Inside the Journey of Two Trailblazing Women: How Angela Bell and Joyce Riggs Brought the FBI to the Game Table
Representation in leadership isn’t just symbolic — it shapes culture, inspires communities, and opens doors for future generations. Few stories capture this truth as powerfully as the journey of Angela Bell and Joyce Riggs, two African American women who spent decades shaping the public face of the FBI before stepping into
entrepreneurship with a mission: to educate, connect, and spark conversation.
Their creation, the award winning card game How Much Do You Really Know?®, didn’t begin as a business idea. It began with a moment of disbelief.
A Spark Born on January 6th
While watching the Capitol insurrection unfold, Bell and Riggs heard a local reporter incorrectly claim that FBI agents were patrolling FBI Headquarters. That single comment made them pause and ask a simple but powerful question:
“How much do people really know about the FBI?” (“That single comment made us pause and ask ourselves, how much do people really know about the FBI?”)
That question became the foundation for a game that blends education, entertainment, and real world insight into the Bureau’s history, responsibilities, and culture. With nearly 70 years of combined experience in the FBI’s Office of Public Affairs, the two women transformed their expertise into a tool that brings people together —across generations, backgrounds, and perspectives.
Their game has since earned a 2026 Gold Award from the Mom’s Choice Awards, a testament to its impact and accessibility.
Challenging Assumptions — One Conversation at a Time
When people discover that Bell and Riggs actually worked for the FBI, the reaction is almost always the same: surprise.
“Popular media rarely portrays the FBI as two African American women.” (“Many people assume we must have been special agents… encountering two African American women who worked there can be surprising simply because we don’t match the media narrative.”)
Instead of frustration, they see these moments as opportunities — chances to educate the public about the wide range of roles within the Bureau and to show that representation matters. Their presence alone challenges stereotypes, and their game amplifies that message even further.
The Funniest Mistake They Made Starting Out
Like many first time entrepreneurs, Bell and Riggs dove into their project with passion — and maybe a little too much improvisation.
They designed, produced, and packaged their game with confidence… until retailers started asking about margins, contracts, and wholesale terms. Suddenly, they realized they had launched a product without understanding the basics of selling one.
“We walked out laughing at how unprepared we were, but also slightly horrified…” (“We froze like deer in headlights… We walked out laughing at how unprepared we were.”)
The lesson? Start — but prepare. Momentum matters, but knowledge keeps you from stumbling.
Why Diversity in the C-Suite Matters
Bell and Riggs are passionate advocates for diverse leadership, and their reasoning is grounded in lived experience:
- Broader perspectives lead to better decisions.
- Age diversity strengthens creativity and problem solving.
- Inclusive leadership creates healthier, more collaborative cultures.
Their own team has ranged from people in their 30s to their 80s — a multigenerational powerhouse that enriches every decision they make.
How Diversity Shapes Culture
A diverse executive team doesn’t just change a company — it changes the community around it.
“Representation matters — when African American employees and communities see themselves reflected in leadership; it inspires confidence and motivation.” (“Representation matters — when African American employees and communities see themselves reflected in leadership; it inspires confidence and motivation.”)
Diverse leaders bring cultural insight, empathy, and authenticity. They help organizations connect with broader audiences and create products that reflect real communities — like a card game that celebrates the FBI’s history through the lens of two Black women who lived it.
Three Ways to Address Diversity Gaps in Leadership
Bell and Riggs believe meaningful change requires long term commitment:
1. Invest early — mentorship, exposure, and leadership development starting in high school and college.
2. Create real culture change — not just policies, but daily practices that value inclusion.
3. Expand sponsorship and mentorship — because visibility and advocacy open doors that talent alone cannot.
What Leadership Really Means
For Bell and Riggs, leadership is about empowerment.
“A strong leader doesn’t micromanage — they create an environment where employees feel comfortable asking questions, taking ownership, and even making mistakes.” (“A strong leader doesn’t micromanage — they create an environment where employees feel comfortable asking questions, taking ownership, and even making mistakes.”)
Their multigenerational team has shown them the power of listening, adapting, and embracing new ideas — even when they come from unexpected places.
Five Things They Wish They Knew Before Starting
Their hard earned wisdom reads like a roadmap for new entrepreneurs:
1. Don’t assume you must self publish. Crowdfunding could have saved them money.
2. Selling on Amazon is a fulltime job. It requires strategy, monitoring, and expertise.
3. Retailers prefer trusted reps. Cold calls often go unanswered.
4. Don’t compare your journey to others. You never know their resources.
5. Consistency beats excuses. Showing up — even when it’s hard — is everything.
The Movement They Want to Inspire
If they could spark a global movement, it would be one centered on intentional human connection.
In a world dominated by screens, they believe in bringing people back to the table — literally. Their card game is a tool for conversation, laughter, debate, and shared experience.
“Shared experiences create stronger bonds.” (“Card gaming naturally brings people together — around a table, face to face…”)
Their Guiding Life Lesson
They live by the Golden Rule:
“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
It shapes how they lead, how they build relationships, and how they show up in the world.
Their Dream Lunch Guest
If they could sit down with anyone, it would be Tyler Perry — a visionary who built an empire through creativity, discipline, and generosity. His journey mirrors the kind of impact they hope to make.
Where to Follow Their Work
Instagram, Facebook, X: @hmdyrkcardgame
Website: hmdyrkcardgame.com
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