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I Am Debra Lee: A Memoir
A riveting memoir by the former CEO of Black Entertainment Television (BET), about the glamorous and ugly moments of being a high-powered Black woman executive in the entertainment industry.
Debra Lee has been the visionary responsible for elevating Black images and storytelling for decades with timeless television shows like The Game and Being Mary Jane. Now she’s telling her own story, in a page-turner, filled with electrifying behind-the-scenes stories that reveal how she went from a girl raised in the segregated South to leading the first Black company traded on the New York Stock Exchange and how she juggled social responsibility while managing a company targeted toward the Black community.
Lee answers all of our questions about building an unapologetically Black enterprise as a Black woman. What to do when you’re forced to attend a board meeting eight weeks after a C-section. How to manage a team of men when you’re the first female CEO at the company. How she learned the hard way to say no to those in power when their vision didn’t align with her purpose.
I Am Debra Lee tackles lessons that women CEOs rarely dare to. She addresses her personal struggles with motherhood and “having it all,” navigating reproductive choice, fertility, and #MeToo as she helped build the leading entertainment company for Black audiences globally. As she has done her whole career, in this book, she opens the door for others to come after her, by sharing the truth behind her own inspiring story of power, perseverance, and success.
“Debra Lee is a force! I love her candor and vulnerability within these pages. I Am Debra Lee is designed to make an impact.”
–Alicia Keys
“I was glued to Debra’s every word in this memoir.”
–Taraji P. Henson
Debra Lee has been the visionary responsible for elevating Black images and storytelling for decades with timeless television shows like The Game and Being Mary Jane. Now she’s telling her own story, in a page-turner, filled with electrifying behind-the-scenes stories that reveal how she went from a girl raised in the segregated South to leading the first Black company traded on the New York Stock Exchange and how she juggled social responsibility while managing a company targeted toward the Black community.
Lee answers all of our questions about building an unapologetically Black enterprise as a Black woman. What to do when you’re forced to attend a board meeting eight weeks after a C-section. How to manage a team of men when you’re the first female CEO at the company. How she learned the hard way to say no to those in power when their vision didn’t align with her purpose.
I Am Debra Lee tackles lessons that women CEOs rarely dare to. She addresses her personal struggles with motherhood and “having it all,” navigating reproductive choice, fertility, and #MeToo as she helped build the leading entertainment company for Black audiences globally. As she has done her whole career, in this book, she opens the door for others to come after her, by sharing the truth behind her own inspiring story of power, perseverance, and success.
“Debra Lee is a force! I love her candor and vulnerability within these pages. I Am Debra Lee is designed to make an impact.”
–Alicia Keys
“I was glued to Debra’s every word in this memoir.”
–Taraji P. Henson
257 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 7, 2023
62 people are currently reading
834 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
May 12, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5️⃣—> I rate this 3 out of 5 stars.
I honestly am not sure how to feel about Debra’s book. The title says it’s a memoir when really it was all about her time at BET. Sure, she made mention in the beginning of her journey to and through law school, and brief insights into her family, but not enough to make me believe this was a true memoir. She also left a lot of things unfinished or untold.
When she eventually became CEO and was no longer involved with Bob Johnson and their affair, she never said how or even if it technically ended; the reader had to simply assume that now that he was no longer her boss, and things just abruptly stopped. Also, in the final 3 pages she mentioned that her only son passed away, but didn’t say when or how. The mention seemed random and abrupt, and it was an awkward way to wrap up a book. It literally went from her discussing her last BET awards and her retirement to, “I thought about that conversation a lot when Quinn died,” whoa, whoa, whoa…. Say what??? It just seemed like an odd way to honor and pay tribute to her son.
I also didn’t think she showed remorse for cheating on her husband or for having an affair with Bob Johnson who was also a married man. Yes, she mentioned how terrible and toxic the relationship was then self-identified as part of the “Me Too” movement, while simultaneously saying “I was never forced, I could’ve walked away, etc etc” I felt that she was blaming Bob for her own actions and her own part in the affair. Yes, Bob was wrong as well, but I didn’t feel she took accountability for much. It was always about what he did, and never what she did.
She also discussed how she wanted to focus more on her annual conference once she retired as CEO which had gained much success and started during her time at BET. BUT, she never went into detail of what that looked like or how life was once she retired. Did she do philanthropy work, did she remarry…. I guess we’ll never know. So, again I felt like this was a book about BET and not a true memoir.
Overall, I respect her role and journey as it is nothing to minimize. I however didn’t care for how her story was told, nor cared for her way of thinking or doing things. Although I did love her story of how Oprah tried to play her for a fool and Oprah failed ha ha
I honestly am not sure how to feel about Debra’s book. The title says it’s a memoir when really it was all about her time at BET. Sure, she made mention in the beginning of her journey to and through law school, and brief insights into her family, but not enough to make me believe this was a true memoir. She also left a lot of things unfinished or untold.
When she eventually became CEO and was no longer involved with Bob Johnson and their affair, she never said how or even if it technically ended; the reader had to simply assume that now that he was no longer her boss, and things just abruptly stopped. Also, in the final 3 pages she mentioned that her only son passed away, but didn’t say when or how. The mention seemed random and abrupt, and it was an awkward way to wrap up a book. It literally went from her discussing her last BET awards and her retirement to, “I thought about that conversation a lot when Quinn died,” whoa, whoa, whoa…. Say what??? It just seemed like an odd way to honor and pay tribute to her son.
I also didn’t think she showed remorse for cheating on her husband or for having an affair with Bob Johnson who was also a married man. Yes, she mentioned how terrible and toxic the relationship was then self-identified as part of the “Me Too” movement, while simultaneously saying “I was never forced, I could’ve walked away, etc etc” I felt that she was blaming Bob for her own actions and her own part in the affair. Yes, Bob was wrong as well, but I didn’t feel she took accountability for much. It was always about what he did, and never what she did.
She also discussed how she wanted to focus more on her annual conference once she retired as CEO which had gained much success and started during her time at BET. BUT, she never went into detail of what that looked like or how life was once she retired. Did she do philanthropy work, did she remarry…. I guess we’ll never know. So, again I felt like this was a book about BET and not a true memoir.
Overall, I respect her role and journey as it is nothing to minimize. I however didn’t care for how her story was told, nor cared for her way of thinking or doing things. Although I did love her story of how Oprah tried to play her for a fool and Oprah failed ha ha
January 6, 2024
It was a good read, but after reading Sheila Johnson's book prior...Debra definitely skipped over the magnitude of her romantic relationship with Bob Johnson.
March 19, 2023
Though written quite sporadically in my opinion,I got some great behind the scenes answers to my nosey questions. She jumped timelines incessantly, and she also threw in some self help points from time to time that honestly threw me off. I read memoirs for the untold stories not a 'how to' on how to be them.
Debra Lee the former CEO of BET gave a little insight into her personal life but this memoir was definitely based around her career specifically at BET . How much she didn't want to be a lawyer and how her dad had so much influence in her career path decisions. The quick story about her and her friends trying to keep her school from integrating was interesting and definitely made me understand why she made the decision to back an unknown company in the name of 'culture'.
My first unanswered question was " Was Debra Lee behind the cancellation of Uncut?"
Yes, she was and for good reason. After being appointed CEO it was the first thing on her to do list because her vision for BET had always been to uplift women , and anyone who knows what uncut was should know that was the complete opposite with hits like " I ain't got no panties on".
The next question was actually answered in one of her interviews before I even read the book, she confirmed she in fact did have an affair with Bob. I mean I felt like we all knew it but I'm glad she was ready to speak her own truth. What I didn't expect was the encounters of power abuse she endured, it was to say the least an eye opener to how women, specifically black women are perceived in the corporate world. From stories of mandatory business travel fresh off the operating table to having her livelihood dangled in front her in the name of 'I'm your superior' , Ms lee showed perseverance and dedication even when the disrespect for being a woman in a corporate shit hole overstimulated her. I commend her.
Debra Lee the former CEO of BET gave a little insight into her personal life but this memoir was definitely based around her career specifically at BET . How much she didn't want to be a lawyer and how her dad had so much influence in her career path decisions. The quick story about her and her friends trying to keep her school from integrating was interesting and definitely made me understand why she made the decision to back an unknown company in the name of 'culture'.
My first unanswered question was " Was Debra Lee behind the cancellation of Uncut?"
Yes, she was and for good reason. After being appointed CEO it was the first thing on her to do list because her vision for BET had always been to uplift women , and anyone who knows what uncut was should know that was the complete opposite with hits like " I ain't got no panties on".
The next question was actually answered in one of her interviews before I even read the book, she confirmed she in fact did have an affair with Bob. I mean I felt like we all knew it but I'm glad she was ready to speak her own truth. What I didn't expect was the encounters of power abuse she endured, it was to say the least an eye opener to how women, specifically black women are perceived in the corporate world. From stories of mandatory business travel fresh off the operating table to having her livelihood dangled in front her in the name of 'I'm your superior' , Ms lee showed perseverance and dedication even when the disrespect for being a woman in a corporate shit hole overstimulated her. I commend her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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March 6, 2023This memoir was absolutely captivating. I wasn’t familiar with Debra Lee but found her story if rising to COO and CEO leadership at BET so important. She addresses workplace politics, being a woman in executive rooms, balancing motherhood and an ambitious career and more in this book.
I learned so much from her story. She truly was a pioneer in the entertainment industry facing sexism, racism and manipulation/abuse.
Hers is an important story and I’m glad that I listened.
I learned so much from her story. She truly was a pioneer in the entertainment industry facing sexism, racism and manipulation/abuse.
Hers is an important story and I’m glad that I listened.
May 5, 2023
Interesting especially if you like pop culture references and the back story behind a woman’s success in a company from the ground up.
March 18, 2023
Powerful, Authentic, Honest, Practical
I enjoyed reading this book. Many powerful nuggets but just a few things that stand out for me.
- Most women who get to the top are mentored by men. It’s important to take time to understand your own leadership style. Debra was more intentional towards her latter years to recognize her strength as a woman and lead like one and not the men that had mentored her.
- Her journey to the top while fulfilling was also messy, Debra Lee did not portray herself as squeaky clean but also took time to share fears, mistakes she made along the way. She was vulnerable in this memoir. She shared her wins, her fails and her insecurities.
- I loved that she gave us a wholistic picture of her leadership journey. She appears unsure about her leadership style, personality and also feels constrained by her quiet and reserved nature in the beginning. Struggling to find her voice and confidence. She doesn’t tell you how to find your own voice but how she shares her journey inevitably gives you tools on how you can find your own voice too.
- As she matured she learnt to lean into her personality as her superpower. She learnt she did not need to become an extrovert to win, she could provide vision, clarity and direction even as an introvert.
- While she does not outright tell you what to do and not do, because of how the book is written you are indirectly coached about the importance of setting a vision for your personal and business life, setting boundaries with colleagues and clarifying your values etc. As you do so you can then trust yourself more.
- Lastly, corporate is messy. It’s literally a jungle. It’s a fight and an half…. You have to be passionate about what you do to overcome. Especially for women.
Worth a read, I would recommend this book for every women building a corporate career.
I enjoyed reading this book. Many powerful nuggets but just a few things that stand out for me.
- Most women who get to the top are mentored by men. It’s important to take time to understand your own leadership style. Debra was more intentional towards her latter years to recognize her strength as a woman and lead like one and not the men that had mentored her.
- Her journey to the top while fulfilling was also messy, Debra Lee did not portray herself as squeaky clean but also took time to share fears, mistakes she made along the way. She was vulnerable in this memoir. She shared her wins, her fails and her insecurities.
- I loved that she gave us a wholistic picture of her leadership journey. She appears unsure about her leadership style, personality and also feels constrained by her quiet and reserved nature in the beginning. Struggling to find her voice and confidence. She doesn’t tell you how to find your own voice but how she shares her journey inevitably gives you tools on how you can find your own voice too.
- As she matured she learnt to lean into her personality as her superpower. She learnt she did not need to become an extrovert to win, she could provide vision, clarity and direction even as an introvert.
- While she does not outright tell you what to do and not do, because of how the book is written you are indirectly coached about the importance of setting a vision for your personal and business life, setting boundaries with colleagues and clarifying your values etc. As you do so you can then trust yourself more.
- Lastly, corporate is messy. It’s literally a jungle. It’s a fight and an half…. You have to be passionate about what you do to overcome. Especially for women.
Worth a read, I would recommend this book for every women building a corporate career.
November 22, 2023
I read this after reading Sheila Johnson's memoir which dropped the bomb that Debra had been sleeping with her husband. I knew I had to read Debra Lee's book after reading Sheila's (I like mess what can I say). What I found exceeded expectations because I didn't know much about Debra Lee as a person beyond her running BET. This is a really good business book with great lessons about being a woman in business and navigating missteps, moral challenges, and claiming your space in a male-dominated business world.
I'm still side eyeing her because she never acknowledges how her affair with Bob hurt her husband and Sheila. I felt she hid behind the fact that they didn't start sleeping together until 6 months after her being made COO. I do think her story is complicated though by the power dynamics she had to navigate with Bob Johnson. One things for sure having read both books - Bob Johnson is a domestic terrorist. He truly is a sociopath, manipulator, and liar. That man deserves no peace after how he treated these women. In my opinion Sheila ended out with the better deal because she got PAID in the divorce.
But back to Debra - this an enjoyable audiobook experience once you get over the fact that she reads it like it's coming from a teleprompter. It was so great to get the behind the scenes of BET and the business deals and hard choices that were being made. The one shortcoming of the book is the chronology gets confusing in places. Even with that I would recommend it. Debra ends the book saying "Success and self-doubt are not mutually exclusive" and those are the words I needed to hear as a woman entrepreneur in a new field.
I'm still side eyeing her because she never acknowledges how her affair with Bob hurt her husband and Sheila. I felt she hid behind the fact that they didn't start sleeping together until 6 months after her being made COO. I do think her story is complicated though by the power dynamics she had to navigate with Bob Johnson. One things for sure having read both books - Bob Johnson is a domestic terrorist. He truly is a sociopath, manipulator, and liar. That man deserves no peace after how he treated these women. In my opinion Sheila ended out with the better deal because she got PAID in the divorce.
But back to Debra - this an enjoyable audiobook experience once you get over the fact that she reads it like it's coming from a teleprompter. It was so great to get the behind the scenes of BET and the business deals and hard choices that were being made. The one shortcoming of the book is the chronology gets confusing in places. Even with that I would recommend it. Debra ends the book saying "Success and self-doubt are not mutually exclusive" and those are the words I needed to hear as a woman entrepreneur in a new field.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2024
I just completed the audiobook I Am Debra Lee by former CEO of BET Debra Lee. Pub date is March 7th. I really enjoyed learning about Debra’s story.
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Here’s some of my thoughts:
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• I didn’t know much about Debra Lee before listening to the audiobook. I learned a lot. Great personal/professional life balance in the book.
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• Debra did a great job of expressing the emotions she experienced on her rise to the top of BET. I loved hearing her thoughts as she made decisions as an attorney, and as a CEO.
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• Some celebrities she shares stories about are:
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- Nelly: The shade is real. Nelly might wanna read this himself lol.
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- Chris Brown: I now know why Chris Brown didn’t perform in BET’s tribute to Michael Jackson days after Michael’s untimely demise. #RIPmichael
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- Aretha Franklin: Debra showed Aretha a lot of respect. Yet, at the same time she sprinkled that respect with small doses of shade, all in the same story.
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- Oprah: According to Debra, Oprah should have done her homework before she stepped into the television network ring with Debra Lee. OWN may be about peace, love and happiness. But BET is all about dat dolla, dolla bill y’all.
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• I was surprised to learn that BET had a policy that stated they were never allowed to show, or state anything negative about Beyoncé . It was a rule created out of fear Beyhive’s powerful retaliation.
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• I think Debra was very authentic & forthcoming with her story. Even admitting that she had an affair with Bob Johnson founder of BET. She was also forthcoming with Bob’s story revealing that Bob once lied and told his staff he had cancer.
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• Sadly, l learned about the 2020 passing of Debra’s son Quinn in this book. In the Epilogue she briefly touches on her pain. Listening to this portion touched my heart. I could hear the grief and tears in voice.
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• If you’re into memoirs I recommend this one.
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* Her story is all about Black Girl Power.
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• I recommend reading the hard copy over listening to the audiobook. Although, the book is read by Debra Lee, which I like, her narration is very dry.
⠀
Thanks Legacy Lit Books & Libro.fm for gifting me an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
⠀
Here’s some of my thoughts:
⠀
• I didn’t know much about Debra Lee before listening to the audiobook. I learned a lot. Great personal/professional life balance in the book.
⠀
• Debra did a great job of expressing the emotions she experienced on her rise to the top of BET. I loved hearing her thoughts as she made decisions as an attorney, and as a CEO.
⠀
• Some celebrities she shares stories about are:
⠀
- Nelly: The shade is real. Nelly might wanna read this himself lol.
⠀
- Chris Brown: I now know why Chris Brown didn’t perform in BET’s tribute to Michael Jackson days after Michael’s untimely demise. #RIPmichael
⠀
- Aretha Franklin: Debra showed Aretha a lot of respect. Yet, at the same time she sprinkled that respect with small doses of shade, all in the same story.
⠀
- Oprah: According to Debra, Oprah should have done her homework before she stepped into the television network ring with Debra Lee. OWN may be about peace, love and happiness. But BET is all about dat dolla, dolla bill y’all.
⠀
• I was surprised to learn that BET had a policy that stated they were never allowed to show, or state anything negative about Beyoncé . It was a rule created out of fear Beyhive’s powerful retaliation.
⠀
• I think Debra was very authentic & forthcoming with her story. Even admitting that she had an affair with Bob Johnson founder of BET. She was also forthcoming with Bob’s story revealing that Bob once lied and told his staff he had cancer.
⠀
• Sadly, l learned about the 2020 passing of Debra’s son Quinn in this book. In the Epilogue she briefly touches on her pain. Listening to this portion touched my heart. I could hear the grief and tears in voice.
⠀
• If you’re into memoirs I recommend this one.
⠀
* Her story is all about Black Girl Power.
⠀
• I recommend reading the hard copy over listening to the audiobook. Although, the book is read by Debra Lee, which I like, her narration is very dry.
⠀
Thanks Legacy Lit Books & Libro.fm for gifting me an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2023
Chiiiiiiiiiiiiile…
I said I wouldn’t read this book cause of the scandal but who am I to judge?? I ain’t nobody. I won’t say I got anything deep or new from this book but it sure does help to be able to tell your own story. Auntie Sheila kept it light and breezy on Ms Debra so imma go that route too lol. It struck me that both women somewhat resemble which was crazy to ME!
It was also wild knowing that her husband didn’t know either, yikes! Watching her give those speeches at the BET functions always seemed coerced and uncomfortable for me to simply watch & now I know why. I will take nothing from her but for the life of me, some stuff you just gotta deny to your grave honey! RIP to her son, that had to be a tuff part of the book to write. My thoughts & prayers to his family and friends.
p.s. looking back, sometimes the best call isn’t the right call and you don’t have to hold the reins so tight in order to feel like you are in control. I’m not sure BET took a turn for the better when she took over, I think I was over the “BETs” of it all by then but I’ve not been interested in BET since Big Tigga, AJ & Free left… shrug. I really wanted to simply watch a network that gave me some semblance of home; I can’t say BET done that. Oh well, read the book if you’d like to hear her side.
I said I wouldn’t read this book cause of the scandal but who am I to judge?? I ain’t nobody. I won’t say I got anything deep or new from this book but it sure does help to be able to tell your own story. Auntie Sheila kept it light and breezy on Ms Debra so imma go that route too lol. It struck me that both women somewhat resemble which was crazy to ME!
It was also wild knowing that her husband didn’t know either, yikes! Watching her give those speeches at the BET functions always seemed coerced and uncomfortable for me to simply watch & now I know why. I will take nothing from her but for the life of me, some stuff you just gotta deny to your grave honey! RIP to her son, that had to be a tuff part of the book to write. My thoughts & prayers to his family and friends.
p.s. looking back, sometimes the best call isn’t the right call and you don’t have to hold the reins so tight in order to feel like you are in control. I’m not sure BET took a turn for the better when she took over, I think I was over the “BETs” of it all by then but I’ve not been interested in BET since Big Tigga, AJ & Free left… shrug. I really wanted to simply watch a network that gave me some semblance of home; I can’t say BET done that. Oh well, read the book if you’d like to hear her side.
March 10, 2023
It was fine. Memoirs are hard since they're so subjective. I just didn't find this story unique or compelling enough to make it stand out as a memoir as some others have. The audio felt very dry and, even though read by the author herself, felt very detached making it hard to connect to her story.
Thanks to Librofm and Hachette Audio for this complimentary audiobook. My thoughts are my own.
Thanks to Librofm and Hachette Audio for this complimentary audiobook. My thoughts are my own.
January 15, 2025
Officially 2.5 ⭐️s. I was pretty dissapointed by the writing and felt like it overshadowed a story about a very accomplished life. It was very repetitive , circular and scattered. I think with the right editor it could have really been cleaned up and reshaped. I mostly read this to discover how in the world did she become involved with her boss. Yes i know these relationships are fairly common but it was still puzzling how a woman of her career tenure could fall into those circumstances. After reading i have to say i am even more puzzled since the relationship started so many years after she was in a senior role and had been established as a professional in executive leadership. There are also some questionable romantic decisions prior to her relationship with her CEO that seem odd for someone who otherwise seemed to have sound judgement. I hope other professional women will heed her warning about these kinds of relationships because it almost ruined her legacy and hard work.
June 27, 2023
I never knew much about Debra Lee outside the fact that she was the former CEO of BET. She was a lawyer who became a lawyer because her father wanted her to become one. I loved all the references of the celebrities and music industry. She really showed how the work politics were for a black woman working her way up ranks!
September 12, 2023
"Our difficulties don't define us, that trauma and hardship don't make us who we are, that we all either been through it or going through it."
Such a powerful book, written by a powerful woman! It was interesting to hear about her ups and downs at BET and how she came into her own and turned the ship in the right direction but also knew when to bow out when it didn't serve her anymore.
Such a powerful book, written by a powerful woman! It was interesting to hear about her ups and downs at BET and how she came into her own and turned the ship in the right direction but also knew when to bow out when it didn't serve her anymore.
January 6, 2024
It was interesting to learn about her and her life and career. I enjoyed it.
February 6, 2024
Lots of little tips and reminders!! Greatly appreciated
March 20, 2023
I most enjoyed the gems on navigating work/office life.
February 22, 2024
queeeeeeeeen
March 9, 2023
Wow. I’ve always viewed Debra Lee as an extraordinary women and to hear her tell her story brings things full circle. Her memoir is a gentle reminder of the many things women have to grow through working in a male dominated world. I appreciate how vulnerable she allows herself to be highlighting times where she felt her voice wasn’t heard and how she would handle a situation if she had another chance.
May 16, 2023
I Am Debra Lee: A Memoir by Debra Lee
Released March 7, 2023
<3 This memoir was nothing like I was expecting. Just when I was going to listen to one more chapter and save the rest for tomorrow, Ms. Debra Lee revealed something that I had to rewind and play again to ensure I heard what I thought I heard. SMH I then had to complete the book in its entirety. I did not see that #shitshow coming! We all got something! I am not sure what I just found out will be news to others--perhaps it was only me living under a rock when all this was going on. This is a #MustRead especially for women of BIPOC communities. This was an incredible trip down memory lane around the history of #BET that propelled into a Multi-Billon dollar juggernaut with Ms. Lees #Blood #Sweat and #Tears in a male dominated industry as she was being groomed with the #MeTOO movement. OMG! What an incredible testimony. <3
As an incredible glass-ceiling breaker and the woman who brought timeless television shows like The Game and Being Mary Jane to cable, Debra Lee has been the visionary responsible for elevating Black images and storytelling for decades. Now she’s telling her own story, in an intimate and eye-opening tale about the triumphant and tricky moments of a career in entertainment.
I Am Debra Lee is a page-turner, filled with deeply personal revelations, juicy celebrity intel, and electrifying behind-the-scenes stories that reveal how she went from a girl raised in the segregated South to leading the first Black company traded on the New York Stock Exchange and how she juggled social responsibility while managing a company targeted toward the Black community. In a rousing narrative, Lee writes: “I don’t just love Black culture—the magic in our hair, the swagger in our steps, the particular way we can say ‘alright now’ to fit our changing moods—Black culture saved me.” In her exciting debut, she answers all of our questions about building an unapologetically Black enterprise as a Black woman. What to do when you’re forced to attend a board meeting eight weeks after a C-section. How to manage a team of men when you’re the first female CEO at the company. How she learned the hard way to say no to those in power when their vision didn’t align with her purpose.
I Am Debra Lee tackles lessons that women CEOs rarely dare to. She addresses her personal struggles with motherhood and “having it all,” navigating reproductive choice, fertility, and #MeToo while achieving great professional success. Being Black and a woman in corporate life isn’t easy for anyone. But Lee shows how she evolved from a shy girl who dreaded public speaking to becoming a force to be reckoned with as she helped build the leading entertainment company for Black audiences and consumers of Black culture globally.
I Am Debra Lee is a must-read for all strivers in any industry. Lee is a truthteller about the critical choices that Black leaders face. As she has done her whole career, in this book, she opens the door for others to come after her, by sharing the truth behind her own inspiring story of power, perseverance, and success.
Released March 7, 2023
<3 This memoir was nothing like I was expecting. Just when I was going to listen to one more chapter and save the rest for tomorrow, Ms. Debra Lee revealed something that I had to rewind and play again to ensure I heard what I thought I heard. SMH I then had to complete the book in its entirety. I did not see that #shitshow coming! We all got something! I am not sure what I just found out will be news to others--perhaps it was only me living under a rock when all this was going on. This is a #MustRead especially for women of BIPOC communities. This was an incredible trip down memory lane around the history of #BET that propelled into a Multi-Billon dollar juggernaut with Ms. Lees #Blood #Sweat and #Tears in a male dominated industry as she was being groomed with the #MeTOO movement. OMG! What an incredible testimony. <3
As an incredible glass-ceiling breaker and the woman who brought timeless television shows like The Game and Being Mary Jane to cable, Debra Lee has been the visionary responsible for elevating Black images and storytelling for decades. Now she’s telling her own story, in an intimate and eye-opening tale about the triumphant and tricky moments of a career in entertainment.
I Am Debra Lee is a page-turner, filled with deeply personal revelations, juicy celebrity intel, and electrifying behind-the-scenes stories that reveal how she went from a girl raised in the segregated South to leading the first Black company traded on the New York Stock Exchange and how she juggled social responsibility while managing a company targeted toward the Black community. In a rousing narrative, Lee writes: “I don’t just love Black culture—the magic in our hair, the swagger in our steps, the particular way we can say ‘alright now’ to fit our changing moods—Black culture saved me.” In her exciting debut, she answers all of our questions about building an unapologetically Black enterprise as a Black woman. What to do when you’re forced to attend a board meeting eight weeks after a C-section. How to manage a team of men when you’re the first female CEO at the company. How she learned the hard way to say no to those in power when their vision didn’t align with her purpose.
I Am Debra Lee tackles lessons that women CEOs rarely dare to. She addresses her personal struggles with motherhood and “having it all,” navigating reproductive choice, fertility, and #MeToo while achieving great professional success. Being Black and a woman in corporate life isn’t easy for anyone. But Lee shows how she evolved from a shy girl who dreaded public speaking to becoming a force to be reckoned with as she helped build the leading entertainment company for Black audiences and consumers of Black culture globally.
I Am Debra Lee is a must-read for all strivers in any industry. Lee is a truthteller about the critical choices that Black leaders face. As she has done her whole career, in this book, she opens the door for others to come after her, by sharing the truth behind her own inspiring story of power, perseverance, and success.
October 9, 2024
Didn't know who she was, but a friend recommended it and Debra's story impressed and intrigued me. Open and honest about her challenges, strides, and successes as an exec in the entertainment industry. 4.5 stars
Story: 4 Characters: 5 Engagement level: 5
Recco: yes
"Playing small and staying quiet not only stole my power, but it also took away my purpose. I couldn't let that happen."
Highlights
- Told her story like you were a casual friend
- Showed she wasn't perfect
- Examples of how she persevered and stood her ground
- Vibrant picture of what it's like as a woman leader
- Kept it engaging while way through
- Great life lessons
Midlights:
- Confirmed I don't have desire to have an all encompassing career
Lowlights:
- Got bit slower and darker towards the end
- Epilogue was a quick ending with a tragedy that seemed like it deserved more than just a few pages
Notable quotes:
"Nice I may be, but pushover I am not."
"Whenever you try to do anything differently, dissenting opinion will pop up in your path. Just don't let it slow you down."
"His power was like a bullet, and I was done being target practice."
"The learning curve was steep, and I've never been a fan of roller coasters, but I strapped myself in and went for it."
"Whatever you do, own it. Because the consequences— good or bad—are yours and yours alone."
"Because when Bob first introduced me, the eye rolls were loud."
"Marriage, any long-term relationship, is a marathon. Check in at every mile marker."
"But that doesn't mean you should ever feel the need to explain yourself or your power to anyone. You've earned it- most likely by doing more for less for far too long. Your power is yours to wield as you see fit, and you don't have to apologize for it."
"That's why I wrote this book. To show that success and self-doubt are not mutually exclusive. That your highest highs can be followed by your lowest lows. And you are not alone. You don't have anything to be ashamed of."
Story: 4 Characters: 5 Engagement level: 5
Recco: yes
"Playing small and staying quiet not only stole my power, but it also took away my purpose. I couldn't let that happen."
Highlights
- Told her story like you were a casual friend
- Showed she wasn't perfect
- Examples of how she persevered and stood her ground
- Vibrant picture of what it's like as a woman leader
- Kept it engaging while way through
- Great life lessons
Midlights:
- Confirmed I don't have desire to have an all encompassing career
Lowlights:
- Got bit slower and darker towards the end
- Epilogue was a quick ending with a tragedy that seemed like it deserved more than just a few pages
Notable quotes:
"Nice I may be, but pushover I am not."
"Whenever you try to do anything differently, dissenting opinion will pop up in your path. Just don't let it slow you down."
"His power was like a bullet, and I was done being target practice."
"The learning curve was steep, and I've never been a fan of roller coasters, but I strapped myself in and went for it."
"Whatever you do, own it. Because the consequences— good or bad—are yours and yours alone."
"Because when Bob first introduced me, the eye rolls were loud."
"Marriage, any long-term relationship, is a marathon. Check in at every mile marker."
"But that doesn't mean you should ever feel the need to explain yourself or your power to anyone. You've earned it- most likely by doing more for less for far too long. Your power is yours to wield as you see fit, and you don't have to apologize for it."
"That's why I wrote this book. To show that success and self-doubt are not mutually exclusive. That your highest highs can be followed by your lowest lows. And you are not alone. You don't have anything to be ashamed of."
July 5, 2024
3.5 Stars, which I will round down to 3 Stars overall.
When I picked up this book, I was excited to get started. I wanted to understand more about this powerful woman who moved her way up in the BET world, and how she got there. It sounded like such an empowering story; a woman, the entertainment world, and an African American during a time when it was hard just to be a woman and get anywhere in these big businesses.
However, I did not really enjoy this book. As others have mentioned, it did not feel like a memoir. I don't feel like I learned who Debra was. I know bits about her in the sense that she talks about her parents divorce, her father's expectations that she would attend Law School even though she was interested in fashion, and her two marriages (along with her affair with her boss at BET). But that is really it about who Debra is. I wanted more. I wanted to know about her growing up. What lead her to Brown for University, more about her aspirations to be in fashion as a younger woman, that whole thing. I also wanted to know more about your life trying to juggle her high powered career, and how it affected her at home. I know she was divorced twice but there was not much about her life outside of BET. Her son, Quinn, passed away but you only read about it in the final chapter. I felt like stories were started, then never finished. Or you got the end of the story, but not the beginning or the middle of it. It was confusing.
The writing was good. It was kind of interesting to read about certain decisions Debra made as the person in charge at BET. It was interesting to see her rise there but, this entire book was about her career, not who she really is. I feel like the title was misleading because I was hoping to learn about Debra, not the history of BET.
3.5 stars because it was well written and some sections were interesting. 3 stars because I expected a lot more.
When I picked up this book, I was excited to get started. I wanted to understand more about this powerful woman who moved her way up in the BET world, and how she got there. It sounded like such an empowering story; a woman, the entertainment world, and an African American during a time when it was hard just to be a woman and get anywhere in these big businesses.
However, I did not really enjoy this book. As others have mentioned, it did not feel like a memoir. I don't feel like I learned who Debra was. I know bits about her in the sense that she talks about her parents divorce, her father's expectations that she would attend Law School even though she was interested in fashion, and her two marriages (along with her affair with her boss at BET). But that is really it about who Debra is. I wanted more. I wanted to know about her growing up. What lead her to Brown for University, more about her aspirations to be in fashion as a younger woman, that whole thing. I also wanted to know more about your life trying to juggle her high powered career, and how it affected her at home. I know she was divorced twice but there was not much about her life outside of BET. Her son, Quinn, passed away but you only read about it in the final chapter. I felt like stories were started, then never finished. Or you got the end of the story, but not the beginning or the middle of it. It was confusing.
The writing was good. It was kind of interesting to read about certain decisions Debra made as the person in charge at BET. It was interesting to see her rise there but, this entire book was about her career, not who she really is. I feel like the title was misleading because I was hoping to learn about Debra, not the history of BET.
3.5 stars because it was well written and some sections were interesting. 3 stars because I expected a lot more.
April 25, 2023
I didn't know that much about Debra Lee other than her being head of BET for years and I'm so glad I gave her book a listen. SHE HAS LIVED! What a success story she has. I was surprised to hear that she gets anxiety public speaking. I never would've known the few times I've seen her on television. I was clutching my imaginary pearls at her talking about her affair with the Bob Johnson. He sounds like a maniac! I'm glad she spoke on how the lines were blurred because she was scared to tell him no a lot of times thinking she would lose her job. There are so many women who have been in her situation. She speaks of Bob lying about something serious (trying not to spoil) and all I could do was shake my head!
Hearing the backstage drama at BET was something. I remember there being an uproar in BET showing BET Uncut and someone saying something out of the way about Blue Ivy's hair. I enjoyed hearing her talk about her interaction with Aretha Franklin. She sounded like she didn't take any mess if she was calling Debra Lee up to tell her what she was gonna do.
At the end my heart broke for Debra Lee as she spoke about the loss of her son. While googling her name before starting the book I found out he had passed at the young age of 31. Hearing her try to keep her voice steady in the end as she talked about missing him was sad. He sounded like an amazing young man.
PLEASE give this a listen/read. You will not be sorry.
Hearing the backstage drama at BET was something. I remember there being an uproar in BET showing BET Uncut and someone saying something out of the way about Blue Ivy's hair. I enjoyed hearing her talk about her interaction with Aretha Franklin. She sounded like she didn't take any mess if she was calling Debra Lee up to tell her what she was gonna do.
At the end my heart broke for Debra Lee as she spoke about the loss of her son. While googling her name before starting the book I found out he had passed at the young age of 31. Hearing her try to keep her voice steady in the end as she talked about missing him was sad. He sounded like an amazing young man.
PLEASE give this a listen/read. You will not be sorry.
May 30, 2023
This month we read I am Debra Lee which is a Memoir. Debra Lee is the former CEO of BET for those who don’t know. We are a nosy bunch so we was reading this hoping to get some tea!
The book speaks about how she started out growing up in the segregated south and dealing with all the issues that came with that. To letting her father basically control and map out her life if becoming a lawyer. Although life for her was not always glamorous and she dealt with her own issues of being shy. Debra writes a book of overcoming all of challenges and hoping that any girl reading her book won’t get stuck in their struggle but will overcome it!
While she does address many things in the book such as being the only woman as a CEO for a long time and trying to manage work and family life we felt like she could have given us a little more insight into those things. The book speaks a lot about BET because she spent many years there and she also speaks about her affair with her boss who was CEO at the time. If you are looking to read a story that does have inspiring moments and want to know of her success of being a CEO of BET then this is the book for you.
The book speaks about how she started out growing up in the segregated south and dealing with all the issues that came with that. To letting her father basically control and map out her life if becoming a lawyer. Although life for her was not always glamorous and she dealt with her own issues of being shy. Debra writes a book of overcoming all of challenges and hoping that any girl reading her book won’t get stuck in their struggle but will overcome it!
While she does address many things in the book such as being the only woman as a CEO for a long time and trying to manage work and family life we felt like she could have given us a little more insight into those things. The book speaks a lot about BET because she spent many years there and she also speaks about her affair with her boss who was CEO at the time. If you are looking to read a story that does have inspiring moments and want to know of her success of being a CEO of BET then this is the book for you.
April 4, 2023
A fast-paced read about the rise of BET, Debra Lee's compelling journey to become CEO of the powerful network, and the challenges along the way, including a behind-the-scenes look at navigating celebrity demands from icons like Aretha (who became a friend over the years) to Oprah (Ms. Lee does not play). The memoir also tackles both BET's commitment and evolution in celebrating Back culture, gender power dynamics, and the dearth of Black women mentors in the corporate world. One of the compelling threads throughout the book is the author's relationship with her father, who pushes her to excel, but their vision for her future doesn't always align. Lee talks about ultimately releasing her "good girl mentality" to fight for the title, salary, and respect that she and women - especially Black women in corporate America - deserve in the historically male-dominated entertainment industry. Somewhere, I suspect Aretha is beaming.
September 19, 2023
I can’t say I was really interested in her story but I do love a memoir. Unfortunately I didn’t love this one. It’s billed to a guide to women in business but it actually felt like a guide to how to be a victim, just don’t call me one.
The story didn’t flow well for me it was a lot of tug of war between the phases of her life. When the book was released everyone talked about the affair she had with Bob Johnson. At no point did she ever say they were attracted to each other, just one day he touched her arm and then it was a full blown affair. She reveres Bob as a mentor/loyal friend and someone who believed in her so much he kept dumping work for her to do. When I fact he was a master manipulator and I use master loosely. Overall I wasn’t inspired nor disappointed. I have to find a friend who has read it as well to discuss.
The last few minutes of the book when she spoke of her son who passed away suddenly were heartbreaking. And I almost forgave the rest of the book.
The story didn’t flow well for me it was a lot of tug of war between the phases of her life. When the book was released everyone talked about the affair she had with Bob Johnson. At no point did she ever say they were attracted to each other, just one day he touched her arm and then it was a full blown affair. She reveres Bob as a mentor/loyal friend and someone who believed in her so much he kept dumping work for her to do. When I fact he was a master manipulator and I use master loosely. Overall I wasn’t inspired nor disappointed. I have to find a friend who has read it as well to discuss.
The last few minutes of the book when she spoke of her son who passed away suddenly were heartbreaking. And I almost forgave the rest of the book.
February 14, 2023
Title: I Am Debra Lee: A Memoir
Author: Debra Lee
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Read if you like:
Memoirs
Strong Black Women
Entertainment Industry
BET Network
My Thoughts:
Talk about someone that has been through a lot, but shined through all of the diversity. In this memoir Debra talks about everything she went through to find herself, her career, her voice, and more. Debra opens up about being picked on for being a women executive in the boys club entertainment industry. How she battled being questioned or ignored for everything she requested. But overall how she kept her head held high and was able to bring a new life and a successful life to BET after she was named CEO of the network. This memoir dives into some of the abuse that she endured from her former boss, and how she found her voice thanks to friends to come out stronger on the other side. I think this is a great memoir and cannot wait for everyone to get their hands on it!
Author: Debra Lee
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Read if you like:
Memoirs
Strong Black Women
Entertainment Industry
BET Network
My Thoughts:
Talk about someone that has been through a lot, but shined through all of the diversity. In this memoir Debra talks about everything she went through to find herself, her career, her voice, and more. Debra opens up about being picked on for being a women executive in the boys club entertainment industry. How she battled being questioned or ignored for everything she requested. But overall how she kept her head held high and was able to bring a new life and a successful life to BET after she was named CEO of the network. This memoir dives into some of the abuse that she endured from her former boss, and how she found her voice thanks to friends to come out stronger on the other side. I think this is a great memoir and cannot wait for everyone to get their hands on it!
April 19, 2023
This book was very inciteful as to how hard it used to be for a woman to climb the corporate ladder. It gives way to how mentorship is needed at every level of successs even when you've reached a high status.
I felt a little let down by how easily swayed Ms. Debra was by Bob and how little she fought for her marriage. However, with that being said, I still think Ms. Debra is a very strong woman to have endured everything from being a "lady boss" in a "man's world" to a miscarriage while still continuing to work, to a divorce while at the top of her game to losing a child. It takes a strong person to go through all of that and not crack up! #GirlPower
I think Bob was a true sleaze. He knew he was a powerful man and that no one would say no to him. He took advantage of his role. Thankfully, it didn't break Ms. Debra nor tarnish the company.
I felt a little let down by how easily swayed Ms. Debra was by Bob and how little she fought for her marriage. However, with that being said, I still think Ms. Debra is a very strong woman to have endured everything from being a "lady boss" in a "man's world" to a miscarriage while still continuing to work, to a divorce while at the top of her game to losing a child. It takes a strong person to go through all of that and not crack up! #GirlPower
I think Bob was a true sleaze. He knew he was a powerful man and that no one would say no to him. He took advantage of his role. Thankfully, it didn't break Ms. Debra nor tarnish the company.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 27, 2024
This is the kind of book that leaves an impact. Usually when I finish a book I move on to the next. But I'm still reeling and I can't concentrate on my next book just yet. So many things resonated with both my personal and professional journeys as they stand currently. It especially pertains to my current transition.
I listened to the book and I found myself pausing it to explain a few things to my 10 year old. I would also give examples that related to her 4th grade drama. She's starting to notice different dynamics and she is asking questions. This is a great example to let her know that it's not just words from her mom. WE experience the same situations. Of course this only pertains to parts she was allowed to listen to.😏
I will definitely recommend this book to friends. I thoroughly enjoyed it!!
I listened to the book and I found myself pausing it to explain a few things to my 10 year old. I would also give examples that related to her 4th grade drama. She's starting to notice different dynamics and she is asking questions. This is a great example to let her know that it's not just words from her mom. WE experience the same situations. Of course this only pertains to parts she was allowed to listen to.😏
I will definitely recommend this book to friends. I thoroughly enjoyed it!!
April 18, 2025
my honest thoughts as i made my way through the book
1. this story does not seem nearly interesting or unique enough to warrant a book but like im happy for u queen
2. why are we ass kissing this bob guy so much he sounds like he SUCKS and is constantly taking advantage of u and ur just saying "thank u <3" even in the retrospective lens of the book
3. wait ok we are gonna spend 2/3 of the book saying we luv bob hes so good at business, just to drop the me too movement (valid tho) and then resolve that chapter of your life within 20 pages??
4. reaaaaaaally milking the chris brown thing
5. circling back around to idk if this really needed to be a whole book
3/10
also found the narrative device of opening with a celebrity-related anecdote just to jump back in time and then catch us up on how you got there in the first place annoying after the second use of it
1. this story does not seem nearly interesting or unique enough to warrant a book but like im happy for u queen
2. why are we ass kissing this bob guy so much he sounds like he SUCKS and is constantly taking advantage of u and ur just saying "thank u <3" even in the retrospective lens of the book
3. wait ok we are gonna spend 2/3 of the book saying we luv bob hes so good at business, just to drop the me too movement (valid tho) and then resolve that chapter of your life within 20 pages??
4. reaaaaaaally milking the chris brown thing
5. circling back around to idk if this really needed to be a whole book
3/10
also found the narrative device of opening with a celebrity-related anecdote just to jump back in time and then catch us up on how you got there in the first place annoying after the second use of it
June 19, 2023
Growing up, if I wasn't watching MTV, I was 100% watching BET.
Univision and Telemundo weren't for me so I embraced BET because it spoke my language.
It was urban, young, and shone a spotlight on the R&B and hip hop that I loved so much.
I loved and admired Debra Lee for being the boss.
I always smiled whenever she was acknowledged at the BET Awards or one of the other amazing shows they put on.
When I saw that Debra wrote a memoir, I had to read it.
This did not disappoint.
She shared all about her life, perspective, struggles, and triumphs.
She made some great decisions and some poor ones, but they're all part of her legacy.
The epilogue broke my heart in two and I cried along with her.
Univision and Telemundo weren't for me so I embraced BET because it spoke my language.
It was urban, young, and shone a spotlight on the R&B and hip hop that I loved so much.
I loved and admired Debra Lee for being the boss.
I always smiled whenever she was acknowledged at the BET Awards or one of the other amazing shows they put on.
When I saw that Debra wrote a memoir, I had to read it.
This did not disappoint.
She shared all about her life, perspective, struggles, and triumphs.
She made some great decisions and some poor ones, but they're all part of her legacy.
The epilogue broke my heart in two and I cried along with her.
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