The paper reports that Simmons' colleagues include "confidantes, fierce gatekeepers, dating coaches, spiritual advisers, philanthropic czars, business liaisons and more." The show will be developed by Simmons Lathan Media Group, which was also behind HBO's long-running Def Comedy Jam, as well as Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry and MTV's Run's House, along with Picture This TV.

Simmons brought his Def Poetry Jam to Broadway in 2002. The show went on to win the 2003 Tony Award for Best Special Theatrical Event.