Have you ever had to re-establish your power, your voice, your place in a room? It can be challenging, but its not impossible. In this episode, Renata Henderson, co-founder and head roaster of Cxffeeblack, shares what it looks like to reclaim a space—not just for yourself, but for your people. As the first Black female coffee roaster in Memphis and co-architect of the award-winning, culture-shifting brand Cxffeeblack—named World’s Most Notable Roaster 2024, Best in Coffee 2023, and Inno...

The Power of Forgiveness in Owning the Room (with Yana Jenay Conner) In this episode, author, Bible teacher, and podcast host Yana Conner explores the connection between inner healing, forgiveness, and on stage presence. With nearly two decades of full-time ministry experience, Yana’s writing and teaching have equipped thousands to think deeply about faith and culture, helping others engage both heart and mind. In this conversation, we dive into: The freedom forgiveness brings to your v...

In this episode, Phillip Holmes, leadership development coach, consultant, and speaker unpacks what it looks like to lead from your seat, keep your composure, and avoid crashing out when the culture around you gets toxic. With a background that spans writing, college recruitment, and executive leadership, Phillip has helped countless professionals detox their careers and rebuild their confidence. His work centers on helping people discern when to transform the room they’re in and when it’s ti...

In this episode, creative strategist, speaker, and founder of HEART Convos, Kristen “KB” Newton, unpacks what it means to connect deeply, pivot boldly, and rebuild beautifully after loss. From spinning tracks as a DJ for the Indiana Pacers to founding a movement that’s helped thousands master the art of human connection, KB’s journey is a masterclass in reinvention. She’s lived the full creative spectrum as an artist, coach, conference creator, wife, and mom. Through it all, she’s learned tha...

What if the most powerful form of influence isn’t about commanding attention, but rather standing in the gap for others? In this episode, community leader and luxury real estate advisor Alton Cryer shares how owning the room for others can be just as powerful as owning it for yourself. From negotiating deals to mentoring youth, Alton shows that success rooted in service multiplies impact far beyond personal wins. As the Co-Founder of STS Enterprise Corporation and a Top 20% real estate ...

Some things in life become exponentially better when multiple minds refine them. Like a melody finding harmony when new instruments join in. Professional coaching works the same way, what feels good and natural on your own becomes unstoppable when others help shape and strengthen it. That’s what happened for my guest, Kinah Burks. Kinah was already full of energy, personality, and presence onstage. But when she stepped into the Master Connector Bootcamp (a program I designed to help communica...

On this very first episode of Owning The Room, host Erin Cole sits down with Daniel Willis, acclaimed Hollywood director and filmmaker, for a conversation about how presence and influence extend far beyond the spotlight. From shaping narratives to directing some of television’s biggest hits, Daniel shares how the decisions made behind the camera can transform what audiences feel in front of it. This episode is a must-listen for current and aspiring producers, storytellers, filmmakers and anyo...