HOST

CHEF CYNTHIA CHEA PEAN

BIOGRAPHY

A first-generation American of African and Caribbean descent, Chef Cynthia Chea Pean focuses on nutrient-dense, disease-fighting cuisine featuring ingredients, techniques and flavors of the African diaspora. As an avid traveler throughout Africa, the Caribbean and the United States, she takes every opportunity to expose herself to native foods and local traditions, adapting her recipes to honor the history and communities behind them.

Her innovative and unique globally inspired cuisine is beloved by A-list Hollywood celebrities, Tastemakers, and political icons.

GUEST

STEVIE BAGGS JR.

BIOGRAPHY

The Athlete. Many know Stevie Baggs Jr. for his athletic career as a three-time All-American linebacker, playing in both the NFL and CFL, for teams including the Baltimore Ravens, Arizona Cardinals, Saskatchewan Roughriders, and Hamilton Tiger-Cats. During his college football career, Stevie Baggs Jr. earned his nickname, “Shakespeare”, by making plays on and off the field. He graduated in 2005 with a degree in International Business from Bethune Cookman University.The Inspirational Speaker. Drawing from his experience in professional sports, Stevie Baggs Jr. has dedicated time in his career to empowering youth and adults as an international inspirational speaker. His driven attitude and gracious service to the community has gained him the support and partnership of many renowned charitable, educational, health and sports organizations. Named Health and Wellness Ambassador for the City of Atlanta by Mayor Kasim Reed, Stevie continues to be a strong voice for the promotion of a healthy lifestyle.The Actor. Stevie can be spotted on the big screen having worked alongside Will Smith in the movie “Focus.” In 2016 he was the Star of WE tv’s “A Match Made in Heaven”. He has had guest star roles on the hit show “Star” on FOX, “Coins for Christmas” on TVOne, season 3 of “Cobra Kai” for Netflix and “The Underground Railroad” for Amazon. He is currently playing the role of Oliver on Tyler Perry’s “Ruthless” on BET. In addition to his acting endeavors, Stevie Baggs Jr. has made TV appearances on The Steve Harvey show, Wendy Williams and The View.

The Philanthropist. As an advocate for change, Stevie Baggs Jr. works in communities to enhance the minds of youth to fuel the future through his CETA (Creating Empowerment Through Autonomy) foundation. The CETA Foundation, currently celebrating 17 years of service, envisions a world where all individuals have the health and wellness tools, resources, and support to maximize their quality of life. The Author. Recognized as the only athlete to play for eleven professional teams in ten years, “Shakespeare” continues to inspire and make plays off the field. In his bestselling book, “Greater than the Game,” Baggs shares how his experiences on the field prepared him for purpose beyond the stadium and guides readers to self-discovery by challenging them to examine how they can elevate their personal “game.” As a man of many hats, Stevie continues to execute his destiny with an unwavering heart of leadership and service. With all that he does, he knows “I’m not flawless, but I am faithful.” Stevie’s latest book entitled “WOKE” is a dictionary for the conscious mind. This is a thought leaders dream book.

RECIPE

CARIBBEAN BLACK BEANS

1 – 13.5 oz cans of black beans (make sure the can is BPA free)
1 – 13.5 oz can coconut milk /reduced fat is fine
1/4 cup chopped bell peppers – not green
1/4 cup chopped onion
3 cloves garlic minced
Sprig of thyme
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
Salt to taste