BET Talks

Tamika Mallory on Rising Above & Finding Freedom to Write ‘I Lived to Tell the Story’

Episode Notes

In this raw and inspiring episode of BET Talks, activist and thought leader Tamika Mallory opens up about her powerful journey of resilience and activism. 

She shares how her fight against oppression began, reflecting on becoming a mother at a young age and the heartbreaking loss of her child’s father. 

Tamika also reveals how her parents responded to her deeply personal new book and the life experiences that shaped her voice as a leader. 

This is more than a conversation—it’s a testament to strength, healing, and the unwavering fight for justice.

• 00:00 - Introducing Tamika D. Mallory
• 00:58 - Life as a Grandmother
• 01:26 - Fighting for Family, Fighting for Us
• 02:19 - 45 Years of BET: A Celebration
• 02:36 - Icebreaker: Frontline Music
• 03:57 - Creating the Powerful 'I Lived To Tell The Story' Cover
• 06:39 - Staying Unbroken: Tamika’s Journey
• 08:06 - Growing Up in an Activist Home
• 09:18 - Reflecting on Loss: The Murder of Her Son’s Father
• 10:34 - Teen Pregnancy: The Challenges of Growing Up Fast
• 12:16 - The Hard Truth About Writing 'I Lived To Tell The Story'
• 14:12 - Unlearning & Rebuilding
• 16:26 - Breaking Free: Overcoming Addiction & Finding Healing
• 18:36 - Facing Criticism from Those Closest to You
• 22:03 - Finding Freedom in Being Your True Self
• 25:01 - Life's Cheatsheet: Lessons Learned
• 25:46 - Tamika's Final Thoughts and Wrap Up