Podcasts about Women of color

Hey lady! We know that the daily onslaught of the news of these times can be distressing and difficult to ignore. There are genuine reasons to feel alarm during the current administration but we are blessed to have a deep history of having visionaries, luminaries, and trailblazers offer a blueprint of how to imagine brighter tomorrows.Octavia Butler is one of the most prescient artists of our time but her life was lived somewhat in obscurity, only coming to prominence long after her death. Yet, her writing gave way to world-building where weird, strange, genius Black women could write themselves into the future by being present with their experience. Dr. Susana M. Morris, a waymaker in her own right as a founding member of the Crunk Feminist Collective and author of Positive Obsession: The Life and Times of Octavia Butler, explores how Octavia's life circumstances, disciplined writing practice, and passion birthed works that offer a clear-eyed examination of society and culture while also giving full permission for Black women to indulge our imaginations for a beautiful future that includes us!Join Terri and Dr. Dom as they have a spirited discussion with Susana about Octavia Butler and her powerful artistry. While Octavia made it clear that she was not a prophet; she was so deeply connected to her dreams and words that she manifested a body of work that has inspired generations of future trailblazers and wayshowers. Quote of the Day:"Black women writers are necessary so that Black women can define and depict their own experiences rather than being objects in the stories of others." – Octavia Butler  Where to find Susana Morris:Website: Susanmorris.comBook: Positive Obsession: The Life and Times of Octavia ButlerInstagram: @susiemayeTwitter (X): @iamcrunkadelicThreads: @susiemaye    Goal Mapping Starter GuideCultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Resources:Dr. Dom's Therapy Practice Branding with TerriMelanin and Mental Health Therapy for Black Girls Psychology TodayTherapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.

In this episode, we dive deep into the unseen labor that women, especially women of color, navigate daily—whether it's managing societal expectations around beauty, facing structural inequities in the workplace, or advocating for change in a world resistant to it. From colorism and the “hot girl tax” to pay transparency, unionization, and the power of community, our guest shares candid insights and personal experiences to illuminate both challenges and actionable solutions.

Hey lady! While the Make America Healthy Again movement is in full steam the proponents seem to only offer conflicting messages about exactly what will make America healthy again. And, while you may be no stranger to doing your own research, these days it's nice when you can find a source you trust.Enter Sherece Brown, the founder of Dr. Pabs, Pineapple is a Berry a holistic company dedicated to vitamins and supplements for your littles all the way up to your teens. Sherece shares how her Caribbean upbringing made a big impact on how she approaches wellness and why her attention to detail makes her company one that families can rely on for additional nutritional support. Tune in to find out about Sherece's unique journey and how you can grab a bottle or two for your family. Quote of the Day:"The foundation of good health begins with what we put in our bodies." – Sherece Brown  Where to find Sherece Brown:Website: DrPabs.comInstagram: @Dr.Pabs_Facebook: Dr. Pabs Pineapple is a BerryTikTok: @Dr.Pabs_  Goal Mapping Starter GuideCultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Resources:Dr. Dom's Therapy PracticeBranding with TerriMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology TodayTherapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.

Hey lady! You know like we know that sometimes we are…right. It's never about being right, it's just the truth that sometimes we have opinions that are actually right even if they may be controversial.This week, Terri and Dr. Dom offer a cheeky look at some real “hear us out” situations that will possibly get them cancelled. The two offer some common sense perspectives about things we may have been socialized to believe that are no longer true (White looks just as good in the winter as it does in the Summer) and some that we have been socialized to believe that were actually never true (sugar belongs in a lot of places…just not grits). Lady, tap in on Instagram and let us know which opinions you have that would get you cancelled (respectfully)! Which one of these opinions do you not so secretly agree with? Quote of the Day:“It's givin' ‘I'm right, but let's discuss it anyway.'"— Every Black woman with receipts and restraint    Goal Mapping Starter Guide Cultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Resources:Dr. Dom's Therapy PracticeBranding with TerriMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology TodayTherapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.

In Unrig the Game: What Women of Color Can Teach Everyone About Winning, author Vanessa Priya Daniel writes about the challenges that women of color face. She includes a satirical section formatted like a job description, where she details the duties of women of color leaders. They include “Be likable at all costs,” “Work with zero margin of error” and “Be a willing screen onto which your staff can project the other women authority figures who ever disappointed them in life.” These are just a few of the barriers that women of color in leadership deal with. But despite these barriers, Daniel also points out that women of color are also often drivers of change. GUEST: Vanessa Priya Daniel: Principal at Vanessa Daniel Consulting, LLC. She has worked in social justice movements for 25 years, and her book Unrig the Game: What Women of Color Can Teach Everyone About Winning came out in March, 2025. Vanessa Priya Daniel will be speaking at the Community Fund for Women & Girls' 30th Anniversary Celebration on November 13th in New Haven. You can find out more at this website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Addicted to chaos and busyness? Maybe it's cause your body learned that busyness felt safe. In this episode, we explore how to unlearn that pattern.I share the science behind why high achievers struggle to rest including the dopamine loop of achievement, the cortisol trap, and the trauma of chaos.You'll learn why rest is important for your nervous system resetting.I'll share how to replace overwork with presence, peace, and purpose cause you don't need to EARN rest. You already deserve it.Resources MentionedBook: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der KolkWebsite: PsychologyToday.com – to find a therapist licensed in your areaArticles Referenced:National Institute on Drug Abuse – research on the dopamine loop of achievementHarvard Health – research on stress and the cortisol trapTravel Recommendation: El Nido Resorts, Palawan, PhilippinesWhere We Can Connect:Schedule a Business & Career Review call with me to see if it's a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callCheck out our 320+ client reviews on Google and our websiteFollow the Podcast on AppleFollow the Podcast on SpotifyFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out our other podcasts for Women of Color

How do we advocate for equity amidst federal policy changes that actively widen gender and racial gaps?Since April, a record-low unemployment rate for Black Americans has skyrocketed, surging from below 5% to 7.5%. At the same time, the unemployment rate for white Americans dropped slightly to below 4%. The economic position for Black women in particular was just beginning to get better, and today, slashed public sector jobs and a slew of other factors are causing a rapid backslide.When people of color, and especially Black women, lose ground, it's a flashing neon warning sign of systemic cracks that, ultimately, impact us all. In this episode, I'm breaking down the of data that highlights just how heavily our current economic problems are impacting American workers, families, and communities.The numbers don't lie. Here's what they show:The federal and public sector job cuts are disproportionately impacting Black women;Attacks on DEI programs are stifling improvements that had barely begun;Good leadership today looks like advocating for equity and opportunity for all.Related Links:Joint Center for Economic and Policy Research, “The Best Black Economy in Generations – And Why It Isn't Enough” - https://jointcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/The-Best-Black-Economy-in-Generations-Final.pdfEconomic Policy Institute, “What's behind rising unemployment for Black workers?” - https://www.epi.org/blog/whats-behind-rising-unemployment-for-black-workers/The New York Times, “The Racial Wage Gap is Shrinking” - https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/19/briefing/juneteenth-racial-wage-gap.htmlThe New York Times, “In Trump's Federal Work Force Cuts, Black Women Are Among the Hardest Hit” - https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/31/us/politics/trump-federal-work-force-black-women.htmlMSNBC, “300,000 Black women have left the labor force in 3 months. It's not a coincidence.” - https://www.msnbc.com/know-your-value/business-culture/300000-black-women-left-labor-force-3-months-s-not-coincidence-rcna219355The New York Times, “Black Unemployment Is Surging Again. This Time Is Different.” - https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/12/business/economy/black-unemployment-federal-layoffs-diversity-initiatives.htmlThe New York Times, “Trump Fires Black Officials From an Overwhelmingly White Administration” - https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/08/us/politics/black-leaders-trump.htmlThe White House, “Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity” - https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/ending-illegal-discrimination-and-restoring-merit-based-opportunity/The New York Times, “How Corporate America Is Retreating From D.E.I.” - https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2025/03/13/business/corporate-america-dei-policy-shifts.htmlBrookings, “Black wealth is increasing, but so is the racial wealth gap - https://www.brookings.edu/articles/black-wealth-is-increasing-but-so-is-the-racial-wealth-gap/Episode 526, The Double Tax: What It Really Costs Women of Color to Succeed - https://www.bossedup.org/podcast/episode526TAKE ACTION with Bossed Up - https://www.bossedup.org/takeactionBossed Up Courage Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/927776673968737/Bossed Up LinkedIn Group - https://www.linkedin.com/groups/7071888/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hey lady! In these trying times connecting with community is more important than ever. Community is not just your close friends or even your family. Community is the place where you live, work, and play. It contains history, wisdom and can thrive when tended to well. That's why Dr. Dom and Terri are thrilled to welcome M. Simone Boyd and Andrea Tudhope, hosts of the podcast We Are North Nashville, as they discuss the power of collecting the stories of the elders in the community to create a beautiful tapestry of legacy, love, and pride.Inspired by a series of tragic events that occurred during the pandemic, Simone set out to capture the stories of the elders in her life before it was too late. But, as she soon found out the work was worthy but the emotional labor would take a toll if she didn't recruit help for her noble mission. Together, with her co-hosts, Andrea and Steve Haruch, the three embarked on a journey of bridge building, record setting, and community preservation that has led to a fulfilling audio project the residents of North Nashville can feel proud of. If you're in a space where you know you need to build community and you want to contribute to the community you live in but don't know where to get started tune in to today's episode. Andrea and Simone offer their perspective on how approaching people and conversations from a heart-centered place can get all of us back to a place where we peacefully coexist and thrive together. Lady, we want to hear from you! Holla at us in Instagram and let us know how you're building community or working to preserve the stories of the community you're in. Quote of the Day:"It needs to be pointed out...the things that were done to North Nashville to sacrifice that part of Nashville in the name of progress."– Thomas Wilson  Goal Mapping Starter Guide Cultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Where to find We Are North Nashville:Website: wearenorthnashville.orgPodcast: We Are North NashvilleInstagram: @wearenorthnashvilleFacebook: We Are North Nashville  Resources:Dr. Dom's Therapy PracticeBranding with TerriMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology TodayTherapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.

Send me a text message and get your questions answered on the podcast! I'd love to hear from you! A slower economy, tighter budgets, and unpredictable algorithms don't have to stall your growth. We take a clear-eyed look at what's changed and map a calmer, smarter path forward—one that keeps your mission intact while giving you permission to change the route. If buyer anxiety is stretching sales cycles and your marketing feels scattered, this conversation gives you practical ways to streamline, clarify, and sell in any economy.Connect with me at Dr. Angelina Davis on Instagram or LinkedIn, and visit excelconsulting.com for resources to support your journey. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review. I would love for you to join our community of ambitious consultants breaking glass ceilings!

We tell women to negotiate harder, lean in, and ask for what they're worth. But what if the system was designed to make that impossible? Economist Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman calls it the double tax—the compounded price of racism and sexism that drains women of color's time, money, and energy just to show up and succeed.In this episode, we unpack how that hidden tax shows up at work—from policing what it means to be “presentable” to the unconscious stereotypes women of color navigate before they even get the job —and what it means for the ways women negotiate, lead, and thrive. Anna breaks down the numbers and the stories behind them, revealing why individual fixes aren't enough and what real equity could look like when we stop asking women to bear the cost alone. Tune in now to learn: Listen in to learn:Just how widespread the “double tax” really is;The deeply ingrained politics of presentability every woman navigates;How biases and stigmas follow women of color throughout their careers;Why building connection is the foundational step we needRelated Links:The Double Tax by Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman - https://annagifty.com/Connect with Anna on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/annagifty/Follow Anna on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/itsafronomics/Follow Anna on Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/itsafronomics.bsky.social/Episode 322, How to be a Leader People Actually Like - https://www.bossedup.org/podcast/episode322Episode 456, How Connection Can Cure What Ails Us - https://www.bossedup.org/podcast/episode456Episode 497, Where Have All the Good Friends Gone? - https://www.bossedup.org/podcast/episode497HIRED: a job search accelerator video course - https://www.bossedup.org/hired/Bossed Up Courage Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/927776673968737/Bossed Up LinkedIn Group - https://www.linkedin.com/groups/7071888/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hey lady, this week, Dr. Dom and Terri delve into a topic that affects a third of Black women in the United States – divorce. While the process of divorce can often be painful, tedious, and costly it does not always mean that getting divorced is a bad thing. In fact, it can be one of the most liberating, self-actualizing events to occur in a woman's life.Terri offers her perspective as a recent divorcee and offers actionable tips to help you think through what life can be like post nuptials. And, Dr. Dom offers her perspective as a licensed clinical psychologist who works closely with women to process their lives pre- and post-divorce so that they can write beautiful new chapters in their full life stories.Together, they provide a framework where women facing divorce, recovering from divorce, or embarking on new horizons as a whole, single woman can all walk forward with their head's high and excited about their lives.Tune in for a grounded conversation about the highs and the lows of divorce and give yourself grace for wherever you are on the path. Quote of the Day:“Divorce is not a failure: Redefine failure and success for yourself and what you truly believe about life. Not what society tells us. There are many married people who are quietly miserable; is this success?” – Carol Madden  Goal Mapping Starter Guide Cultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Resources:Dr. Dom's Therapy PracticeBranding with TerriMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology TodayTherapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.

Main PointsMoney isn't just math,  it's a relationship. In this conversation with Certified Financial Planner and poet Uchechi Kalu, we unpack the real stories behind your bank account:Why your money mindset starts with culture & family, not spreadsheets.Uchechi's 3-part framework: Technical · Psychological · Cultural; and how to use it like a wheel.The “Cost of Being You” exercise that reveals what enough truly means.How women of color can plan preventatively in an unstable economy.What happens when love meets money — and how to have that talk (without fighting).Resources Mentioned:Book: I Will Teach You To Be Rich by Ramit SethiMoney personality test: Money Coaching InstituteUchechi Kalu's website: greenlightfp.comLinkedInInstagram: @dearuchechi Where We Can Connect:Schedule a Business & Career Review call with me to see if it's a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callCheck out our 320+ client reviews on Google and our websiteFollow the Podcast on AppleFollow the Podcast on SpotifyFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out our other podcasts for Women of Color

BIO: Sandra Van OpstalEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND CO-FOUNDER OF CHASING JUSTICESandra Maria Van Opstal, a second-generation Latina, is Co-Founder and Executive Director of Chasing Justice, a movement led by people of color to mobilize a lifestyle of faith and justice . She is an international speaker, author, and activist, recognized for her courageous work in pursuing justice and disrupting oppressive systems within the church. As a global prophetic voice and an active community member on the west-side of Chicago, Sandra's initiatives in holistic justice equip communities around the world to practice biblical solidarity and mutuality within various social and cultural locations.https://chasingjustice.com/sandra-van-opstal/ Giving in Chicago: https://newlifecenters.org/ Ordg to follow in chicagohttps://www.icirr.org/ Tshirt https://secure.qgiv.com/for/peoplearenotillegalt-shirt/Danielle (00:09):good afternoon, y'all. I have a second video coming to you from my dear friend and colleague in Chicago, Humboldt Park area, a faith leader there that collaborates with the different faith communities in the area. And she's going to talk about some ways she's personally affected by what's happening by the invasion there and how you can think about things, how you might get involved. I hope you'll join me in this conversation and honor yourself. Stay curious, honor, humanity, get involved. Take collective action. Talk to your own neighbor. Let's start caring really well for one another.Oh wow. Sandra, you know me. This is Jenny McGrath. This is my colleague. She's a bible nut. She wrote out the Bible How many times?Like scripture nut and a researcher, a therapist and purity culture, kind of like Survivor, but did a lot of work with women around that. And we talk a lot about race and current events. And I restarted my podcast and I asked Jenny if she'd want to join me. She has a great love for justice and humans and making a difference. So that's kind of how Jenny joined up with me. Right. Anything else you want to say?Sandra, I saw your post on social media and I was like, I could do that. I could contribute to that. And so that's what I'm here to do. Want to hear about your experience. What does resilience look like for you all over there? What do you need from us? How can we be a part of what's happening in Chicago from wherever we are? And if there's practical needs or things you want to share here, we can also send those out.Yeah. Can you tell us a little bit about who you are, what you do, where you're located in Chicago, and just a little bit even about your family, if you're willing?Sandra (01:40):Yeah, sure. So it's great to be with you guys. I'm Sandra Van Opal and I'm here on the west side of Chicago in a neighborhood called Humble Park. It's if you see in the news with all that's happening, it's the humble Hermosa, Avondale kind of zone of the ice crackdown. Well, let's not call it a crackdown. The ice invasion(02:06):Here in Chicago. I am the daughter of immigrants, so my mom is from Columbia. My father was from Argentina. They came to live in Chicago when they were in their twenties and thirties. They met in English class, so they were taking TOEFL exams, which is an exam you take in order to enter into college and schooling here in the US to show your language proficiency. And so they met learning English and the rest is history. I grew up here. I've lived here my whole life. I'm raising my family here. I'm married. I have two kids that just turned 11, so they're in fifth grade and sixth grade. And the school that they go to is a primarily immigrant school immersion, Spanish immersion. So it's a school where you take classes basically 90% in Spanish when you start and you move every year a little bit more English until you graduate when you're 50 50.(03:03):And so the school context they've been in has been receiving a lot of new neighbors, a lot of new classmates. And for that reason, actually most of their classes are still almost fully in Spanish, so they should probably be 60 40 right now. But I think a lot of their curriculum is still in Spanish, or the children have the option of having the math book in Spanish or English if they want it. If they're supposed to be English Spanish, or sorry, English math this year, then they might choose to have a Spanish book even if the instruction is in English. So that's the context I live in. I am here. I live in a home. I have chickens and a garden, and I love to be outside watching my neighbors and connecting with people. And we have a black club in our community, so a lot of our information that we're sharing with each other is through our email list and our signal group. Yeah. Oh, also what I do, I run an organization called Chasing Justice, which is focused on the intersection of faith and making the world a better place. And I am a local pastor and author on issues of worship and justice. So that's my function in this world.Danielle (04:31):I think we talk about what's happening in one sense, it seems like social media and other ways like Zoom, we're on a screen with Zoom and we're all in three different locations right now. We think of ourselves as really connected. But then when tragedy strikes or trauma or an invasion, for instance, strikes, we're connected, but it seems like we're also disconnected from one another and the practical needs and storytelling on the ground, and what does resilience look like for one person versus another? Or what does survival versus thriving look like for one person versus another? And how do we kind of join together and form a collective bond in that? I've been thinking a lot about that after I read your post Sandra on Instagram and what does that mean for me? And just as I'm talking, what does that mean for you or what are thoughts that come to mind for you?Sandra (05:27):Yeah, I am think I remember what posts you're referring to, but I think part of it is whenever something happens in our world, I believe that because of the highly digitally connected world that we're in, it feels like we are all supposed to say something. That's how we respond. Something happens and we all go, that's not right, which I think is good, we should say that, but I think the frustration, I'm sure people in LA and DC felt that, but it's like something is happening in your real life every day to your neighbors and everybody all around the country is commenting on it and commenting with such confidence and commenting with such expertise, and you're like, wait a minute. That's not how I would say that. And I think the reason that maybe that post came up for me as a kind of, it was less frustration and more sorrow, I think it felt more, more sorrow that the people that are most impacted by the issues are not the ones that are given the voice to talk about how those systems of oppression are impacting them. And I think the reason I think about things like that is I remember when I first started pastoring locally here. I mean, I had been working for a parachurch organization doing national and international work. I really felt like it was time for me to become a local pastor to understand, hey, if I'm going to be writing to pastors and speaking to pastors and challenging pastors, I should probably know what it's like to be one. And so I was supposed to be a five year stint, which ended up being 12 years pastoring locally.(07:08):And in my discussions with my staff team, I would often have one of them very respectfully, I was the executive pastors in a community with hierarchy. So they would very respectfully say, Hey, your friends that are out there blogging and writing articles and books, they're talking about stuff in ways we would never talk about it. They're talking about it in a tone that we would never use to talk about our situation and with words we would never use to describe our situation. And it's not that my friends maybe didn't have a perspective, it's that it didn't reflect their perspective. And so I think I became very sensitive to that, paying attention to, oh, how do expert justice people talk about issues of justice versus the people that are most impacted by those issues of injustice? Or how do people from within a community express their journey in ways that maybe even have a different tone than mostly anger that was coming out from the justice space?(08:10):And they're like, we wouldn't say it that way. We wouldn't talk about it that way. So I think because of that, it's really important when something happens in a local space and it is impacting us all nationally, national news, that we ask the question, how can I hear the voices of the people that this is most impacting? And so that's why I think I wrote that post. I was like, A lot of y'all have a lot to say about Chicago who don't live here and thank you, but no thank you. Invite us to talk for ourselves, invite us to speak for ourselves because there are local pastors and priests and imams and mental health providers who are experiencing this in a very real way that they probably could shed some light on what would be helpful to us. I called a bunch of friends in Los Angeles when things were happening there, and I was like, oh, how are you guys doing?(09:05):What's really happening? How can we help? If you don't have time to reply back, just know that I'm here praying for you, and I'm like with you and I'm sending money to the orgs. I see you posting and don't know what else to do. Obviously, the ice raids are impacting all of us across the country, but they're impacting each city in very different ways. Each city is a very different city with a very different ethos and a way of handling things. And as you guys know, Chicago is the best. I'm so proud of us right now. I'm so proud of us. We're like, no, you can't talk to us like that. No, you can't have our streets. But it also gets us into trouble because it's rooted in our philosophy of community organizing, though the linsky method, which is agitation, agitation, agitation. So we have stuff to learn too. But that's what you're seeing in Chicago is a lot of agitation. But yeah, that's why I wrote it. I wrote it like, I know 20 community leaders you could talk to here in Chicago that would give you a good idea of what we're experiencing and what would be best for us if you wanted to come alongside of us and help in prayer. So yeah.Jenny (10:27):Yeah, I think just a sense of wanting to hear more, whatever you feel. Well, and whatever feels safe to share in this podcast setting of just what it has been like for you to be on the ground in the community that you're in, in the roles that you're in with the family you're in. I just find myself curious about your experience.Sandra (10:52):Yeah. Okay. So I think about this in three different areas. One is, how is this impacting me as a parent, the other in my family and connected to family members. The other one is how is this impacting me as a neighbor? And then the other is, how is this impacting me as a civic leader, as a faith leader here? And so the hardest one has actually been, as a parent, if I could be honest with you, it's really been hard. Those of us that have raised kids, especially younger children or well all children, they each have their own season of development. But raising kids and being a village for children right now I think is really hard. They've gone through lockdown, George Floyd protests, watching multiple genocides, a war in Ukraine, and now this locally. And I believe in talking to your kids about what's happening and talking to them about it in ways that is appropriate for their age. So that has changed for me since my children were five when the pandemic started and now they're 11. That has changed for me what that looks like.(12:32):But there are many families, dozens of families in their school that have not returned since the ice raids have started. Their friends are missing from class. Ice has repeatedly been around their school. Ice has been on our corner where we grocery shop, get tacos, go to therapy. My son asked me the other day, will they throw me on the ground? If they see me, will they throw me on the ground? And this is one of my sons already struggles a lot with anxiety and he has anxiety, and he's also a black child. And so he's already been processing being black in the context of law enforcement in our city and what's happened. And so I think he kind of went through that season and he's like, so will they throw me on the ground if they see me? And I'm like, no, buddy. They're not going to. Hopefully there's enough cameras around that they'll throw you on the ground.(13:42):And so I think trying to figure out how to answer those kinds of questions. How can we think about our friends? How can we pray for our friends? We've done a lot more prayer in the 15 minute commutes to and from school, I think just for very specific needs that our neighbors are going through. And neighbor that I live in close proximity to the other day was running an errand and was detained by ice and was let go on the spot in the parking lot of the Home Depot, but its someone our kids know really well and helping them to process that. Their friend, a neighbor has gone through this, I think requires a different set of parenting skills and I believe are in most parenting books.(14:48):And so I find myself almost, man, I wish there was a resource for that man. I wish there was a place to talk about that. Let me talk to my neighbor about how they talk to their kids about that. And for those of us that come from Latino cultures, we don't really talk about hard things a lot. We're not really taught to talk about them. It's like we endure them and we go through them, but we don't give them space for processing. And so both of my children are in therapy. I don't know what they talk about in therapy, probably girls and love interests and bullying and all the rest of the things that kids talk about, but I think they probably unpack some of what they're going through with their friends. They are also wanting to make a difference. So we're trying to figure out what does that look for them to make things good in the community they live in.(15:42):So that's the first area is parenting. I don't know if you guys have anything to add advice to give me on that, but I think the hardest thing for me is what do we do with our children? What do we do with a generation that is growing up, watching their government step over so many boundaries, doing things that are completely illegal or unethical or dangerous for our society and feeling like, Hey, we're living in a time, I know a lot of people posted the quote from Ann Frank talking about what was happening in their streets. And I'm like, yeah, my kids are watching that. And I don't know how they're processing it or where they see their faith in the midst of that. I mean, luckily we have an amazing church. We talk about stuff like that all the time. So I mean, yeah, the mayor goes to our church and the pastor's an amazing person, and we have lots of civic leaders and law enforcement in our church. So I think they're watching, they're able to have some mentorship in that area, I think because spoken about from the pulpit, but man, being little must be really hard right now.Danielle (17:09):Maybe we don't need to press too fast, even though we're in a podcast right now. I think it bears the weight of just a little bit of space to just hang with that comment. I have older kids than you. As recently, I told my 20-year-old son who we are not suffering yet, the street raids. For some reason, Seattle hasn't been the focus point yet, but he did lose his federal aid and his Pell grants and everything for college this year. And so him and a lot of other kids had a significant do have a significant college tuition to make up. And we were talking about it and I was like, well, this will be the normal for you. This will be what's normal. This will be what's normal for our family. And my husband actually stepped in and said to me in a moment of despair and lament, because my son wants to be a music teacher.(18:21):He said to me, he's like, but you always tell me nothing's impossible. We can figure it out. And I was like, yeah, I do say that, but I don't believe it right now. He is like, well, he's like, I believe it right now. So I don't know what it looks like to come up with an extra for us. It's an extra $6,000, so we don't have the money yet, but what does it look like? But I think it goes back to that sense of finding some balance with our kids of what's real, what's not giving. What I hear for you, Sandra, and I'm kind of fumbling through my words, so maybe Jenny can step in, but offering our kids the validation of their reality that's so important in age appropriate and the different steps we're in the validation of reality. But I also find myself searching and grasping for where's the hope? Where are the strands of faith for our family? Where are the strands of hope searching for? Like you said, what are the practical actions your boys can do that also kind of I think plant seeds and generate hope in their hearts when we can step out and do actions?Sandra (19:43):Yeah. No, I think the hard part is I can't promise them things will get better. I can't promise them there's going to be an end to genocide in Palestine. I can't promise them. I keep telling everyone, when we pray at night and we talk about our days and stuff, and I just tell 'em, we, my husband and I tell 'em, and the only thing we can promise you is that God is with us. And I think the reality is when you've had proximity to our global siblings, that suffering didn't just start two Octobers ago or even for our own families. The suffering as my African brother once told me at a conference, he said, what do you mean when we suffer? Life is suffering and suffering is life. Or if we suffer, someone said, yeah, if we suffer, it's like some pretty from the west if we suffer.(20:35):It's like no, life is suffering and suffering is life. So I think part of it is we have within our story as people who follow the Jesus way, we have a story of people who have really always suffered. The story of scripture is a story of marginalized, persecuted, displaced people that are wandering in a land looking for home. And in those stories, you find God's presence with them. You find the worship of their creator. You find moments of joy, rhythms of feasting and fasting. You find all the traditions we do now that come out of the story of the people. So I can tell them, baby, I can only promise you that God is with us the same way that God was with, we go through the stories and the same way that God has always been with the black church in America, the same way that God has always been with our Latino community, the same way that God is with our siblings in Gaza, God is with us.(21:35):And so it doesn't take the pain away, but we can know that God is there. I try to teach my kids, lemme tell you, this is so bad parenting. Sorry, you can cut this out if you need to. But the other day we were praying for our country and I said, God, I just pray. Pray for Trump. I pray God, either you would change his heart or you would help him to go to sleep and just not wake up tomorrow. And then my son was like, I can't believe you prayed that prayer. Mom, I can't believe you said that. That's such a bad prayer. I was like, have you read the Psalms?(22:12):I was like, tonight, let's read a psalm. I'm going to read to you what David prayed for his enemies. And just because the Bible calls us to love our enemies and to see them as human does not mean we cannot pray that they will fall asleep. And so I said, I'm not saying I'm going to do anything bad. I know my phone's listening to me right now. I'm not saying I'm going to take matters into my own hands. I'm just saying I wouldn't be sad. That's all. And he's like, he just could not get over it because, and he just kept digging. Papa, Papa would never pray a prayer like that. He would never, I said, Papa hasn't read the Psalms. I read the Psalms. I know exactly what the Psalms say. And I was like, and the thing is because God is for good, because God is against evil and because God knows my heart, he knows God knows how much I love him, and I'm asking him to please take this evil away from our neighborhood.(23:04):Please take this evil away from our country. Please take this evil away. We're living in evil times, Terry. These are bad times. And this is not only a bad person. This is somebody that's raising up all of the badness to be allowed. And so I'm going to pray that prayer every day. And I know that you think it's not good, and I'm so sorry, but tonight we'll read the Psalms. Then that night we read some Psalms. I was like, see what David prays for his enemy. I said, and the thing is, God is there with us in our prayers. He's not like, what? I can't believe she cussed. I can't believe she said that bad. I can't believe she want to be friends with this guy that's too evil. And so I think part of it's processing faith with them. It's like, I don't know what kind of, let's just talk about Jesus and what he said. Let's talk about what the Bible models for us and prayer. Let's talk about It's okay to be mad. It's okay. It's okay to want evil to end. It doesn't mean we take things into our own hands, but it's okay to want the evil to end. And so those are the kinds of conversations where I go home, I'm like, okay, let me just look at my stuff. Is that wrong? Is that theologically correct? I called my husband. Do you think this is theologically okay? Am I mal forming our children? But I feel like it's an okay prayer, isn't it an okay prayer? Those are the kinds of things that are happening. I don't know,Jenny (24:37):I mean, I am not a theologian, but I think it's an okay prayer to pray. And I'm just thinking about, I've had two thoughts going through my mind, and one of course I couldn't and wouldn't want to put on some type of silver lining and be like, kids are going to be fine. They're resilient. And something that we say in the somatic trauma world a lot is that trauma isn't about an event. It's often about not having a safe place to go in the midst of or after an event. And what I just keep hearing is you making yourself available to be a safe place for your kids to process and reimagine what moving through this moment looks like. And also holding that in families that are being torn apart, that don't have those safe places to go in this moment. And I think part of what we're experiencing is this term, the boomerang of imperialism, as you said, these are not new things happening to families all over the world. And the ricochet of how we are now experiencing that in the heart of the empire, where I find my sense of hope is that that is the sign that the snake is eating its head and it will collapse. And I believe in rebirth and regrowth and hope that we can create a world that is different than a world that builds empires that do this to families. And as where my mind goes.Sandra (26:39):Yeah. And I think for ourselves, for our children, for in the work that I do with chasing justice with activists, it's like the only thing I can do, I'm not going to be able to change the world. The only thing I can do is change the little world that I'm in. So what can I do to make a difference and make things good in the world that I'm in? And so it boils down to very, very practical, tangible, embodied unfancy. Things like calling your neighbors and checking in on them to see if they need you to take their kids to school, finding out if everybody got home, okay. When there was a raid in a particular area, asking, or not even asking, but dropping food off for people and saying, Hey, we made a grocery room. We just thought we'd pick up some essentials for everybody.(27:27):Because part of it too is how do you do that without asking your, how do you help your neighbor without asking your neighbor their status? And that's not appropriate. And how do you help your neighbor without assuming they don't have money or making them feel like some kind of project? And so I think part of it is figuring out how to practice mutual aid in ways that are communal that just says, Hey, we picked up this. We figured this week we'd drop it off to five different families, and next week we'll do five other families. Who knows if they need it or not, but at least they know you're thinking of them. I think something you said about trauma, which I think is really important when you work in communities where you have communal, collective, complex generational trauma, which is we're just always living in this.(28:19):I have status, so I don't worry about leaving my home. I also am white. I'm a white Latina, so I'm not like, well, maybe they'll pull me over. Well, I don't know. But I know if I was browner my other family members that would definitely be like, please carry a copy of your passport and your ID at all times. But now I don't leave the house without, I used to leave the house with my keys and my phone, maybe a wallet. I don't know where a wallet is. Now I'm like, oh, I better have my ID on me(28:48):Mostly because if I intervene, I'm afraid if I get arrested, I won't have ID on me. But I think about all the ways that you have to leave the house differently now. And this is for people that they already felt vulnerable in their TPS, in their temporary protective status status or in their undocumented status or in their green card holder status or whatever status they had, that they already felt vulnerable in some way. And now if they don't go to work, their family doesn't eat, so they leave the house. But how do they leave the house? If you go to school every day and you're wondering if your parents are going to pick you up because now you're aware you have this emergency family plan, what does that feel like day in and day out, decade after decade to feel vulnerable? That kind of trauma is something I don't understand in my body, though I understand it as a concept.(29:47):It's the trauma of feeling vulnerable at all times of sending your kids out into the world. And because our US Supreme Court and because our government has decided it's okay to racially profile people, so I keep telling my mom, you better not be speaking Spanish at Target. She's bilingual. I'm like, please do not speak Spanish at Target. Do not open your mouth. And I would never have said that ever in the past, super proud of being a Latina and being bilingual, but I'm scared for my mom. And so I'm checking in on family members who have vulnerable status. I'm trying to find out if everybody's okay. So I think there are, it's like I told my husband the other day, and the car was like, can you imagine having this kind of fear day in and day out for decades at a time in a country and building a life?(30:44):And all of a sudden, many of our DACA recipients or young undocumented folks that are in college, all of a sudden they're not going to finish their degree. They're now in a country they don't even know. They didn't grow up there in a language they don't understand or their spouse is missing. And now they don't know if they're in Swatee, they don't know if they're in Mexico. They don't know where they are. And so I think that, I don't know that I fully understand what to do about that as a neighbor or as a pastor, but to say there must be something within the community like some gift or strength or accessing that helps them endure that kind of trauma when they cannot reach out for help.(31:44):My brother also told me the other day, he's an ER doctor. He's like, man, the county ER is so empty right now because people go to the county hospital for services when they don't have insurance. And many, many of them are Asian, south Asian, Latino, and African immigrants, and now they're not going or Ukrainian or Russian or whatever. So now it's emptiness and churches. Some of our churches are used to be 300 people now. There's like 40 people on a Sunday. So the reporting that I'm hearing from, whether it's the hospitals or just the stores, if you drive down our street, it's like empty nest. It is never empty. There's always people walking around on the street, whole family is going grocery shopping now. There's just nobody out. It's like a ghost town. Nobody's leaving unless they have to leave. And so it changes the feel of a community. It changes the environment. People that need access to healthcare aren't going for their follow-up appointments or their treatments because they're afraid to go to the hospital. People that would normally go to law enforcement if there's domestic violence or something happening, which already would feel very, very difficult to do, are unwilling to do it because they're afraid to leave and afraid to report to any law enforcement. Even in a sanctuary city.(33:18):I don't know what's happening to these families that aren't going to school. I'm assuming that the school has some kind of e-learning doing for them or some kind of packets they're making for the kids in the meantime while they're missing school. But there's all these things that daily rhythms of life that aren't happening. And so for many of us are like, I don't feel like going to church today. Oh, well, I feel like I'm many Sundays. I don't feel like going to church for other people, the privilege of attending worship in a congregational setting is something they'd love to have that they just can't access anymore. And so there's all these things that have changed about our daily reality that I don't know if we're going to fully understand how that's impacted us until years from now. We just don't see an end to it. We're not sure when this is going to end.Danielle (34:13):I have a flurry of thoughts going through my mind as you're speaking. One is when I did a consult with my analyst that I consult with, and we were talking about anxiety around different things with clients, and she was like, well, that's not anxiety, that's terror. And this person should feel terror because that's the reality.(34:45):That's not a pathology. So that's number one just in the therapy world, we don't want to pathologize people for feeling this terror in their bodies when that's actually the appropriate response. When immigration is sitting outside on your street, you should feel terror. Your body's giving you the appropriate warning signal. So I think about just even the shortcomings of Western psychological frameworks to address what's happening. We can't pathologize. It's not about prescribing enough medication. It's not about that. I do think you're right. I think there's some sense of, I've even felt it in my own body as you talk, a sense of, I'm going to engage what Sandra's saying and I'm also going to separate myself just enough in case that happens in Seattle so I can be just distant enough. So I got to get up, I got to eat. I got to feed my kids, I got to make sure everything's happening, got to go to work.(35:40):So I can almost feel it happening. As you describe it, we call it dissociation in psychology world, but in my analyst world, she would call it a psychic retreat, which I really like. Your psyche is kind of in a battle. You might come back from the front line to preserve yourself. And that's kind of how I think of the collective mentality a bit come back from the front lines in certain ways. So you could preserve, I need to eat, I need to sleep, I need to drink some water. I need to breathe air. So that's one thing I'm thinking about that's maybe collectively happening on multiple levels. The other thing I'm thinking about is if you're listening to this and you're in a body, even mine, a same as you, like a light-skinned Latina, white Latina, and our family has a lot of mixed identities and statuses, but if you're not in one of these situations, you can help mental health by going out and getting shit done.Sandra (36:50):Yes, absolutely. Get it done, get it done, get it done. It's like show up, put yourself. I think that's half the battle is how do we show up in spaces? I think white folks have to ask themselves. That's why all the protests, it's like, yes, it's diverse, but it's a whole lot of white people.The reason is because a lot of black folks, brown folks, vulnerable folks, we're not going to put ourselves in a position where we can have an encounter with law enforcement. So one of the things I have to say, talking about church, one of the things our pastor said the Sunday before, not the No Kings, but the immigration protest, it was like maybe a month ago, he said, listen, some of us should not be at that protest because we have a record, because we are prone to be maybe, what is it called? Oh my gosh, we're prone to be singled out by the police. We should not be there. We should pray. We should stay at home. We should host people when they come back and feed them. We should not be there. Others of us, we should be there. And you know who you are.(37:55):And so I think that's part of the discernment, which I think that's literally, it's half the conversations I'm having with people is should my children go to this protest? I fully intended to go to the No Kings protest with my full family, all of us. And I also saw these amazing alternatives like a rally for families and children. And so all these parks all over the city of Chicago, which again, were an amazing city, they had all these alternatives for if your child, someone in your family does not do crowds well, right? You're immunocompromised or you have anxiety, or I thought about, oh, maybe we shouldn't take my son to this protest. Maybe he's going to actually get an anxiety attack. Maybe we should go to this. So we had all those options till the very last minute we're decided to go to Kids Rally, but there were options for us to show up.(38:43):So when you can show up, show up if your neighborhood, there's a ton of activities in, I hope other cities are doing this too, but they're packing these little zines and these little whistles and they're telling people what to do. It's like, okay, now there's this Instagram blast about, oh, the ice is over here, and everyone shows up in their cars and they all honk their horn. You can show up in a neighborhood, honk your horn, you can blow a whistle. And we're fully intending to give away free whistles for every person that buys. The people are not a legal t-shirt for chasing justice. We're like, have a whistle. Get ready. If anything, even if you never blow that whistle, no ice in your town, you're trying to show people that I'm prepared. I'm prepared to raise my voice for you. I'm prepared to show up for you.(39:34):And so it ends up being maybe an artifact or a symbol of our willingness to ally if the time should come. But yeah, some of us, we have more privilege and showing up because I definitely have two lawyers in my speed dial right now because my husband knows that I'm prone to show up in spaces and say things that maybe will get me in trouble. So we had a meeting with a lawyer three weeks ago. He's like, please tell me what to do if my wife gets arrested or if something happens to a neighbor or he's just prepared our community block club emails and texts and signal threads. We have rapid response ready things that are rapid response. So it's like, Hey, where do you see something? I see this is the license plate. Here's a video. I saw just even informing people and praying alongside of one another.(40:29):So we have this group of pastors we gather called Pastors Rabbis and Imams called Faith Over Fear. And so in this group, someone posted like, look at Ice was heavily in our neighborhood. They said arrests that were made or the people that were detained. This is the situation, let people know. So we're just letting people know this is what's happening. Teaching people to use their phones to record everything and anything they can always being ready to show up. So I'm the type of neighbor that would anyway, if I would see law enforcement pulling over a young black or brown man, I would pull the car over and I would get out of my car and I would say, hi, I am Reverend Sandra and I'm here. I live down the street. I'm wondering if everything's okay. Here is everything. And the reason is just to show them that I'm watching. They said, no, everything's fine. I said, okay, I'm just going to sit in my car. Let me know if you need something because I'm letting them know that I'm watching.(41:37):And so I think part of it is the accountability of a community. And I love to see the walking school buses, the ride shares that parents are doing the grocery dropoffs because you can't stand in the food pantry line anymore. The GoFundMe's for particular legal fees, the trying to utilize your networks to find out if you can figure out what district or what holding location you, your loved one would be in offering mental health services. Like, Hey, here are the three organizations that do group therapy or circles or there's going to be a meditation and yoga thing offered at this center. A lot of them have a lot of embodied practices too. So I think those things are great. But yeah, we still have to, we're still living life. We're still submitting book reports for school, we're still having birthday parties and christenings, we're we still black and brown communities have been living through trauma for so long, they can't stop living.(42:53):So the question is how do we invite one another to more wholeness in our living, within our own communities, and then how do we help one another? This is affecting everybody. It's affecting not only Latino communities and not only Asian immigrant communities, but it's also affecting black communities because there's more enforcement and they're not more law enforcement and they're not necessarily targeting black communities, but where there are brown communities, sometimes there are black folks also. And so it's impacting them in just the militarization of our city. I mean, everywhere you go, there's just people marching with weapons and it could be Michigan Avenue in the shopping area downtown near the Bean, or it could be in our communities. And so I think how people are trying to, I think a city like Chicago, because it's got such a rich tradition of community organizing and community development and advocacy, I think it's very set up for what can I do in my world for my neighbors?(44:08):And then for those of you that aren't in Chicago, I think knowing which organizations are doing fantastic things, I think that's really helpful. Within the faith and justice space, I think organizations like New Life Centers that are kind of spearheading some of the new neighbors initiatives already, but they're doing this whole care system for, they're already new neighbors from Venezuela, Ecuador, and Central America who are now more vulnerable. And so they have systems in place for that. There are organizations live free Illinois who are doing more of the advocacy, raising awareness stuff. I can give you a couple, I can put in the show notes, but I think there's organizations that are doing fantastic work. Some people are just, I have a friend who's in Houston who's just like, there's a refugee family who's vulnerable right now and I need to take them groceries. Who wants to give Venmo?(45:06):Me? I think you have to trust your friends aren't going to go out for a nice rooftop beverage and 300, $400 later. Then there's groceries for this. So it's like you may not know anyone, but you may know someone who knows someone who's vulnerable. And so maybe you just are giving money to, or maybe you, I've had people send me money and be like, Hey, maybe someone who needs something. And I'm like, great. And we little, we put it cash and we put it in our car and when we need it, we help a neighbor who's in need. I think I'm calling our friends to, another one I thought of was calling our friend, inviting our friends to action. So sometimes I don't think it's that we don't want to do anything or that we're unwilling to do something. It's that we just feel so stunned. So that news that came out this week in Houston about the 15-year-old autistic boy who was taken by ICE and who has the capacity of a 4-year-old, and I was thinking about him all day long. So I just started pinging all of my friends in Houston and Austin and Dallas. I was like, anybody in Texas? I have a lot of friends in Texas. I'm like, not just, Hey Texas, do something directly. Sending it to them and saying, what have you done?(46:28):Is there a number you can call? Can you gather your small group? They're always asking, I don't know what to do. I don't know what to, I'm like, so I was like, I have something for you to do, and it's in Texas. I'm like, do you know what's happened to this kid? Is he back at home? Can you do something? Is there a GoFundMe for the parents? So I think when we're activated in small things, we develop the discipline of just being activated in general. So it's like if there's a thing that somebody invites you to give to and you give to it, then you get into the practice of giving.(47:06):If you don't start well, then where is it going to happen? So we're thinking right now, I dunno about you guys, but there's nothing in me that wants to do anything fancy right now. I rest for sure. We went to Michigan, we walked around, we took hikes. It was great. It was super free because we stayed with a friend. But there's nothing in me that's like, let me just plan a fancy vacation right now. It's not in me. And I think part of it is, it's almost like a detoxing from an American consumeristic way of seeing celebration and rests. I don't need fancy things to have rest. I don't need, doesn't have to be expensive. I don't know who came up with this. And I think it's a sensibility in us right now, and I've talked to a couple of friends about it, but it's like it's a sensibility in us that feels like it's really tone deaf to start spending a whole lot of money right now when there are so many needs in the world. And no, we can't give away our whole salaries, but we might be able to give more. For example, I don't think our friend should be saying, Hey, my son can't go to college this year. He needs $6,000. I think somebody in our friend groups could be like, actually, I am getting a bonus of $12,000. I'm going to give you three. We should be able to do that for those of us that have access.(48:27):And there are many people who have access, many other people who think they don't have money, but they do. And I think if we invite each other to say, Hey, I want to give to this person's legal fees, or I want to give to this person's college fund, or I want to give to will you give with me? And we are practicing then the kind of mutual aid that's collective that I know our grandparents did for the Latino culture, it's like the RIA system where y'all put the money in every month and every Monday the month. So it's like Koreans do it too. It's like everybody gives a hundred dollars a month and all goes into this pile and every month that pile of money moves around. So it's like our way of providing, I think there's a lot more we could be doing with our money that would give integrity to our voice. And I see a lot of talking and not a lot of sharing.Danielle (49:34):It's so true. It's a lot of talking and it's like, I think we have to get over that old white supremacy norm. If you see somebody on the street, you got to buy them food. You can't ever give them cash. That story rings through my mind as a child and just sometimes you just got to load up the cash, send someone cash for dinner and send someone cash for, I don't know, whatever they need, a bus fare or an airplane ticket or find the miles in your community if someone needs to fly somewhere. Just all these things you're talking about, we kind of have to just get over the hump and just say, Hey, people need help. Let's just go help.Sandra (50:12):And for some of us, I think it's particularly of those of us within our community that are no longer congregating at a local church. I don't know. Did you think the tithe justI think the call to generosity is still there. Whether you want to call your church a local formal traditional church or not, I would hate, I would've hated in our season that we were churchless to have stopped giving out would've been a significant amount of money that would've stopped going out. We still got salaries that year. Well, at least Carl did. Carl got a salary. So I'm like that invitation to generosity, at least at the bare minimum, at the bare minimum, 10% at the bare minimum that should be going out. And so the question is, what did all of us that left churches do with our 10% not to be legalistic because really we should be giving more. The question is, what am I allowed to keep? And for people making six figures, you need to be asking yourselves, why do you need six figures if you don't? Because most of the people, even in places like Seattle and Chicago, are living off of $50,000 a year. So I think as much as we need to ask our government to do well and be integrous in their budget, I think we need to think about that as a place of, and I say that not because I think it's going to solve the problems in Chicago, but I think that money does actually sharing does actually help some people. They haven't eaten.(52:06):They just haven't eaten. We know families whose kids don't eat.Jenny (52:19):Just thank you. It's been really important and meaningful to have your voice and your call to action and to community. I don't take lightly sharing your story and how it's specifically showing up in your community and in your own body and in your own mothering. So thank you for speaking to how you are practicing resilience and how we can think more about how to practice that collectively. It's been really, really good to be here. I am sorry I have to jump off, but thank you Danielle. I'll see you all soon.Sandra (53:23):Yeah, I mean even if you were to think about, you may not be able to provide for anyone, but is there someone in your ecosystem, in your friend group that could really use four sessions of therapy that doesn't have the finances to do so? Or that could really use sessions of acupuncture or massage therapy that doesn't have the money for it, it doesn't have insurance, and of someone who's willing to work with you on that as far as providing that for them. So I think even at that level, it's like if we had to put ourselves in someone else's shoes and say, well, what I want for someone, how would I want for someone to help me without me asking them? I think that is the biggest thing is we cannot, I don't believe we can rely on a person's ability to say what they need.(54:27):I mean, you've had stuff happen in your life. I've had health issues in my own family and problems with my family, and when people are like, oh, how can I help? I'm like, I can't think about that right now. But if a plant shows up at my house that is bringing me joy. Someone just sent me a prayer plant the other day. It's literally called a red prayer plant or something. I was like, yes, I love this. Or if someone buys dinner for my family so I don't have to cook for them, I can't stand up right now. Or if someone said, looks in on me and says, Hey, I know you guys can't be out and about much, so I just wanted to give you some funding for a streaming service. Here you go. Whatever they use it for, that's up to them. But I think to let someone know that you're thinking about them, I think is easy to do with baking something for them, sharing something with them, taking their kids for a few hours.(55:31):Because what if they just need a break from their children and maybe you could just watch their kids for a little bit, pick them up, take them to your house, watch them for a little bit. So I think there are ways that we can practically help each other that again, will make a world of difference to the person that's there next to you. And as always, calling your senators, writing letters, joining in on different campaigns that organizations are doing for around advocacy, checking in with your local city officials and your parent teacher and your schools, and figuring out what are we doing for the kids in our school even to be informed as a neighbor, what is it that our school's doing to protect our families and children? I think those are all good questions that we should always be doing and praying for people and praying specifically. We do that as a family. I think sometimes I don't know what else to do, but to say God to help.Danielle (56:35):Yeah, I mean, I have to go now, but I do think that's kind of key is not that God isn't going to intervene at some point practically, I think we are that active prayer answer for other people we're that answer. I'm not saying we're God, but we're the right. Yeah. Yeah. And just to step into that, be that answer, step into loving when it says, love your neighbor actually doing it and actually showing up and maybe loving your neighbor isn't bringing them dinner. Maybe it's just sitting down and listening to how their day went. Maybe you're not a therapist, maybe you're just a friend. Maybe you're just a community member, but you can sit in and you can hear how rough it was for that day and not take up your own space emotionally, but just be there to listen and then give them a hug and hang or leave. There's a lot of ways to show up and yeah, I'm challenged and want to do this more, so thank you. You'reSandra (57:36):Welcome. Thanks for having me.  Well, first I guess I would have to believe that there was or is an actual political dialogue taking place that I could potentially be a part of. And honestly, I'm not sure that I believe that.

Lady, if you'll remember in season 27, episode 8, Dr. Dom and Terri broke down the truth about feedback. It is, indeed, a gift but it requires nuance, timing, respect, and care. It is a critical piece in building intimacy in relationships and establishing a baseline of respect. So, how do you build a toolkit that is resilient enough to make your own while being flexible enough to appropriately adapt to the situation at hand?Tune in for five actionable strategies about how to give feedback that is constructive. Terri and Dr. Dom not only offer food for thought but also varied scenarios where having these conversations can get tricky. Tune into the Aftershow for more examples of how providing constructive feedback can be important in the development of long-term relationships. Whether it be with your littles or with your elders, feedback is a gift. How you choose to wrap it, the presentation of the feedback, matters a great deal in how it is received. Lady, we want to start a dialogue. Our healing is essential to being the light we need during these times. Let's grow together – join us in Patreon where you can connect directly with Dr. Dom, Terri, and the rest of our beautiful community. We share resources and our own personal journeys so that we can learn from one another. In the event that you need additional support, check-in with Dr. Dom for a free 15-minute consultation. Consider it a great first step towards your holistic wellness. And, if you've got your mental and emotional house in order but want to take your professional career to the next level and want the skills, including giving and receiving feedback, book a 1-on-1 session with Terri. Her expert coaching will ready you for any situation that arises in your professional life.Quote of the Day:"Feedback is a gift — and it's okay to unwrap it slowly." – Unknown  Goal Map Like a Pro WorkbookCultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Resources:Dr. Dom's Therapy PracticeBranding with TerriMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology TodayTherapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.

Hey lady! We know you've been doing the work. The real, soul-transformative work that opens your world to new possibilities and brighter days. We're so proud of you for making a commitment to yourself to be a better you for YOU. But, the truth is that healing does not happen in a vacuum and some of the most powerful healing happens in community. What does that mean? In short, it's time to step out of your cocoon so that you can step into your power and purpose.One of the most powerful skills in allowing community to see you, support, and help you grow to your highest potential is skillful vulnerability. We name vulnerability as a skill rather than a tool because it takes learned practice and developed discernment to use it authentically, but baby when it settles in your system you build a level of self-trust that allows you to engage with people and situations with grace and awareness that offers a true richness in life.So, are you ready to expand your capacity for real, genuine, human interactions and cultivate the life of your dreams? Tap in. Dr. Dom and Terri offer a grounded perspective of ways to increase vulnerability and signs that a certain person may not be deserving of your intimate space. As with all things pack your self-compassion and self-forgiveness as you enjoy the ride but be sure to make room for all of the beauty life has to offer when you let the real you shine.If you haven't heard it today, we love you for real lady! Quote of the Day:"Being a Strong Black Woman doesn't mean that you can't be vulnerable. It's okay to cry. It's okay if you're having a bad day. It's okay if some days you feel like giving up. It's okay if you need to ask for help." – Stephanie Lahart  Goal Map Like a Pro WorkbookCultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Resources:Dr. Dom's Therapy PracticeBranding with TerriMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology TodayTherapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.

In this conversation, trainer and coach Samantha Montpetit-Huynh and Andrea Donsky, a nutritionist, menopause educator, published menopause researcher, and cofounder of wearemorphus.com, discuss perimenopause and menopause, including race, symptoms, stress, GLP‑1s, strength, and how culture shapes experiences in perimenopause and menopause.Highlights:Samantha's experience growing up biracial, coming into her power, and finding her voice in midlife.Women of color experience earlier/more intense symptoms, care gaps, and medical racism.Women who feel unheard can experience increased stress and cortisol levels, which can impact their sleep and lead to weight gain, especially around the belly.Vocabulary that helps us discuss race respectfully and clearly.GLP‑1s are now a part of flashy influencer promos, while it's still unclear what the long‑term health risks are, and why solid lifestyle foundations matter the most.Overtraining in midlife: signs you're doing too much and simple workout modifications to prevent it.The considerable importance of protein + strength, blood sugar management, and how these factors can influence our long-term independence and quality of life.80/20 food approach and ditching guilt because balance beats perfection.Links:Samantha: @samcoretrainerRetreat: Flip Flops & Hot Flashes (Costa Rica) Send us a text ✅ Fill out our surveys: https://bit.ly/4jcVuLh

Hey lady! Do you ever want to take a Jet2Holiday somewhere far, far away from here? Look around, everyday there is a new reason to want to leave the United States and start fresh somewhere else. That's why Terri and Dr. Dom welcomed Roshida Dowe and Stephanie Perry, co-founders of the ExodUS Summit, an annual virtual summit aimed at helping Black  women clear barriers and blocks to living their best lives abroad.Roshida and Stephanie dive right in and address some of the most pressing issues that Black women face when they consider a major life shift. Can I afford it? Where will I find the services and care I am accustomed to? Is it safe? They offer their unique perspective on how living abroad can actually be life-changing in all of the right ways. Don't believe us? Check out their radiance on Patreon. They are glowing with peace and positivity and want you to find some of your own!Maybe a huge move isn't in the cards for you just yet. Have you considered taking a sabbatical from work to recalibrate and reassess how you want to build this one big, beautiful life of yours? Stephanie and Roshida offer sage wisdom on why being real about your capacity can help you stave off burnout and open up new pathways to self-exploration and self-fulfillment.How?Join them at the upcoming ExodUS Summit being held October 10 – 13, 2025. Use this link to secure your seat at the Summit! Holla at us on Instagram lady. If you are thinking about a move, where are you headed to?Quote of the Day:"Money shouldn't be the reason you stay."– Roshida Dowe and Stephanie Perry  Goal Map Like a Pro WorkbookCultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Where to find ExodUS Summit:Website: ExodUS Summit 2025Twitter/X: @exodussummitInstagram: @exodussummitInstagram: @shidadInstagram: @vaycariousYouTube: @StephaniePerry  Resources:Dr. Dom's Therapy PracticeBranding with TerriMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology TodayTherapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.com  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.

How do you even start a business in 2025!? I sat down with my client (and friend) Uchechi Kalu, CFP®, 2024 Olympic Poet to talk about what it really looks like to go from being laid off… to working with over 700 clients, landing contracts with 5 major literary arts organizations, and already hitting 50% of her 2026 revenue goal.Uchechi's layoff story and what it was like to start from zeroWhy starting a business isn't for everyone (and why you probably shouldn't work with me)How integrating your passions makes you stand out, in Uchechi's case, poetry + financial planningWhy she chose to double down on building relationships IRL vs. URL to get her first contractsResources Mentioned:Uchechi's websiteUchechi's LinkedIn and InstagramWhere We Can Connect:Schedule a Business & Career Review call with me to see if it's a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callCheck out our 314 client reviewsFollow the Podcast on AppleFollow the Podcast on SpotifyFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out our other podcasts for Women of ColorFollow, Rate & Review on Apple PodcastsAre you following the WOC & Allies: Business & Career Realtalk podcast? My team and I created this podcast for accessible education for women of color and allies. When you follow the podcast, it lets podcast streaming companies know that this podcast is a podcast fellow women of color and allies should listen to. If you are enjoying the show, I would love it if you would leave me a review on Apple Podcasts. This is one of the best ways to support the show and my team, and it helps other Legacy Leaders find it! Head over to Apple Podcasts to follow, rate and review now!

Hey lady! The weather's cooling down but for some of us that doesn't necessarily mean that your body is lowering the temperature. Why? Because perimenopause is a thing and it's time we talk about it and why it's impacting Black women more and earlier than other women.Friend of the podcast and all-around boss babe, Dr. Janet Williams, a Los Angeles-based OB/GYN and author of Why Don't I Like Sex Anymore? The Grown Woman's Guide to Getting Your Groove Back and Claiming Your Truth joins Dr. Dom and Terri to get real about a natural station in life for every cis-gendered woman. You may remember the many jewels she dropped in season 25, episode 5 urging women to take more ownership in their intimate pleasure. She's now back to arm Black women with the information they need during one of the most significant changes in life. Once considered the marker of old age it is now a signifier of the strength and beauty that exists in aging. But, before you rise in your feminine power there are some things to know to make the journey smoother…and less sweaty.Dr. Janet not only provides a clear definition of what menopause, perimenopause and post-menopause are but also break down what is happening in the body and provide specific markers you can use as a guide to help you inform yourself about where you are on the journey. Dr. Janet uses her expertise to offer guidance on treatments like hormone replacement therapy, demystifies the sometimes-inexplicable changes happening in the body, and clears up myths and confusion around proper supplementation to ease some of the uncomfortable symptoms that occur during each phase.Lady, you already know where to go to get your level-up journal (Patreon), but there's more on Patreon as well. Get behind-the-scenes dialogue and maybe even a few bloopers so you can see the real side of Terri and Dr. Dom. And, if you want to hear all of Dr. Janet's gems without interruption, consider becoming a subscriber on Apple Podcasts for an ad-free listening experience. Lady, we want to hear from you! Holla at us in Patreon and let us know what stood out to you in this episode.Quote of the Day:"You're not superwoman. Stop powering through." – Dr. Janet Williams  Goal Map Like a Pro WorkbookCultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Where to find Dr. Janet Williams:Website: Good Groove CoachBook: Why Don't I Like Sex Anymore?: The Grown Woman's Guide to Getting Your Groove Back and Claiming Your TruthInstagram: @goodgroovecoFacebook: Good Groove Company  Resources:Dr. Dom's Therapy PracticeBranding with TerriMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology TodayTherapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.

Hey lady! How are you doing? We mean really doing? We know it can be hard to admit that you may be feeling an overwhelming mix of emotions as we deal with the current chaos in the world. That's why, this week, Terri and Dr. Dom discuss the healing power of vulnerability and how when used with discernment can help you cultivate intimate and meaningful relationships that can help you ride through turbulent times with grace and joy.We know many of you are spending your September being locked in so that the seeds you plant in you fourth quarter will yield a fruitful 2026, but we want you to take a pause and check in with your internal state. Are you watering yourself in ways that feel nourishing? It is evident that we're going to need each other as the uncertainty increases. Are you developing community so that in the event you need help you have a level of established trust to lean in or give help when needed? Lady, this episode lays the background of how to access vulnerability skillfully. In part two, Dr. Dom and Terri offer the actionable insights to make vulnerability an authentic practice for you. Doing so not only benefits your relationships but everyone you come in contact with because you can walk assuredly that you operate from integrity. We're here for you, lady! Take a look at the resources listed below for additional support. And, if you want to heal in community be sure to join Dr. Dom September 21 for a live virtual session. She's hosting a circle for Black women to pour into each other and uplift each other in community. Come get free with like hearted women who intend to shine their light brightly no matter the circumstance. Register here and we'll see you there!Quote of the Day:"Being a strong Black woman doesn't mean that you can't be vulnerable. It's okay to cry. It's okay if you're having a bad day. It's okay if some days you feel like giving up. It's okay if you need to ask for help." – Stephanie Lahart  Goal Map Like a Pro WorkbookCultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Resources:Dr. Dom's Therapy PracticeBranding with TerriMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology TodayTherapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.

Do you remember when the American Psychological Association came at us in 2023 and declared that middle age starts at 35? The absolute disrespect…In this episode, I'm talking about the conversations I've been having with so many of my clients that I've also been going through myself. Maybe you're feeling like:“I'm done giving 100%—even my 20% is what most people call their 100.”“I don't need another title bump. I just want to embrace enough.”“I can't deal with the gaslighting in this industry anymore.”…then you're not alone.Here's what I dive into:Why so many of us, especially women of color, are redefining success as spaciousness, rest, health, and deep relationships, not just more titles.How your ambition doesn't go away, it evolves depending on your age and stage in life. What to think about if you want more creativity, flexibility, or even to start your own business.How gaslighting in the workplace affects your nervous system, your relationships, and your sense of safety. And how to protect yourself emotionally, mentally, and legally.Why embracing “enough” isn't failure, it's freedom.Resources I Mentioned:Episode 63: How to Change Career Successfully with Ava | Spotify | AppleEpisode 79: What is Psychological Safety at Work with Chela Gage | Spotify | AppleEpisode 90: How to Start Your Business and Get Your First Paying Clients | Spotify | AppleWhere We Can Connect:Schedule a Business & Career Review call with me to see if it's a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callRead my 300+ client reviews on GoogleFollow the Podcast on AppleFollow the Podcast on SpotifyFollow me on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with me on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out my other podcasts for Women of Color

In this week's episode of Yo Quiero Dinero, Jannese sits down with economist, author, and changemaker Anna Gifty to unpack the hidden costs women of color face in every stage of life — what Anna calls “The Double Tax.”From beauty standards and career hurdles to childbirth, caregiving, homeownership, and even retirement, Anna breaks down how racism and sexism compound to leave women of color overcharged and underpaid — and what we can do about it.You'll hear:[05:00] Anna's personal story of navigating wealth gaps from childhood through academia[20:00] The shocking reality of how inequality shows up in parenting, childbirth, and childcare costs[29:00] How empathy reshaped Anna's perspective on her own family — and why men must read this book too[32:00] Why retirement hits women of color harder — and the data that proves it[44:00] Practical steps you can take — individually and collectively — to close the gapAnna reminds us that we're not imagining the struggle, and we're not alone in it. With empathy, community, and action, we can begin to dismantle the structures that hold us back.

In the past three months, more than 300,000 Black women have left the labor force. Economist and author Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman calls this the double tax—the compounded burden of being both a woman and a person of color in an economy designed to take more and give less. From higher prices for haircare and beauty products, to childcare that consumes a larger share of income, to systemic barriers in jobs, salaries, housing, and wealth—these hidden costs fall on women of color across the board. But for Black women, they are especially stark, leaving them with fewer opportunities, lower pay, higher living costs, and far less generational wealth than their white counterparts. Her groundbreaking book, The Double Tax: How Women of Color Are Overcharged and Underpaid, shows how these inequities aren't incidental—they're structural. And unless they're confronted, everyone pays the price. (00:01) The Double Tax on Black Women Black women's "double tax" in labor force discussed with author Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman, emphasizing solutions and self-advocacy. (07:06) Cost of Hair Emotional and Financial Perceived progress in racial equality, false sense of progress, hair burdens for Black women, generational trauma and societal expectations. (13:58) Navigating Beauty Standards as Black Women Growing up in predominantly Black and white educational environments, facing anti-Blackness and challenges in PWIs, finding representation and redefining beauty standards. (22:01) The Double Tax on Beauty Standards Representation and accessibility in the beauty industry for Black and Asian American women, highlighting the "double tax" and need for inclusive representation. (34:03) The Double Tax in the Workplace Legislation is needed to combat hair discrimination in the workplace, along with addressing white beauty standards and the "double tax" faced by Black professionals. (41:41) Power Dynamics and Motherhood Impact Proximity to power is unequal among races and genders, with white men dominating top professions and Black women facing the most barriers. (47:11) The Burden of Motherhood Motherhood's financial burden, childcare costs, Black women as breadwinners, and the impact of technology on education and employment. (01:01:19) The Cost of Womanhood Empowering women at all stages, advocating for oneself, and the cost of womanhood are discussed in a heartfelt chapter. #DoubleTax Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey lady! This week Dr. Dom and Terri are thrilled to welcome a legend who needs no introduction. Misty Copeland is known around the world as not only as a trailblazer and groundbreaking ballet dancer, most notably as the first African American female Principal Dancer with the prestigious American Ballet Theater, but also philanthropist, author, and mother. She joins Terri and Dr. Dom to discuss her upcoming final bow with the theater after a storied career and her plans for her exciting next chapter.Copeland's introducing the latest installment of her Bunheads, Act 2: the Dance of Courage, a picture book series offering a realistic and fun view of dance life. The series' characters embark on wonderous tales of adventure and this latest addition to the series follows them as they learn about the glorious tale of Don Quixote. By the end of the episode you'll want to grab a copy for the young dancers in your life.And, lady, Misty gives us a peek into her life that you can only catch on Patreon. Girl, are you on Patreon yet? It's our special area where we dive deeper and give behind the scenes of how we create this podcast and other cool things you won't want to miss. Join us! Quote of the Day:"I'll always be committed to opening doors, creating space, and making ballet a place where everyone belongs." – Misty Copeland  Goal Map Like a Pro WorkbookCultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Where to find Misty Copeland:Website: Misty CopelandBook: Bunheads, Act 2: The Dance of CourageTwitter: @mistyonpointeInstagram: @mistyonpointeFacebook: Misty CopelandYouTube: @MistyCopelandLifeInMotion  Resources:Dr. Dom's Therapy PracticeBranding with TerriMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology Today  Therapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.

  Join us for an empowering conversation with Cynthia Pong, the award-winning founder of Embrace Change. A Forbes contributor and LinkedIn Top Voice, Cynthia is a leading expert on career advancement for women of color. Her award-winning work has been featured in HBR, Forbes, The Atlantic, and on major networks like NBC, CBS, and NPR. Her book, Don't Stay in Your Lane: The Career Change Guide for Women of Color, is a must-read for anyone seeking to advance their career.  In this episode, we dive deep into how to navigate systemic barriers, leverage your unique strengths, and build a career that truly empowers you. Key Takeaways: Navigating systemic racism and barriers women of color face. Understanding how the "Model Minority" Myth to pit people of color against each other. Managing economic realities in a world of tariffs and AI. Creating visibility and a personal brand. Having agency in your career by telling your story. Setting healthy boundaries and protecting your energy to thrive in challenging times. Connect with us: Learn more about Cynthia Pong at http://embracechange.nyc/, https://www.forbes.com/sites/cynthiapong/, and https://www.embracechange.nyc/ec-collective. Follow Samorn on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/samornselim/. Get a copy of Samorn's book, Career Unicorns™ 90-Day 5-Minute Gratitude Journal: An Easy & Proven Way To Cultivate Mindfulness, Beat Burnout & Find Career Joy, at https://tinyurl.com/49xdxrz8.  Schedule a free 30-minute build your dream career consult by sending a message at www.careerunicorns.com.   

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Charisse M. Williams.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Charisse M. Williams.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Charisse M. Williams.

Hey lady! We don't know about you but right now we are deep in a season of designing our lives with care and intention, which is why it's only right that we welcome Dominique B. Fluker, nationally recognized multimedia journalist, lifestyle expert and editor, content marketer, moderator, and interior design storyteller based in Los Angeles. She stops by Cultivating H.E.R. Space to offer gems on how to create a style authentic to you and based on the beautiful life story you have to share.Dominique built a career centered around powerful storytelling. Whether its deep diving through the archives of Essence magazine to chronicle how Black women discuss sex or offering a tender retrospective for the 20th anniversary of the devastation Hurricane Katrina left in her wake; Dominique has dedicated her life to perfecting her craft telling the stories of our community. Now, she's translating her storytelling with her interior design firm DBF Interiors. She uses her keen eye for detail and weaving together the unsuspecting elements that lie beneath the surface of her clients to provide a bold statement of who they are.Tune in for Dominque's powerful testimony of how she let her journey with both grief and impressive achievement allow her to be open to the splendor life has to offer each one of us if we let it. Dominique also offers her version of what the continuous work of holistic healing looks like for her and how she's using all of the tools available to her to be her whole self. Tap in! Quote of the Day:"I'm committed to uplifting Black women through words and exploration of difficult but necessary topics." – Dominique B. Fluker  Goal Map Like a Pro WorkbookCultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Where to find Dominique B. Fluker:Website: Dominique B. FlukerWebsite: DBF InteriorsInstagram: @dominiquebflukerInstagram: @dbf_interiorsLinkedIn: Dominique B. FlukerLinkedIn: DBF InteriorsResources:Dr. Dom's Therapy PracticeBranding with TerriMelanin and Mental Health Therapy for Black Girls Psychology TodayTherapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.

What We Cover in This Episode: My turning point internship story that taught me doing great work isn't enough—you also need to understand workplace culture, politics, and unspoken power dynamics.How to deal with workplace politics without being dirtyHow emotional intelligence (EI) drives leadership success research shows it outperforms technical skills and IQ.The four trauma responses (fight, flight, fawn, freeze) at work and practical scripts to stay calm in high-stakes conversations.How to integrate AI tools with EI for preparing succinct emails, role-playing conversations, and influencing decision-makers authentically.Resources Mentioned:Episode 99: How to Develop Executive Presence & Own the Room You're In (My Talk from NextUp Summit). You can listen on Apple or SpotifyWhere We Can Connect:Schedule a Business & Career Review call with me to see if it's a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callCheck out our 320+ client reviews on GoogleFollow the Podcast on AppleFollow the Podcast on SpotifyFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out our other podcasts for Women of Color

This Friends Like Us, host Marina Franklin talks with Hollie Harper and Chanel Ali about Chanel's new solo show 'Relative Stranger'! They dive deep into her story of triumph over adversity. Tune into today's podcast to hear her inspiring journey and get your tickets to see the show! You know Chanel Ali from Netflix's Dash and Lily or her time on MTV's Girl Code. Originally from Philly, her storyteller-like style and commanding stage presence allowed her to conquer the NYC comedy scene as a crowd favorite. She boasts two Comedy Central specials, an album, and the fact that she drinks way more than you. Her new Solo show, Relative Stranger is playing at the Soho House from Sept. 17th - 28th. Hollie Harper is a comedy nerd from South Jersey. She is currently the creator and co-exec producer of Hella Late! with Hollie Harper on BRIC TV and a co-host of the nationally trending Twitter Storytelling Chat “BlerdDating.” Hella Late! with Hollie Harper was recently in the 2021 NYC Web Fest where she was nominated as Best Actress. Hollie was a semi-finalist in the 2019 NBC Standup Competition and has been featured on NY1, and in Black Enterprise Magazine, Thrive Global, Confessional Magazine and Black San Diego Magazine. Her popular sketch comedy show AMERICAN CANDY has played the Comic Strip, Gotham Comedy Club, BAM Café as well as the Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival. Time Out Chicago named them one of the five groups to watch. Hollie is a regular host for West Side Comedy Club in NYC and works with Gold Comedy and Stand Up Girls, two programs that empower young women by teaching them standup comedy. She was recently the talent coordinator and casting for “Blood Lassi” on Spotify, written by Pratima Mani, and moderated the panel for the Emmy Award winning, WOC editing team of Black Lady Sketch Show for The Black TV and Film Collective. She is also the Creative Consultant for the very successful Black Women in Comedy Laff Fest. Always hosted by Marina Franklin - One Hour Comedy Special: Single Black Female ( Amazon Prime, CW Network), TBS's The Last O.G, Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, Hysterical on FX, The Movie Trainwreck, Louie Season V, The Jim Gaffigan Show, Conan O'Brien, Stephen Colbert, HBO's Crashing, and The Breaks with Michelle Wolf. Writer for HBO's 'Divorce' and the new Tracy Morgan show on Paramount Plus: 'Crutch'.

This episode of Perimenopause: Head to Toe features Dr. Sameena Rahman, an OB-GYN and specialist in sexual medicine and menopause. She is also the founder of the GYN and Sexual Medicine CollectiveDr. Rahman highlights that women in their mid-40s often experience confusing bodily changes. Symptoms include: Menstrual Changes: Unpredictable periods, with some becoming heavier or stopping for months. Physical & Emotional Symptoms: Intimate dryness, reduced libido, sleep issues, hot flashes, brain fog, and irritability.Systemic Issues in Women's HealthcareThe conversation addresses challenges within the medical system. A Patriarchal System: The doctors agree that the healthcare system is historically patriarchal, resulting in a lack of research and understanding of women's health. Medical Training Gap: The doctors note that medical school training often overlooks the significant emotional and cognitive effects of perimenopause, focusing instead on hot flashes and irregular periods. The "Double Whammy": They point out that because the OB-GYN field is largely female, there's an unspoken expectation to manage all aspects of women's health with limited resources, leading to provider burnout and inadequate patient care.Cultural Differences and BiasDr. Rahman, who is South Asian, discusses unique challenges for women of color. Earlier Onset: Women of color, including Black and South Asian women, often experience perimenopause and menopause earlier. This is linked to allostatic load, the cumulative "wear and tear" from chronic stress. Stigma: Cultural factors like stoicism and taboos around sex lead to a reluctance to seek medical help. Health Disparities: The episode notes higher rates of heart disease and diabetes in the South Asian population.About Dr. Rahman's Practice and BookDr. Sameena Rahman is a board-certified OB/GYN, sex-med gynecologist, menopause specialist and a clinical assistant professor of OB/GYN at the Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine. She is the founder of the Gyn & Sexual Medicine Collective, a successful concierge practice that emphasizes evidence-based medicine and an affiliate of Ms. Medicine. Dr. Rahman is dedicated to evaluating and treating each patient with compassion, trauma-informed care, and an awareness of personal bias. Additionally, she hosts the podcast Gyno Girl Presents: Sex, Drugs & Hormones.Her upcoming book, "Brown Girls Disease? A Guide to Sexual Health and Empowerment Through a South Asian Lens," explores sexual health issues from a unique cultural and religious perspective.

Sharon Fong Mo is joined by Dr. Froswa' Booker-Drew to discuss her new book Front Porch Wisdom. They reflect on the challenges and beauty of being a woman of color in a leadership position. They also share about the importance of relationships, both in leadership and in life. Get Front Porch Wisdom wherever books are sold and read an excerpt on the CCDA blog. Learn more about the Women of Color Network at ccda.org/woc.Dr. Froswa's ripple effect stands out in the realm of cultural transformation. Her role as a network weaver emphasizes the importance of belonging and purpose in corporate, nonprofit, philanthropic, and government settings. By bridging the gap between grassroots nonprofits and institutions, she builds social capital, creates avenues for collaboration, and scales impactful initiatives. She is the President/CEO of Soulstice Consultancy, founder of the Reconciliation and Restoration Foundation, author of 5 books, including the award-winning Empowering Charity:  A New Narrative of Philanthropy, and her newly released book, Front Porch Wisdom: Navigating Leadership Pressures and Barriers as a Woman of Color by InterVarsity Press. Froswa' is an adjunct professor at Tulane University in the Master's of Public Administration program and a research affiliate at Antioch University.  Sharon is a strategic communications expert and network weaver who specializes in helping businesses, nonprofits, and churches improve their communication systems and launch new initiatives. With a passion for connecting people and fostering collaborative engagement, she has been instrumental in launching regional business and faith collaborative networks across Southern California, New Orleans, and Portland, Oregon, working alongside faith communities, nonprofits, and government programs. Her expertise extends to redemptive technology design, helping organizations leverage digital tools in ways that restore human dignity and strengthen communities. Her track record of turning communication barriers into bridges has established Sharon as an influential voice in community development and economic empowerment, equally effective in mentoring emerging leaders and advising seasoned executives. She co-leads the Women of Color Network at CCDA.Connect with CCDA on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Follow CCDA on YouTube.

Dr. Fatima Daoud is a board-certified obstetrician/gynecologist and the first OBGYN guest on Doctor's Inn. Dr. Daoud is a clinical assistant professor at Stony Brook University and a widely recognized voice in women's health—featured on Buzzfeed, Cosmopolitan, The Washington Post, Teen Vogue, and more for her advocacy in debunking misinformation and promoting accessible, equitable care.In this episode, we dive into the hidden inequities faced by women of color in pregnancy care, how unconscious biases shape medical training and patient encounters, and the historical roots of discrimination within medical specialties. Dr. Daoud also shares her insights on balancing faith and cultural humility in women's health, navigating the challenges of residency and rotations, and empowering patients with accurate, evidence-based education. Whether you're a medical student, practicing clinician, or simply curious about women's health, this conversation sheds light on the path toward a more inclusive and just future in medicine.Follow Dr. Daoud on Instagram @doctordaoud to learn more about her work, media features, and upcoming projects.If you want to support Doctor's Inn, here are some easy ways:1. Leave a rating! We welcome all feedback!2. Visit our website at www.doctorsinnpodcast.com to gain access to in-depth resources and our YouTube channel at Doctor's Inn Podcast to watch short engaging animated videos3. Follow our socials @doctorsinnpodcast

Hey lady! As many of you know a healing journey is more than face masks and bubble baths. It's a deeply personal cultivation of all of your life's experiences and the tools you've picked up along the way. It's the way you find yourself to wholeness and build a life of meaning and fulfillment and it is hard and cyclical and takes effort. It takes real courage to get into the insides of yourself and choose to grow, but it's possible and it's worth it.This week, Dr. Dom and Terri invite Dr. Raquel Martin, a licensed clinical psychologist and host of the Mind Your Mental podcast, to discuss the rigorous path to living a healed life and the enrichment and reward of finding a path that works for you. Mental health and therapy are buzzy right now but those words are more than a passing fad. Dr. Raquel offers a unique perspective via straight talk to illuminate how people can find a path to mental wellness that feels authentic for them. Sometimes that may be boundaries, sometimes that means finding a mental health professional to work with, but all of the time it requires divorcing our thoughts from the patriarchal and colonial constructs that we use to build our realities. Babygirl, that is neither easy nor is it quick work but it is necessary for lasting change.Wise words were once spoken that it all starts with looking ourselves in the mirror. When we begin to do the tough work of having honest conversations with ourselves, being real about our needs and untangling the deep wounding we have as a people we can begin to see more light in our lives so that we can be the light out in this world. Dr. Raquel may not be accepting clients but if you are ready to amplify your healing with support book a consultation with Dr. Dom or check our resources below for the right option for you! We love you for real, lady. Keep thriving!Quote of the Day:"You deserve rest that actually restores you, not just pauses you." – Dr. Raquel Martin  Goal Map Like a Pro WorkbookCultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Where to find Dr. Raquel Martin:Website: Martin Psychological ServicesPodcast: Mind Your MentalInstagram: @raquelmartinphdLinkedIn: Dr. Raquel Martin, PhD.Facebook: RaquelMartinPhDYouTube: @RaquelMartinPhDTikTok: @raquelmartinphd  Resources:Dr. Dom's Therapy PracticeBranding with TerriMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology TodayTherapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.

Hey lady! This week, Terri and Dr. Dom tackle a potentially touchy topic – feedback, and the equally touchy topic of how to give it and how to receive it. After listening to this episode, you will be armed with tools for your personal toolkit so that you walk through life with grace, class and style.As each day turns the necessity of having a strong community to lean on becomes ever more present. Community isn't a fantasy of make-believe relationships, it's network of relationships built over time through authenticity, communication, skills, and trust. Without those elements living with other humans and their thoughts and behaviors can become difficult. There are strategies you can use when presented with an opportunity to grow via feedback and with practice you can become a person that maintains your sovereignty while being a strong communicator. So, how do you develop and strengthen the muscle of giving and receiving feedback? How does one cultivate a healthy relationship with offering perspective in a way that is constructive and supportive? Dr. Dom and Terri offer a selection of common scenarios with actionable steps in how to engage with the other person skillfully. Knowing how to process feedback and how to implement or disagree is a key step in growing yourself in authenticity and in community. Interested in customizing your toolkit in a way that feels real to you? Head to the Cultivating H.E.R. Space shop and grab a journal and think through your action plan. We'd love to hear from you about how you're going to make receiving feedback a strength of yours. Holla at us in our Patreon and let us know how you handle difficult conversations and constructive criticism. Quote of the Day:"Feedback is a gift — and it's okay to unwrap it slowly." – Unknown  Goal Map Like a Pro Workbook Cultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Resources:Dr. Dom's Therapy PracticeBranding with TerriMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology TodayTherapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.

Hey lady! This week, Terri and Dr. Dom give you a peek behind the curtain of how they leverage consistency to bring you this fresh content each week! In a world full of dreamers, it is the ones who act on those dreams that reap the rewards. Consistency is a tool to help you meet your goals. With repeated, consistent actions it is possible to form the habits that design the life of your dreams. Dr. Dom and Terri offer frameworks and reflection questions to help you gain clarity on what you need to tailor a plan for yourself so you are operating from a place of the best possible outcome instead of perfection. Do you need to automate some of your processes? Have you established a system for yourself? Where is your support and who can you call on when you need some upliftment in your journey? Let this week be a guide to different methods that can help you think through an action plan that will keep your cup full (overfloweth even) because you found what works for your life and your nervous system.Ladies, we know with all of our busy lives and this fast-paced world it takes a bit more thought and intention to get the life you've been dreaming of, but hold on tight to your vision and let this episode inspire you to build the discipline to make it happen! Quote of the Day:"Consistency isn't about perfection...it's about making small, regular efforts over time."– Unknown  Goal Map Like a Pro WorkbookCultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Resources:Dr. Dom's Therapy PracticeBranding with TerriMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology TodayTherapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.

What We Cover in This Episode: Being “the only” in the room, the only woman, the only woman of color, the youngest person, the only one who thinks differently can be both an honor and a heavy responsibility. In this episode, I share how to navigate that experience while still earning respect, making an impact, and opening doors for others to join you at the table.You'll hear:My personal journey of being “the only” from being born, my childhood to adulthoodThe tug-of-war blending in with honoring yourself6 proven strategies to lead confidently as “the only” without burning bridges or betraying yourself.How to be discerning about when to stay quiet, how to identify the right people to build relationships with and why you should take up spaceWhy your presence in the room isn't just about you, it's about representing voices that aren't there yet.Whether you're leading a corporate team, running your own business, or navigating high-stakes rooms, you'll walk away with actionable tools to not just survive as “the only,” but to thrive and influence change.Where We Can Connect:Schedule a Business & Career Review call with me to see if it's a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callCheck out our 314 client reviewsFollow the Podcast on AppleFollow the Podcast on SpotifyFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out our other podcasts for Women of Color

Hey lady! On the road to building the soft life of your dreams you'll need to incorporate systems to keep that soft life moving authentically and with ease. Often, we're taught that lives that feel good and easy come with hard work and while that is one way to do it there are ways to build routines and life processes that make life smooth and add joy. After all life is not about the end goal. The journey matters as much as the destination and to make that journey easier Dr. Dom and Terri have a comprehensive list of actionable strategies you can implement into your life incrementally to create a structure that is manageable and dare we say it, fun?! As with anything, take what you need and discard the rest.You'll want to tune into Patreon for the Aftershow. Terri and Dr. Dom offer seven journal prompts that can help you customize routines that provide soft structure and help you move intentionally towards your best, most fulfilled life of your dreams. Quote of the Day:"When you can and as you can, in ways that feel loving, make time and space for yourself” – Tracee Ellis Ross  Goal Map Like a Pro WorkbookCultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Resources:Dr. Dom's Therapy PracticeBranding with TerriMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology TodayTherapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.

Today on conduct(her) McKenna speaks with Dr. Brittney E. Boykin and Dr. Erika Tazawa about their recent ACDA National Session titled "Shattering Barriers: Empowering Women of Color in Choral Leadership."

Hey lady! Let's be real, life lately has felt like it's on one. Trying to keep up with the pace of life can feel like a never-ending pursuit with no finish line. If life has been landing haymakers and making your cup feel rather empty, Dr. Dom and Terri are here to offer you a warm hug in the form of affirmations. Let these 10 doses of kindness soothe your soul and remind you that tough times don't last always.Affirmations are a powerful tool that need nothing more than an open mind and an open heart to provide comfort and healing. And, once you put them in steady practice they can amplify peace in your life and even transform negative patterns internally. So, lady take the intensity out of your week by grabbing your favorite beverage of choice and getting cozy. Close your eyes and repeat after us. Allow yourself to be deeply held with these simple truths. Lady, we love you for real! Should you want to deepen your affirmation practice be sure to check out Dr. Dom's book of affirmations Daily Affirmations.Quote of the Day:"I am alive and well." – Jhene Aiko  Goal Map Like a Pro WorkbookCultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Resources:Dr. Dom's Therapy PracticeBranding with TerriMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology Today Therapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.

What We Cover in This Episode: The science behind why your brain craves busyness (Answer: dopamine)How I've been rewiring my busyness cravings (& how you can too)What “rest guilt” really means, and how to repattern it especially if you're a first-gen immigrant like me5 questions to help you reconnect with the version of you beyond your job title.Resources Mentioned:Rest is Resistance by Tricia HersheyEpisode 114: My 1st Place Pitch Replay from SCMSDC and how I hit 2024 Revenue in May: You can listen to this 34-minute podcast episode on Apple or SpotifyWhere We Can Connect:Schedule a Business & Career Review call with me to see if it's a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callCheck out our 314 client reviewsFollow the Podcast on AppleFollow the Podcast on SpotifyFollow Elaine on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out our other podcasts for Women of Color

Hey lady! You know the saying, “No one cares because everyone is going through a lot”? Well, that's not true. Over here at Cultivating H.E.R. Space, we care. But we also know that everyone is dealing with something, and not everything needs to be shared. That doesn't mean you need to bottle it all up, though. What do you do when the journal just isn't enough and you're not ready to engage your friends in your business?Terri and Dr. Dom explore the next frontier in this illuminating conversation about the benefits and potential harms of using Artificial Intelligence (AI) as part of your mental and emotional wellness toolbox. There are pros, like when you're up in the wee hours trying to calm an anxious mind or soothe a broken heart. Instead of doom scrolling, talking to your AI buddy can help you process your thoughts in real time without oversharing with people who don't need to know all your business.But, there are points of consideration that you may want to review before you share your darkest secrets or (we know this may be common sense but a friendly reminder) your address and identifying information. The truth is, AI is here to stay. And the sooner you learn to adapt to the technology, the better equipped you'll be to navigate our ever-changing world. So why not find a way to make it work for you? Tune in for practical tips on how to create a healthy, intentional relationship with this emerging technology. Quote of the Day:"The essence of therapy has always been relational, and that cannot be replicated by an algorithm." – Chris Hoff  Goal Map Like a Pro WorkbookCultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Resources:Dr. Dom's Therapy Practice Branding with TerriMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology TodayTherapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.

Hey lady! We're going to cut straight to the chase because we know that your time is probably scheduled down to the minute. Many of us are out here caring for children, caring for aging parents, killing it at work, showing up for your community, trying to take care of yourself and keep the wheels on the train of your life moving forward. The list is long to say the least. And, on top of all of that you are dealing with the unpredictable nature of humans. This week Terri and Dr. Dom discuss an underdiscussed issue in our community. How to care for yourself when caring for someone struggling with their mental health?What do you do when your cup is empty, and you have nothing left to pour? Dr. Dom and Terri offer real talk and real tools to help you navigate challenging times with loved ones. Whether it's your mama, your man, or your best friend—mental health challenges don't just affect the person going through them. They affect everyone close to them. So, go ahead and download and save this episode, lady. Consider it yet another tool in your toolkit to go through life with grace, class, and your own mental health in check. And, if this episode has helped you and you know it will help others why don't you rate us and let us know how much value you found in our perspective. Your support helps bring our show to more people looking for healing! Practical Tips: How to Show Up with Boundaries 1. Validate their experience but don't try to “fix” them2 Learn the basics of their diagnosis (from trusted sources)3. Communicate clearly: “What do you need from me right now?”4. When necessary, create care plans and safety plans5. Leverage professional help (E.g.; Therapy, support groups, and hotlines)Quote of the Day:"Tough love is you creating and keeping healthy boundaries." – Nedra Tawwab  Goal Map Like a Pro WorkbookCultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Resources:Dr. Dom's Therapy PracticeBranding with TerriMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology TodayTherapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.

Lady! We know that not only are we living in interesting, unprecedented times but we're also just living our regular lives and sometimes life be lifin'. Life is beautiful, abundant, and generous but it can also be raggedy, harsh, and tough. As much as we love being a part of the toolkit that helps keep you uplifted, you know that we always keep it real. That's why this week Dr. Dom and Terri offer their grounded perspective about how to handle life when life is being a hot, ghetto mess.Adulting is often fun and wonderful. There are days as an adult when ice cream for breakfast is a thing because you're grown. But, for the days when the laundry is piling up, the bills are due, the internal monologue is putting you through the ringer, the deep pain within is spilling out, you're sick, or you're just tired it's easy to feel overwhelmed and like you're getting it all wrong. Fear not, Terri and Dr. Dom offer ten truth bombs to help you keep everything in perspective as you get up and figure it out – like you always do! Adulting is often described as a series of responsibilities and actions that one takes to be a functioning member of society. But, this week Dr. Dom and Terri remind you that often adulting is finding the tools to complete those mundane tasks to satisfaction when life doesn't feel good. So, grab your Cultivating H.E.R. Space latte mug (find it and more in the Cultivating H.E.R. Space shop), fill it with your favorite cozy beverage, and allow this episode to be the warm hug, kiss on the cheek, or pat on the back for getting through the patches when life feels hard. Lady, no matter what's going on keep your chin up and remember that we're rooting for you! 10 Things to Remember When Adulting Gets Ghetto1. Crying doesn't mean you're losing — It means you're releasing 2. You're not weak — you're carrying a lot right now 3. Just because you're alone doesn't mean you're not supported 4. It's okay to miss people who are no longer in your life 5. Your ancestors would be so proud of you 6. It's normal to grieve the life you thought you'd have by now 7. You are always worthy of love, even when you think you're a mess 8. You're allowed to rest, even If nothing's done 9. Your dream isn't too big — It's just being built on divine timing 10. Everything is going to be okay — even if it doesn't look like it yetQuote of the Day:"Adulting is realizing that you have to take charge of your life, even when it's hard." – Unknown  Goal Map Like a Pro WorkbookCultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Resources:Dr. Dom's Therapy PracticeBranding with TerriMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology TodayTherapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.

Hey lady! Can you feel the transformation in the air? It's all around us and the energy is electric, which is why Dr. Dom and Terri stop by this week with thoughts on the ways you can strengthen your inner resources and stop apologizing for things you don't have any business apologizing for thusly transforming yourself from someone who shrinks to someone who shines. We know many of you are like us, recovering people pleasers feeling your way through life as whole, embodied people. That's why Terri and Dr. Dom want you to feel more comfortable taking up more space and not feel a way about it.The dynamic duo offer seven scenarios where it's ok to stand on business and not apologize in this week's episode and talk through their strategies for building the muscle to be resolute in your position. But, the gems don't stop there. Join us in Patreon (link below) and get the details on the alternatives you can say instead of saying sorry. Lady, you're building a toolkit that'll help you rise from someone who goes along to get along to being in the driver's seat of her life with style, grace and class. Drop us a comment in the Aftershow and let us know any additional tips you would add to the list! Quote of the Day:“We must remember that an apology isn't an apology unless it's meaningful.” – Unknown  Goal Map Like a Pro WorkbookCultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Resources:Dr. Dom's Therapy PracticeBranding with TerriMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology TodayTherapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.

Hey lady! You know we couldn't end June without getting our groove on to celebrate Black Music month! June is the official month for the songs that have enriched our lives in times of sorrow and joy. Black music has been monumental as a soundtrack for many of the liberation movements for our people and as endearing as spending a Saturday morning helping your mom clean up the house. So, this week Terri and Dr. Dom talk about the beauty of Black music and the way music can transport you to spaces where your imagination can run free, your heart can find comfort, and your feet catch the beat. Spaces where you can mourn the breakup and relationship, the loss of a loved one, or the loss of self. Black people have used our music to keep us moving forward, overcoming and thriving and that is worthy of celebrating!Listen all the way through for a fun challenge Dr. Dom and Terri have for you and then join us on Instagram and give us your answer. We're so looking forward to creating a Black music playlist with our community!  Quote of the Day:“Through every generation, Black music has been our healing, our protest, and our celebration all at once.” – Unknown  Goal Map Like a Pro WorkbookCultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Resources:Dr. Dom's Therapy PracticeBranding with TerriMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology Today Therapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Keshia Walker. Founder and chairwoman of the Black Collegiate Gaming Association (BCGA). Here’s a breakdown of the key themes and takeaways:

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Keshia Walker. Founder and chairwoman of the Black Collegiate Gaming Association (BCGA). Here’s a breakdown of the key themes and takeaways:

Hey lady! This week Terri and Dr. Dom pump up the volume and encourage you to do the same as you listen to the fun and inspiring wisdom from Dr. Arlene Gordon-Hollingsworth, co-founder of the uber popular Gracie's Corner, a show dedicated to showing Black kids that learning is fun and something they can be excited about!Arlene and her husband Javoris were inspired to create the energetic, engaging kids YouTube show during the pandemic. They noticed that while they searched for educational programs for their toddler and infant they also needed a form of edutainment for their eldest daughter Gracelyn, the muse and voice actress for her eponymous show. One day Javoris turned to Arlene and let her know he noticed the lack of representation in those shows and wanted to do something about and thus Gracie's Corner was born! The two parents didn't have a huge team or financial backing to get the show off the ground. They just had a deep belief in their mission and desire to figure it out with the tools at their disposal.The dynamic husband and wife team credit the bulk of their success to keeping a focus on the family and maintaining their authenticity. And, supporters have noticed! They've attracted a loyal fanbase that tune into the show in the billions of views. Yes, you read that right, Gracie's Corner has more than a billion views. Thanks to superstar contributors like Snoop, Big Freedia, Charlie Wilson, and Paul Wall the show keeps a fresh perspective on education and entertainment.So, if you have a little person in your life and looking for ways to turn screen time into enjoyable enrichment time, tune in to this week's episode and find the groove that will keep you and your loved one uplifted and singing along with Gracie! Quote of the Day:"Don't you know that you are special?"– Gracie's Corner  Goal Map Like a Pro WorkbookCultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary  Where to find Gracie's Corner:Website: Gracie's CornerYouTube: Gracie's CornerInstagram: @graciescornerTikTok: @graciescornertvTwitter (X): @Gracies_CornerFacebook: Gracie's Corner  Resources:Dr. Dom's Therapy PracticeBranding with TerriMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology TodayTherapy for QPOC  Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cultivating-h-e-r-space-uplifting-conversations-for-the-black-woman--5470036/support.