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My Portfolio
Welcome to my portfolio. Here you’ll find a selection of my work as a journalist, producer, writer and creative. Explore my projects to learn more about what I do.
Print Journalism
Issa Rae’s Hoorae Media Sets First Microdrama Series ‘Screen Time’ in TikTok Content Deal | Exclusive
Raquel secured and covered exclusive details about creative Issa Rae's venture into microdramas with TikTok during TheWrap tenure.
With DEI Rollbacks, the Business of Hollywood May Take a Hit
Raquel's NAEJ award-winning article examines how major Hollywood studios have scaled back their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives amid political pressure following President Donald Trump's return to office. It explores concerns from academics, advocates, and industry leaders who argue that retreating from DEI efforts could have long-term business consequences by alienating increasingly diverse audiences and limiting opportunities for underrepresented creators. The story also highlights research suggesting that diverse casts and creative teams often contribute to stronger audience engagement and box office performance, while placing Hollywood's changing approach to DEI within the broader political and corporate landscape.
After ‘Quiet on Set’ Revelations, Is Hollywood Doing Enough to Protect Child Actors?
Following the "Quiet on Set" documentary, this article examines whether Hollywood is doing enough to protect child actors from systemic abuse and toxic work environments. It explores calls for stricter industry regulations and improved safety protocols for minors.
BIPOC Writers Say Their Struggle for Equity Continues After the WGA Strike Ends
During the 2023 writers-actors strikes, Raquel performed on-the-street interviews at the picket lines and reported on how BIPOC writers continue to face systemic inequities in Hollywood regarding representation and upward mobility following the WGA strike. It highlights that issues such as the racial wage gap and a lack of diverse decision-makers require ongoing advocacy beyond broader union achievements.
‘Devil in Disguise’ Creator Says Peacock Series Proves You Don’t Have to Choose Between Entertainment and Humanity | How I Did It
"Devil in Disguise" creator Patrick Macmanus explains to Raquel how the Peacock true-crime series balances entertainment with humanity by focusing on victims rather than graphic violence. Featured in TheWrap's How I Did It series, Macmanus highlights that the narrative prioritizes respectful storytelling and explores systemic failures over sensationalizing the serial killer.
Tamron Hall Was ‘Determined to Prove People Wrong’ After ‘Today’ Show Exit: ‘And Probably in an Unhealthy Way’ (Video)
In an intimate interview with Raquel, Tamron Hall detailed how her abrupt 2017 exit from NBC’s "Today" show sparked an intense, sometimes "unhealthy" drive to prove her value in the media industry. The interview highlights her determination to combat perceptions of disposability and empower women, fueling the success of her own daytime talk show.
How Crunchyroll Is Beating the Competition in Anime Streaming – Even Netflix
Crunchyroll maintains a dominant position in anime streaming by focusing exclusively on the medium and integrating deeply within the Japanese production system. While competitors like Netflix invest heavily, experts indicate they lack Crunchyroll's specialized ecosystem and library depth.
Oprah Winfrey’s Go-To Reality TV Producer Carlos King Says a Show’s Success ‘Lives and Dies’ by Its Cast
Raquel profiles mega producer Carlos King for TheWrap's interview series "Office With the View," where states that reality TV success depends entirely on casting, emphasizing the need for authentic, dynamic talent similar to a championship NBA team. He notes that without the right on-screen talent to engage viewers, a show cannot succeed.
We Asked Black Americans: How Safe Do You Feel Two Years After George Floyd’s Murder? Here Are Their Answers
Raquel co-curated an exclusive Harris Poll for Forbes that indicates that while a majority of Black Americans feel safe two years after George Floyd’s murder, one-third feel less secure, primarily due to racism and policing concerns. Furthermore, the data reveals a significant mental health toll, with 63% of respondents reporting an impact from racism.
Family Behind Hit YouTube Children's Series ‘Gracie’s Corner’ Says Longer Form Videos Are ‘In The Works’
The Hollingsworth family is expanding their popular educational YouTube series, "Gracie’s Corner," to include longer-form, story-driven content. The series focuses on creating diverse and engaging musical educational videos for children.
‘Shark Tank’ Cast Says They Are ‘Heartbroken’ Over Mark Cuban’s Decision to Leave: ‘I Hope I’ll Get Over It’
Raquel interviews Mark Cuban as he takes his last dive in the shark, his cast mates bid their final farewell.
Kerry Washington and Pilar Savone Say the Secret to Simpson Street Is Making Projects That Are ‘Undeniable’
Raquel discusses the legacy, purpose and future plans of Kerry Washington and Pilar Savone's Simpson Street
Video and On-Camera Journalism
Moderating
Press Junkets
Red Carpets & On-the-Street Interviews
My Work in a Snapshot
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