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 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 @kimburrelllove

Our 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 SOON

Director/Writer: Jay Pendarvis Jr.Starring: Asante Blackk, Isaiah John

HALFRICAN

Vic Mensa

BUKRA

Director/Writer: Alex Aljouni

MIRAGE

Director: Jhanvi Motla

BUBBLE POP

Director/Writer: Aeryn Michelle WilliamsStarring: Emmy Raver-Lampman

SINCERELY BRAD

Director/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