From Child Star to Educator: The Inspiring Journey of Eugene Williams Episode 35 | The CJ Moneyway Show
Posted 6/7/24
Updated 10/25
In this episode of The CJ Moneyway Show, CJ sits down with Eugene Williams — a writer, educator, speaker, and former child actor whose extraordinary career has spanned stage, screen, and classroom.
Eugene’s life story is one of faith, focus, and fulfillment — a true example of building purpose brick by brick.
A Trailblazer on Stage and Screen
Eugene Williams made history in 1978 when he became the first Black child actor in a major recurring role on the CBS soap opera “Search For Tomorrow.”
At just 12 years old, he shared scenes with legendary talents including Bill Cosby, Ossie Davis, Pearl Bailey, Stephanie Mills, and Ray Charles — proving early on that he belonged among greatness.
But Eugene’s path was never just about fame. Even in the bright lights of television and theatre, he was drawn to the deeper power of stories — how they shape identity, inspire change, and reflect the human experience.
That early exposure to creativity and culture became the foundation for everything he would later do as a writer and educator.
💬 “I learned that every story, whether on stage or in a classroom, has the power to teach, heal, and connect us.” — Eugene Williams
From Actor to Author
After years in entertainment, Eugene transitioned his passion for storytelling into writing and education.
He has since authored six powerful books, including:
• It’s a Reading Thing… Help Your Child Understand
• The Raisin-in-Milk Syndrome
• Reflections of a Confused Middle-Class Black Youth
• Grounded in the Word — a groundbreaking SAT verbal prep guide that cross-references vocabulary with words from the King James Bible
His works bridge culture, education, and personal growth — helping readers understand not just how to learn, but why it matters.
Eugene’s writing has been featured in JET, Black Excellence, The Washington Post, The Washington Times, The Miami Herald, and more. His perspectives have reached national audiences through appearances on NBC, CBS, CNN, and BET, where he continues to advocate for literacy, leadership, and legacy.
The Heart of an Educator
Beyond his public recognition, Eugene Williams has dedicated nearly three decades to public education.
His career includes service as a teacher, assistant principal, and high school principal across Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.
As an educator, he’s helped thousands of students discover their voice and potential. He believes reading and communication aren’t just academic skills — they’re the keys to empowerment.
His impact reaches beyond classrooms, shaping future leaders and thinkers one student at a time.
💬 “If you can master words, you can master the world.” — Eugene Williams
A Legacy of Leadership and Family
Eugene’s story is also one of family and faith.
He lives in Central Virginia with his wife, Jewel, a retired elementary school principal who shares his commitment to education and service. Their daughter, Paige, continues the family’s legacy of excellence with a Master’s in Journalism from Georgetown University.
Together, they represent what it means to build generational success — grounded in purpose, education, and love.
Lessons from a Life of Purpose
Eugene’s journey reminds us that success isn’t about how many stages you stand on — it’s about how many lives you touch.
From child star to educator to author, he’s proven that talent may open doors, but character keeps them open.
His message to listeners is simple yet profound:
embrace your gifts, honor your story, and never stop learning.
🎧 Listen to “From Child Star to Educator: The Inspiring Journey of Eugene Williams” on The CJ Moneyway Show — and hear how one man turned passion into purpose, fame into faith, and learning into a lifelong legacy.
Connect With CJ Moneyway: Let's Start a Conversation
From vision to legacy — we build powerful stories, one brick at a time.
At CJ Moneyway Entertainment, we believe every big idea deserves a platform. We partner with filmmakers, authors, podcasters, and media innovators to transform concepts into impactful projects — from feature films and documentary series to books, podcasts, and branded storytelling campaigns.
Whether you’re crafting your first documentary, writing your next book, or launching a media project with global potential, we help you share stories that inspire and endure.
Your vision. Our expertise. Story by story — brick by brick.
⚠️ Important Note:
CJ Moneyway Entertainment is a creative development and media collaboration platform. We do not operate as a traditional publishing house or provide formal distribution services. Our focus is on helping creators shape and build compelling stories; partners are responsible for securing their own publishing or distribution channels.