We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr. A’Cire Newby and we’ve shared our conversation below.

**Honoring Heritage, Shaping Futures: The Inspirational Journey of Dr. A’Cire**

Hi Dr. A’Cire, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?

Dr. A’Cire Newby, Ph.D. is from the heart of Newport News, Virginia, but grew up in Decatur, GA. Dr, A’Cire’s current achievements are nothing short of extraordinary. Dr. A’Cire’s journey has been one of overcoming adversity, finding solace in creativity, and emerging as a powerful voice in television, radio, and literature. Dr. A’Cire (or The Real A’Cire) was partly raised in the Newport News area known as “down the bottom,” where the scent of steamed crabs permeates the air and low-income housing dominated the waterfront, Dr. A;Cire’s upbringing was marked by challenges and limitations. Yet, against this backdrop, she found the courage to defy expectations. Despite the prevalent narratives of military enlistment or athletic success as the sole paths to escape the confines of her environment, Dr. A’Cire dared to dream bigger. Her encounter with a Navy ship on the James River served as a pivotal moment as to why she didn’t want to enter the military. “I enrolled into NJROTC and was proud to wear the uniform. My NJROTC classmates and I were invited to go onto a Navy Ship for a tour and short ride. That ship took us out onto the James River. I recall seeing the land slowly fade away and quickly the Navy was no longer an option,” Says Dr. A’Cire shifting her perspective of enlisting into the Navy. Spending the summers in Georgia with her Aunt would open her eyes to the vast possibilities beyond her hometown. As A teen, Dr. A’Cire’s family relocated to Decatur, Georgia, in the mid-80s. This transition further expanded her horizons and exposed her to a world of opportunity beyond what she had previously imagined. Her parents were often away from home, in her youth and teenage years, leaving a young A’Cire to assume responsibility for her siblings and nurture her innate caregiving instincts,  Even amidst her childhood struggles, her aspirations of becoming an award winning actress never faded. She recognized the importance of dreaming big and believing in one’s ability to manifest their desires.

Dr. A’Cire’s childhood was marked by turmoil and pain. Seeking refuge from her struggles, she turned to two sources of comfort—her supportive Aunt Mattie and the art of writing. “Since I didn’t have anyone to confide in, my only outlet was to write about what I was going through. Writing was a release and a means of destroying those painful memories,” she reveals. Despite hiding her most painful writings, her talent was recognized.  A young Dr. A’Cire was placed in advanced courses in school and won her first award in the 6th grade.  Dr. A’Cire won 3rd place in her middle school literary competition discovering her gift for storytelling.

A metamorphosis would take place in 1999 when Dr. A’Cire embarked on a journey of self-discovery and professional growth. Initially drawn to the world of radio, she quickly found success as a host and intern, honing her skills and expanding her horizons. Her innate “gift for gab” soon paved the way for opportunities in acting, where she found a new avenue for self-expression and empowerment. Through roles in films like “Make It Rain” Written and Produced by Dazz Dillinger (Rapper), and various television shows like “Hap and Leonard,” she found catharsis in portraying complex characters and sharing their stories. “I loved the fact that I could work with individuals that I had seen on television and in magazines. I was even more astonished that as a model the individuals I looked up to asked for my autograph. Acting and directing allow me to bring someone’s vision to life. ”

But Dr. A’Cire’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. In 2016, she faced a harrowing experience of domestic violence that shook her to her core. Despite the trauma and adversity, she emerged stronger, determined to turn her pain into purpose. “Even today I can still hear the harsh words of my abuse.  Today, those words no longer cause me fear or anxiety… they push me to strive even harder toward success,” she declares. Through her nonprofit organization, The Newby Advocacy 4 Women (NAW) (Newbyadvocacy4women.org), she seeks to empower women unjustly incarcerated due to defending themselves in domestic violence situations and those in need of assistance to support their families.

As Dr. A’Cire’s journey continues to unfold, her resilience and determination shine as beacons of hope and inspiration. Through her work in television, radio, literature, and advocacy, she has become a powerful voice for those who have faced adversity and injustice. Her story serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is light to be found and strength to be gained.

Broken she is not. As Dr.A’Cire shares her remarkable story in print and broadcast media and lends her unique voice to film and literary projects, Dr. A’Cire has proven she has weathered some turbulent times. And with each step forward, she inspires others to do the same. Dr. A’Cire discovered her true calling: to uplift and empower others. Even amidst her childhood aspirations of becoming an actress, she recognized the importance of dreaming big and believing in one’s ability to manifest their desires. Today, Dr. A’Cire stands as a testament to the transformative power of resilience and determination, holding advocacy for Women and their families dear to her heart. Dr. A’Cire is a certified Transformational Life Coach who teaches the power of manifestation and dreaming big to individuals who have lost hope while she exemplifies the profound impact of believing in oneself against all odds.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

Dr. A’Cire’s journey into the spotlight began with a memorable role as Lolita in rapper Daz Dillinger’s feature film “Make It Rain.” From there, she graced the screens of iconic shows like the Maury Povich show’s “Secret Crush” and Sundance T.V.’s “Hap and Leonard,” leaving an indelible mark with each performance. Beyond her on-screen talent, Dr. A’Cire’s versatility shines as she seamlessly transitions between roles as an extra, stand-in (notably for Cynthia Erivo on Season 3 of Genius Aretha), and behind-the-scenes powerhouse working with her friend Gerald Barkley (Gee-Bee Productions), Rza (Wu-Tang Clan) as the UPM for the “A Wu-Tang Experience: Live at Red Rocks Amphitheatre and upcoming film projects for Scottland Movie Group Inc.  Her dedication to storytelling extends to scripting, directing, and producing her own projects, showcasing her boundless creativity.

At the heart of her endeavors lies her captivating talk show, “Emerging Beyond with A’Cire,” broadcasted on Georgia’s Comcast Dekalb 25 television station. Through insightful interviews with luminaries like Civil Rights icon Elizabeth Omilami, Paralympian Curtis Lovejoy, and Mason Pryor, she elevates voices and sparks meaningful conversations.
With her magnetic presence and unparalleled talent, Dr. A’Cire is not just a performer but a visionary storyteller shaping the landscape of entertainment. Dr. A’Cire currently hosts her Radio Show “The A’Cire Show” on all podcasting platforms, Dr. A’Cire not only writes scripts but has written several books and has articles featured in various print media magazines and editorials Her current book is titled “Camouflaged Life” and is available on Amazon.

At the heart of everything Dr. A’Cire has achieved, leaving a legacy that her children can be proud of is what matters most. When the opportunity came to be a part of history, she didn’t hesitate to say yes. In the illustrious Prince Hall Masonic Temple building on Auburn Avenue, nestled within the historical Atlanta, Georgia district lies a beacon of African-American history and resilience—WERD radio. Steeped in the rich tapestry of the civil rights movement, WERD holds a special place in the annals of broadcasting. Its headquarters cohabitated with the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, formed in 1957 under the leadership of Martin Luther King Jr., and served as the epicenter of activism and advocacy. It’s said that Dr. King would tap the ceiling of the SCLC office (just below WERD) with a broomstick to signal he had an announcement to make. A microphone from the studio window would be lowered to Dr. King at the window below so that he could make his on-air announcement.

For Dr. A’Cire, a luminary in her own right, the opportunity to contribute to the revitalization of WERD radio is nothing short of surreal. “Where would black radio be if not for the pioneers who dared to defy the barriers of racism?” she muses, reflecting on the station’s profound impact on African-American culture and advocacy. It’s a sentiment shared by many, as WERD’s storied history intertwines with the fabric of the National Black Radio Hall of Fame. Dr. A’Cire is a member of The National Black Radio Hall of Fame Atlanta Chapter.

As Dr. A’Cire embarks on this historic endeavor to be a part of the next phase of WERD history, she is guided by a sense of duty and reverence for those who paved the way before her. Collaborating with esteemed individuals like “Hurricane” Dave Smith, UniverSoul Circus Ringmaster Casual Cal, and Marsha Washington George. Marsha Washington George known as “Radio Lady” is the niece of Ken Knight, one of the first black radio DJs. Dr. A’Cire endeavors as the Community Consulting Director is to ensure that WERD’s legacy endures in the digital age. Dr. A’Cire’s involvement as one of the team members on the WERD revitalization into television and podcasting project holds a special significance. It’s a testament to her commitment to preserving African-American heritage and amplifying marginalized voices—a mission that resonates deeply with the ethos of WERD radio.

One would think with so much success the path in entertainment was easy.  Not so, the path to success hasn’t been without its challenges. Dr. A’Cire’s ascent in the entertainment industry was met with obstacles and setbacks, yet her unwavering determination and resilience propelled her forward. Through perseverance and unwavering dedication, she overcame each hurdle, emerging stronger and more determined than ever.

Along the way, Dr. A’Cire learned valuable lessons that have shaped her journey. She discovered the power of collaboration and community, recognizing that true progress is achieved through collective effort. Her experiences have taught her the importance of honoring the past while embracing the opportunities of the future, a principle she embodies in her work with WERD Radio, The National Black Radio Hall of Fame Atlanta Chapter, and her multiple business endeavors.

As Dr. A’Cire’s (The Real A’Cire to some in the entertainment industry) journey unfolds, one thing remains clear—her passion for preserving African-American heritage and amplifying marginalized voices knows no bounds. Through her remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication, she embodies the spirit of resilience and determination, inspiring others to pursue their dreams and make a difference in the world. She continues to make strides in her career, earning accolades like the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and the Distinguished Community Service Award, Congressional awards, and many others. Dr. A’Cire is the Owner of TRA Renewed Mind Coaching and Consulting, Paralegal Assist Inc., and several online businesses.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.

I love to find new places to go and just be alone with my thoughts but there are those times when I enjoy a good meal and meeting new people. When I want to be alone, one of my favorite places is Blood Mountain. The drive is about 1 hour and 40 minutes from Atlanta. Blood Mountain is the highest peak on the Georgia section of the Appalachian Trail. I love going there so much that the trail inspired a painting of mine!

One of my favorite restaurants in Atlanta is Hal’s Steakhouse! I am a pescatarian, so I always go for the Swordfish Steak! The atmosphere is nice and the service has always been amazing!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

I owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to my family whose unwavering support has fueled my aspirations and emboldened me to pursue my dreams fearlessly. Their constant encouragement echoes in my mind, “What is it that you can’t do?”—a mantra that propels me forward in the face of adversity. They are my rock, my cheerleaders, always standing by my side.

Additionally, I am profoundly grateful to the individuals who have played pivotal roles in my educational journey. Martial Arts Champion Dr. John Williams exemplifies unwavering support, guiding me through the challenges of earning my Doctorate Degree, even during personal trials that would have deterred others. His belief in my potential never wavered, serving as a beacon of strength during trying times.

Special recognition is also due to Dr. Rashad Richey, esteemed host of “Indisputable with Rashad Richey” on TYT and President of Rolling Out Magazine. Dr. Richey’s mentorship and similar upbringing in Decatur, GA, fostered a deep understanding of our community’s needs. His generous sponsorship of my paralegal course at UGA, driven by our mutual desire to assist homeless women and their families, is a testament to his compassion and dedication to making a tangible difference. I am profoundly grateful for his support, recognizing the ripple effect it will have in transforming lives through legal advocacy.

Website: therealacire.com

Instagram: thereal_dracire

Linkedin: The Real (Dr. A’Cire) A’Cire

Facebook: The Real Dr. A’Cire

Youtube: The A’Cire Show

Other: The A’Cire Show Podcast on all Podcasting Stations

Image Credits
Main Photo Only: Photo Cred: Dwaine GO

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