Mamaste with Tanika Ray

Mamas, sometimes we lose track of what it's like to be children. We forget that we only get a little more than a decade to really be kids before the bills and the responsibilities start rolling in. It's important to take a little time and remember to slow things down and appreciate the specialness of every day. Today, I'm getting real with my friend Tabitha Brown. Tabitha is a mama, an actress, an entrepreneur, and a wife—and if you've been in a Target lately, you've definitely walked past her beautiful designs displayed with a picture of her gorgeous face.Tune in and listen to episode 77 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Tabitha and I are covering everything from the way veganism changed her life to how she keeps things positive and effervescent in the face of darkness.In This Episode, You Will Learn:How Tabitha got started on her career glow-up journey (03:46)Tabitha dealt with chronic pain until she had her come to Jesus moment (07:22)Tabitha doesn't describe herself as an “influencer”—she's a woman who has influence (16:21)How Tabitha parents her black son in the current state of the world (19:13)The difference between Southeast racism and West Coast racism (22:00)Tabitha still feels challenged even though she's found her purpose (29:24)Connect with Tabitha:InstagramWebsiteLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of the reasons I created this platform is because mothering is hard. Being a daughter of a mother is hard and so vitally complicated… It might be the most complicated relationship on the planet. She's the person from which you came from, she sacrifices everything to make sure that you can enter the world healthy, loved, and nurtured—And then around eight or nine, you're rolling your eyes at her and telling her she's lame!Tune in and listen to episode seventy six of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Today, I'm all about connecting with my sassy, brilliant, beautiful, self loving, self empowered daughter.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Our kids give us honest, gut wrenching, savage truths—right to our faces! (01:22)As mothers, we need to remember to share our jewels with our whole mama network (05:09)Right now, I'm in a strange, beautiful, nostalgic phase of looking at where I came from in order to figure out where I'm going (07:27)Let's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As mamas, we give everyone else everything we have before we give ourselves grace. We try to make our kids' lives full with every possible thing they could love. We pack their schedule because we don't want their time wasted on screens, but we also often forget to allow them their own sanctuary to figure out how to pass time by themselves. When all that backfires, it can be hard to let everyone breathe and give everyone—including ourselves— space.Today, I'm welcoming my dear friend from my red carpet days, Michelle Ryan Bathé. Michelle is an actress and an extraordinary mama of two boys.Tune in and listen to episode 75 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Michelle and I are talking all about shifting and adapting, raising small kids during the pandemic, and some of the positives that came out of all that time at home.In This Episode, You Will Learn:What it was like for Michelle to film during the COVID-19 pandemic started (04:00)Why neither of us miss homeschooling our kids during the pandemic (08:37)Our kids often don't have the skills to occupy themselves because we keep them so busy (15:51)How Michelle parents around screens and devices (22:39)What it's like parenting children so that they're aware of their privilege (28:25)Connect with Amerie:InstagramAlliance of MomsLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A lot of us are suffering from all different kinds of triggers on Mother's Day… it's a heavy, emotionally charged day at its core. It's such a beautiful gesture in theory: “Today's the day that everyone stops and honors the person that keeps all of our shit together.” But in practice, is that even possible?Tune in and listen to episode seventy four of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Today gets really real mamas. I had the perfect Mother's Day planned for myself and let's just say things went pretty much the opposite of the intentions I had set.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Growing up, I didn't have the greatest example for Mother's Day (02:27)Last weekend, my daughter learned about her limits—the hard way (04:35)I love my daughter to the moon and back, but mothering is not my favorite job (13:35)Sometimes you gotta keep your business to yourself, even when it comes to your kid (17:08)When you're having a difficult Mother's Day, sometimes the best thing you can do is release (19:48)Let's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I'm wishing all you mamas out there a happy belated Mother's Day—And that includes everyone out there who's in this dang game of raising people, taking care of humans, and staying sane and loving all at the same time. I hope that whatever you did on Mother's Day, it was exactly what you wanted and exactly what you needed… and that you were able to take a break from taking care of anybody that's been in you or that's come out of you! Today, I'm welcoming superstar Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Amerie. Along with her breakout success as an R&B artist, Amerie is also a fiction author and one incredible mama to her little boy. Tune in and listen to episode 73 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Amerie is telling me how she got started writing children's books, the importance of being gentle when we educate our black and brown children, and why she's come to believe that human beings are tribal at their core.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Amerie started out in the music industry after a very typical military brat childhood (09:40)Amerie is using her books as a way to impart knowledge on her son (13:25)Why it was so important to Amerie to accurately represent her and her sons multiracial background in her book (16:09)How Amerie relates to and owns both her Korean and her Black identities (21:04)About Amerie's belief in free speech and freedom of information (26:34)Connect with Amerie:InstagramWebsiteYou Will Do Great ThingsLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mama, May is Mental Health Awareness Month and we are all up in it! I love this month because it's all about awareness—no one's asking us to fix it or even take action. But if you are a person that hasn't sought help for any issues, any trauma, any ill that you may have, then this isn't judgment. This month is all about taking another look at where your trauma lies and how you can possibly make it disappear by doing the work of wellness and healing.Today, I'm talking to Kaywanda Lamb, an author, a speaker, a blogger, and an incredible single mama. Kaywanda started her professional journey when her boys were babes and has spent the last 16 years showing other women that they can parent, thrive, and win.Tune in and listen to episode 72 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Kaywanda is telling me about why dating shouldn't be transactional, learning to be a single mom, and what we're missing out on by not learning a second language.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Trauma doesn't always have to begin with a capital T—sometimes it's the quiet stuff (05:11)A little about Kaywanda and her love affair with the Spanish language (14:34)You can be proud to be American and still scared about the direction the country is headed in (26:07)How Kaywanda tackled the George Floyd conversation with her sons (29:58)You can do it on your own and kill it—you shouldn't have to settle for someone who's not committed to you (36:50)Connect with Kaywanda:InstagramKaywandaLamb.comLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mamas, I know I don't have to tell you: if you're a black woman in America, you know your needs are ignored. That's why we typically don't trust the medical industry; there's this idea that we're superhuman, that our pain means nothing. Especially for those of us who have experienced pregnancy, we've had to make sure that we have a plan in place, that we have friends in the space where we're giving birth, and have people there to truly advocate for us. Here on Mamaste, we're never going to adhere to some fake timeline—Juneteenth is all year round, every month is Black History Month and we're always in tune to Black Maternal Health. Today, I'm welcoming an actress, an artist, and my new friend, Megalyn Echikunwoke. Megalyn is a deeply introspective and powerful artist who recently wrote and directed Weathering, a short film that explores the intense and often traumatic experience of Black motherhood, loss, and grief.Tune in and listen to episode 71 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Megalyn is telling me about her very famous friend that helped her with her artistic process and why the topic of Black maternal health resonates so strongly with her.In This Episode, You Will Learn:A bit about Megalyn and the process that brought her film to fruition (07:11)How taking a leap of faith opened up the door for her (13:20)The racism in the US healthcare system serves as a microcosm of racism in this country as a whole (16:19)About Megalyn's writing process and the place she had to go to create her narrative(19:23)Megalyn wrote Weathering for Black women (20:58)Connect with Megalyn:InstagramWeathering on NetflixLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Y'all, we are living through a wild, wild time. There are some times I want to go to the beach just to scream out into the atmosphere! The truth is, the only thing we have the ability to do is to take care of ourselves and the only thing we can control are our own actions.Tune in and listen to episode seventy of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Today, you'll hear me flying solo and exploring the idea of trauma. I'm breaking down a lesson from Cory Muscara, an author and former Buddhist monk, on what he learned during his search for enlightenment.In This Episode, You Will Learn:I've never felt the need to apologize for who I am (10:43)There is no understanding or unity or any empathy that can be gained by not being comfortable with the uncomfortable (16:16)There are people who are so afraid of discomfort that they're stuck in prisons of comfort that they've create for themselves (21:51)Real confidence looks like humility, you no longer need to advertise your value because it comes from a place that doesn't require the validation of others (32:52)Demeaning ourselves will get us nowhere, the whole world is already trying to tell us we're unworthy (36:52)Let's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Black women, and especially mothers, one of the things we have to come to terms with is how, historically, we've often been treated as vessels—completely lacking our own agency. Whether it was our enslaved ancestors made to give birth with no compassion or downtime or the current discrepancies that exist in Black maternal health, there's no shortage of examples of mistreatment in Black motherhood. Amazingly, though, there are a number of women who are using their time and resources to change that dynamic for others and for our future generations.Today in honor of Black Maternal Health Week, you'll hear one of my favorite episodes of Mamaste to date. I brought together five amazing mothers who are pushing the culture forward and taking agency over our own health when it comes to pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum experience.Join me as I welcome Ericka Dorsey and Tamesha Valverde, co-founders of Flourishing Families, Karesha Boyd, Flourishing Families doula/advocate, Alia McCants, Founder of Spelmoms Facebook group, and Vanessa Simmons, Founder & CEO of Normalize Breastfeeding. We're talking about their experiences with motherhood, what their time breastfeeding meant to them, and the incredible importance of giving ourselves grace and space as mothers.In This Episode, You Will Learn:A little about everyone and their passions and superpowers (08:18)Tamesha's incredible experience helping out a friend with twins (15:00)How Ericka became an advocate for breastfeeding (18:16)The group's thoughts on formula feeding and its usefulness (22:44)The issues surrounding selling breast milk for profit, especially in the Black community (24:50)The group's advice to soon-to-be mamas and how they can advocate for themselves (31:17)How the dismissal of Black women's choice is ingrained in our DNA, but we can reclaim that agency (35:44)Connect with My Guests:Flourishing FamiliesFlourishing Families on InstagramEricka Dorsey on LinkedInEricka Dorsey on InstagramTamesha Valverde on LinkedInTamesha Valverde on InstagramNew Beginnings Birth ConsultingAlia McCants on FacebookAlia McCants on InstagramKaresha Boyd on LinkedInKaresha Boyd on InstagramVanessa Simmons on Normalize BreastfeedingVanessa Simmons on InstagramLet's Connect!Website Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to spring, mama! It's Aries season and it's time to take advantage of all those idea sparks that have been culminating all winter. Get to the things that ignite life into you, put a little fire under your ass, and do the things that you love that you're passionate about. Now is the time.Today, I'm welcoming Ashley Wright, a mommy who burns with pure fire, creativity, and luminescence. She's an incredible mama who is working toward empowering others on their parenting and authentic living journey.Tune in and listen to episode 68 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Ashley is dishing all about building confidence and a sense of empowerment, boundaries, and the expectations around gentle parenting.In This Episode, You Will Learn:When I first discovered Ashley, she was on a pole breastfeeding her daughter! (05:12)I entered mommyhood totally clueless (07:15)How something as simple as putting up a hammock was a game changer for Ashley and her family (13:44)The way Ashley was raised and how it informs her parenting (17:12)Our kids don't intentionally try to make us miserable (25:44)Connect with Ashley:InstagramLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Boundaries aren't just a trending topic. When you step back and tell someone, “I've got boundaries,” it's not a cute saying. If we are intentional about our boundaries, they're very, very effective. It's not only about a man you don't want to be in a relationship with or someone standing too close at the grocery store— they're a way to create a safe bubble around yourself and those you love.Tune in and listen to episode sixty seven of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Today, you'll hear me solo as I talk about all things boundaries. The world may seem unbelievably ugly right now, but if we remember to focus on the light, we'll only beget more light.In This Episode, You Will Learn:My conversation in episode 66 with Sheree Zampino inspired some of today's boundary talk (03:23)In December, I went through something that made me extremely introspective. (07:22)Humans are like sponges—we have to make sure we're not soaking in negative energy even when we don't mean to (09:25)Mother's Day is incredibly complicated for a lot of people and setting boundaries can make or break you (13:24)Find a home with people that are doing empowering things, spreading love, and raising vibrations (18:15)Let's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When you think of “middle age,” where does your mind go? Do you picture Dorothy, Blanche, and the other Golden Girls eating cheesecake down in Miami? Or do you see a gorgeous, fit Jennifer Lopez, Halle Berry, or Mariah Carey in her mid 50s? It's 2023 and we're aging more beautifully and gracefully than ever—the truth is that “middle age” is really just the beginning! Today, I welcome actress, producer, mama, and inspirational co-parent Sheree Zampino. Sheree has been through all the ups and downs of single motherhood and co-parenting with her famous ex, Will Smith, but she credits much of her success as a mama to the fact that she had a village around her to help her raise her son.Tune in and listen to episode 66 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Sheree is telling me all about what it means to her to be in alignment, how the noise of social media can be so overwhelming, and why you can't tell everybody your business. In This Episode, You Will Learn:How Sheree feels at the age of 55 (07:41)About Sheree's daily affirmation rituals (11:53)Sheree is a Christian woman AND practices spirituality and meditation (16:06)Sheree raised her son as a single mom—but she definitely didn't do it alone (21:56)How Sheree kept her son grounded even with a super-famous dad (24:31)Sheree doesn't just co-parent with her ex husband, she also includes his stepmom (29:51) Connect with Sheree:Sheree on InstagramLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of the most important things that we learn after we spend a while on this earth is that growth must be continual. We have to continue to grow because stagnancy forms and creates mold and stank... The only way forward is to keep moving. Today, I welcome best selling author, wellness queen, and incredible single mama Shanicia Boswell. She's the author of Oh Sis, You're Pregnant! a guide to Black pregnancy and motherhood for mamas-to-be as well as the founder of Black Moms Blog, an online community with over 500,000 members.Tune in and listen to episode 65 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Shanicia and I are talking all about red flags—and why we have less tolerance for them the older we get. We're also covering the beautiful expat community she's a part of and what it's like having ZERO time to get into the dating world.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Shanicia left the US and is currently living with her daughter in Colombia (07:15)What it's like for Shanicia to raise her daughter in Medellín (14:16)There are so many different kinds of femininity—you don't need to fit into anyone else's narrow definition (18:38)The reaction Shanicia got when she shaved her head (24:03)What it's like teaching our daughters to love their hair (28:33)Connect with Shanicia:Shanicia on InstagramOh Sis, You're Pregnant! by Shanicia BoswellBlack Moms BlogLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“If you can't love yourself, how in the hell are you gonna love somebody else?!”These words from the iconic RuPaul have never been truer because the most important thing is love—love of self, love of family, love of friends. We have to cultivate and nurture that love for ourselves as mamas, because try as we might, we can't mommy from an empty cup. Today, I'm welcoming Alimi and Dahn Ballard. Alimi and Dahn are actors, light warriors, social activists, and amazing parents to two beautiful children, Cairo and Zion.Tune in and listen to episode 64 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Alimi and Dahn are joining me to talk about their 20 year(!) marriage, toxic clickbait, and what it was like for Dahn to raise her own siblings.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Where Alimi and Dahn get their relationship inspiration from (12:20)A bit about Dahn's childhood and her brilliant mother (16:56)How Alimi and Dahn entered into parenthood with intentionality (23:02)How Alimi and Dahn supported their son when he came out to them (33:04)Connect with Alimi and Dahn:Alimi on IGDahn on IGLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why is it that when dad takes the kids for the day it's “babysitting,” but when mom has the kids it's just… well… parenting? As modern mamas, it's our job to reject that dusty, antiquated way of thinking and make sure our identities aren't lost once we have babies.Today, I welcome Simone Shepherd, an Instagram and TikTok superstar, actress, comedian, and mama to a beautiful little boy.Tune in and listen to episode 63 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Simone and I are talking about Black girl magic, her teammate relationship with her husband, and how her step-daughter taught her how to be a mother.In This Episode, You Will Learn:About Simone's husband and their incredible bond (05:22)Why Simone chose her son's name, Prince Keraun (09:52)Simone's crazy, traumatic, beautiful birth story (13:42)Simone's struggle to find medical care to properly treat her reproductive issues (20:29)Why self-empowerment is so important for us as Black women (28:27)Connect with Simone:InstagramTikTokLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The kids, the house, the bills, the partner… let's face it Mama, between all that, there's hardly any time left for YOU. When do you get to recharge, relax, and refill your cup?Today, I'm talking once again to my sister friend Tangie Ambrose, an actress, artist, entrepreneur, and an amazing mommy inspiration. She is the person who introduced me to the concept of conscious parenting and she is the person I can always turn to when mommying tries my energy.Tune in and listen to episode 62 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. On January 22, 2023, I organized an event for mamas called Made of Magic. For months, I had been dreaming about creating an indulgent experience of self-empowerment for those who deserve it most. In this episode, you'll hear Tangie and I doing a debrief and meditation on the event.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Wellness is not only for the privileged! Wellness can be found in nature, at the beach, by spending time with yourself in silence… (04:46)As mamas, we go from being number one when we're on our own to taking a spot in line behind everyone else that we nurture (11:03)In order to rejuvenate, you have to make yourself priority number one (13:08)You cannot pour from an empty cup (19:35)If you ask for little things and get the answers, you'll then have the strength to ask when it's a big thing (24:35)Connect with Tangie:InstagramTikTokLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We know it's all about mommying here at Mamaste, but using 2023 as a fresh start, I decided it might just be time to shake things up a little bit with a new perspective…Today, I'm welcoming our very first dad guest. Shaka Senghor is an author, a lecturer, an incredibly dope thought leader, and a father. Shaka's story begins in a dark place, but through unbelievable resilience and perseverance, he's created an amazing source of light.Tune in and listen to episode 61 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Shaka and I are talking about why he hates labels, the profoundly complicated narrative around Black fatherhood, and how toxicity in the home involves both parents. We're having a crazy-deep conversation and we don't always agree—but you're definitely going to want to tune in for this one!In This Episode, You Will Learn:I'm hosting an event to celebrate my beautiful mommy tribe, and I couldn't be more excited (01:54)How Shaka sees himself in his career and his sphere of influence (11:19)Why the “absent Black father” stereotype isn't necessarily true (16:03)My experience dating men without a strong father role model (26:11)Shaka's story about running away from home when he was just a child (38:55)Connect with Shaka:WebsiteInstagramTwitterLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Therapist, receptionist, chauffeur, culinary artist, butt wiper… Some days, it really feels like we work for our kids and that mommying should require a graduate degree!Today I have with me mommy gangster Dr. Raquel Martin, a psychologist, fellow podcaster, and TikTok queen. Raquel's passion is spreading empowerment and education about mental health, anti-racism, Black identity development, and health disparities & inequalities.Tune in and listen to episode 60 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Raquel and I are talking about how differently we were treated while pregnant, single mommyhood, and why being married isn't necessarily an advantage in the parenting game.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Everyone believes they're a bad mom at one point or another—even licensed mental health professionals! (02:20)Not every moment of motherhood is a beautiful, magical journey… and that's totally okay (05:32)Raquel's mom's story of having twins(!) at just 18 (08:50)How unhealthy nutrition choices have been ingrained in our culture—and how its a cycle that needs to be stopped (18:28)We're allowed to be annoyed by our kids (24:51)Connect with Raquel:WebsiteInstagramTikTokLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode contains discussion of self-harm and suicide that some listeners may find disturbing. Sometimes, after the unexpected passing of someone who looks and seems happy in their life, it can send those of us left behind into introspection mode. The truth is that life will always have highs and lows—and that's okay. It's what we do in the moments between that matters most. Today, I'm back and flying solo after a bit of a December hibernation.Tune in and listen to episode fifty nine of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. I'm talking about life's gray areas, embracing the human experience, and my experience working a job that seemed glamorous on the outside but was really anything but. In This Episode, You Will Learn:We lost so many beautiful people in December, it made for a very unusual holiday season (05:39)We're not supposed to be joyful all the time (07:37)It's a waste of energy to think your life won't have bumpy moments (09:27)Just because we're parents doesn't mean we have to throw out everything else (13:13)I'm sharing the oath of manifestation (15:18)Let's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How many of us have the job today that we dreamt of when we were kids? If life happened that way, there would be an awful lot of ballerinas and firefighters! Of course, we evolve as humans and learn to take on new roles, even ones we never imagined ourselves in. But oftentimes, the key to success is simply to shift—and to not be afraid of doing it!Today I have Tamala Lewis with me, my sister-from-another-mister and mama of two. Tamala serves as Senior Director of Community Affairs for AEG's Dignity Health Sports Park. She also has her hands in the music business, fashion design, and is a former professional backup dancer.Tune in and listen to episode 58 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Tamala is telling me all about having a massive new project come to fruition 2 days before lockdown started, her crazy career path, and how she integrates her family into the work that she does for the community.In This Episode, You Will Learn:A little about Tamala's background—and about being roommates with Rosie Perez (04:54)How Tamala makes time for her family with her busy schedule (10:43)It's all a learning experience! (13:41)About Tamala's relationship with her husband (14:41)The biggest challenge to raising kids in 2022 (18:16)Connect with Tamala:InstagramLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Over the last few years, we've all started to get in touch with our truth. We've been faced with some incredibly difficult revelations about the world—and one of the heaviest ones is the true story behind Thanksgiving.Today, I'm on my own and offering a reset for the last month of 2022—because Lord knows we all need it. Tune in and listen to episode fifty seven of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Every day we're assaulted with the facts of this ugly world but we have power to wield that can change it all. The most important thing we can remember, especially at this time of year, is to give ourselves and others all the grace that we need to get through it.In This Episode, You Will Learn:If we support the term “Thanksgiving,” which is rooted in genocide and hate, then we are complicit (07:59)2022 is my half-century year (11:45)Our greatest power—and our obligation—is our right to vote (15:03)Everyone should try therapy, even if you had a beautiful childhood (16:43)We all strive to be perfect moms, wives, entrepreneurs… but it's all a trap (19:42)If you want to scream this holiday, go ahead and scream! (22:36)Let's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're living in such a complicated, ugly time. So many of us are feeling maligned and marginalized, but what we really need is to come together. The thing is, we humans are complicated, but we all speak a common language. We all love music. We all love to dance. And we all love to party… So for this week, let's put our differences aside and celebrate those commonalities.Today, I'm welcoming bona fide rockstar, brand new mama, and my friend, Nik West. Nik is a bassist who has worked with musical royalty like Prince and Quincy Jones and has served as a composer for Disney. She's also the CEO of Bass Domination, an online bass course.Tune in and listen to episode 56 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Nik and I talk about her unexpected journey to motherhood, international travel with an infant (!), and the benefits of moving abroad.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The things that set Nik and her family apart and make them unique (08:10)Nik's trick for battling jet lag (11:48)How Nik and her husband combine their private lives with their work lives (14:57)Nik's meet-cute with her husband (19:23)Nik's mom is the Leo to her Aquarius (23:47)Connect with Nik:InstagramOn SpotifyLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Career burnout, financial hardship, a rough breakup… sometimes we just need a major shift in the energy around us. But what does that mean to you? Is it a new hairstyle, a new job, a new partner? What about picking up and moving across the world?Today, I'm chatting with Imani Bashir, a journalist, expat, entrepreneur, and boy mama. She works toward empowering marginalized people and creating content that shifts culture.Tune in and listen to episode 55 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Imani and I talk about the history of enslaved African Muslims in the US, her amazing experience living in Wuhan, China, and raising our children to be in love with their beautiful brown skin.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Where Imani was in her life when she decided to move abroad (01:37)A little about Imani's background as a Black Muslim (06:24)The transcontinental journey that brought Imani to Mexico (14:39)Sandra Bland's murder was one of Imani's biggest reasons for leaving the states (21:36)How Imani's son's confidence has shaped his relationship with his peers and his environment (28:54)Connect with Imani:InstagramWebsiteLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mamas, we are smack dab in the middle of election season. There are a lot of narratives, a lot of opinions, and a lot of conflicting ideologies that are all hitting a fever pitch right now. The anxiety is just tap dancing on our nervous systems. But here's the thing: It's up to us to be responsible citizens. We no longer live in a time where we have the privilege to check out. Today, I welcome my friend Mara S. Campo , a four time Emmy winning journalist and mama of two. Mara frequently appears on CNN, MSNBC, and Peacock commentating on race, culture, and social justice. She has previously worked as a correspondent for Good Morning America and the Today Show.Tune in and listen to episode 54 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Mara and I are talking about the importance of our natural hair journeys (and those of our daughters), why it's so important to protect our energy, and how she shifted her career focus to avoid burnout.In This Episode, You Will Learn:One of Mara's favorite work stories—featuring Tracee Ellis Ross (05:02)The ways Mara has seen the news industry evolve since she started (11:56)How Mara makes sure she keeps her energy up in a volatile industry (14:39)What Mara does to protect her daughter from negativity (23:16)How it feels as a Black woman to come up in predominantly white spaces (29:52)Connect with Mara:InstagramTwitterLinkedInLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Growing up, there were very few examples of authentic-feeling Black love in the media. Sure, we had the Huxtables and the Winslows, but their stories were always centered around the kids—very rarely did we see a kiss or even a hug between Cliff and Clair or Carl and Harriette. But real life isn't all pecks on the cheek and wholesome family time… We deserve to see the hardships and the joys, the love and the struggles of Black love.Today, I'm talking to Codie Elaine Oliver, a mommy, wife, and CEO of Black Love Inc. Codie founded Black Love Inc with her husband, Tommy, and it is the premier Black-owned platform for celebrating authentic Black love across television, digital, and social media.Tune in and listen to episode 53 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Codie talks to me about growing a business with three kids at home, her thoughts going into the final season of her show, Black Love on OWN, and why they live in a “no news” household.In This Episode, You Will Learn:How running Black Love Inc affects Codie's relationship with her husband (06:19)What it was like for Codie to go from one child to three when her twins were born (12:24)About Codie's relationship with her old school mama (18:44)How Codie works to keep her kids spiritually and emotionally safe in these wild times (21:32)Black Love struggles with the algorithm just like everyone else (28:46)How Codie and Tommy split their childcare duties (36:16)Connect with Codie:InstagramBlackLove.comWatch Black Love on OWNMy New BFF with Codie Elaine OliverLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode contains a frank discussion of mental illness that some listeners may find potentially disturbing. Welcome to the one year anniversary of Mamaste with Tanika Ray! There have been times in my life where I felt like I couldn't commit (and times when I definitely didn't…) but I'm proud to say that I've once again proven to myself that I am capable. To put out 52 podcast episodes in a row is not easy, y'all! But I am so glad that I've done it.Today, I'm talking to comedian, mama, and my girlfriend, Angelina Spicer. In addition to being a TikTok sensation, Angelina is also an accidental activist dedicated to normalizing postpartum depression and proving that it can be something to laugh about.Tune in and listen to episode 52 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Angelina and I are covering all things mental health, how she describes herself as a mama, and what it's like to be a mama raising a young daughter in the year 2022.In This Episode, You Will Learn:How Angelina's daughter navigates having a Black mother and a white father (14:52)The support Angelina offers when she notices her daughter questioning herself (19:32)Why monitoring the media our kids consume is so important (26:37)What Angelina's PPD looked like and how she was able to come out of it (36:39)A little more about postpartum depression and the ways it can affect women (43:24)Connect with Angelina:InstagramTikTokPostpartum resourcesLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I'm what you might call a commitment-phobe. I have a little bit of an issue committing to things, whether it's a class, a workout, a relationship… or even hosting a podcast! I try not to put anything on myself because it's expected or because it's the right thing to do, even when it is. That's why I'm so grateful that today, I have nearly an entire year of episodes under my belt. Today, I'm flying solo and allowing myself a little bit of reflection as I come up on the year anniversary of hosting Mamaste. Tune in and listen to episode fifty one of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. I'm talking about why it's so important for me to save me from myself, the crazy amount of work I cover in just one day as a single mom, and why I'm happy being single… but I'm willing to find out how a man would fit into my life. In This Episode, You Will Learn:I have fear surrounding me, but I'm dedicated to helping myself through my mental health challenges (07:49)World Mental Health Day is the same day as National Kick Butt Day (12:15)A breakdown of a day-in-the-life of Tanika (15:11)I like being in relationships… but I've also learned a lot of lessons about romance over the years (22:40)If it serves you, keep it, if it doesn't, throw it away (32:06)Let's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So many of us want a new life, to change the course we're on, to make a shift... You can look at the times we're in as dark and scary, or you can see them as an opportunity to stretch yourself and allow yourself the room to grow.Today, you'll hear part two of my conversation with my sis and your friend Malinda Williams. Malinda has been on our TV screens and in our hearts for decades, starring in everything from Soul Food to Daddy's Little Girls. She has had an incredible roller coaster of a life that's been textured with successes and loves and divorces and children and she has so much to teach us.Tune in and listen to episode 50 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Malinda and I talk about the power of the word “no,” the complications that arise when mommying and being a working actress, and the very careful ways we have to move through the world as the mamas of Black children.In This Episode, You Will Learn:How Malinda dealt with being a brand new mommy and shooting Soul Food at the same time (07:24)The way the events of the last few years have affected Malinda and her son (14:32)How Malinda had to learn to talk to her son about his complicated station as a Black man in America—without creating a self-fulfilling prophecy (17:44)How Malinda has navigated microaggressions and discrimination in Hollywood (24:04)Some of Malinda's secrets to achieve her signature sunkissed beauty (26:05)What Malinda has to say about her previous relationships with famous men (33:16)Connect with Malinda:InstagramShe's Got a HabitThe Game of Life and How to Slay It by Melinda WilliamsLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of my greatest hopes for this podcast is that I can create a space of elevated thought and peace. I have worked toward intentionally creating this space so that we can see ourselves, we can feel a kindred spirit, and we can feel a sisterhood with women all over the world. That's why I feature women who have achieved incredible things all while nurturing, raising, and taking care of a whole other human being besides themselves.Today, I welcome my sis and your friend Malinda Williams. Malinda has been on our TV screens and in our hearts for decades, starring in everything from Soul Food to Daddy's Little Girls. She has had an incredible roller coaster of a life that's been textured with successes and loves and divorces and children and she has so much to teach us.Tune in and listen to episode 49 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Malinda and I talk about what it was like to work on a new show and go through a divorce with a brand new baby, learning how and when to surrender, and how I credit my ex for my spirituality.In This Episode, You Will Learn:It's so rare in Hollywood to have women supporting women (10:14)Everything happens in divine timing (11:27)The season of Malinda's life that she was in when she started on Soul Food (13:44)How Malinda was given a second family with the Soul Food cast (21:08)Connect with Malinda:InstagramShe's Got a HabitThe Game of Life and How to Slay It by Melinda WilliamsLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wake up at dawn, get home after dark, no breaks in between… sound familiar? So many of us are burning the candle at both ends in both our careers and our home lives, but at what price? By not allowing ourselves space to rest and recover, we're only hurting ourselves and our loved ones—mentally, physically, and emotionally. Today, I welcome my amazing mommy friend Ashunta Sheriff-Kendricks. Ashunta is an Emmy-nominated makeup artist who has worked on everything from Academy Award-winning movies to Emmy-winning TV shows and with some of the most iconic divas in the music industry.Tune in and listen to episode 48 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Ashunta is telling me what it's like to work on set with the amazing cast of The Best Man: The Final Chapters, why it's good to be scared, and the soul connection she has with her husband that's unlike any relationship she's ever had.In This Episode, You Will Learn:About some of the incredible divas Ashunta has had a chance to work with (04:40)Why you have to create your own bliss instead of always searching for the next best thing (10:34)Don't ever fall for someone just because they look good on paper (16:35)How Ashunta balances her crazy successful career with being a mommy (18:41)The key to avoiding job burnout? Loving what you do (28:22)Connect with Ashunta:InstagramTwitterAshunta Sheriff BeautyResources mentioned:Because of Them We Can subscription boxMocha MomsBlack Moms ConnectionBlack Queens of DurhamUnlearnLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've ever given birth, how much did you really know about the process beforehand? Were you prepared for the pain? How long the whole thing might last? The mommy-sized diapers?! So much of mommyhood is shrouded in mystery until we actually get there, but there's no reason for that to be the case. By opening up about our experiences, we can demystify it for those who come after us. Today, I welcome Chen and Lei, the hosts of the While They Nap podcast. Chen and Lei are two mamas navigating their way through this crazy thing we call mommyhood—and podcasting about it!Tune in and listen to episode 47 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Chen, Lei, and I are talking about the tumultuous time for women that we're living in, what it's like for them as women in Canada, and why it's so important for us mamas to have a support group.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Why it's so important to work toward a sense of peace, especially if it means tuning out all the other distractions (04:42)Healthy boundaries are integral in maintaining your sanity (05:43)How the tone change in the US has become palpable over the last few years (08:01)Why we have to look beyond formal education to teach our children about their culture and their power (09:33)How Chen and Lei met and started While They Nap (13:49)Connect with Chen & Lei:While They Nap on IGListen to WTNResources mentioned:Because of Them We Can subscription boxMocha MomsBlack Moms ConnectionBlack Queens of DurhamUnlearnLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mamas, we are in a global reality check. It's been proven—even though we thought we were for so long, we are not fine. The good news? There are people out there who have made it their mission to help clean up this giant mess we've found ourselves in. Today, I'm sitting down with Dr. Jessica Shepherd. Jessica is a mama and OB/GYN dedicated to helping women broach taboo health topics. She is also the founder of Her Viewpoint, an online women's health forum, Chief Medical Officer of Verywell Health, and CEO and founder of Sanctum Med & Wellness, a social wellness club in Dallas.Tune in and listen to episode 46 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Jessica is telling me all about her background in wellness, why it's so hard to discipline ourselves, and why so many Americans are plagued by chronic illness. We're also talking about how we have to acknowledge the ugly side of ourselves before we can get well and how we do (and don't) approach the subject of gun violence in schools with our kids. In This Episode, You Will Learn:How Jessica encourages her clients to be proactive about their health (03:32)Why 80% of Black women in America suffer from uterine fibroids (09:22)The boundaries around work that Jessica sets with her family (12:57)Why Jessica believes that gun violence is a public health crisis (16:58)What it was like for Jessica growing up in a first generation Canadian household (21:55)How Jessica keeps herself centered and authentic while she's in the public eye (25:34)Connect with Dr. Jessica Shepherd:WebsiteInstagramLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Summer may not be officially over here in the western hemisphere, but it is officially back to school season for kids and mamas alike. It means back to work, back to goals, and back to intentions for all of us. This year, I'd like you to view the new school year as not just a return to the grind, but also a chance for both you and your babies to level up.Today, I have a guest joining me that I've spoken of many times, but have never officially welcomed to the show. I'm joined by my one and only Munch, AKA my daughter Nyla, for a candid conversation.Tune in and listen to episode forty-five of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. I'm sharing with you a real life mamaste moment and a conversation that I think is incredibly important as we head into fall. You'll hear Nyla and I talk boundaries, especially those around our bodies, and why they're so important for us to have. I also talk about learning to honor an emotional child's emotions and I'm celebrating many of the amazing mamas I've featured on Mamaste so far.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Gentle parenting can be tense! (06:08)It's important that I throw my daughter a love bomb in order to counterbalance moments of discipline (10:30)Nyla's dad and I have very different methods of parenting—and that complicates things (15:30)About some of the incredible moms who I've talked to on Mamaste over the last 45 episodes (18:58)When the kids go back to school, it's time for us to get back in touch with ourselves (35:44)Let's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

These days, it seems like most of our time is spent “doom scrolling” Instagram and TikTok… but what is that actually doing to our minds? What you're consuming through your phone is just as important as what you're putting into your body, especially for children. The next time you've spent the afternoon scrolling, take a step back and evaluate how it's really made you feel—it might just be time to step back, reassess, and take a good long break.Today, you'll hear part two of my interview with Mumu Fresh. Mumu, AKA Maimouna Youssef, is a Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, and MC who's also a mama making her way in the wild world of the music industry.Tune in and listen to episode forty four of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Mumu and I do a little bit of rapid fire Q&A and talk about how she is determined to raise her child devoid of generational trauma, toxicity, and outside influences.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The greatest thing Mumu's son has taught her (04:04)Mumu's best mommy hack (08:33)What Mumu wishes she'd known about giving birth before it happened (09:16)Why Mumu is grateful for some of the things her mother didn't introduce her to (16:19)Mumu's three favorite books that inspire her as a mommy (21:34)What Mumu tells her son about navigating the world so that fear isn't at the forefront (25:43)Resources mentioned:books by Wayne DyerThe Alchemist by Paulo CoelhoSet Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab Connect with Mumu Fresh:InstagramWebsiteiTunesLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Every motherhood journey is different. Whether you're doing it on your own, with a partner, or you have a whole damn village on your side, this mommying thing is hard work. But the one thing we all need, regardless of our relationship status? LOVE. Whether it's a lover, a friend, a parent, a sibling… We all need a shoulder to cry on, to commiserate with, and to support us— because the mama journey shouldn't have to be a lonely one. Today, you'll hear part two of my conversation with Ananda Lewis. Ananda is my incredible sista friend who came to fame on BET's teen summit and reigned as a VJ and host in MTV's heyday. Ananda is an amazing mother who is focused on breaking generational curses and unapologetically teaching her child about race and his role in this world.Tune in and listen to episode 43 of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Ananda is telling me all about her healing journey and where she stands now with her cancer diagnosis. We're also talking about the importance of love and support for moms, taking time for ourselves, and Black Girl Magic. Ananda and I are truly aligned; we both live life outside the box, and I hope you get a chance to hear that in our conversation.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The specific diet Ananda follows in order to keep herself in cancer-fighting shape (04:30)The three things Ananda must have in order to be her best mommy self (07:33)Ananda's greatest mommy hack (14:30)Ananda's 7-year-old son's incredible reaction when she told him about her illness (16:34)How Ananda is raising her son to honor and respect girls (27:53)Ananda on her own personal theme song (31:10)Check out part one of my conversation with Ananda right here.Connect with Ananda Lewis InstagramLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Your big feelings are acceptable, too, mama. Your rage, your anger, your fear, your guilt, your irritation—you're not always going to like being a mom. That shit is normal.” There are only two ways of parenting. Yes, you read that right! Of course, there are a million different techniques and philosophies we can follow to raise our children… But when it comes down to it, you either parent how you were parented OR you make a conscious decision to break whatever cycle you emerged from.Today, you'll hear part two of my interview with Manifest Destini AKA Destini Ann. Destini is a mama of two who uses her profound, Maya-Angelou-like wisdom to promote intentional parenting. Destini takes the psychology of parenting and turns it into fun, digestible content for her community.Tune in and listen to episode forty two of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Destini and I talk about what her village looks like, her thoughts on anxiety, depression, and ADHD, and why it's so incredibly important to make sure that we're the models our kids deserve.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Sometimes even your child's most unpleasant phases are totally developmentally normal (05:50)As parents, we need to take a pause and make sure we're honoring our children as fully formed human beings (11:26)Some of the frustrations that come with parenting an extremely resilient child (19:45)What co-parenting looks like for Destini and her family (22:48)Kids often don't remember what you do. They remember how you make them feel (26:21)That black women often have trouble putting themselves first(32:56)Listen to part 1 of my interview with Destini Ann here!Connect with Destini Ann:WebsiteInstagramTikTokFacebookLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Conscious parenting.” If you're a regular listener, you've heard me use the phrase countless times. During my pregnancy, I was in total denial about parenting before I stumbled upon the concept of conscious parenting. It was the only thing that made me feel confident about raising a child when I was completely lost and totally petrified. Today, I'm welcoming back Dr. Shefali Tsabary for part two of our conversation. She is an acclaimed author, international speaker, New York Times best seller, and fellow mama. Her blend of clinical psychology and eastern mindfulness has set her apart as a leader in the field of mindfulness psychology. She also speaks at events around the globe, spreading her message of conscious parenting and mindful living.Tune in and listen to episode forty one of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Dr. Shefali is giving real, authentic, and unapologetic answers to all of my questions. We're talking about how our children inspire us and what we've learned from them and Dr. Shefali is telling me how her daughter's incredible spirit was the catalyst for conscious parenting.Some questions you'll hear answered:If you had to bring three non-negotiable things to your mommy journey, what would they be? (09:32)What are the five must-have parenting rules? (11:20)What is your favorite guilty pleasure? (20:11)How do you see humanity? What is the greatest thing that we can do to help shift collectively? (27:25)Is there an amount of detachment that gets you through the day? (30:09)Connect with Dr. Shefali:WebsiteInstagramA Radical Awakening by Dr. Shefali TsabaryThe Conscious Parent by Dr. Shefali TsabaryPeople mentioned:Kita Rose on IGLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Out of all of the many spaces I've belonged to, none have felt quite as fitting as “mom.” My mommy transformation has been an incredible, life altering ride, but in the end, I wouldn't trade this gig for the world. Today, I'm welcoming a new mama friend, Nubia Henderson. Nubia is the founder of kids jamm and Legacy of Love, two programs designed and dedicated to helping the African American community heal intergenerational trauma and create a legacy of love by incorporating the tools of breathwork, movement and meditation into daily life.Tune in and listen to episode forty of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Nubia and I talk about how we are blessed with our children, the power of the mama collective on social media, and breaking the cycle of generational trauma with your own babies.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Nubia and I share a lot of similarities with our roads to mommyhood (03:56)How Nubia used her pregnancy to prepare herself for motherhood (05:57)Nubia's mission: to make yoga and the mind-body connection accessible (12:08)Presence is key (15:25)Some of Nubia's favorite yogis to follow on social media (20:00)Why women should prioritize the mind-body connection (23:25)Connect with Nubia:InstagramWebsiteYogis referenced:Chelsea Loves Yoga (Chelsea Jackson)Yirser Ra HotepOctavia RaheemKrishna Kaur KhalsaLana Reed (formerly Shakta Khalsa)Previous episodes mentioned:Dr. Shefali, Radically & Consciously REAL AFManifest Mommying AF with Destiny AnnYoung Love Journey to Mama Influencer with Destiny BennetLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Doesn't it feel about time for a little midsummer pick-me-up and palate cleanser? I know I could certainly use one. It's so important, even when times are dark, to make sure that we're prioritizing love, light, and positivity. Today, I'm welcoming Brely Evans, my mama friend and one of the brightest lights there is. Not only is she a gorgeous, illuminating presence, she's also an actress, a producer, and a queen of Instagram and TikTok.Tune in and listen to episode thirty nine of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Brely tells me how she's never given up on her dream of giving birth, the power of practicing daily “I Ams”, and never letting your fears get in the way. We also talk about the relationship that inspired her song “Don't Date Down” and why everything she touches turns to gold.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Brely's journey to mommyhood and her message to mommies in waiting (02:47)How Brely is raising her son as a black man with love for himself (08:18)The unique spirituality outside of religion that Brely lives by (12:58)Why Brely trusts her gut above all else (15:56)Brely's favorite saying: “I don't network, I let God work.” (20:08)Why you should find a mate who's life you find attractive (28:44)Where you can watch Brely (33:26)Connect with Brely:InstagramWebsiteTikTokDownload "Don't Date Down"Let's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Let's be real: there are a lot of things going on in our atmosphere right now. We're going through a paradigm shift and the way we make money is quickly changing—the way it worked before won't be the way it works in the future. As women, we have to realize that it's time to stop being an employee and become an employer… And nobody is doing that more successfully than we are! Today, I'm chatting with Rochelle Graham Campbell, CEO, natural hair guru, and mama bird. Rochelle founded Alikay Naturals, a beauty & lifestyle brand that prioritizes high quality ingredients, from her kitchen as a college student and has since taken the company world wide.Tune in and listen to episode thirty eight of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Rochelle is telling me about getting her start on YouTube, her inspiration, and falling in love with her hair. We also talk about her big switch from pre-law to creating a hair care line and how growing up in Jamaica influenced Alikay and the ingredients she uses.In This Episode, You Will Learn:All about Rochelle's Big Chop (07:37)How Rochelle's early mistakes informed her journey to natural hair sage (12:16)About the creation of Rochelle's first product and how it sold out—instantly! (15:07) My own decision to wear my hair natural and what it means to me (21:03)Different textures aren't good or bad—they're just different (22:31)About Rochelle's mommying journey (25:50)Connect with Rochelle & Alikay:Rochelle on InstagramAlikay Naturals on Instagram Alikay Naturals websiteLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

We all have so many emotions running through us these days—especially those of us in the supposed “Land of the Free”—that we need to push ourselves out of the survival mode slump. As much as it feels like the world is on fire, it's incredibly important to focus on calming our nervous systems and seeing that light at the end of the tunnel.Today, I'm sitting down with Allah-mi Basheer, a mama and intuitive self-mastery coach focused on banishing limiting beliefs and facilitating self-discovery. Allah-mi has the incredible gift of being able to help people reclaim their power, calm their nervous system, and rediscover their confidence.Tune in and listen to episode thirty-seven of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Allah-mi and I are talking about raising twins, the challenges of co-parenting, and her divine mission. We also cover being great every day and the power of language as a difference-maker. In This Episode, You Will Learn:Allah-mi and I share a grounding, mindful moment to kick things off (11:50)Allah-mi's journey with mommyhood (14:50)Allah-mi's five mental hygiene strategies that make up her Be Great Everyday philosophy (24:53)Whether you think you can or you think you can't—you're right (32:58)The only thing that's constant is change (40:49)Connect with Allah-mi:InstagramWebsiteFacebookLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the state of the world today—and especially after the events of the last few weeks—it can feel impossible to achieve any levity. Over and over again we're knocked under by waves of grief and anger, but the most important thing we can do is develop a coping strategy. If we embrace these positive rituals and welcome love and light into our lives, it can make even these most trying times a little easier. Today, I'm welcoming Gwen Osborne, a friend and mama who is a beacon of bright light. In addition to being a mommy, Gwen is an actor, speaker, wellness coach, and hosts her own podcast, Tea with Gwen.Tune in and listen to episode thirty six of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Gwen and I are talking love, divorce, and we even get a little personal. We also discuss what it was like for Gwen to come into mommyhood at a young age and her complicated relationship with her own mother.In This Episode, You Will Learn:All about Gwen's kids (08:29)Why I refuse to fill my space with anything but light these days (12:07)How Gwen made her way to LA from England (17:53)How mommyhood and the path to get there is evolving--and what that means for us (25:37) The dire straits of dating in LA (31:37)Connect with Gwen:InstagramWebsiteTea with Gwen podcastTikTokLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's no great revelation that we as mothers wear many, many hats. We may be career women, but we're also often the CEO of the household, the executive chef, the resident therapist, the director of family activities… It can be a lot! Striking work-life balance is something that many of us spend decades searching for, but we spend so much time looking that it's hard to see the forest for the trees. The truth is, as mamas, we deserve to be nurtured, too. Today, I welcome entrepreneur, executive, producer, media personality, and fabulous mama of two Nicole Friday. Nicole is also an accomplished culinary influencer and the president and general manager of ABFF Ventures, LLC, the entertainment company behind the American Black Film Festival.Tune in and listen to episode thirty five of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Nicole and I talk about our experiences mommying through the pandy and how it strengthened our familial connections. We also cover why it's so important that mamas take care of themselves, prioritizing “me” time, and why home should be a mama's favorite place.In This Episode, You Will Learn:How Nicole balances her mommy life with her professional boss life (07:22)What the pandemic taught Nicole about herself (14:43)Nicole's pre-pandy self-care ritual (16:18)How Nicole and her husband have navigated having two Black teenage sons (25:04)All about the ABFF and Nicole's role in the organization (30:00)Connect with Nicole:Nicole's InstagramAmerican Black Film Festival on IGLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode contains sexually explicit content. Who in your circle always has your back, no matter what? It's so important that the people we surround ourselves with during our pregnancy are people that make us feel good about ourselves, help us through the challenging moments, and make the transition into motherhood smooth and full of love. Today, I am joined by the dynamic duo, Monique Jackson and Kita Williams. They are PR partners that met at Def Jam in their early 20s and then went into business together and ran things in LA. When they were representing Terrell Owens they successfully sold a reality show about him called The T.O. Show and also were asked to star alongside him about navigating the life of a football star and his fabulous PR queens.Tune in and listen to episode thirty-four of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Monique, Kita, and I have a great conversation about our journeys to mommy-hood. We talk about why it's important to let your tribe help you throughout your pregnancy, how our priorities will shift in our life, IVF experiences, and how our sexuality does not die when we become mothers! In This Episode, You Will Learn:That it's normal for priorities in our life to fluctuate over time (6:30)Why it's important to remember to rest when you're pregnant (23:49)How Monique and Kita supported each other during their pregnancies (27:30)About her IVF experience (33:33)That our sexuality doesn't die once we become mothers (43:26)Connect with Monique and Kita Monique's InstagramKita's InstagramLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

There are countless things that motherhood throws our way, much of which we can't prepare for. Whether it's the way our body changes, how our schedule gets flipped upside down, or the new dynamic of co-parenting with a partner, motherhood can feel like our whole identity. But it IS possible to be a mother, a great partner, and pursue your passions, you just have to give yourself grace along the way. Today, I am joined by Crystal Wall, business owner, dance and fitness guru, mother, and wife to popular rapper Paul Wall. While being an amazing mother and maintaining the success of her and Paul's 15 year marriage, Crystal also leads dance fitness classes weekly to help get other mom's get out of the house, move their body, and build their confidence Tune in and listen to episode thirty-three of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Crystal and I have a great conversation about the story of her and Paul's relationship, what her experience has been raising a family in Texas, why nothing can prepare you for motherhood, and how she began running her dance fitness classes. In This Episode, You Will Learn:Our thoughts on spoiling our children (5:16)How Crystal and her husband Paul Wall met and got together (8:11)Crystal's perspective on soul connection (15:19)About Crystal's family experience living in Texas (16:14)Why nothing can prepare you for motherhood (20:30)Crystal's dancing and fitness journey (24:12)Resources MentionedRed Table Talk with Tanika RayIyanla: Fix My Life with LisaRaye McCoyConnect with CrystalInstagramLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

The relationship between a mother and her daughter is one of the most complicated dynamics to understand. When we have these difficult relationships with our own mother, parenting our daughter can trigger our inner child that still has healing to do. Being the mother you never had for your daughter while setting boundaries with your own mother is a challenging, but healing experience. Today, I am joined by LisaRaye McCoy, a widely successful actress, humanitarian, entrepreneur, director, and mother. Since her movie debut in 1996, Lisa has appeared many times in a variety of television series, music videos, and movies. She is most known for her role in The Players Club, The Wood, and Civil Brand. In 2021, LisaRaye appeared on the show, Iyanla: Fix My Life, in which she shares the difficult relationship she has with her mom, what she is doing to try to mend the relationship, and how she is working to be a different mother for her daughter.Tune in and listen to episode thirty-two of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. First, I share my reflection on my appearance on the Red Table Talk and why it was such an emotional conversation for me. Then I am joined by LisaRaye to talk about her experience healing her relationship with her mother, the impact that therapy has had on her journey, the importance of setting boundaries, and more. In This Episode, You Will Learn:Reflecting on my appearance on the Red Table Talk (3:10)That there is no one way to be a great mother (12:17)About LisaRaye's experience working through her relationship with her mother (15:15)The tools LisaRaye has turned to in her healing (19:39)How LisaRaye and I have learned to set boundaries with our mothers (24:20)Resources MentionedRed Table Talk with Tanika RayIyanla: Fix My Life with LisaRaye McCoyConnect with LisaRaye McCoyInstagramLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Navigating motherhood and marriage is full of trials and tribulations that require unlearning, re-learning, and being in a constant pursuit of personal growth. There will always be hard times, but intentionally responding to the challenges will keep you grounded to your values so you can show up as the best version of yourself as both a mother and a partner. Today, I am joined for a second time by Destiny Bennet. Destiny is a parent coach, blogger, content creator, speaker, and author of Revised Not Repeated: A Brown Mom's Guide to Breaking Generational Curses In Parenting. As the mother of three boys, Destiny wrote her book as a motherhood guide for changing toxic generational patterns in parenting and creating a healthier, happier bond between moms and their children.Tune in and listen to episode thirty-one of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Destiny and I talk about her experience being a young mother in a young marriage, how she is teaching her children healthy habits, why her family has decided to move into a tiny home, and so much more. Destiny's advice on intentional parenting and building a healthy marriage is fantastic for mothers and wives of all ages and backgrounds. In This Episode, You Will Learn:How Destiny met her husband and her reflection on marrying at a young age (10:20)About Destiny's background prior to becoming a Mama influencer (15:16)Destiny's passion for teaching her children healthy living (23:54)Why Destiny's family is living in a tiny home (30:28)Destiny's advice for listeners (38:07)Connect with Destiny Bennett InstagramBook - Revised Not RepeatedLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you reconnect to your truest self? As a mom, staying connected to your authentic self is not only important for your sense of identity but also for your confidence in parenting. It can be easy to forget that the way our parents raised us is not the only way for us to parent our own children. Staying aligned with your values will help you to make the necessary changes to stop the generational patterns of parenting. Today, I am joined by Satrah Anuket, the author of From Fear to Freedom: Utilizing the 7 Universal Laws to shift one's mindset, habits, and behaviors. Satrah has always felt deeply connected to nature, the Universe, and her inner spiritual light. She has recently left her corporate marketing career to pursue her lifelong goals of entrepreneurship and writing. Satrah is passionate about living her life by the 7 Universal Laws and applies them as the foundation for parenting her two boys.Tune in and listen to episode thirty of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Satrah and I talk about her spiritual awakening, the generational differences in how we were raised versus how we are parenting, how the 7 Universal Laws influence her parenting, and so much more. I hope this episode with Satrah inspires you to reconnect with yourself and your values! In This Episode, You Will Learn:About Satrah's spiritual awakening (5:53)What to expect from a spiritual awakening (8:37)How Satrah has applied the 7 Universal Laws to her parenting (9:50)Who inspired and impacted Satrah's parenting (13:55)Satrah's 5 non negotiables for parenting (22:04)Connect with Satrah AnuketBook - From Fear to FreedomWebsiteInstagramResources MentionedBook - Mother HungerBook - Happy DaysLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

“You can learn to become your own best parent” As a mom, there is mourning for what you are providing your children that you didn't get from your own parents, but we can learn to become our own best parent when we take action towards healing our inner child.Today, I'm doing a solo episode about how it's important for us moms to mother ourselves. Do you tend to keep yourself busy and distracted so you don't have to address the trauma from your own childhood? Ignoring the pain doesn't make it go away, it just allows it to continue to grow bigger and bigger. Addressing and uncovering childhood trauma is incredibly difficult and can bring up confusing emotions, but it will ultimately lead you to becoming a better mother for your own children. Tune in and listen to episode twenty-nine of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. I talk about the deep and emotional inner work that I have been focusing on and what I have learned about mothering myself. I share the realizations I have had about my complex relationship with my own mother, books that have changed my perspective on motherhood, what I do when I am triggered, and so much more. In This Episode, You Will Learn:How I spent Mother's Day (4:31)To connect with your inner child as a mother (07:19)About the book Mother Hunger and how it has completely shifted my perspective on motherhood (13:23)Why I turn to self-isolation when I am triggered (18:51)The two different ways we mother our children (24:25)Resources MentionedBook - Mother HungerBook - Happy DaysLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Happy belated Mother's Day! The mission of this podcast is to celebrate mothers for all the things that we do, manage, navigate, overcome, and so much more. Being a mother is the hardest job there is but it is the most rewarding.Today, I'm talking to Ananda Lewis, an incredible woman who became famous as a DJ and TV host on MTV. Ananda has been publicly battling cancer, sharing her strength, diving into her personal healing, and staying connected to her inner truth. Ananda is an amazing mother who has focused on breaking generational curses, teaching her children about race, and making decisions that have her family's best interest.Tune in and listen to episode twenty-eight of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Ananda and I talk about her cancer diagnosis, the difficult moments she has overcome as a mother, how the Will Smith incident at the Oscars impacted her personally, and so much more. Ananda and I are in true alignment with our parenting and way of life and I am so excited to share this conversation with you!In This Episode, You Will Learn:What Ananda believes led to her cancer diagnosis (6:15)How Ananda is breaking generational curses with her parenting (10:50)The difficult moment Ananda had after becoming a mom (18:45)How Will Smith slapping Chris Rock impacted Ananda's parenting (24:23)How leaving her relationship and the pandemic impacted Ananda's life (29:56)Connect with Ananda Lewis InstagramLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

As mothers of black, brown, or immigrant children, we have a big responsibility to recognize the ways that the education and social systems do not serve them and take the initiative to fill in those gaps ourselves. We are our children's first educators by teaching them to stand up for themselves and others and live an authentic life. Today, I'm talking to Keri Shahidi - mother, actress, and executive producer of 7th Sun Productions. Keri is the mother of two beautiful children named Sayeed and Yara who have followed in her acting footsteps. Keri's son, Sayeed has appeared in Alex Cross, Unthinkable, and Intelligence and her daughter Yara has acted in Black-ish, Grown-ish, and more. She has raised her children to be conscious activists in social issues, follow their purpose, and hold onto their narrative.Tune in and listen to episode twenty-seven of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Keri and I have a wonderful conversation about her diverse bubble growing up, why she is passionate about educating her children, her mindset about their acting careers, and what she dreams of for their future.In This Episode, You Will Learn:About Keri's experience growing up (11:38)Keri's thoughts about advocating for our children's education (17:42)How Keri has raised her children to be conscious activists (21:58)Keri's mindset about her children's dating life (32:35)What Keri's dream is for her children's future (38:50)Resources Mentioned: Book - The 5 AM ClubConnect with Keri ShahidiInstagramLet's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitter Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.