
About this episode
This week, Lena sits down with one of culture's most beloved: Taraji P. Henson – the genuis behind classic roles such as Cookie Lyon, Katherine Johnson, or Yvette from Baby Boy. In this episode, Taraji reflects on a career defined by vulnerability, authenticity, and a refusal to let fear lead. Listen as the two of them discuss the lasting legacy of Hustle & Flow, the cultural impact of her roles in Empire and Hidden Figures, and stepping into the shoes of Shug Avery in The Color Purple. Taraji reminds us what it means to lead with grace, not judgment — and through each role, she reminds us of our own strength, our own greatness, and that we, too, can weather anything.
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