Melanin Uncorked Podcast

This weeks #WineDownWednesday we are discussing 2020 & then some. A recap of the year, mental health especially as it relates to black men and so much more. Wine of the Week: Dark Horse 'Sparkling Brut' 12% ACV Business of the Week: @_themillennialmoms Founded by Morgan Tyler Quote of the Week: "The secret of being happy is accepting where you are in life and making the most of every day" Guests Handles: @rudy_jefferson @berri_berry @justjtt @mizzshay Happy Holidays!

Ep. 54 - Black Girl Magic This episode is featuring my sister, Brandie. LETS UNCORK with our wine for the week, Black Girl Magic "Red Blend" (2018) 13.5% ABV by the McBride Sisters. Make sure you go out to vote; 45 refusing to participate in the next presidential debate. But are we surprised? Why do UNO think they can tell us how to play? WINE DOWN as we discuss motherhood, what it feels like to be a new mom and the reality of it all. Business of the Week: Lip Love Line (@liploveline) by Bri Williams Quote of the Week: "Healing Takes Time" Guest Handles: @amazinglybee_

Ep. 53 LETS UNCORK with a (2017) Sauvignon Blanc by Bosman (13% ABV). Our ice-breaker questions take multiple turns. Enjoy the ride. WINE DOWN with some hot topics like: a potential Verzuz battle that the crew doesn't agree with, Oprah purchasing billboards in KY for #BreonnaTaylor, Black Is King, children and colorism, and much more. How are you dating during COVID? Are you tapping into your creative juices? FINAL SIPn with challenges, purging, and manifestation. Quote of the Week: "I was complaining that I had no shoes til I met a man who had no feet" -Confucius Guests: Lex (@locs.of.lexx), Whitney (@lola0nthe3eat), Samia (@glowsoldseperately) and Chels (@noIGchels). Live Audience: Tasha & T

Ep. 52 - You Belong Here LETS UNCORK with a black-owned wine 'Amour Genève' (11.5% ABV) This is the first naturally blue wine, and its a Spain wine! Let's see if you can guess the 'Who Am I?' segment - she definitely deserves her flowers. WINE DOWN with some hot topics like: Ye dropping out of the 2020 presidential race, people charged with felonies in Louisville, death of Naya Rivera and Nicole Thea, and more. We also discuss "Imposter Syndrome" and what that looks like, as well as how to combat it. FINAL SIPn with "Green Flags" instead of the typical "Red Flags" we always talk about. Business of the Week: Happy Cork Brooklyn (@happycorkbrooklyn and www.happycork.com, Owner, Sunshine Foss Quote of the Week: "Be grateful for what you already have while you pursue your goals. If you aren't grateful for what you already have, what makes you think you would be happy with more." -Roy T. Bennett

Ep. 51 - Pull Up Or Shut Up LETS UNCORK with Vinter's Reserve, Samuel Robert Winery 'Pinot Noir Rosé', 2019 (13%ABV) - with hints of strawberry, citrus, medium-bodied, and the #1 pick of the summer from Total Wine. WINE DOWN with some of the issues that's being discussed in the world today - you know what's going on - no need to elaborate here. Business of the Week: The Style of Scents (@thestyleofscents) on IG Quote of the Week: "Attach yourself to what you feel to be true"

Ep. 50 - A milestone hit today! LETS UNCORK with a 'Basic Reisling' 2017 (10% ABV). Still quarantined, and trying to stay sane. Jazzie mentions rewatching 'Insecure' over again from start to finish - recognizing some things that were missed over the years in Molly & Issa's friendship. #Verzuz battle, RHOA reunion and Mattie James on a twitter drag. WINE DOWN with this weeks topic: mentorship. What are the benefits? Types of mentorship, 4 stages of mentor/mentee relationships, effective behaviors and things to avoid. FINAL SIPn with whether to release or mend a friendship - a follow up from episode 49. Business of the Week: @happycorkbrookyln a Black owned wine & spirit shop in BK. Quote of the Week: "I'm for truth, no matter who tells it. I'm for justice, no matter who its for or against" - Malcolm X

Ep. 49 - feat. Kia Lets UNCORK with a Chateau Morrisette 'Sweet Mountain Laurel' (10.5% ABV) - this is a local Virginia wine and more information about their wine can be found on www.ourdogs.com. I had to bring out the sweet wine for my guest host, she wouldn't have it any other way. We discuss Quarantinin', being a stay-at-home mom, diving into outr "would you rather ice-breaker" and our worst eyebrow experience (oh emm geee). WINE DOWN with Insecure Season 4 - whew chile, need I say more? It is a perfect segway to our main reason for recording this episode - FRIENDSHIP. The meaning of it, how people may view you as a friend, nurturing friendships, grieving friendships, and much more. FINAL SIPn with a clip and quote from Steve Harvey, Kia shares a bible verse as it relates to our discussion, and sending Happy Mother's Day wishes to all my MUVAS. Business of the Week: The Book'd Planner @thebookdstore Quote of the Week: "You can live in this world without your mother, without your father, but you cannot live in this world without a friend. You have to have a friend" - Steve Harvey Guest Handle: Kia @nakia__t

Ep. 48 - Black Women Are Superheroes Recognizing Black Maternal Health Week, April 11th - 17th, annually. LETS UNCORK with Cupcake 'Sauvignon Blanc', 2018 (12.5 Abv.) I po; up while emphasizing on the 'Melanin Uncorked Book Club' - currently reading "The Water Dancer" by Ta-Nehisi Coates. WINE DOWN - Bernie Sanders has resigned from racing in the 2020 election. Christian Keyes claps back at a "fan". The Boris Lawrence Henson foundation offers free COVID 19 Telehealth, registration starts April 15, 2020. We unpack some stats and facts on maternal health. FINAL SIP'n on staying safe during COVID-19, but also not feeling pressured to "do stuff", to "learn a skill". Business of the Week - NATAL Stories @natalstories on IG and their new Podcast that launches on April 15, 2020. Quote of the Week - "Life is short and the older you get, the more you feel it. Indeed, the shorter it is. People lose their capacity to walk, run, travel, think and experience life. I realize how important it is to use the time I have" - Viggo Mortensen

Ep. 47 - feat. Chelsea LeMore-Monroe from 'Single in the City Podcast' Lets UNCORK with a La Vostra 'Prosecco' (11% ABV). Chelsea gives the Influential Black folk facts and we talk about her married life. WINE DOWN with some hot topics that's been buzzin' in these social media streets. We talk cultural appropriation, washing your hands, and Da Baby ass needing therapy. Then we get into some questionsss. Quote of the Week: "Let wack people be wack" Guest Handles: @starring_chelsea and @singleinthecitypodcast

Ep. 46 Joined by Jasmine McLaughlin, LCSW and Director of Empowered to Thrive Counseling and Wellness, LLC. Let’s UNCORK with a Phebus ‘Torrontés’ from Argentina (13.5% ABV) as we talk about Black History Month and introducing “one gotta go” game as an ice breaker. WINE DOWN with us as we talk about taking a leap, vulnerability, therapist needing therapy and understanding that you don’t have to do it all - reinforcing the superwoman syndrome. Quote of the Week: “Do the right thing, and at the end of the day if people still like you, that’s extra” Guest Handle: Jasmine McLaughlin, LCSW @empoweredtothriverva www.empoweredtothriverva.com

Ep. 45 - Dedicated to Curtis Bunn Jr. - A #VSU Legend and a Friend to so many! Lets UNCORK with a 'Pinot Noir' - Con-Scious (2018) 13.5%ABV. A Oregon wine, that I am SIPn. I talk about V-Day, and Nike releasing a #BlackHistoryMonth collection titled "Watch Us Rise". Lets WINE DOWN with navigating new relationships that are not ideal - to me. I get more personal than I'd like to, and some would probably say bitter, but ah well. Communication with co-parenting being the key and the child being the biggest priority. Business of the Week: "One Gotta Go" game - follow them on IG @onegottago and shop online at www.onegottago.com Quote of the Week: "The minute you settle for less than you deserve, you get even less than you settled for" - Maureen Wood

Ep. 44 - Joined by Two Virginia State University students, JazminThePoet and Purity Lets UNCORK with Magic Box 'Red Blend' (2018) 14% - on dry side but 2 out of 3 would sip again. We dive into the loss of Kobe Bryant, how social media can be a gift and a curse when it comes to news, and loving on the people who love you. WINE DOWN with some self-love. JazminThePoet dives into why she started writing poetry, how loss can be of help, and what self-love looks like to us. FINAL SIPn with a song by Sincere Love titled 'Confidence' (a VSU student so go support), give yourself affirmations & staying true to yourself. Guest Handles: @JazminThePoet @PureDances Business of the Week: Raina Washington of The Sweet Shop RVA Quote of the Week: "Everything you want is on the other side of sacrifice" - Tamara Renaye

Ep. 43 LETS UNCORK with a now fave bottle of Californian "Petite Petit" by Michael David Winery (2016) 16%Alc. It is very good, and this is my 2nd go-round with this wine. WINE DOWN with finding your 'why', your purpose, your mission before you figure out what you want to do and how you want to do it. I reference Simon Sinek's Ted Talk titled "Start with Your Why". FINAL SIP with being OBJECTIVE, in life, with what you do, with what you say - especially when delivering information. Oh, and if you decide to take off, or if you are off on MLK Day - do some damn Community Service! Business of the Week: ThaTeam Podcast - hosting a Trap-N-Vision Party January 18th in New Haven, CT - tickets found in their bio @_thateam Quote of the Week: "Life is more meaningful when our goal is fulfillment rather than gratification" - Unknown

Ep. 42 - Transformational Season Happy New Year! This mini episode is to introduce the new recording days #WineDownWednesday for you #LunchHour; every other Wednesday for 2020. We 'UNCORK' with an Italian wine, 'Donnachiara', 2018 (13%Alc.). We 'CHEERS' to the New Year, and speaking things into existence for 2020. You all are my accountability partners, I speak it, you hold me accountable when I'm f*cking up! Quote of the Week: "You've got to get up every morning with determination if you're going to go to bed with satisfaction" - George Lorimer

Ep. 41 - Last episode of 2019 & this one is met with friends of the pod Lexx (@locs.of.lexx) and Samia (@glowsoldseparately). We unpack our 2019, memories of this decade and what we are manifesting for 2020. Grab your wine, and tune in! Wine of the Week: Cavaliere d'Oro 'Chianti" 2018 (12.5% Alc.) Quote of the Week: "We must accept finite disappointment. But never lose infinite hope". - Martin Luther King Jr.

Ep. 40 – Its HOMECOMING Season!! Hey Corkies! (thanks Chels) We have the host and resident bartender of Single in the City Podcast in the building. This wine yawllll, please get this and add this to your everyday collection. I’m trying to help ya. Tune into us as we sip, discuss homecoming, and somehow (don’t ask how) we got on sharting. It seems we can’t be in our home without being MURDERED. Rest easy Atatiana Jefferson, 28, and yet another Dallas shooting by a white cop. Shout out to Avail Counseling and EAC for curating “Girl, Take Off Your Cape”. Wine of the Week: Bougrier ‘Vouvray’ (12.5%) Quote of the Week: “Stop praying for things you don’t have the discipline to work for” – Unknown Guest Handles: Chelsea (@starring_chelsea and @singleinthecitypodcast) Samia (@samiaminnicksphotography and @glowsoldseparately) Follow @melaninuncorked on IG & Twitter www.melaninuncorked.com

Ep. 39 - Everything is figureoutable! LETS UNCORK (00:06:26) A local, black wine is featured this episode. Shoe Crazy Wine 'Sweet Bella' (7% Alc.) We dive into what's been going on this week for us. WINE DOWN (00:15:40) Power intro is BACK! 50 knew what he was doing - troll! Skylar Richardson and her burying her newborn in the backyard - guilty or not guilty? Malik Yoba and his interview on the Breakfast Club, thoughts? We shed light on our Ancestry DNA journeys. FINAL SIP'N (00:49:06) Being a new mom, time management, work-life balance, breastfeeding, maintaining healthy relationships with spouse and friends, date nights and postpartum depression. Quote of the Week: "No one deserves loving kindness today more than you do" - Unknown Guest Handles: Shema M. @smartbrowngirl on IG and Twitter Social Media Handles: www.melaninuncorked.com @melaninuncorked on IG & Twitter Wine Down with Melanin Uncorked on FB

Ep. 38 - It’s your favorite podcast host birthday!!!!! Show love, send a card, shout a sista out! LET’S UNCORK with how great this weekend in New York was, with some of my faves. There’s a wine fact in here, so listen up! And I’m uncorking with my last bottle of my Angel’s Wine package (I didnt think it would even last this long). WINE DOWN with this chicken sandwich social media debacle (hilarious), Nicki Minaj, Jay Z and Eric Garner’s killer. FINAL SIP’n on #Dirty30 and the manifestation of what these next years would look like. Do you plan ahead of time? Are you speaking life into existence? Tune in and see what’s discussed. Wine of the Week: Matt Parish ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’, 2017 (14.5% Alc.) Quote of the Week: “Stop breaking your own heart by exaggerating your place in other people’s lives”. - Unknown Social Media Handles: www.melaninuncorked.com @melaninuncorked on IG & Twitter Wine Down with Melanin Uncorked on FB

Ep. 37 - It feels so good to be back. This week Jazzie B doesn’t have a special guest on the show. LETS UNCORK with some Chardonnay, give you a few wine facts and I still have the influential black folk. I hope y’all guess who it is! Donations needed for the School Supply Drive WINE DOWN with some hot topics; mass shootings, Galveston TX police officers walking a black man on a leash, insecures table reading, Brazil gang leader that went viral trying to escape, and LHHH (blah). FINAL SIP’n with the reason for my hiatus, self-doubt tryna tackle your girl and have her out here looking crazy crazy, and honoring a legend. Wine of the Week: Clois du Bois, Chardonnay, 2017 (13.5% Alc) Quote of the Week: “You wanna fly, you got to give up the shit that weighs you down” - Toni Morrison Follow all social media handles: www.melaninuncorked.com @MelaninUncorked on IG & Twitter Join the closed FB group: Wine Down with Melanin Uncorked Host handles: @__jazziebee

Ep. 36 - We have Britt Brat as the special guest, and after this episode, there will be a mini break until August. So tell a friend to tell a friend, and catch up on the latest episodes. Lets Uncork (00:06:07) Uncorking with a Angels Reserve 'Shiraz', 2018 (14% Alc.) Some things to remember: please don't go to an event empty handed, and don't buy a dog just to bring it back. The Wine Down (00:26:30) Shedding light on #MinorityMentalHealthAwarenenessMonth, we dive into several topics, to include: misdiagnosis', cultural misunderstandings, taboo conversations in the black community, serious mental illnesses, distrust, finding the right providers, questions to ask when interviewing a therapist, and much more. Final Sip (01:44:52) Britt tells y'all fools to stop licking the damn ice cream, and Jazzie focuses on why a break is needed. Quote of the Week: "Imagine how many unspoken concepts or experiences we share without knowing because we never talk about it. We're missing out on some collective connections because we're not talking about the shit we think about - the shit we ALL think about" - Unknown Guest Handles: Britt Bratt (@BeeQueened - IG & @Britt__Brat - Twitter)

Ep. 35 - It's a CT Connection with Chelsea!! Let's Uncork (00:06:20) We sip on some 'Available' Red Blend while paying homage to Arthur Ashe & VA finally giving credit, Tierra Marie getting arrested (again), and Chelsea answers a couple ice-breaker questions. The Wine Down (00:34:45) Going off the insecurity ice-breaker, we continue this convo, checking people and being comfortable with yourself to do so, being honest with being at rock bottom, mending relationships and understanding the meaning of self-happiness. Final Sip (01:33:00) Mental health matters, black people go to therapy too, boo. Wine of the Week: 'Available' Red Blend (2015) 13% Alc/Vol Quote of the Week: "Its harder to heal from the things you don't discuss, not impossible, but harder. Don't be scared to talk to someone" Guest Handles: Chelsea M. (No Social Media) Influential Millennial: Philadelphia Print Workshop (@philaprint)

Ep. 34 - We SIP'n with Black, Co-Host of Talk Up Podcast, and Josh. I needed another woman to hold it down with me this episode. Lets Uncork (00:05:00) "types of beverage" for the vibe, hidden talents, what you can order on the first date, going through a "background check" while dating, and plenty more. The Wine Down (00:42:14) SPOILER ALERT! "When They See Us", the story of the Central Park Five, directed by Ava DuVernay. Quote of the Week: "I don't have to be what nobody else wants me to be and I am not afraid to be what I want to be" -Muhammad Ali Guest Handles: Black (follow "Talk Up" on Facebook and @talk_up757) and Josh (@va_filmbuff757)

Ep. 33 - No wine to introduce this episode, how weird huh? This was recorded in ATL and the wine didn't make it. This episode features Inca Bey. Lets Uncork (00:04:02) What would you enlarge or shrink on your body? Craziest thing someone did to you during sex? If you spent a lot of money on a woman (or man), does she/he owe you anything? The Wine Down (00:09:00) Inca Bey talk about being a holistic sex therapist, fitness, polygamy, and becoming one with yourself. Final Sip (00:40:02) taking on issues that has zip, zero, nada, nothing to do with you. Being your own person. Your #1 priority should be finding your happiness. Quote of the Week: "You don't always need a plan. Sometimes you have to just breathe, trust, let go and see what happens." - Mandy Hale Guest Handles: Inca Bey (@immortal_physiques), Holistic Sex Therapist and Fitness Instructor (www.immortalphysiques.com)

Ep. 32 - with Monica, Owner of Conscious Kingdom Guest Handles: Monica Makeda (@consciouskingdom)

Ep. 31 - Shoutout to Eraina for coming through from MD on a weekday! Let's Uncork (14:14) Gary gifted Jazzie B with a 'Sweet Bitch' Cabernet Sauvignon this episode. As we sip, we talk drawer snooping, birthday wishes and some embarrassing stories that we 'Confess'. Wine Down (40:00) Relationships with friends and how dating/having children play a part. We tried an additional wine that Eraina gifted; Pacific Fruit Vineyards 'Sweet Apple' (9% Alc/Vol) Final Sip (1:07:43) Russell Wilson gifting Amazon stocks to teammates, understanding what people are going through, and how people shouldn't put on a uniform to mask their racism. Wine of the Week: Sweet Bitch 'Cabernet Sauvignon' and Pacific Wine Vineyards 'Sweet Apple' Quote of the Week: "Remember that life's greatest lessons are usually learned from the worst time and the worst mistakes" - Unknown Guest Handles: @rainyraina (Thanks again girl!)

Ep. 30 - Dirty 30 Episode with Mr. #DiscoveringRVA. Lets Uncork (12:15) Rodock came through with the wine, and its definitely a 'Sip"! We give a couple #WineFacts, you take pictures or pictures pictures? Favorite games as a kid, first jobs and more. Wine Down (50:45) Building rapport in the workplace, and the heat that comes along with that, mentorship, being a black man in the workplace and the art of being "politically correct". Final Sip (1:21:30) How #DiscoveringRVA started, and the where it has taken Rodock thus far. Wine of the Week: Gentleman's Collection - 'Red Blend' (2015) 13.9% Alc/Vol. Quote of the Week: "You should never regret anything in life. If it's good, it's wonderful. If it's bad, it is experience" - Unknown Guest Handle: @discoveringrva @rodockw Influential Millennial: @brandessence2019_

Ep. 29 - Shout out to cotton panties! Okay y'all, it is time to wine down with Jazzie B, and our wonderful guest, Lexx (she's not a newbie to the show). Lets Uncork (8:35) Sippin' on 'Marvelous' wine. Make sure you don't get horrible chinese food chicken while doing it. Lexx shares her passion projects. Millennials taking off time at work & hear our accident stories - we saved a life! The Wine Down (42:18) Y'all be post-poning outfits? Bringing your whole crew around before you commit to one. You ever been the ugly friend in your crew? Whats the wildest thing you've done when you lost control? Rejection & more. Final Sip (1:14:26) Enjoy your life! Jazzie B reviews C. Goss latest project, Fake Famous II. Wine of the Week: 'Marval - White' (2017) 11.5% Alc. Quote of the Week: "Try a thing you haven't done three times. Once, to get over the fear of doing it. Twice, to learn how to do it. And a third time to figure out whether you like it or not" - Virgil Thomson Guest Handle: Lexx (@locs.of.lexx) Influential Millennial: @thedropoffchef

Ep. 28 - Its a SMOOCH episode, shout out to #VSU Wine of the Week: 'Novinophobia' Red Blend (2016) - 13.5% ABV 'Novinophobia' is the fear of having anymore wine. Quote of the Week: "We are still masters of our fate. We are still captains of our soul." - Winston Churchill Guest Handles: Tiffany @omgahh_tg and Sharise @_localsavage Influential Millennial: Max, Owner of Mixxy Meals @mixxymeals

Ep. 27 - #PodernFamily episodes are alwayssssss lit! Episode 27 is joined by James (Nug) and Ra’Meer (Jerz), hosts of “In the Chat Podcast”. Relocating and how that played a part in the way we operate (9:15). The wine choice this episode was amazingggg (19:55). The men spill how they feel about giving their wives a free pass. Their answers are so typical for men lol (31:30). The things that makes our jobs tolerable and/or intolerable (33:36). The married man perspective as millennials (45:20). The world went crazy when Instagram went down (1:00:50). Six Brown Chicks article: Men Reveal: 6 Signs He’s Too Broke to Date You (1:15:05) and much more. Wine of the Week: 19 Crimes ‘Hard Chard’ (2017) 16% (Recommended by James) Quote of the Week: “Take care of your body, it’s the only place you have to live” – Jim Rohn Guests Handles: Hosts of In the Chat Podcast, (@inthechat_podcast) listen on all Podcast platforms James @jimmy_bones90 Ra’Meer @lyricalambiance

Ep. 26 - #VSU is in the buildingggg! Jazzie B sits down with a long-time friend, DJ Best. We discuss a first date scenario, from one of our listeners (11:30). Should we get rid of dating traditions? (23:52) We Uncork with 'Merlot' (32:00). The state of New Jersey passed a law where they would introduce LGBT History in the schools (39:37). We dive into financial literacy, what that looks like, credit, insurance, and so much more (45:43). Wine of the Week: Yellow Tail 'Merlot', 2018 Quote of the Week (Jazzie B) "We'd achieve more if we chase our dreams instead of our competition" - Simon Sinek (DJ Best) "Never think of the consequences of failing, you will always think of a negative result. Think only positive thoughts, and your brain will gravitate towards those thoughts" - Michael Jordan Guest Handles: DJ Best, Self-Employed, @d_d1ddybest (Contact Info: 757-434-2457 or dj@robersonfinancial.com)

Ep. 25 - Kicking off Black History Month with a special guest, Jacque Vaughan, Real Estate Agent in Virginia. We get into the ice-breaker questions (12:58) and talk about some things that bother us in bars/clubs, cooking as first dates, and more. Governor Northam (26:20) and a 1984 picture resurfacing with a "black face", and the people wanting him to resign. Federal Detention Center in Brooklyn is without power (34:57) and how inhumane this is. Jacque's transition from Connecticut to Virginia and how many questions she used to get about her natural hair in 07' (38:38). Jacque discusses her the values her mother instilled, buying her first investment property in her 20's, building wealth, real estate, do's and don'ts on purchasing a home, and some pointers to first time home buyers. Wine of the Week: Bartenura 'Moscato' - 2016 Quote of the Week: "Refuse to be defined by someone else's vision of what's possible". - Unknown Influential Millennial: (Not mentioned, but we want to shout her out) @sassyjonesboutique Guest Handles: Jacque Vaughan, Real Estate Agent @jacquevaughan jacque@jacquevaughan.com , www.jacquevaughan.com/

Ep. 24 - Jazzie B is back with a special guest, Kemi Omisore, Founder of AfroBeat Fit. We are recording in a dance studio, so excuse the slight echo. Jazzie B is excited to try wine for the first (kind of) time in 21 days. Kemi discusses the birth of AfroBeat Fit , Cliff diving, and the journey that comes along with sacrifices (22:30)Taking a leap of faith (30:15)the culture embracing Afro beats like they did reggae and dancehall (36:13)R. Kelly and the 7 part docu-series (43:25)The Game and his violation on this snippet that surfaced (53:55)Government shutdown partially suspended (1:00:00). Wine of the Week: Relax 'Riesling' - A German Wine Quote of the Week: "Disciple is doing what needs to be done, even if you don't want to". - Unknown Guest: Kemi Omisore, Founder of AfroBeat Fit, Sweat Coach and Choreographer @idreamanyway @afrobeatfit and www.afrobeatfit.com Influential Millennials: Kemi Omisore (Founder, Sweat Coach and Choreographer) and Carven (Sweat Coach and Choreographer)@dancemasterslim

Ep. 23 - Taqi's Take is in the building. Tune in as she gets the #InfluentialBlackFolk correct, and why he was chosen. We talk a lot of music this episode, more Taqi than Jazzie B, since she is the expert. What are your top 5 albums of 2018? You will find out all about Taqi's Take and how it came about, her inspiration for it, and what keeps her going.There's enough space for everybody, and we discuss that as we share our one year journeys with our platform. 2019 goals, write them down and revisit! Wine (Beer) of the Week: Abita Brewing 'Hop On' from New Orleans Quote of the Week: "Sometimes you gotta go in on yourself, reassess the way you've been moving, and make the changes no one else know you're in need of". - Unknown Influential Millennial: @3manweave_ Podcast Guest Handles: @Taqi_ Founder of TaqisTake.com

Ep. 22 - We got the Single in the City Podcast crew, Chelsea Lemore and Samia the Resident Bartender, for this Christmas Episode. Y'all ready for the #MillenniumTour or nah? Tune into Samia's story about how heartbroken she was when B2K broke up. Sit back and relax as we talk about fights as kids, bullying, listening to other podcasts outside of your own, and a host of other things. Wine of the Week: a concoction made by Samia Quote of the Week: "Nothing is more dangerous than a friend without discretion; even a prudent enemy is preferable" - Jean de la Fontaine Influential Millennial: @BerkeleyDetailing Guest Handles: @singleinthecitypodcast @samiaminnicksphotography

Ep. 21 - What's life like for an artist? Nai, the Artist, explains her journey in artistry. From VSU to drawing as a child, black and white charcoal, graphic designs, graffiti. and 90's inspired paintings. Life experiences shifted her life, and she puts that in her art. We discuss social media as a tool, PTSD, losing a friend, and therapy. Get your favorite bottle of wine, it's time for #LunchHour. Wine of the Week: Robert Mondavi 'Pinot Noir' 13.5%, 2016 Quote of the Week: "Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible into the visible" - Tony Robbins Guest Handles: Sideline Images Art @sidelineimages www.sidelineimagesart.com/

Ep. 20 - #CT is in the building! Bek Easy and Trelle from #ThaTeam Podcast joins us on this episode. Tune in as we talk immediate turn-offs, ruining a date in 4 words, rejection, and a host of other things. This could've went on for FOREVER. Wine of the Week: Oracle 'Chardonnay' Quote of the Week: "When you have a million dollar vision, don't surround yourself with 1 cent minds" -Unknown Guest Handles: @ibrownsugar_ and @bekeasy from @_thateam Podcast

Ep. 19 - We have a special guest in the building! Author, Sade Norwood of her first book "Love & Other Miseries" available on Amazon. We start off with icebreaker questions from the game #LetsCuff. Girl talk went from parenting, break-ups, first time meeting at #VSU, her book and experiencing the lost of a sibling and the feeling after the sentencing. All this while hotel pimpin' over a slight hangover, after celebrating a decade of friendship with the squad. No wine this week, just Jack Honey. Quote of the Week: "We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty" -Maya Angelou Guest: Sade Norwood, Author (@shaydii)

Ep. 18 - Jazzie B is holding down the fort solo dolo, but I am not keeping you long. Giving thanks to all of those who have supported #MellyUncorked thus far! We talk tithing, Jilly from Philly, Kim Porter and the #BlackAssFieldTrip to Montgomery, AL. Special shoutout to all the curators of this event. Wine of the Week: Chanti Riserva 'Red Wine' 12.5% Quote of the Week: "An unhealed person can find offense in pretty much anything someone does. A healed person understands that the actions of others has absolutely nothing to do with them. Each day you get to decide which one you will be" -Unknown

Ep. 17 - Bonus Episode: Jazzie B, Nise and Lex comes throughhhh with some interesting discussions while playing the game "Ladies Night". Men and Women, tune in!

Ep. 16 - Jazzie B chats with the Lead Counselor, Jeff C. from Mpact Counseling, LLC. We hit Jeff with the Ice-Breakers about receiving gifts and dating advice (5:30), he drops some gems. 50 Cent is next level #Petty(18:00). The horrible tragedy in Pittsburgh (23:51). This leads us to have a in depth conversation about Mental Health, Jeff's passion for starting 'Mpact Counseling' (30:20), low points, depression, anxiety, divorce, fatih and vulnerability. Co-Parenting from the males perspective (52:08). Wine of the Week: Winking Owl 'Moscato', 8% (for all ya'll budgeting wine folk, this wine is at Aldi for $2.59!) Quote of the Week: "Fear is a reaction, courage is a decision" Guest: Jeff Cuthbertson, Lead Counselor for Mpact Counseling, LLC. @mpactcounseling @iamjeffcuthbertson

Ep. 15 - Ayeee, we have C. Goss and Teka on the Wine Down. Tune in to see what they think about THUGLIFE, the movie 'The Hate You Give', Human Trafficking in VA, Quintez Cephus, and of course Kanye. We wine down with Mental Health in the Black Community, and answer some questions from our #mellyuncorked listeners. Wine of the Week: A3 'Cabernet Sauvignon' 13.5% Quote of the Week: "If you are passionate about it, and you're consistent, good things will manifest for you." - Shanina Dionna Guests: Teka Johnson, LCSW Corey Goss, Gospel Rapper, Youth Pastor, and co-host of The Cook Kids Podcast

Ep. 14 - Ladies, we have men on this episode! Tune in to find out if they're talking trash, or something of substance. Marquis from New Haven, CT and Brandon from Brooklyn, NY comes through the trap to chop it up about why Vivica Fox so messy, Crazy DC experiences, NY & VA requiring Mental Health Education in schools, and the "ask men" questions from our followers. Wine of the Week: New Age 'Dulce Natural' - Naturally Sweet Quote of the Week: "Crooked Vision Breeds Crooked Decisions" - Unknown Guests Handles: Brooklyn @cr3uk3l3n Marquis @NoSocialMediaQuis

Ep. 13 - Guess whose bizzackk with Episode 13?! Afty was sick this week, so it's an up north take over! Jazzie B, Nise, and Bianca are jumping right in and wasting no time uncorking! The girls chat about losing yourself in a relationship, and friends losing themselves in relationships. If your significant other asks you to move in, should the bills be split or should they foot the bill? Big D*ck Energy...is this really a thing? If so, can you detect it? The ladies share their craziest date experiences, how to flirt, and a review of Insecure Season 3 thus far. Influential Millennial: Sade Norwood @__snorwood (Author of Love & Other Miseries) Pre-Order her book on Amazon Wine of the Week: Cupcake 'Rose' 13.5% Quote of the Week: "There is no magic to achievement. It's really about hard work, choices and persistence." - Michelle Obama

Ep. 12 - We are all gathered here today (pastor’s voice) to celebrate Jazzie Bee’s Birthday #ShineIn29. We recap what’s been going on in our world. We talk validation during college, sex topics, and our drunkest moments. What are people really doing for self-care? Robyn gives us the scoop on why scrolling and watching tv for a long period of time is helpful. Influential Millennial: Robyn (Author, LCSW-C) follow her @_iameverything and @msrobyndanielle Mini Bar Selection: Jack, Jose Cuervo, Crown Royal, Henny & Brews! (Wine wasn’t fine this week) Quote of the Week: “Be the woman you needed as a girl” -Unknown

Ep. 11 - Take a sip with #mellyuncorked and our guest, Brittany Janay (@brittanyjanay_). We talk dope ass Monday vibes, new jobs, poppin' jobs, and OTR II tour (shoutout to the Dusse and Lemonade mix). As we breakdown these current events, we dive into white drug users vs. black drug users and justice for Nia Wilson. Toxic masculinity; the difference between raising our young sons vs young daughters, being intentional, black women in the workplace, and the Good Vibe trend. Shout out to all those aspiring to be better women! Our challenge for August is #AmonthofHappniess (shout out to @x.nisee.x Influential Millennial: Vince Pierson (@vince_vsp), Director of Diversity & Inclusion for Minor League Baseball Wine of the Week: Sweet Walter 'Red', 11% Quote of the Week: "Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world" - Harriet Tubman

Ep. 10 - #MellyUncorked hosts our first "official guest" in episode 10! Antonio Knoxx and Britt Brat join the squad as we unwind with wine, duh! We talk about Entrepreneurship: Knoxx explains taking a step out on Faith. Arizona Laws: how personal and religious beliefs are able to spill over into your job. Fathers threatening daughters; someone get Boosie! Dating in 2018.. work on YOURSELF! Barriers in Communication: Where do you lack? Our Challenge: MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS! Wine Pick: Simply Naked Chardonnay Unoaked Guest Social Media Handles: @antonioknoxx @beequeened Influential Millennial: @ajmcqueen @wearewritersblock Quote: "Doing something later is not automatically the same as doing something better". - Meg Jay

Ep. 9 - We are at it again with Episode 9! Afty celebrates recent accomplishments (pregnant or nah?) Parents getting crazy because transgendered athletes are smoking their kids on the track. Are they wrong? Celebrating #BlackGirlMagic! We heard we play it too safe, so Afty and Jazzie B detail dating multiple people & their worst dates ever. Sex toys, only for single women? Or should everyone be allowed to play? Teyana Taylor has us all talking about her and Iman bussin' down females together, we discuss whether we would indulge or not being mentally stable enough to participate. Jazzie B gives us a therapy update, MSM (Mentally Stimulate Me) playing cards, Happy Planner update, and #theshiggychallenge. Influential Millennial: Drew of @brandwithdrew and @byobsociety Wine of the Week: Luna di Luna 2016 ‘Merlot Carbernet’ Quote of the Week: “Our Expectations Determine How We Respond. Be Careful What You Expect.” -Dan Miller

Ep. 8 - When the inebriation kicks in with Afty..wtf is a HBUC? Speaking of, #DearSummerBBQ in Brooklyn, NY was a reunion. Your pregnant or nah? Why are Supervisors trippin'? Humanity or Strictly Business?Social media is the judge and the jury. Should celebrities have thick skin? Or should fans pipe down? Tamar vs. Queen Tank. Millennials and love, everything is #goals. Influential Millennial: Zy'Ale Clark @blaqueheir www.blaqueheirpub.com Wine of the Week: Alazani Valley 2015 'White Semi-Sweet' (12%) Quote of the Week: "You do not have to be great at something to start, but you do have to start to be great" - Zig Zigglar

Ep. 7 - What is too much to spend on a kid's birthday party? 'Triple B: Petty Permit Patty' out here calling the cops on an 8 year old girl trying to secure the bag with mom dukes. #JusticeforJunior; seriously, what is the world coming to? 45 and his seperation of immigrant families, are we really shocked anymore? Melenia doesn't care, do you? . Multi-Generations in the workplace...how do we hold each other down without bumping' heads? Afty gives her thoughts on Luke Cage and his preference in women. We are joined at the end by our very first guest, Jazzie B's sister, Brandie and she gives us her take on Afty and her potty mouth. Influential Millennial: Mahalia @cest.belle.events cestbelleevents.com/ Wine of the Week: San Antonio 'Imperial Red' Semi-Sweet Quote of the Week: "Some days she has no idea how she'll do it, but every single day, it still gets done" -Author Unknown

Ep. 6 - Bonus week episode. We recap the Flower Power event and being in the presence of creatives at Wicked Bloom DC. Tori Brixx and Rich the Kid’s home invasion; y’all know them? Are we so desensitized that we no longer feel for people? “Everybody want to be us, until it’s time to be us”! Who cares if you have a “black friend”. Hey bae, who’s texting US? Are you secure or a nut job? It’s okay if you’re a lil cray cray. When is it too early to talk self-pleasure? Challenge: Protecting your space and energy at all costs. Happy Father’s Day to all the pappy’s out there! Influential Millennial: Shari Renee @inspirethetribe/@shari_renee WetheTRIBE.bigcartel.com Wine of the Week: Foodies 2014 ‘Merlot’ Quote of the Week: “Accept what is. Let go of what was. Have faith in what will be”. -Author Unknown

Ep. 5 - We love our FLOTUS, and no, not the current. We continue to promote self care with our challenge for the week. What is to be expected if you flying a joint out? Or waiting until they arrive, as Future likes to tell em’. We speak about suicide, and acknowledging Kate Spade and Chef Anthony Bourdain. We dive into strained relationships between mothers and their daughters (and sons). #BYOB Retreat in D.C., and the grocery eating epidemic. Pop your cork with us, this gets real. Influential Millennial: Mary Martin @lovengoodlips Wine of the Week: OGIO 2016 ‘Pinot Grigio’ Quote of the Week: “If you don’t like what you’ve been reaping, change what you’ve been sowing” - Author Unknown