Shaneisha Dodson
Trailblazing Women
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your background?
Shaneisha Dodson: My name is Shaneisha Dodson, and I'm an awardwinning playwright and entrepreneur. I proudly founded Brilliant Girl and Black Girlz Productions, driven by my passion for education and representation. Born in Arkansas and now residing in Burbank, CA, I hold a BA in psychology from Grambling State University, an MA in counseling from Dallas Baptist University, an Ed.S in education from Walden University, and a certificate in women entrepreneurship from Cornell University.
I am the first in my family to attend college and have a deep commitment to education, having awarded six book scholarships to high school seniors. My list of accolades includes the 2023 Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, an Honorary Doctorate in Entrepreneurship and Business Administration, and the 2022 Christian Women In Media Award (London, UK). I received the 2021 Fade to Black Winner, was a 2021 Featured Writer for Madwomen in the Attic, and a 2020 Best Director nominee. I'm a 2019 Artist of the Year, recognized in 2018 as Top 30 under 40 by M-lifestyle magazine, a Top 25 Women In Business by Courageous Magazine, a 2018 Women Doing It Big Honoree, and a Top 35 Women to Watch.
In 2017, I received Best Director and Best Play nominations at the Broadway World awards and won Best Theatrical Presentation at the NYC Success in the Arts. I've made significant contributions to film festivals, with my short films earning Official Selections at the Bronze Lens Film Festival, Lift-Off Global Network, Europe Film Festival, and the Los Angeles Film Festival. Recognition from Senator Comrie of New York further affirmed the impact of my work. In 2012, I founded Black Girlz Productions, LLC, with a mission to bring awareness to social issues through theater. I've written, directed, and independently produced three full-length productions that toured the United States.
My plays have been showcased at prestigious venues, including the Playwrights Playground at the Classical Theatre of Harlem, Inkwell Theatre, Soundscape theater, HBMG Foundation, and Logan Theatre. Notably, my one-act play "Vagina Rights" opened off-Broadway at the Strawberry one-act festival in 2017, winning Best Theatrical Presentation. In 2021, I established Brilliant Girl, introducing the first-ever 18-inch black superhero doll, Sugamama. Our goal is to enhance representation in the toy industry. In 2022, I donated over 90 dolls to children in need, aiming to increase this number in 2023. When not immersed in my creative pursuits, I enjoy dancing and spending quality time with loved ones.
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If you have a business, could you describe it and how you started it?
Shaneisha Dodson: I founded Black Girlz Productions in 2012 because I had a deep desire to see my words come to life on the stage. The opportunity to witness the impact of my plays and bring awareness to social issues through theater was a driving force in establishing the company. In 2021, I launched Brilliant Girl with the goal of introducing more diversity into the doll and toy industry. The creation of the first-ever 18-inch black superhero doll, Sugamama, aimed to provide representation that was lacking in the market.
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What challenges have you faced as a woman in your field, and how have you overcome them?
Shaneisha Dodson: As a woman in my field, one of the most significant challenges I've encountered is raising capital. Overcoming this obstacle required stepping outside my comfort zone and taking initiative. I initiated a Kickstarter campaign to raise funding for my dolls, allowing me to navigate and overcome the financial challenges associated with my business endeavors.
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What accomplishments are you most proud of since being featured in Empowering Boss Life magazine?
Shaneisha Dodson: Since being featured, I am most proud of receiving a Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award for community service and being honored with an Honorary Doctorate. These recognitions validate the impact of my work and commitment to community service, marking significant milestones in my journey.
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How have you continued to empower and mentor other women in your industry?
Shaneisha Dodson: I continue to empower women by providing opportunities for them to work with me and my productions. By hiring women in various roles, I aim to give them a chance to pursue and fulfill their dreams within the industry. It's my way of fostering empowerment and mentorship through tangible opportunities and support.
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Could you share an impactful story or experience that has shaped your journey and outlook on life?
Shaneisha Dodson: An impactful experience that has significantly shaped my life was falling ill in 2019. For an entire weekend, I feared I had cancer, only to discover it was a rare breast tumor that led to consecutive breast surgeries. This health scare served as a powerful reminder to live life to the fullest and cherish each moment.
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How has your life and career evolved since being featured in Empowering Boss Life magazine?
Shaneisha Dodson: Since being featured in Empowering Boss Life magazine, my life and career have evolved in exciting ways. I curated a Love Letters to the Black Man event, shedding light on important social issues affecting our communities. Additionally, I am gearing up to produce my play, "I'll Be Single Before I Settle," at the Miracle Theatre in Inglewood, continuing my commitment to raising awareness through the arts.
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What have you learned about yourself and your leadership style since being featured in Empowering Boss Life magazine?
Shaneisha Dodson: Since being featured in Empowering Boss Life magazine, I've gained insights into my leadership style. I've discovered that I am direct yet fair, emphasizing the importance of delegation in recognizing that one person can't do everything alone. This understanding has strengthened my approach to leadership.
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How have you continued to challenge yourself and grow as a leader?
Shaneisha Dodson: I continue to challenge myself by actively seeking out opportunities for personal and professional growth. Whether it's reading books, participating in accelerator programs, or exploring various avenues for learning, I am dedicated to evolving as a leader.
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What does being an empowering boss mean to you, and how do you strive to embody that in your everyday life and interactions with others?
Shaneisha Dodson: Being an empowering boss to me means lifting others up as I transition to different levels in my business. In my everyday life and interactions, I strive to encourage everyone in my path to reach their full potential.
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How do you prioritize self-care and maintaining a healthy work-life balance? what tips can you offer other busy women?
Shaneisha Dodson: My tip for maintaining a healthy work-life balance is to say no. It's essential not to overextend yourself. Listen to your body and make self-care a priority.
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How do you stay motivated and inspired, even in the face of adversity?
Shaneisha Dodson: I stay motivated and inspired by believing that things will get better. No matter what obstacles come my way, I tell myself to keep pushing forward.
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What new projects or initiatives are you currently working on?
Shaneisha Dodson: I'm currently working on a feature film script and preparing to produce my play "I'll Be Single Before I Settle," which aims to bring awareness to domestic violence.
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What are your future goals and aspirations, both personally and professionally?
Shaneisha Dodson: My personal goal is to consistently push myself to be the best version of me. On the professional side, I aspire to scale my businesses and become an international brand.
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What changes or advancements do you hope to see for women in your industry in the next 5-10 years?
Shaneisha Dodson: In the next 5-10 years, I hope to see more women writers and directors in the industry, contributing diverse perspectives and stories.
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What do you envision for the future of women in your industry, and how do you plan to contribute to that vision?
Shaneisha Dodson: My vision is for more women to direct TV and film in the future, and I plan to contribute by directing my first feature film in the near future.
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What advice would you give to women who are just starting out in your industry?
Shaneisha Dodson: To women just starting out in my industry, I would offer the following advice: First, do thorough research to understand the landscape and opportunities in your field. Second, seek out a mentor who can provide guidance and support based on their experience. Third, commit to studying your craft continuously to stay current and improve your skills. Lastly, embrace confidence in your abilities, knowing that you bring unique perspectives and talents to the table.
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How have you continued to empower and inspire other women in your industry or community?
Shaneisha Dodson: Continuing to empower and inspire women in my industry and community, I consistently provide opportunities for them to participate in my productions. Whether it's offering roles in acting or providing internship opportunities, I believe in giving women a platform to showcase their talents and develop their skills. This inclusive approach is my way of fostering growth and creating a supportive community for women in the industry.
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Lastly, what message would you like to share with the Empowering Boss Life community and its readers?
Shaneisha Dodson: Always believe in yourself. Remember that your journey is unique, and your potential is limitless. Trust in your abilities, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and stay true to your vision. You have the power to create the life and career you desire. Keep pushing forward, and don't underestimate the impact of your journey on others. Your story is worth telling, and your voice is valuable. Keep inspiring and empowering those around you.