Editorial Director, Lisa Baldwin and Ms. Irma P. Hall

 Irma P. Hall, lovingly and reverently known as Big Mama of Soul Food. The film was a box office hit which prompted the television spin-off, Soul Food: The Series. Ms. Hall has appeared in numerous films including Tyler Perry's Meet the Browns, Ladykillers, Collateral and television shows since the 1970s. She is best known for playing matriarchal roles in  films. Empowered Magazine’s Editorial Director, Lisa Baldwin sat down for an intimate conversation with Ms. Hall.

Lisa Baldwin: Since Mother’s Day is just around the corner, can you tell Empowered readers what it means to be a mother.

Ms. Hall: It’s a daunting task, that should be enjoyed everyday. You musn’t miss any aspect of your child’s development as the moment can’t be recaptured. You are your child’s very first teacher.

Lisa Baldwin: Who or what prepared you for the big screen?

Ms. Hall: My parents, they instilled in me to do my personal best. They never told me to be better than anyone, but always strive for MY personal excellence.

Lisa Baldwin: Why acting as a career?

Ms. Hall: I have taught as a teacher for over 27 years in Dallas Public Schools. I believe acting is teaching, but in a different way. The many lives that you can mold and direct by each role you take on.  One of the reasons I loved playing motherly roles was to allow my audiences to travel with me and never forget the roles I have played.

Lisa Baldwin: Mission accomplished, I absolutely loved you in Soul Food, so endearing!!!

Lisa Baldwin: Anything else you want to say, so you can get on to your next set location?

Ms. Hall: You don’t have to give birth to be a mother, and what a blessing for me to be blessed with 2 children and the promotion of becoming grandmother, and my next promotion of great-grandmother.

Cherish everyday as if it were your last!!! Because each day fills your soul food to grow on!!!