Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Annie Bee. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Annie , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

I always knew I was creative, but for a long time, I didn’t think it would be my career. I was a healthcare professional, focused, reliable, and committed to helping people. It was stable, meaningful work, and I took pride in it. But when my mother passed in 2009, something shifted. She was my reason for being in the field, my motivation, and my anchor. Without her, it felt like I was just going through the motions.

Still, I tried to make it work. I kept showing up, being there for my patients and any first responder duties doing my job, but deep down, I knew I wasn’t happy. So, I did what most responsible adults do…I looked for other “stable” jobs. But every time I applied for a traditional 9-to-5, something would go wrong. Either I didn’t get the job, I got the job and hated it, or the job mysteriously vanished before I could even start, I can’t make this stuff up (I’m convinced the universe was laughing at me).

At some point, I had to admit the truth: Maybe I wasn’t supposed to be in a position where I was on one spot or following someone else’s script. Every time I leaned into my creativity, my niche’s as a creative consultant whether through organizing events, or working with artists and entrepreneurs, hosting or performing, things just clicked!
Opportunities found me! I was energized, inspired, and, for once, I felt like I was doing what I was actually meant to do.

The real moment of clarity came when I was helping coordinate a community event. Watching people connect, share their stories, and create something bigger than themselves reminded me why I always loved this work. I realized I didn’t have to choose between purpose and passion, I could merge them.

Now, every project I take on, whether it’s producing shows, supporting clients or venues events, highlighting creatives, or building platforms for entrepreneurs is a reflection of that moment. The 9-to-5 life never worked out for me, and honestly? I’m grateful. Because this path, the creative, unpredictable, passion-fueled one is exactly where I belong. It’s not all glitz and glamour! It’s hard work and determination for sure. I wouldn’t have it any other way. I love where passion meets purpose and I thrive on being there to support and serve other creatives along their path.

Annie , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’ve been called a Powerhouse, Creative Generator and A Creative Force in Media, Storytelling, Events and Community Impact…

I’m a media producer, storyteller, creative director, event specialist and event curator dedicated to bringing people and ideas to life. Connecting people is imperative for growth in our communities and my journey has been fueled by a passion for community, and creatives while creating platforms that highlight entrepreneurs, artists, and visionaries.

From an early age, I was drawn to creative expression as a dancer and musician which later I became drawn to BTS logistics through organizing events, working behind the scenes to bring ideas to life, working stages, or emceeing to connect with people. Over time, I realized my WHY was bigger than just creating; it was about amplifying the voices of others, helping them tell their stories in impactful ways. That passion has led me to develop and produce shows, coordinate large-scale events, and collaborate with brands and organizations that share my vision for meaningful storytelling.

What I Do & What Sets Me Apart:

I specialize in:

Media & Production: As Producer of BODI (Bragging On Dope Individuals), Co-host of The Catch Up Show and Creative Director for The Minority Film Coalition I work to create platforms that showcase entrepreneurs, artists, and creatives. Through engaging interviews, performances, and storytelling, I help people share their journeys and connect with their audiences in meaningful ways.

Event & Brand Coordination: Whether it’s a large-scale event, a fundraiser, or a creative showcase, I handle everything from concept to execution. I bring together the right people, brands, and ideas that aligns to produce impactful, well-executed experiences.

Community & Advocacy : I’m passionate about amplifying underrepresented voices, especially in business, entertainment, and creative industries. Through partnerships, collaborations, and initiatives like the Minority Film Coalition, I work to create opportunities for people and marginalized communities to thrive.

The Problems I Solve:

Many creatives, entrepreneurs, and brands struggle with visibility, storytelling, and making meaningful connections with their audience. That’s where I come in. I help my clients:

Find their voice & tell their story in a way that resonates authentically.

Build connections & expand their reach through media, events, and strategic branding.

Turn their ideas into impactful , meaningful experiences, whether through shows, interviews, campaigns, or live productions.

What I’m Most Proud Of:

One of my biggest accomplishments is creating platforms that celebrate others. Seeing my guests on my B.O.D.I Show on The Catch Up Show and collaborators gain new opportunities, grow their audience, and elevate their brands through my work is what drives me. Whether it’s helping a small business owner get exposure, giving an artist their first big interview or their first check as a creative, or producing an event that brings people together for my clients, I take pride in creating spaces that make a real difference. I also thrive on making sure that my CEO clients get to enjoy their esteemed guests during their VIP events while I do the heavy work.

About my brand, Annie Bee & Cross Pollination Creations:

At the heart of everything I do is a commitment to authenticity, impact, and storytelling. I believe that when people are given the right platform, they can inspire change, open doors, and build something meaningful. Whether through media, events, or creative collaborations, my goal is always to uplift, connect, and amplify.

If you’re looking for someone who can bring your vision to life, create meaningful experiences that resonate, or help you tell your story in a way that truly connects, I’m your girl! let’s make it happen! Let’s connect!

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

There was a time in my life when I felt trapped, physically, emotionally, and mentally. Being in a relationship that stripped away my sense of self was one of the hardest battles I’ve ever faced. As a survivor of domestic violence, I know what it’s like to feel like your voice has been silenced, your light dimmed, and your power taken from you. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that resilience isn’t just about surviving, it’s about reclaiming yourself and living the life you were called to live.

One of the most painful parts of my journey was watching how my situation bled into my professional life. There were times when I had to miss shows I was booked for, cancel client meetings, or turn down opportunities simply because I couldn’t leave home. Not because I didn’t want to, but because it wasn’t safe to or I was too hurt to leave. I would make excuses, try to reschedule, or sometimes disappear from projects altogether, knowing deep down that I wasn’t being unreliable or typically late, I was just trying to survive. I even lost friends to my situation because I didn’t know how to tell them or family what I was experiencing.

Leaving wasn’t easy. In fact, it was terrifying. But I knew I deserved more, peace, joy, and the freedom to exist as my full, authentic self. Even now, as I navigate a difficult divorce, I remind myself that this chapter is not my ending, it’s my rebirth. Every day, I choose to keep going, to build a life that reflects my strength, my creativity, and my passion for uplifting others.

The challenges haven’t stopped, but neither have I. If anything, they’ve fueled my purpose. I use my platform to tell others stories and to create spaces where others can find their voice, their power, and their freedom. My journey is proof that no matter how broken you may feel, you can rebuild and come back even stronger, wiser, and more determined than ever.

So, to anyone who’s ever felt stuck, afraid, or unsure of what’s next, know that there is life beyond the pain. You are not defined by what happened to you; you are defined by how you rise. And trust me, you will rise above your situation when you finally choose YOU.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

“Everyone Can’t Go”

For the longest time, I believed that if I won, we all won. That when I made it, I’d be bringing my whole circle, my whole team, my whole community along with me. Because that’s what loyalty is, right? That’s what success should look like, a celebration where no one gets left behind. But life has a way of teaching you lessons the hard way. (Go figure, lol)

As I started growing both personally and professionally, I realized that not everyone was meant to come with me. And not just because they couldn’t, but because they shouldn’t. Some people, whether intentionally or not, were holding me back. I would pour into them, support their dreams, and root for them even when they weren’t rooting for themselves… but when it was my turn? Doubt. Even sabotage.

There were moments when I felt guilty for outgrowing certain spaces and relationships. Times when I tried to shrink myself just to stay where I was comfortable. That really hurts, I wouldn’t recommend! But comfort doesn’t build empires. Comfort doesn’t push you into your purpose.

The hardest part was realizing that some of the people I thought would celebrate me the loudest were the ones most uncomfortable with my success. And that’s when I had to accept it, everyone can’t go. Not because I don’t love them, but because their journey isn’t aligned with mine. And that’s okay.

Now, I move differently. I surround myself with people who genuinely support me, who push me to be better, and who are willing to grow alongside me. I’ve learned that sometimes, elevation requires separation, and that’s not a loss. It’s a necessary step toward becoming who I’m meant to be.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://minorityfilmcoalition.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealanniebee
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DtuTk9yVq/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/annie-bee-53aa01168