Danessa Myricks is a self-made beauty visionary whose impact runs deep across artistry, inclusivity, and innovation. Originally a nursing assistant turned single mom, Danessa’s pivot into makeup artistry began when she was laid off from a job that published hair and beauty magazines. Driven by passion, she self-educated in makeup techniques, photography, and product science — ultimately turning her creativity into a career.

Danessa Myricks is a self-made beauty visionary whose impact runs deep across artistry, inclusivity, and innovation. Originally a nursing assistant turned single mom, Danessa’s pivot into makeup artistry began when she was laid off from a job that published hair and beauty magazines. Driven by passion, she self-educated in makeup techniques, photography, and product science — ultimately turning her creativity into a career.

Katherine Melchior Ray is a global marketing leader, consultant, keynote speaker, author, and educator.

Mary Fisher has spent a lifetime giving voice to the voiceless. From the hush of hospices to the halls of power, she’s proven that one woman’s courage can yield change.

Phylicia Rashad will speak more with us about her career and all the things that led her to where she is now, with accomplishments in TV, film, theater, education, and more. She’ll share the keys to her success and remind us of the importance of being of service, honoring heritage, and prioritizing well-being.

After surviving a deadly hemorrhagic stroke, Sekou Writes made the conscious decision to put himself first—his health, his emotions, his joy. In the darkest hours, he chose to smile. He found a way to encourage himself because he knew how far he’d come already and that better was ahead.

Tara Roberts is a storyteller, adventurer, and traveler.

Tara spent the last six years following, diving with, and telling stories about Black scuba divers as they searched for and helped document slave shipwrecks around the world.

Tune in to hear the inspiring story of how World Record Certified Dive Master Hooda Brown made history—and how she continues to break barriers both in and out of the water.

This week on DREAMLEAPERS® with Harriette Cole, we’re joined by journalist, producer, and author Steve Jones—creator of Hollywood Confidential: 12 Secrets to Reclaim the Star of Your Own Life. Tune in for a powerful conversation about purpose, legacy, and how to rise with intention through storytelling and vision.

Debra Martin Chase, trailblazing producer and sixteen-time 2025 Tony Award nominee. From The Princess Diaries to Broadway, she’s shaping culture through purpose-driven storytelling.

Kiana Webb is a transformational guide, spiritual teacher, and visionary business leader devoted to awakening the light within others.

Charles M. Blow, a nationally respected cultural commentator and political thought leader, for an insightful conversation that promises to inform, challenge, and inspire.

Lester F. Strong is a distinguished professional whose career spans broadcast journalism, educational entrepreneurship, and mindfulness advocacy.

Actor/director/producer Eriq La Salle is best known to worldwide television audiences for his award-winning portrayal of the commanding Dr. Peter Benton on the critically acclaimed and history-making medical drama ER. Educated at Juilliard and NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, his credits range from Broadway to film roles opposite Eddie Murphy in Coming to America and Robin Williams in One Hour Photo and Hugh Jackman in Logan.

Bridgett M. Davis (pronounced Brih-jet) is the author of the memoir, Love, Rita, published by Harper Books in spring 2025. 

Quintessential Harlem girl, Gracie Award winner and life-long New Yorker Bevy Smith is the host of Sirius XM’s “Bevelations” on Radio Andy. Once a wildly successful luxury fashion publishing exec, Bevy shifted her professional goals over a decade ago to pursue a life in front of the camera.

“Born, bred, and buttered in Harlem,” as she likes to say, Melba Wilson has used her culinary savvy to open doors for herself, her franchise, her employees, and other members of her community. She is truly a Harlem hero.

Frederick Anderson has been in the thick of New York’s fashion scene for over 20 years.