Actor Philip K. Boyd: Building His Success Step by Step

by Cyrus Webb

When I was headed back to Los Angeles this year I knew I wanted to try and catch up with some of the great individuals I had spoken with on Conversations LIVE the radio show and see if they would join me for a segment of Cyrus Webb Presents on camera. One of the first people I reached out to was actor Philip Boyd, and I was excited when he immediately said yes!

It was our second time meeting in Los Angeles for a chat, and this one was just as engaging as he first.

Ever since he was 5 years old Philip knew he wanted to entertain. Now as an actor,writer and director he is able to do just that, and the world is able to come along for the ride. For 20 years he has been working hard, honing his craft and seeing it all come together over time in the television shows and movies he's been able to be a part of. Recently, though, millions around the world were introduced to his character Oscar on the hit show written, directed and produced by Tyler Perry called THE HAVES AND THE HAVE NOTS.

Though he stays constantly on the go, Boyd says about his career: "I look back on it and say I have been able to live my dream and do things I wanted to do in my life." What a great thing to reflect on! When it comes to acting he says "Being able to create anything in life is what it's all about. Being an actor and being able to be different characters is very fulfilling for me."

At a young age he knew he wanted to "be a lot of different things" in his life. He says that influenced him to "create different personalities and characters", and set the stage for where he is today.

The career as a working actor is not something that Boyd takes lightly. "It creates a level of responsibility that you have to own," he says. "When you're creating characters you want to give the fans what they want." That sense of responsibility is also part of the gratitude that he has. "Anytime I get a phone call that I've booked a job it makes you want to work harder and be better than you were before. I'm still climbing up the ladder. It's about constantly working, constantly creating and trying to be better and make it to the next level."

Being a part of the successful series The Haves and the Have Nots is definitely part of that next level. "Tyler Perry is a very special person," Boyd says. "He is a great storyteller. He has an energy about him that is infectious. The people that are surrounded by him make it their own personal journey to be better. I feel honored and blessed to be a part of this show and to be around the amount of talent that is on it."

For fans of the show part of the fun of Oscar's character was trying to figure out what was his motive towards Candace (played by Tika Sumpter) and the other cast members. Season after season we got to see the character evolve, but this year Oscar met his demise, adding to the drama of what is  a much-watch show on Tuesday nights. "I kinda had an idea of where the character was going throughout the show," Philip told me. The response to his character definitely made him feel good about his run on the popular series.

Outside of The Haves and the Have Nots, Boyd says he just wants to be able to use his life and path as an example for others. "If I can inspire one person in the world to chase their dream, then I feel as though my job is done.." He also adds that when it comes to the future "One of the greatest things about being an actor is that you really don't know what's next. It might change from day to day. It's really exciting,"

At the end of the day he says he just wants to be the best Philip Boyd that he can be, wherever that might take him, and fans of his work are invited to stay along for the ride.

Lots more to come from this talented actor. Tweet along with Philip at @PhilipKBoyd. He can also be found on Instagram at www.instagram.com/philipkboyd.

Actress Renee Lawless: Celebrating a Year of "Haves"

by Cyrus Webb

She may have become known to many through her work on stage, but 2013 solidified actress Renee Lawless as one of the unforgettable stars of the runaway hit by Tyler Perry The Haves and the Have Nots on the Oprah Winfrey Network.

In the first 10 minutes of the first episode we saw her character Katheryn Cryer as the strong matriarch of her family, however, the show has also revealed another side of the woman whose cutting retorts and strength masks a world of hurt and pain. Millions have made the show must-see television and Renee couldn't be happier.

I have had he pleasure over the past 5 years to have her as a guest on Conversations LIVE the radio show, but in April 2018 we met in Los Angeles for the first time for a taping of my web-series Cyrus Webb Presents---and it was like being reunited with an old friend.

"I have been incredibly blessed along this journey," she told me when I asked what it has been like this year to reflect on the success. "Everything that has been afforded me that I never thought possible has been life-changing." Discussing her thoughts of the first episode of The Haves and the Have Nots in 2013, Renee says it occurred to her what was happening. "This is going to be a hit, and I'm a part of it." She went on to tell me that they expected high numbers on the first one and as we have continued to grow that's what has really been more overwhelming. The importance of that moment is not lost. "Not too many people get to be at the start of something great," Renee said to me.

Renee Lawless' place in the spotlight is something that has been in the works for quite some time. "Even as a young child I was singing the loudest in church plays," she told me. "I always dreamed of being a movie star." When she began in theater, it just felt right to her. "This is my home," she said of the experience. "This is where I want to be." She knew in high school that no matter where she went that performing would be a part of her life. "I've been on stage many years, but my ultimate goal was always TV and eventually film." The Haves and the Have Nots has made that dream come true. She said that to not only have achieved her ultimate goal of being a series regular and a star of a series is an experience she is loving.

It was really intriguing to talk with Renee about how she has brought Katheryn to life. "I knew all these layers before you all did," she told me. "With any new television drama everyone is brought in in the middle. It's up to the characters to bring you in. The one thing that I love about Katheryn is that she's a very multi-layered person, it's like peeling back layers of an onion. She's like a hollow oak tree: outside she's a strong pillar of strength but on the inside she's rotting and hollow. What her husband and children and life have given her has made her a very lonely person. It's basically what it means to have and to have not."

Renee then gave an example that I think resonates with everyone. "Even though she's worth 50 million dollars she's a woman who's over a certain age, who doesn't like getting old, who is dealing with cancer and problems with her kids. Not many can relate to being worth 50 million dollars, but 50 million people can relate to what she's going through. She in many ways is one of the most relatable characters because she has all of these layers. She's just like me."

Though things are going well for Renee and she is doing what she loves, it hasn't happened without a real commitment to her craft. "I worked very hard and long and got many more rejections than I've had successes," she told me. "I do this because I love it, not for the award or the paycheck that it affords me." Speaking of the world that actors live in she adds: "Our career is very unsure. If you're just doing it for the fame and glory you're not going to go very far or last." Her next words are great reminders for all of us with a dream. "You have to love what you do in order to truly be successful at it."

May those words resonate with us as we identify our passion in life and vow to pursue it.

Renee's website is www.reneelawless.com and you can follow her online at www.twitter.com/msreneelawless and www.instagram.com/reneelawless.

Actor Gavin Houston: Claiming Persistence Over Resistance

by Cyrus Webb

Through the show The Haves and the Have Nots Tyler Perry has created a cast of characters that know what it's like to be one thing in the public and another in their everyday lives---and we can't seem to get enough of it! Since the show debuted in 2013 Tuesday nights have not been the same, and actor Gavin Houston who is bringing to life Jeffrey Harrington couldn't agree more. From episode one millions have been captivated by the show, and Jeffrey's seemingly perfect house of cards as been shaken. Gavin talked about the show's success, it's cast and the experience in this conversation.

GAVIN HOUSTON ON THE SHOW'S APPEAL:
"There really is something that everyone can relate to. The things that the individual characters are going through are so much like the issues of our fans. I couldn't have imagined all the things we covered...This whole season is so packed with so many story-lines going on that anybody can find something for them. We all have stories to tell. The show really explores who truly has and who truly have not. It's been really interesting to watch it unfold and get more in-depth. It really shows that all that glitters is not gold."

GAVIN ON ACTING:
"In my childhood I created story-lines for my toys. I used to love performing and putting on a show when I was little. I come from a family where my mom and sister used to model, so I kind of fell into it. My first job was on the Cosby Show. Since then I knew this is what I wanted to do. "

GAVIN ON WHAT KEEPS HIM GOING:
"Persistence overcomes resistance. I feel like you have to realize and remember it's a craft. The business side can muddy up the arts side. You have to have a love for it. There's down-times when you're not working and you have to hold on to the belief. I don't hope it works out. It has to work out. You can't leave it. There's no time limit. You have to keep growing."

GAVIN ON BRINGING JEFFREY TO LIFE:
"I think one of the main things I had to do is keep making discoveries about this character. He comes with a lot of pressure, pressure that parents can put on you. So much of who we are can be related back to what we got in our childhood growing up. I try to identify with the soul of the character. Jeffrey has so many different things and layers to play.

"I love this responsibility to bring the character to life.  A lot of it is about promoting acceptance. One of the biggest things is acceptance from your own parents.  Jeffrey shows the extremes that people will go to in order to find love is what makes it a great story. What he's going to do and how it ends is going to blow people away."

GAVIN ON TIKA SUMPTER'S CHARACTER CANDACE:
"First Tika is such a talented actress. Her character Candace sees through people. She's that straight line where all of us are kind of looping around and putting on this little facade of who we want others to think we are. She is the truth and calls people out on what's real. She's blunt. She's honest. She's fearless."

Regardless of what comes next for Jeffrey it's obvious that Gavin Houston is moving full steam ahead in doing what he loves. As he says "Persistence overcome resistance". As long as we push forward success is sure to be ours.

Stay in touch with Gavin Houston at www.twitter.com/gavinhouston.

Fashion Forward in 2019 with Gail Rayford-Ambeau

Well hello everyone.  Welcome to 2019!

Let’s get this party started!  It’s 2019 and everyone has someplace to be.  Let’s do it being fashion forward.
The New Year brings bold fun colors, patterns and prints and texture. Glamour and romance are on the rise for this season.
So let’s start with Colors.
 Cherry red: a “full-bodied” color, ideal to enhance velvet, tulle and satin. Ideal for elegant, retro-feel looks.
 Digital blue: the color of almost all social networks. A color that evokes technology, and the future. If you are into cyber these may be just right for you.
 Fuchsia pink: it’s still one of the favorite hues with designers. Exuberant if worn from head to toe, or as a creative pop of color.
 Lavender: also called “lilac”, it’s a pastel tone that, unlike pink or baby blue can add character to a statement or intricate outfit.
 Orange: Fall’s symbolic hue, it will stand out with its “effervescent” effect. Dare to wear an orange suit to fight the dark dreary days of winter.
 Sapphire yellow: to uplift classic patterns, like florals or checks.

Now this is where I get excited! Patterns and prints I LOVE animal prints! Leopard prints are Haute’ this season.  Whichever animal print you fancy they are in. The season trend is to wear an allover print.  They can be worn in natural tones or vibrant colors. Whatever you pick wear it with confidence.

Checks have made a big comeback this season. You can find them in all multiplicities and styles.
Scarf prints are all the rage this season and can be worn in a multitude of ways. From bandana to artsy or designer logo prints. Adding a scarf print adds a little glamour to any outfit.
We all know a floral dress is perfect for spring and summer. This season florals of all kinds were given an update. Black background florals add a dramatic twist to your winter fashion stock. And all over prints are just on the right side of fabulously chic.

Textures are essential this season.  Feathers in almost any shape and form are hot! Feathers add the right amount of detail and drama to bring a jacket or dress to life! You might even want to consider up-cycling a jacket, dress or pants by adding a feather trim (for my DIY group we’ll discuss that at a later date).
Other textures to consider are silky tops and dress.
Leather of course will always be a permanent fixture in the fashion world.
Velvet adds a pop of surprise and glamour.  It can be used in just about any silhouette. Try out a pair of velvet booties to add a kick to any dress.

Glamour and romance are on the rise for this season.
Ahead scarf can add a touch movie star glamour to your daily look. Long capes worn over billowing gowns or wide leg trousers can add a bit of glamour to any outfit. Use a cape as a way to either camouflage and showcase your body at the same time.  If, you like the look of a cape but don’t think you can handle all of the extra fabric try a cape sleeve instead.  A cape sleeve will allow you to pull off the look without the extra burden of fabric. Add a long glove and there you have it, instant glamour.
If you are the romantic type this seasons long flowing dresses are just for you.  Long and flowing dresses and tops with flowing bell sleeves, lace and a few ruffles are right on point this season for the romantic type.
It is time to break the so called rules. Mix it up and have a little fun in the New Year.  There’s No need to worry about conforming. Define your own individuality.

As always remember the first thing you should to put on everyday day is your confidences because it is the first thing everyone will see. Wear it and wear it well.
Until next time, keep it fabulous.

Gail Rayford-Ambeau

www.facebook.com/gail.ambeau

www.instagram.com/gailambeau 

Conversations' 20 Indie Artists You Should Know

Conversations' Cyrus Webb has interviewed over 300 recording artists over the past year through Conversations LIVE radio show and Conversations Magazine. As the year is coming to an end he is excited to share 20 Indie Artists that he was introduced to through Conversations that he knows audiences will want to pay attention to headed into a new year.

CONVERSATIONS' 20 Indie Artists You Should Know (listed in no particular order)

1. Ali Caldwell
2.  Jason Little
3. Arika Kane
4. Jeremy Parsons
5. Chelsea Crites
6. Jahna Sebastian
7. Sarra
8. Eryn Woods
9. James "Mississippi" Marshall
10. Troy Petty
11. Gracie and Joey
12. Jason Pure
13. DJ Prince Hakim
14. Amber Sauer
15. Kwadi
16. Michelle Brooke
17. Rai
18. Iyse Gibson
19. Michael Egleton
20. Izzy Escobar

Author Lisa W. Beckwith: Choosing to Enjoy L.I.F.E. Fearlessly

by Cyrus Webb

FOOD FOR L.I.F.E. (Lasting Impressions Forever Enjoyed) by author and speaker Lisa W. Beckwith was chosen as one of Conversations' Top Non-Fiction Books of 2018 and for good reason. It takes us into the "courses" of the author's journey and how what she has learned can help the reader to enjoy as they are going through their own daily life.

Talking with the author about the book, however, reveals that she had no plan of being as open when she began writing it. "I wasn't expecting all of the attention that is coming with the book," she admitted, but then added "I now that it is time for me to share my story and hope that it inspires others."

That is the encouraging thing about FOOD FOR L.I.F.E. Yes it shares a part of the author's story, but it is really a reminder for the reader of what they can achieve. "Sitting down and just reflecting is powerful," Lisa says. "I know that being transparent is important for people to feel comfortable. I needed to be as open about who I am and things that I was challenged with as possible. Moving from one stage of life to another can be scary. My transition happened through my children. In those transitional moments you are shifting into a newer person than you once were. You learn the stages as you go along."

Yes difficulties can happen to all of us, but Lisa wants you to know that they don't have to stop you. "Life can get out of whack," she says, but she has learned the importance of "moving forward in spite of the challenges.

"My strength comes from my Creator,"she told me. "Life is a journey. Through it all you have to tap into what will give you the strength to get through it." Part of that for her has been surrounding herself with what she calls "effective, powerful energy". That good association, she says, is key.

"When storms of life come you are able to stand," Lisa says. "The hardest part is letting your children go. We are not alone.We are here to share. When we share then the fear of not being able to move forward vanishes. At the end of the day we all are human and go through things, and we're here to support each other."

The truth is that no matter how much faith you have fear can still come. How has Lisa dealt with it? "Fear will stop you from doing anything," she says. "You have to face that and know that it is real. It's not always a bad thing to have fear. It just means that it's something new that you're tapping into. I had to just trust and have faith in my journey, in my Creator and myself. We have to break through some chains and some barriers. It's okay to be afraid. You can figure it out and be an encourager for somebody else."

Looking at fear that way brought freedom for Lisa. "I felt there was liberty out there for me. I could get ready for what's new and explore. God is unlimited. Why am I limiting myself?" This is true even when it comes to people trying to tell her how she should walk on her path. "I'm respectful of other's opinions, but not depending on other's thoughts and ways. I have to trust my inner ways. If I do make a mistake it's okay. All I can do is learn from it."

At the end of the day Lisa sees FOOD FOR L.I.F.E. as a book less about her world and more about it being a resource for others to see how they can get the most out of life. If it does that, she says, then it was worth the vulnerability of writing it.

Get Lisa's book on Amazon.com. Stay connected with her at www.lisabeckwith.com.

Author Vicky Nelson: Enjoying Life without Limits

by Cyrus Webb

Author Vicky Nelson and I connected thanks to Facebook. She is the author of WOLVES IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING, a book that takes us into the experiences of the main character Michelle and her having to come to grips with deception and the possibility of love after hurt.

"This is a dream come true," Vicky told me about the writing of the book and getting to share it with the world. "I wanted to write a book for some time and didn't have the courage to do it. Now that it's completed I'm so excited."

In an exclusive interview with Vicky on Conversations LIVE radio show I told her that even though the main character is a woman that is dealing with deception and lies the book speaks to men who also find themselves in that situation. "I wrote this book in the mind of single women initially," she told me. "As I was writing it I realized it was something that I wanted men to get into as well to have a takeaway and for them to understand what it does to a woman when you come into a relationship with lives and deception."

When asked when she first knew she had a story she wanted to tell Vicky says that it began just by her living life. "I had female friends and relatives who were talking about being deceived and hearts being broken because of it. I said to myself 'This is a story that everyone needs to hear.' I wanted people to know that just because you go through things (in relationships) there is still love out there."

In WOLVES IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING the main character WAS deceived, but it's obvious there were signs there that could have avoided some of the heartache. I asked Vicky if that is something she wanted readers to think about as well, how we sometimes contribute to our heartache. "She made some bad decisions," she said, speaking about her character Michelle. "As humans we make bad decisions. We know there's something not quite right there, but because we are looking for love we overlook things."

As Michelle has to deal with the fear of getting hurt, Vicky and I discussed how she got over the fear of what people would think about her writing a book. She says "Having someone in your corner...a mentor, is very helpful." She was able to join a writer's group and hear from others about their experiences. She also had someone rooting her own right in her family. "My daughter is such an inspiration to me," she says. "She told me this is a story that people need to hear. Just write it. You never know. Stop limiting yourself. That helped me a whole lot."

Though Vicky wants the reader to be entertained through her book there is a message. "We have a responsibility to the truth," she says. "Acknowledge the truth and know that (if you choose to ignore the warning signs) you're getting into something that is probably not going to work out for your good."

Get WOLVES IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING on Amazon.com. Stay connected with Vicky on Facebook at www.facebook.com/vicky.s.bonner.