with Kenny, but how you view love in general? Because when your girls are holding you down and loving you, I think it really lets you know, like, if my home. If my homegirls are treating me better than that, this. Then I don't need this, you know? So how did that impact your view of love?

[Janae]

You're so right. Oh, my gosh. That's such a good question. So, like, obviously, my roster wasn't the best.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yeah, at least she had a roster. It's hot out here.

[Janae]

No, believe it's not a be running through them. Believe me, I was running them, sent them home, everything. But, like, that's such a good. I saw how, like, what they went through, and that was very motivating. Like, if Serena can forgive Cordell, who Jesus proud of her, I can forgive Kenny, you know, I mean, like, mine wasn't that deep, so, like, that was very motivational. And then, like, every time I have a conversation with a guy, I'd run back to them and they'd be like, jana, do you not know how pretty you are, how smart you are, how kind you are? Like, don't you ever settle? Like, they reminded me never, ever to settle. So I have to send the first one home. You feel me? And then the second one, that's a whole other story. But, like, when I would talk to my girls and been to them, they would just remind me, like, yes. Like, that's so good. Like, you're being open, you're being fumble. Good job. Or like, no, Janae, like, you're better than this. Like, absolutely. You know, I mean, like, they just, like, motivated me and they reminded me of who I was, even though we just met. It was so insane. But, like, I was so grateful without them. Like, who know? Who knows?

[Kiki Palmer]

That was the best thing to see because I think with love, falling in love, desiring love, having a great foundation of friends, family, of course, but, like, really good friends.

[Janae]

Yeah.

[Kiki Palmer]

It's so important to see, and we saw that for you girls, so I love that. Now, another thing about PPG was y' all was sneaky. Okay. Going on missions, we was nosy.

[Janae]

That was our job. Yeah.

[Kiki Palmer]

What was the best. Best tea that you found? That wasn't shown, if you can remember.

[Janae]

Oh, my gosh. Yes. Okay. So because PPG originally, we were tlc. Oh.

[Kiki Palmer]

A couple parts are sexy.

[Janae]

Cool. You see? Yes. But, like, you know, we only know we can't sing the songs in the villa, so we tend to ppg Pop up gang. And we would do cartwheels, backflips, crawl around. Right. The craziest one, which they didn't air and production actually was for. Can you guys get down? Like, stop being nosy. It was when Sierra. She the girl from Casa More. Yeah. She was with Miguel. Now Leah and Miguel are back to a thing, so she started to explore other things, and then she decided to go with the guy that Liv brought back. Kane. Right. Kane, unbeknownst to us, was very handsome, very sweet, very kind, but a little bit on the jealous side. Right? So a new bombshell comes in, and it's Harrison.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yeah.

[Janae]

Right? Harrison pulls Ciara for a date. Kane loses his because he's just, like, absolutely not. Like, why would she agree to that? But Harrison got a text and, like, sent a text to, like, she had to go just. Yeah, she got picked. Right. So we wanted to know so bad, because we knew that while she's on a date, Kane's, like, irritated. Like, if she. If she likes him, then that's it for us. And blah, blah. We're like, what? Like, this is how the show goes. Like, have you not seen this show? Like, you got to be okay with her talking to other guys. So she comes back, and then she's like, we. Like, how did it go? And she tells us, like, oh, I actually really like him. And we were like, you gotta go tell Kane. She's like, yeah, I'm gonna tell him. So she goes to tell Kane, but we know that Kane's feeling some type of way, like, if she likes him, then we're done. Like, I'm not gonna pick her. And. Right. So ppg, we go, ladies assemble. So when they go have that conversation, we crawl up the stairs, and we can hear him, like, just letting you know, like, if that's what you want, then we should cut off things here. And she's just like. So all we heard her say specifically was, so if I tell you, if I go on another date with Him. You're gonna cut me off. And he was like, absolutely. Like, it was insane. So then we go, go, oh, no, this is good. So we're listening. And then the producers are like, get down. Like, you can't listen to that one. Like, we're listening to that one. I'm like, no. Like, respect the privacy. And we're like, boo. So then we crawled backwards, and when she tells us what happened, we had to act, like, surprised. Like, he said, what, girl? Yeah, we heard it. It was insane. But that was the craziest one. They didn't show that one. That's my favorite one. That's my favorite mission. We've been on a lot of missions. We went on so many missions. And I think you guys only saw, like, one or two. Yeah. When we got the villa and you guys knew what PPG was, like, how did you guys know what PPG was? Because we only did a couple of missions. And, like, I didn't know that they aired, like, only one or two. But we did. Like, we were nosy. We were. What we don't like is when a girl doesn't stand on business. So when girls came in, like, how was your conversation with Rob? Oh, it's good. What did you talk about? Like, you know. No, we don't know. Tell us. Oh, like, you know, like. Okay, fine. So the next time we had a conversation, we just got nosy. We snuck in and literally heard it for ourselves. Yeah. Oh, my gosh.

[Kiki Palmer]

Okay, so tell me if you can, because I know you guys have a group chat. What is the most, like, the last text in the group chat out of context that you can share?

[Janae]

Okay, not that one. Let me scroll. Not that one either. I have, like, photographic memories, almost. Like. No, I don't. We gonna get canceled. Okay, we can.

[Kiki Palmer]

Oh, my God.

[Janae]

No. We're gonna get canceled.

[Kiki Palmer]

It's so bad.

[Janae]

Okay, I will say. Okay, so, Leah, Miguel, they have, like, this big baby because they want to, like, practice being, like, parents, right? And the baby cries and whines and, oh, my gosh, I feel like I'm.

[Kiki Palmer]

In a Boy Meets with World episode.

[Janae]

Yes. And so we were like, leah, how's it going? Leah, how's it going? And stuff. And let's just say in the nicest way. I don't think she wants to be a parent anytime soon. She's like, come get this damn baby. She was just like, it won't stop crying. Like, all it does is cry. She said she tossed it to Miguel. Thank God he caught it. Mind you, it's a fake baby. Like, you have to practice like, it's fake just now. Get this baby away from me.

[Kiki Palmer]

And we're just like, I'm telling you, a baby having a baby. Fake baby. You know, it will do. It will definitely show you a lot about your relationship.

[Janae]

Yes. And I. Babies had it for, like, an hour at the park. And I could understand her pain. Like, it just kept on crying. Mind you, it's fake. So when production wasn't looking, I just pulled the battery out. I was a baby here. Yes. And then it went to sleep. It went to sleep now for a very long time. Yes.

[Kiki Palmer]

Howling so how's everything going with this new show? I mean, the fact that you guys have a show of your own, that's never been. As far as I know, that's never been done. That's never happened before. A spin off in this way. So how's it been filming it?

[Janae]

Like a roller coaster. Like, in a good way.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yeah. Because it's in the real world. You're not like, in a villa. It's not as, you know, controlled of an environment. Like, exactly. Your friends and family on the show.

[Janae]

Yeah, we get to bring in our friends. So my best friend was on. I think Kayla's, like, family is on. You're right. You can really bring any if you want to. Come on, please come. You should have lunch with us.

[Kiki Palmer]

Are we on now?

[Janae]

Yes, we're actively filming now. Oh, no. I don't know. We gotta prove. It's so hard to get approval for things, but you should come to lunch. Like me and Serena.

[Kiki Palmer]

Oh, my gosh. I would love. Because we do as we sit down, and I've only. Serena didn't get to come on the show like this. I know.

[Janae]

She told me to FaceTime you before you go.

[Kiki Palmer]

Oh, my gosh. Yeah. Like, I really, really loved it. But it's so funny because I met Serena, like, at the NAACP Awards, like, a year prior or something before she did the show. And I didn't even realize, but I was like, girl, we go way back.

[Janae]

She told me she was so excited.

[Kiki Palmer]

It was so good. So I would love to. I could literally live. I'd be like, hey, y', all, so what's T, Boo? I would live for that.

[Janae]

Can we add that to the list, please? Can we add.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yes.

[Janae]

But it's active right now. We're like, halfway through. Okay. It was like eight weeks, right?

[Kiki Palmer]

What do you think some of the themes and the topics would be of the. I mean, I know you don't get to see it Ed.

[Janae]

Yeah, that's the thing. So they told us that it would be a show where like they follow us around, like our daily lives and like just like an everyday thing. And like, that's what it is for the most part. But like being in la, we just thought like, like I think the perfect opportunity is for them to air like to record this. Cuz this is what I like. I get to go on podcast, I meet like my idols and stuff like that, you know, queen and like, you know, like we fly around doing like the most crazy stuff. They're not really grasping that and I think that's what we thought it was. They're grasping like very intimate moments. Like, like we all went to like Serena's house and Serena and Lee and I really opened up about personal things that we never thought we would. But like, give us a glass of wine and give us a glass and here we go, baby. You know what I'm saying? Yes. But it's been like up and down. There's a lot of cast members. There's like 11 of us. Right. And we just didn't know the full cast.

[Kiki Palmer]

Do I know get to know who's all.

[Janae]

Yeah. So obviously me, Leah, Serena, Cordell, Kenny, Miguel, Kendall. Live, Kaylor, Aaron and Connor.

[Kiki Palmer]

Okay, now what's the tea with Kendall? Yeah. Cause there's a lot going on there and a lot of the people was like. A lot of the people were like feeling like he was microaggressive.

[Janae]

There's been conversations around that.

[Kiki Palmer]

You know what I mean? Like, Kendall, how did y' all feel inside the house? Yeah.

[Janae]

So Kendall is so like, it sucks. We all view each other as like family. You know what I mean? He's like that annoying little brother. Yeah, like, annoying little brother doesn't mean to be annoying. But like, so I tell people all the time, Kendall is messy, but he doesn't mean to be messy. I.

[Kiki Palmer]

That's how messy people are.

[Janae]

You see what I'm saying? Like, well, like, he had such a good relationship with Serena. We all had good relationships. So when we watched back the show and saw how he was like egging Cordell to like be Team Daya over Serena, it really hurts Serena's feelings. Like, we didn't see that happening. I'm like, damn, I didn't see that coming in. He had like, a lot of times, like, by the way, I was kind of messy, but he just kind of like avoided it. So it wasn't until we watched us, we're like, damn, Kendall, you're actually kind of an op. But not really. But an op. And then I saw like, what. He backed her up in a corner, I guess is what they're saying. That very, like, frustrated everyone. I wish I was there. I was like, I don't remember him backing up. You know, I would have been there. So. Serena, I'm so sorry that wasn't there. She's like, it's fine. Like, it was just like in the kitchen. I'm like, no, it's not okay. Like, he shouldn't have done that. Especially from a black man to a black woman, you don't do that. We supposed to have each other's back all the time. So it was very disappointing. I talked to him, he apologized to her. You know, since then, it's like, it's like whatever is. But like, even outside the villa, the only people other than ppg, like, we've been like a. Like glue. Like we're always together. The only people that, like, hang out with the others is like, me and Kenny. Cuz Kendall and Kenny both lived in Dallas. Yeah. Yeah. So Kendall just moved to LA right before the show aired. But before that they were like, you know, so whenever I went to go visit Kenny, Kendall's always like, around, but in a good way. Whatever. So. So yeah, I had to stop him A few.

[Kiki Palmer]

Even though those moments were uncomfortable, I do think they gave the opportunity for. For us to talk about things on reality TV in a way that we never had before. Like on the new show. Do you guys get to at least explore that topic or talk about what those boundaries look like? Do you guys get to go into some of the. Yeah. The dynamics that we saw on the show in a more deeper kind of like, hey, let's talk about it type way.

[Janae]

Yeah. Yeah. So I don't know if they're gonna air at all, but like, we gave our two cents after watching it and like, you know, like, we hate how some things were cut. You know, if I'm being honest. Yeah. And we got to talk more like I'm avoiding a specific someone because I just don't, like, care to.

[Kiki Palmer]

Who is he?

[Janae]

I'll think of the cast. I'll give you the. I'll give you the last. Liv Kaylor. Kendall, Aaron Connor. One of those. I just don't care to associate myself with it just because, like, it's. There's no beef, there's no nothing. But like, since before the show that we're filming now, in between Love island and this show, I've never hung out with like. Like him.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yeah.

[Janae]

And like, I Never cared to you. Because once you, like, talk about me, do me dirty, like, it's cool. Like, I'm just gonna cut you off. And now we're on the show where, like, I kind of have to be in the same space, but even if there wasn't cameras, when I don't mess, like, I don't care to be around someone, I just don't. You know, I mean, like, an op, I don't associate myself with ops. So it's kind of been, like, annoying in that sense because I didn't think he would get cast just because. What's the reason? No offense, like, but, you know, I can't take him out people's plates. That's just, like, I wasn't raised that way, so I got to let it go. But, like, keep your distance from me. But, like, things like that, like, has.

[Kiki Palmer]

The distance been kept respectfully, yes.

[Janae]

Yes. And production knows if I were to see him in a vicinity, drop my mic and on about my way, you know, they don't have to play about me, but. But I know eventually we're gonna have to be in the same room eventually, and, like, there's gonna have to be a conversation that needs to, like, happen. But, like, I personally just don't care for it. Like, it's still 2024, and that's me, you know?

[Kiki Palmer]

I mean, like, I'm good. A.

[Janae]

It's like, that was so last year. Let it go. But out of respect and love for my supporters. Yeah, I know that they're like, jenna, go get that apology. He deserved that apology. Like, we want that apology. I'm like, y' all want the apology, but I don't want the apology. Like, I don't care for it. Like, I'm good. You know what I mean? But so, like, that's. That's, like, I can't wait to see.

[Kiki Palmer]

What that dynamic is going to be looking like. So the show is obviously called beyond the Villa. We finally get to see life beyond the Villa. I'm very excited. It is Kendall, Liv, Aaron, Kayla, obviously, Serena, Cordell, Kenny, you. And, you know, I'm excited to see this show and to see what all it explores and these intimate conversations they get. Like, what's going on with my folks after the show?

[Janae]

This is so.

[Kiki Palmer]

It's so exciting, and congratulations on it.

[Janae]

Seriously. Thank you so much.

[Kiki Palmer]

Now, I mean, our interview, I guess it has to come to an end.

[Janae]

No, we're having so much fun.

[Kiki Palmer]

I know. But before you leave, I would love.

[Janae]

To play a game.

[Kiki Palmer]

Okay. Now, this game is Going to be putting the girl in girl's girl. So pretty much it's called Villa or villain. And I'm going to read you some situations. And if you side with the girls, you're going to say Villa. And if you side with the man, you're going to say villain. Okay.

[Janae]

Are you ready? The guys are okay.

[Kiki Palmer]

Your girl says she saw your new man on a dating app. He says she's lying. Villa or villain?

[Janae]

100%. Villa. Okay.

[Kiki Palmer]

You believe in the girl?

[Janae]

Yes.

[Kiki Palmer]

Period.

[Janae]

Cause what girl lie about that? Men lie. When no girl lie about that, then, yeah. Crazy.

[Kiki Palmer]

I love that. Okay, your boyfriend asks you to miss your best friend's birthday for an NBA game. Villa or villain? I mean, obviously we know, right?

[Janae]

It's Villa that's so messed up. Villa. I cut him up for asking a dumb question and I. And he's missing the NBA too. And he's coming to the birthday, like, what? Period? Cause you don't care about the game.

[Kiki Palmer]

You got tickets. It's the only way that makes sense. Okay, you see your girl making eyes at your man at the club, but she denies it when you confront her. Villa or villain. You know what the answer is.

[Janae]

Yeah, she's the villain.

[Kiki Palmer]

Boo. Yeah, I'm believing the guy in that scenario because I seen you. I seen you with my own eyes. I ain't my man.

[Janae]

Come on.

[Kiki Palmer]

I ain't my man. No, no, no. Okay. Your boyfriend hears that your friend was running her mouth about you. Villa or villain? Who you believe in?

[Janae]

My man? I'm believing.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yeah, it's villain all day, cuz.

[Janae]

He would do something like that.

[Kiki Palmer]

He wouldn't just lie about that ex. And. And how did he know what this information.

[Janae]

Type if.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yeah, you know what I mean? Type.

[Janae]

Yeah. Type. I feel like these situations, like real. I'm like. Hold on, hold on. Who? No, I'm kidding.

[Kiki Palmer]

Seriously, who said that? Portia.

[Janae]

Okay.

[Kiki Palmer]

Your friends plan a girls trip, but your boo wants to make it a couple weekend. You know what you're saying?

[Janae]

Sorry, baby. Villa.

[Kiki Palmer]

Villa, come on. We can't do that. I don't want to be the girl that's hiding. I gotta bring my man. No, leave his ass at home. That's too much when that happens. And we all love it. We love him so bad. He's so much fun when it's just us two.

[Janae]

I'm about to cry.

[Kiki Palmer]

But that's not what's happening, Bags.

[Janae]

You're the funniest person you know. I'm not lying.

[Kiki Palmer]

Okay, last one. You and your friend like the same man, and he's coming between you two. Villa or villain?

[Janae]

Na. Not applicable. Cause that could never happen. Nice try.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yeah, girls.

[Janae]

Girl, though. Obviously Villa. But, like, could never happen.

[Kiki Palmer]

Obviously Villa. But what if she says villain and she chooses him?

[Janae]

Then that's not my friend. We gotta fight. I'm just kidding. You're not gonna fight. You. Not right now. I'm kidding. No, that'd be crazy.

[Kiki Palmer]

That's a tough one. But that is the last one. And I've had so much fun with you, Jeanette.

[Janae]

Thank you so much for having me.

[Kiki Palmer]

One last thing before you go. I mean, what's up? What's next for you? We talked about all the entrepreneurship going on. I know you recently did an interview. You just did an interview with Adochi. I did. I mean, are we gonna see you do more hosting? Like, more public speaking?

[Janae]

Yes. Okay. So, like, my top inspiration is, like, you're one of them. Yes. The way you run the show and everything you do. I just love everything about you. I can never be, like, an actress or anything. Like, I could.

[Kiki Palmer]

You think so? Yes, girl.

[Janae]

So, like, I have this bucket list. Like, I never. Like, I love hosting. Like, you could just be free, and it's, like, how you are. You think so?

[Kiki Palmer]

La la. Anthony style. You're giving us roles, you're giving us actors, you're giving us NBA. I mean, I don't know what.

[Janae]

Kenny.

[Kiki Palmer]

He's not an athlete, but he looks like one. He's expensive, but matches.

[Janae]

Yes. I love it. But I have this thing right now. I just say yes to everything until I figure out what it is. Come on, Shonda. Ron. Yes.

[Kiki Palmer]

Year of yes.

[Janae]

You're of yes. Yeah. I keep on saying yes, but as of now, like, what do I like? I like the whole hosting. It seems like so much fun, and.

[Kiki Palmer]

We need that for the next generation. Back in the day, people would pop up out of the reality tv, and they're like, it's me, your host. Like, oh, girl from Bachelor. She's Rachel Lind. Yes. I mean, she's not got her own. I mean, she came from the Bachelorette period. Or the Bachelorette. You know which one.

[Janae]

Yes.

[Kiki Palmer]

But I can see that. And we're manifesting that in Jesus name. And I can't wait to come on your show.

[Janae]

Thank you. Love to have you.

[Kiki Palmer]

Yes.

[Janae]

Thanks so much, Jena. Thank you.

[Kiki Palmer]

Ooh, take me back to the villa, y'.

[Janae]

All.

[Kiki Palmer]

That conversation gave me life. And Janae's confidence is a whole vibe. I will be seated to see what the PPG is getting into this summer. And there's Zodiac pairing. I mean, Kenny's a Pisces. Pisces. She's a Sagittarius. I am manifesting a Love island engagement. Janae is such a perfect example of why we need more unapologetic black love and friendships on reality tv. We need to see real people, not just actors, experiencing the full spectrum of emotions on screen, from heartbreak to unconditional love or being a little messy now and then. You know, the more that shows spotlight our stories, the more we spread that love. Now, that's what it's about. Until next time.

[Janae]

You know, it's your girl.