Listen along as Jamir Smith explores fashion, art, relationships, pop culture, and love. Remember to stay CREATIVE & send all inquiries and questions to Thejamirsmithshow@gmail.com #create #vibes #jamirsmith

I had the chance to chat with musician, and actor Elijah Boothe how drops his new single on July 17 followed by an EP in August 2026. Fron acting to music, every chapter continues to be intentional. Working with artists like Durand Bernarr and Knwledge Elijah continues to trust his own artistry and create the his own journey. Download the new single on July 17 and stay turned for his amazing EP in August.Instagram @elijahboothe

2026 NBA HBCU Classic presented by AT&T will take center stage during NBA All-Star 2026 in Los Angeles, California. This highly anticipated matchup will feature two powerhouse programs— the Hampton University Pirates and the North Carolina A&T Aggies

One of the most meaningful conversations I had during this year's Essence Festival was with DeVon Franklin and his wife, Maria Castillo.Our discussion wasn't just about careers or accomplishments, it was about healing, transformation, love, and the legacy we leave behind. We talked about the importance of doing the inner work, living with intention, and understanding that our character is just as important as our success.One reminder that stayed with me: the greatest work we will ever do is becoming the best version of ourselves. Titles may open doors, but integrity, purpose, and how we treat people are what truly leave a lasting impact.

During this year's @essencefest & @blackexcellencebrunch hosted by @trellworld , I chatted with with Victoria Thomas @iam_queenvee tech founder, sports agent, and attorney, for a conversation that stayed with me long after the cameras stopped rolling.She reminded me that when we're invited into these rooms, it's something special and there's magic in the room! It's about building genuine relationships, showing up for one another, and creating communities that lasts...Thank you for your heart ❤️ ..Full conversation @spotify @spotifypodcasts ..@essencefest @blackexcellencebrunch @trellworld ...

Jamaal: Loved Coded is an anthology sci-fi show about the intersection of humanoid robots and dating. Gay men navigate the complexities of dating with engineered, lifelike lovers.Stream all episodes on HERE TV

Elijah, welcome to The Jamir Smith Show. I've been excited about this conversation because you've built a career that refuses to stay in one lane. From acting to music, every chapter seems intentional. How are you feeling in this season of your life?”Before we get into the work… how's your heart today?Act One: Becoming Elijah Many people know the credits, but they don't know the journey.When you think back to the young Elijah, what dream did he have that you're finally living today?Was there a moment when you realized storytelling—not just acting—was your purpose?Hollywood can celebrate success while quietly testing your confidence. What has kept you grounded?What's something about your journey people often misunderstand?Act Two: The MusicYour new single arrives July 17, followed by an EP in August.Why is this the right moment for people to hear your voice as a musician?What story are you finally ready to tell through music that acting couldn't fully express?

Elijah, welcome to The Jamir Smith Show. I've been excited about this conversation because you've built a career that refuses to stay in one lane. From acting to music, every chapter seems intentional. How are you feeling in this season of your life?”Before we get into the work… how's your heart today?Act One: Becoming Elijah Many people know the credits, but they don't know the journey.When you think back to the young Elijah, what dream did he have that you're finally living today?Was there a moment when you realized storytelling—not just acting—was your purpose?Hollywood can celebrate success while quietly testing your confidence. What has kept you grounded?What's something about your journey people often misunderstand?Act Two: The Music (8-10 minutes)Your new single arrives July 17, followed by an EP in August.Why is this the right moment for people to hear your voice as a musician?What story are you finally ready to tell through music that acting couldn't fully express?Instagram:@elijahboothe@jamir_smithJamirSmith.com

Essencefest 2026 with DeVon Franklin and wife Maria Castillo Franklin sit down with me to talk about love, legacy and black representation.

I had the opportunity to catch up with Raheem DeVaughn @raheem_devaughn during ESSENCE Festival as he prepares for another incredible performance. We talked about the importance of ownership, building a lasting legacy, and how staying true to your purpose continues to open new doors.And of course, we had to talk about “You”, a timeless #1 record that still connects with people years later because real music never goes out of style.Full interview @spotify @spotifypodcasts https://open.spotify.com/episode/5PO0NXWy6PKAyWjOEG9cj4?si=mazrIpwJR-ufbpn390fyWA&utm_source=copy-link..@essencefest .@spotify @spotifypodcasts @power97.5laradio ..#explore #fyp #reels ..

Today's guest is one of the most influential voices in modern American fashion. From Ridgeway, South Carolina to dressing some of the most powerful women in the world, his designs have become synonymous with confidence, elegance, and power dressing.He's dressed icons including VP Kamala Harris, Michelle Obama, Beyoncé, Rihanna, Ke Ke Palmer, Issa Rae, and so many more.His work represents more than fashion - it represents identity, empowerment, and cultural legacy. Please welcome Sergio Hudson."I had the opportunity to sit with an amazing fashion designer and friend, Sergio Hudson and talk about:ROOTS, CHILDHOOD & PURPOSEBREAKTHROUGH & BUILDING THE BRANDCULTURE, POLITICS & ICONIC MOMENTSMET GALA, LEGACY & CREATIVE EVOLUTION

The highly anticipated second season of Diarra From Detroit is finally here and I had the opportunity to sit down with the brilliant Diarra Kilpatrick during ESSENCE FEST 2026 & The Black Excellence Brunch hosted by Trell Thomas.Season 2 raises the stakes with a triple homicide, a citywide treasure hunt, undercover missions, and plenty of unexpected twists. I can't wait for everyone to experience what's next.Catch the Season 2 premiere on July 29 exclusively on Paramount+.

Today I'm on the red carpet at the All American Final Season Premiere from the Warner Bros.Lot, bringing exclusive conversations with the cast and creative team behind one of television's most impactful dramas.T'll be speaking with Michael Evans Behling, Greta Onieogou, Bre-Z, Nathaniel Logan Melntyre, Osy Ikhile, Antonio J. Bell, Alexis Chikaeze, Kareem Grimes, Lauryn Hardy, along with executive producers and showrunners Nkechi Okoro Carroll and Jameal Turner, as we celebrate the final chapter of All American.We'll be reflecting on legacy, growth, unforgettable moments, and what they hope fans take away from the series as it comes to an emotional close.

Before she closed out an unforgettable night at ESSENCE Festival of Culture, I had the honor of sitting down with the incomparable Kim Burrell @kimburrellloveOur conversation wasn't just about music, it was about faith, purpose, and living in the space between what feels believable and what only God can make possible. She spoke about embracing both the believable and the unbelievable seasons of life, reminding us that our greatest breakthroughs often begin where our understanding ends.@kimburrelllove@essencefest@spotify @spotifypodcasts

It was an honor to sit down with André Holland @andreholland, Wendell Pierce, and director Sheldon Candis @sheldoncandis to discuss a story rooted in redemption, mentorship, resilience, and the transformative power of community."They Fight", reminds us that sometimes the greatest victories happen outside the ring. Through powerful performances and authentic storytelling, the film shines a light on young people fighting for a future and the mentors willing to stand in their corner.Don't miss They Fight when it premieres globally on July 17 on Hulu.• @theyfightfilm @hulu• @power97.5laradio

Thank you to all the amazing talent that came through the press rooms. The ESSENCE Festival of Culture Presented by Coca Cola, is the nation's largest celebration of Black culture, bringing together music, entertainment, wellness, business, fashion, beauty, and community in the heart of New Orleans. More than a festival, it's a cultural homecoming where artists, entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and changemakers come together to celebrate Black excellence through powerful conversations, unforgettable performances, and meaningful connections. (essence.com

From Married to Medicine to the ESSENCE Festival stage, Dr. Mimi Sanders continues to use her voice to advocate for mental health-especially within the Black community.It was a pleasure connecting with Dr. Mimi and her husband Steve Sanders, at #ESSENCEFest and hearing her lead such an impactful conversation on Black women's mental health, healing, and advocacy. She reminded us that wellness isn't just about getting through the day-it's about intentionally caring for ourselves.Instagram @drmimi.care

FIVE FILM FRIDAYS, powered by Create The Writers Room, is more than a program-it's a launchpad for the next generation of filmmakers. Biannually, FIVE standout short films are handpicked by industry insiders and screened directly for our network of studio and production partners, creating real momentum beyond the screen.Founded by actor, director, writer, producer, and author R.D. Castleberry.SEE YOU SOONDirector/Writer: Jay Pendarvis Jr.Starring: Asante Blackk, Isaiah JohnHALFRICANVic MensaBUKRADirector/Writer: Alex AljouniMIRAGEDirector: Jhanvi MotlaBUBBLE POPDirector/Writer: Aeryn Michelle WilliamsStarring: Emmy Raver-LampmanSINCERELY BRADDirector/Writer: Isaac YowmanStarring: Patrick Walker, Cynthia Carmona, Carl Anthony Payne II

The Black Excellence Brunch curated Trell Thomas honored the legendary Ms. Patti LaBelle during this year's 2026 Essencefest in New Orleans. The event continues to highlight and honor those creatives that have made footprints in our lives.Instagram @blackexcellencebrunch @trellworld @kendragmedia

The Black Excellence Brunch curated Trell Thomas honored the legendary Ms. Patti LaBelle during this year's 2026 Essencefest in New Orleans. The event continues to highlight and honor those creatives that have made footprints in our lives. Instagram @blackexcellencebrunch @trellworld@Beyondthegatescbs

An honor to interview the legendaryMC Lyte @mclyte at the Black Excellence Brunch hosted by Trell Thomas during ESSENCE Festival of Culture presented by Coca-Cola.Our conversation went beyond music as we discussed the mission behind Hip Hop Sisters Network, the nonprofit she founded to uplift communities through social justice, financial empowerment, educational advancement, and positive representation. For decades, MC Lyte has shown that true legacy isn't just built through what you create, it's built through what you pour back into others.Thank you, MC Lyte, for continuing to lead with purpose, amplify voices, and inspire the next generation to dream bigger.

Some conversations just feel like home.Thank you, my friend and love, Dawn Richard @dawnrichard, for chatting with me during the Black Excellence Brunch @blackexcellencebrunch hosted by Trell Thomas @trellworld during ESSENCE Festival presented by Coca-Cola.You're more than an incredible artist, you're my friend and someone who leads with heart. Every time we connect, it's a reminder that beyond the spotlight, it's always been about the music, family, and the love you continue to pour into everyone.Thank you @trellworld for honoring an amazing woman! I'm grateful for your honesty, your artistry, and your unwavering spirit.

12th Annual Truth Awards held in Beverly Hills, CA. Thank you to The Better Brothers of LA for another amazing year.

“From the Field to the Frontlines: Darren M. Haynes on Reinvention, Resilience & Real Legacy”

FIVE FILM FRIDAYS ShortsFIVE FILM FRIDAYS, powered by Create The Writers Room, is more than a program-it's a launchpad for the next generation of filmmakers. Biannually, FIVE standout short films are handpicked by industry insiders and screened directly for our network of studio and production partners, creating real momentum beyond the screen. Through mentorship, insider access, and our partnership with Roku, select films premiere on The Roku Channel, reaching over 90 million viewers worldwide. This is where bold voices break through, where underrepresented creators rise, and where cinematic visions turn into real opportunity-this isn't just a moment, it's a movement, and your story could be next.Instagram @createthewritersroom@jamir_smithFull interviews on YouTube:Jamir_smith

We caught up with Rapper, Griot B before his Juneteenth performance:The inspiration behind his new viral single “Fresh Out” and its messages of freedom, family and Black joy. Just released this week, the single has already generated 375K+ views on YouTube.His 6-track EP, Good Trouble is out today on all streaming platformsUsing music as a tool to build confidence and empower youth.The growing demand for positive, educational content for children and families.How Griot B balances his roles as an artist, educator, entrepreneur, and founder of School Yard Rap.Headlining & hosting a major Juneteenth Celebration & Community Care Activation on June 19 in Culver City, CaliforniaInstagram: @thegriotbJamirSmith.com Instagram @jamir_smith

“Today's guest is part of television history. From modeling and commercials to starring in one of the most groundbreaking soap operas in modern television, he's helping reshape representation on daytime TV. You know him as Martin Richardson on CBS' hit series Beyond the Gates — please welcome Brandon Claybon.”SEGMENT 1 — THE BEGINNING OF THE DREAMWhat was it about storytelling that spoke to you that early?SEGMENT 2 — THE ACTOR'S JOURNEY & HOLLYWOOD REALITYYou appeared on shows like Grey's Anatomy, S.W.A.T., Shameless, and The Neighborhood. How did those early opportunities shape you as an actor?SEGMENT 3 — BEYOND THE GATES & MAKING HISTORYBeyond the Gates is already historic — the first new daytime soap in 25 years and the first hour-long soap centered around a predominantly Black cast. When did the weight of that truly hit you?Support this amazing creative and check out the latest episodes of Beyond The Gates on CBS and Instagram:@Brandonclaybon

Today's guest is one of the most influential voices in modern American fashion. From Ridgeway, South Carolina to dressing some of the most powerful women in the world, his designs have become synonymous with confidence, elegance, and power dressing. He's dressed icons including VP Kamala Harris, Michelle Obama, Beyoncé, Rihanna, Ke Ke Palmer, Issa Rae, and so many more.His work represents more than fashion — it represents identity, empowerment, and cultural legacy. Please welcome Sergio Hudson.”I had the opportunity to sit with an amazing fashion designer and friend, Sergio Hudson and talk about:-ROOTS, CHILDHOOD & PURPOSE -BREAKTHROUGH & BUILDING THE BRAND-CULTURE, POLITICS & ICONIC MOMENTS -MET GALA, LEGACY & CREATIVE EVOLUTIONOur final question of.. When people talk about Sergio Hudson 50 years from now, what do you hope they say beyond the clothes?“This conversation was powerful. From fashion and identity to culture, legacy, and purpose — Sergio Hudson continues to redefine what modern American luxury looks like. Thank you for joining us.”

I had the opportunity to interview Marcus L.A. Garrett at The Walt Disney Concert Hall to discuss is amazing performance “On The Seashore “.Escape from the craziness of life and immerse yourself in Sound Waves, a program that ebbs and flows with brilliant meditations on water, the source of all life.As the finale to the Master Chorale's 2025/26 season, Sound Waves presents you with a rare moment of peace to escape from the noise of the world, complete with five breathtaking works that will immerse you in the beauty of music and natureWhether it's Reena Esmail's Malhaar : A Requiem for Water – featuring an immersive video installation that transforms the Walt Disney Concert Hall into a cocoon of light and motion, Eric Whitacre's lush Water Night, or Shenandoah – an American folksong, arranged by James Erb – a flowing river of deeply beautiful sound tapestries –this night has been created just for you.Also featured are two World Premieres that were written specifically for the Master Chorale. The first is Hyowon Woo's powerful SUM (숨), which will bathe you in a transcendent 'sound bath for the soul,' complete with 62 singers spread throughout the Hall, interweaving human voices with Korean percussion and resonant singing bowls.The evening also includes the world premiere of On the Seashore by American composer Marques L. A. Garrett. Unfolding as voices rise and recede like waves, this piece set to a beautiful Indian poem, cascades in a surge that crests in a breathtaking sonic climax.Leave the chaos behind and enter the world of Sound Waves – a sanctuary where serenity takes hold, blood pressure slows, noise dissolves and the senses are fully indulged in a deeply rich experience that only an ensemble of the Los Angeles Master Chorale's caliber can deliver.Breathe.Relax.Let Sound Waves Wash Over You.

Today we're sitting down with Brandon Black, known for his breakout role in A Madea Homecoming under the direction of Tyler Perry.But this conversation goes deeper than film, it's about identity, industry, and what it really means to be seen.Host:Let's talk about the acting world right now. Streaming has changed everything—access, visibility, even what success looks like.How do you see the industry today compared to when you first started pursuing acting?I sat down with Brandon Black and talked about:Do you feel like actors today have more opportunity, or just more competition and noise?There's also this pressure now to be more than an actor you have to be a brand, a personality, a presence online.How do you balance being an artist versus being visible?Have you ever felt like the industry tried to put you in a box creatively? And if so, how did you push back?..Brandon Black is not just an artist just stepping into roles, but stepping into purpose.From A Madea Homecoming to what's next, this is only the beginning of a much larger story.Instagram @bblackJamirSmith.com

“From Baltimore to the Spotlight: George Lovett on Voice, Growth & Staying the Artist You Deserve to Be”“Today on The Jamir Smith Show, I'm sitting down with a voice that carries soul, discipline, and intention, Baltimore-born singer, performer, and storyteller, George Lovett. From American Idol to Showtime at the Apollo, to building his artistry through Savannah College of Art and Design this is a conversation about evolution, purpose, and what it really takes to sustain a creative life.”We had an amazing conversation about:American Idol + Industry Reality-Making the Top 20 on American Idol is huge, but also intense. What did that experience teach you about the business of music?-After the show ended for you, what was the emotional transition like, from national stage to rebuilding your path?Social Media + Modern Artist Reality-You've embraced social media as a tool—how did that shift your mindset from traditional performance to digital presence?-Do you ever feel tension between creating for art versus creating for algorithm?“This conversation right here… it's a reminder that artistry isn't just about the spotlight, it's about growth, discipline, and believing in your voice even when the world gets quiet. George Lovett, thank you for sharing your journey with us.”..#fyp #viral .Instagram:@georgelovett@jamir_smith

Gail Bean: Actress | Storyteller | Snowfall | P-Valley | Sundance BreakoutToday's guest is someone whose work lives in the body long after the credits roll. From Snowfall to P-Valley, she has portrayed women in survival, transformation, and truth, please welcome Gail Bean.”We asked some amazing questions:I had the opportunity to meet this absolutely beautiful woman while she was getting honored at the Micheaux Film Festival here in LA:When people meet you outside of your work, before the credits, before the characters, how do you hope they feel your presence?Right now, in this season of your life and career, what word best describes where you are internally?You've played characters who carry a lot of weight. How do you personally decompress before stepping into conversations like this one?Support this amazing artist on Instagram:@gail_beanJamirSmith.com

Today we're stepping into a world where vulnerability meets cinematic sound. She's an artist whose voice feels like midnight in the city, haunting, intimate, and unforgettable. From her breakout cover of Personal Jesus to her latest release Gravity, she's carving out a distinct lane in dark pop. Today, we welcome Michelle Kash.”We were able to ask questions with Michelle Kash:-You've described growing up surrounded by art and creativity, can you take us back to a specific moment in your childhood where you first felt the power of music, not just heard it?-Before stepping fully into music, you explored acting, poetry, piano, guitar, how did those disciplines shape the emotional language you use in your songs today?-Hurt Me sits in that space of admitting something is ending. Was writing that song more about closure, confrontation, or confession?-You're also deeply committed to animal welfare and empowering women and girls, how do those causes shape your identity as an artist?-You once said, “When I listen to music, I don't feel alone anymore.” Was there a time in your life when music was the only thing that made you feel seen?Support this amazing artist on Instagram:@michellekashmusic

I'm super excited about this next interview. I had a chance to sit with Black Writers Weekend, CEO, Tamika Jamison, and chat about how she built this community of writers and became the blueprint of the unseen.We dug deep and talk about:Tamika, when people hear your name today, they hear author, entrepreneur, visionary, founder, but who is Tamika Newhouse at the core when the titles are stripped away?You've built spaces for so many others to shine. What life experiences first taught you that creating platforms can be just as powerful as standing on them?BEGINNINGS & PURPOSE Do you remember the exact moment you realized storytelling would become your life's work? What happened in that moment?Before the awards and recognition, what were the private battles you had to overcome to believe your voice mattered?BUILDING BLACK WRITERS WEEKEND Black Writers Weekend has become movement energy. What void did you see in the culture that made you say, “This has to exist”?When you first launched it, did you know it would become nationally respected, or were you simply answering a calling?Black Writers Weekend Los Angeles (5/8 &5/9)Instagram:@blackwritersweekend@jamir_smith

I've Cried the BluesCast & Creative TeamGuests: Dennis Williams, Candiace Dillard Bassett, Darrel Walls, Karen LinetteWelcome to the show. This production carries history, music, pain, and triumph. For each of you—what was the first feeling you had when you became part of I've Cried the Blues?This story is set in 1945 Little Rock, but the themes still feel current. Why does this story matter in 2026?The cast talked about some aspects of the play that audiences would love to hear more about!:Dennis Williams:Dennis, what truth were you trying to tell when you first created this story?Mattie is fighting for freedom in every sense. Was she inspired by women you've known or women history often overlooks?Darrel Walls:Darrel, you've moved audiences through music for years. How different is it when music must now advance a character's pain, love, and survival on stage?Candiace Dillard Bassett:Candiace, people know you from television and music, but theater asks for a different kind of vulnerability. What has this experience unlocked in you?Karen Linette:Karen, with your incredible range and experience, how do you use your voice not just to sing—but to tell truth?This phenomenal play leaves us with questions to take back with us:One word that describes this production?One lesson this story teaches?One reason everyone needs to experience this live?What are you most proud of in this moment?Instagram:@denniscre8ts@musiqcity@therealcandiace@reanlinetteofficial@jamir_smithJamirSmith.comYouTube:Jamir_smith

Today, we're diving into passion, power, and a little bit of chaos—in the best way possible.Joining us is actress Gabrielle Faith Brown, starring in My Dark Romeo, premiering April 30 on ReelShort.This isn't your typical love story—it's enemies-to-lovers, arranged marriage, tension-filled drama… the kind of story where love feels like a battleWhen you first read My Dark Romeo, what was your immediate reaction—were you like, “Oh, this is messy… I'm in”?Question:What's one scene you filmed where you had to pause and go, “Wait… did my character really just do that?”STEPPING INTO DALLAS:Dallas Townsend is thrown into a situation she didn't choose—her reputation is shaken, and suddenly her life is no longer hers.What drew you to her emotionally?There's something powerful about a woman trying to reclaim control in a world that's trying to define her.Did you see parts of yourself in Dallas?Dallas isn't just reacting—she's strategizing. She's playing the game.What was the most challenging part of portraying someone who's constantly calculating her next move?Check out Dark Romance on The ReelShort App 4/30Instagram @reelshortapp@jamir_smithJamirSmith.com

Vice President Kamala D. Harris to Receive William O. Douglas Award;Legendary Actress Rita Moreno to Receive Trailblazer in the Arts Award atPublic Counsel's Annual EventDavis Wright Tremaine LLP to Receive Law Firm Pro Bono AwardPoet Amanda Gorman to Perform; Uzo Aduba to PresentHonorees: 49th Vice President Kamala D. Harris (William O. Douglas Award), Rita Moreno (Trailblazer in the Arts Award), Davis Wright Tremaine LLP (Law Firm Pro Bono Award).Presenters: Uzo AdubaPerformers: Poet Amanda GormanEmcee: Jason George & Tanya AckerAdditional Guests: Alyssa Milano, Esai Morales, Dulé Hill, Bruce Vilanch, Katie Lowes & Adam Shapiro, Betsy Beers & Dinner Chair Bruce Cormicle, Josh Meyers & McKenzie RollinsPublic Counsel's Annual William O. Douglas Award DinnerThe annual event is attended by over 1,000 leaders from the business, legal, political, entertainment, and philanthropic communities who gather together to support Public Counsel's work and to recognize those whose accomplishments have forever changed our nation and our world for the better.

Founded by Bobby Brown and Alicia Etheridge Brown, this annual gala honors individuals and organizations making a meaningful impact in their communities. The evening features a purple carpet, “Serenity Casino” experience, awards ceremony, dinner, and live performances.The organization, created in memory of Bobbi Kristina Brown, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to eliminating domestic violence and supporting survivors through advocacy, education, crisis intervention, housing, and counseling services.Hosted by Anthony Anderson, this year's honorees include Tina Knowles (Legacy Impact Award), Tisha Campbell (Thriver Award), and Deputy Chief Ruby Flores (Changemaker Award).YouTube: Jamir_smithInstagram:@jamir_smith

Today's conversation is about power, who has it, who doesn't, and what happens when that balance begins to shift with Becca Öystilä founder and CEO of Booka.Because the beauty and wellness industry… from hair to skin, nails to lashes, fitness to bodywork… runs on the talent of independent professionals.But the system? It hasn't always worked in their favor.And that's exactly what today's guest is here to change.Becca Öystilä founder and CEO of Booka, a platform designed to give beauty and wellness professionals more freedom, more ownership, and more control over their careers.We discussed topics like:-Personal Journey + Industry Insight -The Broken System-Enter Booka | A New Model -Tools, Freedom & Flexibility -Traction, Growth & Market Shift What I love about this conversation is that it's not just about beauty, it's about ownership, independence, and finally valuing the people behind the work.Because when you change the system… you change lives.Becca, thank you for building something that puts the power back where it belongs.Instagram:@beccaoystila@jamir_smithJamirSmith.com

It's awards season and the highly rated “Beyond The Gates” has been nominated for multiple NAACP Awards. The Hair Department was one of those nominations, lead by Department Head, Wankaya L. Hinkson, assisted by her talented team, Wayne Jolla Jr., Christy Caudle and Jeremy Johnson.Taking us back to the beginning of their career journeys, and how black hair holds deep cultural meanings.Our conversation focused on:-The distinction of aesthetics with Beyond the Gates (luxury, sophistication and glamour)-representation with audiences with the range of textures -how the team had to pull off major hair transformations under pressure!Support this amazing team and Beyond the Gates on Instagram:@hairbywankaya@iamjeremey@christylee_1@professionalcutz@beyondthegatescbs@jamir_smithJamirSmith.com

What an amazing conversation with Dr. Karen Fields-Lever, (Business Owner, Mobile Healthcare Innovator, Mother & Wife).From Detroit to Spelman and understanding how to resilient, Howard, Yale and the Representation in the Medical Field. Dr. Fields-Lever answered questions:-HBCU excellence and Ivy League rigor-What does representation in the healthcare industry mean as a black woman dentist?-What do you hope your black girls see in you as they sit in your chair?-Finding structure in growth without losing the heart of her mission.Instagram:@drkarendds@jamir_smithJamirSmith.com

I had a chance to chat with Jason George (Grey's Anatomy s22, & Station 19), as we discussed his legacy, leadership and life behind the lens.Jason George has spent decades bringing layered characters to life, from daytime dramas to televisions most beloved medical universes.Coming Full Circle: Dr. Ben Warren's Journey on Grey's Anatomy being portrayed since 2010Jason talked about:-speaking to students who see themselves in his work?-serving on national boards and stepping into leadership?-gun violence/ and his civic responsibility -being excited about the next chapter in his life and the legacy he leaves with his children.Check out the new season of Grey's Anatomy S22Instagram:@jasonwinstongeorge@jamir_smithJamirSmith.com

I had a chance to chat with Aziza Scott, actress ( You, Me, & Tuscany, One of Them Days, Twenties) about her amazing g film/ tv projects and reflections from New Orleans to Hollywood.From how she builds character to her artitsty with the craft and balancing vulnerability on set.We talk about:-Do you ever find pieces of yourself in the characters?-Facing moments to be seen and understood?-The pressure of expectations.-Staying grounded in a somewhat fleeting industry Check out her latest film You, Me & Tuscany in theaters April 9.Instagram:@azizascott@youmetuscany Instagram:@jamir_smithJamirSmith.comIHeart Radio, Power 97.5 LA, YouTube:The JamirSmith Show | jamir_smith

Lazarus The Awakening LA Screening & Red Carpet Premiere.Speaking with the stars of the hit film Lazarus The Awakening, (Sean Riggs, Courtney Grace, R. Marcus Taylor,), this experience felt bigger than just another premiere, it felt like stepping into a movement.Chatting with Sean Riggs (creator, producer, actor), we discussed how this film isn't just action, it's resurrection, ownership, and power. A story rooted in a man who's been given a second chance, not just to live, but to fight for something greater than himself.The film blends raw street justice with superhero mythology and martial arts, but what really stood out to me was the heart. It's about redemption, accountability, and what it means to rise again when the world counts you out.These are the moments that matter where film, culture, and real conversations discuss IP ownership, character depth and industry disruption.@iamseanriggshttps://youtu.be/3Dyd0KrFcaw?si=Hx57Ng|1FH1W09vSIt is available on streaming and VOD platforms like Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango@iheartpodcast @power97.5laradio

Amy DuBois Barnett Interview as she celebrates her debut novel, If I Ruled The World, and her legendary editorial career, and this new creative chapter.We had an amazing conversation about:Power, Purpose, Creativity, and Becoming your Full Self Amy discussed how:-Becoming Amy, her Identity, family and early purpose-The power of representation & her editorial legacy -“If I Ruled The World”, her debut novel -fiction roots in truth -What comes next and Amy's reinvention / joyWhen her story is told what will people say Amy DuBois Barnett stood for?Instagram:@amyduboisbarnettPurchase her new novel: If I Ruled The World @jamir_smithJamirSmith.com

Red Lotus is a lover boy at heart and a fighter by nature, but he is deeply connected to his identity symbolizing his journey from darkness to greatness.Red Lotus is one of the most versatile artists out:Rap, rock, soul, acting, dancing… he does it all!I sat down with Red Lotus to talk beyond the music.He discussed questions like:-What were some of the murky water he had to survive to become who is today?-How he writes being in “motion” and why movement is essential to creating ideas.-How his song “Built Different” became a movement Red Lotus showed up fully, honestly and unapologetically which also aligns with his music which is a movement!Instagram:@red.lotus.music@jamir_smithJamirSmith.com

Baller Bossez, A.T. and Ace sit down with me to talk about their intersection of culture, luxury and hustle as entrepreneurs. They talk about the gap they saw in media and lifestyle culture and what made them build the brand “Baller Bossez”.A.T. and Ace discussed topics like:-What was that light bulb moment that inspired you to create this platform?-How do you balance authenticity with aspiration?-What does it mean to “own your own space”?-What is the true hustle behind the luxury?I'm excited to see what the next phase of where Baller Bossez will go and how they will inspire the next generation.Instagram:@ballerbossez@jamir_smithJamirSmith.com

I had a chance to chat with Craig Stewart who has always chosen truth over comfort, and storytelling over silence. He is an author, playwright, producer and founder who has spent many years giving language to many of the things we feel but don't always know how to say.Craig discussed questions like:-Forming his identity at Hampton University -Writing a sold out play “A Day in the Life”.-His first book “Words Never Spoken”-To his centering Black Gay voices of “Telling Our Stories” to c-creator of “Phagtawlk”.Craig Stewart reminds us that words are not just communication, they are liberation.Instagram:@craigthewriterstewart@jamir_smithJamirSmith.com

I had a chance to sit down with actor/director/producer, Chris Greene, from guest starring and voice over for the new Hulu series Murdah, and previously working on Queen of the South, and ATLANTA. Chris opened up and discussed:-What was that exact moment acting “clicked”?-What were moments when you almost walked away?-What was it like being apart of a storytelling ecosystem like ATLANTA?I enjoyed what advice he tells actors who feel discouraged or lost, and what he teaches them about staying focused on the craft.Support Chris Greene on Instagram:@REALCHRISGREENE@jamir_smithJamirSmith.comIHeart Radio:TheJamirSmithShow

Today we're diving into one of the most talked-about vertical drama series right now. If you've been serolling through ReelShort, you've probably seen the explosive chemistry between two rising stars bringing action, romance, and emotional complexity to the screen.Their latest project, The Hitwoman, released February 12th, is already pulling audiences into a story about love, loyalty, and impossible choices.Joining me today are the stars themselves, Nicole Mattox, who plays Maddie, a conflicted assassin on one final mission... and Seth Edeen, who plays Hayden, the district attorney who just happens to be her former love.https://www.reelshort.com/full-episodes/the-hitwoman-6972c116134e8c31690e1c3dInstagram:@jamir_smithJamirSmith.comIHeart Radio:@TheJamirSmithShow

LIVE from SXSW in conversation Justin Thomas-Copeland CEO, 4As. We had an amazing discussion on how he is Reimagining the Agency Model.Justin answered questions like:-When you speak about "business value," are we talking revenue, relevance, cultural impact or all three?-What's the biggest barrier to true collaboration?-If we fast-forward five years - what does a thriving agency ecosystem look like under your leadership?Instagram:@4as_presents @theswayeffect @jamir_smithJamirSmith.com

I had a chance to chat with Jermaine Harris, from Tyler Perry's Joe's College Road Trip, which premiered this month Netflix. A Full Circle Moment from receiving the call from Mr. Perry, his comedic timing to honoring his mentor Ms. Cyrus. -What does this chapter in your life feel like?-Where were you when you got the “call”?-What would you tell young Black Men who feel “not Black enough “ or “too different?”Check out Joe's College Road Trip on Netflix and support Jermaine Harris on Instagram @JERXINEInstagram @jamir_smithJamirSmith.com for the latest episodes