Have you ever held on to a dream even when the odds felt stacked against you? Well, my guest

today did just that. Her story proving whatever you dream is possible. Cheryl Lee Ralph has spent

decades lighting up stages and screens,

from her iconic roles in Dream Girls on Broadway and Moisha on our screens, to her show-stealing

performance as Barbara Howard on Abbott Elementary, which earned her an Emmy. She is a true

cultural force. But for years, even with her talent and influence,

Cheryl didn't quite get the recognition she deserved and was even told there wasn't room for her

in the industry. Yet through it all, she never stopped advocating. She made it her mission to give a

voice to the unheard. It wasn't until Abbott Elementary

that she fully stepped into legend status, proving that sometimes dreams take decades, but they're

worth the way. Her story is one of grit, courage, and determination, all on her own terms.

In our conversation, Cheryl opens up about the lessons she's learned in her career,

how she's found the courage to keep going,

and why she believes now is her time to shine.

Cheryl Lee Ralph is nothing short of inspiring,

and I cannot wait for you to hear this conversation.

I'm Hoda Kotby.

Welcome to my podcast, Making Space.

First of all, I'm so happy to be with you. Thank you. Back at you.

You know when they say when someone enters a room, like their energy precedes them, like who they are, you do that.

You walk in a room.

So how are you feeling, just on this random day, just tell me how you are today.

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