Keep it Positive, Sweetie

Episode 1 of Season 8 is here !! In this powerful and personal episode I sit down with the multi-talented Queen Naija for a real conversation about growth, grace, and glowing from the inside out. We talk about so much from body image, to the pressure to be perfect, mom guilt, and learning to love yourself at every stage. We talk therapy, fasting from social media, honoring our faith, and how she's shifting the way she shows up as a woman, artist, and mother.

We're back at the BET Media House, and Part 2 is filled with even more gems, laughter, and soul-stirring conversations. Day 2 of BET Media House was full of insightful conversations from start to finish with some of the biggest power houses in the industry.

The vibes were high and the energy was real at the BET Media House, and Keep It Positive, Sweetie was right in the mix! Crystal Renee sat down with some of the culture's most impactful voices for a day full of real talk, belly laughs, and powerful moments you won't see anywhere else. From healing and hustle to joy and legacy, this episode captures the spirit of the weekend

Hey Sweeties!! This month we are looking back over the past two years of Keep It Positive, Sweetie, and this week we are taking it back to the Matriarch herself, the incomparable Miss Tina Knowles. I love me some Mama Tina! Her wisdom, grace, and unshakable strength are a true masterclass in purpose, motherhood, and legacy. If you missed it the first time, tap in now! This one is timeless, just like her.

To celebrate 2 years of Keep It Positive, Sweetie, we're re-airing one of your all-time favorite episodes — “Marinating Over Activating” with Sarah Jakes Roberts. This conversation is a reminder that sitting still, waiting on God, and allowing yourself to be prepared is just as powerful as taking action. If you missed it the first time — this one will bless you. And if you've already heard it, trust me… it hits even deeper the second time around.

As we celebrate two years of Keep It Positive, Sweetie, we are running back some of your favorite episodes. This week's episode is none other than my dear friend, Tyler Perry. Known to the world as a visionary, humanitarian, director, actor and writer, Tyler shares life lessons as he's navigated many ups and downs. If you're new here, WELCOME!!

In celebration of Keep It Positive, Sweetie's 2-Year Anniversary, we are spinning the block on some of your favorite episodes. Starting off with none other than my dear friend, Kountry Wayne !! Wayne, is known for his God-given ability to make us laugh, but more than a comedian, he is a man of God, a father, producer, and author (Help Is On The Way). Taking the industry storm, his story is one to surely inspire! If you're new here ... WELCOME!! This is a safe space, created to give people the freedom to heal, laugh, grow and LOVE together – all in the spirit of positivity!

In this week's solo episode, I'm letting you into my mindset on different topics.

Tika Sumpter is a powerhouse talent–she's an NAACP nominated actress and producer, a children's book author (I Got It From My Momma) and podcast creator who's been steadily redefining what it means to move with ambition, grace and grit in Hollywood. We sit and talk about her journey, motherhood, marriage and building the life of her dreams.

This week on Keep It Positive, Sweetie, I sat down with the powerhouse behind Mielle Organics—Monique Rodriguez. We talked about building a beauty empire, navigating loss, staying rooted in faith, and her brand new book The Glory in Your Story. Monique shares what it really takes to walk in purpose and turn pain into power.

This week on Keep It Positive, Sweetie, I'm sitting down with entrepreneur, model, and influencer Jordyn Woods. We went deep—talking about her childhood, navigating past trauma, the journey of healing, and her latest business ventures (my girl's been busy!). I left this conversation so inspired, and I know you will too.

This week on Keep It Positive, Sweetie, I'm sitting down with the multi-talented Jacob Latimore — actor, singer, and all-around creative force. From starring in hit series like The Chi to building a dynamic music career, Jacob opens up about balancing both worlds, staying grounded in the spotlight, and the lessons he's learned along the way. We dive into the source of his creativity, personal growth, and what keeps him motivated through every new chapter. This conversation is full of inspiration, real talk, and gems you don't want to miss. Tap in, take notes, and be sure to share this episode with someone who could use a little positivity this week!

This week on Keep It Positive, Sweetie, I had the honor of sitting down with the incomparable talent that is Saint Jhn. His story is raw, real, and deeply relatable—a journey that's sure to leave you inspired. You don't want to miss this one.

This week on Keep It Positive, Sweetie, we're wrapping up the final segment of the LIVE SHOW with the powerhouse ladies of Zatima and our leading man, Devale Ellis!  We even brought two incredible audience members on stage for a special edition of Positive Outcomes—and let me tell you, the energy was unmatched. These live shows are truly something special. I hope to see YOU at the next one! 

This week on “Keep It Positive, Sweetie,” we're bringing you Part 2 of our live show with the one and only Da'Vinchi! We had such a refreshing and insightful conversation – from his childhood in Brooklyn, NY, to commanding the stage on Broadway, and gracing our television screens weekly. Da'Vinchi opened up about his passion for mental health and shared his thoughts on the importance of the family nucleus. You won't want to miss this inspiring episode!

This week on Keep It Positive, Sweetie, we're taking it back to the KIPS Live Show Pt. 1: The Group Chat! Real, raw, and unfiltered conversations with my girls – because there's nothing like a safe space where no topic is off limits. Get ready for laughs, love, and a whole lot of truth-telling!

This week on Keep It Positive, Sweetie, I'm joined by the powerhouse herself — multi-hyphenate entrepreneur and co-founder of The Fearless Fund, Arian Simone. We dive into a candid, no-holds-barred conversation about Selling the Vision, her relentless fight for women entrepreneurs of color, and the landmark federal court case that thrust her into the national spotlight — igniting a much-needed conversation around the future of DEI in America. From sitting at the feet of legends like Coretta Scott King and Rosa Parks as a young girl, to being crowned a real-life Ivorian Queen, Arian's journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Her story is bold, brilliant, and deeply inspiring. Grab your pen and paper — class is in session. You're about to be educated, empowered, and reminded of the power of purpose.

This week on Keep It Positive, Sweetie, my incredibly talented friend and cast-mate Nzinga Imani joins me for a conversation about owning your power, creating your own opportunities, and never waiting for permission to shine! From acting to modeling to singing—Nzinga does it ALL, and she does it unapologetically! Tap in for this inspiring conversation with a true force to be reckoned with!

Lee Vasi, a dynamic Christian R&B singer and songwriter, to discuss her inspiring journey of surrendering to God's will. Lee's path has been remarkable, transitioning from a childhood career in singing and acting to embracing her calling in Christian R&B music. Her story exemplifies how one can break free from conventional molds, dedicating their talents to glorify God while navigating the challenges of pursuing Christ.

This week on Keep It Positive, Sweetie, we have the uber-talented Kash Doll! Known for her dynamic rap lyrics and undeniable stage presence, Kash is a force to be reckoned with. But beyond the mic, she's a mother, sister, friend, and career woman whose trajectory has no limits! We have so much in common, and you're going to love this fun, unfiltered girl talk we had. Tap in—you don't want to miss this one!

This week on the Keep It Positive, Sweetie Show, we're joined by the multi-faceted Shamea Morton! She's sharing her journey of love, life, fertility, motherhood, and marriage–beyond what you've seen on The Real Housewives of Atlanta. You don't want to miss this conversation full of inspiration, laughter, some tears and real talk.

This week, host Crystal Renee Hayslett is dedicating an entire episode to answer your burning questions. Known for her genuine and transparent conversations, Crystal is eager to connect directly with her audience, offering insights into her personal journey and the topics you've been curious about. Don't miss this opportunity to hear Crystal's unfiltered responses and get to know her on a deeper level.

Gospel superstar, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, opens up about her fertility journey and her new devotional book, "Do It Anyway: 60 Days To A Bolder Faith."

At only 26-years-old, Coco Jones has mastered various arenas in entertainment. With chart-topping hits like, “ICU” and “Here We Go (Uh-Oh)”, and her widely popular role of Hillary Banks on the breakout drama, “Bel-Air,” Coco seems to only be scratching the surface. In a heartfelt and hopeful one-on-one, Crystal and Coco will discuss navigating relationships, growing into womanhood in the public eye, work-life balance, financial literacy and more.

Crystal continues her conversation with serial entrepreneur, The Wall Street Trapper. He discusses the foundational principles behind building wealth and opens up about how God delivered him from a life of crime and ushered him into a life of financial freedom and service.

In part one of this episode, Janell Stephens, founder and CEO of Camille Rose, opens up about how she built the number one black owned hair care brand, and she also provides some tips to aspiring entrepreneurs. Serial entrepreneur, The Wall Street Trapper, breaks down his spiritual awakening and how he's working to shift the mindsets of the masses toward wealth and entrepreneurship.

With roots firmly planted in Atlanta, GA, Young Dro has always paid homage to the Dirty South in his music. But, despite a successful span of records over the course of his hip hop career, he was immersed in a drug addition that spanned decades. Now, with nearly four years of sobriety to celebrate, he's more focused that ever.   Crystal talks to Young Dro about how he currently fits in the hip-hop puzzle, his sobriety journey and his hopes for how his testimony can uplift others. 

David & Tamela Mann are one of gospel music's most prominent power couples. With several musical and literary projects, television shows and movies to their collective credit, they are a stellar example of teamwork and managing marriage and business. Crystal will chat with David & Tamela about the keys to cultivating and keeping a happy marriage, the balance between working onscreen and life off camera and how their creative worlds collided for Tamela's new album, “Live Breathe Fight.”

No one is perfect. But the beauty in having a relationship with God, is even in our imperfections, He desires to be our Father and our foundation. The faith walk can have its share of challenges, and sometimes we can feel far from God, because of mistakes we've made, or because we simply don't feel worthy to be loved by Him or anyone else. This episode is crafted to assure viewers that their feelings are valid, and that although being human is hard, they can be certain there's nothing too hard for God and nothing too far from Him either. Crystal will have an open and honest discussion with a special group of friends and influencers, who like her, understand their humanness, and also their need for faith, forgiveness and a strong foundation in God.

B. Simone is an entrepreneur, actress, comedienne and social media sensation who isn't shy about telling her story the way she sees fit. Crystal and B. Simone sit down to discuss the importance of being transparent, the do's and don'ts of dating, what it takes to be a good friend and the keys to financial freedom.

With an unabashed delivery and honest assessments of the social, romantic and professional lives of some of the biggest names in entertainment and more, Dr. Cheyenne Bryant is blazing a new path for herself as on-camera talent. Crystal and Dr. Bryant discuss her professional trajectory, her deeply personal dating history and how she's embracing her season of singleness.

Crystal Renee Hayslett and Sherri Shepherd chat about Sherri's winding road to the apex of daytime talk, how she's managing motherhood, the beauty in being “Fit Over 50” and the importance of setting boundaries.

For decades Tammy Franklin has been the backbone of one of music's most prolific artists and global creative forces, Kirk Franklin. In retrospect, Tammy is a force all her own. In this episode, Crystal Renee Hayslett and Tammy Franklin talk marriage, motherhood and the importance of therapy.

Crystal and Rapsody discuss the emcee's creative evolution, her love languages, where sisterhood in hip-hop stands and the mystique behind the woman who's heart and soul is found inside every verse and around each beat. 

In this episode, NAACP Image Award winning actress, Gail Bean, shares some of the personal highs and lows she experienced on her rise to stardom, the importance of social and political responsibility, as well as how she's handling the 2024 Election results.

This week I had the opportunity to sit down with financial advisor and CEO of Empify, Ashley Fox. We talked about everything from generational wealth, budgeting, investment and love. Ya'll, Ashley really got my wheels turning on ways I can improve some of my financial practices.

This week I have none other than the Executive Pastor of The Potter's House at One LA, talk show host, and now author, Stephanie Ike Okafor. I didn't know what to expect when we sat down, but I was changed for the better after our conversation. We spoke about everything from love, marriage, faith, and her new book The Power of Your Dreams:A Guide to Hearing and Understanding How God Speaks While You Sleep, which hits stores August 20th. Make sure you go out and support her.

Y'all, I've been wanting to have my dear friend Shawn Finnie on the couch since season 1 and God made it possible. If you know him in real life or follow Shawn's IG, you know he is a much needed light. He's lived many lives and worked on many projects, most notably his role as the Executive Vice President at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Shawn reminds me that the biggest project that you could ever work on is yourself. Make sure you pull your journals out because there are so many lessons taught in this episode.

This week I have my friend and longtime stylist Kiyah Wright on the couch. She's been in the hair industry for 30 years working with everyone from Ciara, Mary J Blige, Tyra Banks, and so many other iconic women in the entertainment industry. We talked about everything from her upbringing, tour days, time on set with Tyra and her haircare line. Kiyah is a living testament that you can have longevity in the business if you have unwavering faith and impeccable work ethic.

This week I have my friend Brenda Palmer on the couch. In addition to being a preacher, she's also a producer, podcaster, and digital creator. We talked all things God, her book, upcoming tour, yoga, and denouncing greek organizations. Not only will you laugh but you are absolutely going to receive a prophetic word.

This week I have the uber talented Durand Bernarr on the couch. It was a pleasure to get to know him as his star is on the rise. Not only is he Erykah Badu's longtime background singer, he's an amazing R&B singer and now a DJ. We talked about his journey to stardom, new album and his skating tour. If you love good music, make sure you check out his music.

There were certain people that I just had to invite on the couch when I visited LA ,and MAJOR. was one of them. For those that know and get to witness MAJOR., they know that he is a great guy. Always hopeful every time I see him, it is no wonder they call him the Hope Dealer! We talked about his upbringing, journey to LA, music career, and the things that most creatives struggle with, such as imposter syndrome. MAJOR. also dropped some gems so make sure that you catch them.

Ya'll we are back for Season 5 and I decided to bring KIPS to LA during BET week. I had the pleasure of talking to the amazing Miss Tina Knowles and she is just as sweet as can be. We all know her for being Beyoncé and Solange's mom, but I wanted to get to know her and learn about her journey. We talked about everything from her upbringing, her family, Cécred and so much more.

I had the honor of interviewing Sarah Jakes Roberts while she was in town for her Power Moves book tour. Y'all it really felt like I was sitting down with a longtime girlfriend! We talked about her upbringing, family, shame, self worth and our toxic traits. I could not be more proud of the woman that Sarah is and how her ministry is changing lives everyday. Please make sure y'all go out and buy her book, Power Moves. It is now a New York Times Bestseller.

I had the pleasure of sitting with the wonderful and incredibly talented Nona Jones. We hadn't realized how much we had in common until we sat down. We talk about everything from her upbringing, childhood trauma, healing and so much more. Make sure you catch the gems that she's dropping.

I had the pleasure of sitting down with singer Dante Bowe, whom I've been a fan of for a long time. He is one of my favorite voices on most of my Maverick City Music songs! We talk about his upbringing, being homeless, his love for fashion and transitioning from a gospel artist to an R&B singer.

This week I have my friend, comedian and artist Emmanuel Hudson, on the couch. Not only is he funny, but he is serious about his faith walk and has one of the most relatable testimony's. It's not easy navigating this thing called fame and we get into some of the weird encounters that we've had!

Ya'll have no idea how excited I am to have Amber on the show. We met very early on in my career and so much has changed for the two of us. It's been beautiful to see each other's rise and growth in the industry over the years. She's a prime example that you can stand on business and do it with your friends at the same time.

This week we have my friend and entrepreneur Shabazz the OG on the couch. We go waaaay back, when I was pursuing my music career. He's been a great friend and a supporter of mine since day one. He's lived many lives and he wrote a book Flip Ya Life, sharing his life and many lessons that he learned along the way. Shabazz is a great example of "never judge a book by it's cover".

Y'all have been asking for my brother and costar Devale to join me on the couch and we finally made it happen! We talk about everything from football, business, faith and most importantly family. If you know anything about Devale, you know he loves his family and he's proud to be from Brooklyn. Grab your tissues because this one is a tear jerker.

This week I have my friend, Chester Tre' Rogers, on the couch to discuss his journey from playing in the NFL to being a series regular on 50 Cent's BMF. Tre' is a great example of prayer, hard work and determination will always pay off. I hope his story inspires all of you to keep going.