Debra L. Lee

Debra L. Lee, the legendary former Chairman & CEO of BET Networks, provides an unforgettable conversation on leadership, resilience, breaking barriers in business and what it takes to shatter ceilings and thrive in high-stakes boardrooms.

Debra L. Lee is a trailblazing executive who has redefined the landscape of Black media and culture. As the former Chairman & CEO of BET Networks, Lee was the driving force behind some of the most iconic and groundbreaking programming in television history, including The Game, Being Mary Jane, and Black Girls Rock!. Under her leadership, BET became a powerhouse, shaping the global entertainment conversation and amplifying Black voices in ways that had never been done before. With a career spanning over three decades, Lee’s unparalleled influence extends far beyond entertainment, earning her a reputation as one of the most powerful women in business.

A true pioneer, Lee was instrumental in taking BET public, making it the first Black-owned company to be traded on the New York Stock Exchange. Her leadership transformed BET into a global brand, expanding its reach across continents and cementing its place as a cultural cornerstone. Recognized as one of the most influential women in entertainment, Lee’s strategic vision, resilience, and commitment to diversity have made her a respected figure in the corporate world. In addition to her accolades, including as one of Billboard's Power Players, The Hollywood Reporter's 100 Most Powerful Women in Entertainment and the first woman to receive the Recording Academy's Industry Icons Award, Lee has consistently championed women in leadership and worked to dismantle the barriers that have historically kept them out of the boardroom.

In her memoir, I Am Debra Lee, she opens up about her journey from the segregated South to leading a media empire, sharing candid stories of her struggles with motherhood, navigating the complexities of corporate leadership as a Black woman, and her personal triumphs over challenges balancing a personal and professional life. Lee’s story is not just one of power and perseverance; it’s a testament to breaking boundaries, defying expectations, and lifting others up along the way. Whether speaking to global corporate leaders or rising stars in an industry, Lee’s legacy continues to inspire and ignite change, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment and beyond.

Books & Movies

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