Join Kim, Marquia, and Ednesha as they discuss  the connection between beauty standards, relationships, and mental health for Black women. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the pressure and expectations placed on Black women regarding beauty standards and relationships. They explore the influence of social media, the impact of harmful beauty ideals, and the need for self-care and positive self-image. They emphasize the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive friends and family and resisting conforming to damaging standards. Takeaways Beauty standards can have a significant impact on Black women's mental health and self-esteem. Media, including reality TV shows, often promote unrealistic and toxic relationship ideals. It is important for Black women to challenge societal beauty standards and embrace their own unique beauty. Self-love and self-acceptance are crucial for healthy relationships and overall well-being. Black women face pressure and unrealistic expectations regarding beauty standards and relationships. Social media can be toxic and damaging to self-esteem, so it's important to consume media that positively represents Black women. Prioritizing self-care that nurtures the mind and body is crucial for maintaining a positive self-image. Surrounding oneself with friends and family who reinforce positive messages about beauty and self-worth can provide a strong counterbalance to negative external messages. Resisting conforming to harmful beauty and relationship standards is essential for maintaining one's authenticity and mental well-being. Keywords: beauty standards, relationships, marriage, mental health, Black women, self-love, media, reality TV, beauty standards, relationships, social media, self-care, positive self-image, support --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Ednesha, Marquia, and Kim for a great discussion about the digital detoxing! We're talking about the importance of digital well-being and the need to unplug and set boundaries with technology. We explore the balance between staying informed vs. being overloaded with information and offer tips for maintaining a healthy relationship with technology. Takeaways Unplugging and setting boundaries with technology is essential for digital well-being and mental health. Excessive use of digital devices can lead to exhaustion, eye strain, distraction, sleep disturbances, and decreased productivity. Being intentional about device usage and taking breaks from technology can help maintain a healthy relationship with technology. Prioritizing real-life connections and spending quality time away from screens is crucial for overall well-being. Setting digital boundaries and detoxing from excessive screen time is important for mental well-being. Notifying others and involving them in the detox can help with accountability and support. Finding a healthier balance with technology is essential for maintaining mental well-being. Keywords: digital well-being, unplugging, setting boundaries, addiction, mental health, staying informed, information overload, digital boundaries, digital detox, screen time, social media addiction, mental well-being --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Marquia, Ednesha, and Kim and they wrap up season 3! Looks like we made it... we may have took the long way but nigga we made it. It’s the last episode of the season that never ended. We appreciate y’all being patient and bearing with us this season. We wanted to take some time today to reflect back on this season, some of our favorite moments, things we’ve learned about ourselves and one another, and our wish list for season 4.  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Kim, Marquia, and Ednesha as they talk about communication! Communication is more than just words exchanged… it shapes relationships with yourself and others, our understanding, and ultimately, our well-being. Whether it's spoken or unspoken, communication brings us together, keeps us together and can separate us, or tears us apart. And there are so many things that make up communication: from the words we use, the way we say it, the cadence, the tone, our body language etc.  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Ednesha, Marquia, and Kim for a great discussion about the new year. We’re talking about the New Year and the various resolutions, vision boards, goals and planning that we often talk about every New Year. What does the New Year represent for you? For some of us it represents another chance in life, another year to live, another year in which you can live out your dreams. time of rejoicing and of serious introspection, a time to celebrate the completion of another year while also taking stock of one's life and looking ahead. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Kim, Marquia, and Ednesha as they discuss community care. According to Mental Health America Community care is critical to an individual’s mental health as it responds to the isolating factors often experienced by individuals who may feel disconnected to their community due to life circumstances, the impacts of racism, marginalization, violence, trauma, and other societal factors. Community care enables individuals to find belonging, connection, purpose, and collective support in a welcoming environment. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Ednesha, Marquia, and Kim for a great discussion with Katara McCarty, Founder of EXHALE⁠, the first emotional well-being app designed specifically for Black Women and Women of Color. EXHALE recently published “⁠The State of Self-Care for Black Women⁠” report, providing an in-depth look at Black Women's experience with mental, emotional, and physical health. Some of the findings were: Nearly half of the Black Women surveyed indicate that stress impacts their daily lives, and 25% report being hospitalized or needing medical care due to stress. An overwhelming 76% think there is a prevalence of people who believe Black Women are stronger than most people and should be able to manage more stress than others. And 66% say they overexert themselves to excel in the workplace and to take care of personal responsibilities. While resources to manage stress have become more abundant, the report further confirms that Black Women face many barriers in accessing formal mental health resources, with the majority of resources failing to address the unique experiences of Black Women. As a result, 77% of respondents believe there is a need for more well-being tools and resources tailored to support their specific needs. 47% said there is an insufficient number of well-being resources and tools specifically tailored for Black Women. Katara is a sought-after coach, author, speaker and podcast host, as well as the Founder and CEO of Katecha Corp, a technology startup dedicated to expanding access to health and well-being for Black Women. She is also the founder of Katecha Cares Foundation, a non-profit committed to systemic change that prioritizes and ensures culturally responsive care for Black Women’s mental and emotional health is the norm. Katara is committed to amplifying the richness of Black Women and their stories while advocating for and providing well-being resources through her app EXHALE.  Let us know what you think of this episode on our social media! ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ Check out our website! www.blackwomanbewhole.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Marquia, Ednesha, and Kim for a great discussion with Dr. LaWanda Hill Bout burnout. “Burn-out is a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. It is characterized by feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion, increased mental distance from one's job, feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one's job, and reduced professional efficacy. Burnout can show up in a lot of different ways Dr. Hill is the owner of Dr. LaWanda Hill, LLC, and Hill Psychological and Consultation Services. Dr. Hill holds both a Doctorate of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology and a Masters's degree in Professional Counseling from the University of Houston as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Southern University and A&M College. Dr. Hill is a licensed psychologist in California and Texas, a consultant, and a curator of transformative spaces. She is a proud native of northern Louisiana and possesses an enduring love for assisting others, specifically Black women, in their journey of self-discovery and holistic growth.  You can find Dr. Hill at the following link: drlawandahill.com Let us know what you think of this episode! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Marquia, Ednesha, and Kim for a great discussion about healing journeys. Healing is not linear, and because you are healing or have healed from something, it's okay if you still get triggered or revisit the same issue. When you think of healing/being healed, what does that look like/mean for you? What are some ways that your triggers show up for you? When you think of a thing/person/incident, you’re healing from. Is there a specific scenario that comes to mind and how do you handle when those old feelings pop up? What or who are the supports you have in place as you navigate your healing? Let us know what you think of this episode on our social media! ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ Check out our website! www.blackwomanbewhole.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Ednesha, Marquia, and Kim for a discussion about Social Wellness Month July is considered Social Wellness Month as well as BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month, National family Reunion Month, National Watermelon month, National Black Family Month, and National Grilling Month amongst other things. Since the early 2000s it’s been used as a way to encourage people to practice healthy social behaviors and build meaningful relationships with others. Social wellness is all about fostering positive connections, not just with family and friends, but also with our communities, colleagues, and strangers we meet at the bar, library, park or anywhere on your journey. Our social wellness is just as important as our physical and mental wellness. Having healthy meaningful relationships in your life is a vital component of your well-being. Let us know what you think of this episode on our social media! ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ Check out our website! www.blackwomanbewhole.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Kim, Marquia, and Ednesha as they discuss the importance of mid-year check-ins We're halfway through 2023 and we thought it would be fitting to discuss mid year check in and making the most of the rest of your year. Looking at the things you said you were going to do, the things that you said were important to you and checking in to see if those things are still relevant and how you're doing with them.  The most basic question you can ask yourself is How am I doing so far on the personal and professional goals I set for this year?  How do you feel about what has happened this first half of the year? What have been my proudest accomplishments so far this year? M/E/K Have you been building and cultivating your relationships?  Have you been taking care of your mental and emotional needs? Let us know what you think of this episode on our social media! ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ Check out our website! www.blackwomanbewhole.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Ednesha, Kim, and Marquia as they talk about the harmful and unsustainable Strong Black Woman trope. As a result, we are suffering from depression and anxiety, and sacrificing our mental, emotional, and physical health trying to live up to this unrealistic expectation. Black women need support from their families, and communities, to be vulnerable and to redefine what "strong" really means. For more information on Black Woman Be Whole, check out the links below: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackwomanbewhole/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blackwomanbewhole/ ***We want to hear from YOU!*** Drop us a note and let us know your thoughts about this episode.​ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Marquia, Ednesha, and Kim for a great discussion with Dr. LaWanda Hill Bout burnout. “Burn-out is a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. It is characterized by feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion, increased mental distance from one's job, feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one's job, and reduced professional efficacy. Burnout can show up in a lot of different ways Dr. Hill is the owner of Dr. LaWanda Hill, LLC, and Hill Psychological and Consultation Services. Dr. Hill holds both a Doctorate of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology and a Masters's degree in Professional Counseling from the University of Houston as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Southern University and A&M College. Dr. Hill is a licensed psychologist in California and Texas, a consultant, and a curator of transformative spaces. She is a proud native of northern Louisiana and possesses an enduring love for assisting others, specifically Black women, in their journey of self-discovery and holistic growth.  You can find Dr. Hill at the following link: drlawandahill.com Let us know what you think of this episode! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join, Ednesha, Kim, and Marquia as they discuss self-care, the messages they received about self-care, and the impact of that on them now.  They examine what is it like being a Black woman who chooses to focus on self-care, while trying to not feeling selfish, and the many ways they access self-care. Lastly, they talk about their decision to be self-care advocates and what they want Black women to know about the importance of taking care of themselves. For more information on Black Woman Be Whole, check out the links below: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackwomanbewhole/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blackwomanbewhole/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Ednesha, Marquia, and Kim for a great discussion with Kimberly Thomas, is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in sex therapy practicing in the state of Virginia. She has a post graduate certificate from the Instutute for Sexuality Education and Enlightenment and is pursuing AASECT certification.  Kimberly is the owner of Transformation Space Therapeutic Services where she focuses on helping individuals and those who are partnered navigate the impact of anxiety, depression and sexual dysfunctions. Her goal is to help her clients achieve a full pleasure centered sex life. Kimberly releases a monthly newsletter with tips and tools to help people navigate sex and to improve their relationships overall. The newsletter can be found on her website at Www.transformationspacets.com.  Let us know what you think of this episode on our social media! ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ Check out our website! www.blackwomanbewhole.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Kim, Marquia, and Ednesha as they discuss money! We thought it would be fitting to discuss money because April is tax season and whether you’re an individual or have a business, you have to holla at the I-R-S because they want their money! So we’re all thinking about money. What’s our values around money, our relationship with money, how we are using it to support our quality of life, and how capitalism is impacting us. Let us know what you think of this episode on our social media! ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ Check out our website! www.blackwomanbewhole.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Marquia, Ednesha, and Kim for a great discussion with Dr. Brenda M. Greene the founder and executive director of the Center for Black Literature (CBL), director of the National Black Writers Conference (NBWC), and professor of English at Medgar Evers College. She has taught at the Board of Education before becoming director of the Right to Read Program at Malcolm King College Harlem Extension; served on many committees at Medgar Evers College; has served as director of literacy and writing programs for youth and adults;  through the Center for Black Literature, Dr. Greene has pursued her passion for expanding, broadening, and enriching the public’s knowledge and aesthetic appreciation of the value of the literature produced by Black writers. She is the visionary behind groundbreaking public and academic programs that support Black Writers. She also hosts the long-running weekly program, Writers on Writing, heard on New York airwaves (WNYE, 91.5 FM) and globally via YouTube. The program features writers of the African Diaspora discussing their lives, their creative process, and their work (novels, poems, plays, nonfiction, and more). Currently, she is preparing to host the 2023 National Black Writers Conference Biennial Symposium, “Diasporic Visions: Celebrating Black Speculative Fiction,” Happening this weekend at Medgar Evers College. Dr. Greene is the proud mother of two sons, Talib Kweli Greene (an internationally known hip-hop artist) and Jamal K. Greene (Professor of Constitutional Law at Columbia University), and the proud grandmother of Amani, Diani, Riya, Ayan, Kian, and Justice. Let us know what you think of this episode! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Ednesha, Marquia, and Kim for a great discussion with Nina Westbrook a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, mother of three children and married to NBA All-Star, Russell Westbrook.  Do Tell! Was created to inspire personal growth and meaningful connection. Everything in the card game is meant to serve as a positive tool designed to spark new and ongoing reflection practices. Even though nobody technically wins, everyone who plays benefits socially and emotionally! Bene by Nina was founded by Nina to serve as a safe digital environment that offers a wealth of resources and e-workshops meant to help cultivate wellness in every area of life.  Her refreshingly candid insight on the topics of mental health and the importance of personal and interpersonal growth are regularly highlighted by trusted outlets nationwide, including the New York Times, TED, Goop, Good Housekeeping, and ABC13. Let us know what you think of this episode! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Kim, Marquia, and Ednesha as they update listeners on what's been happening since the hiatus, the format of the show, and guests! Let us know what you think of this episode on our social media! Instagram Facebook Check out our website! www.blackwomanbewhole.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Marquia, Ednesha, and Kim as they talk about season 2 of the podcast and their vision for themselves and Black Woman Be Whole! They answer the following questions: What was it like making the podcast? Did it give what it was supposed to gave? What was your favorite episode of season 2? What do you see in the future for the next season? The next segment asks the questions: Has your vision for yourself or idea of your future self, changed since the pandemic and what’s your vision for Black Woman Be Whole? For more information on Black Woman Be Whole, check out the links below: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackwomanbewhole/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blackwomanbewhole/ ***We want to hear from YOU!*** Drop us a note and let us know your thoughts about this episode. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message