In our fifth episode of Something Genuine, we sit down with Willow Newell, a history-making titleholder, musical theater graduate, mental health advocate—and longtime anime fan!
OCD, Ouran, and the Art of Belonging
Willow became the first Black woman ever crowned Miss Wisconsin. But as she shares in this episode, the journey from her crowning moment to competing at Miss America in September was a whirlwind. Fifty appearances. Media attention. Community events. Little time to breathe.
“I realized I got whiplash,” she says candidly.
Willow shares the non-stop experience and so much more, including her battle with OCD (and how therapy has helped); being one of the “weird kids” and how it led her to discovering Ouran High School Host Club; her initiative, “The Art of Belonging,” and her passion to create stories; and how sharing her love for Howl’s Moving Castle helped her connect during a pageant!
And so much more!
Check it all out on episode five of Something Genuine!
Looking Ahead
At just 22, Willow has already graduated with a degree in musical theater and is looking forward to earning a master’s degree in film. Her dream? To write and direct films—and maybe one day create her own manga?!
It’s a fitting ambition for someone who believes storytelling can heal.
Follow Willow and Join Us
Willow’s episode is a reminder that crowns don’t eliminate OCD and other struggles. Success doesn’t erase struggle. And authenticity often opens more doors than polish ever could.
Watch the full conversation now and join us in celebrating a story that bridges pageantry, fandom, and courage. Please follow us on YouTube and keep up with the series—there’s only one more episode left this season!
And please follow Willow on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube!
