🚨 Besa Gordon Launches New FOX Local App TV Commercial

Back2BesaQueens of Converge
Written By Besa Gordon

Written by Besa Gordon - When I launched Back2Besa last year, what was important to me was that one, we uplifted our stories not only from Seattle but all across the region and two, that this show, Back2Besa, was always free and accessible to everyone everywhere, no matter their situation, that way, they can see what I see daily, the beauty, the excellence, and the reliance of our communities across the Pacific Northwest.

Why?... Access to positive images of us is important and necessary, as representation always matters.

So look, no matter where you live—be it the Central District or Centralia, Bellevue or Boise, Portland or Pullman, or anywhere across the country—I want you to join me on this Back2Besa journey by downloading the free FOX Local App on your phone or smart TV. Together, we can elevate the very best of us in our communities.

You'll be able to see what I see, and you will know that our story is amazing and that this uplift is always real.

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How The Trap Lab Is Changing the Fitness Game in Federal Way
How The Trap Lab Is Changing the Fitness Game in Federal Way

The Trap Lab in Federal Way isn’t your average fitness studio—it’s a whole vibe and a safe space. Founded by sisters Icea Pettigrew and Sharde Bullard, this Black woman-owned studio blends culture, community, and movement in a way that hits different.

Originally starting as pop-ups, The Trap Lab is now four years strong with a brick-and-mortar home—and it’s more than just workouts. Their slogan, “Switch Up the Formula,” is a full-on mission to prioritize emotional, physical, and mental wellness in a space that feels like family.

One of their most popular offerings? Line dancing with Jacqueline Herrera aka “Royal Woman.” Her classes stay sold out and bring in a crowd that’s ready for fun, joy, and community.

But it doesn’t stop there. They’ve partnered with local businesses and wellness pros like Charcuterie Chicc, PYC Sweets Wine Bar, and therapist Tawanna Wilson to offer everything from sound baths to fitness challenges. They even make space for youth with the Phenomenal She dance team and stream classes through their app.

What makes The Trap Lab so special? It’s run with love and built with the help of the community—literally. It’s a space where folks from Seattle to Everett come to heal, grow, and feel seen.

📍 1646 SW Dash Point Rd, Suite A, Federal Way
🔗 www.traplabstudio.com

Besa Gordon Honored at the First Trailblazing Black Women in Washington State Brunch
Besa Gordon Honored at the First Trailblazing Black Women in Washington State Brunch

I had the honor of attending the first-ever Trailblazing Black Women in Washington State brunch hosted by the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle Guild. It took place at the Northwest African American Museum, right in the heart of Seattle’s Central District—and let me just say, the energy in that room was filled with joy, sisterhood, and celebration.

On March 30, 2025, I had the honor of attending the first-ever Trailblazing Black Women in Washington State brunch hosted by the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle Guild. It took place at the Northwest African American Museum, right in the heart of Seattle’s Central District—and let me just say, the energy in that room was filled with joy, sisterhood, and celebration.

The event was inspired by Marilyn Morgan’s book Black Women Trailblazers of Washington State, and it beautifully paired historical figures with women who are walking in their legacy today. It was so powerful to see leaders like Michelle Merriweather, Dr. Elizabeth Wako, Councilmember Joy Hollingsworth, and Dr. Sarah Pritchett-Goodman being honored for their work in community leadership, healthcare, politics, and education. Marilyn Morgan herself was also honored, and seeing her celebrated as the featured author was such a full-circle moment.

And y’all… I was recognized as one of the five Women to Watch! I was in amazing company alongside activist and entrepreneur Chardonnay Beaver, Keisha Credit, Nicole Bascomb-Green, and Jazmyn Scott. When Seattle Guild President Collette Robinson said, “We wanted them to know that we see you. Our eyes are on you,” I genuinely felt that. It’s one thing to do the work, but it hits different when your community says, “We see you, and we’re proud of you.”

The whole day felt like a family reunion. There were so many warm hugs, laughs, and moments of deep gratitude. One person said, “It felt like a big hug,” and honestly, I couldn’t agree more. I was surrounded by aunties, mentors, and new friends—and I left with my heart full.

Another beautiful moment? The official proclamation of March 30 as Trailblazing Black Women in Washington State Day. That alone gives me chills. Knowing this celebration will continue every year means that even more incredible women will get their flowers while they can still smell them.

As Tina-Marie Moore said that day, “Our youth is our future. We have to keep bringing each person into the forefront so no one is forgotten.” That message stuck with me—and reminded me why we do what we do.

From Streetwear to Scoops: Back2Besa Pops Up at ETC
From Streetwear to Scoops: Back2Besa Pops Up at ETC

Have you checked out the new ETC Tacoma? If not, you're missing out friend! So check this out, what started as a fire launch for their Dream Team Series turned into a surprise pop-up with yours truly, and FOX 13 Seattle, as we gave out free scoops of my Molly Moon’s vegan cookies & cream flavor to anyone the signed up for the free FOX Local app.

Have you checked out the new ETC Tacoma? If not, you're missing out friend! So check this out, what started as a fire launch for their Dream Team Series turned into a surprise pop-up with yours truly, and FOX 13 Seattle, as we gave out free scoops of my Molly Moon’s vegan cookies & cream flavor to anyone the signed up for the free FOX Local app. 

Campfire Coffee slid through too with the caffeine boost, so folks were warm, fed, and fly in their new ETC gear 🧢🍨☕️

The Dream Team pieces flew like hotcakes (as they should). ETC really put on for Tacoma with this one and it was big on quality, big on community, and big on pride for the 253.

Also, if you haven’t downloaded the FOX Local app yet… Deff going to need you to do that. You can stream Back2Besa anytime, anywhere in the nation, for FREE. It's time to get tapped in friend.

Major love to Umi and Grayson for always showing love and letting us be part of their dope Spring launch. Thank you to Molly Moon's for supplying the ice cream and Campfire Coffee to bringing the caffeine boost.

And shoutout to everyone I met that watches the show! It's always a shoomd when I get to meet you in person, take pics, and actually chop it up.

Have you checked out the ETC Tacoma Spring line yet?

Seattle AI House Is Here — And It’s Centering Inclusion in Tech
Seattle AI House Is Here — And It’s Centering Inclusion in Tech

This week I had the chance to stop by @fox13seattle’s Good Day Seattle to talk about the grand opening of AI House — a brand new AI startup incubator on Pier 70 right here on the Seattle Waterfront.

Today I made my weekly appearance on FOX 13 Seattle’s Good Day Seattle to talk about the grand opening of AI House — a brand new AI startup incubator on Pier 70 right here on the Seattle Waterfront.

Now y’all know I love tech, but what really caught my attention about AI House is that it’s not just about launching cool startups. It’s about who gets to be in the room. Built in partnership with the City of Seattle Office of Economic Development, the Washington State Department of Commerce, Ada Developers Academy, and AI2 Incubator, this space is all about inclusion, innovation, and opportunity.

During my segment, I talked about how Ada Developers Academy has helped over 1,300 women in the Seattle area land careers in tech and AI — not just jobs, but real careers that are changing lives. I also got to share my experience using Yoodli, which is basically an AI coach for public speaking. I tried it the other day and found out just how many filler words I use 😅 But hey, growth is growth!

What I really love is how AI House is making space for people who are usually left out of tech. I even mentioned something as simple as soap dispensers not working for folks with darker skin — that’s what happens when we’re not part of the design or testing process. Inclusion matters, not just for fairness, but for functionality.

You can catch the full segment on this weekend’s episode of Back2Besa — Saturday at 10:30 p.m. on FOX 13, Sunday at 10 a.m. on FOX 13+, or stream it anytime on the FOX Local app.

Seattle’s tech scene is evolving, and I’m here for it. Let’s make sure it includes everybody.

Besa Gordon
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