Balanced Black Girl

Continuing our Black author's book club series, this week I’ve invited Lyvonne Briggs back to the show. Lyvonne is the author of the book Sensual Faith: The Art of Coming Home to Your Body. She's an Emmy Award winner, a body and sex-positive womanist, preacher, spiritual life coach, and speaker. She is the host of the Sensual Faith podcast and co-host of Sanctified, a faith-based Spotify exclusive podcast on Jamel Hills’ Unbothered network.Together, we have an incredibly rich and powerful conversation about decolonizing our faith, building our spiritual team, and navigating our personal evolutions.We also talk about…Seeing ourselves in one another’s stories and knowing we aren’t aloneHow the smallest things can be big shifts toward healingThe fact that God doesn’t require our suffering to prove our devotionLetting go of invisible milestones and trusting the timing of your lifeUnlearning the inclination to earn our self-loveEmbracing African cosmology and the Black woman as divineThe truth about writing a book and getting it publishedResources:Visit Lyvonne’s websiteRead Lyvonne’s Book, Sensual Faith: The Art of Coming Home to Your BodyFollow Lyvonne on InstagramListen to the Sensual Faith PodcastListen to the Sanctified podcastSponsors:LMNT | LMNT is my favorite no-sugar electrolyte mix. Get a free sample pack with your order at drinklmnt.com/balancedles. Alo Moves | Take wellness and fitness classes from anywhere on-demand with Alo Moves. Visit alomoves.com and use the code "BALANCED" for a free 30-day trial and 50% off your annual membership.Hers | Visit forhers.com/spring to get your first month of treatment for just $25 if prescribed. Zocdoc | Visit zocdoc.com/balanced and download the Zocdoc app for free and find a trusted healthcare provider in your area. Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.comJoin Club Balanced, our community on GenevaSubscribe to our newsletter, Mirror NotesFollow on IG: @balancedblackgirlpodcast @balancedlesFollow on TikTok @balancedblackgirl @balancedlesSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

We’re continuing our book club series with another conversation with the very first Balanced Black Girl guest, Chrissy King.In celebration of Chrissy’s new book The Body Liberation Project, we have an honest, vulnerable conversation about what body liberation is and how we can work towards it individually and collectively. We also talk about reading and writing as an act of self care.Chrissy King is a writer, speaker, former strength coach, and educator with a passion for creating a diverse and inclusive wellness industry. She empowers individuals to stop shrinking, start taking up space, and use their energy to create their specific magic in the world.We Also Talk About…What diet culture is and what it entailsHow food is for pleasure, not just fuelThe myth that Black women and girls don’t struggle with body imageThe intersection of racism and diet cultureThe difference between body liberation and body positivityReading and writing as an act of self careResources:Visit Chrissy’s WebsiteOrder The Body Liberation ProjectFollow Chrissy on InstagramSponsors:ZocDoc | Zocdoc | Find and book a top-rated doctor in your area today with Zocdoc. Visit zocdoc.com/balanced to download the app for free.Alo Moves | Reach your fitness and wellness goals with Alo Moves. Visit alomoves.com and use the code BALANCED for a free 30-day trial and 50% off an annual membership.Clay | Organize your digital connections with Clay. Clay is offering a free 60-day trial to Balanced Black Girl listeners at clay.earth/partners/balanced.Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.comJoin Club Balanced, our community on GenevaSubscribe to our newsletter, Mirror NotesFollow on IG: @balancedblackgirlpodcast @balancedlesFollow on TikTok @balancedblackgirl @balancedlesSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

It’s a new month, so we have a new theme—Book Club! For the next few weeks you can look forward to conversations with amazing authors from the Balanced Book Club.Today I'm joined by Clarkisha Kent to celebrate the launch of her new book Fat Off, Fat On: a Big Bitch Manifesto. Clarkisha is a Nigerian-American writer, culture critic, former columnist and author. She is also the creator of the Kent Test, an immediate litmus test designed to evaluate the quality of representation that exists for Black women and women of color in film and other media.Together we discuss her new book, how she handled writing such a vulnerable story, the ways humor can support our healing, and why media literacy is a critical skill.We Also Talk About…The value of the public libraryThe dynamic nature of being humanHow no one knows what they’re doing with their lifeThe many flavors of exploitationThe effectiveness of getting mad sometimesThe necessity of being critical of the media you’re consumingResources:Visit Clarkisha’s WebsiteFollow Clarkisha on InstagramThe Kent TestFat Off, Fat On: A Big Bitch Manifesto by Clarkisha KentSponsors:ZocDoc | Zocdoc | Find and book a top-rated doctor in your area today with Zocdoc. Visit zocdoc.com/balanced to download the app for free.Alo Moves | Reach your fitness and wellness goals with Alo Moves. Visit alomoves.com and use the code BALANCED for a free 30-day trial and 50% off an annual membership.LMNT | LMNT is a tasty electrolyte drink mix with everything you need and nothing you don’t. Right now LMNT is offering my listeners a free sample pack with any purchase. Get yours at drinklmnt.com/balancedles.Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.comJoin Club Balanced, our community on GenevaSubscribe to our newsletter, Mirror NotesFollow on IG: @balancedblackgirlpodcast @balancedlesFollow on TikTok @balancedblackgirl @balancedlesSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

We’ve had some incredible episodes on intimacy these past few weeks, and today we're wrapping up the series with licensed marriage and family therapist Kamil Lewis.Kamil’s work focuses on sex therapy and examines intersectional identity specifically with race, sexuality, and gender. She’s the CEO of the therapy practice The Expansive Group and co-host of the podcast Safe Word.In this episode, we discuss ways to connect with ourselves and how the ability to connect with others really starts within. Kamil also shares some great tactical advice to help you build your connection skill set.We Also Talk About…The experience of intimacy as a Black FemmeReplacing the narrative that putting yourself first is selfishCreating small, sustainable, moments of care in your life and giving your routines room to changeCultivating a curious and playful relationship with masturbationHaving healthy conversations about pleasure with children and not just the dreaded “talk”Kamil’s favorite self-care practicesResources:Visit Kamil’s WebsiteFollow Kamil on InstagramListen to the Safe Word PodcastFollow Sex Positive Families on InstagramSponsors:Clay | Clay is an app to help you organize your digital relationships. Clay is offering a free 60-day trial to Balanced Black Girl listeners. Go to clay.earth/partners/balanced to start your free trial.Alo Moves | Reach your fitness and wellness goals with on-demand classes from Alo Moves. Visit alomoves.com and use the code BALANCED for a free 30-day trial and 50% off an annual membership. Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.comJoin Club Balanced, our community on GenevaSubscribe to our newsletter, Mirror NotesFollow on IG: @balancedblackgirlpodcast @balancedlesFollow on TikTok @balancedblackgirl @balancedlesSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

All too often, our formative experiences with our bodies and sensuality are tied to shame. That can lead to us feeling disconnected from ourselves and confused about what we want or need from intimacy.In this episode, we’re continuing our series on intimacy as we delve into the topic of physical intimacy with Krystal Taylor. Together, we talk about unpacking sexual shame and feeling more comfortable in our bodies and relationships.Krystal is a certified tantra yoga instructor who specializes in educating and supporting individuals towards sexual wholeness. Her unique coaching approach involves sharing ancient yogic philosophy, ancestral practices, as well as her own sensual, get down to earth techniques.We Also Talk About…Working through learned shame around sexuality and pleasureWhy sex and intimacy are two different thingsReconnecting with your body, intuition, and voiceWhat Tantra really isHow to begin exploring your sensualityResources:The difference between sex and intimacy: https://www.instagram.com/p/CmxFg4wBdCl/Visit Krystal’s Website (and sign up for her newsletter!)Follow Krystal on InstagramWatch & Learn from Krystal on YouTubeJoin Krystal for Tantric TrainingSponsors:LMNT | LMNT is a tasty electrolyte drink mix with everything you need and nothing you don’t. Right now LMNT is offering my listeners a free sample pack with any purchase. Get yours at drinklmnt.com/balancedles.Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.comJoin Club Balanced, our community on GenevaSubscribe to our newsletter, Mirror NotesFollow on IG: @balancedblackgirlpodcast @balancedlesFollow on TikTok @balancedblackgirl @balancedlesSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

As adults, building and maintaining friendships is a challenge. What felt so easy as kids, now feels like an overwhelming task full of rejection, uncertainty, and confusion. But connection plays a huge role in our overall health and well-being. Studies show that it’s even more important than regular exercise!So in today’s episode, we’re diving into platonic intimacy with Dr. Marisa Franco. Dr. Franco is a psychologist, international speaker, and professor. She’s also the author of The New York Times best seller Platonic: How the Science of Attachment Can Help You Make and Keep Friends.Together, we discuss the importance of friendship, the science behind our need for platonic connection, and how simple it can be to make friends as an adult.We Also Talk About…How friendship is acted out across gender linesLoneliness as a stress experience & critical longevity indicatorTreating our friendships with as much care, excitement, and celebration as our romantic partnershipsHow healthy conflict in relationships can lead to deeper intimacy and understandingFriendships throughout times of transitionResources:Platonic: How the Science of Attachment Can Help You Make – and Keep – Friends by Dr. Marisa FrancoVisit Dr. Marisa Franco’s WebsiteFollow Dr. Marisa Franco on InstagramSponsors:Zocdoc | Find and book a top-rated doctor in your area today with Zocdoc. Visit zocdoc.com/balanced to download the app for free. Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.comJoin Club Balanced, our community on GenevaSubscribe to our newsletter, Mirror NotesFollow on IG: @balancedblackgirlpodcast @balancedlesFollow on TikTok @balancedblackgirl @balancedlesSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

It’s February, and around here that means celebrating Black History Month, Aquarius season, and (at least in this episode) very reluctantly love.If you’ve been listening to Balanced Black Girl for a while, you know I loathe talking about modern dating and the way relationships are discussed online right now. However, we can’t talk about living a healthy lifestyle without talking about building and maintaining healthy relationships.Join me in this safe container, free from discussions about who’s fixing whose plate, to explore the connections between relationships and our wellbeing.I also talk about…The hurtful marketing strategy that relationship content thrives onRecognizing connection as a skillWhy relationships are so important to happy, healthy livesEmotional intimacy, physical intimacy, mental intimacy, and spiritual intimacyThe value in not being defensive to questioningResources:Physical Contact and Loneliness: Being Touched Reduces Perceptions of LonelinessSpiritual Intimacy: Talking as "Soul Mates"Strengthen relationships for longer, healthier lifeSponsors:Zocdoc | Find and book a top-rated doctor in your area today with Zocdoc. Visit zocdoc.com/balanced to download the app for free.Open | Move, meditate, and breathe in community with Open. Get 30 days free when you go to go.o-p-e-n.com/balancedles.Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.comJoin Club Balanced, our community on GenevaSubscribe to our newsletter, Mirror NotesFollow on IG: @balancedblackgirlpodcast @balancedlesFollow on TikTok @balancedblackgirl @balancedlesSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

It seems like there’s always something new to distract us and keep our attention spans ever-shrinking. So today, we’re wrapping up our Reframing the Reset series by talking with Dr. Tara Zinnamon about de-commoditizing our attention spans to regain agency and awareness of where our attention is going.Dr. Tara Zinnamon is a neuroscientist, yoga, breathwork, and meditation teacher who has a unique perspective as she balances her knowledge of neuroscience and yoga in her personal and teaching practices. If you can’t visit her studio, you can find her classes on Open where she hosts a range of yoga classes.We Also Talk About…The four types of attentionThe damage overworking and overextending ourselves can do to our attentionCapitalism’s impact on our ability to focus on ourselvesLeaning into adjustable practices and goals that flow with your phases of lifeWhy we start the year in January (hint: like most things, it’s made up)The benefits of even just a few minutes of meditation and breath workBeing “woo” adjacentResources:Follow Dr. Tara on InstagramTake a Class with Dr. Tara on Open (free for 30 days with this link)[Your Attention Is Your Most Precious Resource](https://medium.com/the-ascent/your-attention-is-your-most-precious-resource-663c6ffbc0ba#:~:text=It guides our future.&text=This is what makes the,of truth — ideas are powerful.)Defining the focus of attention: effects of attention on perceived exertion and fatigueTheories of Selective AttentionAcute coordinative exercise improves attentional performance in adolescentsThe yin and yang of sleep and attentionIncreased dopamine tone during meditation-induced change of consciousnessHow to Get Healthier Dopamine HighsKeep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.comJoin Club Balanced, our community on GenevaSubscribe to our newsletter, Mirror NotesFollow on IG: @balancedblackgirlpodcast @balancedlesFollow on TikTok @balancedblackgirl @balancedlesSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

For this week’s Reframing the Reset episode, we’re talking about alcohol, and exploring this sometimes-sensitive subject in a non-judgmental, open, and educational way.Join in as I share my personal journey with alcohol consumption — from my not-so-inspiring first drinking experience to my somehow less inspiring last. We’ll also dive into some pretty surprising heath information and the cultural connotations of drinking for women.I also talk about…The false sense of confidence alcohol can provideThe art of sneaking kombucha into the clubThe dreaded Saturn Return and why it’s really nothing to be scared ofGetting comfortable sitting in your discomfortThe actual science behind wine’s health benefitsResources:No Level of Alcohol Consumption Improves Health — The LancetAlcohol’s Effects on the Body — https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohols-effects-body#:~:text=Drinking too much can weaken,do not drink too much.How Alcohol affects your sleep patterns — https://www.drinkaware.co.uk/facts/health-effects-of-alcohol/effects-on-the-body/alcohol-and-sleep#:~:text=Regular drinking can affect the,drinking disrupts your sleep cycle.&text=Some people may find alcohol,sleep quality through the night.Alcohol and Anxiety — https://www.healthline.com/health/alcohol-and-anxiety#consequencesMore young women are drinking to cope — https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2021/06/09/1003980966/women-now-drink-as-much-as-men-and-suffer-health-effects-more-quicklySex differences in alcohol-related alcohol use — https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6430711/Women’s response to alcohol suggests need for gender-based alcohol programs — https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/womens-response-alcohol-gender-specific-treatment/Substance Abuse Treatment Entry, Retention, and Outcome in Women: A Review of the Literature — https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3532875/#FN1Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:Join the Reframing the Reset ChallengeVisit our website at balancedblackgirl.comJoin Club Balanced, our community on GenevaSubscribe to our newsletter, Mirror NotesFollow on IG: @balancedblackgirlpodcast @balancedlesFollow on TikTok @balancedblackgirl @balancedlesSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Starting a new year often gets people interested in improving or revisiting their exercise regimens. But workout culture is so fraught with harmful weight loss narratives that the critical benefits of movement often get overshadowed.In this episode, I share my knowledge of cardio, mobility, and strength training, and my own life-changing fitness journey. I also explain my strategy for building a health-focused routine rooted in building strength and longevity as an act of kindness to your future self.I also talk about…The unique benefits of strength training for womenWhat a healthy fitness routine could look likeUnderstanding basal metabolic rateNutrition and sleep basicsSome tactical tips for understanding your strength workoutsResources:Join the Reframing the Reset ChallengeCheck out these physical activity guidelines for AmericansHormonal responses and adaptations to resistance exercise and training: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15831061/Exercise programming for Insulin Resistance: https://journals.lww.com/nsca-scj/fulltext/2011/10000/exercise_programming_for_insulin_resistance.5.aspx#:~:text=ResistanceMuscle Mass Index As a Predictor of Longevity in Older Adults: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0002934314001387Get ClassPass for two weeks free and try workout classes in your areaAlive App by Whitney Simmons: https://aliveapp.co/Uplift with Jibby: https://uplift.plankk.com/Nike Training Club: https://www.nike.com/ntc-appAlexis Moore, flexibility coach: https://instagram.com/stretchwithlex?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=Sponsors:Open | Open is a mindfulness app built to transform your life. Experience the power of combining breathwork, meditation, sound, and movement to strengthen your mind-body connection. Visit https://go.o-p-e-n.com/balancedles for 30 days free.Zocdoc | Finding a doctor you trust doesn’t have to be hard. Check out Zocdoc’s free app to find patient-recommended care providers in your area.Nuuly | Nuuly is a subscription clothing rental service that I absolutely love. Get $20 off your first month when you sign up with the code BALANCED20.Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.comJoin Club Balanced, our community on GenevaSubscribe to our newsletter, Mirror NotesFollow on IG: @balancedblackgirlpodcast @balancedlesFollow on TikTok @balancedblackgirl @balancedlesSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Screen time has a way of sneaking up on us, and before we know it, our time for the things we really want to do is gone. So this week, we’re continuing the Reframing the Reset series with a topic we’ve all struggled with at some point — digital self-care.In this episode, I discuss some best practices to help keep you in the driver’s seat on your devices. And I share some tools I’ve used to help organize my digital world that I hope will be helpful to you as well.I also talk about…Cultivating awareness of how you spend your timeCurating your social media feedsStaying out of the comments section of toxic postsHaving creative outlets to get you out of constant consumptionStrategies for healthier screen time managementResources:Join the Reframing the Reset ChallengeGet the Smart Cleaner AppSponsors:Nuuly | Nuuly is a subscription clothing rental service that I absolutely love. Get $20 off your first month when you sign up with the code BALANCED20.Zocdoc | Zocdoc is the only FREE app that lets you find and book doctors who are patient-reviewed, take your insurance, and are available when you need them. Visit zocdoc.com/balanced to download the app and find a care provider near you.Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.comJoin Club Balanced, our community on GenevaSubscribe to our newsletter, Mirror NotesFollow on IG: @balancedblackgirlpodcast @balancedlesFollow on TikTok @balancedblackgirl @balancedlesSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Happy New Year, and welcome to our first episode of 2023! To kick off the year, I’m revisiting last year’s Reframing the Reset series with even more clarity and actionable items.We’ll be exploring ways that we can reset in the new year to feel our best all year long. This week, I focus on the idea of strengthening our habits in sustainable and stackable ways that affirm us as the version of ourselves we want to be.I also talk about…Investing time upfront to free you up for what’s most important to youDirecting your energyChoosing when to face inevitable discomfortMaking decisions with the best version of yourself in mindThe big impact of small, incremental stepsResources:Join the Reframing the Reset ChallengeOrder the Almanack of Naval RavikantJoin Club Balanced on GenevaSponsors:Open | Join me in the Meditation + Breathwork Challenge on Open - it’s totally free for the month of January, go to www.withopen.com/balancedles to sign up.Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.comJoin Club Balanced, our community on GenevaSubscribe to our newsletter, Mirror NotesFollow on IG: @balancedblackgirlpodcast @balancedlesFollow on TikTok @balancedblackgirl @balancedlesSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Join us for the Reframing the Reset series and challenge kicking off on January 2, 2023. Each week in January we'll be releasing a new episode to inspire you to refresh your habits. As a community, we'll be participating in weekly challenges for accountability to help you apply what you hear on the podcast. Visit balancedblackgirl.com/reset to sign up for the challenge, and join Club Balanced, our community in Geneva to connect with other Balanced Black Girl listeners. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Before we start talking about 2023, I think it’s important to look back and reflect on 2022.So in this solo episode, I’m sharing my process for conducting a life audit. I explain what a life audit is, why you might benefit from doing one, and how it can help you find deeper satisfaction next year.I also talk about…Our upcoming Reframing the Reset series + challengeChecking in with how you feel vs how you want to feelCelebrating the areas of life where you feel satisfiedShowing love to the parts of your life where there’s a gap between how you feel & how you want to feelImplementing changes for the year aheadResources:Sign up for Reframing the Reset 2023Join the Balanced Black Girl community on Genevabalancedblackgirl.com ◉ IG: @balancedblackgirlpodcast @balancedles 〆Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this week’s episode, we are continuing our end-of-year rest and digest series with the incredible, Alex Elle. Together, we have an honest talk about healing — the good, the challenging, and everything in between.Alex also shares what it’s like to heal your inner child while raising children, the importance of taking time for reflection, and even the joys of her walking practice. This conversation is packed with wisdom, thoughtfulness, and stunning truths.Alex Elle is a New York Times best selling author and wellbeing teacher who helps others find their voice and create clarity in their lives and relationships. She just released her latest book How We Heal, which guides us on a life changing journey to begin again, grow, and heal not only ourselves, but the generations after.We Also Talk About…Opening the box and being with the messGiving ourselves grace and permission to be softEmpowering children to share when their feelings are hurtHealing as an act of community careCommon misconceptions about healingEmbracing emotional rest and allowing space to be present with joyThe most powerful tools for healing — walking and writingThe stunning beauty of the truthResources:Visit Alex’s WebsiteBuy How We HealFollow Alex on InstagramJoin Alex on SubstackJoin Club Balanced on Genevabalancedblackgirl.com ◉ IG: @balancedblackgirlpodcast @balancedles 〆Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

For me and so many others, Winter can be draining and leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves and our communities. So as we move toward the end of 2022, I find myself thinking of ways to be prepared for the holiday season and Winter blues.In this solo episode, I encourage you to think of Winter as a call to rest, set the stage to call in your manifestations, and channel the energy of the Winter Solstice to prepare for the bloom. I share my favorite ways to stay balanced, set boundaries, and be financially well.I also talk about…Why winter is the perfect time to focus on extra self-careWhat winter represents spiritually and how we can apply this to how we take careWays to reflect without dwellingThe importance of taking a break from doing “the work”Resources:Healing Through Rest: Creating Balance for Your Nervous System — Balanced Black GirlWinter, sleep and your circadian rhythms — The American Association of Sleep MedicineExercising for better sleep — Johns Hopkins MedicineSleep Toolkit: Tools for Optimizing Sleep & Sleep-Wake Timing — Huberman LabDoes the High Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency in African Americans Contribute to Health Disparities? — National Library of MedicineBenefits of Vitamin D — Harvard School of Public HealthIs Vitamin D deficiency causing your depression? — HealthlineThe Synergistic Interplay between Vitamins D and K for Bone and Cardiovascular Health — National Library of MedicineThe Physical and Mental Benefits of Getting Outside in the Winter — University of UtahSponsors:Open | If you’re looking for a mindful meditation, breath work, and movement app I can’t recommend Open enough. They have a beautifully curated collection of guided meditation, breath work, and movement exercises to support you in your practice. Try Open for 30 Days free. Visit open-together.com/**BALANCED.**BetterHelp | This episode is sponsored brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/BBG and get on your way to being your best self.balancedblackgirl.com ◉ IG: @balancedblackgirlpodcast @balancedles 〆Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

It’s so important to balance life, family, friends and your career, but it can be challenging — especially during the holidays.In this episode, I’m joined by Abena Antwi, a Chemist and Associate Product Designer at Burt’s Bees. She shares how she balances her career in chemistry and cosmetics, making time for her family, and taking care of herself.We Also Talk About…Why Abena wanted to become a chemist & how she ended up in cosmeticsThe challenges of being a working mother and being passionate about your workHow community makes our careers and lives possibleThe importance of Black women & women of color working in the cosmetics industryHow Burt’s Bees shea butter products support women in GhanaOur favorite Burt’s Bees lip tints & shimmersResources:Follow Burt’s Bees on Instagram @burtsbeesShop Burt’s Bees lip tints & shimmersLearn more about how Burt’s Bees uplifts women in sheaSponsor:This episode is presented by Burt’s Bees. By Nature. For Nature. For All.balancedblackgirl.com ◉ IG: @balancedblackgirlpodcast @balancedles 〆Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Podcasting is a growing industry with so much room for Black creators to share themselves, their views, and their brands. That’s probably why Black people make up 12% of the total population, but 15% of the podcast host population. But how do you get started? And how do you help your podcast be heard?Today I’m joined by Nakia Swinton, Supervising Producer at iHeart Radio, Co-host of Sufficiently Black, freelance producer for Balanced Black Girl podcast, and general podcast wizard. Together, we talk all things podcasts — from creation, to marketing, to community building and monetization. We even answer some thought-provoking listener questions!We Also Talk About…Building a community through your podcast marketingKeeping your SEO clear and easy to understandThe importance of consistency above all elseThe fabulous Issa Rae and her little-known (but amazing) podcastThe pros and cons of each type of podcasting and reading contracts thoroughlyHaving passion for more than the moneyResources (contains affiliate links):Visit Nakia’s WebsiteFollow Nakia on InstagramListen to Sufficiently BlackFollow Sufficiently Black on InstagramArticle: The Ultimate Guide to Starting A PodcastRedCircle, the hosting and monetization platform we usePodcasting gear we use to recordRiverside: the online recording software we useAcuity Scheduling: the software we use to book interviews with guestsSofter Sounds: who we work with for editing supportSponsor:Willmaker | Protect your financial assets with Willmaker. Visit willmaker.com to take their free quiz and use code BALANCED10 for 10% off your first document.POM Wonderful | Get your fill of antioxidant goodness with delicious POM Wonderful 100% Pomegranate Juice. To find delicious recipes and learn more about the antioxidant goodness of POM, visit pomwonderful.com.balancedblackgirl.com ◉ IG: @balancedblackgirlpodcast @balancedles 〆Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Black women have been the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs in the US for the past few years with 17% of us in the process of starting new businesses. But in 2020—a record-breaking year for venture capital investment—less than 100 Black women raised $1 million or more for their businesses, which is very small in the VC world.In this episode, I’m joined by Kathryn Finney, Founder and Managing General Partner of Genius Guild, a $20 million venture fund that builds and invests in scalable companies led by diverse founders. She's also the founder of the Duni fund, the founder and former CEO of Digital Undivided, the mastermind of the widely acclaimed project Diane Research, the author of Build the Damn Thing, and a Yale-trained epidemiologist.Together, we discuss the ins and outs of Venture Capital and business funding as well as Kathryn’s expertise as a successful entrepreneur and her favorite wellness practices.We Also Talk About…Seeing entrepreneurship as a tool that lets you live a creative lifeFocusing on executing an idea, not just the idea itselfHow not to waste $30k on a businessThe importance of knowing yourself and having a solid foundation as a leaderNot waiting for permission from the entitledThe differences between startups, small businesses, and hobbiesResources:Black women are the fastest growing group of entrepreneurs. But the job isn’t easy— JP MorganBuild The Damn Thing: How to Start a Successful Business if You're Not a Rich White Guy by Kathryn FinneyVisit Kathryn’s WebsiteSubmit Your Pitch to the Genius GuildListen to the Build the Damn Thing! PodcastFollow Kathryn on InstagramConnect with Kathryn on LinkedInSponsor:Open | If you’re looking for a mindful meditation, breath work, and movement app I can’t recommend Open enough. They have a beautifully curated collection of guided meditation, breath work, and movement exercises to support you in your practice. Try Open for 30 Days free. Visit open-together.com/**BALANCED.**balancedblackgirl.com ◉ IG: @balancedblackgirlpodcast @balancedles 〆Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

There is a big difference between building an audience that’s watching you and building a community that’s engaging with you. So how do we build strong, engaged communities that connect people rather than simply entertaining them?This week, I’m joined by Kim Johnson, head of community at Geneva, a New York based messaging app. Geneva helps creators, brands and leaders build communities from the ground up. So in this episode we dive deep into all things connection, conversation, and community.We Also Talk About…Building organic community that is engaged and passionate about you and your workThe changing landscape of the content creation and audience interactionHow people are getting good at sniffing out inauthenticityHaving your community build content with youThe imperative value of mutual exchangeI am also very excited to announce that we have launched a brand new Balanced Black Girl community on Geneva! Yes, we now have a free community called Club Balanced that you can join to connect with other listeners. The links to download Geneva and join the community are below.And if that’s not exciting enough, the book club is back and also hosted on Geneva. We will have monthly book picks, share recommendations, and we'll chat about them in the community.Resources:Follow Kim on InstagramJoin the Balanced Black Girl community on GenevaDownload the Geneva AppFollow Geneva on InstagramSponsors:BetterHelp | This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/BBG and get on your way to being your best self.****Framebridge | Visit Framebridge.com and use the code “BALANCED” for 15% off your first framing order.balancedblackgirl.com ◉ IG: @balancedblackgirlpodcast @balancedles 〆Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/balanced-black-girl/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy