"A ​friend ​of ​mine ​once ​told ​me, ​he ​said, ​'you ​don't ​build ​houses, ​you ​direct' ​because building ​a ​home ​is ​the ​same ​way ​that ​I ​direct. ​I ​don't ​know ​which ​comes ​first, if ​anything, ​I ​try ​to ​curate ​whatever ​it ​is ​I'm ​doing ​to ​create ​a ​transportive ​moment, ​or ​moments, ​multiple ​moments ​that ​take ​you ​someplace, ​and ​that's ​what ​sticks. ​That's ​what ​resonates. ​That's ​a ​goal, ​but ​that's ​intentional."  Eriq La Salle


Many of you will recognize my guest and friend, Eriq La Salle, from his long career in film and television. Reflecting on his journey from childhood dreams in Hartford to breakout Hollywood success, Eric shares behind-the-scenes stories from his iconic roles, including landing the role of the main antagonist, Darryl Jenks, heir to the Soul Glow hair product dynasty, in Eddie Murphy's Coming to America after a single audition, as well as  advocating for better Black representation during his groundbreaking portrayal of Dr. Peter Benton for eight seasons on the award-winning medical drama ER.

Alongside his acting career, Eriq is an accomplished author, having published novels and novellas in his Martyr Maker thriller series. His just released novel, Laws of Annihilation, is the 3rd installment in the series and "a brilliant and bloody cop thriller," says Adrian McKinty, a New York Times best-selling author of The Chain. 

We learn about Eriq's creative process writing complex novels that interweave social commentary with page-turning mystery. His reflections on spirituality and friendship reveal him as a deep thinker who brings heart to all his artistic pursuits. He also happens to be one of the coolest and most down-to-earth brothers I know.

Instagram: Corner Table Talk  and Post and Beam Hospitality

LinkedIn: Brad Johnson Hospitality

E.Mail:  brad@postandbeamhospitality.com

For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/

Theme Music: Bryce Vine

Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC

<blockquote>
"A ​friend ​of ​mine ​once ​told ​me, ​he ​said, ​'you ​don't ​build ​houses, ​you ​direct' ​because building ​a ​home ​is ​the ​same ​way ​that ​I ​direct. ​I ​don't ​know ​which ​comes ​first, if ​anything, ​I ​try ​to ​curate ​whatever ​it ​is ​I'm ​doing ​to ​create ​a ​transportive ​moment, ​or ​moments, ​multiple ​moments ​that ​take ​you ​someplace, ​and ​that's ​what ​sticks. ​That's ​what ​resonates. ​That's ​a ​goal, ​but ​that's ​intentional."  Eriq La Salle
</blockquote>
 Many of you will recognize my guest and friend, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eriqlasalle/">Eriq La Salle</a>, from his long career in film and television. Reflecting on his journey from childhood dreams in Hartford to breakout Hollywood success, Eric shares behind-the-scenes stories from his iconic roles, including landing the role of the main antagonist, Darryl Jenks, heir to the Soul Glow hair product dynasty, in Eddie Murphy's <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0094898/">Coming to America</a> after a single audition, as well as  advocating for better Black representation during his groundbreaking portrayal of Dr. Peter Benton for eight seasons on the award-winning medical drama <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0108757/">ER</a>.
Alongside his acting career, Eriq is an accomplished author, having published novels and novellas in his Martyr Maker thriller series. His just released novel, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Laws-Annihilation-Martyr-Maker-3/dp/1728261066/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=laws+of+annihilation&amp;qid=1698366880&amp;sr=8-1">Laws of Annihilation</a>, is the 3rd installment in the series and "a brilliant and bloody cop thriller," says Adrian McKinty, a New York Times best-selling author of The Chain. 
We learn about Eriq's creative process writing complex novels that interweave social commentary with page-turning mystery. His reflections on spirituality and friendship reveal him as a deep thinker who brings heart to all his artistic pursuits. He also happens to be one of the coolest and most down-to-earth brothers I know.
<hr>
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cornertabletalk/?hl=en">Corner Table Talk</a>  and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/postandbeamhospitality/?hl=en">Post and Beam Hospitality</a>
LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-johnson-hospitality/">Brad Johnson Hospitality</a>
E.Mail:  <a href="mailto:brad@postandbeamhospitality.com">brad@postandbeamhospitality.com</a>
For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: <a href="https://postandbeamhospitality.com/">https://postandbeamhospitality.com/</a>
Theme Music: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/brycevine/?hl=en">Bryce Vine</a>
Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post &amp; Beam Hospitality LLC

After years of lowering the velvet rope and pulling out chairs on both coasts for countless guests, Brad Johnson puts his warm, present and welcoming hospitality skills to use as the host of Corner Table Talk, covering topics spanning FOOD + DRINK + CULTURE. Following the guest conversation, international speaker, writer, and diplomat Ambassador Shabazz (eldest daughter of Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz) spends a few moments unpacking the discussion and lets us in on some of the interesting people, places, and things that have her attention in HOW WE MOVE.

Brad Johnson’s career in hospitality began in the early 70s in the dish pit of his father’s renowned NYC restaurant, The Cellar, followed by his subsequent storied road creating high profile establishments, from the lavish LA nightclub The Roxbury (yes, that Roxbury) to the Melrose Avenue soulful hotspot, Georgia, and the James Beard Award-nominated Post & Beam.

Instagram: cornertabletalk and postandbeamhospitality

LinkedIn: Brad Johnson Hospitality

E.Mail:  brad@postandbeamhospitality.com

For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/

Theme Music: Bryce Vine

Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC

After years of lowering the velvet rope and pulling out chairs on both coasts for countless guests, Brad Johnson puts his warm, present and welcoming hospitality skills to use as the host of Corner Table Talk, covering topics spanning FOOD + DRINK + CULTURE. Following the guest conversation, international speaker, writer, and diplomat Ambassador Shabazz (eldest daughter of Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz) spends a few moments unpacking the discussion and lets us in on some of the interesting people, places, and things that have her attention in HOW WE MOVE.
<hr>
Brad Johnson’s career in hospitality began in the early 70s in the dish pit of his father’s renowned NYC restaurant, The Cellar, followed by his subsequent storied road creating high profile establishments, from the lavish LA nightclub The Roxbury (yes, that Roxbury) to the Melrose Avenue soulful hotspot, Georgia, and the James Beard Award-nominated Post &amp; Beam.
<hr>
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cornertabletalk/?hl=en">cornertabletalk</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/postandbeamhospitality/?hl=en">postandbeamhospitality</a>
LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-johnson-hospitality/">Brad Johnson Hospitality</a>      <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-johnson-hospitality/"></a>
E.Mail:  <a href="mailto:brad@postandbeamhospitality.com">brad@postandbeamhospitality.com</a>
For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: <a href="https://postandbeamhospitality.com/">https://postandbeamhospitality.com/</a>
Theme Music: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/brycevine/?hl=en">Bryce Vine</a>
Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post &amp; Beam Hospitality LLC

Corner Table Talk

After years of lowering the velvet rope and pulling out chairs on both coasts for countless guests, Brad Johnson puts his warm, present and welcoming hospitality skills to use as the host of Corner Table Talk, covering topics spanning FOOD + DRINK + CULTURE. Following the guest conversation, international speaker, writer, and diplomat Ambassador Shabazz (eldest daughter of Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz) spends a few moments unpacking the discussion and lets us in on some of the interesting people, places, and things that have her attention in HOW WE MOVE.

Brad Johnson’s career in hospitality began in the early 70s in the dish pit of his father’s renowned NYC restaurant, The Cellar, followed by his subsequent storied road creating high profile establishments, from the lavish LA nightclub The Roxbury (yes, that Roxbury) to the Melrose Avenue soulful hotspot, Georgia, and the James Beard Award-nominated Post & Beam.

Instagram: cornertabletalk and postandbeamhospitality

LinkedIn: Brad Johnson

E.Mail:  brad@postandbeamhospitality.com

For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/

Theme Music: Bryce Vine

Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC

After years of lowering the velvet rope and pulling out chairs on both coasts for countless guests, Brad Johnson puts his warm, present and welcoming hospitality skills to use as the host of Corner Table Talk, covering topics spanning FOOD + DRINK + CULTURE. Following the guest conversation, international speaker, writer, and diplomat Ambassador Shabazz (eldest daughter of Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz) spends a few moments unpacking the discussion and lets us in on some of the interesting people, places, and things that have her attention in HOW WE MOVE.
<hr>
Brad Johnson’s career in hospitality began in the early 70s in the dish pit of his father’s renowned NYC restaurant, The Cellar, followed by his subsequent storied road creating high profile establishments, from the lavish LA nightclub The Roxbury (yes, that Roxbury) to the Melrose Avenue soulful hotspot, Georgia, and the James Beard Award-nominated Post &amp; Beam.
<hr>
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cornertabletalk/?hl=en">cornertabletalk</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/postandbeamhospitality/?hl=en">postandbeamhospitality</a>
LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-johnson-hospitality/">Brad Johnson</a>      <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-johnson-hospitality/"></a>
E.Mail:  <a href="mailto:brad@postandbeamhospitality.com">brad@postandbeamhospitality.com</a>
For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: <a href="https://postandbeamhospitality.com/">https://postandbeamhospitality.com/</a>
Theme Music: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/brycevine/?hl=en">Bryce Vine</a>
Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post &amp; Beam Hospitality LLC

S3:E9 Eriq La Salle I Creating Transformative Moments

"The future in this country is one where the folks setting the pace will be more diverse than ever. That’s baked in, and while there’s backlash, the numbers will ultimately tell the tale."Clarence Otis

Clarence Otis Jr., former Chairman and CEO of Darden Restaurants Inc., is busy these days serving on the Boards of Verizon as Lead Director, of Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group, and as chairman of Jazz at Lincoln Center, among others. During his 10 years of leadership at Darden which ended in 2014, whose brands include Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Seasons 52, Yard House, and Capital Grille, the company achieved remarkable sales growth.

Otis reflects on his time at Darden and provides insights into the sale of Red Lobster during his tenure, and how public policies often inadvertently favor larger companies, making it difficult for smaller, independent businesses to thrive. Otis reveals his views on immigration’s role in hospitality and discusses AI's potential to automate certain restaurant functions, particularly in back-office tasks.

Growing up in Watts shaped Clarence's perspective on fairness and opportunity. He learned from his father that positive family influence and a strong work ethic are crucial to success. Sharing our mutual love of jazz, we discussed the genre's state and its struggle to attract younger audiences in the US.

Our discussion concludes with Otis’s optimism about America's diverse future and his belief in resilience amid changing demographics. His journey showcases how leaders can rise to significant roles while staying true to their values, as a model of how strategic vision and a commitment to equity can lead to impactful, lasting success.

Thank you my longtime friend Eric Williams for connecting me with Clarence.

CHAPTERS
[00:00:00] Introduction and Guest Overview
[00:02:19] Challenges in the Restaurant Industry
[00:07:10] California as a Business Environment
[00:12:55] Impact of AI and Technology on Hospitality
[00:16:03] Consumer Behavior and Economic Trends
[00:17:42] Clarence’s Childhood in South Los Angeles
[00:22:34] Navigating Gang Culture and Community Dynamics
[00:26:20] Father’s Work Ethic and Life Lessons
[00:31:52] Parenting Philosophy
[00:33:06] Diversity in Corporate Leadership
[00:38:27] The Sale of Red Lobster
[00:43:20] Cultural Reflections on Entertainment and Branding
[00:50:15] Jazz and the Arts
[00:52:36] Effective Communication and Leadership
[00:53:39] Optimism About the Future


WATCH ON YOUTUBE
Watch the full VIDEO episode on the Corner Table Talk channel on YouTube and please subscribe to experience the celebration of food, culture, and community.

Instagram: @Corner Table Talk  and @Post and Beam Hospitality

LinkedIn: Brad Johnson Hospitality

E.Mail:  brad@postandbeamhospitality.comFor more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/

Theme Music: Bryce Vine

Produced by: Corner Table Media, a division of Post & Beam Hospitality

Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC

<blockquote>
"The future in this country is one where the folks setting the pace will be more diverse than ever. That’s baked in, and while there’s backlash, the numbers will ultimately tell the tale." Clarence Otis
</blockquote>
Clarence Otis Jr., former Chairman and CEO of Darden Restaurants Inc., is busy these days serving on the Boards of <a href="https://www.verizon.com/about/investors/clarence-otis-jr-lead-director">Verizon</a> as Lead Director, of Danny Meyer’s <a href="https://www.ushg.com/">Union Square Hospitality Group</a>, and as chairman of <a href="https://jazz.org/about-us/leadership/">Jazz at Lincoln Center</a>, among others. During his 10 years of leadership at Darden which ended in 2014, whose brands include Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Seasons 52, Yard House, and Capital Grille, the company achieved remarkable sales growth.
Otis reflects on his time at Darden and provides insights into the sale of Red Lobster during his tenure, and how public policies often inadvertently favor larger companies, making it difficult for smaller, independent businesses to thrive. Otis reveals his views on immigration’s role in hospitality and discusses AI's potential to automate certain restaurant functions, particularly in back-office tasks.
Growing up in Watts shaped Clarence's perspective on fairness and opportunity. He learned from his father that positive family influence and a strong work ethic are crucial to success. Sharing our mutual love of jazz, we discussed the genre's state and its struggle to attract younger audiences in the US.
Our discussion concludes with Otis’s optimism about America's diverse future and his belief in resilience amid changing demographics. His journey showcases how leaders can rise to significant roles while staying true to their values, as a model of how strategic vision and a commitment to equity can lead to impactful, lasting success.
Thank you my longtime friend Eric Williams for connecting me with Clarence.
CHAPTERS
<ol>
<li>[00:00:00] Introduction and Guest Overview</li>
<li>[00:02:19] Challenges in the Restaurant Industry</li>
<li>[00:07:10] California as a Business Environment</li>
<li>[00:12:55] Impact of AI and Technology on Hospitality</li>
<li>[00:16:03] Consumer Behavior and Economic Trends</li>
<li>[00:17:42] Clarence’s Childhood in South Los Angeles</li>
<li>[00:22:34] Navigating Gang Culture and Community Dynamics</li>
<li>[00:26:20] Father’s Work Ethic and Life Lessons</li>
<li>[00:31:52] Parenting Philosophy</li>
<li>[00:33:06] Diversity in Corporate Leadership</li>
<li>[00:38:27] The Sale of Red Lobster</li>
<li>[00:43:20] Cultural Reflections on Entertainment and Branding</li>
<li>[00:50:15] Jazz and the Arts</li>
<li>[00:52:36] Effective Communication and Leadership</li>
<li>[00:53:39] Optimism About the Future
<ul></ul>
</li>
</ol>
<hr>
WATCH ON YOUTUBE Watch the full VIDEO episode on the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@CornerTableTalk">Corner Table Talk channel on YouTube</a> and please subscribe to experience the celebration of food, culture, and community.
Instagram: @<a href="https://www.instagram.com/cornertabletalk/?hl=en">Corner Table Talk</a>  and @<a href="https://www.instagram.com/postandbeamhospitality/?hl=en">Post and Beam Hospitality</a>
LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-johnson-hospitality/">Brad Johnson Hospitality</a>
E.Mail:  <a href="mailto:brad@postandbeamhospitality.com">brad@postandbeamhospitality.com</a>For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: <a href="https://postandbeamhospitality.com/">https://postandbeamhospitality.com/</a>
Theme Music: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/brycevine/?hl=en">Bryce Vine</a>
Produced by: Corner Table Media, a division of Post &amp; Beam Hospitality<a href="mailto:brad@postandbeamhospitality.com"></a>
Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post &amp; Beam Hospitality LLC

S4:E5 Clarence Otis Jr. I From Watts to the Corner Office

"I'm an activist with an artistic mask on."   Jeff Friday

The 28th Annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) takes place in Miami, June 12-16, 2024. This year's event promises to be bigger and better than ever, with a stellar lineup of films, panel discussions, parties, workshops, and masterclasses. Notable attendees include Denzel Washington, Kerry Washington, and Issa Rae.

I sat down with my long-time friend, Jeff Friday, a trailblazer in the world of black cinema and the mastermind behind ABFF to share the festival’s evolution from Acapulco to Miami, his passion for black culture, and his desire to advance opportunities for black filmmakers.

Our discussion includes Jeff’s perspective on the current state of black cinema. He expressed concern about the challenges facing black filmmakers today, particularly the shift away from diversity in Hollywood and the impact of streaming services on the theatrical business. Despite these challenges, Jeff remains optimistic and committed to supporting black filmmakers and promoting their work.

Jeff's company, formerly ABFF Ventures and now Nice Crowd, specializes in developing and marketing festivals and live experiences highlighting BIPOC culture and achievements. Jeff's vision for Nice Crowd includes creating events that promote black culture and community in various settings, from film festivals to wellness retreats.

A graduate of Howard University with an MBA from NYU's prestigious School of Business, Jeff’s numerous accolades include NYU’s Global Trailblazer Award for Entrepreneurial Innovation, and being named one of Hollywood's Top 50 Power Brokers by Black Enterprise. He has received keys to Miami, Miami Beach, and Newark, which also proclaimed his birthday “Jeff Friday Day.”

Jeff Friday's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of representation and the impact that one person with keen instincts can have on an entire industry.

HOW WE MOVE. Stay tuned to the end of the guest interview when international speaker, writer, and diplomat Ambassador Shabazz (daughter of Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz) spends a few moments unpacking the discussion, and highlighting some of the interesting people, places, and things that have her attention.

WATCH on our YOUTUBE channel or SPOTIFY and please subscribe to experience the celebration of food, culture, and community.

Instagram: @Corner Table Talk  and @Post and Beam Hospitality

LinkedIn: Brad Johnson Hospitality

E.Mail:  brad@postandbeamhospitality.com

For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/

Theme Music: Bryce Vine

Produced by: Corner Table Media, a division of Post & Beam Hospitality

Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC

<blockquote>
"I'm an activist with an artistic mask on."   Jeff Friday
</blockquote>
The<a href="https://www.abff.com/miami/schedule/"> 28th Annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) </a>takes place in Miami, June 12-16, 2024. This year's event promises to be bigger and better than ever, with a stellar lineup of films, panel discussions, parties, workshops, and masterclasses. Notable attendees include Denzel Washington, Kerry Washington, and Issa Rae.
I sat down with my long-time friend,<a href="https://www.instagram.com/jefffriday/?hl=en"> Jeff Friday,</a> a trailblazer in the world of black cinema and the mastermind behind ABFF to share the festival’s evolution from Acapulco to Miami, his passion for black culture, and his desire to advance opportunities for black filmmakers.
Our discussion includes Jeff’s perspective on the current state of black cinema. He expressed concern about the challenges facing black filmmakers today, particularly the shift away from diversity in Hollywood and the impact of streaming services on the theatrical business. Despite these challenges, Jeff remains optimistic and committed to supporting black filmmakers and promoting their work.
Jeff's company, formerly ABFF Ventures and now <a href="https://www.nicecrowd.com/">Nice Crowd</a>, specializes in developing and marketing festivals and live experiences highlighting BIPOC culture and achievements. Jeff's vision for Nice Crowd includes creating events that promote black culture and community in various settings, from film festivals to wellness retreats.
A graduate of Howard University with an MBA from NYU's prestigious School of Business, Jeff’s numerous accolades include <a href="https://www.nyu.edu/life/global-inclusion-and-diversity/centers-and-communities/nyu-women-lead/awards.html">NYU’s Global Trailblazer Award for Entrepreneurial Innovation,</a> and being named one of Hollywood's Top 50 Power Brokers by Black Enterprise. He has received keys to Miami, Miami Beach, and Newark, which also proclaimed his birthday “Jeff Friday Day.”
Jeff Friday's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of representation and the impact that one person with keen instincts can have on an entire industry.
<hr>
HOW WE MOVE. Stay tuned to the end of the guest interview when international speaker, writer, and diplomat <a href="https://ambassador.shabazz-official.com/">Ambassador Shabazz</a> (daughter of Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz) spends a few moments unpacking the discussion, and highlighting some of the interesting people, places, and things that have her attention.
<hr>
WATCH on our <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@CornerTableTalk">YOUTUBE</a> channel or <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/46iAO7ScYc2Pz4ibKwpwCP?si=f78c4b4c9d804d48">SPOTIFY</a> and please subscribe to experience the celebration of food, culture, and community.
Instagram: @<a href="https://www.instagram.com/cornertabletalk/?hl=en">Corner Table Talk</a>  and @<a href="https://www.instagram.com/postandbeamhospitality/?hl=en">Post and Beam Hospitality</a>
LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-johnson-hospitality/">Brad Johnson Hospitality</a>
E.Mail:  <a href="mailto:brad@postandbeamhospitality.com">brad@postandbeamhospitality.com</a>
For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: <a href="https://postandbeamhospitality.com/">https://postandbeamhospitality.com/</a>
Theme Music: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/brycevine/?hl=en">Bryce Vine</a>
Produced by: Corner Table Media, a division of Post &amp; Beam Hospitality
Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post &amp; Beam Hospitality LLC

S4:E4 Jeff Friday I Empowering Black Cinema

"Don't worry so much, stay positive, move forward, enjoy life. It's a gift, an astonishing, beautiful, absurd gift. Be kind and be curious. Chandelier, Baby!" 
Billy Dee Williams

These words, spoken by screen legend and multi-talented Billy Dee Williams, offer a simple yet profound mantra for navigating the complexities of daily life embracing the sparkle and light of life.

In his recently released memoir and New York Times bestseller, What Have We Here? Portraits of a Life, Billy Dee offers insights into a life well-lived where life doesn't have to be perfect to be wonderful. Kindness and curiosity are his cornerstones and viewed not just as moral obligations, but as tools for personal growth and happiness. They are the lenses through which we can view the world in all its splendor, and absurdity, and find joy in the most unexpected places. I had the pleasure of taking the journey with Billy Dee as I listened to his reading of the audio version of the book.

Growing up in Harlem in a tight-knit family, directly across from Central Park, his home life was full of cherished memories. On-screen, Billy Dee epitomizes effortless cool. So much so that if you were ever dressed a certain way and thought you were looking good, your friends might say “Oh, you're Billy Dee now.” He makes the ladies swoon and finds the humor in his charm, never taking himself too seriously.

With eight decades of performing on stage and screen, strikingly handsome and debonair, Billy Dee has played iconic roles such as  Louis McKay in Lady Sings the Blues, opposite Diana Ross, and Gayle Sayers in Brian's Song earning him an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Single Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role – 1972. He broadened his international fanbase appearing as Lando Calrissian in the Star Wars franchise.  Billy Dee started acting on Broadway at the age of seven and is recognized for his outstanding performances in Fences and as Martin Luther King in I Have a Dream. As an accomplished painter, his paintings are included in the permanent collection of the Smithsonian National Gallery, Washington DC, the Schomburg Center for Research and Black Culture, New York, the African American Museum, New Orleans, and the Museum of Jazz, Kansas City.

Join us as we discuss his memoir as well as various topics related to Billy Dee’s life and career including ,  the importance of family, the challenges of being a black leading man in the entertainment industry during his rise, the impact of his father's hard work, and character, his passion for painting and the importance of individualism. He shares stories of his friendship with James Baldwin and his perspective on aging, the value of staying positive, and the joy of sharing one's passion with the world. It was an honor to spend some time with this youthfully exuberant legend whose walking cane demonstrates his robust, never-ending quest for exploration.

Chandelier Baby!

Instagram: @Corner Table Talk  and @Post and Beam Hospitality

LinkedIn: Brad Johnson Hospitality

E.Mail:  brad@postandbeamhospitality.com

For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/

Theme Music: Bryce Vine

Produced by: Corner Table Media, a division of Post & Beam Hospitality

Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC

<blockquote>
"Don't worry so much, stay positive, move forward, enjoy life. It's a gift, an astonishing, beautiful, absurd gift. Be kind and be curious. Chandelier, Baby!"  Billy Dee Williams
</blockquote>
These words, spoken by screen legend and multi-talented Billy Dee Williams, offer a simple yet profound mantra for navigating the complexities of daily life embracing the sparkle and light of life.
In his recently released memoir and New York Times bestseller, What Have We Here? Portraits of a Life, Billy Dee offers insights into a life well-lived where life doesn't have to be perfect to be wonderful. Kindness and curiosity are his cornerstones and viewed not just as moral obligations, but as tools for personal growth and happiness. They are the lenses through which we can view the world in all its splendor, and absurdity, and find joy in the most unexpected places. I had the pleasure of taking the journey with Billy Dee as I listened to his reading of the audio version of the book.
Growing up in Harlem in a tight-knit family, directly across from Central Park, his home life was full of cherished memories. On-screen, Billy Dee epitomizes effortless cool. So much so that if you were ever dressed a certain way and thought you were looking good, your friends might say “Oh, you're Billy Dee now.” He makes the ladies swoon and finds the humor in his charm, never taking himself too seriously.
With eight decades of performing on stage and screen, strikingly handsome and debonair, Billy Dee has played iconic roles such as  Louis McKay in Lady Sings the Blues, opposite Diana Ross, and Gayle Sayers in Brian's Song earning him an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Single Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role – 1972. He broadened his international fanbase appearing as Lando Calrissian in the Star Wars franchise.  Billy Dee started acting on Broadway at the age of seven and is recognized for his outstanding performances in Fences and as Martin Luther King in I Have a Dream. As an accomplished painter, his paintings are included in the permanent collection of the Smithsonian National Gallery, Washington DC, the Schomburg Center for Research and Black Culture, New York, the African American Museum, New Orleans, and the Museum of Jazz, Kansas City.
Join us as we discuss his memoir as well as various topics related to Billy Dee’s life and career including ,  the importance of family, the challenges of being a black leading man in the entertainment industry during his rise, the impact of his father's hard work, and character, his passion for painting and the importance of individualism. He shares stories of his friendship with James Baldwin and his perspective on aging, the value of staying positive, and the joy of sharing one's passion with the world. It was an honor to spend some time with this youthfully exuberant legend whose walking cane demonstrates his robust, never-ending quest for exploration.
Chandelier Baby!
<hr>
Instagram: @<a href="https://www.instagram.com/cornertabletalk/?hl=en">Corner Table Talk</a>  and @<a href="https://www.instagram.com/postandbeamhospitality/?hl=en">Post and Beam Hospitality</a>
LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-johnson-hospitality/">Brad Johnson Hospitality</a>
E.Mail:  <a href="mailto:brad@postandbeamhospitality.com">brad@postandbeamhospitality.com</a>
For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: <a href="https://postandbeamhospitality.com/">https://postandbeamhospitality.com/</a>
Theme Music: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/brycevine/?hl=en">Bryce Vine</a>
Produced by: Corner Table Media, a division of Post &amp; Beam Hospitality
Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post &amp; Beam Hospitality LLC

S3:E9 Eriq La Salle I Creating Transformative Moments

Corner Table Talk

In 1 playlist(s)

Corner Table Talk

Social links

Follow podcast

Recent clips