My Divine Life with Jameelah Davis

It's not cute to talk badly about ourselves. If we wouldn't tear a stranger down with really critical words, why would we do it to ourselves? In today's episode, I discuss how to stand in your greatness and stop all that negative self-talk. I haven't always been kind to myself. But when I learned that the subconscious mind's job is to make our thoughts reality, I realized I needed to be more mindful of my thoughts about myself, my business and relationships. So, listen to today's episode to hear ways that you can learn how to watch your mouth when talking to yourself.   Show Notes: [1:00] - It's critical to tell ourselves to "watch your mouth" when we talk to ourselves. [4:30] - Jameelah challenges us to be mindful of the adverse things we say to ourselves everyday. [6:55] - Recounting her past negative self-talk, Jameelah reflects on how she now loves herself like she loves others. [9:00] - Seeking great things is the purest form of God. [11:37] - When she finds herself wanting to be negative with herself Jameelah tries to be mindful and give herself grace. [15:00] - Sometimes we get agitated when we hear things that aren't in alignment with what we know -- or think we know our reality to be. [17:20] - Being spiritually grounded helps Jameelah's subconscious mind and conscious mind become aligned. [20:00] - Our subconscious mind is like a task minded employee, it just follows your directions to a T without any form of critical thinking.  [23:11] - If there is a specific outcome you want, and it aligns with the will of God, it's going to happen. [25:28] - Our brains are wired to operate in the past, it's a bank of memories that our mind and body uses to protect us from danger. [28:12] - Speaking like the person you want to be and believing you deserve good things can help manifest that into reality. [32:00] - It's not the things Jameelah has that has made her life great. It was her speaking optimistically to herself and God inserting those things into her path to give her the life she wanted. [35:02] - Making change is going to be uncomfortable, but it's so necessary to get the life you want. [37:03] - Jameelah reads excerpts from her journals from a time when she was full of negative self-talk. [39:25] - God has a purpose for our lives but He's not going to take us to the next level until we've learned the lessons. [41:55] - Jameelah reads excerpts from her journals from a time after she had started having a positive mindset. [46:00] - Even if she's going through some tough times, Jameelah can still see God is still giving her great things.   Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Divine on Instagram

Welcome back to another season of the My Divine Life Podcast! It's been a long time. About a year, actually, and a lot has happened. So in this episode, let's get caught up. There have been a lot of tumultuous things in my life that have caused this podcast to take a backseat. But blessings are on the horizon and my heart and God have been telling me to take this microphone back out. Over this time away, I've learned a lot of lessons and have a lot of things planned for its return.  Welcome back!   Show Notes: [0:52] - A lot has been going on since the last season of My Divine Life. God has turned things around for me. [1:57] - There have been some tumultuous things in my life and blessings are on the horizon. [2:59] - Married to Real Estate premiered on HGTV and we are working on season 2. The business is doing well and I got married! [5:50] - We are not quiet about the relationships that matter the most. So, I won't be quiet about my relationship with God. This has become even more apparent to me and the important people in my life have been showing up. [8:08] - I recorded a few guest interview episodes several months ago that will be posted eventually.  [9:21] - With everything going on, I also got my real estate license! [10:51] - My service mindset has grown and I realized that it's okay to fill your own cup when needed but follow the drive to serve. [12:14] - My journey is my unique journey and it is only mine. [15:30] - When starting your Bible study journey, Start with the Gospels. When you know better, you do better. [17:08] - When I open my mouth, I want it to be something of substance. [19:42] - It might take a long time to find your way in spirituality. This is the experience I have had and I continue to find my way. [27:53] - The goals for the podcast moving forward are episodes every other week as I learn to pull things off of my plate.    Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Divine on Instagram

As we all continue on our divine transformation journeys, we are digging into a concept that I have been thinking about and honing in on for about a year. And as I've really broken it down for myself and of course compared it to interior design, it all clicked. So today's episode is all about spending our emotions like money and I know I am guilty of overspending.    Just like finances, we spend our emotions on relationships, social interactions, and scenarios. Eventually, you can go bankrupt and you cannot pour from an empty cup. Listen to hear an excerpt of some writing I have been doing that demonstrates my breaking point and my emotional debt. Find out how you can rebuild your emotional wealth and how to avoid people and relationships that are too expensive. Show Notes: [1:04] - Jameelah's design business has been very intentional on the type of client she attracts. They focus on value. [2:47] - The term expensive is defined as something that has high cost or sacrifice. [4:03] - Most of us need to be conscious of what we spend our money and our time on. [5:05] - Jameelah gives an example of a scenario that is emotionally expensive. [6:14] - What about being in a relationship where reciprocity is non-existent? [7:23] - Relationships don't need so much work and sacrifice if they value you. [8:16] - Anyone who requires you to show up as someone other than your true authentic self is too emotionally expensive. [9:27] - When you overspend on one relationship, the ones who really need you suffer. [11:38] - Everyone's mental and emotional capacity is different so don't compare. [12:33] - Just like finances, you can go into emotional debt. [14:01] - There are physical and behavioral consequences to emotional deficits. [14:49] - Jameelah shares a written excerpt from a future book she is working on. [17:12] - The excerpt demonstrates her emotional breaking point. [18:36] - You cannot pour from an empty cup. [19:49] - She could have stayed because she had rebuilt her emotional wealth, but leaving her marriage made her stronger.  [21:03] - You have to know what you are willing to spend in each relationship and scenario. Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Divine on Instagram

For this week in divine transformation we are talking about self-regulation. What is it and why is it important to know how to do it? As someone with a history of high levels of anxiety and anxiety attacks, I have come to find self-regulation strategies. Most of the time, they work. And sometimes, they don't. Recently, things got to be too much and I had to ask for help. Asking for help is crucial when you need it and what I discovered that I was doing was “waiting for the other shoe to drop.” When things are going so great, sometimes we develop anxiety while we brace ourselves for something catastrophic to take it all away. So in this episode, listen for encouragement that things are okay and there is nothing wrong with needing help.   Show Notes: [0:54] - We all may not have walked the same path, but Jameelah understands doubt, worry, grief, and self-sabotage. [2:14] - Jameelah's brother had a daughter the day after her late daughter's birthday. [3:06] - Everything is generally exciting right now, but self-sabotage sneaks in. [4:28] - When things are going well, Jameelah realized she was waiting for something catastrophic to happen to wipe it all away. [6:45] - Some hard conversations needed to happen and this showed Jameelah that she is not okay with conflict. [7:39] - With anxiety attacks, reality has no place. [9:28] - We don't want to bother friends when we feel this way, but Jameelah knew she needed someone who understood what she was experiencing. [11:02] - It is important to realize when you need support but it is more important to communicate when you do. [12:40] - You are in a different place than you were previously. It is okay and you are prepared. [14:10] - There is nothing wrong with asking for help.   Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Divine on Instagram

We always hear about the red flags and how to spot them. But what about the green flags? What about the good things? In today's episode of divine transformation, we're talking about the good. I have a lot of good things to share that are happening in my life and I attribute them to embracing the good in spite of the bad. If you open your eyes, God gives you a preview of what's to come. Although this has been a year of challenges, surprises, and major life events, it has turned into the best year of my life. So listen on to find out what makes green flags unique and why they shouldn't be ignored. Show Notes: [1:11] - Jameelah announces that she is engaged and this is the best year of her life. [2:10] - Is something happening to you or for you? [4:10] - Lauren Wesley Designs, Jameelah's design company, has been cast on a new HGTV show. [6:03] - Jameelah feels equipped to embrace all the love and support from people who care about her. She feels that everything has been timely. [7:13] - We talk about avoiding red flags, we don't really talk about how we also ignore green flags. [8:24] - Understanding the green flags will help you have a balance of positive and negative. What are the good things? [9:50] - Even if someone doesn't check off all the boxes, how many green flags do you see in a relationship? [10:48] - Listening is a lost art for many people. Truly listen. [12:31] - Jameelah compares green and red flags in relationships to those in interior design. [14:24] - Are you immediately jumping into something and picking the other person apart? [16:10] - Give things some time. Listen and get to know somebody. [17:50] - Look closely, ask questions, and be transparent about your situation. [19:11] - The first green flag Jameelah had about her fiance is that he welcomed her into his life fully. [20:20] - Jameelah never feels like she has to prove herself. [22:05] - Another green flag was the environment of acceptance and trust. [23:28] - Once you realize you don't need fillers and that you are amazing just the way you are, you will go farther in life. [24:51] - Are you able to embrace the good? [26:14] - Support and understanding in a partner is a game changer for Jameelah after leaving her previous marriage. [27:51] - Jameelah knew she could try to salvage her marriage but just because she could doesn't mean she should. She decided to leave and follow her intuition. [30:50] - If you open your eyes, God will give you a little preview of what is coming. Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Divine on Instagram

In today's straight to the point episode, we're talking about shopping around. In design, I tend to go to my trusted vendors. But when I first got started, I looked all over trying to find the perfect piece. Honestly, all that did was create confusion, waste my time, and waste money. This is the same when it comes to big decisions in life. When we are faced with a decision, we often know what our intuition is telling us. But instead of listening, we “shop around.” That means, we talk it over so many times to so many different people to see what they think. This just wastes time. So, listen to this quick tidbit on what shopping your dream around can do and what you should do instead. Show Notes: [1:06] - In interior design, Jameelah goes to her trusted vendors but when she first started, she would go all over looking for different options. [2:15] - When you're faced with a decision, we shop our dream around and take it to a lot of people to see if they approve. It wastes time. [3:13] - Jameelah admits that sometimes she cares too much about what people think. [4:10] - Shopping around creates confusion. Follow your intuition. [5:40] - The only one you need to consult with is God. [6:18] - Only you can live your life. [7:15] - Don't put your big decisions on other people. Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Divine on Instagram

As an interior designer, one of my all-time favorite rooms to design is the guest room. I have many reasons why, but the main one is that clients want designs that are a little different for the guest room than the other more frequently used spaces and that's just plain fun. But when we compare the guest room design to soul design, there's a deeper meaning.  When it comes to soul design, the guest room is the space you have for others and their opinions. We want to be accommodating and comfortable but at what cost? We don't want everyone overstaying their welcome or treating us like a hotel. In this episode, I explain how the guest room needs boundaries and how sometimes the need to reevaluate existing boundaries will arise.  Show Notes: [0:45] - Being comfortable in your body is an amazing form of freedom. [1:54] - The messages you get from the people around you have an impact on your self- esteem. [3:11] - Frequently used rooms have specific needs. But the guest room is a room where you can design a little more “off the wall.” [4:16] - Many of Jameelah's clients are the first in their families to have achieved the level of success to afford her services. [5:24] - You can make your guest room as a hotel, but think about how people treat hotels. Jameelah advises not to make people too comfortable. [7:00] - Guest rooms should be comfortable and accommodating, but you don't want people to stay too long. [8:15] - If you feel that you can't be yourself, you need to reevaluate your boundaries. [9:40] - Jameelah explains how being too trusting during a difficult time caused her to reevaluate her boundaries and those in her circle. [10:51] - Not everyone deserves the same boundaries. Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Divine on Instagram

Water Into Wine On this week's episode of divine transformation, we're taking inventory of what we already have and turning it into wine. So often, we want new things to help us get to the next level. We are waiting till something happens before we take the next step. What will happen then is that we'll get stuck waiting. As always, my interior design analogy works perfectly with this concept as we take inventory of what we already have to better design our own souls. Listen on to find out my tips on making do with what you have, thanking the things that are no longer serving you or bringing your joy, and leveling up. You, too, can live a very fulfilled life. Show Notes: [1:01] - Jameelah is currently very fulfilled in her life at the moment and wants to guide us to feel the same. [1:46] - In interior design, Jameelah takes inventory with clients during a consultation. [2:49] - When talking about soul design, make sure you are not selling yourself short. [4:01] - Jameelah's design company in the beginning was known to “turn water into wine,” by working miracles with small budgets and building their portfolio. [4:56] - Everything you have right now is enough to take the next step. [6:11] - Prioritize and plan ahead to avoid being wasteful and risking heartache. [7:27] - Not only do you have enough but you need to realize that you are enough. [8:43] - Jameelah admits that at the beginning of her business, she did not feel like she was enough to be the face of her brand. [10:08] - Take inventory of what you already have and analyze its usefulness. [11:19] - Don't hold on to things you don't love just because you spent money on it. [12:19] - How far can you go with what you already have? [13:47] - Being authentic means to live your truth and not cover it up. [15:05] - Jameelah shares a Bible scripture that has stuck with her through the years. Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Divine on Instagram Listen on Podnews Jameelah Divine on Instagram

Let's get started with a bang. After the previous episode, we know that I've been on quite the journey recently. How have I been able to keep it together? Over the years, I've developed my own personal healing toolkit, and I attribute a lot of my growth to doing these specific things. Remember that at the My Divine Life Podcast, we empower ourselves with enough courage to divinely design every aspect of our lives the way God purposed it to be. Through the years of developing this toolkit, God has helped me design tools for reflection, education, and purpose. This is “interior design” like you've never heard of: soul design.   Listen on to find out about the healing toolkit and how powerful it can be.   Show Notes: [1:09] - For this podcast, “interior design” really means “soul design.” [2:53] - The first thing that comes to your mind is what you really want. [4:06] - Push aside what others might think because people will never be satisfied. [5:04] - At the end of the day, this is your life to live. Stick by your decisions. [6:24] - Jameelah was a hairstylist for 15 years and admits that it was no longer serving her and lighting her up. [7:48] - Start with a brain dump activity. Write down or type up on your phone everything you can think of when you ask yourself “What do I want?” [9:00] - When you write down the people who are your anchors, who are the people you hesitate to write down? [10:22] - Jameelah compares interior design to life design. [12:11] - On her journey, Jameelah has developed a toolkit to help her get through the hard things. [13:09] - The first thing in Jameelah's toolkit is listening to podcasts. [15:46] - Jameelah is an auditory learner so podcasts and audiobooks are great for her. [16:24] - One of the podcasts Jameelah recommends that helped her is Patrice Washington's Redefining Wealth Podcast. [18:41] - Jameelah also recommends Woman Evolve. This podcast gave her a feeling of sisterhood. [21:13] - A pivotal podcast for Jameelah regarding marriage and couples has been Dead Ass with Khadeen and Devale. [23:10] - The fourth podcast that Jameelah recommends is The Love Hour. [24:33] - Therapy for Black Girls is another highly recommended podcast.

Welcome to Season 3 of the My Divine Life Podcast! I am so glad to have you here with me today for this return for a better than ever season. One thing that has not changed is that we empower ourselves with enough courage to divinely design every aspect of our lives the way that God purposed it to be.    It has been a while since Season 2 ended abruptly and if you've been following on social media, you'll know why. Through the ups and downs of the last several months, I'm ready to share my truth and move forward with the amazing community of friends, family, followers, and listeners. Thank you for being here and let's get started! Show Notes: [0:52] - Jameelah has encountered big shifts in her life starting in February of this year. [2:03] - Having met siblings she did not know she had, Jameelah knows she has needed them in her life. [3:15] - She describes her fear of moving forward with a divorce and the courage she needed to do so. [5:25] - When you're making a big decision and it is scary, you have to move. If you allow idle time, you will allow others to impact your decision. [7:01] - When we share our story, it helps the next person. [8:13] - There are not always a lot of resources readily available to navigate through the death of a marriage. [9:29] - Although it was hard, Jameelah is proud of her decision to leave. [11:01] - The goal of this podcast moving forward is to provide tools. [11:56] - Season 3 will bring us back to the CASE method. [14:34] - Thank you for rallying behind Jameelah during this challenging time. [15:07] - Jameelah dedicates this episode and her transformation to her mother. [16:44] - Jameelah reads a letter that she wrote to her mother. [18:45] - Although currently happily living her life, Jameelah does take time to reflect on the difficulty of the last few months. [19:58] - Jameelah thanks the people in her life that have helped her through challenges. Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Divine on Instagram

After a great trip to meet my sister and bonding time with my niece, I am back for a short episode on something that has been on my heart. It’s okay to be wrong. We are constantly growing and learning and making mistakes. That’s okay.    Today’s episode is a short motivational boost to encourage you to speak your mind and say what’s on your heart in the moment. Know that somewhere down the line, you might not feel the same way in the future. We will let life pass us by if we continue trying to do everything right or say the right things.   Show Notes: [1:01] - Meeting her sister that she just recently found out she had was an amazing experience for Jameelah. [1:48] - In addition to meeting her sister, Jameelah was able to bring her niece with her on the trip and took her to Ulta. It was a great bonding experience. [3:04] - Jameelah also got to talk to her brother over the last weekend which was nice because they haven’t spoken in a long time. [4:03] - So many times, people feel like they have to be right, but it's okay to be wrong. [4:33] - There are things that we may believe are right or wrong and then five years later, have a completely different outlook. That’s okay. People learn and change. [5:16] - Jameelah uses a previous podcast she was a cohost on years ago as an example of people growing and learning more. She was firm in her belief that she was right, but now she knows that she played a role in the situation. [6:34] - You need to be able to speak your mind and say what’s on your heart, knowing that somewhere down the line you might not feel the same way. That’s okay. [7:01] - We will let life pass us by if we continue trying to do everything right or say the right things. [8:03] - When you’re in different phases in your life, you will grow and change. That doesn’t mean the way you thought in the past is bad.  [8:58] - You aren’t going to always learn things the easy way. There won’t always be someone there to tell you what to do. It’s okay to make mistakes. [9:30] - Hold yourself accountable to your mistakes, self-correct, and move on. [10:11] - Jameelah is very open that she learned how to self-correct through therapy. [11:01] - Moving forward, the podcast may not be as robust with Jameelah’s current situation, but she will continue to create content. Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Davis on Instagram

You’ve waited through a few episodes, but I have to get it out. There has been a lot going on in my life and I have to say, this is something I never would have expected. Have you ever been blindsided by something completely crazy?    Here at the My Divine Life Podcast we empower ourselves with enough courage to divinely design every aspect of our lives the way God purposed it to be. And through all the ups and downs, remember that God has a plan. Everything life throws at us is to help us learn and grow into who we are meant to be. I need to remember that and be strong, because this craziness is something else. Show Notes: [0:52] - At the time of recording, it is just one day before Jameelah gets on a plane to meet her long lost sister. [1:27] - It has been on her mind in recent years that the person Jameelah knows as her dad was not her real dad. But she has pushed that thought aside. [2:12] - During an appointment with her spiritual advisor, she decided to ask if her father was her birth father. [3:09] - After that meeting, Jameelah reached out to her mother who she does not have the best relationship with. She also looked at her ancestry.com. [4:13] - When asked if her dad was her birth father, Jameelah’s mom said that she knew this day would come. [4:40] - Jameelah shares the conversation she had with her mother. Both her mother and the person she has known to be her father knew that it was a possibility that her birth father was a different person. [5:51] - There was not a test done to confirm who Jameelah’s birth father is but she knows that her dad chose her as his daughter regardless. [6:13] - This experience crushed Jameelah and she doesn’t know how to explain it. [6:56] - Jameelah decided to search for her birth father. Her and her husband hired a private investigator who located him. [7:43] - Through this, she has found that she has three siblings. [8:21] - The dad who raised her is still her dad but she longs now to have a connection with this part of her family. [9:24] - Within days of finding out this news, another bomb was dropped on Jameelah but she will reveal it at a later date. [9:50] - She has processed this to a certain degree, but will be healing for a while. [10:29] - Through all of this, Jameelah is convinced that she is one of the strongest people she knows and all this craziness is God’s way of showing her her own strength and preparing her for greatness. Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Davis on Instagram

Let’s talk about keeping our vibrations high today. I know, it is such a buzz word right now, especially on social media. Because of that, I think it is important to take a step back and think about what it really means to be high vibing.    Listen, life has been quite a doozy for me lately and keeping those vibrations high isn’t always easy. But I know, through journaling and meditation, that the things happening in my life are necessary for me to level up in life. My future self is counting on me and through complete transparency, we’re in this together. This episode is all about what it means to have a high vibration, how to journal your way into finding that vibration, and how to maneuver through painful life lessons. Show Notes: [0:56] - Jameelah can’t share exactly the things that have been happening in her life but can share that she has gotten a lot of bad news, good news, and worse news lately. [1:44] - At the current moment, Jameelah isn’t sure if she has really good emotional stamina or if she is in shock and doesn’t know how to process. [2:30] - Although going through a hard time, Jameelah feels that she has gained a new and stronger sense of confidence through handling recent events. [3:37] - Jameelah journaled about three weeks ago about maneuvering through high and low vibrations and feels that God was really listening to prepare her for recent events in her life. [4:48] - We have to start leaning into our intuition, which is God’s voice. We have to learn to trust ourselves and that gut feeling. [6:13] - Having a high vibration doesn’t mean that you’re happy all the time. Regardless of what you see on social media, you have to understand that your vibration is wholly determined by you. [7:03] - Jameelah describes an actionable journaling exercise to do right now to understand that love is the center of everything. [8:15] - High vibration is simply a choice without lowering your boundaries. [9:14] - Things that happen in lower vibrations are usually attacks and oftentimes they are confused with lessons. Jameelah explains what this means and how to tell the difference. [10:17] - God never exists in a low vibration. Lessons are not attacks. They come to help you grow. God needs you to learn a specific lesson to get you ready to get to the next level in your life. [12:24] - In her recent grief, Jameelah explains that she had to take a moment to commune with God. He made it abundantly clear that her experience is necessary in her growth and she needs to respect it. [13:10] - Jameelah compares self-care and high vibrations to a machine performing at its optimal performance. [14:37] - Jameelah describes her journaling and meditation process. [16:38] - Sometimes Jameelah’s journal entries do not make sense and sometimes they are eloquent. When you have a lot on your mind, just getting it out is the most important thing to clear your mind. [17:50] - Through meditating, Jameelah saw her future self and journaled about her experience.  [18:44] - Jameelah shares her journal entry to demonstrate that it is not always coherent. It is a reflection of how she feels in the moment of writing and necessary to clear her head. [19:19] - Throughout future episodes, Jameelah plans to share journal entries. [19:58] - Our future self should be the highest version of ourselves. Our decisions sometimes chip away at us but it is our job to make sure that the person we are meant to be arrives. [20:49] - Jameelah is confident that God is calling her to be completely transparent so others, including you, feel like you are not alone and can work through life together. Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Davis on Instagram

Piggybacking off of last week’s episode on Emotional Intelligence, today I’m diving into a new topic: Emotional Stamina. While speaking with our last guest, Megan de la Concha, I discovered that there is a difference between Emotional Intelligence and Emotional Stamina and I thought today would be a good day to let it all hang out and freestyle an episode about that.   Remember that at the My Divine Life Podcast we empower ourselves to divinely design every aspect of our lives the way God purposed them to be. And sometimes, when things are rough, we need to remember this and begin developing our Emotional Stamina to just keep ongoing.    Show Notes: [0:52] - This was a very difficult week for Jameelah and she is exhausted.  [1:59] - After last week’s episode with Megan de la Concha, this episode is a piggyback on her topic of Emotional Intelligence. [2:56] - Emotional Stamina is having the wherewithal to bounce back and be resilient through day to day life. [4:03] - The way that Jameelah is able to pick herself back up is due to her strong emotional stamina. Even prior to losing her daughter, but when Ryen passed, she had to put herself back together. [4:49] - Jameelah compares our unique selves to mosaics. We are beautiful broken pieces that can be put back together to be even more beautiful. [6:07] - This week, Jameelah learned some information that is life-changing. Although it is hard for her to deal with, she is still recording this episode to keep going. [7:03] - In order to build your Emotional Stamina, you have to seek to learn the lesson in what is happening immediately. You can give yourself time to cry, but you have to learn the lesson. [8:19] - Always hold on to the truth of the matter. Don’t jump into the rabbit hole and entertain the what-ifs. [9:10] - Another tip for Jameelah is to be honest. You have to be honest about how you feel. Don’t try to force yourself into feeling the way you think you should. [10:08] - It is okay if your feelings and emotions change quickly. It can happen, but you need to acknowledge the emotion and be honest about it. [10:47] - Something important in building Emotional Stamina is journaling, meditation, and prayer. [11:21] - While journaling, Jameelah wrote her thoughts and wrote messages to the people she felt have violated her and her trust. [12:08] - Rather than cussing out the person she is writing to, Jameelah tries to keep her vibration high and talk to the spirit of the people who wronged her. [13:27] - Through these practices of speaking your mind and being honest about it, you are working on forgiveness from your highest self. [14:16] - The last step in this Emotional Stamina growth, is to see a therapist. In order to fully grow in this area, a therapist will help tremendously. [15:18] - Jameelah knows a lot of truth but she admits that sometimes it is hard to follow through with what she teaches. [16:04] - A best friend to talk to is great, but Jameelah still recommends a therapist.   Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Davis on Instagram

Throughout this last year, we have all dealt with various emotions and have all likely managed them differently. Through your ups and downs, are you the type of person to suppress how you feel? I, myself, have tended to be a people-pleaser in the past, which can cause us to mask how we are truly feeling. But what is your truth? Our guest today shares her absolutely amazing story and how she has built up her Emotional Intelligence. Her revolutionary method is so simple and easy to start implementing right now to get us all on the path towards good mental well being.   Today’s guest is THE Megan De La Concha! Megan is a women’s empowerment and confidence coach. She serves women in all communities by empowering their lives with unstoppable confidence, unshakable resilience, and transformation through faith. Megan is the founder and CEO of Megan De La Concha, LLC. She is the host of the international podcast “Pep Talks with Megan De La Concha” and has dedicated her life to guiding women in breaking free of toxic cycles and into healing for a fully empowered and unstoppable life. Megan also offers one-on-one coaching, group coaching, and private masterclasses.   Her story is immensely powerful and she is the perfect guest for the My Divine Life Podcast. Because here at the My Divine Life Podcast, we empower ourselves with enough courage to divinely design every aspect of our lives the way God purposed it to be. And through her journey, that is exactly what Megan is doing.   Show Notes: [4:10] - Welcome to the podcast, Megan! Megan begins sharing her story and journey. [4:56] - Megan admits she had a pretty normal childhood and was not the rebellious type. [5:42] - When she was in her twenties, she became very insecure and felt that something wasn’t right. She became needy and was not trustworthy. [6:38] - At the age of 22, Megan found herself in a relationship that she thought was a dream come true, but it wound up being incredibly abusive. [7:27] - At 29, she was able to get away from this toxic relationship with her son. She realized she had completely lost herself and her voice. [8:40] - Megan’s relationship with a narcissist made her feel like she couldn’t even trust or believe herself. [10:08] - While in the thick of it, Megan had no idea what kind of relationship she was in. She admits that she was high all the time because that was the only way she knew how to cope with the abuse. [11:11] - Megan admits that she didn’t think anyone would believe her if she told them because her abusive partner was very believable and convincing that everything was fine. She worked hard to hide the problem from others and then worked even harder to believe her own made-up stories as well. [12:16] - Megan moved in with her parents and started therapy and working from home. [13:04] - After deciding that she would not give in and be bitter forever, Megan enrolled in college to get her Master’s degree and wound up getting three degrees. [13:42] - Due to Covid-19, Megan decided to leave her job in healthcare to work from home as an entrepreneur. [16:14] - Through therapy and looking back now, Megan realized that her insecurity and anxiety came from her upbringing. Her father had debilitating anxiety without knowing what it was. [18:40] - Megan began to feel like she wasn’t good enough because of the way her father dealt with his anxiety and this affected her in a big way in her early twenties. [19:37] - Megan put her identity into her relationships with men which made her a very vulnerable person for an abusive relationship. [21:16] - Even after leaving her abusive relationship, Megan put herself into another relationship that she still put her identity into fully. [25:13] - Emotional Intelligence is a skill that you build and practice. It is not something you are born with. It is something you have to take action with every single day. [26:21] - Megan was on medication for two years while she worked on learning other strategies to help manage her anxiety. Through that time, she learned other ways to help and is no longer taking medication. [27:16] - Emotional Intelligence has been the biggest game-changer for Megan. In a nutshell, Emotional Intelligence is the awareness that emotions can drive and impact behavior and actions. [29:02] - Jameelah and Megan discuss medication and its place for some people on their mental wellness journey. Megan had a plan with her doctor. [30:58] - Medication, in the beginning, allowed Megan to feel normal and take the time to learn how to regulate her emotions. [32:19] - Through taking medication, Megan was finally able to speak to her husband and was able to discover her triggers. She was then able to recognize the shift she makes when she’s triggered. [34:47] - Emotional Intelligence is necessary for managing emotions and it is crucial to your mental well being. It also helps you build boundaries. [35:49] - Emotional Intelligence also allows you to recognize your values and trust your intuition. [36:39] - The key to communication is Emotional Intelligence. You need to be able to name your emotions and communicate what you are feeling. And communication is key to a strong relationship. [38:57] - When you are aware of emotions and able to communicate your feelings, Emotional Intelligence also allows you to project positive emotions into a negative space. [39:47] - Emotional Intelligence also boosts resilience which is really important at the moment as we still cope with the effects of Covid-19 and other recent roadblocks. [41:12] - This is all about telling the truth. It is important to tell the truth to yourself and others. Communicate the truth and be clear about it. [44:07] - If we all took 100% accountability with speaking truth, the world would be a much better place. But we are all sucked into pleasing people. [45:22] - Megan describes an emotional regulation strategy with an example on reframing your mind and addressing the problem. [47:32] - The RAD method is something that Megan has developed for herself and her clients. This is an acceptance-based coping method which Megan describes with examples. [48:52] - Megan does not like to label emotions as either good or bad. Every emotion is necessary and deserves to be felt. [49:51] - In the RAD method, R stands for Recognize. This is the step in which you recognize your shifts, triggers, and understand the emotion you are experiencing. [50:30] - A stands for Acknowledge, Accept, and Assess. This is the powerhouse of the strategy. This allows you to explore the emotion. Megan gives examples and gives an actionable visual step to take in order to acknowledge, accept, and assess. [52:33] - D stands for Dismantle. When you dismantle, this is when you are able to make the choice of your emotion and reaction. What is the root of the problem? [53:37] - While dealing with a stressor and not naming the emotion and accepting it, external factors can cause extreme reactions even though they are not the root cause of the emotion. [54:12] - During the Dismantle step, this is where you decide how long the emotion gets to live. You are entitled to feel the way you feel. How long do you want to feel this way before moving on?  [56:00] - When you are able to implement this emotional regulation strategy, you are building up your Emotional Intelligence. [57:02] - It is okay to be angry for a while. Sometimes it feels good to be mad. You have every right to feel angry. But you shouldn’t react to other people in a negative way. [59:39] - Jameelah is working hard to make sure her kids are already building their Emotional Intelligence. In generations prior to now, we have not always been taught this. [61:10] - It is okay to take a minute to acknowledge your feelings, because suppressing emotions will cause more anxiety. Just by bringing awareness to your feelings, it already shortens the life of the emotion. [64:47] - Jameelah asks Megan to “state her CASE,” where Megan shares her own outline to Jameelah’s CASE method. Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Davis on Instagram Megan De La Concha Website PeP. Talks with Megan De La Concha Podcast Megan De La Concha on Instagram

Party People, welcome to Season 2 of the My Divine Life Podcast! If you are new here, you need to know that here at My Divine Life, we empower ourselves with enough courage to divinely design every aspect of our lives the way God purposed it to be.   The last episode of Season 1 was all about saying goodbye to 2020. It was a rough year, no doubt, but without mess, we won’t get to the point of positive change. And I think we can all agree that positive change is needed and hopefully on its way. But now with the first episode of Season 2, we’re discussing a somber topic - grief and loss. As mentioned in previous episodes, I lost my daughter, Ryen as an infant and January is sometimes a very difficult time of year for me as the anniversary of her passing. But over the years, I have learned a lot of lessons from experiencing loss and it is important to me that they be shared.    So, listen on today for the seven lessons I learned from loss. This episode is a reminder that if you are experiencing grief, you are not alone, but it is also a guide for those who are supporting someone in grief. No matter what, give yourselves grace and keep these seven lessons in mind. Show Notes: [1:10] - Welcome back! Last episode was all about saying goodbye to 2020 and while it was a rough year, Jameelah views the times we are in as a time of change and reckoning. [2:34] - Without mess, you won’t get to the point of positive change. [2:49] - Jameelah references and highly recommends a book called You Can Heal Your Life by Louise Hay. She shares an analogy that she keeps in her mind during times of change. [4:26] - Jameelah initially had planned on taking the entire month of January off as it is the anniversary of the death of her daughter, Ryen. [5:34] - Instead of taking the month off, today’s episode is all about the lessons Jameelah has learned over time in her healing journey. [6:00] - Lesson 1 is that grief comes in waves. It won’t go away. Some years are better than others. [6:57] - There is a certain level of growth that God wanted Jameelah to achieve and her daughter has played an intricate part in that without being present. [7:47] - Grief is not meant to “get over.” You have to develop skills to manage and deal with grief because it will always be there in some way. [8:43] - Lesson 2 is that you have to deal with grief. You can’t run from it. Jameelah received a lot of bad advice from well-meaning people who had not been in her shoes. [10:01] - For those who are with someone who is experiencing grief, you have to sit there in it with them. Trying to take their mind off of it is not helpful but you can try to do things that will bring them joy. [11:18] - Even for those who have experienced miscarriages or stillbirths, even though you did not experience a life with them, does not mean that they did not exist.  [11:51] - Through grief, many people tend to try to make people feel comfortable around them when they themselves feel very uncomfortable. [12:24] - When people ask how many kids she has, Jameelah includes Ryen in her count. She doesn’t shy away from talking about her daughter because she won’t disrespect her as if she didn’t exist. [13:28] - Jameelah and her family continue to celebrate her daughter’s birthday and remember her on the anniversary of her death. This is lesson 3: to celebrate their life and existence. [15:01] - When life doesn't go as planned, it can send you to a really bad place. Jameelah does not attach herself to plans anymore to protect herself from grief. [16:11] - If you feel like you need to cry and mourn and that is a part of your process, then you need to do that. You don’t have to grieve in anyone else’s way.  [17:21] - Lesson 4 is that money does not make things easier or fixes anything when it comes to grief and loss. [19:15] - When Ryen passed, she received a lot of sympathy even from people who did not seem to like her. But sympathy fades over time. [21:17] - Lesson 5 is that people are doing the best that they can to help. They don’t know it all and we can’t expect them to know how to deal with your situation. They will make mistakes but they mean well. [22:27] - Jameelah recalls how shortly after her Ryen’s death, she told a childhood friend who did not listen to her news and asked her how the baby was. Jameelah removed that person from her life for many years. [25:53] - For those who are a support system for someone who is grieving, you just need to make sure that you are there. You are not there to fix problems. [26:35] - Lesson 6 is not to rush for the cause. Jameelah shares how she started a non-profit that she doesn’t regret, but she rushed to helping others. She was wrapped up into helping others and ignoring herself which caused marital problems and more depression. [28:38] - You don’t have to be a voice for others or wear your grief as a badge. Give yourself time and grace. [30:07] - The last lesson Jameelah offers is for the couples experiencing loss. Marriage is already hard and throwing in losing a child means the odds are stacked against you. [30:50] - Because they knew the statistics of failed marriages after the loss of a child, Jameelah and her husband clung to each other and did everything together. [31:26] - Over time, Jameelah realized that since grief comes in waves, those waves weren’t hitting her and her husband at the same times. There were things they needed to learn on their own. [32:18] - Be okay with going on your grief journey alone with your support system near you. Everyone is going through different things at different times and not everyone will have the capacity to go through it with you every step of the way.   Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Davis on Instagram

It is already that time, Party People. I am wrapping up season 1 of the My Divine Life Podcast and it has been such an amazing journey. For this episode, I’m going down the list of all the things I am leaving behind in 2020. There’s a lot that I am moving forward without weighing me down and instead of setting a new year’s resolution, I’m simply ditching the baggage.   It has been a tough year for us all and for some it has been absolutely devastating. It is my hope and in my prayers that 2021 is a better year and we are on the track to normalcy. So take a listen to what I’m leaving behind and make a list of what you don’t want to bring with you into 2021.   Show Notes: [1:17] - It is Jameelah’s prayer that we have all learned something this year through all of the things we’ve struggled through. [2:21] - One thing that Jameelah is leaving behind in 2020 is non-reciprocal relationships. She is feeling very “done” with one sided relationships. [3:32] - Another thing she is leaving in 2020 is the word “bougie.” We need to normalize luxury and feeling good about our own success and material earnings. [4:58] - She is also leaving behind the phrase “I am better than you.” Jameelah has flipped the phrase to mean that she is better, but she’s better than she was yesterday, last month, last year, etc. [5:36] - People pleasing and client pleasing is something else Jameelah isn’t going to obsess over next year. [6:53] - We need to stop apologizing for charging what we’re worth and instead charge more than we’re worth and rise to occasion to meet it. [7:14] - Another thing we are leaving behind in 2020 are people who shame us for wanting more. [9:27] - Jameelah wants to use what she has learned this year to mentor others and move forward in reaching for better. [10:05] - Diets are also off the list for Jameelah in 2021. She’s leaving body image issues in 2020. You should only make a change if you want it for yourself. [11:42] - We have been conditioned to believe the negative things about ourselves and develop poor body image and we tend to ignore those who are praising us. [12:54] - We need to move forward with the understanding that it is an audience of one. It is just you and God and no one else matters. [13:48] - A lot of people are going through a hard time. But it will pass. [14:27] - Take the time to dwell on the lessons from 2020 instead of the tragedies or try to find the lesson within the tragedy. [15:36] - Doing better in 2021 is not a new year’s resolution. [16:48] - 2021 may not look normal, but Jameelah’s hope is that normalcy is on its way.   Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Davis on Instagram  

We’re talking about it all today, Party People. The Mind. The Body. The Soul. At the My Divine Life Podcast, we empower ourselves with enough courage to divinely design every aspect of our lives the way God purposed it to be. With designing every aspect comes healing and there might not be just one thing you can do to heal. I am on a long journey of healing and understanding myself and the conversation I have with today’s guest is so meaningful.   My guest today is LeNaya Smith Crawford. LeNaya is a licensed marriage and family therapist and holistic wellness expert. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Spelman College and her Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy with a specialization in trauma therapy. In addition to her degrees, she is a registered play therapist, couples therapist, certified yoga, sound, and meditation guide, media contributor, and teacher. As the Holistic MFT, LeNaya specializes in bridging holistic wellness practices with traditional psychotherapy on people’s paths to healing and purpose. Through the blending of the mind, body, and soul, she helps people protect their peace, cultivate joy, improve relationships, affirm and love themselves.   Show Notes: [2:57] - Jameelah and LeNaya met as students at Spelman College in 2009. [3:38] - Fast forward to today, LeNaya owns her own practice called Kaleidoscope Family Therapy. [4:17] - LeNaya’s journey to being The Holistic MFT began at Spelman College as a Psychology major. She originally thought she would be a child psychologist. [4:45] - During this time in Covid, she has found her purpose in helping women and couples with self love, joy, and purpose for healing. [5:14] - Through LeNaya’s healing journey she has discovered that there is not the “one thing” that will heal us. People are multifaceted beings and therefore our healing must be multifaceted as well. [6:36] - You don’t have to choose one thing to help you on your journey. LeNaya blends the mind, body, and soul to help people protect their peace, cultivate joy, improve relationships, affirm and love themselves. [7:10] - For the mind, LeNaya suggests therapy and affirmations. She is a big believer in speaking into the world. [7:38] - For the body, any type of movement is important. LeNaya loves yoga for movement. But LeNaya also describes how play is important even as adults. [7:59] - And for the soul, or spirit, LeNaya recommends meditation, sound healing, and essential oils. [8:51] - LeNaya is the daughter of two pastors and identifies as a Christian. [10:39] - Jameelah and LeNaya discuss the taboo topic of healing methods among Christians.  [11:46] - LeNaya says that we have limited God by putting him in a box where we only access him through the Bible and through church, but he is in everything.  [12:29] - If it is good for you, heals you, and brings you closer to God, how can that be against Christianity? [14:30] - It is really about loving and that includes loving ourselves. [15:52] - Because of some of the healing practices LeNaya encourages is considered witchcraft, she and Jameelah discuss following your heart and your gut and do what is right for you. [16:41] - This could mean that you educate others or you set boundaries and continue on your spiritual journey.  [17:13] - If you identify as a Christian, LeNaya also encourages you to find the scripture that aligns with meditation and other healing practices. [18:23] - Typically, our closer circle of family and friends need boundaries when you are on this journey. Is it more important to hold up a false version of yourself or to follow your purpose? [21:13] - Dealing with any problem with your beliefs and feelings, give yourself permission to ask questions and seek the answers yourself. [22:57] - If God is limitless, how can he be identified? [23:50] - During this process, we all have a lot of unlearning to do. This is something that happens daily. LeNaya illustrates this with an example from her own life. [25:31] - You may find that you have more support from others than you assume you do. [27:02] - When couples come to marriage counseling, the biggest issues LeNaya works with are communication and boundaries. Some couples don’t see eye to eye when it comes to spiritual journeys. [28:12] - LeNaya admits that her husband is not into the same things she is in but he is very supportive. She illustrates this supportive mindset. [30:02] - Altars can be different for different people. It is not a one-size-fits-all. LeNaya has affirmation cards, crystals, and sage.  [31:13] - Jameelah has photos of her family and ancestors, incense, and chakra candles on her altar. [32:37] - In Jameelah’s design business, she even sees clients have her design spiritual spaces for them. [34:13] - Kaleidoscope Therapy is LeNaya’s practice in Atlanta, but is all virtual. [35:17] - Through The Holistic MFT, you can find LeNaya’s set of affirmation cards called Affirmation is Power: Black Woman You Are Enough. LeNaya describes what they are and even reads her favorite card. [36:37] - Be patient in your journey. Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Davis on Instagram Kaleidoscope Therapy The Holistic MFT Web Page LeNaya Smith Crawford on Instagram The Holistic MFT on Twitter   Affirmation is Power: Black Woman You Are Enough Affirmation Card Set    

Weight and body image are always a hot topic. It seems like we are always dieting and worrying about our weight and feeling guilt when we make a seemingly “bad” food choice. Here at the My Divine Life Podcast, we empower ourselves with enough courage to divinely design every aspect of our lives the way God purposed them to be. And that, Party People, includes our health. That’s why I invited Evelyn LeVasseur to the show today and our conversation will leave you feeling empowered instead of discouraged when it comes to your health and nutrition. The best part is that Evelyn wants you to stop dieting. Yes! Stop it!   Evelyn is the owner of Evelyn Levasseur Fitness, a company that focuses on helping busy, overwhelmed moms reach their body goals without dieting or deprivation. Evelyn knows that moms can be especially hard on themselves and expect perfection in our homes, jobs, marriages, and of course, our bodies. She wants every woman to know she can want to change her body and love it at the same time. Most importantly, Evelyn knows that moms want what is best for their children and having negative feelings about ourselves can lead our children to have negative feelings about themselves, too. So Evelyn is sure to approach all things from the angle of knowing that our actions shape our children and the legacies of health we will leave them. Evelyn is a certified group and personal trainer, a hormonal fat loss coach, and has a specialization in behavior change. She also has a BA in Psychology and Masters in Education.   I can’t wait for you to hear all about her story and her method on changing your mindset around health.   Show Notes: [3:23] - Evelyn’s journey started really early as she was very athletic as a child and adolescent. [3:56] - When Evelyn went to college, she lost her identity a little bit after putting on weight because if she wasn’t fit, she didn’t know who she was. She shares her first experience with a diet and how she kept going back and forth. [5:15] - After Evelyn had her first daughter, she could not get the weight back off and hired someone to help her. She loved it so much that she became a certified trainer and coach. [5:49] - She was still dieting however and knows now that she still hadn’t changed her mindset. [6:18] - Evelyn shares her painful story about her mom being diagnosed with dementia and realized that she shouldn’t be wasting her valuable time with her family with dieting. [7:29] - The experience with her mom propelled her forward into changing her mindset. She didn’t want to leave a legacy of obsessing over dieting for her daughters and instead wanted one of health and family values. [9:41] - Jameelah shares how she connected with Evelyn’s stories on their identity based on their body. [10:37] - Jameelah also watched her grandparents deal with dementia and how her mother was a caregiver for them. [12:12] - When you’re obsessing over your body weight and have negative feelings about yourself, you are not present for your family. [13:01] - Even if we are not speaking the words out loud, we are still teaching our children a lesson. The way we love ourselves teaches our kids how to love themselves. [14:29] - What is it that you are trying to feel? If you can attach your goal to an emotion, you are more likely to be successful. [16:51] - When Evelyn works with a client, a mom in particular, she starts with her mindset. After that, she goes into the 5 Pillars of Health. [17:29] - The first pillar is your sleep. You should be getting 7-9 hours uninterrupted and consistent sleep. This isn’t always possible, so your job is to bring your body to a sense of rest through naps, journaling, or meditation. [18:15] - The next pillar is stress. Especially in 2020, stress is here to stay. But we can change how we respond to stress. [18:34] - The third pillar is water intake. Evelyn clears up some misconceptions on water intake and gives some guidelines on how much is right for you. [19:27] - A balanced diet is the fourth pillar. Evelyn never tells her clients to cut foods out. Deprivation is not motivation. Evelyn’s method is to add things in, starting with water or fiber. [20:18] - The fifth pillar is exercise and this looks different for everyone. [22:08] - Your body will tell you what you need but for some reason we ignore it. [24:07] - What is important in your life everyday? For Evelyn that is her relationship with her husband and children and that she is purposeful in her actions. What she noticed is that not one of those things has to do with her body’s appearance. [25:17] - We focus on other people’s character but we reduce ourselves to what we can be for the outside world. Jameelah and Evelyn discuss why they think this is. [26:54] - Not only do we perpetuate this issue within ourselves, we perpetuate this with our expectations of other women and the cycle continues on. [28:11] - Even though there is always going to be someone out there doing worse than you, that should not diminish your feelings in the moment. [31:27] - If you are focused on intuition, you are always going to go with your gut. If you don’t think going vegan is right for you, for example, then don’t. You will still focus on how you feel throughout the day as you eat and you can still make good choices. [33:25] - When all five pillars of health are in sync and being worked on simultaneously, your health will improve. [34:48] - Dieting for so long makes you feel guilty and shameful around food in general.  [36:09] - If you are eating and you are stressed about eating, you are not in a healthy mindset. Have the food that you want and move on.  [37:31] - Think back to the time where you felt your best, even if it has nothing to do with food and weight. Try to figure out what it was about that time that made you feel fulfilled. [38:31] - Feeling good sets the stage for you to do what you want to do. [39:12] - Losing weight through a diet is fine, but when you are done with the diet, you may find yourself going back to old habits. How did you get there and what can you do to stay healthy? [41:05] - Evelyn has a self-paced program launching January 1st called Mama Ditch the Diet. She also has a group coaching program coming up and will be releasing a Mommy and Me T-shirt line.  [43:23] - After the interview, Jameelah talked to Evelyn about working with a nutritionist. This sparked a conversation about allergy testing. [44:20] - IGE and IGG allergies are different. Jameelah shares the difference that she learned from Evelyn, including symptoms. Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Davis on Instagram Evelyn LeVasseur on Facebook Evelyn LeVasseur Fitness on Instagram EvelynFit.com

It all starts with a strong relationship. Whether you are talking about the parent-child relationship or the educator-child relationship, it is so important to have a connection with the children in your care. In some areas, we’ve lost our way. And we need to get back on track to help develop our kids’ values, education, and strengthen relationships.   That’s why I invited my dear friend, Whitney Johnson, to chat with me for this episode of the My Divine Life Podcast. Whitney is the founder of Real Muvahood LLC, a parenting support company devoted to teaching and supporting black moms through the challenges that they face through motherhood, or “muvahood” as she calls it. Her work centers around helping women build strong relationships that support them and recognizing their purpose, developing their own identity, and creating harmony between work and home life.   In addition to being a rock star mom and your biggest cheerleader, Whitney has also been known as the “preschool whisperer” after her many years in early childhood development. The insight she gives us today is unmatched. I took notes! And you need to as well. Let’s go!   Show Notes: [2:21] - Before founding her company, Real Muvahood, Whitney was known as the “preschool whisperer” on social media and noticed that all moms had the same things in common. They wanted to be good moms but lacked the time and energy and needed support. [4:20] - Whitney shares how she started this journey in childcare. She discovered she was really great with kids. [5:05] - Once Whitney had her son, she had to make a lot of changes. She knew how to take care of others’ kids, but she was scared to be a mom herself. She was scared to ask for help. [7:57] - When Whitney noticed that the kids who were behaving wonderfully for her were acting out with their parents, it clicked for her that she needed to help the moms create a safe and structured environment for their kids. [9:40] - Whitney’s Muvahood method allows women to discover themselves and show up to be their full selves for their children. This also helped their kids continue their good behavior at home. [11:15] - Jameelah shares that her son is struggling in school because his teacher doesn’t understand his gifts. Whitney also shares a story about her own son as well. [13:23] - Whitney states that there should be more black teachers to fully understand the culture and partner with parents. [14:37] - Teachers have the knowledge but the challenge is to make sure that each kid is getting what they need from school. [15:34] - Jameelah knows that if her son were in an all-black school, he would be the star student. [16:04] - As a preschool teacher, Whitney has worked with all kinds of kids. It is not about the race and upbringing of the child, but the way the teacher sets up their environment that supports each child fully. [16:29] - Class size can also be a serious issue with controlling student behavior. [17:41] - As parents, we always want to put our children in the best place we can. [18:38] - Whitney shares how her method is catered towards moms. As she shares in today’s episode, the breakdown of how she supports moms is generalized as she doesn’t know everyone’s personal details. [19:53] - Whitney’s method helps you uncover what you need from yourself, what’s missing, and how you can get it to feel comfortable in your role as a caregiver. [20:21] - There are five steps that go with each letter of MUVAH. [20:41] - M stands for mindset. Whitney gives an example of what this means. [22:08] - U stands for uncover. This is when you discover what it is you and your child need. [23:02] - V is for validation which gives your child the validation they need to support what you are working on together. This is where you model for your children. [23:53] - A stands for activate. You built everything in your home and modeled for them. Now you activate this new skill at school or with your child’s caregiver. [24:52] - H is for help and this is when you reach out to the child’s caregiver to partner together and communicate with each other to support the child. [26:19] - Children only know so much so we want to give them grace. But we don’t want to let that grace get out of hand to the point that they continue to learn boundaries. [27:20] - When it comes to boundaries, you have to make sure they’re enforceable. [27:57] - If you have to discipline your child, you need to make sure it is age appropriate. [28:36] - Whitney then says to look at the entire situation. Look at what happened and find out why it happened. The discipline needs to relate to the incident for kids to make the connection. [29:52] - The next step is that the child understands what happened, why it was wrong, what the discipline is, and what they should be doing instead. Make sure you are on the same page. [31:59] - When children aren’t making the connection between their actions and the consequence, they may start to be fearful of discipline and it could affect their confidence. [33:15] - People should not be applauded for things they are supposed to do, even children. [34:03] - Jameelah applies Whitney’s age-appropriate point to other relationships. You don’t want to treat an adult like a child. [35:31] - Whiteney’s Muvah method can be applied to any relationship and she admits that through learning it, she has learned to manage her adult relationships as well. [37:01] - Sometimes we get frustrated with teachers. But we have to remember the school system and the parameters that teachers have to work within and have grace going into any situation.  [39:15] - Parents and teachers need to have a connection to help children thrive. [40:22] - It is important for teachers, parents, and caregivers to create experiences for children. [41:49] - Diversity needs to be normalized in the classroom. Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Davis on Instagram Whitney Johnson on Twitter The Muvahood Circle on Facebook The Muvah May I Podcast

“I am fixed in my result, but I am fluid in my process.” This quote by my dear friend Maura Chanz perfectly sums up today’s episode. Party People, you do not want to miss hearing about Maura’s amazing journey and how her faith in God’s plan for her has led her to take the necessary risks to pursue her dream. I met Maura about ten years ago at Spelman College. I am so blessed to watch her journey and am so proud of her accomplishments.    Maura began her career as a professional child actress at the age of 13 and knew she wanted to be in the entertainment industry. Throughout her journey, she has earned a B.A. in Comparative Women’s Studies and Writing from Spelman College, she worked as a co-star on Bossip’s WEtv, and served as an apprentice to Mara Brock Akil. Today, Maura can be found in Los Angeles as a creative producer and consultant.   Listen to find out how Maura got her start and how she ended up where she is now. She gives us such inspiration and actionable steps to help you guide yourself on your own beautiful journey.   Show Notes: [1:16] - Maura has gotten to see Jameelah’s journey for the last ten years as Jameelah did her hair for her first pageant as a freshman. [2:06] - Maura was a child actor and when she went to Spelman College she was led to get into producing. [3:09] - When Maura was given the opportunity to lead a project while attending Spelman College, the experience of being in a leadership position lit a fire under her. [4:20] - Attending Spelman was a stepping stone for Maura as she relocated back to Los Angeles when she finished school to pursue a career in entertainment. [4:32] - Maura says, “I am fixed in my result but I’m fluid in my process.” [5:30] - In regards to her career, Maura always knew the entertainment industry would be where she’d end up. But she originally thought she would be more frontward facing. [8:21] - During some uncertainty with how to move forward with a career in entertainment, Maura started leaning in with some skills she already had in graphic design and used this as a content creator. This led to some connections and was able to land an on-camera position. [9:52] - As great as an opportunity as this was and how much she enjoyed the experience, Maura always felt that it wasn’t the right fit yet. [10:15] - At The Essence Festival, she ran into a connection that she felt was a fateful meeting. She was offered the opportunity to become an apprentice. [11:18] - She took the leap and applied for this apprentice position and she got the job to begin immediately after her previous contract ended. [12:43] - She moved to LA and has been there ever since. [13:18] - Maura was let go from this position after some time, but was now stuck in LA. After praying and getting creative with freelance content creation, she got the opportunity to work for Yara Shahidi. [16:08] - At this point, Maura discovered that being front and center wasn’t her plan anymore. She says, “You make a plan and God laughs at it.” [17:26] - Maura admits that the move to LA was a huge risk and a tremendous pay cut. [18:54] - Jameelah says to “stay in the boat” because it is all for a reason. [19:42] - God knew that Maura could handle the leap and presented the opportunities to her. There is a combination of faith and responsibility. [20:41] - It is not always about the money. You have to see the value in the opportunity. [22:16] - At the end of the day, Maura knew she could go get a job if this opportunity didn’t work out. She didn’t have anyone not support her decision because she was so confident and strong in her choice. [24:22] - In regards to dealing with doubt and negativity from others is to be mindful of who you have in your life. Sometimes you will go on a journey alone and that’s okay. [25:36] - If you are drawn to an opportunity and you feel strongly that God is guiding you to something, see the vision through regardless of who is cheering you on. [27:16] - You have to ask for what you need. No one is going to just give it to you. Anyone who offers things you need without asking is a bonus and should not be expected. [28:38] - When Maura needed help and reached out for it, she realized how many people believed in her and wanted to pour love and support back into her. [30:50] - Being proud of someone is a really euphoric moment. Seeing someone you know pursue their dreams and see success is amazing. [32:34] - The journey is not linear. There are many ups and downs. Don’t let the tough moments cause you to give up. [33:47] - Jameelah and Maura discuss the Self Determination Theory in Tribalism. In the Self Determination Theory, you need three things to be content: a skillset to contribute to the world, autonomy to be who you are, and a community to support you. [35:10] - The three pillars of the Self Determination Theory has made Maura’s journey easier because she knows she has the skills and the people to support her. [36:07] - The Self Determination Theory is a great starting point for a life audit. [37:00] - Maura is a big believer in constant growth and change. She does her own progress reports in a journal that audits herself. [38:52] - Maura keeps a daily 5 minute journal. She spends 3 minutes in the morning to start her day in a place of gratitude. In the evening, she spends 2 minutes writing down what her day was like. She always checks in with herself in this way daily. [41:23] - These life audits don’t have to be complicated. Start with what you have and start small.    Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Davis on Instagram Maura Chanz Home Page Maura Chanz on LinkedIn Maura Chanz on Instagram Maura Chanz on Twitter

Let’s make a shift today. We’ve been discussing some really deep topics lately and need a breather! So, Party People, let’s talk about our businesses. I know not everyone listening is currently an entrepreneur, but this episode is still for you. We’re talking about mindset shifts that will completely uplevel your business and no matter what your business is, these mindsets are important.    Don’t forget that at My Divine Life Podcast, we empower ourselves with enough courage to divinely design every aspect of our lives the way God proposed it to be. I want to see you succeed, so let’s get started!   Show Notes: [1:14] - Jameelah reminds us that she has been an entrepreneur since she was a child, starting her business at 12 years old. She started her own business in hair styling and worked in that business till she was 25. [2:03] - When Jameelah shifted her focus from being a hairstylist, she had discovered that she had lost a lot of the key components of owning her own business.  [2:58] - Do not let your lack of education hold you back from pursuing your dream of owning a business. Unless your dream job requires a certification or specific educational background, you will learn more on the job than through debt building degrees. [3:50] - The first mindset shift Jameelah discusses is to not be a “jack of all trades and a master of none.” You have to delegate. [6:11] - If you aren’t delegating and you are doing tasks that someone else can do, you are not spending your valuable time on the important parts of your business. [7:12] - Clients know that if you are spread too thin, you will not produce the quality of service they expect you to produce. [8:29] - You will never earn the amount of money you are capable of earning without a team. It sounds crazy because you are paying someone to do work for you, but the cost is worth it for the growth of your business. [10:17] - If it is something you are not talented or knowledgeable in, you will spend more time and money through trial and error than just hiring someone who knows what they’re doing.  [10:58] - The second mindset shift to uplevel your business is not being afraid to lose people. You have to be okay that people might leave and you are the captain of this ship. [12:21] - Regardless of what is happening, you are responsible for your business. Be slow to hire and quick to fire and always show up. [13:25] - In Jameelah’s experience, when she hires personal friends, it doesn’t always work out for the business or the friendship. [13:51] - The third mindset that Jameelah offers is “you have to be the face of your business.” You don’t want to hide behind your computer. [16:06] - One of the biggest factors in a client’s decision to hire you is how easily they can relate and connect with you. [16:20] - Number 4 is: You are not for everybody and that is okay. This is in reference to your niche. [18:22] - Once Jameelah and her business partner discovered their target audience as primarily black women in a specific age and affluence range, they grew their business. [20:30] - The fifth mindset shift from Jameelah is “don’t be raggety; get some rest.” You have to recharge! [21:21] - Upleveling her business was possible when Jameelah was getting adequate rest. Working more doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get more accomplished. [22:56] - It is a non-negotiable act of self care to get adequate rest. [24:48] - Jameelah’s business growth has been aligned with these mindset shifts and would love to see you implement these strategies to see success in your own business.   Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Davis on Instagram

How many times did Postmates deliver food to you this week? How many times did you look out and see that it is dark outside to realize that you hadn’t spent time with your kids? How many times have you seen the perfect family photo on Instagram and instantly thought that you aren’t doing enough?   Party People, I’m there with you. You feel like that because you are a parent. As moms, especially, we tend to compare ourselves to others and we don’t give ourselves enough grace. I’m here to give you the comfort that you are not alone. I’ve got a list of “mom confessions” to make today in hopes that you can relate. I hope that in the end, you realize that your kids love you and that perfect family photo you wish you had, isn’t real life.    Remember, you deserve to be celebrated. Here at the My Divine Life Podcast, we are empowering ourselves with enough courage to divinely design every aspect of our lives the way God intended. And we can learn from this thing called Mom Guilt.   Show Notes: [1:20] - Today we are talking about Mom Guilt. Jameelah knows she isn’t alone. As women, we don’t give ourselves enough grace. [2:01] - In transparency, Jameelah confesses that she works too much, doesn’t spend enough time with her kids, and doesn’t prioritize her time with her kids. [2:51] - It is so easy to get wrapped up and distracted by all the tasks in a single day. [3:19] - Jameelah confesses that she has a nanny. It isn’t a bad thing, but makes this statement because she wants you to know that it is okay to need that extra help. [4:10] - Jameelah also confesses that she gets food delivered to her house multiple times a week some weeks to ease her responsibilities. And sometimes technology can become a babysitter. [5:10] - Another confession Jameelah makes is that she doesn’t feel like she is overly affectionate with her children. [5:45] - Give yourself grace because as a mom and a wife, things are not going to be perfect. [6:55] - After the death of her daughter, her parenting changed after giving birth to her son. She was worried that it would be a repeated experience but had to make the decision to not live in fear and be overbearing on her children. [8:32] - There is a line between trusting God in taking care of your child and becoming too neglectful. [9:33] - When we try to judge our own parenting, we tend to not use our own children as an indicator of how we are doing. We tend to use external sources to compare ourselves to. [10:42] - Jameelah encourages you to start looking at your own household instead of outside your household to gauge how you are doing as a parent. [11:46] - You do not need to be your child’s only source of comfort. [13:05] - It is important to allow your child to have their own voice and listen to their opinions. Our job is to make sure our children grow up to contribute to the community. [14:21] - Relay your mom confessions for Jameelah on Instagram.   Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Davis on Instagram

Hey Party People! Are you ready for a party? Well, today’s episode isn’t a particularly upbeat and exciting topic, but I’m here to talk about the hard stuff first. At this point, you know we all need therapy. Now we have to take those steps in setting up boundaries in our relationships.   Yeah, that’s easier said than done. In fact, it is something I am still working on myself. As a recovering people-pleaser, it isn’t always easy to say no to those who I love and want to please. But you and I both know that you have to look out for yourself. Pleasing those around us isn’t always in our best interest.   So stick around and listen for some things you can do to set up boundaries in your relationships, both permanent and temporary. Learn from my mistakes and my experiences so you can divine the life you love the way God purposed it to be. Show Notes: [1:09] - Jameelah likes the mental health approach of a therapist she follows on Instagram named Silvy Khoucasian. She says that we don’t grieve enough about the boundaries that we have to put in place. [1:51] - Even though we know that it is necessary to set boundaries within our relationships, it isn’t always easy. It sounds easier than it really is. [2:47] - During this pandemic, Jameelah learned a lot about her relationships with the people she loves. [3:38] - The beautiful thing about strong relationships is that if you have to put boundaries in place, it shouldn’t hurt the relationship long term. [4:29] - You know the difference between a hard fall out and a relationship that needs some space. [5:04] - Jameelah admits that she is addicted to pleasing people and describes it as a codependency when people enjoy her need to please them. [5:40] - An author Jameelah recommends is Melody Beattie, specifically the books Codependent No More and a journal called The Language of Letting Go. [6:43] - How many times have you said, “This is the last time,” when you’re asked to do something for someone? Or when you don’t know how to say no and you went against your better judgement to please someone. [8:01] - Similar to a drug addiction, being addicted to pleasing other people can drain you emotionally. [9:37] - If you are doing things to better yourself for your own reasons and not other peoples’ reasons, you are on the right track. [10:46] - Jameelah has made a promise to herself that she will not make excuses for other adults. She is responsible for herself and her children. Making excuses for others only enables them. [12:25] - Generally, Jameelah sees the absolute best in everyone which sometimes gets her into sticky situations. That’s why she has had to learn how to set boundaries in her relationships. [13:48] - Stop letting other people run your life. You are the one in charge. [15:41] - Jameelah shares her experience with her relationship with her brother who has been in prison for the last three years. [17:13] - There is no handbook for families who are dealing with a family member in prison, just like there is no handbook for dealing with the loss of a child. Jameelah’s life experiences have greatly impacted her relationships with others. [18:50] - The year 2020 has shown us how much could actually happen in such a short amount of time.  [20:49] - This episode doesn’t have specific actionable steps but has shown Jameelah’s push forward. Keep saying no when you need to even if it is a hard no to say.   Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Davis on Instagram Silvy Khoucasian Web Page Silvy Khoucasian on Instagram   Codependent No More: How to Stop Controlling Others and Start Caring for Yourself by Melody Beattie The Language of Letting Go: Daily Meditations for Codependents by Melody Beattie  

So, we know about the CASE method. We’ve got the Consultation, Anchors, Shell, and Enhancements down pat. Now what? Well, you need a therapist. Yeah, you heard me right. You need a therapist.   Last month was tough, but I made it through it and I want to share with you how my healing journey has been going. In today’s episode, we’re going to discuss some things that I have experienced in my life and how therapy has helped me. Therapy has not only helped me deal with grief, but it still helps me in my marriage and my business.    Party People, I want the best for you. Healing is not a destination. It is a journey. And through that journey, we empower ourselves with enough courage to divinely design every aspect of our lives the way God intended. When you accept the need to ask for help, you can truly divine the life that you love. Show Notes: [1:01] - Jameelah has a bone to pick with everything that is going on in her life and in the world right now. She speaks freely about her struggles to find healing. [2:11] - God recently showed Jameelah how much healing she still needs by sending her to a birthday party of a little girl that is friends with her sons. [3:55] - Jameelah is in a slump due to her daughter’s birthday passing and the news of Breonna Taylor all around the same time. She experiences a deep depression around this time and around the time of her daughter’s death anniversary. [4:28] - Jameelah and her husband used to get into arguments during these times, but in reality they were both grieving and didn’t know it. [5:51] - For about 80% of the year, Jameelah has gone to therapy once per week. [6:44] - Knowing the dates and times of year that Jameelah and her husband experience these bouts of grief and depression helps them know ahead of time that it is coming and they become very mindful of how they treat each other and themselves. [7:41] - On Instagram, Jameelah recently recorded her thoughts and feelings regarding the recent news about Breonna Taylor. [8:31] - Check on your friends that are grieving or are experiencing loss. You may want to step back and not bring it up, but it is a lonely place and letting them know that you remember this day is important. [10:49] - If you have experienced loss and you don’t know what the acceptable way to deal with it is, Jameelah recommends just doing what makes you feel good and don’t apologize for it. [11:58] - Jameelah is considering doing a virtual support group for people who have dealt with the loss of a child or pregnancy. [12:43] - Do you need a therapist? Jameelah says you definitely do. [14:00] - There are so many things that could knock you down that you need the tools to overcome. And over time, those things that knock you down, won’t knock you down anymore. [14:36] - Even though Jameelah has rough days, she has a lot of joy in her life. [15:30] - Overcoming her ego and understanding that it's okay to ask for help has been the biggest factor in Jameelah’s mental health. [16:43] - Getting her spiritual life together and seeking help when she needed it is something that helped Jameelah through her “funk.” [17:30] - Hearing other people’s stories doesn’t give you an excuse to stay stagnant because they have experienced more. It gives you a connection and should give you the encouragement to keep going. [19:00] - Jameelah also recommends listening to podcasts and listening to audiobooks to keep you learning and healing. [21:02] - You have to be willing to accept help to get to the next level. [21:55] - Healing is not a destination, it's a journey. Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Davis on Instagram

Party People, you know what time it is! It is time to talk about the fourth and final step of the CASE Method: The Enhancements. Now, before we get started, please make sure you go back and listen to the previous episodes of this podcast before starting this one. We’ve been rolling out the CASE Method since episode 1 and it has been a soul-snatching experience. You do not want to miss out on the first three steps, which will definitely become apparent during this episode. So meet us back here when you’re done and you’re ready for the final step!   Here at the My Divine Life Podcast, we empower ourselves with enough courage to divinely design every aspect of our lives the way God intended. You have the power of choice and through that power of choice, you can truly divine the life that you love. Show Notes: [1:01] - Jameelah gives a quick overview of the CASE method steps: Consultation, Anchors, Shell, and today’s focus, the Enhancements. [1:26] - In design, the enhancements are the things everyone is excited about. These are the beautiful things you see in magazines and on Pinterest. In essence, they are the finishing touches. [2:26] - If you skip the previous steps, the enhancements don’t bring you fulfilment. In the end they become just another source of stress. [3:57] - Jameelah recommends that when you are given these seemingly amazing opportunities, you need to take the time to do a life audit to make sure you have your anchors and shell solid first. [4:43] - What is the point of the enhancements when your shell is weak and you aren’t surrounded by people who are happy for you? It is depressing when the only person that is happy for you is yourself. [5:04] - You deserve a circle of people who lift you up and want to see you succeed. [6:07] - Build your success and your wealth, but Jameelah wants you to enjoy it. There are a lot of wealthy people in the world that are unhappy. The enhancements have to come after the first three steps of this method. [6:46] - When Jameelah says to be grounded financially, she means that you need to have financial literacy and discipline at whatever stage of wealth you are in.  [8:27] - Retrain your mind into seeing the lesson to be learned in the midst of turmoil. This is an essential life skill. [9:16] - Enhancements are not meant to be essential and anchors. Having a nice car or a nice house cannot be the focal point of your life. They only enhance your foundations and should not be your priority. [10:12] - This episode is short because enhancements aren’t the focus. Jameelah clarifies that enhancements aren’t bad. She loves them! But they are things you handle down the line. [10:47] - In design, can the room stand on its own without the enhancements? Can it work by itself without distractions? [11:38] - We want people to see us in full view. But Instagram, for example, is life in portrait mode with the imperfections blurred. Jameelah wants your life to be in a full wide angle view.  [12:10] - Be a wide angle shot in a sea of close-ups.   Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Davis on Instagram

Welcome back, Party People! Let’s continue our deep dive into the CASE Method today with step three: The Shell. Please be sure to listen to the first few episodes of this podcast if you have not done so already. Those episodes outline the first steps in the CASE method and you need to be familiar with those before you learn more about The Shell.   The Shell is all about surrounding yourself with people that support you and build you up. Remember The Anchors from last week’s episode? If these people in your shell do not reflect your anchors, they have got to go! This is a difficult but necessary step to take to better your life and propel yourself forward.   We empower ourselves with enough courage to divinely design every aspect of our lives the way God intended. You have the power of choice and through that power of choice, you can truly divine the life that you love. Show Notes: [1:00] - We design the shell around the Anchors. The people in our shell need to complement and match your anchors. [1:55] - It is great to be the one to set examples, but who is setting examples for you and strengthening your anchors? [2:17] - We need to be very strategic in selecting people for our shell that won’t be a one-sided relationship and that really support you. [2:33] - In the design world, the shell elements like wallpaper, all need to complement the sofa or whatever anchors are in the room. [3:04] - If God is the center of your life, then the people around you need to reflect that. [4:50] - Sometimes people who are in your life that aren’t good for your shell really just have some growing to do themselves. But sometimes, it is important to remove people out of your life. [5:44] - Once Jameelah had the courage to cut some people off or put up some real deal boundaries, she started to see a major shift. [6:28] - Jameelah always aspires for more that strengthen her anchors and if the people around her bring her down or don’t want the same things for her, it becomes counterproductive. [7:27] - You don’t need people who constantly take in your life. You need to have the courage to put these boundaries up. [8:03] - Just because you’ve had someone in your life for a long time, does not mean that they need to stay. In design, just because you’ve had a piece of furniture since you were college, doesn’t mean it needs to stay. [9:16] - Let go of the leechers and the users. You need people who are around for the good things and the bad. [10:00] - If you have certain people in your life for specific aspects of your life, they are associates, not friends. [12:06] - Jameelah prayed for good friends and she has seen that some strong women have come into her life and friendships are developing. [12:40] - In design, what is behind the walls is just as important as what is in front of it. If something on the inside of the walls goes wrong, the shell will help keep it together. [13:30] - If a pipe bursts in your life, who is there to help you piece things back together? [14:50] - Just like in sports where teams are drafting the perfect team, you have to select the right people to create your dream team that will add value to your life. [15:20] - Why is it that the most giving people are surrounded by leeches? This happens so often. The most giving people are sometimes the biggest problem. Why do you have this overwhelming need to be needed? [17:09] - Jameelah grew up having people that always looked up to her and praised her on a pedestal she didn’t ask to be on. She learned a big lesson when she discovered that she wasn’t the best. [18:31] - It is important to always be outside of your comfort zone and change is uncomfortable. [19:02] - It is also important to make sure you are surrounding yourself with people who can teach you something and to show you what is possible. This makes you strive for more. [20:10] - Jameelah shares a story about how she took a class and realized that she had a lot of changes to make in her business. She had thought she was doing great, but the class taught her that she wasn’t. [21:55] - This class inspired her and motivated her to adjust and make changes. It made her see what was possible. [24:08] - It is always shocking to Jameelah that people pass up amazing opportunities to grow and better themselves. [25:03] - Being in rooms with people who could teach her something, really propelled Jameelah forward. But she couldn’t play it safe to be able to see more. [26:30] - How are you going to build anything if you are placing a block down and someone is taking them off the bottom? [27:02] - This is a difficult step because you don’t want to lose people, but sometimes these comfortable people are not adding value to your life and you are not adding value to theirs. Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Davis on Instagram

Party People, it is time to dive into the next step in the CASE method: The Anchors. Knowing what your anchors are will bring you so much clarity and help you design the rest of your life around them. I am grounded in my anchors every day. Are you? We empower ourselves with enough courage to divinely design every aspect of our lives the God intended. You have the power of choice and through that power of choice, you can truly divine the life that you love. Together, let’s figure out what your anchors are and how focusing on them can bring you clarity, confidence, and help you design the other aspects of your life. Show Notes: [1:10] - This podcast is a place of inspiration and a safe place for us to commune and talk openly without judgement. [2:01] - Consider the tips and advice as an opportunity to make a change in a structured way with a plan. [3:50] - In the last episode we went over the C in CASE method which stands for Consultation which is setting yourself up for success by asking yourself those tough questions to help you design a roadmap. [4:28] - This episode is about the A in CASE method which stands for Anchors. In Jameelah’s design business, the anchors are the things that ground the space. They are the large items that catch your eye; not the details. [5:10] - In life, the anchors are the big things that ground us that we design the rest of our life around. [5:25] - Jameelah’s anchors are the four F’s - her faith, family, finances, and fitness. [5:50] - Jameelah finds that if she is not grounded in one of her anchors, she struggles in the other areas as well. [7:00] - Sometimes when we feel overwhelmed and overworked, anchors can get overlooked. [7:50] - Here’s where we get our journal or paper and jot down our anchors. What grounds you? What anchors are weak and on shaky ground? [9:07] - We tend to prioritize things that are not priorities and that’s not being grounded in an anchor. [10:16] - When we focus on our anchors, the details of our lives become more simple and the enhancements become less distracting. [11:51] - You need not be ashamed of what you determine needs to be an anchor in your life. [12:12] - Jameelah recommends that one anchor should be your faith. This could mean many different things for different people, but the anchor in spirituality gives you the focus to gain clarity. [13:56] - God is on this journey with you, but you need to be proactive and seek clarity. [14:46] - Once you understand that no one and nothing stands between you and your relationship with God, the floodgates will open. [15:50] - People are hindered by their lack of planning. [16:27] - Jameelah schedules her plans and calendar around her anchors first and foremost before she plans for the extras. This is key to being productive. [18:29] - The CASE method is being outlined in the first few episodes and next week’s episode will be about The Shell. Jameelah has a lot to say about The Shell so come back next week. Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Davis on Instagram

Hey Party People! Now that you know what the CASE method stands for, let’s start breaking it down piece by piece. This episode is all about the Consultation. In my design business, the Consultation is all about taking an inventory of what we want a space to look like, what we already have for that space, and what we want for that space.    That’s life, too! We have to take inventory of what is right in our lives, what is wrong in our lives, and where we want our lives to take us. This Consultation step in the CASE method is the most important step as it leads us to creating that roadmap to designing our lives to be what God purposed them to be.   Make sure you’ve got a way to take notes, Party People, because we’re diving into the Consultation and asking ourselves those really tough questions. Show Notes: [0:40] - Hey Party People! The Party People are the community members that find ways to celebrate and know that life is too short to be stuffy. [1:52] - If you’d like to join the Party People community, head over to Instagram! [2:41] - Jameelah references the first episode of the My Divine Life Podcast and the CASE method she outlines.  [3:01] - The first step in the CASE method is the Consultation. Jameelah says this is the most important step because it’s going to create the roadmap for you. [3:35] - When you have a plan and mission statement for your life, you are better prepared to make life decisions instead of life just happening to you. [4:19] - Grab some paper and pencil here and start jotting down your thoughts with Jameelah. [5:37] - The first thing we want to do is identify the things that are going right. Start by jotting down five things that are going well for you right now. Jameelah gives some great examples. [6:37] - Next, identify the things that are going wrong that need immediate attention. Do not diminish your feelings on what is going wrong just because you think you should be feeling grateful. [7:40] - Jameelah uses the late Kate Spade as an example of feelings being diminished.  [8:42] - Next, give five possible solutions to those things that are going wrong. This is a braindump, so nothing is too unreasonable for these possible solutions. [9:30] - Fear is an opportunity to lean towards it and take a risk. Without risk there is no reward. [10:08] - The beginning of this Consultation step is all about taking inventory of your life. This is the same process of Jameelah’s design process during which she takes inventory of what clients already own and love. [10:45] - Jameelah’s first challenge for you is write down three people who when they call, your face turns up. This is an indication that they probably need to leave, even if just temporarily. Shed the dead weight. [12:08] - In a dream world, if you had your life’s desires at your feet and everything was guaranteed, what would your life look like? Jot down 3-5 sentences about what this looks like, including who is with you. [14:35] - Over time, Jameelah’s dream list has actually shortened because through her work to achieve them, she’s become very grateful for what she already has. This has also helped her to achieve an inner peace. [15:46] - For every line item that you’ve written down, write down the reason you want those things. Is this something you really want or something you feel you should want? What made you want those things? [16:33] - It is extremely important to be honest with yourself and retrain your mind to stop doing what others say you should do. [17:57] - When we demean ourselves, we are trying to beat people to the punch. [19:34] - Understand that taking care of you benefits everyone else, too. [20:18] - There is no reward for running yourself into the ground in order to make other people happy. [21:52] - Tough love is what made Jameelah face herself and ask herself those hard questions. [23:15] - We make time and set aside money for the things that we want. You need to give yourself the time for yourself and not give yourself any opportunity to make excuses. [25:23] - If you are listening to this podcast, you are looking to make a change. And change is never comfortable. [25:59] - Be sure to keep these notes for the next episode of the My Divine Life Podcast. The next step in the CASE method is Anchors.   Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Libsyn Listen on Podnews Jameelah Davis on Instagram

How are you designing the life that you love? Better yet, how do you divine the life that God purposed for you? In this podcast, divine is an adjective, a verb, and an integral part of who I am. I’m Jameelah Divine Davis - wife, mother of five, and a serial entrepreneur. Starting my own business at the age of 12, I’ve learned how to design a business. And through the ups and downs in my life, I’ve discovered how to use those same design strategies to divine the life that I love.  Welcome to the first episode of My Divine Life. Using a strategy I’ve applied to my entrepreneurial endeavors, I’ll show you how this method can work in every aspect of your life. This is a safe place where you can be yourself, even if you don’t truly know who you are. This is a journey of designing your life to be what God intended it to be; a journey through my life’s stories and the stories of our guests.  Show Notes: [0:58] - Jameelah begins by introducing herself as a wife and mother to 5 boys, including a set of twins. [1:37] - For the last 16 years, Jameelah has been a serial entrepreneur. At 12 years old she started her first business braiding hair. [2:08] - She started doing hair and became a cosmetologist and makeup artist. [2:20] - After working as a cosmetologist, she shifted her focus to being an event planner and designer. Her experience working with brides as a cosmetologist strengthened her skills in this new field. [3:04] - Jameelah shares her story on how she became an interior designer, which started out as joking with a colleague. [3:57] - As an entrepreneur, if there is a new opportunity, it is worth taking the risk even if you’re scared. That is what Jameelah did when she jumped into interior design. [4:40] - The interior design business was started in September 2019 which was incredible timing since event planning was not a reliable business when Covid-19 hit a few months later. [5:20] - Divine means “of or from God,” and Jameelah means “beautiful.” My Divine Life means “my life from God,” or “the life that God wants for me.” [6:12] - Divine is now a verb. We are here to divine the life that we love that God purposed for you. [7:01] - Listen to the voice in your head. Move without shame. Advocate for yourself. This is how you divine the life that you love. [7:30] - This is a safe place where you can be yourself, even if you don’t truly know who you are. [7:50] - After losing her daughter to SIDS, Jameelah was lost. [8:42] - She is here to show you how to pull yourself up. Grief doesn’t go anywhere. You just develop tools to work through it. [10:27] - Jameelah’s design process is something that she takes her clients through that she not only applies to her interior design and event planning businesses, but for her own life as well. [10:51] - The CASE design process stands for Consultation, Anchors, Shell, and Enhancements. [11:14] - A lot of times, we just want to go straight to the enhancements. Jameelah gives examples of how skipping the first steps is detrimental. [12:57] - We will spend a lot of time, money, and energy into getting these enhancements but when we skip steps, it’s not what we expect. We do that with life as well. [14:37] - On social media, you show off all of your enhancements, but behind the scenes you might be crumbling. [15:20] - Jameelah is going to dedicate an episode to each step of this process in the future, but breaks it down briefly.  [16:08] - You can use the CASE method in business, fitness, marriage, everything. As long as you are not skipping steps, you will reach a level of fulfillment. [16:58] - The Consultation step is key in knowing where you want to go. This creates a roadmap for you and you have to ask the right questions. [19:30] - Anchors are what grounds you. In interior design, anchors are what ground the space and catch your eye. In life, what keeps you grounded? [21:39] - The Shell is what surrounds you. You want to base the shell on your anchors. The people who you look up to need to be reflective of the anchors in your life. [23:08] - Jameelah explains that enhancements are great, but you can’t have the enhancements unless the room can shine on its own first. This is applicable to life as well. [24:47] - At the end of the day, the enhancements aren’t what us valuable. Links and Resources: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Android Jameelah Davis on Instagram