Phae’s Place

This episode is for the screenwriters! We’re talking about tips that will help you push your scripts from good to great.  Phaedra reveals her personal process for editing and refining—because good stories are built, not born. Tune in to learn how to unlock you’re story’s full potential. You will discover: Strategies to help with crafting authentic dialogue How analyzing comps will assist in making...

Imagine turning a childhood love for singing into a thriving cultural empire. That’s exactly what happened when Ahmaya-Knoelle along with her parents, Vy Higgensen and Ken Wydro ventured into the world of theatre. In this conversation, she shares her inspiring story —from growing up in Harlem, inspired by gospel, to building the Mama Foundation for the Arts, which has provided over 20 years of mus...

This week host, Phaedra, shares the history of Black Music Appreciation Month as well as what aspiring artists can glean from the career of Victoria Monét. Although we may want  immediate results, strategy rooted in resilience turns small beginnings into long-term success. In this episode, you’ll discover: Practical tips for independent artists  The importance of strategic branding How lessons fro...

This week, one of the most influential figures in Gospel Music and television, Dr. Bobby Jones, helps us celebrate Black Music Appreciation Month. From a self-taught musician to a media pioneer, he is credited with the longest-running original series in cable history! You'll learn: how he mastered his craft without formal training, turning humble beginnings into a multi-decade empire. his unique a...

Guess who’s helping us celebrate Black Music Appreciation Month? Freda Payne shares how she navigated early fame, turned down management from Berry Gordy, and hit superstardom with her iconic hit "Band of Gold."  You'll uncover: Behind-the-scenes stories that shaped her career Lessons learned about success in the music industry Insights into longevity in the entertainment world Discover the incred...

Happy Black Music Appreciation Month! Join us for an episode of Mentor Monday as Phaedra discusses the life, work, career and dream of music executive, Berry Gordy. He revolutionized the American entertainment industry by transforming Motown from a Detroit dream into a worldwide phenomenon. Discover how a poem, a boxing obsession, and a simple assembly-line mindset shaped the legendary music mogul...

Join Phaedra as she gives a deep analysis of the biopic, Michael , that unpacks not just the story, but the artistry hidden within every frame. From Nia Long’s powerful subtlety to Coleman Domingo’s empathetic Joe Jackson, learn how casting, wardrobe, and direction shape our perception of prominent figures—and why it matters to every aspiring creative. You'll discover: The secret language of “look...

Most people settle for just one dream—Dawnn Lewis defies that norm by building a multi-faceted career in entertainment, inspiring others to harness every talent they possess. From Broadway to TV, her journey proves that embracing all of your gifts can unlock doors you never imagined.  You’ll discover: The inspiration behind the theme song of A Different World How to leverage your unique talents as...

Have you ever felt stuck or doubted your storytelling chops? This episode will give you the blueprint for turning raw inspiration into a Hollywood-ready screenplay. Ryan Engle, the mind behind blockbuster hits like Rampage and The Beast , shares the inside scoop on his writing rituals, from how he develops characters for specific actors to navigating the turbulent waters of studio feedback.  You&#...

Join in the second part of our conversation with actress, Starletta DuPois! In true mentor fashion, she shares candid stories from her decades-long career and wisdom that offers a blueprint for living with integrity, love, and resilience. In this episode, you’ll discover: • How to balance a full time job while pursuing your dreams • Why forgiveness is the key for success. • What keeps her motivate...

Unlock the extraordinary journey of Starletta DuPois—an actress whose lifetime of resilience, social justice advocacy, and artistic brilliance redefines what it means to succeed against all odds. From humble beginnings in Philadelphia to Broadway stardom, her story reveals the  power of gambling on oneself and embracing every struggle as a stepping stone. In this episode, you’ll discover: What are...

Director, Christine Swanson, stops by Phae’s Place to share honest lessons that shaped her career. She explores how embracing mistakes and stepping into her ‘majesty,’ transformed her leadership and artistry. In this inspiring episode, you'll discover: How a chance moment at Notre Dame and a conversation with Spike Lee ignited her passion for filmmaking. What were some of the behind-the-scenes...

From a childhood dream of being a professional tap dancer to skyrocketing as a writer on hits like Netflix’s The Witcher , Rae’s story reveals the true hustle behind breaking into Hollywood without conventional training. She is dedicated to empowering Black Creatives as well as other People of Color through her business, In the Cut LA, sharing insider knowledge to democratize access in entertainme...

This episode is for those who love Broadway! We talk with the incomparable Joseph Joubert. He shares how his childhood dreams of architecture evolved into a multifaceted career—spanning concert pianist, orchestrator, Broadway conductor, and arranger—showing that versatility fuels success in the arts. You'll uncover: How church and mentorship shapes a successful musical career What are some of...

Uncover how a Long Island native went from dreaming of singing on stage to capturing the world’s biggest celebrities and events behind the lens. Ashé Davis trusted her eye, took risks, and built a reputation with genuine authenticity that led her from informal childhood photos to shooting superstars like Ciara, Meg Thee Stallion, and Noah Lyles.  You’ll discover: Why it’s important to show your wo...

Join Phaedra as she tackles the phase of fitness! Personal trainer, Toni Lewis-Noble,  uncovers how exercise and faith cultivate mental clarity, confidence, and even alter our perceptions of body image. Her journey emphasizes the importance of community, self-love, and perseverance—proof that it's never too late to reinvent yourself. You'll discover: How faith and fitness can elevate menta...

Join Phaedra as she talks with BernNadette Stanis, the trailblazing star of  Good Times .  As the first Black teenage girl to grace television with a powerful, relatable character, her career is a masterclass in resilience, authenticity, and purpose that will inspire you to chase your own dreams unapologetically. You'll discover: How discipline in theatre and performance develop skills that ar...

In this episode, Phaedra celebrates women who refuse to let age define them. She highlights  the inspiring stories of Deborah Vance from HBO's  Hacks , Kathy Bates' portrayal of Madeline Matlock on Matlock , and the heartfelt journey of Grace Davis and Maggie Sherwood in  The High Note .  Discover how these characters confront societal expectations, leverage their life experience, and rewrite the...

Most people believe that simply having a mentor will fast-track their success. But what if the real secret isn't just access—it's what you do with it? In this eye-opening episode, Phaedra reveals the unspoken rules of mentorship that separate those who are successful from those who settle.  Drawing from stories of top performers like Beyoncé and Chloe, as well as her own lessons learned al...

Unlock the power of dreaming big—Michelle Duffie, a trailblazing film marketing powerhouse, shares how being unhoused as a child sparked her fearless journey from the music industry to the movie industry. We talk about how she transformed adversity into an unstoppable drive to tell stories that uplift, empower, and inspire change.  In this episode, Michelle reveals the emotional resilience that sh...

Most TV couples reveal what real love looks like — and it’s more than just chemistry. On this episode of Phae’s Place, we discover the secret ingredients behind the lasting love of iconic television couples and learn how these timeless traits can transform your own relationships. We’ll discuss: The importance of friendship as the foundation of trust How shared background and common dreams strength...

Most aspiring artists overlook the power of strategic planning—and it costs them. To help us celebrate Black History Month, Ramon Hervey II reveals how to build longevity in the world of entertainment, turning fleeting fame into enduring success. He is a renowned publicist, manager, author, and industry insider who have worked with legends across music, film, and television. He is a trusted name b...

If you've ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes of fashion week or how to turn your unique features into your greatest assets, this episode is your blueprint for breaking in and standing out. Liana Diane shares her insights as a shy girl dreaming to walking on runways and landing a feature on "Next In Fashion " on Netflix — all while being a licensed therapist . You&#39...

Join Phaedra in her conversation with Eboni Funderburk who highlights the journey from a young music enthusiast to a prominent figure in the Gospel music industry. She discusses her early love for music, her experiences working at "Gospel Today, " and the challenges she faced as an African American woman in the industry. Eboni also talks about her leap of faith in starting her own busine...

We're spilling the tea...Phaedra shares her candid experiences and insights from the entertainment industry. From her unexpected journey into theater to the challenges of navigating a world where talent often goes unrecognized until proven, Phaedra offers her hot takes on authenticity, perseverance, and the importance of small wins. Join her as she encourages listeners to pursue their dreams,...