Monuments to Me

In the final episode of the season, join our hosts on a heartfelt and reflective journey as they explore the changing seasons in their lives. With a touch of nostalgia, they take a moment to reminisce about the most popular episodes of the season, sharing behind-the-scenes stories and their personal reflections on the impact those episodes had on them and their listeners. It's a candid and introspective conversation that celebrates the growth, challenges, and triumphs experienced throughout the season. To learn more about our hosts, check out their Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter pages. • Akilah- @akilahffriend Website: https://akilahffriend.com/  • Dawn- @_dawnmontgomery YouTube: @BreakofDM and Twitter: @_dawnmontgomer • Monuments To Me Show: @monumentstome Show Production: Adode Media www.adodemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Monuments to Me, Chef Carla Hall discusses her journey of reclaiming the kitchen and creating community in the process.  As a Black southern woman, Carla Hall embraces the culture of soul food - and spreads the good word about cooking with love. She shares her unique insights about divine timing, aging with grace, and pivoting in your career.  Carla didn't always cook, but she always loved to eat. She went to culinary school at 33 and competed on Top Chef at 44. Proving that it is never too late to chase your passions, Carla emphasizes that everything happens for a reason. What dreams or ideas do you have, sitting on the shelf? This episode will make you want to pull them down, dust them off and run with them at full speed.  Chef Carla Hall has been featured as a contestant on Top Chef and appeared on Top Chef: All Stars. She is the Author of multiple cookbooks including Soul Food: Everyday and Celebration, which landed on annual “Best Cookbook” lists across the country and received an NAACP Image Awards nomination. She spent 7 years co-hosting ABC's Emmy award winning, popular lifestyle series “The Chew”, and is featured on the Food Network in shows such as “Thanksgiving, Holiday and Halloween Baking Championships” as a Judge. Connect With Carla Website: https://carlahall.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlaphall/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chefcarlahall  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfZYLw8eI690el8dkO54sJg  To learn more about our hosts, check out their Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter pages. Akilah- @akilahffriend Website: https://akilahffriend.com/  Dawn- @_dawnmontgomery YouTube: @BreakofDM and Twitter: @_dawnmontgomer Monuments To Me Show: @monumentstome Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Show Production: Adode Media www.adodemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Theresa tha S.O.N.G.B.I.R.D. is the sound of a new generation. She is a magical, alchemical, viral Poet and Author of the poem “You So Black.” Theresa is a performer of many talents including poetry, empowering children's literature, vocals, and acting. She has been a Keynote Speaker at corporate events and educational institutions, made television and media appearances and performed at festivals and conferences. In a true monument to Black women, Theresa showers us with the power of her words: inspiring us to be intentional with our beauty, allow ourselves to be soft, and trust our intuition. She shares how she worked through imposter syndrome and learned to express herself through making her own clothes, curating her one-of-a-kind public image and extending her self-love to kindness towards others.  If you ask Theresa what makes her so expressive, she will tell you that she inherited her mother's “delusional confidence.” Bask in the magic of Theresa tha S.O.N.G.B.I.R.D. and prepare to be invigorated by your own power. Connect With Theresa Website: https://www.thasongbird.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thasongbird/  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/thassongbird  Twitter: https://twitter.com/theresathabird  Purchase Theresa's book, You So Black: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/you-so-black-theresa-tha-songbird/1141651804  To learn more about our hosts, check out their Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter pages Akilah- @akilahffriend Website: https://akilahffriend.com/  Dawn- @_dawnmontgomery YouTube: @BreakofDM and Twitter: @_dawnmontgomer Monuments To Me Show: @monumentstome Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Show Production: Adode Media www.adodemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Johane Filemon believes that beautiful food is the ultimate vehicle for self-love. As a certified Nutritionist, Johane teaches her clients to live more fully and vibrantly with food. Johane M. Filemon, MS, RDN, CLT, is a Registered Dietitian with 10 years of experience in Nutrition. Johane holds bachelor's degrees in Exercise Science and Dietetics and a master's degree in Food and Nutrition Science. Today on Monuments to Me, Johane shares how she became a devotee of cultivating the life and body you want using nutrition.  Johane was studying Pre-Med when she took a required nutrition class. Suddenly, she realized that nutrition could be her entire career - and she was hooked. While she got some heat from her Haitian parents about her course of study, Johane knew it was the right choice for her. Now, she is inspired by the changes she sees in her clients every day. After running bloodwork and receiving diagnostics, Johane assesses her clients' food intolerances and helps them rebuild the very foundation of their health - their gut harmony! Using a thoughtful and sustainable nutrition plan, she helps them push the reset button on their health and happiness to become their optimal selves. Connect with Johane Filemon Website: https://wonderfullynutritious.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blacknutritionistmama/ Facebook: ​https://www.facebook.com/wonderfullynutritiousbyjohane Podcast - Nutrition Lifestyles with Kim and Johane: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nutrition-lifestyles-with-kim-johane/id1479479889 Receive her *free* Guide to 50 Foods that May Help Your GI Symptoms: https://digestivetherapy.johanefilemon.com/   To learn more about our hosts, check out their Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter pages. Akilah- @akilahffriend Website: https://akilahffriend.com/ Dawn- @_dawnmontgomery YouTube: @BreakofDM and Twitter: @_dawnmontgomer Monuments To Me Show: @monumentstome Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Show Production: Adode Media www.adodemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The latest episode of Monuments to Me features Shayla Cowan, the Chief of Staff at Will Packer Productions. She discusses her journey to her current role in Hollywood, emphasizing the importance of being seen, cultivating relationships, and trusting her instincts. Shayla shares insights on empathy, mentorship, self-care, and being genuine and discerning in relationships. She also discusses the challenges of navigating the industry and the progress being made by black women in leadership positions. The hosts of Monuments to Me praise Cowen's leadership skills and inspiring story of making it to the C-suite in Hollywood. Connect With The Guest Shayla Cowan Website: https://www.willpacker.com/shayla-cowan-bio  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shayla_pc/?hl=en  Forbes Feature - Shayla Cowan is All Business: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jessicapliska/2022/11/09/shayla-cowan-is-all-business/?sh=484750b23375  To learn more about our hosts, check out their Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter pages. Akilah- @akilahffriend Website: https://akilahffriend.com/  Dawn- @_dawnmontgomery YouTube: @BreakofDM and Twitter: @_dawnmontgomer Monuments To Me Show: @monumentstome Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Show Production: Adode Media www.adodemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nsé Ufot has helped register nearly 600,000 Georgia voters. In this episode of Monuments to Me, Nsé shares her passion for impact, politics, and change with listeners - including a compelling case for why Black women should vote.  To Nsé, voting is an act of self-love. Focusing less on the actual vote, she argues that showing up and speaking out is a profound method of mobilizing voters of color toward a better future. Because of Black women, Georgia turned red to blue in the 2020 presidential election - and the effects have been widespread. In 2014 Nsé was introduced to Stacey Abrams, Georgia State Representative and House Majority Leader for the Georgia General Assembly. After showing up to the conversation doubtful of Stacey's vision, Nsé realized that she was looking at the real deal - and that Stacey's strategy would change American politics forever.  For the past seven years, Nsé has served as the Chief Executive Officer of the New Georgia Project (NGP) and the New Georgia Project Action Fund (NGPAF), leading a team of culture creators, organizers, activists, and thinkers to build a movement home for young folks and people of color. Nsé was born in Nigeria and raised in Southwest Atlanta, Georgia. As a proud naturalized citizen, Nse's experience as part of an immigrant family living in the deep south has shaped her commitment to civil and human rights. Throughout her career, Nsé has been dedicated to creating impact and change around issues that center civil, human, and workers' rights.  Connect With The Nsé Ufot Website: https://nseufot.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenseufot/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/nseufot To learn more about our hosts, check out their Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter pages. Akilah- @akilahffriend Website: https://akilahffriend.com/  Dawn- @_dawnmontgomery YouTube: @BreakofDM and Twitter: @_dawnmontgomer Monuments To Me Show: @monumentstome Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Show Production: Adode Media Website: Adode Media Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanita Hubbard wants to flip the script and change the conversation around Black women in hip hop…and society as a whole. Through her exploration of the “ride or die chick,” Shanita invites us to take a deeper look at how we as Black women value our worth, work, date, parent, innovate and make music.  Shanita is an acclaimed Writer, Professor of Journalism at the University of Toronto, Chair of the Freelance Taskforce for the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), Soros Fellow, and Author of the book “RIDE OR DIE: A Feminist Manifesto for the Well-Being of Black Women.” Her work has been featured prominently in The New York Times, The Huffington Post, The Guardian, Pitchfork, Essence, Vox, and beyond. She spends her time advocating for marginalized communities through her work as a Writer, Educator and public speaker.  In this thought-provoking and powerful conversation, Shanita examines what “ride or die” means, especially for communities of color. Is it a compliment, or a tactic of manipulation? Is it a way of valuing someone, or devaluing them? What does it look like to separate our labor from our worth, and what is the role of capitalism in the dissolution process? And most importantly - how do we celebrate Black women more fully?  Connect With The Guests Shanita Hubbard Website: http://shanitahubbard.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/professor_nita/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/msshanitarenee  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShanitaHubbardLLC  Be sure to purchase Shanita's book at your local bookstore or grab it on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Ride-Die-Feminist-Manifesto-Well-Being/dp/0306874679  To learn more about our hosts, check out their Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter pages. Akilah- @akilahffriend Website: https://akilahffriend.com/  Dawn- @_dawnmontgomery YouTube: @BreakofDM and Twitter: @_dawnmontgomer Monuments To Me Show: @monumentstome Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Show Production: Adode Media Studios Website: Adode Media Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we have a very special guest, Cynthia Bailey, an American model, actress, and reality television personality with a history far deeper than The Real Housewives of Atlanta. Cynthia joins us to share her story, offer advice for success, and celebrate the unique value and power of black women. Throughout the episode, Cynthia opens up about her personal journey, from growing up in Alabama to pursuing a successful career in the entertainment industry. She discusses the challenges faced along the way and the lessons she learned about perseverance, resilience, and self-love. Throughout the conversation, Cynthia's warmth, humor, and wisdom shine through, making this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to be inspired, uplifted, and empowered. So tune in to "Monuments To Me" and join us as we celebrate the beauty and brilliance of black women with the ultimate MVP, Cynthia Bailey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode delves deep into the world of activism with Shar Bates and Lerae Funderburg, but not so much from a political standpoint. Akilah navigates the conversation with them from the point of view of how they make space in the world of activism, but also in their everyday lives. Shar aka The Community Healer aka Martin Luther Queen is a Radio and TV host as well as the Founder of Breaking the Chains of Hip Hop Coalition which helps youth heal through creative arts. Lerae is the Founder and Managing Partner of a boutique law firm, Funderburg Law in Atlanta, as well as a Health and Wellness Practitioner. Both women share how they got thrown into activism, their journey to get where they are at with it today, and how they prefer to help the communities as activists in their current roles. In this conversation, they all discuss the different movements of 2020, how activists should enter into communities they want to help, performative activism, and the essential role that health and wellness play in the lives of activists and much more. Tune in to hear how Shar and Lerae are able to continue the work of healing communities by prioritizing themselves to lead from a place within and don't forget to follow them on social media to see how you can help support the work they do. Connect With The Guests Shar Bates Instagram: @iamsharbates @breakingthechainsatl @myvoteishiphop To get involved with saving the youth or programs and jobs for youth, email: btcofhiphop@gmail.com Lerae Funderburg Instagram: @holisticlawyermommy Website: www.elevatelegallly.com  To learn more about our hosts, check out their Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter pages. Instagram: Akilah- @akilahffriend Dawn- @_dawnmontgomery Monuments To Me Show: @monumentstome Dawn - YouTube: @BreakofDM and Twitter: @_dawnmontgomer  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Akilah sits down with BIG Tiny and Ashley Dixon to discuss entrepreneurship as content creators and influencers. Both Atlanta-based, BIG Tiny is a singer, and songwriter and Ashley is a full-time entrepreneur creating content focused on home decor and DIY projects.   Having two very different paths, BIG Tiny and Ashley share their journeys to becoming successful full-time content creators, not shying away from the realities of what it took to get to where they are now - imposter syndrome, zero-income months, preparing to leave secure jobs, and more. They also talk about the evolution of being a creator, what it means to be a Black woman in this space, the ebb and flow of social media, and what's actually important when it comes to working with brands (hint: it's not the number of followers you have).   Listen in to hear valuable tips for newbies or anyone who wants to break into the creator scene and solid advice for monetization, but more importantly, how to stay true to yourself, reclaim your power, and operate in your purpose in the world of content creation and influencing.   To connect with and learn more about content creation, home design, and to support our guests, check out their websites and follow them on social media.   BIG Tiny Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @indeskribeabull Twitter: @indeskribeabul Merch: www.ok2bapparel.com   Ashley Dixon Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @alexanderreneedesign Website and blog: www.alexanderrenee.com   To learn more about our hosts, check out their Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter pages. Instagram: Akilah- @akilahffriend Dawn-  @_dawnmontgomery Monuments To Me Show: @monumentstome Dawn - YouTube:  @BreakofDM and Twitter: @_dawnmontgomery

This episode is focused 100% on Only Fans and it is an amazing one.  Akilah and Dawn have an open and honest conversation on the platform Only Fans and is it good or bad for black women.  Is it a tool for over-sexualization or a tool for growth and change?  Is it setting black women up for their future or is it setting them up for a let down. A lot of perspective is discussed on this episode but we want you to come to your own conclusion. Listen closely and share your thoughts and feelings. To learn more about our hosts, check out their Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter pages. Instagram: Akilah- @akilahffriend Dawn- @_dawnmontgomery Monuments To Me Show: @monumentstome Dawn - YouTube: @BreakofDM and Twitter: @_dawnmontgomer 

We are moving mountains in this week's episode with Kim Carter. She is a Top 10 CNN Hero, Founder and Ambassador for Time for Change Foundation, President & CEO of Center for Housing Advancement and Motivational Projects (CHAMP), author of Waking Up To My Purpose, and a proud Black woman in America. But none of that came easy. Kim shares how she overcame homelessness, incarceration, addiction, and more and found a way to better herself in a system that perpetuates inequality. She opens up about her journey of going through the worst of the worst, to finding her purpose of helping other Black women by creating resources that empower disenfranchised individuals, starting programs to help women like her, and building communities where Black women are centered to help them thrive.  More importantly, through doing, living, existing, and being enough for herself, Kim shows that the rest of us don't have to do anything extra, nor do we have to endure the pain and trauma, to be deserving of love, care, and protection. She challenges us to know that we are enough as we are. If you are looking for motivation to step into your power, advice for facing imposter syndrome, or a sign to know that you, as a Black woman, are enough, tune in to get fired up. To stay in the know with Kim's programs, upcoming projects, pick up a copy of her book, or connect with her personally, visit www.timeforchangefoundation.org and www.kimschamp.com and follow her on Instagram: @kimcarter4408 To learn more about our hosts, check out their Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter pages. Instagram: Akilah- @akilahffriend Dawn-  @_dawnmontgomery Monuments To Me Show: @monumentstome Dawn - YouTube:  @BreakofDM  and Twitter: @_dawnmontgomery

A distressing reality for Black women is that we are three to four times more likely to experience pregnancy-related deaths than white women. That's why it was important for us to bring on Tracie Collins, former Doula and midwife of 17+ years and CEO and Founder of the National Black Doula's Association (NBDA), to discuss the importance of having Black doulas and/or midwives when it comes to birthing. Tracie shares personal experiences as well as expert insight on how the NBDA is a resource for Black birthing people, trends or things that have stayed the same in the industry over the years, and how Black and brown people are reclaiming what was stolen from them and rediscovering our value in the birth space. Dawn also shares her own birth story including how she almost died and what saved her, while Akilah shares her reservations about pregnancy. Whether you are a mother or not yet, you never want to be one or can't, this episode is relatable for all. It stresses the importance of how representation empowers birthing people to invest in actively choosing a birthing team from a doula, midwife, medical team, and anyone else that will create a space for them to feel safe and supported through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Tune in to hear from three different perspectives on Black womens' birth and learn key ways you can advocate for yourself as a birthing person. For all birthwork, doulas in your geographic region, or training as a birth professional, visit the NBDA at www.blackdoulas.org and follow @nationalblackdoulas on Instagram. To connect with and learn more from Tracie, visit www.traciecollinsofficial.com or follow her on social media. Instagram: @traciecollins Facebook: @traciecollinsofficial TikTok: @iamtraciecollins  YouTube: @Tracie_Collins To learn more about our hosts, check out their Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter pages. Instagram: Akilah- @akilahffriend Dawn-  @_dawnmontgomery Monuments To Me Show: @monumentstome Dawn - YouTube:  @BreakofDM  and Twitter: @_dawnmontgomery

Things get spicy this week while we explore the topic of embracing sex and our sexualities with Samia Burton, an Intimacy Coordinator and Sexual Educator. Samia is the CEO and founder of Sexual Essentials, helping people create the sex lives they want through education and events. She is also the Owner and Founder of SE Media Group, just opened up SE Content House, and is the host of Not Just Another Sex Podcast. Nothing is off limits as our conversation touches on everything from foreplay, emotional intimacy, sex toys, orgasms, sexual love languages, and sexual liberation. But we dig deep as Samia confronts a lot of hard truths on how we, as women, act when it comes to these matters. Truths like: how we can be extremely judgmental; how we can become defensive and mean when we get hurt; or how easily we point the finger at men or someone else when there's a problem of dissatisfaction when we don't actually know what we want. Having no shame to ask the real questions, listen in to hear how Samia has achieved a deeper level of sexuality through speaking her own truth, learn how sex goes beyond physical pleasure, and be empowered to acknowledge what you want toexercise your own sexuality. For 50% off any Sexual Essentials masterclass and 15% off thigh high socks, use the code NJASP at thesexualessentials.com. To connect with and learn more from Samia, check out the following Instagram pages. Personal: @miabuggzy Education: @sexualessentials Podcast: @notjustanothersexpod Events: @se.xperience Content House: @secontenthouse To learn more about our hosts, check out their Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter pages. Instagram: Akilah- @akilahffriend Dawn-  @_dawnmontgomery Monuments To Me Show: @monumentstome Dawn - YouTube:  @BreakofDM  and Twitter: @_dawnmontgomery

Mental health, especially as a Black woman, is a difficult thing to talk about, but it's one of the most important topics that we can discuss. Though she is already very vocal and public about it, Dawn opens up about her own journey with mental health through the years while Akilah navigates the conversation as someone who recently started her own mental health journey.  Our discussion explores Dawn's lived experiences that include generational trauma, being diagnosed with bipolar disorder at a young age, what led to her starting therapy at the age of 9 and why she still continues seeing a therapist today, how she became a mental health advocate, and much more.  This solo episode with our co-hosts can get uncomfortable, but it's real and it's raw. Tune in to be inspired by Dawn's story, get a fresh perspective on how and why seeking help for our mental health is not just for when things are bad, and to hear where she's at in her journey today.  To learn more about our hosts, check out their Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter pages.  Instagram:  Akilah- @akilahffriend Dawn-  @_dawnmontgomery Monuments To Me Show: @monumentstome Dawn - YouTube:  @BreakofDM  and Twitter: @_dawnmontgomery

Last season, Monuments to Me, set out to create a safe space for Black women to feel, to create, and to just be. Coming back for season 2 shows that what we tried to do from the beginning was enough - and there's no stopping us as we continue to build a community for Black Women by Black Women to talk about things that are important to them.  This new season begins with returning co-host Akilah Ffriend introducing a former listener turned new co-host, Dawn Montgomery, and a sneak peek into some of the topics they're going to discuss in future episodes. From cheating, to relationship and family dynamics, to activism, and more, there's going to be lots of exciting conversation ahead.  Tune in to this speed-dating style introductory episode to get to know your hosts, how they feel about the upcoming season, their travel plans for the year, and their dream for Black Women.  Connect with us further by following us on social media: Akilah - Instagram: @akilahffriend Dawn - YouTube: @BreakofDM, Instagram and Twitter: @_dawnmontgomery Podcast - Instagram: @monumentstome https://www.instagram.com/monumentstome/  https://www.instagram.com/akilahffriend/  https://www.instagram.com/_dawnmontgomery/  https://www.youtube.com/@BreakofDM/ 

Today, as we close out season 1, we bring the Monuments to Me podcast back home as we talk about how black women are winning and the huge role REVOLT plays in this space. We are joined by Monique Chenault, president of REVOLT News at REVOLT Media & TV (a cable network owned by Diddy which specializes in creating and cultivating programming for Black audiences), Head of REVOLT Studios, Atlanta, and creator of REVOLT's series, “Black Girl Stuff”.   A UCLA grad who started in local news, her journey as a writer and executive producer has led her to become a non-fiction programming specialist with 25 years of industry experience and four Emmy nominations. In this episode, we discuss how Black women are having an extraordinary renaissance right now after being in the background for so long. We discuss how REVOLT News intentionally elevates, recognizes, and puts Black women and their stories at the forefront. We also explore the importance of Black people having their own media outlets to uplift our stories. Join us for this discussion about the significant role of diverse non-fiction media in Black communities and how it is helping Black women win by ensuring they are represented and allowing them to be their real selves. Black Girl Stuff

Today on the Monuments to Me podcast, we're here to talk about voice amplification. More specifically, we're discussing how we amplify the voices of Black women, especially when everyone doesn't have a microphone. To help us navigate this discussion, we're joined by Christal D. Jordan and Ardre Orie. Christal is a journalist and writer for newspapers and radio before noticing the lack of opportunities for Black women's voices to be heard. Now, she's a publicist, author, and YouTuber who talks about relationships and things that Black women talk about amongst themselves. Andre is a celebrity ghostwriter, the founder of 13th and Joan Publishing House, and the executive producer of Lipstick Monologues. In this episode, we  discuss how we even begin amplifying our own voices. We discuss the obstacles and gatekeepers of our voices in the mainstream media. We also discuss the effects of finding your own voice, overcoming the range of emotions once your story is published, and the issue of sharing traumatic experiences in our stories as Black women.  Join us for this discussion about the responsibilities we have when it comes to amplifying voices of all types, the struggles of amplifying voices that you might not agree with, and the different ways to distribute the voices that need to be heard. Tune in to this episode and be inspired. To learn more about our hosts and guest, make sure you check out their below pages. Tyi @tyi.mccray Akilah @akilahffriend Ardre Orie Christal D. Jordan Monuments to Me Show: @monumentstome And please email the show at Monumentstomepodcast@gmail.com

What does it mean to be full and comfortable with being yourself within the constraints of the mainstream media industry? Sharron Reed and Ann Hill Bond join us today to discuss how Black women in media can make their mark while finding joy and authenticity. Sharon Reed is a news anchor in major markets, such as Atlanta and Cleveland. She's worked on National Television as a correspondent and morning host. Ann Hill Bond has been a journalist for the past 6 years, a mother to 3 children, and someone with a strong footing in the historian and preservation world. They joined the Monuments to Me podcast to chat all about being Black women who have made their mark in both the journalism and media fields. We discuss the sustainability of Black Press and Black News, the difference in experience between print and being an anchor on air, and how to get power back when it comes to owning your own voice within the constraints of mainstream media. Together, we touch on the idea of entrepreneurship and how Black women are creating their own opportunities and so much more. Tune in to this episode and get ready to be inspired by Sharon and Ann. To learn more about our hosts and guest, make sure you check out their Instagram pages. Tyi @tyi.mccray Akilah @akilahffriend Monuments to Me Show: @monumentstome And please email the show at Monumentstomepodcast@gmail.com

We have a very special episode of Monuments to Me, all about self-expression, creativity, and telling your story. Tamika Newhouse is a natural-born creator and storyteller. She has written and published 18 books, and she runs an independent publishing house called Delphine Publications, where she's published well over 300 titles. Kimberly Jones is a New York Times bestselling author, NAACP Image award nominee, GC Germany Voice of the Year, and Route 100 most influential African Americans. She's also a filmmaker and a mother. Both influential ladies join us today to chat about the purity of reading and how we can encourage more people to engage with it. They also share how they're able to bring a story to life as artists and writers, the gaps and opportunities that still exist in the literary space for Black women, and how Black women can make their mark in their own version of activism. We discuss authenticity and the most how both of them are able to hold on to that in the literary world. This is an empowering episode that reminds Black women to feel empowered through their stories. Tune in and hear the words of encouragement from Tamika and Kimberly, so you can exercise your creativity and take control of your story. To learn more about our hosts and guest, make sure you check out their Instagram pages. Tyi @tyi.mccray Akilah @akilahffriend Monuments to Me Show: @monumentstome And please email the show at Monumentstomepodcast@gmail.com

Today on the Monuments to Me podcast, we're joined by Ensa Huger. Ensa is an accountant, speaker, author, consultant, and entrepreneur enthusiast. She's an Atlanta native and accounting graduate from George State, and she loves all things finance and empowerment. In today's episode, Ensa is sharing the tools, information, and resources to help Black women grow in the finance space, build wealth, and pursue financial empowerment. Together, we discuss Ensa's unique approach to finances as fitness. We also discuss how to identify your financial decisions as wise choices or ones that come from an emotional place. We talk about budgeting, how Ensa helps businesses get financially healthy, and why corporate America is a toxic environment – especially for Black women. This is an episode with all the tools you need to achieve financial freedom and feel empowered with your financial situation. So tune in and take notes; you won't want to miss this. To learn more about our hosts and guest, make sure you check out their Instagram pages. Tyi @tyi.mccray Akilah @akilahffriend Monuments to Me Show: @monumentstome And please email the show at Monumentstomepodcast@gmail.com

A few episodes ago, we discussed fibroids and how it affects Black women. Today, Dr. Soyini Hawkins joins the Monuments to Me podcast to chat more in-depth about understanding infertility, reproductive justice, and how you can take your own fertility into your own hands. Dr. Soyini Hawkins is a Gynecologist who specializes in the minimally invasive surgical management of fibroids, endometriosis, and pelvic pain. She is specifically dedicated to helping Black women own their respective fertility journeys. In today's episode, Dr. Soyini Hawkins shares her wealth of knowledge from understanding infertility along with other ailments associated with reproductive health, such as endometriosis and PCOS. She shares lifestyle changes that individuals can explore in order to support their fertility, how Black women specifically can protect their fertility and advocate for reproductive health, and why it's so important to be respectful of other reproductive choices in the name of reproductive justice. This is an incredibly important episode for Black women and women everywhere. So tune in, take notes, and use the knowledge that Dr. Soyini Hawkins shares to empower your reproductive health and choices. To learn more about our hosts and guest, make sure you check out their Instagram pages. Tyi @tyi.mccray Akilah @akilahffriend Monuments to Me Show: @monumentstome And please email the show at Monumentstomepodcast@gmail.com

We are joined by one of the most well-known couples in the South on today's episode of the Monuments to Me podcast. Brandé Elise, a voiceover actor and TV host, and Danielle Gray, a marker and graphic designer, join us today to share all about their company, Unoia. Established in Atlanta, Unoia has taken the CBD world by storm with their signature honey and agave products. Brandé and Danielle share their journey in the marijuana industry, and they help us understand the difference between CBD and THC. They also share how their products are centered around finding peace and different mindfulness practices, the importance of representation as Black and queer women, and how they manage to juggle their love and business relationship. Get ready to get hooked in as Danielle and Brande's energy and charisma can be felt right through the microphone. So tune in and learn all about CBD, THC, representation, business, and love. To learn more about our hosts and guest, make sure you check out their Instagram pages. Tyi @tyi.mccray Akilah @akilahffriend Monuments to Me Show: @monumentstome And please email the show at Monumentstomepodcast@gmail.com

Today's episode of the Monuments to Me is going to be a spicy one. We're joined by none other than Medinah Monroe and Kiki Alexandra, the brilliant, bright, and funny duo behind the Cocktales: Dirty Discussions podcast. Medinah and Kiki are removing the thin, laced veil between dating for purpose and dating for pleasure. They talk about sex in a completely unfiltered way that paves the way for liberation, full expression, and allowance to ask for what you want. They share their thoughts on body counts (and what society might deem as a “respectful” number), the biggest misconceptions on sex from a female perspective, how to up your sex game, and how to take your dating beyond pleasure. This episode removes all the stigmas around sex, so join Medinah and Kiki for this fun and oh-so-intimate discussion and learn how you can spice your sex life up unapologetically. To learn more about our hosts and guest, make sure you check out their Instagram pages. Tyi @tyi.mccray Akilah @akilahffriend Kiki @kikisaidso Medinah @coffeebeandean And please email the show at Monumentstomepodcast@gmail.com

What is the role that Black women play in moving industries and infrastructure within their communities? Akilah and Tyi speak with Dr. Key Hallmon and Kellye Britton to dive deep into the ways Black women in business, youth, and small business initiatives within Atlanta are ever-thriving and ever-growing. Dr. Key Hallmon is the founder of 3 companies and a partnership, including Village Market, Village Retail, and an amazing nonprofit, Our Village. She is also the co-founder of Three Ten Studios and has spent the last couple of years celebrating and amplifying Black businesses. Through her and her business's efforts, they've been able to make a substation economic impact in the city of Atlanta by contributing $7.3 million dollars in direct sales to Black businesses. Kellye Britton, inspired by Dr. Key's journey, has also started 3 businesses after having worked in the music industry for 13 years. For the last four and a half years, she's been working at a nonprofit organization that focuses on youth development and education. In this incredibly insightful episode, Dr. Key and Kellye share their wealth of knowledge on running a business and entrepreneurship. They discuss how new entrepreneurs can decide which direction to take when it comes to nonprofit and for-profit businesses. They also discuss the different tactics for each business type, their drive to build their own empire, and the key mindset that is most commonly seen in successful entrepreneurs. Dr. Key and Kellye share their personal opinions of the most important trait to have as an entrepreneur at any step of the journey, and they discuss the power of the Black dollar, not only when it comes to starting businesses but as it pertains to the American economy as a whole. Tune in to this educational and inspirational episode to hear Dr. Key and Kellye's advice and stories as Black women in the entrepreneurship space. To learn more about our hosts and guest, make sure you check out their Instagram pages. Tyi @tyi.mccray Akilah @akilahffriend Dr. Key Hallmon @drkeyhallmon Kellye Britton @_themissb_ And please email the show at Monumentstomepodcast@gmail.com

Today, Akilah and Tyi are joined by Anana Parris and Ecleynne Mercy. Both Anana Parris and Ecleynne Mercy are daughters of revolutionaries, and they live up to their ancestry by being radical revolutionaries paving the way for self-care and rest for Black women.  Anana Parris is an excellent and devoted mom to her son. She focuses on liberation and her devout love for supporting Black women. Ecleynne Mercy is an attorney who has carried her ancestral revolutionary spirit with her. She's also a part of the founding base of the wellness and injustice group, as well as a phenomenal creative writer. In this episode, Anana and Ecleynne share how they came together to do the remarkable work that they do. They discuss how they collectively decided that self-care, justice, and activism are 3 inseparable words. Then, both women share why the act of self-care, especially as it pertains to Black women, is an incredibly revolutionary act. From redefining self-care from bubble baths to little daily acts that check in with yourself, to assessing and fulfilling your spiritual and emotional needs, this episode is a must for anyone who wants to practice the act of self-care and rest. Tune in as Anana and Ecleynne share their incredibly inspirational stories while also bestowing a great self-care exercise for you to practice moving forward.  To learn more about our hosts and guest, make sure you check out their Instagram pages. Tyi @tyi.mccray Akilah @akilahffriend Anana @ananajohariharrisparris Ecleynne @mercylaw_ga And please email the show at Monumentstomepodcast@gmail.com

In today's episode of the Monuments to Me podcast, Akilah and Tyi are speaking with Ashley Gardner and Tanika Valburn about fibroids. This is an important conversation for women everywhere, whether you're new to the term fibroids, or have heard it before and are unsure of what it means. Tanika Valburn is a journalist by trade who is also the founder of the White Dress Project, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness of uterine fibroids and ensuring that anyone who suffers from fibroids is able to manage life. Ashley Gardner is a project manager at Google by day and content creator by night. She is passionate about equity and diversity and uses her digital platform to talk about lifestyle, including her experience getting a hysterectomy at the age of 32. In this episode, Tanika and Ashley explain what fibroids are and why it is so important, especially for Black women, to have this conversation more frequently and openly. Then, they explain the surgical and medical terms commonly associated with fibroids in a more digestible way as Ashley opens up about her personal experience. The topic of having open conversations regarding feminine health, becoming your best health advocate, and considering your mental health along with your physical health. This is an incredibly important conversation aimed at educating and supporting you in becoming your best health advocate. So tune in, take notes, and get ready to learn from these inspirational women. To learn more about our hosts and guest, make sure you check out their Instagram pages. Tyi @tyi.mccray Akilah @akilahffriend Ashley @growingwiththegardners Tanika @wecanwearwhite And please email the show at Monumentstomepodcast@gmail.com

Dating in 2022 can feel like the hunger games, but does it have to be? Tyi and Akilah tackle the questions we've all had about finding our true match. This week they are joined by celebrity dating coach Damona Hoffman who has been coaching singles on how to find love online and offline for over 15 years and host of podcast Dates & Mates and Koereyelle, entrepreneurs and host of the Girl Stop Playin Podcast, where she encourages women to stop playing with their potential and start working for what they want in life and love. These two dynamic women share how they see the dating space and what would be their top tips for those of us looking for love. So if you're wondering if it's time to make a change in your dating strategy or you're just looking for some motivation to keep going, this episode is for you! To learn more about our hosts and guest, make sure you check out their Instagram pages. Tyi @tyi.mccray Akilah @akilahffriend Koereyelle @koereyelle Damona @damonahoffman And please email the show at Monumentstomepodcast@gmail.com

9-5 jobs can feel all-consuming. Oftentimes, people in the corporate world don't feel like they have the time and space to explore their hobbies and interests, or even spend time with their families. If this is you, or you've just been laid off of your 9-5 job, listen up. Life is short, it's probably time to switch things up! Between the two of them, Tyi and Akilah have a wealth of knowledge and experience in leaving corporate life to pursue other endeavors. In this discussion, Tyi and Akilah aim to shift the narrative around leaving your 9-5 job by talking about what it really means to leave corporate life and pivot in your career. From getting laid off to confidently leaving your day job, this conversation dives deep into what it's like to be fresh out of corporate life and the crucial steps you need to take before leaving your job. If tomorrow is not promised, do you want to give your full day to what you're doing right now? To learn more about our hosts Akilah and Tyi make sure you check out their Instagram pages. Tyi @tyi.mccray Akilah @akilahffriend And please email the show at Monumentstomepodcast@gmail.com

What does it mean to be a Black woman? This is a question that garners a very diverse response. Denene Millner and Sharonda L. Britton join the show to help us answer this question while exploring the current state of Black womanhood. Denene Millner is a New York Times bestselling author and frequent contributor to publications such as NPR, Essence, and Glamor. Sharonda L. Britton is the VP of customer relations and customer relationship marketing at Loewe.  Bringing their wildly different backgrounds to the table, Denene and Sharonda highlight the important fact that Black women are not a monolith. Throughout the discussion, you'll find differences in opinions and experiences, all of which are valid in and of themselves. Starting with Denene and Sharonda's respective thoughts on the current state of Black womanhood, the conversation then moves into how both of them respectively achieve success while balancing resilience and accomplishments.  This conversation dives deep into the issues of authenticity and assimilation, the distinction of Black women as compared to other women, and thoughts on spaces created for Black women. We invite you to tune into this conversation to experience the different viewpoints and opinions on what the current state of Black womanhood is today. To learn more about our hosts Akilah and Tyi make sure you check out their Instagram pages. Tyi @tyi.mccray Akilah @akilahffriend And please email the show at Monumentstomepodcast@gmail.com

It has been a difficult and heavy couple of months. With the overturning of Roe v. Wade, many women, especially Black women, are left feeling scared, worried, and unheard. Judge Shermela Williams and Monica Simpson join the Monuments to Me podcast to help make sense of it all. Judge Shermela Williams was elected to be superior court judge in 2021, making her a part of a small rare club of Black female judges. Prior to her election, she was a prosecutor and criminal defense attorney. Monica Simpson is a dynamic, queer, Black woman from North Carolina. She is the executive director of Sister Song, a Southern-based, women of color reproductive justice collective. Monica has dedicated her life and career to activism, working in multiple areas from the prison industry, violence against Black women, and LGBTQ+ issues. In this conversation, Monica and Judge Shermela break down how we got to the overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022 so that we can better understand how and why this happened. Then, they share why it's important to understand how this ruling doesn't just affect Black women, but Black women of a certain socioeconomic status and what this means for them. The issue of white supremacy is also discussed as it is deeply interlaced with this ruling. Finally, Judge Shermela and Monica share how they're taking care of their mental health and well-being since their line of work is incredibly taxing and heavy. This episode is a must-listen for women everywhere as we try our best to move forward and create a truly accessible society where all women have the basic right of bodily autonomy. To learn more about our hosts Akilah and Tyi make sure you check out their Instagram pages. Tyi @tyi.mccray Akilah @akilahffriend And please email the show at Monumentstomepodcast@gmail.com

In the very first episode of Monuments to Me, your hosts - Akilah Ffriend and Tyi McCray are taking you through the heart and soul of this brand new show. This episode will introduce you to both Akilah and Tyi, their varied backgrounds, who they are outside of the podcast world, and what this show means to them. Then, Akilah and Tyi discuss their goals and dreams for Monuments to Me, as well as their vision for Black women. Monuments to Me is a podcast for Black women that will discuss the multifaceted topics of colorism, access injustice, racism, and so much more. And Akilah and Tyi will be leading important conversations with guests that highlight the diaspora of Black women around the world. Tune in to this introductory episode to the Monuments to Me podcast and prepare for an exciting yet important show ahead! Connect with the host by following them on social media Akilah - https://www.instagram.com/akilahffriend/ Tyi - https://www.instagram.com/tyi.mccray/