In this episode, Deborah Lee Smith engages in a deep conversation with Brianna Brown Keen about the complexities of mental health, particularly in the entertainment industry. They explore the importance of faith (whatever that means to you), the need for emotional validation, and the impact of trauma on personal growth. Brianna shares her experiences working with single mothers through her nonprofit, The New Hollywood, emphasizing the importance of community support and breaking generational patterns.
The discussion also touches on self-care, the challenges of navigating life changes, and the significance of surrounding oneself with positive influences. The episode concludes with rapid-fire questions that reveal personal insights and reflections.
Interested in donating to The New Hollywood to help single mothers? Click here!
Check out the book she mentioned: You Can Heal Your Life.
More about Brianna Brown Keen:
With over 350 screen credits, she’s known for standout roles on Homeland, General Hospital, Devious Maids, Dynasty, and Netflix’s Outer Banks. Beyond acting, Brianna produces socially conscious projects that spotlight stories meant to inspire, uplift, and ignite change. She is currently producing the feature film Crutches alongside her husband, Richie Keen.As founder and CEO of The New Hollywood (est. 2006), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Brianna empowers storytellers and change makers through goals, grants, and mentorship. Her TNH Accountability Program Supports formerly homeless single moms by providing the tools and resources they need to rebuild their lives. Guided by the motto “Rise Higher, Shine Brighter & Give Back,” the nonprofit has made a lasting impact on individuals and communities for nineteen years. In 2025, she directed, produced, and performed in the TNH Renaissance Benefit, furthering the organization’s mission through singing, dancing and community. Brianna is also the creator of Manifesting Your Mission—a transformational platform that includes guidebooks, courses, workshops, retreats, coaching, and a podcast. Her signature keynote, Manifesting Your Mission: How to Marry Creativity with Productivity to Create a Life You Love, has inspired audiences nationwide. She helps artists, entrepreneurs, and mission-driven leaders take aligned action toward their dreams, speaking passionately at the intersection of purpose, productivity, and personal power. Her talks are known for their warmth, humor, and real-world resonance.A certified Reiki 2 practitioner, Brianna incorporates energy work into her holistic approach to creativity, leadership, and personal growth. Also a proud Minnesota native, Brianna serves as a Chair Ambassador for the National Women’s History Museum, continuing her commitment to amplify women’s voices, leadership, and legacies.
www.manifestingyourmission.org
www.briannabrownkeen.com
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New here? More Than You See strips away the highlight reels to reveal the real mental health journeys of actors, artists, and creatives. Hosts Deborah Lee Smith and Shelley Regner ask the questions others avoid — exploring what was happening off stage when life looked perfect, and how depression, anxiety, and resilience shaped the people we admire.
Each episode also brings a dose of “good news” in mental health: uplifting stories, new research, and cultural shifts that remind us progress is happening. Come for the unfiltered confessions, stay for the hope, and leave knowing you’re not alone.
