Planet Noun Podcast

This intro is quick and sweet… Episode 40 features Miguel Asia, someone I met right before Rona became a national emergency…but we’re part of the same team at work—at a new job I started just as the pandemic was starting to rage in the United States. This guy wears a lot of hats: Writer…music artist…to video producer…. But let me stop typing so you can meet him yourself! We talk inspiration, motivation, and his sense of self awareness that enables him to speak confidently about his strengths--yet with vulnerability about his fears. You don't want to miss this chat--on Planet Noun

Welcome to Planet Noun where it’s all about the People, Places, Things and Ideas that teach us, prompt us to make a difference and do more with what life presents! Talk about doing the most with what life presents! Rashad McCrorey, our guest for Episode 39, is doing just that. McCrorey joins Planet Noun for another COVID catch-up. In this series, I’ve been chatting with past guests on Planet Noun—to find out how they’ve been faring during this year. McCrorey is new to Planet Noun, and we connected via Instagram a few months ago. McCrorey is a travel company owner whose journey took them to Ghana—temporarily—but then COVID was declared a pandemic, and a national emergency in the United States (where he was born), so Rashad McCrorey decided stick around in Ghana after COVID-19 lockdowns started up. That’s where he joins us! Well, let’s get to it…Meet Rashad McCrorey… on Planet Noun!

This episode is another installment in the COVID catch-up series…I’ve been chatting with past guests on Planet Noun—to find out how they’ve been faring during this rough year. This time, I’m catching up with someone I met a couple of years ago while working as a reporter. We met at a street festival in Washington, D.C., and I wanted to interview him for a radio story I was going to file with the radio station. That’s where it started, and we’ve been chatting online about him coming on the show. THEN...the pandemic hit, so that stalled everything for a while. But, here he is! Rodd Quinn is his name. It was totally intrigued because during the interview for work, I found out he was a traveling artist. Look, by now, you know that anyone who has the courage to follow their dreams fully -- fascinates me! Well, let’s get to it with Rodd Quinn. He joined Planet Noun via Zoom from Laredo Texas. He shares his story of how life presented with him with a passion for art--and what he's chosen to do with it!

Welcome to Planet Noun where it’s all about the People, Places, Things and Ideas that teach us, prompt us to make a difference and do more with what life presents. This episode is another installment in the COVID catch-up series…I’ve been chatting with past guests on Planet Noun—to find out how they’ve been faring during this rough year…known as 2020. This time, I’m catching up with another guest from last year…Jay Herriott from The 25th Project—an organization that started by helping the homeless at least once a month…on the 25th. The inspiration stems from the last time Thanksgiving’s roving date matched up with the static date of Christmas…the year both were on the the 25th of their respective months.

Welcome! This episode is another installment in our COVID catch-up series…I’ve been chatting with past guests on Planet Noun—to find out how they’ve been faring during this rough year…known as 2020. This time, it’s a first time guest to the show…but THIS dude…I haven’t seen in SOOOOOOO long. We overlapped at college for a bit where we sang in the same choir…then poof! No sightings for many years—until Facebook came along. Still haven’t seen him in person since the 90s. His name? Brian Watts… author and host of Knowledge is the Key on Envision Radio. He’s also an author and an educator. We talk about a range of things including how his love of travel led him to Kuwait, how getting pulled over by the police so many times factored into that decision and experiencing the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in another country. We also talk about his book—which delves into how parents can help their children to help themselves. Let’s get to it with Brian Watts…on Planet Noun!

This episode is another installment in the COVID catch-up series…where I’m chatting with past guests on Planet Noun—to find out how they’ve been faring during this rough year…known as 2020. The last time Dr. LaKeischa McMillan was on, we were talking about family health history about two years ago…it was an episode ahead of Thanksgiving. Back then, the world had plenty of rough patches, but this time around, it's smeared with the foul layer of a deadly pandemic. There’s a lot to talk about this time around from her thoughts on how long she originally thought this national emergency would last, homeschooling, getting used to the "new normal" this year has hoisted upon us and more! So let’s get to it with Dr. LaKeischa McMillan! Read more at https://planetnoun.com

Today, we’re catching up with another past guest. This time, Stacia Wright. She was on Planet Noun about two years ago…a little more than that, actually…we met up at a local Panera Bread, sat outside in the sun and talked about her life as a business owner. Welp, thanks to the COVID-19 global pandemic, we caught up via Zoom this time…so that meant no selfies after the interview—but plenty of conversation and laughs…despite this tough time we’re all navigating together. We talk about a bunch… From how the pandemic has affected her business and family life…to Zoom school and learning to go with the ebbs and flows of the new educational reality. Even though this year has been a train wreck for the WORLD in so many ways--woven into everything are blessings and joys.

Sometimes you just need to talk it out with friends…to catch up, to listen, to process and share. Welcome to this conversation with a longtime friend. A fantastic friend with a beautiful mind—one who is a constant wonder, one who I admire, one who I am constantly learning from and inspired by. Welcome to Planet Noun, where it’s all about the people, places, things and ideas that teach us, prompt us to make a difference and do more with what life presents. Joining me is a repeat guest, my friend Pamela “RareEpiphany” Best. Last time she was on the show, we caught up with each other in Philadelphia and talked about her erotic poetry book titled "Soul Kisses." So this time around, Rare and I talk about a range of thing--starting with this COVID-19 pandemic that’s turned us all topsy turvy and how it’s affected her. We also get into how the never-ending soul and structural pandemic of racism in America hit close to home this year. Let’s get to it…on Planet Noun.

You want dreams? Well, dreams cost. If you don’t remember Debbie Allen uttering those words on the television show Fame, we can’t be friends. Kidding! But seriously, what I’ve learned from interviewing folks on the 30 previous episodes of Planet Noun, is that there’s a cost to realizing goals and aspirations. Even when it seems like luck, trust and believe—there’s a lot of work that goes into being ready for that “lucky” break and being ready when opportunity calls. Welcome to Planet Noun where it’s all about the People, Places, Things and Ideas that teach us, prompt us to make a difference and do more with what life presents. My guest today is Keosha Turner—a woman who has a busy life, but she manages to write fantasy books in her spare time, like a page turner called The Disappearance of Magda Harden. In this conversation, learn more about Keosha’s path to writing, and her writing plans. Get a link to the book at PlanetNoun.com.

Welcome to Planet Noun where it’s all about the People, Places, Things and Ideas that teach us, prompt us to make a difference and do more with what life presents. Meet today’s guest, Romus Simpson. He always has a funny tale of everyday life to share, and has been a vivid storyteller since I’ve known him. I don’t even remember the year we first crossed paths, but it was through my cousins at their parent’s house—many years before they both passed on. Years later, we ended up in a long conversation after my aunt’s memorial and became pals. This prolific poet reminded me that I asked him to come on the show for National Poetry Month earlier this year. A short time later, the world CHANGED with COVID-19 and worldwide stay at home orders and lockdowns. We still don’t know what it’ll look like when things get back to “normal.” But finally Romus and I got to chat virtually — right in time to bid adieu to this year’s commemoration of the poetic form. Romus Simpson…right here on Planet Noun.

There’s a quote that says — move boldly in the direction of your dreams. I love that one, but sometimes we all need….wait…let me speak for myself….I need a nudge to get me moving in the direction of those dreams, aspirations, and goals written in all those notebooks around the house. Is this you? Do you know someone like this? “What I do is I accelerate your success. That’s the funny thing about coaching. When you work with me, you’re fundamentally getting a force multiplier,” Dr. David Arrington said during this episode. David is COO of Arrington Coaching and author of the book “Promotable: How to Demonstrate Your Value, Highlight Your Potential & Land Your Next Promotion.” Take a listen to his story, and learn the path to writing "Promotable." We talk about a bunch of things…from the book, to the role his family plays in the business, lessons learned along his life and business journeys, and lessons he hopes his children glean from his experiences. Well, let’s get to it with Dr. David Arrington of Arrington Coaching — right here on Planet Noun. Read more at https://planetnoun.com

A virus has thrown the world upside down… My sister Lea joined me just to verbally sort through some of our thoughts about this COVID-19 pandemic. I’m still processing a heck of a lot that 2020 has dropped on the world’s doorstep. We're in this together...

Today's guest on Planet Noun—Jay Herriott of The 25th Project, an organization dedicated to helping the homeless on the 25th of each month—and beyond. We met through my job, a former co-worker recommended him to me as a source for story ideas. I’ve interviewed him for work stories a couple of times, and wanted to talk a bit more with him, so I called him up for Planet Noun. But HOW did his organization get started? That’s pretty simple. It started with one meal from one restaurant—and a bit of sharing. A note about this episode: We caught up in a restaurant in Maryland, so there’s some background ambience. Take a listen to Planet Noun—and Jay Herriott, founder of The 25th Project. Check out the 25th Project’s website and Facebook page, and links to some other items Jay mentioned during this episode at https://PlanetNoun.com. Thanks for listening!

So…who ARE you? I can’t help but think of Alice in Wonderland—the Disney movie…and the caterpillar with the hookah…asking Alice this question while blowing smokey designs in her face. No smoke here…but the question remains the same. Who ARE YOU? What are you here to do? What’s your gift? No, I’m not talking about something you got for a birthday or holiday—if you celebrate those. I’m talking about something that’s special about YOU…something that you were BORN with—that no one else can do just like you. I’m not talking about a skill like playing an music instrument. I’m not talking about talents either…but gifts. But what’s the difference, you ask? That’s what today’s guest on Planet Noun is discussing in this episode. Fredrick Bussey also wrote a book about it. So let’s get right into it…he’s a dad…a speaker and entrepreneur…founder of marketing and branding consultancy IconStatus…his work? Helping brands and individuals to convey their stories with more power. More from Fredrick Bussey author of the book “Breaking Orbit: Rip Out of the Regular by Unearthing the Power Within" on Planet Noun.

So my sister and I met up for Essence Fest during the summer…it was the event’s 25th anniversary. And we had a BALL! We mainly went there this year for the music and the marketplace that showcased all of these black-owned and produced products. While meandering through one aisle, a gentleman approached us and started talking to us about our skin. We were both satisfied with our current products but wanted to learn more about this brand. Then he introduced us to the product line creator—who is today’s guest on Planet Noun. We tried a moisturizer on our hands and were impressed with how our skin felt: Supple-soft, and no heavy scent. Another plus for us. Now sis and I are loving Three Notes Skincare! But how did this business get started? Simple…It started with an issue that needed a solution. Take a listen to Tanzania Crew—founder of Three Notes Skincare—on Planet Noun https://planetnoun.com

Welcome to Planet Noun where it’s all about the People, Places, Things and Ideas that teach us, prompt us to make a difference and do more with what life presents. Life can abound with various challenges, but it’s up to us to take that stuff and make it into something better. There are some folks in this universe who, despite challenges, imagine how they’d like life to look. Then they plan and move boldly in the direction of those dreams. My next guest is one of those beautiful humans. Deia Davis-Williams and I go way back to college. We’ve been connected on social media, but and saw each other in person for the first time in YEARS in New Orleans as Essence Fest was wrapping up. It was the first time at Essence Fest for either of us. Shoutout to Essence for such an awesome, affirming event! Deia is a publicist…and founder of ExquisteM Public Relations. She’s also in law school and is very specific about her goals and the impact she wants to have in the African-American community. Take a listen to this driven sister’s story…On Planet Noun. Read more at https://planetnoun.com

It's always exciting when a new episode drops…this one is no exception. It’s the second of two collaboration episodes with Liliana and Tamara of Barely Bougie Mamas—a podcast that was released during the summer. If you haven’t heard last week’s episode, take a listen after you get through with this one. So Barely Bougie Mamas is a podcast featuring Liliana and Tamara—two moms who grew up in poverty—but have crafted lives for themselves and their kids that are totally different from their own upbringings…and all of the funnies and concerns that stem from those differences. My sister Lea and I joined them at Liliana’s home in Southern California for some ki-ki-ing and questions. Last week, we talked about some of their experiences growing up vs. how their kids are growing up. And this week, Liliana, Tamara, My sister Lea and I talk about something Le-Le and I know…being single, childless aunties….And the role all aunties play in the family fabric. Whether they’re linked by bloodlines or play aunties that are for real-real with their care, concern and involvement. Topics and timecodes: 03:13—Dealing with annoying comments like “You’re not married? You don’t have kids? And you’re HAPPY?” (Answer: Hell to the yes! Contented, single and childless women do exist, they’re real people) 08:55—Aunties to O.P.K.-Other People’s Kids 10:19—The Sister-in-Law Co-Parent (Tamara says don’t skip your visitations) & the Auntie Posse 14:15—Unmarried Aunties, do you realize your importance (and not just for babysitting)? 17:30—Liliana’s experience as a single, childless auntie 21:28—The fun auntie 24:10—Deadbeat godmamas 29:32—An auntie’s listening ear 35:05—Forging the relationship with a potential auntie in your life

I’m always excited when a new episode comes out…this one is no exception. It’s one of two back-to-back collaboration episodes we’re dropping today and next Thursday. Planet Noun’s first collaboration ever—and it’s with Liliana and Tamara of Barely Bougie Mamas—a podcast that was released during the summer.. A capsule-sized explanation of their show—it’s about two moms who grew up in poverty—but have crafted lives for themselves and their kids that are totally different from their own upbringings…and all of the funnies and concerns that stem from those differences. My sister Lea and I joined them at Liliana’s home in Southern California for some kiki-ing and questions. A little background…Tamara and I met the afternoon this was recorded…But she’s listened to some Planet Noun episodes, and I’ve listened to Barely Bougie Mamas shows. Liliana and I grew up together. My sis and I have known her for years. Matter of fact, we go so far back, I don’t remember WHEN we met. My mom says it was at church when we were wee children who were sat in the class for babies, toddlers and under fivers. We used to sit next to each other and suck our thumbs, mom said. That’s enough intro! There’s cussing in this episode. You’ve been warned…now listen in! 1:32 — How Tamara and Liliana met, then learned they had things in common 20:22—Dealing with bullies 21:03—Snitching then and now 30:09—Street sense 41:55—Whose kids are more bougie? Tear-jerking experiences with their children 51:13—What to expect from Barely Bougie Mamas podcast More on PlanetNoun.com

Sometimes romantic relationships suck. Especially when they run off the rails...whether it be from growing differences between relatants or if someone just up and decides they don’t want you anymore, but they don’t bother to tell you about it. Basically—when someone ghosts you. Today’s guest experienced ghosting...she was the ghostee—if you will. Old boy turned her loose, but didn’t verbally communicate that to her—and wouldn’t communicate with her as she tried to get to the bottom of things. So Lenina Mortimer wrote a book about it—to help someone else along the ghastly breakup recovery path. Take a listen to Lenina Mortimer, author of the book “I Ain’t Thinking About You…The 8 Step Guide to Finally Letting Him Go Using the Breakup Funeral Method.” Let’s get this mourning in motion…On Planet Noun. Read more at https://planetnoun.com

When you know what you do best, sticking to your guns—as artist PJ Morton writes and sings—is how to get your life’s work done. Today’s guest is N’Namdi Olufemi Bryant, a singer-songwriter and host of the podcast “For the Love of A Cappella.” We get into some themes of his latest album during this episode. So N’Namdi and I had been talking about doing a podcast together for MONTHS, but as usual, life takes on its own plans. We were going to have him on before an album release earlier this year, then tech difficulties took over his project. But the idea was still in both of our orbits. So—lookie here—I saw on Instagram that N’Namdi was in Washington, D.C. I said to myself—GIRL…..let’s make this happen! If you don’t ask him if he’ll have time for an interview—it’s an automatic no! I asked if he had an hour to chat. He said yes, and here it is! It all worked out. So we met up at the Mansion on O Street. It’s a tourist destination located just off the bustling Dupont Circle, and has a fascinating trove of history tied to it. It’s also where N’Namdi sometimes performs. There are so many themes to this podcast, and to preserve the integrity of the conversation flow, I tried not to do too much lifting and pasting of interview parts. We talk about negative self-talk, and what N’Namdi does to overcome that hurdle. Also—a discussion on imperfection and about the different ways he stretched his vocal range. During our talk, I learned something I didn’t know in the decades since we last saw each other. There was a period in time when N’Namdi was homeless. So let’s get right to the conversation, where we start talking about his podcast “For the Love of A Capella,”and where he got the idea for his program. ========== 07:55-Why it took him more than 10 years to complete one particular song arrangement 11:05—The makings and stories behind his current project “If We Could Only Talk” 21:30—How Kermit the Frog came up in our conversation 26:06—The road to vocal range 31:51—The time we talked about skylines and smog 33:39—Homeless in Huntsville, Ala. and Nashville 49:59—The part about albums, hilarious singing telegram and touching ride-share driver stories ====== Read more at https://planetnoun.com

So…who likes to talk about death? Put your hands up. Yeah, I don’t know many people who love the topic, especially when they’re the subject. But death’s a certainty. You won’t have a thing to worry about after you transition from this life, but your stuff isn’t going with you. What about the things you leave behind? Well, that’s what attorney Suren Adams specializes in—helping folks get their final wishes in order before death ushers them to the exit—stage left. Let’s start with her pathway to helping folks wrangle up their loose ends BEFORE the end. Even if you don’t possess a trove of dollars, jewels, land or vacation homes, Adams recommends that anyone age 18 or over have an estate plan in place. Take a listen to learn more!

What’s in a name? In this case—a LOT. In this episode of Planet Noun, a chat with an up-and-coming…award-winning jazz musician Jazmin Ghent. When she’s not belting smooth tunes from her saxophone, she’s in the classroom teaching music to children in Polk County, Florida. We talk about her pathway to jazz music, the saxophone, and how names and other language used with children can affect the trajectory of their lives. Well, let’s get to it…Jazmin Ghent…winner of the 2019 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Jazz Album—right here on Planet Noun. Planet Noun is all about the People, Places, Things and Ideas that teach us, prompt us to make a difference and do more with what life presents. Get all Jazmin’s social media handles and website links to learn even more about her albums and performance dates at https://PlanetNoun.com.

WARNING: This episode contains cussing. And it’s not all bleeped out. So govern yourselves accordingly, with earbuds and such. The Glow Up. Been hearing a lot about that lately. First of all—what the F is that? Well, intuitively, I know what it is…but I had to consult a reputable source… So…the Urban Dictionary tells me the Glow Up is when you go from wack-looking to gorgeous… another definition is to rise to the top from the bottom of whatever aspirational ladder a person is climbing. The Free Dictionary’s idioms section says something similar—Basically, it’s a fantastic transformation—that’s very real. Who doesn’t want the Glow Up? I mean, who isn’t fascinated by someone’s rise from out of nowhere? Thing is—I’ve learned—it’s hardly EVER from nowhere. The folks you love and adore today—famous folks or maybe other folks—have likely been working their tails off for YEARS in order to get the results that are now visible to lots of people. A lot of more time-established shows and podcasts interview folks AFTER their glow has started, and there’s everything RIGHT with that. But what about the folks who are somewhere in the middle, folks who are not quite at the top or at the bottom, but somewhere in between? Well, today’s guest took time off of his grind to talk to me. His name is Patrick Fenison. He’s one of many people committed to meeting their aspirations. We start our conversation with the time Pat started recognizing his glimmer—when he KNEW he was born to be a performer. 3:45—When Pat knew performing was for him 5:42—Pat ain’t got no sense! His path to becoming a comedian 8:10—I’m going for it! 14:09—Creating a fanbase, then a move upsets hometown momentum 23:43—Everyone’s not going to believe in you; the importance of guarding curating your energy spaces with like-minded people 34:13—A story behind his video “Drop It” 46:30—Where to find Pat on social media More at https://planetnoun.com.

Do you wish your money were more intelligent? Well, that’s what Jason Thomas specializes in—making money work smarter for his clients. Thomas is co-founder and president of The PILL Method, a financial counseling company that uses education and technology to show their clients ways to more astutely use their dollars and cents to move toward their financial goals and debt freedom. “It can begin with simply having a checking and a savings account,” He told Planet Noun. “It does not require you to go get [a] loan, it doesn’t require anything else. What we can basically really show you—how to make your money smarter.” Thomas joined Planet Noun for a conversation from his home in Jamaica, that’s where he and his wife Carmen [http://carmenhopethomas.com] and two sons moved recently from the United States. This episode dives right in with no breaks. The conversation begins with information about his family and partner-run companies and flows from there. 1:03—More about the PILL Method. What it is, how it got started, and how it works. 2:26—Interest rate vs. interest cost. What’s the difference? 28:17—How Thomas got into financial counseling/what led him to become passionate about helping people get out of debt 32:16—Why some folks leave Thomas’s seminars angry 38:05—Thomas conducts free seminars to introduce folks to The PILL Method. So how does he make money? For social media links and more, go to https://planetnoun.com.

Well, any day is a good day to profess affection… so—I admit—I’m in love. With books written by today’s guest! There’s this character named Elouise Norton who has captured my heart! Why? Because she’s so human… It’s like I know her. So I’m stoked that I got to interview her creator during a visit to Los Angeles! Critically acclaimed crime fiction writer Rachel Howzell Hall is the author of several books, including the Lou Norton series, and another title, They All Fall Down, which will be released on April 9. We discuss a range of things from her origins as a writer, how she explores through her characters, the dualities and unexpected realities of her page people (her characters), and more! Take a listen to Rachel Howzell Hall, critically acclaimed author and guest for Planet Noun Episode 15! Read more at https://planetnoun.com. ==== Part 1—00:00-08:10 Where it all started Part 1a—08:16-17:07—How a character, Detective Elouise Norton, was a tutor to Howzell Hall Part 2—17:04-29:02 Characters you don’t expect… dualities and unexpected realities. Part 3—29:05-36:20 Rachel’s journey toward crime fiction Part 4—36:28-42:37 Reconciling characters and subject matter with a churchy upbringing Part 5—42:40-end Most gratifying moments as an author, and maximizing her time as an author who also has a family and a full time job

February is Black History Month in the United States…a time to focus on the contributions and achievements of African Americans not only in the past, but to hear stories of those who are still with us, still writing their stories. George O. Davis is such a person. Part of his work involves helping to expose museum visitors to the stories of others. Part 1: 00:43—From broadcasting and entertainment executive to the California African American Museum ========== Part 2: 22:23—Rundown of the museum’s features and a some current exhibits. By the time this episode drops, a couple of those will be on their last days. Find links with more information on those dates at PlanetNoun.com. ========== Part 3: 24:56—Davis talks about: • The importance of expanding the knowledge of black history among and beyond black folks • Acknowledging the facts of history and reckoning with that information to grow beyond our country’s ills…past and present

Have you ever talked to someone at work and you knew there was something more to their story? That’s what I started finding out after we got to talking and I found out she has a yoga business. It’s also no secret that business owners fascinate me…One day, I’ll have one of my own. After starting this podcast, I asked her to be on the show to talk about the benefits of yoga. It’s a New Year and, no doubt, you might be reviewing resolutions to be fitter, healthier, and/or vowing for better self care this year. What better way to do so than to get your yoga on? I’ve done so sporadically through the years, and one thing, and quickly noticed that I was one of a few faces that looked like mine among the student population. I definitely didn’t notice any black instructors. But now I know one! Only one. Yes, I know there are more out there—but she’s the only one I know. I introduce to you Stephanie Gaines-Bryant—radio news anchor at a local D.C. station. She’s also owner and operator of Radio Yogi Health and Fitness. Part 1 • 01:30 — What Radio Yogi is all about • 02:38—Stephanie’s journey to meditation; then yoga practice and instruction • 16:41—Thoughts about Christians and yoga practice ============ Part 2 21:10—Stephanie’s advice on starting a new habit this new year—whether it’s yoga or something else. ================== Part 3 39:44—In addition to being on the radio and running her yoga business, Stephanie also runs a non-profit—Sisters for Fitness, and talks about the concerns that led her to start the organization. This segues into a discussion about mental illness in the African American and church communities. If Jesus can fix it, why can’t that fixin’ be done via a therapist? ===================== Read more about Stephanie, Radio Yogi Health and Fitness and Sisters 4 Fitness at https://planetnoun.com.

What’s the value of a can of Ensure? Or Spam? Or a pack of Doritos or other snack you can pick up during a Target run or at the corner store? Well, if you’re a member of the Filipino diaspora, everyday items, snacks and other treats can have additional meaning attached to them if they’re shipped to the Philippines from abroad in a Balikbayan Box. It’s a tradition I had no idea of until about a year ago…. And it was then that I realized that—among all the groups of color I grew up around in Los Angeles—there are some I know about more than others. I didn’t know much about the Filipino diaspora, but I’m learning more. This interview was so interesting I wanted to share it again this year! So if you’ve heard this before—welcome back—and stick around… If you’re hearing this for the first time, let’s dig into this holiday repeat of Planet Noun Episode 3—Balikbayan Boxes: Care Packages in Reverse…. With Illinois-based artist, photographer and author Jason Reblando.

Thanksgiving is almost here! That means it’s almost time to throw down on all those bounties that’ll grace our holiday tables this week! Thanksgiving is also Family Health History Day… A time to discuss and learn more…. Diseases or health events that tend to run in your family… Yeah… I know THAT is NOT a sexy discussion to have while passing the lamb, ham, turkey, chicken, greens, potatoes, tomatoes—YOU NAME IT. But if you’re family is gathering for this holiday or any other one—could be an opportune time to consider easing in those not so appetizing discussions about your family health portrait…. Just try to time it when Cousin so-and-so is NOT about to fork a piece of sweet-tater pie in their mouth. My guest today is Doctor LaKeischa McMillan… she hosts the Housecall with Dr. Mac Podcast… In addition to doctoring, she also mothers and wifes (It’s my podcast, I can make up words). The cast is a joint venture with her husband, Wendell. So Dr. Mac joins us with the skinny... or the fat—depending on how you throw down in the kitchen—on having unsexy conversations about family health—during Thanksgiving or any season when family gathers. Read more at https://planetnoun.com

September is Sickle Cell Awareness Month, and our guest for Episode 11 has a compelling story about how she learned about the disease. Elle Cole is a writer and founder of CleverlyChanging.com, a lifestyle blog that focuses on “Empowering the Total Person.” Elle and her husband have two daughters—twins. One of them has sickle cell disease, so the ups and downs of this genetic disorder are well known to them. As an advocate and blogger, Elle hones in on sharing educational information the disease, the trait--which her other daughter has, how both are inherited, and about symptoms and treatments. She also talks about the importance of empowering her daughter to advocate for herself as a patient. Read more at https://planetnoun.com.

Our guest for Episode 10 is a person who does a LOT of the things well. Her name’s Stacia D. Wright, an event and media strategist and owner of B. Reel Media Management, LLC. As I’ve said in previous episodes (see Episode 8) small business owners fascinate me because of the risks they take and lessons they’re open enough to learn in order to keep progressing along the business pathway. Through her business experiences, Stacia has a thing or three to say about knowing your worth, the value of your time and what you bring to any table. If you want to start your own business, her reminder: Working for others has invaluable lessons as well. In addition to running B. Reel Media Management Stacia is a wife and mommy. She’s even made a video to help her daughter remember when to potty, but Stacia wasn’t expecting the song travel around the globe to other parents having a doozy of a time teaching their young-uns how to independently use the toilet. After the video went viral, Stacia appeared on a D.C. area television station and the video was also featured on websites of other media outlets as well. Read more at https://planetnoun.com.

The best pad bags are hidden in plain sight… Cute. Jazzy. Snazzy… with a little bit of flair or not—depends on what floats your boat and makes your heart sing. Because your uterus isn’t singing during your period. It’s weeping blood. In this bonus episode of Planet Noun, Liz and her guest, Lea pick up with their discussion about stuffing the perfect Pad Bag. That’s just another name for a to-go sanitary/feminine supply kit. From there, we also talk about praying the ‘Broids away, and whether we think that works…to how social media can be harnessed to find connection with others grappling with uterine fibroids. https://planetnoun.com

So this time it’s a thing we address on Planet Noun… Or, depending on how bad you’ve got it, it’s a whole bunch of things…. It’s also about a place that all people encounter during life’s dawning days. The human uterus. So it’s the last day of Uterine Fibroid Awareness Month… My sister Lea and I know about these benign tumors very well because they’ve been our fairly constant companions—for some YEARS now. We want to be free of the monsters--that’s what she calls hers-- But we’ve learned to live with them... Mostly in the shadows…mostly quiet about them. But we’re tired and want freedom from the secret. Hello there….My name is Liz… the host of Planet Noun… And I have uterine fibroids that beat me up sometimes. According to a National Institutes of Health fact sheet on Uterine Fibroids: Most American women will get them sometime during life. They say one study showed by age 50…. 70 percent of white women and 80 percent of African-American women were graced with these bastards. My sister and I are part of that number. The fact sheet continues: “In many cases, fibroids are believed not to cause symptoms, and in such cases women may be unaware they have them.” We wish ours were docile. But nah, they're all symptomatic all up in this joint. This is a fragment of our story. Read more at https://planetnoun.com.

Small business owners fascinate me. Why? Because of their courage. Or what I perceive as courage. Who knows, maybe some are faint of heart. But I doubt that. Why? Because when anyone ventures to go against the grain of employee-dom (did I just make up a word?) there’s a risk of failure. Yes, there’s a risk with being an employee, but in my mind, it seems the risk is greater for business owners. If you get fired from your job you can blame your wack boss...your fellow employees who are trying to do you in (whether that’s perceived or real or downright wrong). But who you ‘gon’ blame if your business flops—absent environmental disasters, floods or other things out of your control? Seems that losing a business would be a hit to the spirit...so hard you’d need to duct tape and air pump your poor spirit daily just to get out of bed in the morning. That’s why small biz owners fascinate me. They’re willing to confront that risk every-durn-day. They all fascinate me…. Especially the ones who make products to keep our skin away from the throes of crust-ashiness. Meet Ayanna Alexander of Sixahwe Naturals. https://www.sixahwenaturals.com Learn about the origin of the company name, why they decided to go into business, and an important lesson she learned about maintaining passion for what you love to do. http://planetnoun.com/episode-8-sixahwe-naturals/

What’s your assignment? That’s something you may hear at school or at work, and some other places. Another way to ask this question is—what’s your purpose? Sometimes folks learn it at a young age. If you’re like me, you figured it out while fairly young, but maybe it took (and is still taking) a circuitous path to get there. Our next guest didn’t figure out this particular “assignment” or purpose we discuss until she was good and grown. Meet Pastor Michelle C. Thomas of the Loudoun Freedom Center in Episode 7 of Planet Noun. Learn more about what she’s doing to help preserve African-American history in her community. http://www.loudounfreedomfoundation.com

Life is filled with so much artistry. From word play… To picture play, painter’s creations—whether they be a portrait, landscape, still life.. or walls. To tapestries hung on a rod or fine linens clothing the insides of a room. Food—also art. So is drink. That’s where my next guests come in. I learned about their business…. On my Facebook. Full disclosure—I went to school with them… lost track after graduation—and reconnected via Facebook. Meet the founders of the Skarlet Beverage Company . They’re bringing some spice to the world of upscale virgin drinks. More at http://www.planetnoun.com

There’s nothing like good talks with longtime friends. Those conversations between decades-old pals can sometimes get pretty personal and... adult. So here’s the warning: THIS ISN'T FOR YOUR KIDS. Go-on ahead and put the little ones. Doesn’t matter where. Try else. Or the den. Or the living room. Listen after you drop them off at school or shoo them out of the house. Why? Because we’re talking to an author of an erotic poetry book today. *smile*. If you don’t know, you’re about to find out...about Atlanta-based poet Rare Epiphany. Find links to her book under the podcast tab at planetnoun.com or http://www.lulu.com/spotlight/rareepiphany

Meet two ladies who saw a void in the hair community and decided to fill it—with an app! Yes hons, finding a solid stylist is tops for their clients. SWIVEL BEAUTY aims to take you from looking for a hair stylist to booking one in just a few minutes. Oh, and I also booked an appointment through this app. My hairdo is scheduled for next week. I’ll have to tell you how it goes!

Greetings! Merry post-Christmas, pre-New Year! Here’s a bonus episode of Planet Noun to end the year! It’s an interview I found so interesting and relevant to the holidays, I couldn’t wait! Question: What are some of YOUR favorite holiday traditions? When my siblings and I were younger, my parents would always pack a brown paper lunch sack with natural treats…. an apple…an orange… unshelled walnuts, pecans and almonds. One of my parents even snapped a photo of me dancing around our green shag-carpeted living room holding one of those bags on Christmas Day in 19-something-ty something. That’s an example of a gift given to me…. But what about family traditions surrounding gift-giving to others? What about traditions involving family members who are far away—separated not only by land, but oceans? Well, I learned something new in this interview with Illinois based photographer and artist Jason Reblando. He wrote a piece for CityLab about special boxes that members of the Filipino diaspora send home each year for Christmas. Find more about what Reblando learned about balikbayan boxes in the piece he wrote for City Lab. Get the link at Planet Noun-dot-com.

If cancer were polite, it wouldn't be cancer. It wouldn't be a disease. It wouldn't strike fear and apprehension into the hearts and minds of those who must confront it. For Brandi Garrett, her husband and their entire family, this battle was a family affair. They all embarked on this journey when they received an unwanted diagnosis regarding one of their daughters. Listen to Brandi recount the story of Madison's journey. Go to The Maddy Wagon http://themaddywagon.org to learn more about the organization started in Madison's name.

If you've ever said "I don't need a man," here's an author who agrees with you... With a slight twist. Get the book here: http://carmenhopethomas.com