Tampa Bay’s 10 Leading Ladies 2012: Jenn Greacen

November 26, 2013 | South Tampa Magazine | Categories: 10 Leading Women, Editorial, People | Tags: Highland Productions, Jenn Greacen, The Clear Agency

Jenn Greacen

CEO/Founder Highland Productions LLC and Executive Director The Clear Agency

 

Jenn Greacen of Seminole was done working and meeting clients at coffee shops. The mother of four dreamed of building a space where freelance creative arts professionals would have a totally free workplace to work, brainstorm and build their careers. The result of Jenn’s ambitious efforts was Clear Labs, a nonprofit agency in St. Petersburg that provides computers, workspace, software and, for some, scholarships and job opportunities.

 

As a leading lady, what is one of your proudest accomplishments?

Looking back on the last 10 years and where I was (at a dining room table with just an idea and a vision) and where we are now is certainly awesome. I’m proud of every success (and every failure) that has brought me to this point. But more than anything, I am most proud of and blessed to have four healthy, smart, beautiful and happy children.

How do you like to unwind?

I love to watch movies and read. We are lucky there are so many fun places to be entertained in Tampa Bay, and our office in downtown St Pete is at the heart of it all. But with all the hustle of my life, my truly favorite event is a nice bottle of a wine and a book or a movie, cuddled up on my couch with the dogs and my family.

Who do you most admire in Tampa Bay?

I admire Nick Friedman, co-founder and president of College Hunks Hauling Junk. I’ve had the opportunity to get to know him very well personally and professionally, as I serve on the CHHJ Advisory board. He is really a special kind of visionary and very hard worker. He has this ability to just put his nose to the grindstone and make it happen and as a leader, people love him and want to follow his vision.

Which Bay-area spots do you take your out-of-town guests to really show off our city?

I live today in the same area I was born and raised, so of course I love to take guests to the beach, tell them about the history (what used to be there before that condo was built etc.) a stop into the seabird sanctuary or boating into John’s Pass. A trip to Tarpon Springs and the sponge docks is always a hit, and The Salvador Dali Museum and the Tampa Theater are lovely for art or history fans. A special favorite is Heritage Park and museum. Jarrett and I were married in the small church in the park.

Finish this sentence: The best meal in town is anything eaten in my dining room or on my pool deck.

What are you currently reading?

The Hunger Games, only because I want to know what my oldest daughter is reading and why it’s been such a hot trend for her and her friends (and make sure it was appropriate).

Who would you pick for a dream date?

I would truly love to have my father back for just one day. He passed away when I was 12 and I would love to have more time.

Favorite album of all time:

It would be a toss between U2’s “The Joshua Tree” and Counting Crows’ “August and Everything After.”

Who is your favorite hero of fiction?

Anne Shirley from Anne of Green Gables.

Any hidden talents?

I am a hobbyist filmmaker

Do you have a motto or words of wisdom that you live by?

“Only do what only you can do.” My mentor Deanne Roberts shared that with me.

 

Crustless Quiche

 

Ingredients:

1 package of smoked sausage

8 eggs lightly beaten

1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream

1 ½ teaspoons dry mustard

¼ teaspoon salt

⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper

1 ½ cups (6 oz.) shredded cheddar cheese, divided

½ cup of green bell pepper

 

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350° F. Cut sausage into ½” cubes; set aside. Place eggs, cream, dry mustard, salt and black pepper in a large bowl; whisk until smooth.

2. Stir in sausage, 1 cup of cheese and green pepper. Pour egg mixture into a greased 13×9-inch baking dish.

3. Bake 40-45 minutes or until eggs are set. Sprinkle with remaining ½ cup of cheese.

Let stand 5 minutes before serving.