Bevy Smith on Grief, Growth, and ‘In Bed with Bevy’

Bevy Smith, known for her authenticity, has launched a new YouTube series, “In Bed with Bevy.” Far from a typical celebrity interview show, this project emerged not from a place of triumph, but from a period of profound grief and stillness. At 59, Smith is embracing reinvention once again, inspired by her own experiences and a desire to explore the often-overlooked “middle” phase of life.

Navigating Grief and the ‘Middle’

Smith candidly shared the emotional weight of losing both her parents, describing herself as feeling like an “old orphan” at 59. This profound loss, coupled with a realization that she had achieved many of her long-held dreams yet still felt unsatisfied, led her to a period of despondency. “I’m literally living in my dreamscape… I’ve done those things. And then you get there and you’re like, yeah, this is great, but I’m not really that satisfied,” she told TheGrio.

This feeling of being “stuck,” yet successful, inspired Smith to finally pursue an idea she’d had for over two decades: “In Bed with Bevy.” The show intentionally features “Googleable” guests—well-known individuals who remain relatable and are willing to share the messy, in-between parts of their journeys, not just the polished end results.

The Power of Vulnerability and Authenticity

Smith believes that “being in the middle” signifies growth and evolution, not failure. She aims to create a space where guests can be vulnerable and truthful about their current journeys, a quality that “eliminates a lot of different types of people.” This focus on authenticity is key to the show’s appeal, offering viewers insights that feel accessible and real.

The series intentionally pushes back against the notion that Black audiences only tune in for celebrity names or that advice from the ultra-wealthy is universally relatable. Smith emphasizes that the messenger’s journey matters as much as the message itself. Guests like Scott Evans and Justin Sylvester have shared powerful stories of navigating career changes and personal growth, often embracing their “middle” moments with courage.

Embracing the Journey

The latest episode features Food Network’s Sunny Anderson, who discusses her feelings of not always fitting in and learning to navigate life’s unexpected turns. Smith hopes viewers, particularly Black women who may be struggling with similar feelings of being “in the middle,” will take away the message that they are not alone.

You have to be willing to be vulnerable. You have to be willing to tell the truth about the journey that you’re on right now. So that takes honesty and authenticity. — Bevy Smith

Smith encourages viewers to confront their own satisfaction with their current lives, urging them to stand still, look in the mirror, and ask if they are truly content. This self-reflection, she believes, is the first step toward discovering what more life has to offer. “God didn’t put you on this earth to feel that way. And I know there’s more for you,” she stated.

To further support this journey of self-discovery, Smith is hosting “Dining with Bevy: Life with Vision,” an application-based brunch event in New York City on May 23rd. The experience is designed to help individuals interrogate their lives and find actionable steps toward fulfillment.