Listeners of the Wake Up With Dee Morning Show were treated to an inspiring and empowering conversation when award-winning producer, playwright, educator, and podcast host Fanshen Cox joined Dr. Dee Dawkins-Haigler to discuss her groundbreaking work in Hollywood and the continued success of her acclaimed podcast, Sista Brunch.
A respected leader in entertainment, Fanshen Cox has built a career centered on creating opportunities, amplifying underrepresented voices, and challenging the status quo. As the founder of TruJuLo Productions, she has dedicated her work to stories that "speak truth in pursuit of justice in service of love," a philosophy that has guided her journey from educator to Hollywood executive and creative entrepreneur.
During her appearance on Wake Up With Dee, Cox discussed the power of storytelling and why representation matters. Her passion is reflected in Sista Brunch, a podcast that shines a spotlight on Black women and Black gender-expansive professionals thriving in film, television, media, and the arts. Through candid conversations, the show provides an inside look at how industry leaders broke into competitive fields, overcame obstacles, negotiated opportunities, and built successful careers.
What makes Sista Brunch unique is its commitment to preserving and sharing stories that are too often overlooked. The podcast has grown into a living archive of experiences from creators, executives, directors, journalists, writers, and innovators who are shaping the future of entertainment. Each episode offers listeners valuable lessons on leadership, resilience, creativity, and professional growth.
Cox's influence extends far beyond podcasting. She is widely recognized as a co-author of the Hollywood Inclusion Rider, an industry-changing tool designed to promote equitable hiring practices in film and television productions. Her work has helped spark important conversations about diversity and inclusion throughout the entertainment industry.
For aspiring creatives, entrepreneurs, and media professionals, Sista Brunch is more than a podcast—it is a masterclass in navigating an industry that often feels inaccessible. The show's guests pull back the curtain on their careers, offering practical advice and inspiration for anyone pursuing a dream in media or entertainment.
Fanshen Cox continues to prove that authentic storytelling can change lives, build community, and create pathways for future generations. Her appearance on the Wake Up With Dee Morning Show served as a powerful reminder that when diverse voices are given space to be heard, everyone benefits.
To learn more about Fanshen Cox and her work, visit TruJuLo Productions and follow @trujulomedia on social media. Be sure to subscribe to Sista Brunch and support its mission of highlighting the extraordinary achievements of Black women and Black gender-expansive leaders across media and entertainment.
Fanshen Cox
And for more engaging conversations with influential leaders, innovators, and changemakers, tune in to the Wake Up With Dee Morning Show with Dr. Dee Dawkins-Haigler, airing Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. on News & Talk WAOK and on the AUDACY app.
