My Work

Forbes • 2nd March 2025

New Orleans’ Mardi Gras Indians Represent The Connection Of Cultures *Travel*

In February 2021, the usual bustle of New Orleans’ Canal Street stopped when onlookers noticed that the stone pedestal, which had once held a bronze statue dedicated to Confederate President Jefferson Davis, now showcased a plastic-encased Mardi Gras Indian ensemble. This striking garment was a massive, intricately beaded, feathered dark green creation belonging to Demond Melancon, the Big Chief of the Young Seminole Hunters Tribe of the 9th Ward.
Commuters may have thought the suit’s unusual di...

Blavity News & Entertainment • 11th February 2025

Keith Lee Went From DoorDash Driver To Partnering With Them: Here's His Valentine's Day Tips - *Interview*

Planning the perfect Valentine’s Day can be a challenge. Between packed restaurants, scarce parking, and the dreaded possibility of settling for a meal you don’t actually want, the struggle is real. But for social media food critic Keith Lee, the most romantic moments don’t have to be complicated.


“DoorDash and my family go hand in hand,” Lee said.


“The most romantic thing is when you can sit down, order dinner, watch TV, and just enjoy each other’s presence,” he added. “DoorDash has been...

Blavity News & Entertainment • 8th February 2025

Taylor Rooks On Battle Of The Paddles And 'Why People Enjoy Seeing Their Favorite Athletes In Different Elements' - *Interview*

Emmy-nominated sports broadcast journalist Taylor Rooks took her talents to the tables at Super Bowl LIX, competing in Procter & Gamble’s (P&G) Battle of the Paddles on Wednesday.


This marked the third year of the event, and the competition was intense.


“It’s always high stakes and electric! Everybody really wants to win, but it’s such a fun idea,” Rooks told Blavity in a recent interview.


Battle of the Paddles featured four of the NFL’s top table tennis players alongside four celebrity...

Blavity News & Entertainment • 7th February 2025

How Mannie Fresh And Juvenile Are Helping Honor New Orleans During This Year's Super Bowl - *Interview*

Football fans heading to Super Bowl LIX this weekend will experience more than a great game; they will also get to experience the culture of New Orleans.


And who better to welcome the fans to the greatness of NOLA than music royalty Mannie Fresh?


The DJ, rapper and producer will give a private performance alongside fellow NOLA icon Juvenile in the heart of the French Quarter at The Starter House as part of the fan experiences from Starter and Crown Royal. Celebrating their significance in...

Essence • 30th January 2025

Black Women In Wrestling Are Ready To Rumble | Essence *Interviews/Print Article*

This story is featured in the January/February 2025 issue of ESSENCE.


On April 10, 2021, wrestling fans at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, witnessed history. Performers Bianca Belair and Sasha Banks faced off at the 37th annual WrestleMania, the flagship event for World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). This match marked the first time Black women battled each other on the “grandest stage of them all.” Their emotional reactions, as they stared at each other across the ring, highlighted...

Charlotte Observer • 17th January 2025

‘Miles of Magic’: How Disney’s runDisney Marathons ensure fitness and fun for everyone *Travel/Event Coverage*

After completing my first marathon in 2024, I learned running the race is half the battle.

As a plus-size Black woman, I have often felt intimidated or out of place when it came to participating in marathons. When annual marathons are shown across television screens, the athletes they showcase don’t often look like me and would leave me at a loss at where to start.

So, when I chose to participate in Disney’s annual runDisney Marathon, I figured there would be no better way to accomplish a pers...

Blavity News & Entertainment • 17th January 2025

'Hollywood Squares': Inside Iconic Game Show's Reboot On CBS With Nate Burleson And Drew Barrymore - *Interview*

The iconic game show Hollywood Squares is making a highly anticipated return to television, complete with a fresh twist and a star-studded lineup. Produced by Drew Barrymore‘s Flower Films and Jesse Collins Entertainment, the reboot is set to premiere on CBS on Thursday, Jan. 16, at 8 p.m. ET.


Barrymore will occupy the coveted middle square, while Nate Burleson—co-host of CBS Mornings and former NFL player—brings his charismatic personality and signature style to the beloved game show.


“If...

Blavity News & Entertainment • 12th January 2025

Reggie Bush On The Super Bowl Returning To New Orleans: 'Those Are My People' - *Interview*

Former NFL star Reggie Bush will never forget the thrill of winning the 2010 Super Bowl with the New Orleans Saints. Now, he’s excited for the big game to return to the Crescent City this year, offering fans a chance to experience that same magic.


“The Super Bowl’s return to New Orleans puts me right back into the same place as when I got drafted,” Bush told Blavity, recalling how the Saints uplifted the city’s morale after Hurricane Katrina.


Bush fondly remembers the connection he built w...

Blavity News & Entertainment • 31st December 2024

Sha'Carri Richardson On Helping Young Creatives Use Fashion And Personal Style To Get On The Fast Track To Financial Freedom - *Interview*

Two-time Olympic medalist Sha’Carri Richardson is spearheading a new campaign, titled “Your POV, Your Power.” This initiative celebrates the influence of young creative entrepreneurs, empowering them to shape the future of fashion through their unique perspectives and innovative approaches.


Known for her bold and distinct style both on and off the track, Richardson is an ideal athlete that comes to mind when thinking about merging fashion and athletics. In her conversations with entrepreneurs...

Black Wall Street Times • 19th December 2024

'We're just getting started': Snoop Dogg takes cannabis empire digital with SWED.com - *Interview*

LOS ANGELES – Snoop Dogg has expanded his Smoke Weed Every Day (S.W.E.D.) cannabis empire by recently launching the e-commerce site SWED.com.SWED.com is a direct-to-consumer marketplace built on the successful summer openings of the S.W.E.D. dispensary in Los Angeles and the coffee shop in Amsterdam. Snoop brought his passion for cannabis to the digital space on Dec. 4, precisely at 4:20 p.m.The online store will feature a curated selection of authentic Snoop Dogg and Death Row Records branded h...

InClub Magazine • 18th December 2024

Stay on Santa's Good Side: The Best Last Minute Christmas Gifts *Shopping Guide*

No matter how many reminders you set or “to-do” lists you write, you will always need a last-minute Christmas gift. We know the pressure to find the perfect one can be overwhelming. But, plenty of thoughtful and enjoyable options can be delivered quickly or found in-store. So, before you give up and let your holiday spirit turn into holiday stress, here are a few last minute Christmas gifts that will land under the tree just in time to keep your name off Santa’s naughty list.
 
The Foldie Travel...

Blavity News & Entertainment • 5th December 2024

Los Angeles Sparks' Rae Burrell On Her Awe-Worthy Fashions, WNBA's Recent Growth: 'You Look Good, You Feel Good, You Play Good' - *Interview*

Since entering the WNBA in 2022, Rae Burrell has been one of the most enjoyable players to watch on and off the court.


Since her time at the University of Tennessee, the 6-foot-2 guard/forward has excelled as a stand-out player. Burrell was a two-year starter during college and earned All-SEC Second Team honors in 2021. She averaged 12.3 points and 3.9 rebounds per game as a Lady Volunteer, totaling 1,131 points during her collegiate career.


In the 2022 WNBA Draft, the Los Angeles Sparks s...

Blavity News & Entertainment • 2nd December 2024

Tiana's Bayou Adventure Officially Makes Its Grand Splash, Bringing Beloved Disney Film Character's World To Life - *Travel*

The highly anticipated Tiana’s Bayou Adventure officially made a grand splash at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, California, on Nov. 15. The new attraction kicked off Disney’s holiday season and brings the culture and vibrancy of New Orleans, inspired by the beloved animated film The Princess and the Frog.


During the Mardi Gras-esque opening weekend, guests got to head down to the newly renamed Bayou Country with Anika Noni Rose (Tiana), Jenifer Lewis (Mama Odie) and Michael-Leon Wooley (Louis th...

Blavity News & Entertainment • 1st December 2024

'Second Chance Stage,' Judged By Taye Diggs And More, Gives People Another Chance To Go After Their Dream - *Interview*

Everyone has a dream, but often, life gets in the way, and we see them change or sadly float away. In Magnolia Network and Max’s newest talent competition series, Second Chance Stage, a few lucky contestants are getting another opportunity to pursue their heart’s desires.


The show focuses on redemption and resilience and allows contestants—musicians, comedians, and performers—to share their personal stories of struggle and perseverance.


“It’s very special to see people who thought all hope...

Black Wall Street Times • 25th November 2024

'Big Diva Energy': Big Freedia On Launching THC Energy Drink 'Wobble'- *Interview*

If anyone knows how to bring the energy, it’s Big Freedia, and now the iconic bounce artist is taking it up a notch with a new energy drink.Freedia has teamed up with Crescent Canna, a New Orleans cannabis company, to create Wobble Sparkling THC Energy Drink, a delicious and energizing THC beverage with the perfect dose of bounce.Wobble Sparkling THC Energy Drink blends Freedia’s favorite ripe strawberries and tropical pineapple flavors with hemp-derived THC extract for a delightful, bubbly beve...

EBONY • 16th November 2024

Rest And Resistance: 10 Black-Owned Spaces Where We Can Find Self-Care Post-Election - *Travel*

For many Black Americans, the result of the 2024 presidential election came with a wave of emotions ranging from PTSD from Donald Trump's former presidential term to uncertainty about our human rights.

For some, the initial thought was to flee the country—or at least the moment.

As evident on social media, watch-party streams and conversations across the country, realizing what type of leadership would be entering the White House on Jan. 20, 2025, put people into an instant state of stress and...

Blavity News & Entertainment • 9th November 2024

Naomi Osaka On Being Inspired By Co-Designing A Jewelry Drop With This Etsy Seller - *Interview*

Tennis superstar Naomi Osaka has a keen eye on and off the court. Osaka is partnering with online marketplace Etsy to serve up a special holiday gift guide showcasing unique and creative items.


Osaka was inspired to curate the guide after judging this year’s Etsy Design Awards and being introduced to some talented artisans and creators who utilize the platform to reach customers worldwide.


Along with Drew Barrymore, Etsy’s honorary chief gifting officer, Osaka picked 11 winners from 100 fi...

Blavity News & Entertainment • 30th October 2024

Skip Marley Continues The Marley Legacy And Is 'Bringing The Vibes To A New Generation' With New Single - *Interview*

To no one’s surprise, Grammy-nominated artist Skip Marley knows how to make good music. As the grandson of reggae icon Bob Marley, he didn’t have to look far to find incredible influences, but at 28 years old, Marley is building his own legacy.  


In 2015, Marley released his first two singles, “Cry to Me” and “Life,” under the infamous Tuff Gong music label founded by his grandfather in 1970. Later that year, he joined his uncles Damian and Stephen Marley on their Catch a Fire tour. Throughou...

Blavity News & Entertainment • 16th October 2024

Ari Lennox Talks Natural Hair And New Music: 'I'm Embracing My More Unhinged, Rageful Side' - *Interview*

Since first appearing on the music scene, Ari Lennox has authentically represented Black womanhood and natural beauty, and her newest partnership holds true to that.


Earlier this month, the Grammy-nominated R&B singer partnered with KISS Colors & Care to spotlight its new Edge Fixer Extreme, formulated explicitly for 4C hair, and the versatile Edge Fixer Wax Stick. 


“It’s an honor because I’ve loved the company ever since I was young,” Lennox told Blavity in a recent interview. The “A/S/L...

Blavity News & Entertainment • 12th October 2024

Here's What To Know About 'Roller Jam' And What Jordin Sparks, Johnny Weir And Terrell Ferguson Say About The Max Series - *Interview*

Roller Jam, a fun, new competition series from Max and Magnolia Network, rolled onto screens this week. Hosted by singer and actor Jordin Sparks, the show features talented teams from across the country competing for the title of America’s best roller-dancing team.


In the six episodes, teams will be judged by a panel of judges, including two-time Olympian and national figure skating champion Johnny Weir and Terrell Ferguson, a professional dancer/choreographer and roller skater.






“I’m...

Essence • 8th October 2024

Award-Winning Chef Andrew Black Is Helping Travelers Experience Morocco Through Their Tastebuds | Essence - *Interview/Travel*

Born and bred in Jamaica, James Beard Award-winning chef Andrew Black’s lifelong passion for cooking was inspired by the diverse flavors utilized by his Indian grandmother.


“I grew up in a Hindu family,” the Oklahoma City-based chef, known for eateries Grey Sweater, The Gilded Acorn, Black Walnut, and most recently, Perle Mesta, through his Culinary Edge hospitality group, says while recounting the dishes he learned to make at his paternal grandmother’s side. “Mullangi chutney, Takari, Dhal P...

Raleigh News & Observer • 24th September 2024

Cost-conscious travelers discover luxury at The Pierside Santa Monica in Southern California - *Travel*

Located on the sun-drenched shores of Santa Monica, California, The Pierside Santa Monica offers a mix of modern luxury and coastal charm. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a 16-story acrylic mega mural on the hotel’s exterior by American artist Shepard Fairey – famous for Barack Obama’s 2008 iconic “Hope” poster – capturing the vibe of downtown Santa Monica culture.

Check-in is easy, and the hotel’s valet parking adds to the convenience of the location. When entering the lobby, the airy an...

Blavity News & Entertainment • 18th September 2024

2 Chainz Backs This Initiative Awarding Over $350K In Scholarship Funds For HBCU STEM Students - *Interview*

2 Chainz‘s latest partnership is helping HBCU students looking to bring some flavor to the world of STEM.


Last month, PepsiCo and the PepsiCo Foundation announced they would invest $350,000 in financial support and provide additional resources to historically Black colleges and universities, particularly for students pursuing careers in culinary innovation, food science and technology. 2 Chainz is partnering with PepsiCo to spread the word about their new “Taste of Tomorrow” scholarship....

Blavity News & Entertainment • 18th September 2024

Flavor Flav On Swapping Out His Clock Necklace For The 'Pop Clock': 'It's Very Special' - *Interview*

Flavor Flav’s new partnership is one that has him giving a twist to his iconic clock.


Smartfood Popcorn’s lineup is all about the flavor, and the brand is teaming up with its very first “Flavor Genie,” legendary rapper Flavor Flav, to announce the new mouthwatering varieties.


“My name is Flavor, Flavor Flav! I don’t know anyone better to represent these flavors than myself, the ambassador of flavor,” the rapper recently told Blavity in an interview.


Smartfood’s Flavors You Can Feel Good...