We recently had the chance to connect with Emmanuel Simms and have shared our conversation below.
Emmanuel, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
For me, the first part of the day is about setting the tone. Usually, it starts with getting my kid up and moving—because if you’re a parent, you know that’s an adventure in itself. Breakfast is non-negotiable, and that time doubles as a reset for all of us before the day takes off.
After that, I like to take a few minutes to reflect on what I went over yesterday—what worked, what didn’t, and what I can carry forward. I’m a big fan of the 50-30-20 principle, so I’m always checking in with myself to make sure I’m balanced: 50% needs, 30% wants, 20% future. It keeps me honest about where my energy and attention are going.
It’s not glamorous—it’s kid chaos, coffee, and small resets—but it’s real. And honestly, that balance between being present at home and intentional with my goals is what keeps me grounded.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Emmanuel Simms, the founder of In Vivo Exposure, a Black-owned, disabled-owned, women-run creative tech company that blends storytelling, media, and innovation to spark healing and connection. At the heart of what I do is the belief that creativity can be medicine—whether that’s through a movement like Cosplay Healing Theory, a mental health and self-expression initiative, or through building platforms where stories and commerce meet in new, engaging ways.
What makes my work unique is that I don’t just see projects as “projects”—I see them as ecosystems. Everything I build has layers: a social mission, a creative spark, and a practical path to make it sustainable. I’m not afraid to pull from different worlds—film, tech, wellness, entrepreneurship—and remix them into something fresh and meaningful.
Right now, I’m focused on scaling Cosplay Healing Theory, which blends fandom, wellness, and performance into a powerful space for people to heal and express themselves. At the same time, I’m developing new media projects and helping others bring their stories to life.
At the end of the day, my brand is about making people feel seen, connected, and empowered. I want the work I put into the world to feel like sitting down with an old friend—real, inspiring, and a little bit unexpected.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
My mentor and friend Brandon T. Jackson taught me the most about work. He’s got over 18 years in the film game, and from the start, he showed me what it really takes to build a brand and take it to the next level. What I took from him wasn’t just about talent—it was about consistency, discipline, and understanding that hard work isn’t optional if you want to create something lasting.
He also impressed on me that this industry isn’t just about the spotlight—it’s a business. The show is the business. That perspective changed the way I approached my own work, helping me see the bigger picture of sustainability, ownership, and creating opportunities beyond just one project.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There were years when I struggled with suicidal ideation—times when giving up felt like a daily temptation. It wasn’t just a fleeting thought; it was something I carried with me every single day. But in the middle of that darkness, I held on to resilience. Deep down, I knew I couldn’t give up. I had a purpose.
One thought that kept me grounded was this: if the clouds have a role—just to sit up in the sky, drifting and existing—then I knew I had a job to do too. My life had meaning, even if I couldn’t see it clearly in the moment. That perspective became my anchor and reminded me that my story wasn’t finished yet.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Whose ideas do you rely on most that aren’t your own?
Honestly, my wife, Yazmin. She’s the person I trust to give me perspective when I’m too deep in my own head. She has this way of grounding me—reminding me of what really matters, whether that’s family, balance, or just taking a breath before the next big move.
I also lean a lot on the wisdom of the people who came before me. Thinkers, artists, and spiritual voices who understood resilience and creativity long before I stepped into this space. Their ideas remind me that what I’m building isn’t just about me—it’s part of a much bigger conversation about healing, expression, and purpose.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
I’d stop overcommitting to things that don’t align with my purpose. Too often, I’ve said “yes” to projects or people out of obligation, even when I knew they weren’t feeding my spirit. If I only had 10 years left, I’d cut that noise out completely.
Instead, I’d double down on what really matters—my family, my creativity, and the work that leaves a lasting impact. I wouldn’t waste time proving myself to anyone or trying to fit into spaces that weren’t built for me. Every moment would be intentional, every “yes” would be rooted in love, and every step would be toward building a legacy that outlives me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.invivoexposure.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eudaimoniatv/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmanuelsimms
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emmanuel.m.simms
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@EmmanuelOverTymeSimms
Image Credits
Photos with the green screen in the background, Chris Taylor the other ones Photod Credit to United Way of Central Maryland
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
