Ladies Doing Stuff Podcast

Recorded live! In keeping with the Ladies Doing Stuff Podcast tradition, Aamber and Cheram dive deep into their wins and losses for the year. No one is holding back this episode. 2021 sure didn't! Hold on, you may need a mimosa for this one!

Did the Ladies just have a fight? The only thing harder than building relationships is keeping them. This episode Charlie & Aamber learn even their connection is not immune to the work required to maintain friendships. We've come a long way since 2016 but who knew there is still work to be done!

Dating in Los Angeles is like having a picnic on the beach. It sounded like a good idea at the time! Next thing you know the wind picks up, your towel folds in, and you have a heavy helping of sand in your guacamole. We're back from summer break to ask you all a serious question: “Should I give up on dating?” Both of us have had our fair share of dating disasters and relationship regrets, but Aamber is about 2.3 seconds away from throwing in the towel altogether. Listen to this episode to find out how we landed here in the first place and see if Charlie's solution restores Aamber's hope in the dating department.

"I'm not where I want to be." Is there a millennial that can't relate? If you are that millennial, can I hold a dollar? Jk. No but really - This episode we explore how to cope when great expectations of life in Los Angeles meets harsh reality. Believe it or not, it's not all bad! We've grown. We've changed. Like a lot. 2020-2021 has shown us who we are and where we want to be. Aamber learns what it means to "enjoy the journey" while Charlie learns how to "work through" personal and professional challenges instead of simply "getting past it." Turns out there's a big difference! Listen in.

Watch this episode on YouTube! If you know the Ladies, you know we are constantly in transition. The pandemic, new jobs, new relationships, new homes, it's exciting, and stressful, and...ah I just need a moment. It's a lot. We hit up Derek Lane, fellow podcaster (and big bro) to help us sort through it all. Change can be great! It could also be a train wreck. This episode we're catching up with Derek, talking about the latest changes in our lives and how to navigate them. Watch on Youtube: https://bit.ly/2OO0zA0 Listen to Last Word by Derek Lane: http://apple.co/2NsGAGG

Examples of creepy Craigslist room rental inquiry responses: These are real ⬇️"U looking sexy want to be my live in girlfriend""Are you open to a live in girlfriend situation? Free rent as long as you stay. Doesn't have to be only sexual but actually build something nice together or keep it simple. ""I don’t have a room for you, but I do have cash. Maybe we can still help each other out?" 

Hindsight is 20/20 and 2020 is not what we pictured. The politics, the protests - it literally feels like the world is on fire. Come to think of it, California is. But hey, would you believe it if I told you we've come a long way? True, the world is crumbling a bit, but we've found a way to grow through it all. This episode the Ladies flashback and listen to their 2016 episode "Drunk Politics." All while giving 2020 insight to what used to feel like dark times (little did we know!

Hear us out. 2020 is a good year! You just have to squint past the pandemic and the entire uprooting of life as we know it! *smiles nervously*  In all seriousness, we’re learning to find the lessons in all the hardships that 2020 has thrown our way. Sudden transitions, new jobs, new anxiety, and new kitchen appliances are just the tip of the iceberg for The Ladies. --Shout out to my waffle maker!

*ALEXA! What are feelings?* To be fair, this previously unreleased episode was made in early 2019.  Back in the day even when things weren't all COVID-Y, we were feeling so overwhelmed with a lack of emotion that we had to ask ourselves the question, "Can you feel anything?" In retrospect, we were probably depressed. So naturally, this episode consists of 30% nervous laughter.

“Death is only the end if you believe life is about you.” We brought in Death Care expert and author of “Dear Grief, You’re a B*tch,” Shannan Guillory to educate us about death from an emotional and professional point of view. We saved this episode in the vault and now is the perfect time to share it with you. Before social distancing and self-quarantine, LA was rocked by the loss of a legend. Regardless of the challenges 2020 has brought us, we're learning to celebrate life and how to honor the lives of those that are no longer with us. This is one episode you'll have to play to the end. Check out Shannan's book, “Dear Grief, You’re a B*tch” https://www.idodeath.com/book

Don't forget to watch this episode on youtube!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LrJWYw_Z8Ww

Watch this episode on Youtube!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KCeOObBOpLs

Situationships and friends with benefits are kind of the norm here in LA. Everyone is afraid of commitment and no one wants to miss out on the “perfect” partner. Swiping right for nightly thrills seems to be the new normal, but what if we took sex out of the equation? Before you roll your eyes and leave like Viola Davis, just hear us out. Charlie and Aamber dish with good friend and actress Leah Williams (as seen on Awkward Black Girl) about what it’s like being celibate in the lustful city of Los Angeles. Could celibacy really be the answer to finding a fulfilling partnership? Is it possible to just ‘hook up with no strings attached? The Ladies explore how celibacy is gaining popularity in Los Angeles and how to guard your heart when giving (or not giving) up the goods.

We've been told that we're particular, opinionated, and maybe a tad bit controlling. Of course none of this is true but if it were, this is the episode we would make to address it. It doesn't matter if you're at home, in the workplace, or in a relationship. We're all battling for more control over our lives. Some of us (Aamber) more than others (Charlie). The Ladies invite returning guest Juju from The Thousand Errors Podcast to discuss the differences between control issues in men and women, and how we can make our need for control an asset, rather than an obstacle.

You know that thing you've waited your whole life to do but never actually did? Oh, we're doing that thing today. This episode Charlie and Aamber talk one-on-one about those deep desires and wild, wild thoughts that have been buried by the weight of responsibility, full-time employment, and you guessed it...traffic. Sometimes growing up means setting aside your wildest, deepest desires, other times it means working smarter, harder, and intentionally to get them. The Ladies share their plans to live life to the fullest. ---Contrary to popular opinion, no drugs were consumed during the making of this episode

"We cater way too much to other people and we need to learn how to put ourselves first." We're getting a little bit selfish this episode and you know what, that's okay! Black women have it ingrained in their character that we should serve others before taking care of ourselves. Anxiety, depression, and suppressed emotions are just a few of the many side effects of "service over self." With so much awareness of mental health and self-love these days, it's only right that we talk about how we're not here to please the world. We flew from sunny SoCal to Uptown Shots in Harlem, New York to meet up with Dina, host of Not For Everybody Podcast. Dina unapologetically shares her enlightened perspective on being the right amount of selfish, and how recognizing her anxiety and depression led her to start putting herself first. "Ladies Not For Everybody" is here to remind you that the world is going to keep spinning if you decide to do something crazy like take a few days off of work, or ignore all 7 calls from your mother. (She'll understand) Listen now to hear how Aamber, Charlie, and Dina overcame the desire to be everyone's "perfect" person, and what you need to do in order to take the first steps towards being comfortable with selfishness. Trust us, this is everything you need to hear this week. If you like what you hear, don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review. Be sure to listen and subscribe to Not For Everybody Podcast, and follow Dina on Instagram @notforeverybodypodcast. A very special thank you to Uptown Shots for the most beautiful space a podcaster could ask for! Uptown Shots is a minority-owned, full-service urban chic production studio located in the heart of Harlem, NY. Whenever you're in New York, make sure you book Uptown Shots for all of your photography and videography needs. Visit uptownshots.com and follow them on instagram @uptownshots

We’ve been working hard these last few months trying to keep it all together. Sometimes it feels like we’re going at it alone, but that’s just not reality. More Charlie and Aamber life-updates to come later this season, but for now, we’re just searching for answers! Our special guest and wellness expert Miana, reminds us that we can be our own best friend or our own worst enemy during tough times. Charlie is overjoyed when “the universe” becomes a legitimate topic of discussion for more than 60-seconds. Aamber attempts to rewire her programing to believe in the power of positive thinking. Keep your head up and your headphones on. Jokes aside, we all need this one. Learn More About Miana ⬇️ Website: https://squareup.com/store/Mianamelendez Instagram: @mianamelendez Business Instagram: @browngirlswhobruja Wellness Exclusive: “Eat Your Chakras” http://bit.ly/LadiesDoingChakras

You’ve heard America’s solution to anxiety, but we guarantee you haven't heard ours. Sure you can lay off the caffeine, look on the bright side, or take a pill, but does it ever really resolve the issue? The truth is, anxiety can revolve around one big issue or a hundred “little” pet peeves, either way it’s real. The Ladies speak on their everyday experiences with anxiety and give you some not-so-traditional ways to beat it.

“Shamone! Make that change.” No seriously. You should! This episode Charlie and Aamber sit down with our special guest Monnaa, to discuss how to make life-changing decisions. Monnaa has gone from working in DC politics to paving her own path in stand-up comedy. Natural career trajectory, right? We dive deep into the mindset that often stops us from living the life we once dreamed of. You know, back when we weren’t afraid to hope for something other than making enough to pay rent. The Ladies discuss the “why” behind the major changes they’ve made and how to stop letting fear, finances, or failure determine our path. YouTube Channel ⬇️ http://bit.ly/ladiesyoutube Local Business Spotlight: The Academy, Long Beach, CA http://bit.ly/theacademylb Follow Our Guest Monnaa Instagram/Twitter: @monnaaahh Facebook: Monnaa Ahh

Yes, we’re talking about race. No, it’s okay! You don’t have to run. The Ladies check their prejudice at the door as they disclose some surprising and not-so-surprising truths about living and loving in a city that “doesn’t see color.” Deciding which [black] hairstyle to wear to meet [white] boyfriend’s family is only the beginning. Charlie sees people, not color. Aamber sees wishful thinking. The Ladies agree that division is only a symptom of a greater issue. Put aside the need to be right, and the right to be offended so we can start to understand how prejudice impacts our livelihood, our choices, and unspoken obligations for women of color.

Ahh, To be young, gifted, and Black... in Hollywood. Charlie and Aamber are breaking into show business and they need all the dirt — I mean, help they can get. The Ladies learn the advantages and challenges that come with being a woman of color in the entertainment industry and explore the behind the scenes with Emmy nominated producer Kareem A. Cox and comedy writer, Khambi Hamis, creator of the TV show “Dropouts.” This is one episode you won’t want to miss. To learn more about Dropouts visit dropoutstvshow.com or www.indiegogo.com/projects/dropouts-tv-series#/.

We're bombarded with posts, likes, and read receipts. Staying present has never been harder. This episode The Ladies learn to let go of the ghosts of the past. Charlie comes to terms with 'unclaimed' baggage from past relationships, while Aamber learns that exes don't always make the best of friends. This one goes out to anyone grappling with the past while striving for a bright future.

"Why can't we all just get along?" We'll tell you why. This episode the Ladies discuss what's worth fighting for and how to make peace with the past. Whether you're in a new relationship or waiting in line at the store, our peace of mind is tested daily. Charlie keeps the peace by letting it all "roll off her shoulders" while Aamber seems ready to roll up her sleeves. When it comes to resolutions, one-size never fits all.

Is it better to be feared or liked? You tell us, because we're still trying to figure this one out. Whether we're giving money to strangers or time to those that don't deserve it, we often find ourselves being far too nice. But what's it all for? This episode the Ladies dive into the need women have to be liked, our efforts to be kind, and what it means to be a nice girl finishing first.

Was that “the one that got away” or did you just dodge a bullet? Innocent or not, every romantic relationship starts with a crush. Charlie & Aamber flashback to their school days to find out what it really means to “play chase.” The Ladies discuss how they’ve approached guys in a place as picky as Los Angeles and dish about their failed attempts at making the first move.

You don’t have to cry anymore, the wait is over! The Ladies return to celebrate another year of wins and growth in Los Angeles. No L’s allowed! Charlie describes her renewed passion for entrepreneurship and new-found need for type-A organization. Aamber shares what she learned about “having it all” as she continues to care less about having it at all together. The Ladies also highlight what’s new in the upcoming season and let listeners know how they can join in the fun!

Remember, "Step on a crack and break your momma’s back?" That was our first introduction to superstition, but as we get older, we realize superstition can take form as spiritual beliefs, dream interpretations, and even cultural upbringing. Is it all just “hocus pocus” or is their some truth to superstition? On Ladies & Superstition, Charlie explains her unwavering stance on “speaking things into existence,” Aamber expresses her relentless skepticism, and local Los Angelinos define what superstition means to them.

It's not polite to discuss money, they say. But honestly, where has that gotten us as a community? This episode Charlie and Aamber talk about getting set up for financial success and dive into the perceptions and harsh realities of money management in the black community. The Ladies have had their share of financial misses and money missteps, but now it's about making moves to get back on track. Special guest Ashlyee Freeman, MBA, joins the show to give insight on how to reach financial stability and to share important, must-know salary negotiation techniques for fellow millennials.

We’ve often heard that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but is that still true if I wear a natural hairstyle in corporate America? For a black woman, a hairstyle can mean the difference between getting noticed, intimidating the masses, or being ignored altogether. Forget beauty and hair care tips, this episode digs deep into what lies beneath Black hair. How we wear our hair can both alleviate (or drive) our insecurities and make a statement about who we chose to be on a given day. This episode the ladies discuss how black hair and standards of beauty can impact social interactions, our confidence, and our relationships.

How many truth bombs can we drop in one episode? We lost count. Listen to the ladies on Single AF Podcast! Host Nick Chilkov reminds Charlie and Aamber what it’s like to date in 2018, a time when finding a date IRL -In Real Life- is a thing of the past (and apparently a well-known abbreviation). The Ladies are forced to rethink dating protocol and first impressions when they discuss Nick’s Tinder date showing up late to a first encounter. Charlie, Aamber, and Nick discuss race, dating, and attraction in relationships when Nick reveals that he’s not very attracted to Black women. Lastly the ladies take on TLC's age-old question, "What about Your Friends?" when Charlie gives us the rundown on what it’s like when your introvert, Caucasian boyfriend meets your “not so shy” Black friends for the first time.

Okay America, give us a break! One minute we’re “independent women” and the next we’re “damsels in distress?” Pick one! It’s no secret, there are some serious drawbacks when it comes to being a lady in Los Angeles. How often are we expected to be seen, sometimes touched, but not heard? Being “twice as good to get half,” isn’t just a line from a TV show, it’s the story of our lives. Charlie tells us what to do when that male cashier gets a little too handsy at the corner store. The ladies explore the advantages of being underestimated when Aamber shows us how to get free coffee with a smile. Nothing is off limits when the ladies discuss their thoughts and experiences with equality… or inequality… depending on the situation. It’s complicated. Just listen, okay? We’ll explain later!

Charlie & Aamber feature on The ThousandErrors, a fellow Los Angeles podcast. The ladies dive deep into discussion with best friends Juju and Shorts about self-love and controversial gender expectations. Producer Mike drops knowledge on IRA’s, money moves, and real estate. What a journey… you won’t believe what we learned!

We all want loyalty, but does it even exist anymore? This episode we invite fellow podcaster and newest BFF Derek Lane from “Last Word Podcast” to discuss where loyalty lies and where lies begin. From mysterious 6-hour gym sessions to 3-way calls gone wrong, listen as we find simple solutions to staying loyal in two-faced times.

It’s hard to say if we’re easy to please, but let’s be honest... Will Ladies in LA ever be satisfied? Charlie and Aamber discuss their ‘perfectly reasonable, not at all unrealistic’ expectations of themselves and their ‘bare minimum, perfectly achievable’ expectations of others. Spoiler Alert*** We're completely satisfied...with everything.

“Whoever said your 20's are your easiest years is a f**king liar.” The Ladies are kicking off season 2 with an unfiltered look into self-worth and self-love. Listen as Charlie and Aamber discuss their impulsive career decisions, Inception-like nightmares, and the importance of knowing when (and how) to stand up for your worth.

While we have a lot to be grateful for, that’s not stopping us from ragging on this past year. From Aamber’s newfound IDGAF attitude to Charlie’s sage and crystal obsession, we discuss our 2017 wins and losses, and almost-attainable goals for 2018.

No time to listen to season one? Well, this about sums it up! The ladies highlight the best moments of season one and talk about what has changed - or stayed the same since starting Ladies Doing Stuff.

Forgive & Forget. Never go to bed angry. Are these relationship rules or unrealistic clichés? The Ladies debate and discuss their experiences with forgiveness...or lack thereof.

What is Ladies Doing Stuff? Here's the Elevator Pitch!

Drinking games make politics fun! Listen to the ladies as they attempt to discuss the state of American politics...over shots of Patron.

"There does come a day when you realize that you're Black, and it's not when you look in the mirror..." Listen to The Ladies discuss their experiences with sounding "White," racism, and repressed feelings as Black women living in America.

Some of the hardest obstacles to overcome are the insecurities we have. Listen to The Ladies discuss their struggles with their complex insecurities, how they came about, and how they try to cope.

If you're dating in Los Angeles, is it really even dating? Listen to The Ladies talk about their dating experiences in Los Angeles, and what you should do to end a potential disaster before it begins.

Got friends? Listen up. The Ladies discuss the complexities of creating and maintaining friendships.

As if life isn't hard enough. The Ladies discuss the troubles of going back to school, how they balance their social lives, and if it's all worth it.

Closing a chapter in your life is never fun.  The Ladies discuss their worst break ups, how to cope, and the upside to change.

Aamber is getting married! The Ladies talk about the joys and difficulties of planning a wedding, views on marriage, and ideal ceremonies.

Changing careers is no walk in the park. The Ladies discuss why they decided to go back to school and how they balance social life.

Charlie and Aamber introduce who they are and why they started "Ladies Doing Stuff."