The QB Zone

Learn how small changes in your daily routine can lead to big improvements in your happiness levels. From the power of gratitude to the impact of social connections, we'll explore evidence-based techniques that you can start using today.Tune in to unlock the keys to a happier, more fulfilling life. Your journey to lasting happiness starts here!

Join me for a powerful and deeply personal exploration of the challenges facing our nation. As an African American man, I share my thoughts on embracing diversity, the importance of constitutional rights, and the impact of current political trends on our community. Whether you're concerned about the future of democracy or simply seeking to understand different perspectives, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in for an honest, heartfelt conversation about what it means to be American in these turbulent times.

In this episode, we briefly dive into the liberating world of self-acceptance. Discover how embracing your flaws can lead to unexpected happiness and personal growth. The episode shares real-life stories, share practical tips, and litely touches on why your so-called imperfections might just be your greatest strengths. Tune in to learn how to turn self-criticism into self-celebration and start having fun with the unique qualities that make you, you!

Ever felt like your family dynamics are more complicated than a soap opera plot? You're not alone! In this latest episode, we're talking bout an often-taboo topic of family estrangement. We'll chat about why it happens, how it feels, and most importantly - how to handle it without losing your mind (or sense of humor). Whether you're currently navigating a family rift or just curious about the topic, this episode will provide some practical advice. Tune in for a judgment-free zone where we briefly explore the messy, real side of family relationships. It's time to break the silence and start the conversation – your sanity might just thank you for it!

Ever feel like you're running on empty? In this episode, we're taking a quick look into the world of self-care and how it can unlock your hidden superpowers! We'll explore why taking time for yourself isn't just a luxury – it's the secret sauce to awakening your inner strength. It's all about empowering you to be your best self, which is one of the things we're all about, here at The QB Zone. Your inner warrior is waiting – let's wake them up together!

Ever felt stuck because you couldn't get that perfect closure you were hoping for? You're not alone! In this episode we dive into the art of moving forward when life leaves you hanging. We'll share why closure isn't always necessary (or even possible!) and share some strategies to help you write your own ending. From reframing past experiences to embracing the unknown, you'll discover practical tips to break free from the "closure trap" and start living on your own terms. This episode is your ticket to personal growth and empowerment. 

Ever had a date go spectacularly wrong? You're not alone! In our latest podcast episode, we dive into the hilarious and cringe-worthy world of dating disasters. From oversharing personal stories to showing up late (or worse, not at all), we explore the myriad ways people accidentally sabotage their romantic rendezvous. Whether you're a seasoned dater or just dipping your toes into the dating pool, this episode has some short examples and dos and don'ts. Tune in for a short and casual chit chat that might just save your next date from turning into a total trainwreck! 

In today's complex world of relationships, the concept of a side piece has gained attention. This unconventional arrangement, often kept under wraps, has sparked curiosity about its potential benefits. This episode delves into the secretive nature of these arrangements and examines how they might affect communication and trust in primary relationships.

 Suffering in silence is a pervasive issue that affects countless individuals grappling with depression, anxiety, and emotional pain. Many people mask their inner turmoil, presenting a facade of normalcy to the world while battling intense psychological distress. This episode explores the challenges of progressing in life while dealing with silent depression. It delves into the complexities of maintaining a brave face, overcoming shame, and rebuilding self-trust.

Giving yourself grace means treating yourself with kindness, understanding, and forgiveness, especially when you don't meet your expectations. It involves acknowledging that you're not perfect, it's okay to make mistakes, and you can learn from them and move on.

At its heart, speaking up is really a conversation regarding boundaries. The uncomfortable feeling that you associate with needing to say something, even if you're afraid to say it. Of all the different kinds of communication, speaking up is probably the most overlooked. That's because while most kinds of communication occur between two or more individuals, speaking up begins with a conversation with oneself.  

Hard work can help people develop character, motivate themselves, overcome hardships and achieve their goals. Many successful individuals have received or given helpful advice regarding hard work, as their achievements are often the result of their work ethic. "Success isn't always about greatness. It's about consistency. Consistent hard work leads to success. Greatness will come." —Dwayne Johnson

This episode briefly touches on the inequalities in education. Educational inequality perpetuates cycles of poverty and social injustice. The true measure of a society's greatness lies in how well it educates and uplifts its most vulnerable members.

Transactional Relationships vs. Traditional Relationships -  which do you prefer? Although there is not a lot of talk about transactional relatinoships, at least not openly, I personally feel that they exist a lot. There would probably be a lot of people who would look down on transactional relatinonship and/or think only negative things about them. But what if i told you that there are actually a lot of benefits to this type of relationship? Take a listen to this episode and see for yourself. 

Not many know the specifics. Those who have utilized this tool or this subject matter, im sure, had a very enjoyable time. Rather that be food, drinks, or scents; it has benefitted people in a lotta ways. Sensual.....Pleasure.....Explore. This episode is about one word.......Aphrodisiacs. Aphrodisiacs are foods and herbs that are thought to get you in the mood for lovemaking or to increase your sex drive. The word comes from the name Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love.

This episode is about what can be the transformative power of giving true love another chance. We share practical tips to rebuild trust, heal from past wounds, and nurture a relationship that surpasses your wildest dreams.  

We all have them. No matter the type of relationship, but especially a romantic one; there have probably been multiple times this subject has been discussed or thought about....they are relationship deal breakers. What are your relationship deal breakers? How important are they to you? Are you willing to compromise, and if so, to what extent? Do you know when you need to make the decision and actually put forth the action to just walk away? With this episode you can be informed, aware, and ready! 

Do you want to create a better work life balance? Are you or have you been overwhelmed with having to put your personal life and relationships on the back burner for your professional goals and achievements? This episode is about recognizing when there needs to be an increase in one's work life balance and practical steps to make it happen. 

This month for Men's Mental Health Awareness month, I've discussed a variety of topics pertaining to men and our mental health. I wanted to conlude this month with an episode that I feel can bring together everything that's been talked about and help us apply it to our lives. This episode will briefly provide a mental health check-in that although the information is provided with my fellow men in mind, it is something that everyone can benefit from. It can help us all check, gauge, and progress our mental health. 

June being Men's Mental Health Awareness Month, I wanted to touch on a diferent kind of topic. One that I can really relate to and find very intriguing. That is church traditions and mental health. Two entities or topics that play a huge role in my life. On this episode, I briefly discuss some of the negative effects church has on mental health. As well as areas of improvement, and ways that they can enrich and contribute to the sustaining of good mental health. 

June is Men's Mental Health Awareness Month and i wanted to do a episode that falls right in line. It is said many times that women are more emotional than men. It is said many times that men hold things in and have trouble expressing themselves. As a man who has had his own journey with mental health, I have learned so much about myself and my fellow man. This episode briefly touches on what emotional regulation is, why it is important, and what can men do to be better at regulating their emotions. 

This episode is a brief peek into intimacy and how we can experience it. What is intimacy? Is this something that is present in your life? How close is what we think intimacy to be, to what it actually is? Feelings of intimacy can help us feel more connected to the people we love. Intimacy is a decision. It's a risk too, because intimacy demands vulnerability and authenticity.

Men have feelings. Men have emotions. They should not always be kept inside. They manuever as if they are superman and/or hyper strong...sometimes they are successful at it....but to what detriment? Men are human. They need to roar. They need a release. They need to be free of their emotions being kept captive inside. It does not decrease their status as a man. This is what this episode is about. 

It is often said that birds of a feather flock together. I'm sure you've also heard the saying, "2 peas in a pod". It is very important to ensure that we are hanging around with the right people. We must ensure that the energy and people that we entertain are conducive to the life we want to live. Many times we dont look at our friends and network this way. Hence, why certain mistakes and issues occur that couldve been prevented. This episode is about having the right energy and people that we interact with, so we can have the life that we want. 

Being self-aware can be very essential to our well-being. There can be a sense of elevation, joy, and focus. The more that we are self-aware, there is more of a sense of power and freedom. When we are aware, we will navigate through life and situations much better. This episode talks about all of that, plus some tips to assist in one becoming more self-aware and the benefits. 

Is it not working for you? Let your peace be nonnegotiable!  If it doesn't enhace your life, leave it alone. Walk away from it. Of course I know this isn't easy. Definitely something that is easier said than done. However, it is possible. In this episode i discuss some tips and ways to walk away from relationships that just aint in your best interest to remain in. Shake yourself loose and set yourself free! 

Can a relationship rebound from cheating? What leads a person to cheat on their relationship? What are some useful ways to possibly repair a relationship after cheating? Do you have any tips outside of the ones mentioned in this episode? Yes, this is the name of one of Toni Braxton's many hit records. It is also something that I briefly discuss in this episode, Love Should've Brought You Home. Enjoy!

Faith is a journey for everyone. We all believe in something. Something that will get us through the rough times and sustain us through the good times. It does not come easy for everyone and the opinions of it are quite diverse. In this episode, I give a brief and transparent take on my awareness and journey with faith. 

Many would say that it is an art or game. Many would say that there are levels to it. Few are excellent at it. Many are not as good as they think. On this episode, I give you an entertaining and intriguing perspective on having your main relationship (main course) and a few side pleasures (side dish) at the same time.

You date multiple people. That could be fun and vastly beneficial, but is the communication what it needs to be? Is everyone on the same page? With something like this, if the communication isn't what it needs to be, it's probably not going to end well for anyone LOL. Check out this week's episode, as we briefly talk about this and a few tips to help along the way. 

There is a difference between dating and being in a relationship. Dating is feeling multiple people out to see who you are intimately compatible with. A relationship consists of actual commitment and trust between two people. In this episode of The QB Zone, I briefly share my thoughts on what dating multiple people should look like and what the benefits are.

"The best way to protect your peace and energy is by staying focused on what matters most: YOU and YOUR purpose". Season 3 Episode 2 is about tips i've learned on the journey to protecting my peace and why it is so important. Many times we dont realize how important it is. I was like that for most of my life. I hope my thoughts and lessons on this subject, helps someone acquire and keep their peace at all costs!

Oprah Winfrey says, "There is no greater gift you can give or receive than to honor your calling. It's why you were born, and how you become most truly alive". There are multiple ways in which one could have a purpose filled life. There are times in which this can vary. Episode 3 is all about purpose. Living with a purpose...feeding your purpose...benefitting from your purpose...taking care of your purpose.

Season 3 of The QB Zone Podcast starts off with me releasing my 8th book, Disrupting Pain & Activating The Soul. In this book, I touch on various topics such as grief, stress, coming back from mistakes, faith, living in your purpose, and much more. The first 3 episodes will consist of me sharing my thoughts on a topic that I randomly picked out of my new book. In episode one, I share my thoughts on a subject matter that is actually the first one I discuss in my book. It is simply titled, Get Your Fire Back.

Perfectly entitled, "Not Your Usual Relationship Chat"; my special guest and I, Shanae Joyce-Stringer, discuss relationships. Not so much the romantic aspects, although that was lightly touched on; we dived into relationships with ourselves, with our parents, and with our friends. This was the first time having a conversation about relationships from a non-romantic place. It was different and i very much enjoyed it. I'm sure you will too!

Unpredictability, transparency, and vulnerability is high and enjoyable in this episode. With my special guest, Stephone Coward, we have an "off the dome" conversation. No agenda...no direction...Just a go where our hearts lead us type of conversation. We discuss our life's journey, mental health, outlooks, inspirational thought provoking concepts, and our strengths.

You are not the darkness you endured. You are the light that refused to surrender. On average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. On this episode, we discuss a very serious topic with a very special guest. Our special guest is Tameshia Sexton, the CEO of Mesh Dollhouse. She shares her experiences with domestic violence, how she got through, and the lessons she's learned along the way.

What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make. Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value. On today's episode, I'm speaking with Tameshia Sexton. She is the CEO of Mesh Dollhouse. An amazing woman full of experiences and nuggets. We discuss tips to effective self-development and self-improvement. This was another enjoyable and enlightening conversation down to The QB Zone.

For the first time and not for the last time, The QB Zone has been taken over. At times, I plan on choosing a friend or love one to takeover my podcast and put me in the hot seat. I will have absolutely no idea what they will ask me or want to talk about. I must admit it excites me and is expected to be a lot of fun, for me to be absolutely clueless. Well this is the Friends & Family Takeover #1 with my good friend and sister Lauren Gomes. Oh we have a fun and enlightening time. As usual, Ms. Gomes does not disappoint.

Beauty care soothes the symptoms of dryness and irritation, nourishing your skin, so it's less vulnerable to damage, and you feel more comfortable. Beyond physical health, cosmetics can help to improve our mood, enhance our appearance and boost our self-esteem. They can also help to exhibit personal style and, as such, are an important means of social expression. In this episode, we talk with Licensed Esthetician and Beauty Consultant - Jasmyn Elliott. We discuss beauty and skincare tips, important products for people of color, changes in the beaty industry, the importantance of skincare to overall healthcare, and various effective products to use.

Uncensored, enlightening, entertaining, relatable; that's my guest on this episode of The QB Zone. From a big city to a small town for college, various experiences with dating and matters of the heart, and some of the lessons learned. On this episode I catch up with a dear friend and sister, Miss Shelby, as we discuss all of this and more.

The Hip Hop Caucus is non-profit, non-partisan organization focused on communities across the United States and are connected to global advocacy networks. They have members across the country and globe. They are multiracial and they center their work in communities of color. They span Gen Z, Millennials and Gen X, and they come from diverse backgrounds and experiences.Today we are spreading awareness and getting to know more about this amazing organization, as we have a conversation with their Director of Economic Justice - Mr. Stephone Coward. Website: https://hiphopcaucus.org/Facebook: Hip Hop CaucusTwitter: Hip Hop CaucusInstagram: @hiphopcaucusYoutube: Hip Hop Caucus

On multiple occasions, I have mentioned my books and how you all should buy yourself a copy or 3. Like a cook and one of their delicious creations, a singer and their new album, an actor and their new movie; you're given a sample…a teaser. Well that is exactly what this episode is about. 5 books I've released, 4 amazon bestsellers, and 1 reaching #1 in its category. 1.District 69: The Crimson Edition2.District 69: The Color Haven3.District 69: The Greek chronicles4.A Poetic Exhale (#1)5.Ice Box: Rebound & RecoverYou will be receiving even more reason why you acquiring any of my books, is enjoyment guaranteed. Well buckle up as we take a ride and experience all 5 of my books, as I tease you with one of my favorite stories and pieces from each one. This is Down in Da District: Icy Hot…story time like none other. All books are available at: Amazon, Kindle, Ibooks, Nook, and www.ramonemarquisofficial.com Contact Info:1.Email: truphoenixllc@yahoo.com2.Instagram: @ramonemarquis3.Twitter: @ramonemarquis4.Facebook: Ra'Mone Marquis5.Youtube: Quis Box

Infertility means not being able to get pregnant after one year of trying (or six months if a woman is 35 or older). Women who can get pregnant but are unable to stay pregnant may also be infertile. About 10 percent of women (6.1 million) in the United States ages 15-44 have difficulty getting pregnant or staying pregnant, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). On this episode, we have my friend and classmate Susan Allen. She brings courage and vulnerability. As she shares her journey of pain, trauma, and healing. It is very impactful and inspiring!

Often times we see women choose the wrong guy and it negatively affects them in multiple ways. Their entire world, at times, gets turned upside down. Why is that? Today we have one of my homies and classmates, Nurse and Entrepreneur Rocky Cogar. He is giving his insightful opinion, based off of experiences, and it is both honest and relatable.

My friend Jasmyn Elliott is back down to The QB Zone and we are not holding back on our opinions. We discuss and get a few things off our chests about Kanye West, Brittney Griner, Nick Cannon, the crab shortage, and Coach Stormy. Sit back and enjoy!

Lessons learned, fun, raw, and vulnerable conversation is at a high during this episode. I have an honest and enjoyable conversation with my good friend Zandra Russ. We discuss some of the lessons she's learned from her relationships, where she is at now with love, and a few juicy stories are shared along the way. Also featured in this episode, is special guest Shangri-La.

We've all heard the saying that time heals all wounds. Time only passes, it does nothing but put distance between you and the day your whole life changed. To the world, life goes on… but whether you are healed or still healing, it's always going to feel like just yesterday they were here and the love will always be fresh. On this episode, Joi Renique is down to The QB Zone. She is here to talk about her Gone Too Soon Retreat and how her journey with grief led her to create this amazing retreat. I learned some interesting things this episode and i'm sure others who have experienced grief will too.

Brand Strategy Consultant, Daquan Hall, is down to The QB Zone to talk business basics and fundamentals. What are various marketing tools that are the most effective? What are the basics to starting a business? What are common mistakes that are made with marketing? These questions and more are answered during our essential and enlightening conversation.

Enjoy fun, crazy, taking a stroll down memory lane, and just a good 'ole uncensored time with my good friend and sister Lauren Gomes. We sip on a few spirits and spill a lil 'tea, as good friends commonly do. Sit back and relax. You are guaranteed to enjoy and release a few laughs.

Being on a journey with finding one's identity with religion and connection to a higher power; I and my guest, Lauren Gomes, have a very enlightening and transparent conversation about religion. Both of us were born and raised in the church. We discuss the similarities and differences with our upbringing, and current journey with religion.