Sheila Johnson’s Trailblazing Journey in Media and Hospitality
SHEILA JOHNSON named her second entrepreneurial venture Salamander Hotels & Resorts, reflecting her life journey.
In Roman mythology, salamanders are believed to walk through fire unscathed and regenerate their limbs. Her resilience in overcoming obstacles – such as a turbulent family life and career challenges – embodies this spirit.
Her entrepreneurial journey began with a pioneering role in the media industry as the co-founder of Black Entertainment Television, the first network dedicated to African American audiences. BET quickly gained recognition for its impact on Black media representation and became a significant cultural platform. Her success with BET, alongside her then-husband Robert L. Johnson, Sheila reshaped the media landscape.
“I felt we squandered an opportunity to bring forth the African American voice in a meaningful way, beyond just music videos and award ceremonies,” Sheila told Hemispheres magazine. “BET needed to make a statement and establish itself as a genuine platform for African American issues. There could have been more balance.”
BET’s success led to its sale to Viacom in 2001 for $3 billion, making Sheila the first Black female billionaire in the U.S. However, her personal life faced challenges, including a divorce in 2002, which coincided with her departure from the network.
Sheila had to redefine herself beyond the company she helped build, a period marked by self-reflection and exploration of new opportunities. She chose the hospitality industry, seeing it as a field where she could innovate and contribute to community development and economic growth.
“I was at a crossroads in my life and needed to leave D.C.,” Sheila recalls. “One day, while traveling with my daughter past a farm with a stunning view of the Blue Ridge Mountains, I thought, ‘This is where I want to live.’”
In the early 2000s, she acquired a 340-acre property in Middleburg, VA, laying the foundation for the Salamander Collection. However, her goal was to develop it into a luxury resort that would attract visitors and boost the local economy. This vision led to the opening of Salamander Resort & Spa in 2013, which quickly gained acclaim for its service, guest experiences and wellness focus.
Salamander Resort & Spa became a cornerstone of Middleburg’s economic revival and a cultural hub, hosting events such as the Middleburg Film Festival and performances by the American Ballet Theatre. The five-star property earned the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star honor for its resort, spa and restaurant, placing it among the few properties globally to receive such a distinction.
Sheila’s success with Salamander Resort & Spa led to an expanded hospitality portfolio, emphasizing high-quality service and a welcoming atmosphere. Salamander Hotels & Resorts now includes properties across the U.S. and the Caribbean, such as Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club, Half Moon Jamaica, and Aspen Meadows Resort. Additionally, Salamander Washington, D.C., opened in the Penn Quarter neighborhood in 2018.
Sheila’s entry into hospitality was marked by her determination to overcome obstacles and learn from her experiences. In her memoir, “Walk Through Fire: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and Triumph,” she candidly addresses personal and professional challenges, including her divorce and betrayals from those she trusted. The book highlights her resilience, showcasing her ability to turn setbacks into opportunities for growth.
In addition to her success in hospitality, Sheila has made significant strides in sports ownership. She became the first Black woman with a principal share in three professional teams: the Washington Capitals (NHL), the Washington Wizards (NBA) and the Washington Mystics (WNBA).
Her involvement in sports ownership reflects her broader commitment to diversity and inclusion, advocating for greater representation and creating opportunities for women and people of color in professional sports.
Throughout her career, Sheila has stressed the importance of diversity and inclusion in her businesses and broader industries. She has been a vocal advocate for creating pathways to leadership and ownership for African Americans in hospitality and other sectors. She views diversity as both a matter of fairness and a driver of innovation and excellence, evident in her hiring practices and the inclusive culture at Salamander Hotels & Resorts.
Her achievements in hospitality and sports are complemented by her philanthropic efforts. She supports education, health care, and the arts, focusing on opportunities for underrepresented communities. Sheila has donated significant resources to causes that align with her values, extending her commitment to making a positive impact and creating a lasting legacy beyond her business success.
Her leadership style is collaborative and inclusive. She emphasizes teamwork and lifelong learning, surrounding herself with talented individuals and fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute.
Sheila continues to advocate for greater representation and opportunities for African Americans across all sectors, including hospitality.
She acknowledges the progress made but emphasizes that much work remains to ensure equal opportunities for success. She remains focused on expanding the Salamander brand and driving innovation in the hospitality industry.
Sheila is actively involved in daily operations, ensuring each property upholds Salamander Hotels & Resorts' high standards. She is also enthusiastic about new projects and renovations, including updates to Salamander Washington, D.C.. and the development of branded residences at Salamander Resort & Spa in Middleburg.
