On this episode of CALL ME WYLLISA, celebrity publicist and host Wyllisa Bennett had the pleasure of sitting down with the incomparable Bahni Turpin, one of the most celebrated audiobook narrators in the world. If you're an audiobook lover, you've likely experienced Turpin’s unforgettable performances in bestselling titles including “The Hate U Give,” “The Sun Is Also a Star,” “The Underground Railroad,” “Children of Blood and Bone” and “Children of Virtue and Vengeance.”

Our conversation explored the artistry behind voice acting and audiobook narration. Turpin shared what it takes to breathe life into characters using nothing but her voice, how she approaches each story and why authentic storytelling matters.

Her extraordinary talent has earned her some of the industry's highest honors, including Narrator of the Year from Audible and Publishers Weekly as well as Audible Hall of Fame. This conversation is a reminder that some of the most powerful performances happen behind the microphone.

#CallMeWyllisa #WyllisaBennett #BahniTurpin #Audiobooks #AudiobookNarrator  #VoiceActing #VoiceActor #Storytelling #BlackVoices #BlackStorytellers #WomenInEntertainment #VoiceOver #Narration #BookLovers #PowerOfTheVoice

A poet, storyteller and communications professional, Mitchell’s remarkable career proves that purpose can evolve while your voice grows stronger. She spent decades serving the City of Los Angeles, beginning as a 911 operator before rising through the ranks to retire as Communications Director for the Office of Los Angeles City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson.

While building an accomplished career in public service, she was also nurturing another calling—her passion for writing. A PEN Center Emerging Voices Fellow and Voices of Our Nation Arts (VONA)

Fellow, Mitchell graciously shared some of her original poetry with us, reminding us that words have the power to heal, connect, and transform. Hearing her perform her work added another layer of depth to an already inspiring conversation and gave us a glimpse into the heart behind the writer.

#CallMeWyllisa #WyllisaBennett #RhondaMitchell #PowerOfThePen #Poetry #PoetLaureate  #BlackWomenWriters #Purpose #Storytelling #WomenInMedia #Publicists

On this episode of CALL ME WYLLISA, the beautiful actress and entrepreneur Malinda Williams shared how her collaboration with W Style to create her own line of handbags reignited a part of herself she hadn't explored in years. Known for her film roles in “The Wood” and “High School High” as well as the tv series “Soul Food,” Williams gives a heartfelt conversation about purpose, faith and the incredible power of manifestation. She shared how being intentional about your thoughts, your words, and your actions can help align you with the life you're meant to live.

She reminded us that manifestation isn't just about wishing for what you want—it's about doing the inner work, trusting God's timing, and boldly walking in your purpose.

#CallMeWyllisa #MalindaWilliams #FaithAndPurpose #PowerOfManifestation #WalkingInPurpose #ManifestYourDreams #IntentionalLiving #WomenInBusiness #BlackWomenInHollywood #Actress  #Reinvention  #PurposeDriven  

The two entertainment industry veterans take a trip down memory lane, reminiscing about the early days of the BET Awards, sharing behind-the-scenes stories and reflecting on how entertainment publicity—and the industry itself—has evolved over the years.

But Zabrina’s journey extends far beyond red carpets and celebrity events. She opens up about a life-changing experience that led her to leave Los Angeles, redefine her purpose and begin an entirely new chapter.

Today, Zabrina is the founder of Music Memory Lane, a nonprofit organization that uses the power of music and movement to create meaningful engagement and enhance the quality of life for older adults, particularly those living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

From Hollywood publicity to community impact, this inspiring conversation explores career transitions, resilience, reinvention and what can happen when you discover a purpose beyond the spotlight.

Hashtags: #CallMeWyllisa #WyllisaBennett #ZabrinaHorton #PublicistToPublicist #BET #BETAwards #CelebrityPublicist #PublicRelations #EntertainmentIndustry #BehindTheScenes #BlackWomenInPR #MusicMemoryLane #AlzheimersAwareness #DementiaAwareness #CommunityImpact

In this thought-provoking episode, Judge Merchant examines the controversial term “legal lynching” and shares important insight into what Black parents should teach the boys and men in their families about understanding and navigating today’s legal system.

Operating at the intersection of law, media and public policy, Judge Merchant brings a unique perspective to the conversation. As a New York Justice, network founder and respected legal commentator, she discusses justice, accountability, media influence and the realities of an evolving legal landscape.

It’s an informative and candid conversation that goes beyond the headlines to explore how the law can impact our families, our communities and our everyday lives.

#CallMeWyllisa #WyllisaBennett #JudgeTaraMerchant #TaraMerchant  #LegalLynching #BlackMenAndTheLaw #BlackFamilies #KnowYourRights  #Justice #BlackCommunity #BlackVoices  #PublicPolicy #CriminalJustice  #BlackMedia

In this candid and personal conversation, Wyllisa and the acclaimed actress, author, producer and advocate reflect on Victoria’s remarkable career, her lifelong commitment to foster care advocacy, and her deeply personal journey to find her father.

The two also revisit a special chapter in their shared history: how Victoria became Wyllisa’s very first client. What began with a chance encounter would ultimately help launch Wyllisa’s career as a Hollywood publicist and change the trajectory of her life for the next 25 years.

Subscribe to Call Me Wyllisa for more conversations, stories and behind-the-scenes experiences.

#CallMeWyllisa #WyllisaBennett #VictoriaRowell #YoungAndTheRestless #DrucillaWinters #DaytimeTV #SoapOpera #BlackWomenInHollywood  #FosterCare #CelebrityPublicist #Actress #Author #Producer #HollywoodStories 

In this episode of Call Me Wyllisa, Wyllisa answers three of the questions she’s asked most often: What does a publicist actually do? How did she become one? And who really needs a publicist?

Wyllisa also gets candid about the realities of publicity, managing clients’ expectations, building visibility, creating compelling stories, and navigating Hollywood.

Subscribe to Call Me Wyllisa for more conversations, stories and behind-the-scenes experiences.

#CallMeWyllisa #WyllisaBennett #PublicRelations #Publicist #EntertainmentPublicist #PRLife #HollywoodPublicist #BlackWomenInMedia #WomenInPR #MediaRelations #VictoriaRowell #PatTobin #BETawards #BehindTheScenes #BlackMedia #Podcast

Together, they take a nostalgic look back at the golden era of daytime talk shows and discuss how the media landscape has evolved over the years, from traditional newsrooms to today's digital-first world. Rolonda also reflects on one of the most memorable moments of her career, her headline-making interview with La Toya Jackson and shares insights from the invaluable wisdom she received from the late Dr. Maya Angelou.

Filled with candid conversation, career lessons, and inspiring stories, this episode celebrates resilience, reinvention, and the enduring power of authentic storytelling.

#CallMeWyllisa #WyllisaBennett #RolondaWatts #Journalism #BlackJournalists #BlackWomenInMedia #MayaAngelou #DaytimeTV #TalkShowHost #MediaIndustry#PersonalGrowth #WomenOver50 #Podcast