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Tag: Mompreneurs

  • Florida Org Empowers Teen Moms with Wellness Retreat

    In Central Florida, a remarkable organization is dedicated to supporting teen mothers, helping them rewrite their narratives and thrive. Mentoring Agency for Maternal Adolescents, Inc. (MAMA Inc.), founded by Altrichia Cook Wilcox, recently hosted its fourth annual Mother’s Day B.R.E.A.K Away experience—a transformative day focused on healing, self-care, and celebration for young mothers.

    Overcoming Adversity, Embracing Purpose

    Altrichia Cook Wilcox knows firsthand the challenges faced by teen mothers. At 17, she navigated a high school pregnancy but refused to become a statistic. Defying the odds—where less than 2% of teen moms graduate college by 30 and only 50% get a high school diploma by 22—Wilcox earned both her undergraduate and master’s degrees while working and raising her son. Today, she and her husband, the father of her children, are happily married and raising their second child.

    Inspired by her journey, Wilcox established MAMA Inc. in 2014. The nonprofit serves teen and young mothers in Lakeland, Polk County, and the Tampa Bay area, offering vital mentorship, educational support, life-skills training, and community resources. The Mother’s Day B.R.E.A.K Away event, held on May 3rd, is a cornerstone of their mission, providing a guilt-free day of pampering and restoration for mothers who have overcome significant adversity.

    A Day of Healing and Celebration

    This year’s B.R.E.A.K Away experience, held in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, focused on emotional restoration and self-care. Attendees, including former teen and college mothers, corporate leaders, business owners, and military veterans, participated in a range of rejuvenating activities. These included healing yoga, guided breathwork sessions, stress-management workshops, mini massages, restorative facials, and professional glam services.

    The day culminated in an upscale dinner at Ocean Prime Tampa, a testament to MAMA Inc.’s partnership with Cameron Mitchell Restaurants. Wilcox emphasized the profound impact of the event, stating, “Standing in a room filled with young moms and former teen mothers thriving in their purpose reminded me why this work matters so deeply. Its impact on our community is undeniable: when we pour into mothers, we strengthen families, and when we strengthen families, we change futures.”

    Investing in Mothers, Changing Futures

    The B.R.E.A.K Away experience serves as more than just a day of pampering; it’s a lifeline of hope, dignity, and restoration. By providing these essential resources and celebrating the resilience of young mothers, MAMA Inc. is making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and strengthening the fabric of the community, one mother at a time.

    What do you think about the incredible work MAMA Inc. is doing? Share your thoughts on supporting young mothers in the comments below!

  • Juvia’s Place Beauty Booth Shines at Women To Know Breakfast

    The recent “Women To Know: Founding Mothers” breakfast, hosted by HelloBeautiful and MadameNoire, was a beautiful celebration of Black women’s achievements. Amidst a stunning setting in Times Square, guests enjoyed a catered meal and custom cocktails, but the real star of the show was the Juvia’s Place Beauty Booth.

    A Hub for Beauty Secrets and Inspiration

    Sponsored by Juvia’s Place, the textured green confessional booth, adorned with the brand’s golden moniker, became a central attraction. It invited attendees, including the event’s cover stars Danessa Myricks, Janell Stephens, and Ashunta Sheriff, to step inside and share their personal beauty secrets and insights in response to thoughtful prompts.

    This interactive activation provided a unique space for guests to connect and share their perspectives on beauty, self-love, and empowerment. It was a testament to Juvia’s Place’s commitment to celebrating beauty in all its forms.

    Cover Stars Share Their Beauty Philosophies

    Our “Women To Know” cover stars shared inspiring thoughts within the booth. Danessa Myricks, a celebrated beauty entrepreneur, reflected, “I certainly feel the most beautiful when I’m in service of someone else. I think it’s no better feeling when you can add value to someone’s life, make them feel good about themselves, celebrate someone.”

    Celebrity PR representative Syreta Oglesby offered her take on getting ready: “You have to always remember you are the main character in your own life. It’s your ascending and it’s also your attitude when you wake up in the morning. Make sure you settle in for the day so you have an amazing day because it also radiates from the inside out.” These sentiments beautifully captured the essence of inner and outer beauty celebrated at the event.

    Celebrating Black Women’s Excellence

    The “Women To Know” breakfast was more than just an event; it was a powerful gathering honoring the contributions and influence of Black women in various industries. The Juvia’s Place Beauty Booth added a fun, engaging element that allowed attendees to express themselves and connect on a deeper level.

    The successful activation, produced by @iamrenaebluitt and featuring a booth by @clicknitphotobooth, underscored the importance of creating spaces where Black women can be celebrated, share their stories, and inspire one another. It was a true embodiment of Black women’s excellence.

    What are your go-to beauty secrets? Share them in the comments below!

  • Mompreneur Johane Filemon on Gut Health

    Meet Johane Filemon, a board-certified Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and mom of five who’s on a powerful mission: to help people heal from the inside out. Through her company, Wonderfully Nutritious Solutions, Filemon is dedicated to educating us about the profound connection between what we eat and our overall well-being, especially when it comes to gut health.

    Food as Medicine: Finding the Root Cause

    Filemon’s philosophy is simple yet impactful: “Food is medicine.” She emphasizes that our dietary choices can either reverse symptoms or contribute to harm. When clients come to her, her goal isn’t just to manage symptoms but to uncover the root cause of their health issues. “What you’re eating, and the quality of your food, influences a lot of the symptoms that you’re experiencing,” she explains.

    Her journey began when she herself experienced unexplained health problems after passing her board exams. After struggling to find answers, she discovered she had an H. pylori infection that damaged her gut. Frustrated with conventional treatments, Filemon turned to research and became her own first patient, identifying foods her body tolerated well and reversing her symptoms within 14 days by allowing her gut to heal.

    The Crucial Role of Gut Health

    Filemon highlights that gut health is the foundation of our overall wellness. “If your digestive system is not functioning as it should, it starts impacting everything else,” she states. She points out that many common diagnoses, like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease, can stem from an improperly functioning gut microbiome, which begins developing from birth.

    She cautions against ultra-processed foods common in the U.S., which are often loaded with preservatives that disrupt the microbiome. Instead, she advocates for whole foods rich in fiber, antioxidants, and nutrients that actively support healing and balance within the body.

    From Side Hustle to Full-Time Mompreneur

    Filemon successfully transitioned her passion into a full-time venture during the pandemic. Having already established a virtual presence for her practice since 2014, the shift to remote work was smoother for her than for many colleagues. This allowed her to dedicate more time to helping people achieve better health through nutrition.

    As a mother of five, Filemon is motivated by her children, wanting them to see the power of leadership and success through hard work. She also emphasizes the importance of community and a strong support system, or “village,” for mothers navigating both family and business life. “Whether it’s family or friends, we need to have that village—that village is so important in what we’re doing.”

    What are your biggest takeaways about gut health from Johane Filemon? Share your thoughts and any personal experiences in the comments below!

  • Mompreneur Johane Filemon: Gut Health & Healing

    What if the key to healing and preventing disease wasn’t in a prescription, but on your plate? Nutrition expert Johane Filemon, a board-certified Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and mother of five, is on a powerful mission: to help people heal from the inside out. She joined the Mompreneurs podcast to share how our food choices profoundly impact everything from digestion to overall wellness.

    Food as Medicine: The Root Cause Approach

    Filemon’s philosophy is simple yet profound: “Food is medicine. The foods we eat can help reverse our body’s symptoms, or it can harm.” Since founding Wonderfully Nutritious Solutions in 2014, she’s focused on personalized nutrition counseling that digs deep to find the root cause of health issues, rather than just managing symptoms. “What you’re eating, and the quality of your food, influences a lot of the symptoms that you’re experiencing,” she emphasizes.

    This dedication stems from her own health journey. After passing her board exams, Filemon experienced unexplained health issues. Despite seeking answers across Atlanta, she noticed a pattern: certain foods worsened her symptoms. This led her to discover she had H. pylori, a bacterial infection impacting her gut. Frustrated with the limitations of harsh antibiotics, she turned to intensive research and became her own first patient.

    Healing the Gut, Healing the Body

    Through targeted testing, Filemon identified foods her body tolerated best, allowing her system to calm down, reduce inflammation, and heal her gut. She reversed her symptoms in just 14 days. This personal triumph fuels her passion for helping others prevent disease by addressing inflammation, which she notes is often the silent precursor to many common ailments.

    The importance of the gut microbiome is gaining recognition, and Filemon highlights its foundational role in health. “If your digestive system is not functioning as it should, it starts impacting everything else,” she explains. Conditions like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease can all stem from gut health issues, which begin developing from birth. She points out that many ultra-processed foods common in the U.S. contain preservatives that disrupt the microbiome, leading to these health problems.

    From Side Hustle to Full-Time Mompreneur

    Filemon transitioned her practice into a full-time venture during the pandemic. Having already established a virtual client base since 2014, the shift to remote work was smoother for her than for many colleagues. “The pandemic allowed me to focus fully on my private practice and helping as many people as I could,” she recalls.

    The Power of a Village

    As a mother of five, Filemon’s children are her primary motivation. She wants them to see the power of hard work and leadership. Her support system extends beyond her immediate family; she emphasizes the crucial role of a “village” – whether it’s family, friends, or a community – for mompreneurs navigating the challenges of building businesses and raising families.

    What are your thoughts on the connection between gut health and overall wellness? Share your experiences with nutrition and healing in the comments below!

  • Joi Brown: Building Culture Creators, One Connection at a Time

    Meet Joi Brown, a true trailblazer who has navigated the dynamic music industry and is now building a powerful platform to celebrate and empower Black innovators. As the CEO of Culture Creators, Brown has transformed her passion for bringing people together into a thriving enterprise that uplifts culture shifters and mentors the next generation of leaders.

    From Music Marketing to Cultural Leadership

    With a distinguished career as SVP of Marketing at Atlantic Records and Head of Strategic Partnerships at ICM, Joi Brown has a deep understanding of the media and entertainment landscape. However, her journey wasn’t without personal sacrifice. The demanding nature of her roles often meant missed family moments, a reality many working mothers face. “No one sees the sacrifice that goes into building other people’s dreams,” Brown shared, reflecting on the personal cost of her career.

    Now embracing life as a full-time mompreneur, Brown has turned her focus to Culture Creators, a venture she founded in 2016. Initially, she wasn’t sure what it would become, only knowing she wanted to foster connection. “I just knew that I wanted people to get together,” she explained. “I was just passionate about people, about making sure that we know that we are stakeholders in each other’s success, and that we need one another.”

    The Power of Connection: Culture Creators Awards

    The annual Culture Creators Innovators and Leaders Awards Brunch is a testament to Brown’s vision. This year’s event honored notable figures like Larry Wilmore, Joy-Ann Reid, and Keke Palmer. Brown describes the atmosphere as a “family reunion” – purposeful, supportive, and community-driven. It’s a space designed for people to connect, share stories, and collaborate.

    It’s about putting people in a room and saying: How can we collaborate? How can we break bread together, and how can we make money together? — Joi Brown, Founder & CEO of Culture Creators

    Empowering the Next Generation

    Beyond the awards, the Culture Creators Foundation plays a crucial role in mentoring and providing opportunities for diverse emerging leaders. Brown recognized a significant gap in career awareness within the entertainment industry among young people. “When I talked to them, they had no idea that there could be a job in the music industry like mine,” she noted. This realization led to the creation of educational programs and scholarships.

    Brown emphasizes the importance of access – whether it’s to funding, C-suite executives, or vital information. Culture Creators aims to be a conduit, connecting individuals with the resources they need to pursue their dreams. Her daughters are now actively involved in the business, bringing fresh energy and insights, making it a true family endeavor.

    What inspires you most about Joi Brown’s mission with Culture Creators? Share your thoughts and any advice for aspiring mompreneurs in the comments below!

  • Chanté Knox Revolutionizes Period Care with Anu Clean Cup

    Tired of periods feeling like a scene from a horror movie? Chanté Knox certainly was. She experienced heavy flow cycles filled with anxiety and constant planning around restroom availability. But instead of just enduring it, she decided to invent the solution she desperately needed, and now she’s bringing it to women everywhere.

    From Frustration to Innovation: The Birth of Anu Clean Cup

    On the latest episode of Mompreneurs, Chanté shared how her own struggles with heavy periods led her to create the Anu Clean Cup. She explained that traditional menstrual cups, while helpful, had a major drawback: messy removal. “It’s like you have to play a balancing act,” she described, likening it to carrying a glass of red wine on a white carpet.

    Knox even approached existing companies with her ideas for improvement, suggesting a cup that could better retain fluid during removal. When they dismissed her, she took matters into her own hands, determined to create a product that truly served women with heavy flows. This led to extensive research and the discovery that most products on the market were designed for lighter cycles, leaving many women underserved.

    Designed for Heavy Flow, Built with Precision

    The Anu Clean Cup is designed to tackle the unique challenges of heavy menstrual flow. Knox explained, “When you experience surging or heavy clotting, our cup retains the fluid, locks it in, and has the capacity to collect the clots so there’s no overflow.” The result? A mess-free removal process where everything stays securely inside the cup.

    Achieving this revolutionary design wasn’t easy. With a communications and journalism degree, Knox leveraged her research skills to navigate the complex and costly process of product development. It took six years and six different prototypes and molds to perfect the final design, resulting in three issued patents and two more pending. She also successfully secured funding through business competitions, grants, and pro bono legal assistance.

    Challenging Stigma and Expanding Vision

    As a heavy-flow user herself, Knox is a true testament to her product’s effectiveness. She wants every woman to experience the same confidence she now has during her period, even the freedom to wear white! Her mission extends beyond just a product; she’s actively challenging the stigma surrounding menstruation and encouraging open conversations about this fundamental aspect of womanhood.

    With her fundraising goal nearing completion, Knox is already looking ahead. Her vision includes expanding her product line to include pH balance solutions, mood support, and other innovations aimed at enhancing women’s comfort and confidence throughout their cycles. She’s not just creating products; she’s building a community and a movement.

    What are your biggest period challenges? Have you tried menstrual cups? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

  • Angela Cannon: Building AspireTV as the Epicenter of Black Culture

    In the dynamic world of media, Angela Cannon is a name synonymous with vision, leadership, and a deep commitment to amplifying Black voices. As Senior Vice President at UP Entertainment and General Manager of AspireTV, she’s not just running a network; she’s cultivating a space where Black stories, style, and success are celebrated. Cannon recently shared her inspiring journey on the ‘Mompreneurs’ podcast, discussing everything from her career path to her personal journey into motherhood.

    From Medicine to Media: A Destined Path

    Cannon’s career wasn’t a straight line. Initially studying medicine, she soon realized her true passion lay in the world of entertainment and storytelling. Moving to California, she immersed herself in the industry, driven by a desire to curate stories that resonated with audiences and, crucially, to ensure Black representation on screen. “Even back then, when I was little, I remember thinking, how come we’re not on the TV? … I remember thinking: I don’t see a lot of people that look like me on any of these shows,” she recalled, highlighting the early motivation behind her work.

    AspireTV: The Epicenter of Black Culture

    Today, Cannon leads AspireTV with a clear mission: “At AspireTV, we are the epicenter of Black culture, delivering premium entertainment that authentically represents us as a culture,” she told host Nancy Redd. She oversees marketing, operations, and programming, fostering partnerships that bring compelling projects like “Harlem Globetrotters: Secrets of the City” to life. Her goal has always been to ensure positive Black voices and authentic representation are front and center, carving a unique niche in the media landscape.

    Embracing Innovation and Mentorship

    Cannon’s success is fueled by a relentless curiosity and a commitment to continuous learning. She’s pursued education in areas like digital marketing and project management to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving media industry. Crucially, she believes in the power of her team. “It helped me to grow too,” she shared. “You can’t think that it’s only on your shoulders—it’s the team you build, and making sure they have the wherewithal to take you to that next level.”

    Her passion for mentorship is equally strong. Cannon is dedicated to empowering the next generation, encouraging young people to embrace technology, including AI. “We need to be in those conversations. We need to be the ones that are affecting how AI shows up for us as a culture,” she urged, advocating for proactive engagement rather than fear of technological change. She believes that understanding and utilizing AI is key to future career success.

    A New Chapter: Embracing Motherhood

    In her personal life, Cannon has embraced a new and deeply fulfilling chapter: motherhood. After considering various paths, including IVF and fostering, she chose adoption and welcomed a baby boy. “He is a joy, he is a blessing. And I couldn’t be prouder,” she expressed. Cannon feels a profound sense of purpose and groundedness, appreciating the financial stability that allows her to be fully present for her son. She credits her strong support system – her “village” – for being instrumental in this journey.

    What inspires you most about Angela Cannon’s journey? Share your thoughts on AspireTV’s role in Black culture or your own experiences with mentorship in the comments below!

  • Angela Cannon: Amplifying Black Culture in Media

    Ever wondered who’s behind the platforms that bring authentic Black stories to life? Meet Angela Cannon, a powerhouse media executive, proud mom, author, and entrepreneur who is making waves by championing diverse voices and mentoring the next generation. As Senior Vice President of Multicultural Networks and General Manager of AspireTV at UP Entertainment, Cannon leads with heart, transforming the network into a vibrant epicenter of Black culture.

    From Medicine to Media: A Destined Path

    Cannon’s journey into media wasn’t a straight line; it was a calling. Initially studying medicine in college, she soon realized her true passion lay in storytelling and the entertainment industry. “I had to find out what that next thing was, and it always led back to finding out more about this thing called entertainment,” she shared. This led her to California, where she developed a deep desire to curate stories that resonate with audiences and ensure representation on screen.

    Even as a child, Cannon noticed the lack of representation. “Even back then, when I was little, I remember thinking, how come we’re not on the TV? … I remember thinking: I don’t see a lot of people that look like me on any of these shows,” she recalled. This early observation fueled her drive to create a space where Black life, style, stories, and success are authentically showcased.

    Leading AspireTV: The Epicenter of Black Culture

    Today, Cannon is at the forefront of innovation at AspireTV and UP Entertainment. She oversees marketing, operations, and programming, while also forging partnerships that bring must-see projects to life, like the recent release ‘Harlem Globetrotters: Secrets of the City.’ “At AspireTV, we are the epicenter of Black culture, delivering premium entertainment that authentically represents us as a culture,” Cannon stated. Her aspiration wasn’t to run a network, but to ensure Black voices were heard and positively represented.

    Cannon’s leadership philosophy emphasizes collaboration and continuous learning. She actively pursues education in areas like digital marketing and project management to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving media landscape. “Just trying to make sure that I was ahead of the curve on what was coming down the pike,” she explained.

    Building a Team, Reaping the Benefits

    A key to Cannon’s success is her belief in empowering her team. She understands that by hiring smart, talented individuals, the entire organization benefits. “It helped me to grow too,” she shared. “You can’t think that it’s only on your shoulders—it’s the team you build, and making sure they have the wherewithal to take you to that next level.”

    Her approach fosters an environment where team members are encouraged to lead and innovate. “You manage that team, you learn from that team, you grow with that team. By hiring smarter people, you’re the one that is ultimately reaping the benefits,” she added. This collaborative spirit is crucial for navigating the complexities of the modern media industry.

    Mentoring the Next Generation and Embracing AI

    Beyond her executive role, Cannon is deeply committed to mentorship. She actively guides young people, encouraging them to make a difference and participate in shaping the future of media and technology. “I wanted to tap back into our young people and say, you can make a difference and I’m going to help get you there,” she said.

    Cannon also advocates for embracing new technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI). She believes that rather than fearing AI, we should lean into it. “It’s not that AI is going to take the jobs, it’s the people that understand how to use AI that are going to take the jobs,” she asserted. Her message is clear: stay curious, stay informed, and don’t be afraid of innovation.

    A New Chapter: Embracing Motherhood

    In a deeply personal new chapter, Cannon has embraced motherhood through adoption. “I always wanted to be a mom,” she shared. After careful consideration of various paths, including IVF and fostering, she decided to pursue adoption independently. “I figured, look, if I want to do this, I’m going to have to do it on my own.”

    She describes her adopted son as “a joy, a blessing,” and feels a profound sense of purpose and groundedness since becoming a mother. “Everything works out in the timing that it should. I feel a sense of purpose has come over me, moreso than ever before. I also feel a bit more grounded … (having the) financial stability to be there for him like I would want to be.” Cannon credits her strong support system of family and friends for helping her navigate this new journey.

    What are your thoughts on Angela Cannon’s work in media and her commitment to representation? Share your insights in the comments below!

  • Filmmaker Crystle Roberson Dorsey: Storytelling Through Motherhood

    Meet Crystle Roberson Dorsey, a director, writer, and producer who is rapidly becoming a prominent voice in TV and film. Hailing from Macon, Georgia, Dorsey has carved out a unique path in the industry, blending her passion for storytelling with the transformative experience of motherhood. She recently shared her inspiring journey on the Mompreneurs podcast, discussing how her perspective behind the camera has evolved.

    From Photography to Directing

    Dorsey’s path to filmmaking wasn’t immediate, but her love for visual storytelling began early. Her fascination with photography, sparked during her high school job at a camera shop, honed her director’s eye. It wasn’t until graduate school at the Savannah College of Art and Design, during a film class, that her talents truly came into focus. “It just came so naturally,” Dorsey recalled, “But I didn’t know immediately that I was a director. I just knew that I loved film and I loved filmmaking.”

    She learned to embrace her unique perspective, realizing its value in her work. “The way that you see the world is unlike anyone else,” she advises aspiring artists. “Once you realize the value in it, you can really embrace it and push it into your work.”

    Mastering the Craft Behind the Scenes

    Before stepping into the director’s chair, Dorsey spent nearly 15 years immersed in production. She assisted producers and directors, absorbing every aspect of filmmaking. Her breakthrough came on the TV series Greenleaf, where her persistence in pitching herself to executives eventually earned her the opportunity to direct. “It felt like I was coming off the home bench,” she said, recalling the immense support she received from the cast and crew.

    This pivotal moment opened doors, leading to back-to-back directing opportunities on different shows. She developed a strong creative partnership with Ryan Murphy Productions, directing episodes for acclaimed series like “American Horror Story,” “Glee,” and the upcoming “All’s Fair,” which premieres November 4th on Hulu.

    Storytelling with Heart: ‘Mr. Benjamin’s Birthday’

    One of Dorsey’s latest projects, the short film “Mr. Benjamin’s Birthday,” is set to premiere on the festival circuit. The film sheds light on the often-overlooked struggles of elders, particularly focusing on depression and mortality. Starring veteran actor Barry Shabaka Henley and featuring Dorsey’s husband, actor Omar Dorsey, the film aims to spark important conversations about the well-being of our seniors.

    “We tend to overshadow the way that our elders are feeling,” Dorsey explained. “That is the epitome of what I do filmmaking for. It’s to spark conversations that could be life-changing.” She specifically wanted to tell this story about the Black man, exploring themes of life, death, joy, and rebirth.

    Motherhood’s Influence on Creativity

    Becoming a mother to her son, JJ, has added a new dimension to Dorsey’s directing. She finds that the patience, compassion, and nurturing qualities of motherhood translate directly to her work on set. “I feel like I connect even better with people on set who I work with when they know that I’m a mom,” she shared. “It’s almost like they appreciate you more too, because they know you ain’t getting no sleep.”

    Looking Ahead: A Love for Sci-Fi

    Looking to the future, Dorsey is drawn to the expansive possibilities of the science fiction genre, inspired by authors like Octavia Butler. Whether bringing existing sci-fi narratives to life or crafting her own, she aims to explore bold ideas and human experiences within these futuristic worlds.

    What are your thoughts on Crystle Roberson Dorsey’s approach to storytelling? Share your insights in the comments below!

  • Filmmaker Crystle Roberson Dorsey: Storytelling & Motherhood

    In the latest episode of Mompreneurs, we sit down with the incredibly talented Crystle Roberson Dorsey, a director, writer, and producer who is making significant waves in the TV and film industry. From her roots in Macon, Georgia, to becoming a sought-after storyteller, Dorsey is carving out a unique path, blending her creative passion with the profound experiences of motherhood.

    From Photography to Directing: Finding Her Lens

    Dorsey’s journey into filmmaking wasn’t immediate but rather a natural evolution. Her love for visual storytelling began in high school with photography, honing a director’s eye even before she formally entered the film world. It was during graduate school at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) that a film class truly brought her talents into focus.

    “It just came so naturally,” Dorsey recalled. “But I didn’t know immediately that I was a director. I just knew that I loved film and I loved filmmaking.” She learned to embrace her unique perspective, realizing the value in how she sees the world. As she advises aspiring artists, “The way that you see the world is unlike anyone else. Once you realize the value in it, you can really embrace it and push it into your work.”

    Mastering the Craft and Landing the Big Break

    Before directing, Dorsey spent nearly 15 years immersed in production, working behind the scenes as an assistant to producers and directors. Her pivotal moment came with the acclaimed series *Greenleaf*, where her dedication and persistence in pitching herself to executives eventually led to her directing debut. The cast and crew offered immense support, recognizing her natural talent once she started calling the shots.

    This opportunity opened doors, leading to back-to-back directing episodes for various shows. She developed a strong creative partnership with Ryan Murphy Productions, directing episodes for series like *American Horror Story*, *Glee*, and *All’s Fair*, calling the experience ‘crazy’ in the best way possible.

    Powerful Storytelling: ‘Mr. Benjamin’s Birthday’

    One of Dorsey’s most recent and poignant projects is the short film *Mr. Benjamin’s Birthday*, slated for the festival circuit. The film shines a light on the often-overlooked struggles of elders, particularly focusing on themes of depression and mortality. Starring veteran actor Barry Shabaka Henley and featuring Dorsey’s husband, actor Omar Dorsey, the film marks their first collaboration.

    “Our elders are going through experiences with depression and different feelings as they get older, which is kind of downplayed in film and TV,” Dorsey explained. “So I thought about how great it would be to tell the story of an elder who’s facing mortality, and what that feels like.” She aims to spark conversations that can be ‘life-changing,’ emphasizing the importance of joy, life, death, and rebirth in her storytelling, with a specific focus on the Black male experience.

    Motherhood’s Influence on Her Art

    Becoming a mother to her one-and-a-half-year-old son, JJ, has added a new dimension to Dorsey’s directing. She finds that the patience, compassion, and nurturing qualities she employs as a mom translate directly to her work on set. “I feel like I connect even better with people on set who I work with when they know that I’m a mom,” she shared, noting that it fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation.

    Looking Ahead: A Love for Sci-Fi

    When looking towards the future, Dorsey’s passion for science fiction shines through. Inspired by authors like Octavia Butler, she’s drawn to the vast possibilities within the genre, particularly stories that ground sci-fi elements in real-life human experiences. Whether bringing existing stories to life or crafting her own, Dorsey continues to push creative boundaries as a fearless storyteller.

    What do you think about Crystle Roberson Dorsey’s approach to storytelling and her unique perspective as a filmmaker and mom? Share your thoughts in the comments below!