Today we’d like to introduce you to Ernest Owens.
Hi Ernest, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I got my start in journalism as a college undergraduate at the University of Pennsylvania in 2010. I explored various forms of media — radio, newspaper, television, blogging, social media, everything — and learned a lot from mentors and internships. What made me stay in Philadelphia was my love of the city and the community I had fostered here.
Today, I’m an award-winning journalist and CEO of Ernest Media Empire, LLC. I’m is the Regional Vice President of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (Mid-Atlantic Chapter) and a proud life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. I’m a CBS News Philadelphia Contributor, executive producer & host of the hit podcast “Ernestly Speaking!” and host of “On the Record with Ernest Owens” on WURD Radio. I’m the author of the book “The Case for Cancel Culture” (St. Martin’s Press), and the upcoming book “Divided We Stan” (Beacon Press) slated for release in 2027. As a prominent Black queer journalist, I’m made headlines for speaking frankly about intersectional issues in society regarding race, LGBTQIA, and pop culture.
I received my B.A. in communication from the University of Pennsylvania, and a Master’s degree in communication management from the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism. I’m currently pursuing a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) at Vanderbilt University’s Peabody College. I’m an adjunct professor at Delaware State University and Community College of Philadelphia. My work has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Rolling Stone, CNN, NBC, Philadelphia magazine, and other prominent media outlets. I’m the President Emeritus for the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists and also a member of the Recording Academy, Society of Professional Journalists, the Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists, and the Online News Association.
I’ve earned countless honors, which includes landing on the 2026 City & State PA 40 Under 40 list, the 2025 Most Influential African Americans list by The Philadelphia Tribune, along with being a two-time Sigma Delta Chi Award winner from the Society of Professional Journalists, and other honors from Forbes, American Society of Magazine Editors, National Association of Black Journalists, National Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists, Pen & Pencil Club, and City & Regional Magazine Association. In 2022, I was nominated for a GLAAD Media Award for his writing at Rolling Stone magazine.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The journey was inspiring, but definitely not easy. I was scammed and exploited very early in my career by a failed online publisher who is no longer alive to tell the tale. I was often discouraged to not be as outspoken and bold about my cultural pride, sexuality, and politics.
As you know, we’re big fans of Ernest Media Empire. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
In 2018, I launched my growing independent media company, Ernest Media Empire, that specializes in multimedia production, consulting, and communications. I work with various news companies, media agencies, and brands to produce reported stories and content that seeks to inform the public at large. My coverage has changed laws, influenced elections/movements, won awards, and have made a tangible impact.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Believing in yourself and whatever you’re trying to pursue comes first — don’t wait for anyone else or another institution to cosign your vision before you do so within.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ernestowens.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrernestowens/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ernestowens/
- Other: https://www.threads.com/@mrernestowens
