C'mon Son!

The last time we talked about singleness and dating on this show was 3 years ago (Ep 19: What We've Learned From Being Single)! But new developments have emerged...   Daree hates long-distance relationships (LDRs), but she unexpectedly met someone special on her last trip... and he lives on another continent. (It feels like he's in another galaxy far, far, away lol.)   Whether you're in a LDR now, or considering it, listen in as she gets some advice from Daj (whose had her own LDRs). We discussed how to deal with the circumstances, being wary of your emotional and financial investment in the LDR, and more:   Daree explains how her LDR came about (in Colombia) 4:10 Daj's 3-year relationship that turned from local to LDR (in Italy) 6:18 Overextending yourself and things to think about for LDRs 15:21 Being used when you appear to affluent or unaware 19:18 Daj's 2-year LDR & engagement  21:18 How to evaluate "where this is going" and decide if a LDR is right for you 28:37   Have you ever been in an LDR? How did it turn out? Let us know:   @thecmonsonpod thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Voicemail: 757-204-5495     Background: Daree's 2022 Colombia vlog

We're giving you all our favorite movies & shows, as well as pop, R&B, hip hop, Dance, Afrobeats and Reggaeton songs released in 2022. What were your faves?   What we loved watching: TV & Streaming Movies (19:03)   Songs: Pop (23:39) R&B (29:03) Afrobeats (33:23) House (33:48) Hip hop (34:46) Techno/Electronica/Dance (36:22) Latin/Reggaeton (40:34)   @thecmonsonpod thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com   Voicemail: 757-204-5495

Sometimes you make choices in life that others don't understand, like, or support.   Daj thought she would never be able to have her own biological children, and recently made an intentional decision to pursue motherhood without a partner. She shares her fertility journey thus far in this episode. We also talked about societal expectations, why some men become gynecologists, and how she's preparing herself for the inevitable naysayers.

We're back for Season 4 of the C'mon Son podcast, and we did the most this summer! We've got some stories and updates for ya.   Summer recap (including first-class treatment) 2:04 Observations after mom got a scooter 14:38 A primer on accessibility, disability, and inclusion 22:34     Resources The social model of disability (infographic) Lakefront Brewery pics on Daree's Instagram UX Content Collective Accessibility course - use the code uxwcadvanced25 for 25% off!

Daj shares an update on her weight loss (92 pounds and counting!), and unexpected physical and practical things she's dealing with during this process.   This is an update from episode 51: https://thecmonsonpod.libsyn.com/we-gon-use-wegovy-for-weight-loss     Reach out at: @thecmonsonpod thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Voicemail: 757-204-5495

Apparently May 21 was National Streaming Day. That's what Roku told us.   We decided to rant about the overwhelming streaming services (and piling fees) we encounter trying to keep with all the entertainment choices out there. The second half of the show is focused on Netflix, the one who started it all.       Reach out at: @thecmonsonpod thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Voicemail: 757-204-5495  

We FINALLY went to Havana, Cuba after a nearly 3-year wait. We're giving you our reflections about the Cuban culture and how life-changing it was to visit this island during the pandemic.     References: Friendly Planet Blog: Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Vlog     Reach out at: @thecmonsonpod thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Voicemail: 757-204-5495

In this episode, we reviewed the recent 2021 TrustRadius report about women in tech from a DEI perspective. We talked about 5 findings about upward mobility for women of color (particularly those who want to be promoted at work, but have too many barriers). We also discussed our personal thoughts about being promoted to management, and what that means for the work we currently enjoy.   References: TrustRadius report: https://www.trustradius.com/buyer-blog/women-in-tech-report  Productivity concerns working from home (3:40): https://thecmonsonpod.libsyn.com/return-to-work (episode 54) Name shame (8:00): https://www.instagram.com/p/CG4uT-LBPUD/       Reach out at: @thecmonsonpod thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Voicemail: 757-204-5495

Should employers dictate whether to go back to 100% f2f work or a hybrid model? Is it right/ethical to make people get vaxed in order to return to work? Are all those video meetings every day helping our productivity? Do companies actually implement feedback from those mandatory employee surveys?    We discussed all that, and more findings from this nice summary work-from-home report courtesy of HubSpot at https://www.hubspot.com/hubfs/HubSpot%202022%20Hybrid%20Work%20Report_FINAL.pdf   TechEquity Collaborative's Contract Worker Disparity Project: https://contractwork.techequitycollaborative.org/     Resistance to masks and vaccines - 3:04 The case (and the data) for getting vaccinated - 6:20 Daree's remote interview experience (17 years remote) - 11:24 Remote-first companies and the case for remote/hybrid work - 17:22 HubSpot hybrid work report 19:40 Microaggressions against Black people & survey feedback about the workplace 22:58 The effect of multiple video meetings on productivity 31:52     Reach out at: @thecmonsonpod thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Voicemail: 757-204-5495  

Daree talks about reaching the milestone of 10 years being a published author, and behind the scenes issues with self-publishing lessons learned. She also shares how to bounce back from the fallout from writing an honest memoir, and giving yourself permission to own your own experience regardless of how others feel about your written words.   Reference on where we talked about our 2022 goals: https://thecmonsonpod.libsyn.com/processing-2021-and-beyond   So What's Your Story? http://bit.ly/writeyourmemoir (self-publishing e-course) What Does Self-Love Look Like?: 10 Tell-tale Signs Self-love worksheet Book excerpt and book description Original Book Trailer Book launch video Some of Daree's struggles with self-publishing on the Blogger to Author podcast http://bit.ly/2pSMbUQ Daree talking about book launch parties and other things authors need to know on the Get Published podcast https://getpublishedpodcast.libsyn.com/website/daree-allen-hosting-book-launch-parties Kickin' it with Daree podcast - http://kickinitwithdaree.com/episode/10th-anniversary-books     Reach out to us at: @thecmonsonpod thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Voicemail: 757-204-5495

Daj planned not 1, but 2 trips in January for her 40th birthday! To the same place!   In this episode, we talk about "Phase 1" of the group trip to Vegas, and then Daree breaks down some birthday freebies you can get at some stores or restaurants near you (12:53).   Missed the weight loss and Wegovy breakdown? We got you here: https://thecmonsonpod.libsyn.com/we-gon-use-wegovy-for-weight   Reach out at: @thecmonsonpod thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Voicemail: 757-204-5495

Daj recounts her 2021 weight loss journey and success using Wegovy (available only by prescription). Daree is thinking about using it too! Listen to see why.     @thecmonsonpod thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Voicemail: 757-204-5495

We're spending the last episode of this year being reflective about our hopes and dreams for 2022 and beyond, including the best decisions we've made, and ways we've grown in 2021.    Reflection Q1 - 2:19 Reflection Q2 - 16:41 Reflection Q3 - 27:39     What are your plans, goals and new decisions for 2022? Let us know:   @thecmonsonpod thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Voicemail: 757-204-5495   Also mentioned: Aaliyah tribute at https://thecmonsonpod.libsyn.com/tribute-to-aaliyah-and-others-whose-dancing-changed-our-lives 

We're giving you all our favorite pop, R&B, hip hop, Christian, techno and LatinX songs, movies and shows released in 2021.  We had so much fun doing it last year. Let us know your pics!   Songs: Pop 2:18 R&B 5:35 Hip hop 10:10 Techno/Electronica/Dance 12:48 LatinX/Reggaeton 14:31 Christian 16:06   Movies (theater) 20:09   Shows: TV 23:36 Streaming 27:47     @thecmonsonpod thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com   Voicemail: 757-204-5495

We're talking about our Thanksgiving/Black Friday plans and predictions, complete with a rant about macaroni and cheese, and what to NOT put in it, and our declaration to avoid stores for the next 6 weeks.     We hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving with those you care about, and take advantage of the true meaning of this holiday.

We had a lot of feelings about Colin Kaepernick's new Netflix documentary. And--spoiler alert--we're sharing them.   CROWN Act: https://www.thecrownact.com/about     Reach out at: @thecmonsonpod thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Voicemail: 757-204-5495

In honor of Teacher's Day, we're sharing stories about our favorite and most memorable schoolteachers.  Shouts out to all the talented, dedicated teachers who are making a positive impact on their students every year!       Reach out to us at: @thecmonsonpod thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Voicemail: 757-204-5495

We're ba-aaack!  And we had a fun summer moving about the country, from NY to the Pacific NW and in-between.  

We'll see you in the fall! In the meantime, catch up on our episodes you've missed. Have a great summer.

Daj describes her less than stellar first experiences with trying to get a facial or two.       Massages and Spas (episode 20): http://thecmonsonpod.libsyn.com/adventures-at-massages-and-spas   @thecmonsonpod thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Voicemail: 757-204-5495

As we conclude our recap of the CrimeCon '21 true crime conference, we continue by breaking down the sessions we attended on that Saturday and Sunday.   Missed Part 1? Catch it at https://thecmonsonpod.libsyn.com/crimecon-21-recap-part-1    Daj referred to Episode 8 about sexual assault - listen at http://thecmonsonpod.libsyn.com/sexual-assault-and-whos-at-fault  

We attended CrimeCon for the first time, a true crime conference, held in Austin, TX from June 4-6, 2021. In Part 1 of this recap, we discuss general thoughts about the hotel, the conference itself, and a breakdown of the sessions we attended on that Friday.   General comments 1:45 Conference feedback 7:20 Friday session recaps 15:44     Justice for Libby (Facebook page that includes a sample letter to the AG of Missouri) - https://www.facebook.com/libbycas/

In honor of National Brisket Day (May 28), we had a little discussion about our journeys to a healthier weight, using Ketovore and medically-supervised diets.

May is National Foster Awareness month, so we're talking about how Daree's daughter was a target for trafficking, the connection between foster care and sex trafficking, and ways we help these causes.     Reach to us:   @thecmonsonpod thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Voicemail: 757-204-5495  

Reflecting on all that has changed since a year ago (lockdown), we're covering: People who resist wearing face masks Getting the COVID-19 vaccine even though Daree doesn't do shots Movies that now stream instead of being shown in theaters  Not 1, but 2 new cars for Daree  Working remotely and missing human interaction Virtual school Limited group exercise classes and capacity limits at the gym   @thecmonsonpod thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Voicemail: 757-204-5495

Issa culture roundup y'all!  We're talking about a few things that happened this month on the streams and interwebs:   Our thoughts on Oprah's interview with Harry & Meghan 3:45 Piers Morgan vs. Meghan 20:20  Sharon Osbourne defends Piers 24:04 Kirk Franklin & his son's toxic exchange 32:48 Sports announcer uses the N word 42:55 A review of Soliel Moon Frye's documentary, "Kid 90" 47:45     If you feel hopeless, there is help: call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.     @thecmonsonpod thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Voicemail: 757-204-5495  

It's a tribute to the iconic Biggie Smalls and his music, as we review the new Netflix documentary, "Biggie: I Got a Story to Tell." It's the 24th anniversary of his death, and this episode has lots of spoilers.  We also discuss other hip hop greats we lost too soon, our favorite Biggie songs, and that time Daree saw him perform at a 1995 Bad Boy concert.   Email: thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com   Instagram & Twitter: @thecmonsonpod   Voicemail: 757-204-5495

The media may want you to think Britney Spears is crazy.  We beg to differ.  #FreeBritney   In this episode, we react to the gaslighting frenzy surrounding Britney's career and her conservatorship with her father in control, as described in the New York Times documentary, Framing Britney Spears.  (Spoilers throughout-- this is a complete recap.)   We also break down Justin Timberlake's pithy apology to her and and Janet for throwing them both under the bus using his white male privilege.  But first, a word about hip hop's latest loss, the passing of Fat Boys' member Prince Markie Dee.   Free Britney 5:26 Justin's "apology" (misogyny AND cultural appropriation) 37:43   Let us know how you feel about all this at: @thecmonsonpod thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Voicemail: 757-204-5495

Daj breaks down the highlights of the Puppy Bowl 17 on Animal Planet, which was much better than the Super Bowl.  Listen in to learn about all the stars (which were adopted dogs), DJ Grandmaster Scratch's Halftime performance (the kitties got it in too), dog DNA, and therapy dogs.   Email: thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Instagram & Twitter: @thecmonsonpod Voicemail: 757-204-5495

In our two decades of adulting, we've had quite a few cars.  We're sharing stories and our favorite memories about them.  The car stories begin with Daree's first car, which she had for less than 2 hours before it was destroyed!   What's your favorite car of those you've owned?   Eastern Motors jingle - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BjpV8SgJ2gQ&ab_channel=EasternMotors

2021 marks the 20th anniversary of the singer Aaliyah's passing.  On her birthday (January 16), she would have been 42.  So we're celebrating her and all our fave singers from the 90s who blessed us with their epic dancing and choreography. Their performances changed our childhood and our lives!     In this episode:   Aaliyah and why we admired her R. Kelly's role in making her a star Aaliyah's MTV Diary documentary Aaliyah's biopic on Lifetime (produced by Wendy Williams) Scarcity of Aaliyah's catalog on streaming platforms Brandy, Monica, Beyonce, Ciara, Janet, Paula, J Lo Choreographers that helped make them great (Fatima, Tina Landon and others)     Notes: Daree's blog about dancing as a kid: https://dareesinsights.wordpress.com/2009/05/23/beauty-and-the-beat/ The phrase "a woman that happens to be White" is attributed to Amanda Seales (Small Doses podcast) (Selma was the movie Daree mentioned at 18:45) Janet Jackson's epic 1987 Grammy Awards performance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-TiXJP-ssI     Hit us up: @thecmonsonpod thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Voicemail: 757-204-5495

We thought it would be fun to wrap up the final episode of 2020 with a totally fun, non-dramatic topic.  So we're defending our choices of our favorite pop, R&B, hip hop, jazz, techno and LatinX songs released in 2020.    Pop 2:39 R&B 12:57 Hip Hop 22:16 Jazz 29:42 Techno 34:00 LatinX/Reggaeton 34:47     Don't agree?  Let us know!   @thecmonsonpod thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Voicemail: 757-204-5495

Why is dog owner etiquette sorely lacking in these streets?  Why don't some pet parents take their dog ownership responsibilities seriously?   Daree & Daj reminisce about being attacked by dogs and, later in life, the transition to dog ownership (just Daj) and slight openness to it (Daree), and more.   That time a rabid dog tried to attack us as children 3:22 Being afraid of dogs for a lifetime 4:07 When you discover other people's dogs poop on your property 8:24 Lack of etiquette when running through parks or neighborhoods with others who have dogs 10:21 That time Daj's dog bit a food delivery person who did not follow instructions 14:09 When Daj's dog bites her 19:26 Walking the dog comes with cautionary measures 20:57 The only breed of dog Daree would ever want 27:06 Vet bills and pet insurance 29:36     Do you own a dog? Have you ever been bitten by someone else's dog? What did you do?

Daree & Daj share a few Thanksgiving memories, talk about having a birthday near the holiday, ordering Thanksgiving meal instead of cooking, Patti LaBelle's pies, birthday freebies from restaurants, and how to handle relationships with folks who you feel you're "forced" to deal with during the holidays.   Celebrating Thanksgiving without your family 4:10 Carryout vs cooking the Thanksgiving meal 7:00 Having your birthday close to a holiday 12:32 Questioning the validity of your relationships and who you force yourself to be around 19:00

Everyone can benefit from therapy. It's self-care.     In this episode, Daree & Daj explore the stigma of therapy in Black culture, and why Blacks don't trust the healthcare system in America.    Topics: Diabetes awareness  Mental health awareness 1:57 Evaluating your mental health: should you choose therapy or life coaching? 6:31 Our experiences with therapy and medication 8:55 Difficulties when booking a new therapist 13:13 Why Black people don't trust doctors, and disparities in healthcare for minorities 24:16 Social determinants of health 30:48 How COVID and lackluster healthcare processes affect the elderly 36:46 Your Community: nothing matters unless you care about other people - look out for your neighbors 41:29     Daree's Diabetes awareness podcast: https://kickinitwithdaree.com/episode/worst-diabetes-mom-stacey-simms      The SCAN Foundation in California is helping to realize the needs of the 65+ population there. Daree narrated this documentary style video, which is a follow up to a case study done with some elderly participants to see how their lives have changed in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. https://vimeo.com/460252950     Daree is speaking at the Afros and Audio Podcast Festival, a virtual conference on Nov. 14 and 15.  Use her promo code AFAU20DAN to save 10% at afrosandaudio.com.

We're baaaa-aaack! It's Season 2 of the C'mon Son podcast, and Daree & Daj are back, and this episode includes: What we did this summer Micro-aggressions, name-shaming, and the way Black women are perceived and treated at work (when we speak up we're not necessarily angry) 7:51 Halloween memories as kids and with our kids (costumes for kids and dogs) 14:44 Trick-or-treating amid COVID: a Do or Don't? 25:24 Top 5 best candies to get when trick-or-treating (we do NOT agree) 26:31 Christians and Halloween 34:19   What's your favorite candy to get for Halloween?   Daree is speaking at the Afros and Audio Podcast Festival, a virtual conference coming Nov. 14 and 15.  Use Daree's promo code AFAU20DAN to save 10% at afrosandaudio.com.

We reflect on the events of last week involving after George Floyd, Amy Cooper, and other way-too-frequent macro- and micro-aggressions against Blacks across the U.S.  We also discuss what white privilege means, examples of privilege, and how you can help the new civil rights movement.   Check out Daree's podcast about thought work that includes referenced articles and resources on how you can help: http://kickinitwithdaree.com/episode/examine-yourself   Email: thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com   Instagram & Twitter: @thecmonsonpod   Voicemail: 757-204-5495

The braver shopper of us two (Daj) reviews the curbside pickup services from various stores, well as shipping services, updates from airlines, her thoughts about essential vs non-essential items, and specific shopping tips for you if you decide to venture out.    Email: thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com   Instagram & Twitter: @thecmonsonpod   Voicemail: 757-204-5495

We've been riding with Dunkin' Donuts for 5 years strong.  From the name change, to seasonal flavors, their menu, app and other gripes, we got it all off our chests in this episode.

It's another storytime episode, and this time, Daj talks about various debacles she encounters in a pandemic world, including close calls at the collision shop, a stalker at the grocery store, and impatient, unstable customer at the pharmacy.

Daree is contemplating the purchase a new luxury vehicle. It’s just a shiny object. She has the means, but not the need.   Does it matter if she buys the car? Does it help the economy? Or is it irresponsible?      Previous coronavirus discussion:  http://thecmonsonpod.libsyn.com/covid-convo   Email: thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Instagram & Twitter: @thecmonsonpod Voicemail: 757-204-5495

It's challenging to deal with the unknowns of life. Recognizing uncertainty reminds us that we are not in control of everything that goes on in the world.  What we do know is that it is serious, but it is temporary. What good can we take out of this COVID-19 pandemic as it continues to unfold?  Listen as we talk about these themes: 1:35 Panic is contagious too 13:28 Acknowledging feelings about these changes without judgment 14:51 Video conferencing and chats to maintain connections 17:08 Reaching out to elderly neighbors and those who live lone 20:12 Shifts in types of crime during social distancing/quarantine period 22:36 Disappointments caused by cancelled travel plans 29:17 Being prudent and responsible   How are you dealing with all this?   Email: thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Instagram & Twitter: @thecmonsonpod Voicemail: 757-204-5495

My sister and I had a hilarious discussion about good and bad experiences getting massages and other spa treatments. (And no, we don't want the coconut water afterward.)  

Valentine's Day always brings up the topics of love and singleness, and this episode is no different.  Daree & Daj reminisce about lessons learned in different single periods of their lives, rant about people who assume you have time to do whatever just because your single, and rude questions people ask about your romantic status or parenting plans. We chopped it up about:   The most annoying question you get when you're single 3:00 "Don't make a man tell you he doesn't want you more than once" 3:56 Your partner will to treat you how you allow them to  5:55 Cutting people off 11:46 Guarding your heart against too much too soon 16:44 Living in your purpose while single 19:57 Assumptions that you have more time on your hands as a single person (e.g., working late, doing more volunteering in church) 22:20 The decision of whether to have a child is personal and not up for debate 27:44   What have you learned from dating?  And what does Valentine's Day mean to you?   Email: thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Instagram & Twitter: @thecmonsonpod Voicemail: 757-204-5495

Church gatherings, meetings and meetups.  People often find a way to come together and when they leave, sometimes they're better off, and sometimes it's a waste of time. You don't always know which way it's gonna go.   00:49 Meetings 10:11 Meetups 18:28 Natural hair meetups in Atlanta 18:58 Church stuff 22:29 Loneliness, mental illness and reaching out for real connection   Former NBA Player Delonte West and mental illness https://youtu.be/8Ke8qx4L1cs   Daree's article: My Loneliness is Killing Me  https://medium.com/@dareeallen/my-loneliness-is-killing-me-lets-reconnect-part-1-1e8d90813afd

Sometimes you just gotta go.  And when you combine the urge to go with I-95 traffic congestion, anxiety and panic attacks, it gets messy.  Daj explains what happened during her holiday travels and a few requests for those who manage public bathrooms (especially in fast food restaurants).

What was supposed to be a rant about New Year's Day and its implications took a sharp turn into a mini-coaching session about goals, accountability, getting organized, and planning to get what you want.  It doesn't matter what day it is-- just start today!

'Tis the season for traveling, missing connecting flights, and overall chaos on the highways and byways.  Daree & Daj discuss solo travel, Daj's 50-state goal, recall some harrowing "travelations" and mention their trip plans in 2020.

With the hustle and bustle of the holidays, we rely on convenient services like store pickup.  It's better than layaway!   Well, sort of.   Kroger Walmart Target Store apps Kohls   *This episode is not sponsored by Omaha Steaks, Target or anyone else!   Email: thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Instagram & Twitter: @thecmonsonpod Voicemail: 757-204-5495

Clothes shopping can be a major headache for women of all shapes and sizes, but for "plus size" women, it's especially challenging.     Daree's journey of being underweight to overweight over the years 1:00 Gwynnie Bee subscription box 3:45 StitchFix subscription box 8:45 Torrid 10:34 Daj's weight loss efforts  12:24 Back to Torrid 13:56  Lane Bryant 19:17 Challenges of disproportionate fitting 20:37 Tummy tuck 23:10 Ashley Stewart 24:30 Loni Love, Ashley Graham, Lizzo 25:32 Last words of encouragement 28:20     *This episode is not sponsored by Torrid!*  Daj just really loves them

We're recounting the highs and lows of staying at an Airbnb while traveling.  Included also are some tips on what NOT to do if you're a host. Access 2:57 Noise 9:28 (story at 19:06) Temperature 11:22 Bathrooms 12:50 and 20:07 Bait & switch location 17:12 More considerations for Airbnb hosts 22:45 Getting reservation cancelled early 23:20   Email: thecmonsonpodcast@gmail.com Instagram & Twitter: @thecmonsonpod Voicemail: 757-204-5495