[To You, From Me] Saying YES to Yourself

 

If 2025 has taught us anything, it is that life is happening to us all. 

That is why it is more important than ever to make sure that we are not leaving ourselves behind as we are trying to take care of others and navigate life's daily challenges. This should be something that comes naturally, however, it's more difficult than we might imagine. 

The world will try to tell us that it's selfish to look after your needs. They will try to guilt you into thinking you should put all others above yourself. I'm here to remind you that's not the truth at all. The truth is that we have to say yes to ourselves FIRST before we can help anyone else. We've heard the saying that you can't pour from an empty cup. That applies to us in all aspects of life, both personally and professionally. 

This issue of Conversations Magazine celebrates those who have said yes to themselves and been able to benefit others along the way. They have realized the importance of taking the time needed to refresh and regroup, coming back stronger so they can be the best of themselves in all they do. 

For the third time I get to honor my longtime friend Omegia Keeys and her great work. We also have individuals like Kate Thurman, Dr. Teresa A. Smith, Dr. Velma Bagby and others who have shown that by empowering themselves and giving themselves the necessary grace, they can achieve amazing things. 

We are also using this issue to officially share my new series CYRUS WEBB REVIEWS. Through it I will be highlighting books, music, movies and other products and services that I'm honored to share with my audience. 

My hope with this issue of EMPOWERMENT ISSUE of Conversations Magazine is that you will be inspired by the profiled, motivated by their achievements and see how you can be empowered to take the steps necessary in your own life. 

It all begins with saying YES to yourself, realizing that your goals and dreams are worth the effort. They are just waiting on YOU.

Happy Reading! 

Cyrus Webb, Editor-In-Chief

Conversations Magazine

OMEGIA KEEYS: Breaking Down Barriers While Building an Entertainment Empire

 

by Cyrus Webb 

Nothing worth having comes without hard work, and Omegia Keeys has shown she is not afraid of the work. 

As a bestselling author, publisher, actress, filmmaker and director, Keeys is constructing a media empire that has crossed platforms like Amazon and Tubi, reaching readers and viewers around the world. 

During the summer of 2025 we caught up to talk about our own full-circle moments, but how projects like DONORS is not just bigger and better---but proof that when you keep going great things can happen. 

Omegia, what a busy 2025 it has been for you! DONORS is out as a series and movie, and you are continuing your telling of true-crime stories. What has it been like for you to stop and take it all in?

Let’s be real… I’m still taking it all in. DONORS is my baby. Every time it hits a new platform, like it did with Tubi, it feels like the journey starts all over again. There’s always a new audience waiting to discover it, and that’s wild to experience. This has been a 10-year journey, and now I’m finally getting to share it with the world.

What’s even crazier? With each release, I’m rising to the number one slot. It’s like running a track race. I’m conditioned, I’ve trained, but once the gun goes off, you still never know how it’ll turn out. I’ve learned to trust the preparation and keep my focus on the finish line, one win at a time.

But to keep me grounded, I’m continuing to create. True crime, vertical series, scripted features and the DONORS Universe, it’s all part of the bigger vision for AboutFace Media and Like a Boss Studios. Every project builds momentum, and while I absolutely celebrate the wins, I don’t unpack and live there. I keep going. I’ll pause later when the empire is self-sustaining. Right now, I’m still laying bricks.

Those who have followed you for some time know that DONORS has been a passion project for some time. How does it feel to let a larger audience get to know about it as a book, series and film?

It’s surreal, honestly. DONORS started as a passion project. It was a wild idea I couldn’t let go of and now it exists across every format: book, series, movie and an after show.

Letting a larger audience into this world has been both validating and energizing. For years, I was getting it in the mud, with no guarantee anyone would care. But I knew I had something special.

Seeing people connect with the characters, quote lines, and ask when the next part is dropping is so crazy to me.  I have even had preteens reach out to me to let me know they love it. They’re in the universe now. And the beauty is, each format offers a different entry point. Some people meet DONORS through the movie, others through the book or the series. However they come in, they’re getting pulled into a world I created from scratch. That’s powerful.

You are one of those creatives that is not afraid to take chances. When did you recognize that desire to create and share?

I’ve always been a creative, but the sharing started in 2006 while I was in the military. Writing books became my escape as a way to process the world around me. Filmmaking came later, kind of took me by surprise. In 2013, my niece encouraged me to submit for the TV show The Originals. Once I stepped on set, I knew Donors, which was already a book, had to become a film too.

It didn’t happen overnight, but that moment lit the fire. Since then, I’ve created so many other projects I’m proud of like Surviving America, Keeping Secrets, and Fractured. Each one started with a risk and a vision I refused to let go. Now I’m expanding into the vertical space with Her Secret Obsession and another thriller, Beyond Suspicion.

Your projects are able to reach audiences on Amazon and platforms like Tubi. What has that been like to have viewers from around the world appreciate your work?

Okay, let’s be really candid for a moment, Donors took off with over 500,000 views in the UK in a single week. I remember seeing the numbers and thinking, There’s no way that’s right. But it was. I had to sit down for a moment because I literally got lightheaded. That’s when I knew I had a winner on my hands. There’s something surreal about people across the world connecting with a project you built from the ground up. It’s humbling, exciting, and motivating all at once.

Social media has continued to be the way the majority of us connect and communicate. How have your company and you been using it to share your work?

I use social media to let people see who I really am from start to finish with each project. Every day isn’t easy. I might not feel like editing or writing, but we do what we have to do to make it happen. I also use groups to promote the films. They’re a great resource if you know how to use them right. But you have be careful. You can easily go down a rabbit hole of negativity. Some of the loudest people in those groups are the ones not really putting in the work. Use the groups as a tool if you’re looking for real advice or support and find the right ones if you’re trying to promote.

I mentioned your true-crime work. The latest documentary is called Unthinkable: The Grim Sleeper. What drew you to telling this story?

I’m a true crime junkie at heart. People who’ve followed me for years know I used to do live trial coverage all the way back during the Trayvon Martin and Michael Brown cases. Honestly, to me, the American story is true crime… people stolen from a land or ripped from their own and forced into bondage. That’s horror. Unthinkable is a spin-off from my short-lived podcast True Crime Remixed, but now I get to tell these stories on my own terms. No podcast deadlines, no rush. Just truth when I’m ready to tell it.

Outside of what you’re doing with AboutFace Media you have teamed up to create Like A Boss Studios with your business partner Kathy Taylor. Talk to us about the collab and what it’s been like to work with like-minded individuals along your path.

Me and Kathy? That’s divine alignment. She’s my bestie and partner. People say don’t mix business and friendship, but we’ve been making it work daily for over a decade. Like A Boss Studios isn’t just a production company. It’s the merger of my company, AboutFace Media, and hers, Tell All Inc. Together, we created something that stands on legacy, creativity, and execution.

I’m the one shaping the story, directing the flow, making the calls under pressure, but Kathy? She keeps everything on track. She’s the one making sure the schedule is tight, people show up, and the energy stays right on set. She doesn’t ask for the spotlight, but she’s essential to the machine running smooth.

Working with like-minded individuals is rare. Most people love the idea of the grind but fold when it gets uncomfortable. Kathy’s different. She shows up, stays ready, and handles business without the extra noise. That’s the kind of energy I keep around me.

You’ve been able to achieve so much, Omegia. What advice do you have for others when it comes to pursuing their goals and dreams?
My advice is what I say all of the time: Stop letting other people who aren’t doing what you are doing stop you. There are so many free tools for you to learn from and even execute. You don’t have to have the latest and greatest. Work with what you have.

What is coming up next that we should be on the lookout for?

Well, there is a lot. We're filming our vertical series Her Secret Obsession, which is a new lane for me. We will continue to film as episodes are released. We will also have another thriller with Beyond Suspicion.

Congratulations again, Omegia, on all of your success. It’s been great watching you rise along the way. How can our readers stay connected with you?

First, I want to thank you as always. We are going on 20 years of interviews together. I am honored to be able to keep coming back. Please follow Omegia Keeys on all socials, Like a Boss Studios, and AF Media 1922.

Omegia Keeys and Kathy Taylor: Changing the World through Entertainment and Collaboration

by Cyrus Webb

10 years ago when Conversations Magazine began its 25 Women Changing the World series, it was with the hope of recognizing those who have made an impact on the world and led by example, showing what is possible. 2024's choices are examples of that, and our cover features---Omegia Keeys and Kathy Taylor---exemplify it.

I've known Omegia for years, and it's been great watching her rise and success. Through her I met Kathy, another powerful force. Individually they have done amazing work. Together they have partnered to create some great projects, some of which are in the works as this issue goes to print. 

In this exclusive conversation we discuss what has been the year 2024, the success of their film FRACTURED and their advice for others when it comes to following your goals and dreams. 

 Thanks to the two of you for the time, and congratulations on the successes you have had already in 2024. Omegia, I want to start off with you. What has it been like for you to look at this year and the wins you have experienced with KEEPING SECRETS and FRACTURED?

Keeping Secrets and Fractured have pushed us to another level. Looking back at it just solidifies me as a director and owner of a production company. The conversations I’m having are different and the people are different. It’s as if I have earned a new level of respect, and I’m taking it all in stride.

Kathy, it’s great to have you join us for the first time. What about for you? What has it been like for you to see the way the current projects have been received?

 It has been truly inspiring to witness the overwhelming support and appreciation for our work. It motivates us to continue pushing boundaries and creating impactful stories that resonate with audiences.

Kathy, for those that are just not discovering you, tell them when your own love of creating began?

My love of creating began at a young age when I would spend hours drawing outfits for my Barbie dolls, designing what her house would look like, and accompanying my Mom at home decor parties for Home Interiors. Her clients loved asking me my opinion on what I thought would look best in their home. I was always fascinated by the process of bringing of creating awesomess, and that passion has only grown stronger over the years.

Omegia, we have talked about your journey from bestselling author to filmmaker. Has creating always been something you wanted to do?
Creating has always been a part of me whether I wanted to or not. I have been this way since I was three years old. Even when I served in the military, I always found myself writing. Putting the writing to film was the next step in the evolution chain. I’m thankful to be able to follow my childhood dreams, even if I had to take the long way to here. 

Omegia, the last time we featured you in Conversations we were talking about your business book. Let’s talk about business. What has it been like for you to balance your love of creating with understanding the importance of the business aspect of it all?
The business side is there from the first strokes of my pen or keyboard. I’m always thinking about writing as a product. I have lots of ideas, but all ideas don’t need to be told. I’m very realistic and constantly looking at the film market. Are people going to want to see what I’m writing? How do we market it? If I can’t answer those questions, then it doesn’t make business sense. The balance comes in the form of not wasting any funding because as indie filmmakers we can’t afford to. 

Kathy, Omegia and you have worked together on different projects, including a podcast. What has it been like to have someone that you can relate to as well as learn from? 

Having a collaborator like Omegia has been a game-changer! I have the best of both worlds. I have a great business partner and a sister/friend to do life with. It's been such a joy to have someone to share ideas with, bounce off creative energy, and learn from each other throughout our projects. We understand each others gifts and talents and are able to let them truly shine. It's truly been a fulfilling and enriching experience. She inspires me to be better. She is awesome.

Omegia, same question for you. What has it been like for you to have someone like Kathy in your corner that you can collaborate with?
For me it is like filling in that last piece of a puzzle. Working with Kathy is the completion. I feel like we enhance each other. I get to take the reins off because I know she will help to fill in the gaps and vice versa.  She elevates me.

FRACTURED is the film that really has people talking right now. Omegia, talk to us about the basis of the film?

The basis of Fractured is how much can a person take on of always being the strong person before they snap. Nobody is perfect. You can’t have trauma without some fallout.

Kathy, seeing the pictures from the premiere of FRACTURED was amazing. What was it like for you to have people respond so well to a project with so many messages?

Seeing the pictures from our Premiere was overwhelming in a good way. Our premieres allow my creativity to shine. I spend time thinking of different ideas to create an experience to remember. My passion for creating is fueled by the joy and fulfillment it brings me, as well as the connection it allows me to make with others. There is nothing quite like the feeling of seeing someone connect with my art on a deep level, and that is what drives me to continue sharing my creations with the world.

Omegia, trauma is a big part of FRACTURED, and it shows up in so many ways. What do you hope viewers realize about the importance of addressing trauma in life?
I hope people will realize it is okay to get the help you need. You aren’t weak if you say, 'You know what? I don’t have it all together.' Set those boundaries and stop trying to carry the world on your shoulders. 

Kathy, do you hope that FRACTURED not only entertains but also opens dialogue about some of the issues that can be taboo?

 I hope that by shedding light on these taboo subjects, the film FRACTURED will challenge societal norms and misconceptions, ultimately leading to greater understanding, empathy, and support for those who are struggling with mental health issues and those who have been victims of sex trafficking. Our wish is not only to entertain but spark conversations and encourage the viewers to educate themselves and take action.

Both of you are able to show through your individual endeavors what is possible. Kathy, what has it been like for you to let others, especially women, see what is possible?

I pray my journey has shown that with determination, hard work, and belief in oneself, anything is possible. I want women to understand that it is ok to not be ok every day so you deserve a self care day. By sharing my story and accomplishments, I hope to inspire others, especially women, to break barriers, defy expectations, and chase their dreams with unwavering passion.

What about for you, Omegia?
I’m humbled every time someone says they have learned from me or I inspired them. It also gives me the energy boost to keep going. If I can give just one person hope, I feel like I completed the mission. 

Omegia, what advice would you have for those with a dream about the importance of not giving up on it?

First, I want to clarify is it just a dream, meaning there’s no plan or action behind it. If there is then keep at it. It’s okay to revise your plan. If it is truly something you want to do, then put in the effort to do it. People always say they don’t have time. No, you just don’t want it bad enough. Your dream path will not look like anyone else’s so don’t compare your start to someone else’s middle. 

Kathy, what about you?
I want to encourage women to believe in themselves, trust their instincts, and never underestimate their own potential. Remember that every great achievement starts with a single step, and with perseverance and dedication, you can overcome any obstacle and achieve your wildest dreams. Let my journey be a reminder that you are capable of greatness, and the world is waiting for you to shine, so don't give up.

Thanks to the two of you for the time. Really glad to have you all headlining this issue. How can our audience stay connected with you? 

Omegia: Thank you so much for having us. Once again it is an honor. Follow me on @memekeeys on all the socials as well as @likeabossstudios and @afmedia1922. 

Kathy:You can connect on all social media at tellallinc or www.tellallinc.com

[MOVIE REVIEW] FRACTURED breaks through with a searing message of picking up the pieces after trauma

 by Cyrus Webb

For those looking for a film that will take you up and out of yourself, giving you important messages while also entertaining you, then FRACTURED is a must-watch.

We're introduced to Ava, a woman who is subjected to some traumatic events in her life that could have destroyed her. When we fast-forward in the film we see her seemingly whole, navigating a marriage, family and a successful profession. But nothing is ever as it seems, right? As the story unfolds we get revealing flashbacks to the trauma Ava has been impacted by and when her sister appears and starts causing chaos, every Ava has worked so hard to build seems to start crashing down.

FRACTURED has so many interesting points that will have you talking: 1) How the events of our lives can impact the person we become and our dealings with others, 2) The role that secrets can play in destroying a family and 3) The danger of perfectionism and how it can destroy you from the inside out to name just a few. 

If you're like me you'll have to watch it more than once to catch some of the things that slipped by you the first time. It's that kind of film that draws you in with the story and leaves you with a lot to talk about. 

Ready for a rollercoaster of a ride? FRACTURED breaks through with a searing message of picking up the pieces after trauma.

FRACTURED is available to rent and buy on Amazon. 

OMEGIA KEEYS: Mastering Business (and Life) Daily!

by Cyrus Webb

Daughter.

Mother.

Wife.

Author.

Producer.

Actor.

Director. 

These are just a few titles that can be used to describe the dynamic force that is Omegia Keeys*. For the sake of 2023 it can all be wrapped into one word: BOSS.

For years she has blazed her own trail, did things her own way---and set a standard and example of what it means to truly purpose your goals and dreams. When it was decided that Keeys would grace the cover of Conversations Magazine at the beginning of 2022 she was at the time sharing her latest book MASTER YOUR DIGITAL BUSINESS LIKE A BOSS. Now as we are halfway through 2023 she has also released two additional books and movies: FATED REUNION and KEEPING SECRETS. 

In this conversation we discuss the journey and advice for those who want to make the most of the moment. 

Omegia, I am glad I get to reconnect you with the Conversations readers. First of all congratulations on the past decade of work as an author, actress, filmmaker and entrepreneur. Have you had the time to stop and think about all you’ve been able to accomplish?

Moving into this next leg of my journey has forced me to stop and reflect on how far I’ve come. I actually had to sit down and write everything out and wow, what a journey. What is crazy is there are seeds that were planted years ago, that are just now taking root. I’m really just trying to wrap my head around it all.

Where did the love of storytelling come from for you? 

My love of storytelling came from my family. I am the youngest of seven, and we always had cousins or aunts in our home. I used to sit under the dining room table and absorb everything. The adventures with my action figures would be about them. And, my mother is an amazing storyteller. She would tell us black history but the way she did it, it seems as if it were written in a book and I couldn’t wait until the next installment. 

Over the past few years you have gotten a lot of attention for your films dealing with the social issues we see all around us. Talk to our readers about why projects like FROM JIM TO JAMES CROW and SURVIVING AMERICA have been so important for you to share? 

Both projects are very important to me because they are my creative love letter back to the community. I learned from, From Jim to James Crow and feel I made an even bigger step with Surviving America. A lot of times when I watch documentaries about social justice they make it seem so long ago and negate that we are still fighting the fight today. Also, it ignores the fact that not only were a lot of those who fought for justice in the 60s still alive today, but so are those who opposed the change. I have always been outspoken and this was my way of speaking out. I wanted to use our voices, and not the voices of those who are disconnected from the experience. 

Partnerships have been important for any of us trying to achieve great things. How has surrounding yourself with the right people benefited you over the years?

To be honest it took a while to find the right people. For years I had to go at it alone because people just didn’t get the creative side of me. Often times when you include people on your vision, your vision starts to get twisted into what they want your vision to be. Thankfully, I finally found the right people. My business partner Kathy Taylor is instrumental in not only seeing my vision, but pushing me even further. When people get you, it only makes you want to do even more. It is as if you were holding back until the right people come along, you know they have your back, and then comes the great flood of ideas. 

You began 2022 with a new book MASTER YOUR DIGITAL BUSINESS LIKE A BOSS as well as a new podcast. Where did the idea for business coaching come from?

The idea came from me always helping others along my journey. My inbox is always full of questions from those who need help. I am big on reaching back and lifting others who want to help themselves up and so is Kathy. The best way to do so now is in the form of the book, podcast, and the actual 10 lesson course, Master Your Digital Business Like a Boss. We show them our process and share my experiences to cut years off of their journey. 

In the book you share a bit of your own journey. People see where you are, Omegia, and want to get there now. Do you think most realize the amount of work it takes to achieve the success that you have today?

I honestly don’t think they understand all of the hard work it takes to get here. People don’t see the daily grind, and when you don’t see something it can’t be real. I will take Surviving America for example. I knew everything that needed to happen and it took a full year after the film was released of staying on the marketing. I had a plan prior to the release and the plan was flawed due to changes with the algorithms on social media. I had to figure it out and make a big pivot. For some that would have stopped them. I took it as a challenge. I researched more and figured it out until something stuck. 

 People see my updates about the numbers, but they don’t know what it takes behind the scenes. I used to run track so I considering it the conditioning phase in preparation for the big meet. 

Time is our most precious commodity for sure. We are all trying to make the most of every day. I have to ask, though, how do you carve out time for yourself so you’re not left behind?

Funny, I am in every creative thing I do. Even when I try to take a break, my mind is swirling with ideas. But, to combat the need for myself I plan things out. I get with my business partner and we hash out everything that needs to be done from now until 6, 12, and even 24 months down the road. We set deadlines and in staying organized you free up time for yourself. I’m never scrambling and feeling as if I’m behind. I can take those breaks when I need to.

Social media has helped the two of us stay connected and allowed you to reach a new audience. Especially during the pandemic how has your approach to social media changed or evolved?

Wow, the pandemic pushed me to be more open and share myself with my audience. I always shared the business, but I started to let them really see me and see that every day isn’t a great day but I’m still at it. I think going live and sharing more videos has been the biggest change. 

What is your hope that the book, podcast and training accomplish when it comes to those looking to start or grow their businesses?

My hope is that it encourages someone who was afraid to start and that once they start they see that they are not alone. Plus, by taking the advise they can avoid some of missteps me and Kathy made on our journeys. With the podcast they can see how Kathy and I work together. We don’t always agree but we do respect each other’s viewpoints. Having a yes person in your corner will not help your business.

I can’t have you here and not have you share some tips for our readers. What would you say to those who want to make this their year?

If you want to make it my biggest thing is to start! There are people out there who can’t hold a penny to your talent but you are too scared to make the leap. Stop being afraid. Stop allowing others to define who you are destined to be. Stop comparing yourself to someone else’s journey. Just start and if you need help get a copy of Master Your Digital Business Like a Boss, take the course, or listen to the podcast The Business LAB Unfiltered. 

Thanks again for all you do, Omegia. Again, so proud of you and all your accomplishments. How can we stay connected with you? 

Thank you so much Cyrus. I am thankful to have shared 90% of my entrepreneur journey with you over the years. Please stay connected with me at AboutFace Media on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/aboutfacemediaafm  as well as Omegia Keeys on social media. 

*    Photos of Omegia Keeys by Mari'on Keeys 

Conversations' Honoree Omegia Keeys: Following the Lead of Her Gifts

by Cyrus Webb

I've gotten to know bestselling author/writer/actor/producer (and one of Conversations' 25 Women Changing the World in 2016) Omegia Keeys over the past 5 years, and one thing is for certain: she is someone who plays by her own rules.

Before 2015 it had been 4 years since the two of us had seen each other in person, but while I was in Atlanta filming episodes for my web-series Cyrus Webb Presents we had a chance to talk about the amazing journey she has been on since the last time we met. That includes everything from acting in television shows and movies to producing her own web-series called DONORS.

The first question that came to mind when we began the conversation this year was about where the courage comes from to do all that she does. "From my mom and my Great Auntie," she answered quickly. They taught her to "do it, because they couldn't. They instilled in me to don't let anyone tell me no." Omegia then adds "I've been that way ever since I was young."

For her company AboutFace Media one of the highlights this year has been the web-series DONORS, something that Omegia says was not planned. "The web-series was never supposed to be," she told me. "I was going to jump straight up into the feature." Having her credentials as a filmmaker questions, however, led her to take out her frustration in words. "I wrote the first episode overnight because someone ticked me off," she explained. "My writing ability when I'm mad or upset comes out so crystal clear. I got to do this wonderful backstory" that serve as preparation for the feature.

No matter whether she is writing a novel or a screenplay, Omegia Keeys says that the written word is her "gift." "And who am I not to follow this gift," she asks.

Omegia is currently filming her first feature film called Domestic Seduction. Stay connected with all things dealing with AboutFace Media at www.aboutfacemediaafm.com.

*     Top photo courtesy of Shadow Play Entertainment. Second photo courtesy of Dream Photography