Fancy Face & Friends

Just before Thanksgiving, Aaron joined me to talk about his thoughts on the election results, Trump's tariff restrictions with Canada, Mexico, and China, as well as his controversial cabinet picks. Including: Matt Gaetz, Marco Rubio, Tulsi Gabbard, Pete Hegseth, Linda McMahon, Robert F Kennedy Jr., and Lee Zeldin.

Known in and out of New York as the Jazzy R&B Duo, Acute Inflections joins me to talk about how the met, fell in love, and through music found a deeper connection performing together. Perpetually on the road they talk about a fond performance in Philly, performing What a Day a Difference Makes in with a reggae twist, "No Ordinary Love" by Sade being highly requested, surprising audiences with their version of Britney Spears "Toxic." They even share their experiences performing in London over the summer and Mozambique earlier this year. With plenty of shows coming up, they talk about performing with purpose and sharing with audiences causes that they are passionate about. For more information and how to book them or go to shows: https://acuteinflections.com/ IG: @acuteinflections

From Türkiye to Vietnam, Anthony shares his journey teaching English abroad, the differences between countries, being part of the LGBTQ+ abroad, and his life lessons that brought him to his present life.

Zines artist, Tori Holder, talks to me about her Tumblr beginnings as well as drawing from the mundane everyday experience to create her zines. She also talks about artists, relationships, and even a NYC trip that have inspired more of her art. We have a lively discussion between artists as to the reasons for inserting oneself into their art. To check out more of her work check out her website: https://www.toriholder.com/ Instagram: @thattorih

In my return podcast, I've invited back series guest Aaron to talk about the events that have led up to the Election race. We're days away and he talks about what he thought about Vice President Harris taking over for President Biden, the assassination attempt on Former President Trump, his VP pick JD Vance, the role that social media (and the media) play plus Black women and the Black vote.

On this episode I ask Bianca her take on recent headlines from the sky, the man who was masterbating next to a female passenger, the pilot who showed up to the cockpit drunk, unruly passengers with mask mandates, and the plane that crashed in China. She also shares her own tales from the sky and offers a MAJOR don't for passengers with flight attendants.

Jara's back to discuss the Brooklyn shooter that shot at morning commuters on the N train, last week, after detonating smoke devices. Living in post 9/11 New York City, we discuss the trauma events like that can spark for New Yorkers. As the mass shootings in the US continue to be a daily occurrence, we talk about sensible gun laws as well as the modern man and his perpetuation of violence in the #Metoo and Time's Up Era. Will things get better or worse for society, men, and gun violence?

Tiffany has created an activity book for all ages, titled Hues of Africa: Journey Between the Lines. With her extensive research and her personal travel stories, she's put together a book that educates her audience on all things Africa. Places, sights to see, culture, and more she showcases the many colors of Africa. On this episode, she talks about her trips to Ghana and South Africa, what inspired her to create Hues of Africa, and the next activity book she's working on (about HBCUs). Hues of Africa: Journey Between the Lines is available online at Target, Walmart, Barnes and Nobles and Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Hues-Africa-Coloring-Activity-Relaxtion/dp/1737001101

We may think it but we're not exactly in a post-pandemic world just yet. Adalia from Picky Girl Travels joins me in discussing the chaos in Hong Kong, her experiences with Covid19 in Mexico, my experiences in Thailand as well as the latest strain that has hit the UK. Plus I pose the question, are governments using the pandemic and fear mongering or are they using accurate data to inform the general public?

Aaron's back to discuss Ukraine and Russia's Invasion. We talk about Crimea, the brutal attacks against Ukraine, how they changed the laws for Putin to be president again, as well as what his motives are and his endgame. We also discuss Nato, the US's role, sanctions, the potential of World War 3, and keeping an eye on the other big threat China. With Africans fleeing Ukraine and seeking refuge in Poland, we chat about the racism that they've faced and we share our optimism for the end of the invasion.

Host of the Brownstone Podcast, Jara joins this episode to talk about unhealthy and healthy relationships. We discuss having an unhealthy relationship with ourselves, men, work, and more. She also shares her growth, discovery and the journey of self-reflection that she has been on. For more information on the Brownstone Podcast, click the Instagram link below: https://www.instagram.com/thebrownstonepodcast/?hl=en

Recently, former Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice said, "I would like Black kids to be completely empowered, to know that they are beautiful in their Blackness, but in order to do that I don't have to make White kids feel bad for being White." So I asked, High school US History teacher Aaron to talk about Critical Race Theory. We talk about what it is/isn't, should it be taught, and what age levels. We also discuss why conservatives are against it being taught while Republicans are running elections currently on keeping it "out of the classroom." With the long racist history that the US has had, we talk about some of the things we've learned growing up, what was accurate, the truths that students should be learning at age appropriate levels, and the role of an educator teaching history in school.

Huge Bravo fan and Real Housewives aficionado, Jeri, joins me to talk about the very controversial and eye-opening 11th season of Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. We talk about Crystal's addition to the show and Tahoe incident with Sutton. We also talk about Lisa Rinna's behavior, Dorit, Kathy Hilton's humor, and standing behind Garcelle (even when the other women weren't). I also ask Jeri's favorite RHOBH housewife ever, who's house Jeri would want to stay in, and who they would want to go on a trip with for a month. And of course we breakdown Erika Jayne and the story that kept on giving.

Los Angeles based artist ROYCE shares his latest 6 track, EP titled "A Seat at the Table." We talk about the loss of his father, from a heart attack, which inspired the title track for his EP. As most his artists he coped with grief through writing and penned the somber track. He also shares writing and recording during the pandemic. The protests in Los Angeles, which he attended, for George Floyd, inspired him to write the social justice track "Thank you! Mr. George Floyd." You'll hear snippets of his tracks as he talks about "Cum Thru" the funk inspired "Shadow" "All My Life" and the uptempo track "On My Way." Plus other artists and musical moments from Maroon 5, Pink, Billie Eilish, Lauryn Hill, Adele and we talk Prince and Beyonce. To buy the EP "A Seat at the Table" or follow his social media platforms, click here : https://roycethevoice.hearnow.com/

From preteens and high school to adulthood and beyond, Monique and I have been close friends forever. For my 100th episode, I asked her to turn the table on me, by asking me any question she wanted. She asked me about being single, whether I wanted kids, my favorite childhood moment, worst job, and favorite memory with her. She also opens up about finally becoming the mother she envisioned, while pregnant with her first son. And we share memories of an amazing woman and guidance counselor at our old high school, who recently passed away, Ms. Choice. Listen to us laugh (a lot!) about the life we've lived so far.

After 6 weeks in India, Lisa returned to the States a certified yoga instructor and then the pandemic happened... Now she shares what she's learned during her emotional discoveries. We also talk about how people can lean into meditation and yoga to heal trauma. She breaks down the difference between "Big T" trauma and "Little t" trauma. As she opens up about her own childhood memories and household, we talk about stopping the generational cycle of mental health issues and trauma and she shares a unique perspective on "reparenting" one's self to heal our inner child. To learn more about Lisa go to her website: https://www.lisathomascoaching.com/ Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamthemanifestationgoddess/

The FreeBritney movement worked and her dad has been taken off as her conservator, so fellow fan and someone who works in Mental Health Services, Elodie joins me in discussing Britney Spears. We also talk about the infamous 2007 MTV VMA performance, the 2008 breakdown, and the start of the conservatorship. Plus did the music industry play a role in helping her dad, continue the abuse she says she suffered through? As we ponder what's next for the superstar, we talk about her healing from trauma and PTSD and share what we hope is next for her and the freedom she now has to evolve. And hopefully the changes that will come from this landmark case in California.

The host of Picky Girl Travels the World Podcast, Adalia, talks about her move from Texas to Mexico City. I ask her why she left the US behind and she opens up about the quality of life. Adalia explains the differences in visas, from tourist, residential, and a work visa. Although she has lived in Kuwait, China, and Honduras, she loves her life in Mexico City and feels safer there than back in The States. Find out why. Follow her on IG to see posts about her life, the podcast, and her travels. https://www.instagram.com/pickygirltravels/

MTV just celebrated 40 years of broadcasting. I wanted to ask artist and musician Tanner, what he thinks of the milestone, where MTV started and what it has grown to become. As fans of Aaliyah, we talk about her impact and the availability of her music on streaming platforms. Drake vs Kanye West. I ask Tanner who he prefers more and which album was better and we talk about some of the antics and moments surrounding both men. Speaking of antics, Nicki Minaj's Twitter explodes with misinformation and unfounded claims. As her fans rally around her social media content, political commentators and heads of state weigh in on the need to dispel her comments.

From New Orleans, Paul talks to me about how the city has survived Hurricane Ida and losing power for a week. He was fortunate enough to flee the city to Atlanta with friends, but what does he think about the future of climate change, and hurricane seasons, in his beloved hometown? He also talks about Covid19 and the existential state of his future and the possibility of New Orleans sinking.

With the conclusion of Drag Race All Stars 6, Steve and I finally thought it was time to do a recap of all of 2021's Drag Race shows, including US, UK, Down Under, All Stars 6, as well as Holland and España. What do we think about the shows that Rupaul doesn't host? Who are some of our favorite queens and moments from the year? Plus the 'game within a game' on All Stars 6, and the top four, Kylie Sonique Love, Ra'Jah, Eureka, and Ginger Minj, who did Steve really want to win? And what we think about Drag Race finally embracing the trans and non-binary communities.

As a Master Trainer at Boss Chick Dance Workout, Danielle, promotes a fun, vibrant, safe, and inclusive experience for women, transwomen, and those who self-identify as females. She talks about her humble beginnings dancing in church in Maryland and then as an adult finding a dance team while studying in New York, and eventually finding BCDW. I also talk to her about what she's learned about herself through dance and how the pandemic has affected her ability to conduct classes. Twerk, dance, and take part in HIIT workouts that shed pounds, tone your body, and give you confidence. For more information, and to sign up for her virtual classes, click on the links below: https://bosschickdmv.com/ https://www.instagram.com/bcdw.dc/

A complete breakdown of everything Afghanistan, provided by Aaron. He goes into who the Taliban is, Bush's role in the country post 9-11, what should've happened after Osama was killed during Obama's Administration, Trump's role, and what's currently happening in Kabul and Biden's response. There's a lot of history and Aaron effortlessly provides insight on the chaos. We also touch on Israel & Palestine, and America's ability to keep wars off their own soil. And lastly, I ask Aaron if we would see World War 3 in our lifetime.

Nearly a year later, Anthony talks about moving to Turkey to teach English. His travels began in the Peace Corps in Lesotho. Due to the pandemic, everyone in about 61 countries were sent back to their home country (including him). After being back in the US, last year he moved to Istanbul to teach English. We swap stories about teaching English as a second language to students, Anthony in Turkey and me in Taiwan. What are the differences between teaching adults vs teaching young learners? What has he learned about himself as a teacher? Plus the advice he gives to others who are looking to teach English abroad.

Serving us Black Girl Magic, Samara (blogger of Styled Chic) shares how she started her Lifestyle blog and her journey from using relaxers to cutting it all off and rocking the natural look. She also talks about finding inspiration from her mom to start juicing plus delicious dishes like her Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet. We also talk about travel and her essentials for a good trip (spoiler... proper research) and her must-have beauty item that she swears by. For more information check out her blog here: https://www.styledchic.net/ And follow her on Instagram @styledchic

Born and raised in South Africa, Storme has found love and life, working in Taiwan. She talks about ending a relationship before she arrived, dating, and eventually falling in love with her now Taiwanese husband, Brian. Finding love in a foreign place can have its cultural and language challenges and I ask Storme about what some of those were plus the wedding that they are planning to have for both of their families and their future journey together to Australia.

Canceled or not canceled? I ask Monique her thoughts on several people and things in the news this summer. Should these people/things be canceled or not? We talk about Bill Cosby being released and Phylicia Rashad's supportive (later deleted) tweet. Did the Olympics make the right call with Sha'carri Richardson? Plus the pressure Simone Biles (and backlash) for being the GOAT. Sharon Osbourne lost her job on The Talk following an uncomfortable meltdown on air against her "friend" Sheryl Underwood. How should Sharon have handled the talk? The world is over Covid19 and the Delta variant and we all want to get back to a normal life again. DaBaby's ignorant, homophobic comments have caused ignorant former rapper T.I. to drag Lil Nas into the debate, while claiming that rappers are being bullied by the gay community. What??? In other music news, Britney's convservatorship should the "Slave 4 U" singer be unshackled? Lastly climate change... the one thing we should cancel right now.

From Houston to New York to New Zealand back home to Houston, Briana opens up about her journey finding meditation and applying it to herself and her relationships with family, friends, spouses, and the community. Now she offers classes (in person in Houston) and online with In Free and Flow, a new donation based yoga exploration for self reflection and connection. Today she talks about finding the stillness, exploring meditation without expectations, and her own personal growth from the past to the present. For more information about In Free and Flow (including classes and their podcast) click the link below. https://linktr.ee/Inflowandfree

With George Floyd's family recently in the White House, I ask Aaron has President Biden and his administration done enough for police reform, police brutality, and Black Lives Matter? We also talk about Biden's Covid19 vaccine rollout. Has he done a good job for Americans? With another mass shooting, this time in San Jose, what can his administration do about gun laws? I also ask Aaron to grade the work that he's done for the last four months. So what grade does he give?

Steve joins me to talk about four countries taking different steps with Covid19. In America they've gone maskless for fully vaccinated people, according to the CDC and President Biden. We talk about having to trust people who claim to be vaccinated when they aren't. Plus what should business owners do? Meanwhile Germany is still under lockdown with a curfew in effect. And the rollout from the European Union when it comes to vaccine access. While the "World's Pharmacy" India has been devastated by the pandemic. We discuss how and why. Then Covid19 arrives to one of the safest countries in the world, Taiwan. An almost overnight spike has forced the government to place Taipei under lockdown as the numbers continue to rise.

From Florida and living in Taipei, Tanner from The Co-Pilots talks about working on his fourth album "Pacific Echo" and his first single "Acid Rain." His debut album was in 2012, at the age of 17. His new album is a reflection on his move to Taiwan and his life there for nearly three years. He also opens up about meeting, collaborating, and performing with artists he's met, so far from USA. We also talk about some of the artists that he likes or he's been influenced by like SOPHIE, Bjork, Radiohead, Charli XCX, Aaliyah, and more. His music is available on all streaming platforms and you can check out his bandcamp account here: https://thecopilotsmusic.bandcamp.com/ https://www.facebook.com/thecopilotsmusic/

Nerine joins me to share her aloha. She opens up about how the pandemic has affected her and the tourist industry in Hawaii. She also talks about her favorite places on Oahu and the Big Island, and a recent trip she took to Bora Bora. As she's about to turn 30, she talks about what lessons she's learned, regrets she's had, and all about her 20s.

Mai and her friend Nathalie share their stories of getting breast implants and why they ultimately removed them. They both talk about insecurities. Mai, felt like she was "flat chested" and looked like a boy and got implants to feel less insecure. After having two children Nathalie wanted to boost her self esteem so she didn't have a "mom bod." Mai suffered from illnesses for years and Nathalie felt like her implants changed her personality and she wasn't present in her life. They subsequently removed their implants after symptoms they both had. They also break down the symptoms they had. And they talk about having they same surgeon for the implant and explant surgeries. This is their brave story about Breast Implant Illness. For more information: https://www.breastimplantillness.com/ https://www.healingbreastimplantillness.com/

From Germany, Steve shares what his experience has been in Frankfurt with the recent Covid19 lockdown plus his year of working from home. What does he think about the vaccine rollout in the European Union and when does he think life will get back to "normal?"

As a teacher and a parent, Aaron shares his unique perspective on the year of Distance Learning that most of America has been dealing with. In his school district in California, he's been teaching virtually since after Spring Break March 2020. As a parent of a son in elementary school and a nephew (who lives with his family) in high school, he shares what their experience has been learning from home, as well as the advantages and disadvantages. As a high school teacher of US History (and a wife who teaches 3rd grade) he talks about what his struggles have been with teaching his subject, and the chaos that has been the school district and the rules changing on a near weekly basis. And when does he think they should open up schools?

Travel blogger Tiffany of Sweet Tiffy's Inspirations joins this travel-related episode. We talk about the recent Indonesia plane crash , turbulence, and she shares a few tips on how to handle travel anxiety. We also talk about the recent attack from a passenger on a Spirit airlines gate agent over baggage fees. Are passengers becoming more and more ridiculous when it comes to wearing masks and are flight attendants jobs becoming harder? We also talk about the future of traveling in 2021 with mask mandates, and Covid19 vaccines. Is there any hope for us to travel international this year? Check out Tiffany's website and social media for more information. https://tiffany-travels.com/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/sweettiffysinspirations IG: https://www.instagram.com/sweettiffys/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/sweettiffys

From New Orleans, Paul and I discuss the Georgia state run offs, Ossoff, Warnock, and the Democrats' victory of the Senate. I also ask his opinion on a number of political figures including, Pelosi, AOC, Stacy Abrams, Josh Hawley, Mitch Mcconnell, Ted Cruz, and Giuliani. While we knew Biden was the clear winner and that the election wasn't rigged, we do a deep dive into the issues (misinformation, lack of education, poverty, Trump's lies) that brought Trump supporters to storm Capitol Hill on Wednesday. The hypocrisy and white privilege of it all.

Two Americans living in Taiwan, this week's guest Kara opens up about her personal reflections on 2020. How does she rate the year? What was her biggest triumph with personal growth? And how she fell in love with Taiwan during the pandemic. Plus we reflect on Covid19, Taiwan's early and continued response to the pandemic that has affected the world. Also in direct contrast, America's and Trump's lack of a response and the systemic issues that have been exposed because of the virus (poverty, racism, healthcare, unemployment). We also talk about US Presidential Election, Joe Biden's win, and holding the next administration just as accountable as the current one.

From Picky Girl Travels the World, Adalia shares her year in travels. Earlier this year she embarked on a 10 city tour in Europe just as Covid19 started to spread and flights were canceled. She made her way back to China, where she was living, and has since moved to Mexico City. We discuss being Black abroad and the importance of representation with traveling. We also talk about Covid19, how it has shaped our lives and travel plans for 2020, the vaccine, the US and Mexico's response, and future travels in 2021. Will people take the pandemic serious and take social responsibility? Will the world take the vaccine? Can we have longer international trips/flights? Plus what is the role of the Airline Industry? Find out what Adalia had to say. Follow Adalia online: Website: https://pickygirltravelstheworld.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pickygirltravels/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/PickyGrlTravels

A rough year for the world but a great year for music. Chris Cali joins me in talking about Lady Gaga's "Chromatica" Jessie Ware's "What's Your Pleasure?" and his Top 5 albums of 2020 (plus some honorable mentions). He's also watched several of the Verzuz "battles" this year and shares his favorite. As part of the lambily, we talk about Mariah Carey's big year, releasing a memoir, a 30 year anniversary "The Rarities" album, and her Christmas special. It was also a big year for Megan Thee Stallion, who gave great performances and proved star power. With controversy we talk about Doja Cat, cancel culture and The Grammy's...do they really matter anymore?

From Germany, Steve shares his opinion on watching the US Presidential election from afar. As Joe Biden/Kamala Harris are announced the winner, does he think that the strained relationship between Germany and the US will be better under a Biden administration? We also talk about getting rid of the Electoral College. On his side of the world he shares the current shutdowns and lockdowns happening in Germany and the rest of Europe, due to Covid19. When will it end?

Kim and I share stories of our experiences living in Taiwan. We talk about traveling around the island, paragliding in New Taipei, hiking trails and blue water in Hualien, Kaohsiung, Hsinchu, and more. We talk about the culture, the people, our pet peeves, best nights, and the socio-economic status of Taiwan. Lastly we have a discussion about Taiwan's immediate response to Covid19.

Mariah Carey celebrates 30 years in the music industry releasing her "The Rarities" album with never before heard songs from the vault, as well as her "Live at the Tokyo Dome" album. Fellow fan and part of the Lambily, Brittney shares some of her favorite Mariah moments. We also discuss past albums and personal moments we've both had because of Mariah's music.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg's legacy and death and the Supreme Court's vulnerable position. Should we cancel Halloween or let kids run around during the pandemic? Plus the White House is hit with Covid19. What does Aaron think about all of these recent headlines? He joins in this episode to give his opinions on these topics.

Back for Part Two, best friends living together in Hawaii, Brittney and Nerine share good dates with me. Nerine's is international, Brittney's is spontaneous, and I share a 4th of July date. I also open about that date/guy didn't work out in the end. We each share our dealbreakers when it comes to pet peeves or things we just can't handle in a date or partner. The ladies join me in a discussion about the benefits of dating outside your race or culture. We also turn it around on ourselves and talk about what our growth should be through dating.

Adalia, from Picky Girl Travels the World, shares her difficult journey out of China to Mexico. We also talk about our distrust for the airline industry when it comes to cleanliness of the planes and security lines. What should change about the way we travel and will the airlines take responsibility? Should people sacrifice the holiday season? Check out Adalia's blog: https://pickygirltravelstheworld.com/

World travel blogger Tiffany, joins the show to talk about what life is like as a traveler post Covid19. The pandemic has shaped up and forced us all to re-evaluate our lives, and we talk about what the isolation means and the travel blues. Tiffany gives me some insight into her last trip in January to Ghana and where she wants to go next. I share my apprehension to getting on a plane again in the near future and Tiffany can't wait to travel again! Check out her blog link below and follow her on IG. https://tiffany-travels.com/ https://www.instagram.com/sweettiffys/

Steve and I recap Rupaul's Drag Race All Stars Season 5. He tells me who he thinks the weakest drag queen was and the strongest. We also talk about the Snatch Game, the lip sync assassins, the producers, the challenges, and the final three queens; Miz Cracker, Jujubee, and Shea Couleé.

Aaron opens up about being a Black man in America and having an interracial relationship and mixed kids.

From Honolulu, besties and roommates Brittney and Nerine open about their single lives. I ask the ladies what physically turns them on about men. We also talk about dating during quarantine plus each of the roommies shares a bad date story. Brittney with a controlling first date and Nerine with a bad attitude guy. We also laugh about dick pics and more!

Jillian joins me in a discussion about her home country South Africa. She gives me a brief history lesson on how colonialism started in South Africa. We also talk about the murders during apartheid. I also ask her about how South African's economy was before Covid19 and how South Africa is being impacted now because of the virus.