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The room laughed—and Hope chose to build a bigger stage. That’s the energy we bring into this conversation with author, artist, and activist Hope Giselle, a world-changer who turned rejection at a conservative HBCU into a blueprint for queer visibility, campus safety, and unapologetic self-worth. We trace the path from “you’ll never perform here” to founding a student organization, producing a two-hour AIDS benefit in drag, and facing the hidden fees and institutional traps designed to shut it all down. What could have been an end became a playbook: document everything, gather allies, anticipate gatekeeping, and refuse to shrink.

We go deeper at a dorm window where despair almost won—and two Black men from student affairs broke the door off its hinges to pull Hope back. That moment complicates the easy narratives and shows what real allyship can look like in Black communities. From there, we explore the “free” chapter of Hope’s life: a marriage that holds her accountable with love, a circle that won’t let her shrink her height or her light, and a boundary with family that protects her peace. If you’ve wrestled with body image, gendered expectations, or the pressure to be smaller to make others comfortable, this is a practical guide. Hope’s line will stick with you: “Everything exclusive goes on sale.” Set your price. Run your race. Keep your pen.

We also preview Not Your Average Girl—Hope’s new documentary with grassroots screenings in Atlanta, Miami, LA, and DC—and her expanding HIV and AIDS advocacy, including USCHA in Washington, DC. Come for the story; stay for the frameworks you can use today: how to navigate hostile systems, build chosen family, and live out loud without apology. If this conversation moved you, tap follow, share it with someone who needs the reminder, and leave a review to help others find the show. Your voice helps us reach the people still standing at their own window.

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What would happen if you stopped begging for a seat at someone else's table and built your own instead? That's exactly what Kerri Paul, a self-described "regular little southern girl" from Mississippi, decided to do. After leaving corporate America behind, she's now the proud co-owner of three thriving Brick and Spoon restaurants across the Gulf Coast, a content creator, and a mompreneur raising "Irish triplets" while building her empire.

Raised by entrepreneurial parents who showed her that women could be bosses and multiple income streams were normal, Kerri developed a fearless approach to business. When opportunity knocked, she didn't hesitate to take massive risks—selling her custom-built home and moving in with her parents to secure seed money for her first restaurant. "I'm going to take a risk on myself, I'm going to invest in myself," became her mantra.

The southern brunch culture Kerri created through Brick and Spoon isn't just about mimosas and good food (though there's plenty of both). It's about crafting spaces where people feel seen and valued, not just numbers passing through. Her customers sometimes cry when sharing how her story has impacted them, proving that authentic connection builds stronger businesses than corporate strategies ever could.

What distinguishes successful entrepreneurs from dreamers? According to Kerri, it's not intelligence or resources—it's consistency. "Consistency has been the key in everybody I know that has a bag," she explains. Combined with her philosophy that "the only time you fail is when you stop," this mindset has carried her through ventures ranging from a shoe store during the 2008 recession to competing on The Amazing Race.

Ready to build something that reflects your vision and values? Take Kerri advice: "Get out of your own way. There is nothing standing between you and success but yourself." Start now, start imperfect, and remember that every experience—whether conventionally successful or not—gives you tools no one can take away.

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Meet Briannagh D, the 23-year-old musical powerhouse who defies expectations at every turn. From earning her master's degree at Columbia to collaborating with hip-hop legend MC Lyte, she's built an impressive career while maintaining an authenticity that's genuinely refreshing.

The conversation begins with Briannagh sharing her remarkable journey, which started at age 8 singing in church choirs and releasing her first single by 11. What stands out immediately is her uncommon poise and wisdom, something host Alethea Crimmins quickly notices. When asked how she stays so grounded, Briannagh offers a perspective that resonates deeply: "I keep God as the main center and focus of my life." This spiritual foundation, alongside a supportive family, has helped her navigate the inevitable rejections in her entertainment career.

Perhaps most compelling is Briannagh’s candid reflection on failure. Rather than viewing rejection as defeat, she sees it as redirection—protection from what wasn't meant for her. This philosophy has served her well through auditions, competitions, and career setbacks. She admits to being a perfectionist with "plans that have plans," yet works daily to embrace life's unpredictability.

The conversation shifts to her latest single "Realest Wine," featuring MC Lyte—a vibrant dancehall track that fulfills Briannagh longtime dream of creating music that makes people dance. Beyond her musical pursuits, we discover her philanthropic partnership with The Thirst Project, where she's helping provide clean water to communities worldwide.

Throughout the episode, Briannagh demonstrates that success doesn't require sacrificing authenticity. Her closing advice—"Take it one day at a time. Expect three things will go wrong daily"—reveals the balanced perspective that's allowed her to thrive across multiple domains.

Stream "Realest Wine" now and follow Briannagh D across all platforms @BriannaghHD to witness firsthand how this young artist is redefining what it means to live your dreams while staying true to yourself.

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