We had the good fortune of connecting with S. Michelle Blackwell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi S. Michelle, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
This is both a complicated and simple question to answer. Complicated because there are so many people, places and things that have and are constantly inspiring me that it’s hard to choose just one. But simply put I am inspired by the drive I have to succeed and be better than I was the day before. So I guess you can say I’m inspired by everything in general and specifically, MY own strength to take those things which inspire me and use them for my success. I aspire to inspire people some day.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am an Artist who took the arts so far as to start my own businesses. I first started writing in elementary school and by high school I had produced a few plays and shows I had created. By college I was involved in programs and projects that landed my name in industry “rags.” When I realized I could blend my entrepreneurial mindset with my passion for the arts together to create a business, that’s when BDP Entertainment was formed, in 1990. It wasn’t until the global shutdown/quarantine in 2020, did I find my business taking a nose dive into the abyss. But by the grace of God and a business partner I was able to salvage my business and rebrand it as BDP Entertainment Group. I’d love for women, especially women of color to know that where there’s a will there’s a way. God makes a way out of no way and if we get out of our own way things, miraculous things can and will happen! I whole-heartedly believe that!!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Due to the pandemic and just about everything is closed down or can close down without notice, I would probably just take them sight-seeing: one day take a ride up the coast (by way of P.C.H.) to see the shore and other sights; another day we’d cruise down Hollywood Boulevard so they could see the stars (on the sidewalk); while another day we would just cruising different cities around Los Angeles, grabbing fast food as we roll around. Sorry I couldn’t give a more fun answer

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I know this is going to sound corny but I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my parents Liz and James. They are two sides of the same coin. Both highly intelligent but one is stern yet nurturing (mom) while the other is logical and nurturing (dad). And I thank both of them for always being their authentic selves and showing me how to live my life the same way.

Website: bdpegroup.com

Instagram: @BDPEG2021

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/mblackwell3000

Facebook: facebook.com/Hwdbackdoor/

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