Press Reset

“Never underestimate the power you have to take your life in a new direction.” 

― Germany Kent 

Hey Beautiful, I would like to introduce you to Zakiyyah Walker. Zakiyyah is a Personal Revolution Coach, Legacy Strategist. She guides high-functioning Black Women through holistic lifestyle transformations. WIth her guidance, Black Women get crystal clear on what they really desire, the habits that are keeping them stagnant and the steps to create the life they want --ON PURPOSE.

• What are some tips on how someone can Create their Own Personal Revolution

• B-side chat: What are some issues you noticed with black women regarding healing from Strong Black Woman Syndrome?

-life: legacy

-love: partner

-business: money 

The featured song is Something New by PJ

Naked Ambition

 Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity.

― Brene Brown

Today I would like to introduce  Model, Poet & Philanthropist De’Anna Liz to the Beauty & Soul Podcast. De’Anna is the CEO/Founder of The Naked Foundation which offers a non-traditional approach through art-based programs, and events that combat self esteem & mental health challenges.

• Share with us what inspired you to start The Naked Foundation

• B-side- Which hurdles did you personally face and how did you overcome them?

• Partnership

• What made you chose the name Naked for your foundation?

• I see you will be launching your online social media campaign can you share more about that?

What comes to your mind when I say the following?

• Life -Together

• Love- Spread 

• Business-Knowledge 

The featured song is Grown Woman by Xavier Omar

Write Paint Heal

“My art is largely made up of my pain; re-framed, redesigned and re-purposed. It's a mutually beneficial experience for both the creator and the beholder. Transformative healing is a beautiful process.” 

― Jaeda DeWalt

I have another beautiful guest on the podcast today Ms. Inita Nicole Callaway.

INC Writes author and life coach Inita Nicole Callaway, is an encourager by nature who uses her pen and voice to impact the lives of women who are currently living in fear.

The Chicago native published her first book back in October 2018 titled I'm Writing My Wrongs, I'm Not Righting My Wrongs available on Amazon. Since released, the thought-provoking novel has touched and healed many women of color who can relate to Inita's past life of insecurities, not being able to look at herself in the mirror, people pleasing, uncertainty and stagnation. She even went as far as designing an intimate women's workshop by the name of "The Write. Paint. Heal. Experience" which focuses on helping women move forward and begin to heal through creative writing, artistry and public speaking.

The featured song is Golden by Jill Scott

Jammin on the One

"You have no control over other people's taste, so focus on staying true to your own." -Tim Gunn

Hello Beautiful friends, I have another lovely guest on the podcast Mrs. Ashley Rouse , Founder and CEO of Trade St. Jam Co. is a chef, woman and minority-owned business that started in a tiny apartment in North Carolina on Trade Street. Personally I have tried her jams and they are amazing!

• what inspired you to start making jam?

• I remember watching your Hustle episode on Viceland and how hesitant you were to leave your 9-5. How scary was it for you to make the leap into full-time entrepreneurship?

• What is it like working with your husband?

The featured song is Love Theory by Kirk Franklin

The Social Soul

“The arts are a critical component of healthcare. Expressive art is a tool to explore, develop and practice creativity as a means to wellness.” ~ Wellarts Association

Today I have another lovely guest Ms. Amber Lane. Amber is the Founder and Executive Director of Knowing Your Worth Inc. 501(c) (3). A non-profit organization established in 2017. Amber has always believed, if she is able to help and change one young girl's life, then her duty was completed. Amber is also the Founder of Social Work Mentoring and Coaching. A mentoring and coaching business established in 2018 for social work college students, social work employees and aspiring social workers.

The featured song is Heal You by Sinead Harnett

She’s Not Going Anywhere, Neither Are You

“Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity and change.”

― Brené Brown

On the latest episode of the Beauty & Soul Podcast we have, Naja Hall, Founder of Blended & Black which is a a solution-based platform dedicated to mending and blending Step families. As a change agent, she has built one of the most recognizable brands in the blended family niche. In under 2 years, the Blended and Black community has grown an organic following of over 50K+. Naja is a Family Life Coach,and the author of , Girl,Bye! She’s Not Going Anywhere. Neither Are You.

Connect with Naja on BlendedandBlack.com

The featured song is I Found My Smile Again by D’Angelo

Beaches & Blessings

“Life is short, and it’s up to you to make it sweet.” – Sadie Delany

Hey Beautiful people I recently took myself on a getaway to literally get away. I needed to give my creativity a jumpstart.  Alone time that is not driven by fear or avoidance but rather the pleasure you experience in solitary activities can inspire your creativity. 

I have a few reasons why: 

• Temporary social disconnection can help you to get lost in your work. When you eliminate distractions and put all of your focus on what you are trying to accomplish you are able to boost your productivity.

• Spending time outdoors with nature can also help you eliminate creative roadblocks.  If you have an idea you can’t figure out how to get from your head, take a break step outside, take a walk, go to the beach, listen to the waves, take everything in.

• Catch a flight and go. Traveling abroad has been proven to help you get your creative juices flowing too. The farther you travel from your home the more creative you become! I know you’re probably saying how girl? Well here you go:

  • Traveling helps you to be open-minded as you meet new people and come across new situations.

  • Traveling helps you to be innovative if you truly immerse yourself in the culture and country you’re visiting. 

  • Traveling also helps to build your self confidence by strengthening your self worth.

I hope if you find yourself stuck in some way you will consider spending some time alone, connecting with nature and/or catching a flight somewhere new.

This episode’s featured song is Holy by Jamila Woods.

Don't Call It A Comeback

"The difference between a broken community and a thriving one is the presence of women who are valued.”― Former First Lady Michelle Obama

Recently I attended the Roadmap to Billions Conference created by the founders of Black Women Talk Tech. On this episode I recap my experience at the Roadmap to Billions Conference while highlighting a few take aways.

There was so much #BlackGirlMagic in the room I couldn’t help but be inspired. What an amazing experience!

Next year the Roadmap to Billions Conference will be in Las Vegas. I can’t wait!

The featured song is Rockets by Lion Babe feat Moe Moks.

Dear Journal

“Before a child talks they sing. Before they write they draw. As soon as they stand they dance. Art is fundamental to human expression. “ - Phylicia Rashad 

Happy February and Happy Black History Month! For the month of February I will feature quotes by some of my favorite artists, writers and creators to shine a little light on their wisdom. 

This podcast episode is about self expression, now self expression can be defined as the expression of one's feelings, thoughts, or ideas, especially in writing, art, music, or dance.

Recently, I stumbled upon one of my journals. Unlike most of my journal entries this one in particular was very important because it was the day I decide to make a major life change.  I expressed how I felt about my upcoming marriage at the time. For once I was honest with myself. I loved that I dated the journal entry and that I was completely open while writing because now 6 years later I can reflect on how far I have come on my journey. 

It’s important to have a place to lay everything out. Singing and writing are my outlets where I can do just that. What are yours? How do you express your thoughts and emotions? Some of us need daily ways to express ourselves to reduce and release the emotional pressure within without worrying about what it all means just yet.  Honesty can be hard to face, even if it means being honest with yourself. 

The featured song is “Rollercoster” by Tank and the Bangas.

Now Playing

“I think music in itself is healing. It’s an explosive expression of humanity. It’s something we are all touched by. No matter what culture we’re from, everyone loves music.” ― Billy Joel

Hi guys, it is almost the end of Jan and I hope all of you have working hard to make 2019 your best year. I know I am, I’m wearing so many hats  right now and it’s all good. One tool I use to stay productive and to help me get through my work week is music. Do you ever notice when you play your favorite uptempo song you’re able to get a lot more done?

Listening to and playing music can make you smarter, happier, healthier and more productive at all stages of life. Music is powerful. When need to be mindful when it comes to what we listen to.

Did you hear we are on Spotify now?! I’m so excited. Now you can hear the Beauty & Soul Podcast everywhere!! To help me help you I created a playlist for us on Spotify so we can Werk It! this year. I know you will enjoy it. Xoxo

The 2018 Wrap Up

“Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” ― Aristotle

Hello friends today is January 1st 2019. Can you believe it? Well I can and am so grateful to be here living another day. While everyone is busy  working on their resolutions for the year I like to take a moment to acknowledge what I accomplished and learned in the previous year.   I started writing my accomplishments down back when I first started the Beauty & Soul Podcast 2 years ago. It’s amazing to see how much we are able to accomplish with a little drive and determination. Now I have to say the purpose of the podcast is to share the B- side of Life, Love, and Business so here’s what I learned: 

Life

Start living.

Recently I started teaching English as a second language to students around the world and I am learning so much about different cultures. I can tell you this no matter if you live in America, Brazil, Turkey, or Africa we all are overcoming similar struggles. We all have a desire to be the best version of ourselves. 

This year I decided to treat myself to my first solo vacation. I’m so excited! I’ve been on the go doing a million things over the past couple years. I am over due for a break. This year do something you’ve never done, step out of the box, and live your life unapologetically. 

Love

 Love doesn’t always come the way you think it will.

In 2018 I received so much love from the people I know were picked to be on my journey with me, yet none of them are romantic relationships and I’m okay with that. I have some of the best friends I could ever ask for. Sometime the person we need is already beside us. 

Business

I learned the importance of saving money, making sure I have multiple streams of income and investing in myself for the future.

I think I’ve been in hibernation mode since January of 2018 and I wouldn’t change a thing. Sometimes it’s important to sit down,  put your head down and get to work.  The older version of yourself will thank you for the sacrifice.

If you’re looking for ways to create multiple streams of income start by looking at yourself. What hidden talents do you have? Just make a plan to set yourself up for success you deserve it.  

You never know where a really great song might take you. 

Featured Song: Jade Novah- All Blue

This year let’s do our best to get to know ourselves and stay focused on what is important to our growth, mind body and soul. Happy New Year and I wish you all peace, love and prosperity.

Mic Check

“Give them everything.” 

― Mark W. Schaefer

Hey friends,

This episode we are talking about creating a podcast. I have received private messages from people asking me how I created my show or what I use to market the Beauty & Soul Podcast so I thought it would be a great idea to help you start your podcast. First of all I love podcasts. Even before I decided to become a podcaster myself I enjoyed listening to different shows for inspiration and insight on various topics. I liked being about to press play while still going about my day. I’m sure if you’re listening to my show you feel the same way. So if you have a message you feel compelled to share podcasting is probably great for you. Plus you can record from the comfort of your home in your pajamas like I’m doing right now lol. 

What software do I use to record?

• Audacity- The program I use to record and edit. I love Audacity one because it is free and super easy for you to navigate. If you’re new to mixing and mastering Audacity will be easy as 1, 2, 3. If you aren’t able to jump on the mic right away and run with the show, I have a YouTube video that will bless your life here.

  What equipment do I use?

• I am a little extra so I have fabulous gold microphone that I purchased from Amazon. I really love this mic one because it’s gold, two it has a stand. I am able to move around freely behind the scenes without feeling trapped behind a headset. Now if you aren’t able to purchase  a freestanding microphone like this one here right now that’s cool use your headphones and mic that comes with your cell. In my first few episodes that’s what I recorded with. You will need a good pair of headphones you find them here. Everything does not need to be perfect it just needs to get done, ya feel me?

  What do I use to market?

• I use many programs/apps but my go-to favs are Canva and Wavve. I use Canva to create all of my show stopping graphics and Wavve to create my audio clips for social media . 

If you have something to say then the world needs to hear it! Don’t forget to subscribe to the Beauty & Soul Podcast on Apple Podcast and leave a review. :)

Stick to the Code

Quote: “Do not bring people in your life who weigh you down. And trust your instincts … good relationships feel good. They feel right. They don’t hurt. They’re not painful. That’s not just with somebody you want to marry, but it’s with the friends that you choose. It’s with the people you surround yourselves with.”― Former First Lady Michelle Obama

This episode I chatted with three beautiful queens who are the authors of the The Bestie Code which will be released very soon. 

This trio of besties tell their brutally honest, hilarious and straight-forward narrative about the art of living by The Bestie Code, 10 fundamental principles of building and maintaining your best friendships, your squad, and girl gang. The book discusses issues with jealousy, being the blunt friend, setting boundaries, friendship expectations, co-existing with spouses, your best friend’s “other” friends and more. I enjoyed our conversation.

Don’t forget to pre-order The Bestie Code today! You can get more information here.

Back to One

“I want every day to be a fresh start on expanding what is possible.” 

― Oprah Winfrey

This is episode 31 titled Back to One.  Recently I stopped everything I was doing so I could take it from the top. Life can be so overwhelming at times with so many deadlines and obligations coming at us left and right. I had to ask myself why am I doing all of this? Seriously am I getting closer to my goals doing the 20 things on my to-do list? The answer was no.  So while I was listening one of my favorite podcasts Redefining Wealth with Patrice Washington, she talked about how it’s okay to un-commit. Ugh, you don’t know how good I felt to hear someone say that. As a people pleasing person I find it really hard to say no to people and opportunities, even if they aren’t in line with my goals. After listening to the Redefining Wealth episode I decided to  write down what is important to me personally and professionally. I learned a few things from this exercise, take a moment to listen.

Featured song is “Moment” by Kyle feat. Wiz Kalifa

Don't Touch My Hair

 “We Don’t go Natural, we return. Natural, is where it began.” 

I’m taking it to the head yes, our hair ladies and gentlemen. I have so much to say regarding black women and natural hair so I thought I would put it on the show. Okay just a little back history on me I’ve been fully natural for 5 years. I say fully because I initially started to transition I  started to become impatient initially and relaxed my hair. I hated it. Then I decided to fully commit. Best decision ever! Today I want to talk about the stigma against natural hair. Some can deny it but it’s definitely present these days on our jobs and even in our homes. 

I will never forget a manager I had once asked me, “How is it that you can learn to manage your daughter's natural hair but can’t manage to handle your own?” The younger naive and less self-aware Shoniqua just brushed the comment off as random girl talk, now I see she was shedding light on an issue I did not know I had. Truthfully it wasn’t until my hairstylist in Atlanta asked me why was I wearing weave? Now you know something is up when your own hairstyling is asking you why are you buying? I remember telling her well I did the big chop and  I don’t like short hair. She then told me to go to the mirror and look at my hair. I went and I amazed at what I saw. I had thick and full luscious hair that I was hiding under color-treated Indian hair. For me, that was the moment when I started to see my hair in a different light. I wonder how many other women are hiding their virgin hair like I once was. 

Sadly, some of the issues we as women have with our hair did not start with us. Till this day my parents still have a negative view towards natural hair. Possibly because their generation was taught to conform instead of embracing their hair in its God-given form. Time Magazine once stated, “As long as black women have existed in America, we have been put down for our skin color, our bodies, and our natural hair. In the 18th Century, British colonists deemed African hair as closer to sheep wool than human hair, setting the precedent that white hair is preferable — or “good,” a racially charged notion in and of itself.” Sadly we’ve been manipulated to believe who we naturally are is not good enough. 

The question now is, “ How can we make the situation better?” My answer is self-discovery and time. I’m so grateful for my former manager and hairstylist for revealing an issue I did not know I had. The more you get to know who you are on the inside, flaws and all the more comfortable you will feel trying new things with your hair, makeup, wardrobe, and overall experiences. Unfortunately, more of the negative views we have regarding ourselves including our hair will take time to repair because it took time to be implanted in us. I will say being other like-minded people has helped me as well get comfortable with my kinks and coils.  Oh yeah btw don’t let anyone just grab and touch your hair just because they’re curious. They should know better. 

Moving Day

“She knew this transition was not about becoming someone better but about finally allowing herself to become who she’d always been.” Anonymous

Super excited to share another solo episode, it's been a minute.  On this episode I talk about some of the challenges I had to overcome pursing my dreams and building my business. It's already been 3 years! OMG. I'm still alive. 

Although my journey may be unique, I hope you are able to get motivated to do the work required to be who you are created to become. It will not be easy but it will be worth it. I wish you all the best. 

The Power of Sisterhood

“There is a special place in hell for women who don't help other women."

― Madeleine K. Albright

Hey, beautiful people today I have a special guest by the name of Latitia Woodard. She is a speaker, author, and founder of A Sister’s Truth. AST is a Sister Coaching business helping women to Discover, Define, and Live their Truth for manifesting a courageous life without limits. I think that is beautiful. 

Check out LaKitia's book here.

The featured song for this episode is "Soul Sista" by Bilal. 

I hope to meet you at the next Beauty & Soul Brunch August 25th. Ticket information is available here.

The Art of Storytelling

“Musicians want to be the loud voice for so many quiet hearts.”- Billy Joel.

This episode I have another special guest for you, Mr. Drew Ford aka as ThatViolaKid and the creator of the wonderful hashtag and movement #PlayHomiePlay. Drew talks about his journey through the classical music world and his life after The Julliard School. He also discusses why it's important for musicians to share their story on and off the stage. 

For more information on Drew please check out his website ThatViolaKid.com. Also, you can purchase tickets to his upcoming farewell concert here. I hope to see you there! 

Featured song: All Of The Lights by Kanye West feat. Rihanna and Kid Cudi

Redesigning Life

“I’ll tell you what freedom is to me: no fear.” - Nina Simone

On the Redesigning Life episode, I introduce you to Tamu Green the Owner/Principal Designer of  LuxPad Interiors. We get real about life in the Interior Design industry and how important self-discovery is in life, love, and business. 

Featured song "Work in Progress" by MuMuFresh

Get more information on Tamu Green and LuxPad Interiors at LuxPadInteriors.com

Run Your Race

“The human body is the best work of art.” 
― Jess C. Scott

Join JayEll Alexander, Owner/CEO of Black Girls Run! and myself as we talk about fitness, what it takes to become an active runner and how taking care of your body can help your mind, body, and soul.

Featured Song: RAYE – Confidence feat. Maleek Berry & Nana Rogues

Get more information on the Black Girls Run! movement at blackgirlsrun.com.