Ernest Owens

[ernestowens]

THE DREAM HAS COME TRUE (AGAIN)! I GOT ANOTHER MAJOR BOOK DEAL! I’M GOING TO BE AN AUTHOR (AGAIN)!

I feel immense gratitude, excitement, and all the feels as I type this. For the past two years, I’ve been quietly working on another book that I knew would be just as timely, necessary, personal, and most importantly, one that I knew I could only write. So many had told me to just play it safe this time around (given the current political climate), but that’s just not who I am or what I do. I’m now proud to say that believing in myself and the process has once again paid off and my life will never be the same because of it.

Today, it’s official: I’ve signed a new book deal with Beacon Press to release my second book “Divided We Stan: How Stan Culture Evolved into Sociopolitical Chaos.” This adult nonfiction book will chronicle the history of obsessive internet fandom in American politics as we know it and how liberals, conservatives, and the most powerful have weaponized it against democracy. I unapologetically argue that stan culture is one of the surefire indicators of modern-day fascism.

Yes, this is a polarizing book.

Yes, this will create debate.

And yes, I’m ready to put it all in a book – again.

Who would have ever thought that the follow-up to my debut book on cancel culture would inspire this? After years of touring, debating, and discussing the themes of my last book with readers – it became clear where things were headed next.

I’m super grateful to my literary agent, the incomparable Carly Watters of P.S. Literary Agency who have been by my side for the past year as this topic has evolved. To work with Beacon Press this time around is a dream come true – they have published classics from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., James Baldwin, Cornel West, Howard Zinn, and more. It’s a true honor that one of the most progressive book publishers in the world believes my perspective deserves to be told and distributed to the masses. I'm excited to be able to go on tour again, do more speaking engagements, and media appearances, with the marketing/promoting on another different level!

I want to seriously thank all of y’all who have followed me on this wild journey – from newspapers to magazines, TV, radio, podcast, social media, classrooms, panels, debate stages, bookshelves, and more – I’m so thankful to have the continuous encouragement and love of a genuine following that’s evolved with me along the way. 

All of that played a huge role in making this possible again. Y’all are truly the best.

2027 is going to be lit. As you can see, I’ve got my work cut out for myself. Get ready for more big announcements to come soon!

“Ernest Owens, Author: Part 2” is officially loading.

P.S. And yes, I’m looking for diverse experts, scholars, activists, consultants, and those who have unique experiences and/or perspectives on stan culture from various political and social backgrounds.

Fill out this form to be considered for an interview!

[ernestowens]

FIVE YEARS OF ERNESTLY SPEAKING! NEW ERA BEGINS!

SEASON 10 PREMIERE: Monday, January 12th at midnight!

Happy 5th Anniversary to the podcast that thousands of you have tuned into every week -- Ernestly Speaking!

Subscribe to my hit podcast for FREE!

[ernestowens]

Official Bio of Ernest Owens

Ernest Owens is an award-winning journalist and CEO of Ernest Media Empire, LLC. He is the President of the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists and a proud life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He is the executive producer and host of the hit podcast “Ernestly Speaking!” and host of “On the Record with Ernest Owens” on WURD Radio. He’s 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 an openly Black gay journalist, he has made headlines for speaking frankly about intersectional issues in society regarding race, LGBTQIA issues, and pop culture. In 2018, he launched his growing media company that specializes in multimedia production, consulting, and communications.

An innovative millennial, Ernest has already become an emerging media mogul in his own right. He received his 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. He’s an adjunct professor at Community College of Philadelphia. His work has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, CNN, NBC, NPR, and other prominent media outlets. He serves on the boards of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (Mid-Atlantic Chapter), Society of Professional Journalists Foundation, and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity (Rho Chapter), along with also being a member of the Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists, the Podcast Academy, the National Association of Parliamentarians, and the Online News Association.

He has earned countless honors, which includes landing on the 2025 Most Influential African Americans list by The Philadelphia Tribune, the 2023 City & State PA Pride Power 100 list, 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, he was nominated for a GLAAD Media Award for his writing at Rolling Stone magazine. He can be found on Instagram, X, Threads, and other social media platforms at @MrErnestOwens & ernestowens.com. 

For Virtual and In-Person Speaking Inquiries: 

Sean Lawton 

Collective Speakers 

720-778-2776 

[email protected]

[ernestowens]

New official headshots by Kyron Ryals.

[ernestowens]

I HAVE A NEW RADIO SHOW PREMIERING SEPTEMBER 14TH! ON THE RECORD! In what’s been a secret I’ve been waiting to publicly reveal for weeks, I’m proud to finally announce that I have a new talk radio show on WURD Radio debuting next Sunday! 🔥 “On the Record with Ernest Owens” is an hourlong Sunday morning public affairs show that analytically dives deep into the local political news of the week -- all while making bold predictions toward the week ahead. I’ll be giving timely takes on the top local political stories, exclusive interviews with movers & shakers, and engaging with listeners live! Another bonus: Reruns of each episode will be immediately available online for people to listen whenever and wherever! After hosting Philadelphia City Council Live for the past two years, this is a dream come true — and a major breakthrough. While I’ve often enjoyed the action of City Hall, roughly 85% of the three hours I was on live was dominated by the broadcasting of elected officials passing legislation. With “On the Record,” I will FINALLY get an opportunity to curate the topics that matter and will actually get to WEIGH IN on air – something that WURD listeners have been wanting from me and deserve. I can’t wait! Tune in to the big premiere on Sunday, September 14th at 10 am – and every Sunday after that! There’s some big surprises in store for y’all! ✨

[ernestowens]

My first day back at Community College of Philadelphia this semester had me teaching my first two classes at mass capacity -- 34 students in one class alone due to my popularity! 🔥 It was great to see so many students return and spread the word of what makes my courses unique! 🖤💙💛

[ernestowens]

AWARD-WINNING EDUCATOR: I’m honored to be recognized by the Community College of Philadelphia! This is the first time I’ve ever been awarded for my work in higher education – so this feels extra special. I’m thankful for the faculty and staff at CCP who nominated me – shout-out to Interim President Dr. Marshall and the English Department for empowering and encouraging my growth as a media scholar.

As I embark on another academic year at CCP, I look forward to teaching more classes, officially launching my new online public speaking course, and producing PABJ’s inaugural Emerging Media Diversity Convention on campus this fall. Now more than ever, it feels timely to not only be a journalist but to also impart my wisdom to aspiring students right now. Community colleges are very underrated institutions that are diverse regionally, racially, socioeconomically, and beyond – it’s a worthy investment for anyone looking to make an immediate, meaningful, and necessary impact.

I’m very grateful to do what I do and the versatility of a career that’s able to not only advance my talents – but be of true service. As I often tell my students and mentees – pursue a career that allows you to make memories, make money, and make a difference. Gracious to be able to continue to say that I’m living by example. ✨

[ernestowens]

HOLLYWOOD, HERE I COME! I’m thrilled to be part of the GLAAD 2025 Black Queer Creative Summit cohort — a gathering of bold, brilliant artists and changemakers building community, legacy, and joy that's taking place in LA in September! ✨🎬❤️

[ernestowens]

THE WAIT IS OVER! Registration is now open for Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists (PABJ)'s inaugural Emerging Media Diversity Convention at the Community College of Philadelphia from Friday, September 26 to Saturday, September 27. Geared towards local diverse journalists and media professionals between the ages of 21 and 40, the convention will train, mentor, and connect attendees through a series of professional development workshops, networking experiences, and an in-depth job fair/career expo.

The convention will kick off with an opening reception at 6 p.m. Friday, September 26th that will include networking, heavy horderves and an open bar, a keynote address, and a brief awards ceremony honoring an Emerging Journalist of the Year and an Emerging Media Professional of the Year.

From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, September 27 at Community College of Philadelphia, attendees will experience practitioner/expert-led workshops, a fireside chat, and an immersive media job fair/career expo. The media job fair/career expo will include recruiters from various companies and organizations seeking to hire journalists, content creators and communication/public relations professionals. Attendees will be able to have their resume reviewed, receive professional headshots, and participate in other interactive activities. Additional information on the Emerging Media Diversity Convention, including how to register, can be found online.

[ernestowens]

For the National Liberty Museum's "Year of Free Speech" Speaker Series, I was in a bold and timely conversation with Dov Davidoff (comedian and actor) and Rikki Schlott (The Canceling of the American Mind), moderated by Nick Gillespie, that dives deep into the tensions between accountability and censorship.

Can You Say That? Cancel Culture, Free Speech, and the Future of Public Debate

In an era where saying the wrong thing can spark a firestorm—or ignite a movement—what does it really mean to speak freely? Join a bold and

[ernestowens]

To best summarize the past week is very simple: "This is what feeling seen and heard looks like." The 98th General Convention of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity was outstanding. I feel reinvigorated as a proud Life Member and member of Rho Chapter. 🖤💛🤙🏾

[ernestowens]

ST. LOUIS, Y’ALL WERE PHENOMENAL! I had the pleasure of being the Keynote Speaker for 2025 Difficult Dialogues National Resource Center Conference at Washington University in St. Louis! It was a very inspiring event, filled with deep discussion, insight, and empowerment. ❤️ My keynote address, “The Art of Doing Instead of Saying,” was a very timely one. This year, I’ve had to navigate some very “difficult dialogues” in my own personal life that were super-anecdotal for this conference. The theme of my speech was rooted in my current life mantra that’s from the great James Baldwin: “I can’t believe what you say, because I see what you do.”

So much of my healthy cynicism of the world around me is warranted by the actions I’ve experienced and witnessed – in stark contrast to the promises and words people have said. My address unpacks what happens when boundaries are consistently crossed, grace is exploited, and bad faith supersedes good intentions. Too often, we find ourselves learning the wrong lessons from the right experiences – being our most subservient selves to those who would accept way less elsewhere. More importantly, how do we internally press forward after a betrayal, disappointment, or failure. These are some difficult dialogues indeed and it felt affirming to share my recommended best practices before a packed diverse crowd of attendees eager to be better, protect their peace, and grow more effectively.

While referencing my debut book “The Case for Cancel Culture,” a few attendees told me I should think about expanding on this topic if I ever considered writing another book. I chuckled to myself. lol Thank you Difficult Dialogues National Resource Center for this immense honor, the incredible staff at Washington University in St. Louis for hosting me, and my incredible/exceptional team at Collective Speakers for getting me booked here! Much more to come. ✨

[ernestowens]

BROTHER OF THE YEAR! I was totally surprised to be honored as Brother of the Year of the prestigious Rho Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity! 🤙🏾 For those within the Divine Nine, to receive this honor as a Neophyte is unprecedented. I'm beyond grateful to be recognized for my service and leadership within the fraternity. The past year has been an incredible journey that continues to get even more empowering, encouraging, and uplifting.

I'm thankful for my chapter President Bro. William Briggs, my incomparable Alpha mentors Bro. Gipson & Bro. Lamb, and my 12 incredible line brothers who continue to raise the bar non-stop and support me unapologetically. 🔥

I can't continue to say this enough: Being yourself relentlessly will open more doors for you than living a lie in fear. Every day, I'm reminded that just doing the work -- alongside maintaining perseverance and intentionality -- will speak for itself. Do you, loud and proud -- it's been the saving grace whenever it was time to once again make the impossible possible. The inexplicable joy I currently feel is deep and I'm once again reminded that I'm at the right place at the right time. Thank you, '06. 🖤💛

[ernestowens]

GRADUATION SEASON: My first Commencement as a Professor at Community College of Philadelphia 🖤💙💛 It has been a vigorous academic year of opportunity, persistence, and resilience. I started the Fall as an adjunct professor and got promoted to Visiting Lecturer Fellow in the Spring. Educating these diverse students has been a rewarding experience in ways that are bigger than I expected. As one of the few Black male educators within the faculty, I hold this role with great honor and privilege. I learn so much from them and to be able to instantly impart wisdom and expertise on their lives in real time has been touching. I'll never forget how many times I was mistaken as a student on my first days on CCP's campus or how I had to remind my students that even though I wasn't yet an "unc" -- I was still a "big bro" they had to listen to. Next week, my younger brother graduates from Temple in the same building hosting this very commencement. It's touching to know that he's not the only young graduate that I've inspired this season. 🎓

[ernestowens]

40 UNDER 40! I’m honored and touched to share that I’ve been named a 40 Under 40 Honoree for Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc! Words can’t describe this inexplicable experience. There are literally thousands of outstanding brothers in this fraternity who are innovators, trailblazers, and inspirations within their community — to be in that number with these incomparable Black men is truly an honor. It is during these special times when I’m reminded that continuing to challenge myself – along with the systems and institutions I cover often – is the answer to ongoing success. I’m so grateful to be seen and recognized in this way, and appreciative of the Mighty Rho Chapter I hail from and the great mentors I’ve made along the way!

[ernestowens]

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION! When you're in Cleveland to film a pilot episode of a new TV series inspired by the topic of your book with the legendary Chris Hansen! "Cancelled" coming soon to a screen near you! 🎬✨😉

[ernestowens]

Setting standards or stifling free speech? The case for and against cancel culture

Does cancelling people shut down debate and stifle ideological progression? Or is it simply a modern form of acceptable censorship? the Oxfo

I’M DEBATING IN OXFORD, ENGLAND! UNITED KINGDOM, HERE I COME! 🇬🇧 This week marks the 2-year anniversary of my debut book “The Case for Cancel Culture” and it’s being celebrated in the most extraordinary way. I’ve had the honor and privilege to be invited to participate in a historic debate on cancel culture hosted by the prestigious Oxford Union in England on Thursday! 🔥 Founded in 1823, The Oxford Union is the largest society at the University of Oxford and one of the most prestigious debating societies in the world. In the past, they’ve hosted visits from American Presidents Reagan, Nixon, and Carter, as well as notable figures including Queen Elizabeth II, Morgan Freeman, Malcolm X, Winston Churchill, Albert Einstein, Bernie Sanders, Tom Hanks, Malala, and the Dalai Lama, to name but a few. I’ll be debating in favor of cancel culture alongside a team of prestigious thought leaders from around the world – and yes, we’re ready to take on the opposition who wants to “cancel” cancel culture. The debate will be held in front of a live audience at Oxford, and filmed for everyone to later watch via their official YouTube channel. Words can’t describe how all of this feels right now. I’ve gotten to the point where even the lofty goals I’ve personally set for myself have been succumbed by inexplicable opportunities such as these. For this book to continue to find itself in the most unique spaces and places since the tour has been remarkable. I’m super grateful and excited all at the same damn time!

What I can now share is that in the Union's over 200 year history -- the debate was a tie, a historic first. From my position, that was a win for the opposition (my side). The Union's position was in favor of "Cancelling Cancel Culture," and my team presumed that no matter how well we debated -- that room was going to still go against our points. Going into that room of nearly 300 attendees (and yes, the vast majority of that crowd were white men), something told me that it was possible to change minds. We did, and we moved that audience straight to the middle. On February 18th, 1965, James Baldwin debated William Buckley on racism at The Cambridge Union Society. On February 20th, 2025 -- 60 years later -- I'm debating Dave Rubin on Cancel Culture. What a coincidence that six decades later a Black queer writer is engaging in such a prestigious debate in England on a timely issue? As you can see in this picture, so much has changed since 1965 and so much has not. But what remains consistent is the power of the voices who come from the experiences that I share -- and the need for the work to continue. ✨