EPISODE · Nov 12, 2024 · 2H 11M
Amanza Smith: Hardships, Defying the Odds, and Selling Sunset | E137
from In Search Of Excellence · host Randall Kaplan / Amanza Smith
Amanza Smith is an accomplished entertainer, real estate agent, and advocate who has overcome immense personal challenges. Born to a mixed-race family in small-town Indiana, Amanza faced racism and abuse from a young age. Despite these adversities, she pursued her dreams, becoming a cheerleader, model, and reality TV star. Amanza's big break came on the hit show "Deal or No Deal," which led to her joining the prestigious Oppenheim Group and starring on "Selling Sunset." Beyond her professional success, Amanza's most inspiring role is that of a single mother. After her ex-husband's sudden disappearance, she fought tirelessly to provide for her children, relying on government assistance at times. Today, Amanza uses her platform to advocate for victims of abuse, encouraging others to seek help and support. Her ultimate goal is to inspire change through a design-focused TV show and a line of home goods. Amanza's journey is a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and the pursuit of excellence in the face of adversity.2:18 - Introduction to Amanda Smith's Diverse Career 12:01 - Amanza's Unconventional Family Background18:55 - Experiencing Racism and Physical Abuse as a Child 30:35 - Coping Mechanisms: Gymnastics and Humor36:00 - Transition to Modeling and Acting42:27 - Challenges in Marriage and Financial Struggles 48:15 - Joining the Oppenheimer Group and Selling Sunset54:38 - Ralph Brown's Disappearance and Legal Battles1:00:52 - Advice for Victims of Abuse: Seeking Help and Therapy1:06:35 - Amanza's Goal: Hosting Her Own Design-Focused TV Show1:12:15 - Developing a Line of Home Goods and Furniture Products1:18:35 - Considering Adopting an Older Child in the Future1:24:23 - Amanza's Perspective on Dating in Los Angeles1:30:30 - Dealing with Haters and Social Media Criticism1:36:06 - Amanza's Responsibility as a Successful Black Woman1:42:29 - The Biggest Lesson Amanza Has Learned in Life1:48:13 - Amanza's Number One Personal and Professional Goals1:54:32 - Amanza's Biggest Regret and the Craziest Thing in Her CareerAbout Randall Kaplan: Randall Kaplan is a serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist, executive coach, co-founder of Akamai Technologies, founder and CEO of JUMP Investors, and host of In Search of Excellence. Through his Extreme Preparation™ methodology, he helps founders, executives, business owners, and ambitious professionals improve strategy, communication, decision-making, and execution.Coaching and Staying Connected:1-on-1 Coaching | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | LinkedIn | X
Embed this episode
What this episode covers
Amanza Smith is an accomplished entertainer, real estate agent, and advocate who has overcome immense personal challenges. Born to a mixed-race family in small-town Indiana, Amanza faced racism and abuse from a young age. Despite these adversities, she pursued her dreams, becoming a cheerleader, model, and reality TV star. Amanza's big break came on the hit show "Deal or No Deal," which led to her joining the prestigious Oppenheim Group and starring on "Selling Sunset." Beyond her professiona...
Ready to play
Amanza Smith: Hardships, Defying the Odds, and Selling Sunset | E137
No transcript for this episode yet
Similar Episodes
No similar episodes found.