A Conversation With host Floyd Marshall Jr.- EPS 99 - Shakesha Williams and Lakeisha Jackson - Creators of ExceptionFest Film Festival

Shakesha Williams and Lakeisha Jackson, renowned content creators, are joining our podcast as our latest guests. The duo has recently launched an exciting new Film Festival called ExceptionFest. As award-winning filmmakers themselves, they know firsthand the challenges of starting a major festival. In our interview, we will discuss their motivations behind creating ExceptionFest and their experiences as founders. From examining the concept to overcoming obstacles, Shakesha and Lakeisha shared their inspiring "take-action" attitude that drove them to make the festival a reality. Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qw7ckUz-fYQ ==== BIOs Lakeisha Jackson Lakeisha Jackson is a screenwriter, director, and producer best known as the writer, and executive producer of the post-apocalyptic series, Shiny New Things. She is the owner of Golden Hour Films, a production company featuring film, television, and digital media based out of Fort Lauderdale and Miami. Their primary focus is on creating enchanting film and television series that are female-led, binge-worthy, and emotionally intelligent. Shakesha Williams Meet Shakesha Williams: an accomplished filmmaker, visionary entrepreneur, and the creative force behind Harlem Fusion Studios. With a penchant for storytelling, Shakesha has garnered recognition as an award-winning screenwriter, adept producer, and engaging podcast host. Distinguished by her captivating narratives, Shakesha wrote and produced the acclaimed short film "My Story," a triumphant recipient of the prestigious Best Screenplay award. The film has found its home on Tubi, captivating audiences with its compelling narrative. Shakesha's artistic prowess extends to the digital realm, where she stands as the mastermind behind the celebrated web series "Curvy Girls Rock." This groundbreaking series has earned high praise from critics and viewers alike, transcending boundaries and redefining standards. Beyond her creative accomplishments, Shakesha is a fervent advocate for the voiceless, using her storytelling abilities to amplify important messages. Her talent has even caught the attention of renowned figures like Chris Tucker and Jay B Smoove, for whom she has penned compelling narratives. Recognized by Ebony Magazine, Shakesha's influence and impact on the industry are undeniable. To further engage with her audience, she hosts the captivating podcast "Shakesha and the White Boy," a weekly dose of insightful conversations available for streaming on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Shakesha serves as a mentor for Women of Color Unite's Start With 8 mentorship program and serves as Co-Founder of Exception Fest, a conference and film festival for creators of color. As co-host of the Shakesha and The White Boy podcast, she won best political podcast. A true embodiment of the vibrant spirit of New York City, Ms. Williams is not only a native New Yorker but also a devoted wife and mother. Her unwavering drive and boundless creativity continue to push boundaries, ensuring that her dynamic journey shows no signs of slowing down. ==== Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ifapfilmcollective.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect With Floyd Marshall Jr: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/floydmarshalljr⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FlodyMarshallJr⁠