On last night’s special edition of The Pop-Up! at the Colman Commons Backstage, host Keisha Credit welcomed Emerald City icon and Ezell’s Famous Chicken co-founder and owner Lewis Rudd to honor a monumental 42-year legacy of Black business ownership, resilience, and community advocacy.

From sharing the origin story of an Emerald City food staple to reflecting on Ezell’s historic role as Converge Media’s very first client, Rudd dropped invaluable wisdom on his foundational "4 D’s"—Discipline, Determination, Dedication, and Desire—and details how the Rudd’s R.U.B.B. Initiative continues to empower local entrepreneurs.

Joined by Converge family and friends for an unforgettable evening of unity, fresh merch, and storytelling, this episode is a heart-filled celebration of a hometown hero whose enduring impact continues to uplift the entire Pacific Northwest.