Highly Melanated Podcast

Ever wondered why your morning routine might be the secret weapon you've been overlooking? We've cracked the code on how starting your day without immediately scrolling through your phone can lead to unexpected personal victories. From the calming embrace of weighted blankets to the quirky joy of morning rituals, we share laugh-out-loud stories and insights that just might inspire you to tweak your own routine. Join us as we celebrate the triumphs, both big and small, that come with embracing our unique quirks and finding comfort in them. And speaking of quirks, let’s talk bathroom etiquette—the personal habits most of us wouldn’t discuss at the dinner table but are secretly curious about. We dive into the hilarity of public restroom strategies, the unspoken rules of using baby wipes in public, and even throw in some cheeky confessions about unconventional holiday traditions and collecting odd trinkets. Through this candid camaraderie, we create a judgment-free zone where sharing a laugh over shared experiences reminds us just how wonderfully human we all are. As the year wraps up, we chat about the cathartic power of stepping back, regrouping, and missing out without the fear of it. With a lighthearted nod to 2025 and catchy rhymes, we reflect on the blessings of therapy, creative breakthroughs, and the beauty of not rushing through life. Our conversation is a heartfelt ode to self-care and community, underscoring our gratitude for you, our listeners, who make this journey so worthwhile. Here’s to recharging, renewing, and looking forward to new beginnings with open hearts. Follow US IG: https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast] Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod [https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA] IF YOU WANT TO BE A GUEST OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO WOULD BE A GREAT CHOICE, HIT US UP!!! FEEL FREE TO EMAIL US @highlymelanatedpodcast@gmail.com

***PREVIOUSLY RECORDED 11/27*** Can you imagine finding your true purpose in unexpected roles and experiences? Join PJ and Blair as they take the helm of the Highly Melanated Podcast while Red is exploring the vibrant culture of Ghana. We embark on a contemplative journey, reflecting on the enduring impacts of COVID-19 and the personal trials of feeling unseen. Blair's perspective on finding silver linings offers a beacon of hope, even in the toughest times. Together, we share gratitude and excitement for Red's return and the stories that will undoubtedly enrich our conversations. Have you ever wondered how personal faith shapes your identity and decisions? Our discussion uncovers the profound influence of spirituality in our lives, from early introductions to faith to meaningful connections within a church community. As we navigate personal faith stories, we ponder the balance between faith and worry and how unexpected paths can align with our divine purpose. We encourage listeners to reflect on their spiritual journeys and how these experiences guide their daily choices and understanding of self. Join us as we explore the whispers of inspiration that reveal our life's purpose. A chance encounter with a stranger recognizing divine qualities in us sparks a conversation on being vessels for positive change. We invite you to consider if your actions align with your will or a higher calling, and the comfort found in community prayer rituals that unite diverse backgrounds. With heartfelt discussions and introspection, we emphasize the importance of integrating faith into our lives and the fulfillment that comes from aligning our decisions with divine guidance. Follow US IG: https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast] Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod [https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA] IF YOU WANT TO BE A GUEST OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO WOULD BE A GREAT CHOICE, HIT US UP!!! FEEL FREE TO EMAIL US @highlymelanatedpodcast@gmail.com

CHECK OUT LIVING KRINGLE from Hey Girl Hey Productions [https://youtu.be/2WtwOV_MfUw?si=8dq6LQldWItIkPMa] What happens when creativity meets procrastination head-on? Join us as we share our personal struggles with content creation and the constant tug-of-war between inspiration and deadlines. We'll reveal the humor in swapping our creative roadblocks and discuss how motivation sometimes boils down to simply hitting that post button. With TikTok's future in question, we explore how community and self-reflection can become our secret weapons for overcoming procrastination and achieving our creative goals.  Hear the deeply moving account of visiting sites tied to the Atlantic slave trade, where history books fall short of capturing the true depth of tragedy. Walking through castles and dungeons, and standing at the poignant "last bath" site, offers a perspective that is both heart-wrenching and enlightening. Drawing parallels to visits to places like the National Museum of African American History, we reflect on the significance of sharing these experiences with friends and recognize the weight of the stories these spaces hold. As we edge closer to Kwanzaa, there's an opportunity to honor these histories while looking forward to future celebrations. Celebrate with us as we mark Blair's milestone in her first filmed project, a creative homage to "Living Single." We can't help but express our pride in Blair's multifaceted talents as an actor, writer, and director, all of which shine brightly in this production. Her dedication and passion reignite a creative spark, proving the power of planning, teamwork, and following one's dreams. Amidst some light-hearted gaming anecdotes and TikTok distractions, we also highlight the importance of support and engagement—especially when it comes to Blair's latest accomplishment. Listen in for a mix of laughter, introspection, and a hearty dose of inspiration. Follow US IG: https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast] Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod [https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA] IF YOU WANT TO BE A GUEST OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO WOULD BE A GREAT CHOICE, HIT US UP!!! FEEL FREE TO EMAIL US @highlymelanatedpodcast@gmail.com

Have you ever wondered why we often find success in roles that don't fit the traditional definition of victory? Join us as we reflect on the emotional significance of Kamala Harris's vice-presidency and grapple with the complex choices made by minority voters in America’s recent election cycle. We delve into the perplexities of identity politics and the controversial re-election of certain figures, emphasizing the need for respect and understanding in our political dialogues. Our conversation is steeped in faith and prayer, seeking strength and resilience to push through these challenging times. Amid the chaos of daily life, we cherish the small joys and personal growth found in our busy schedules. Chris shares the delight of balancing work with quality family time, while PJ, or Phillip James, opens up about his journey of self-discovery and embracing his true identity, shedding past personas. Positivity reigns as we focus on “multiplying the good” in our lives, relinquishing negativity, and celebrating community involvement. Our discussion extends to the holiday season, highlighting the overshadowed importance of Thanksgiving in the flurry of early Christmas festivities and the role of civic engagement in fostering change, regardless of electoral results. The episode navigates the intricate web of media influence and misinformation that colors our political landscape. We discuss the impact of media bias and the necessity of diverse perspectives, illustrating how misinformation can strain personal relationships and public trust. With a focus on research and political accountability, we stress the importance of critical evaluation and integrity. We close with hopeful reflections on the potential impact of Kamala Harris’s presidency for women and people of color, and a prayer for guidance as we move forward together, embracing gratitude and unity in the face of uncertainty. Follow US IG: https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast] Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod [https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA] IF YOU WANT TO BE A GUEST OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO WOULD BE A GREAT CHOICE, HIT US UP!!! FEEL FREE TO EMAIL US @highlymelanatedpodcast@gmail.com

Ever found yourself running from a 'Jason' during a family Halloween game, only to laugh about it later? We kick off this episode by sharing personal stories that blend humor and reflection, looking back at a year of unexpected changes and missed moments like Comic-Con and Halloween. While we’ve felt some fatigue, it's also been a year of growth and celebration. We've embraced cultural milestones and the joy of personal achievements, such as exploring the impact of Marvel's Agatha series and teaching a class on anti-gun violence, all while eagerly awaiting Blair's return in November. The conversation takes a lighter turn as we chat about the evolving dynamics of Halloween fun. From humorous costume choices like being a 'hotep' or a 'spotted lanternfly' to the importance of context and safety in pranks, age and maturity seem to have refined our festive tastes. We also discuss a wide range of fears, from the benign — like questionable potluck dishes — to the more significant, like the fear of not using our voices for change. The importance of voting comes to the forefront as we share our dedication to encouraging informed participation in elections, a critical tool for shaping our communities. Our discussion deepens as we explore the fears that accompany relationships and personal identity. We tackle modern family dynamics and the shift from traditional roles, touching on the fear of commitment and the stereotypes that prevent emotional expression. By offering techniques to challenge these fears and anxiety, such as rewarding oneself and adopting a healthier lifestyle, we hope to inspire mental resilience. Throughout, we emphasize that while confronting fear is daunting, it’s essential for success and personal growth. Join us for an insightful episode and don't forget to connect with us on social media as we gear up for a brief hiatus and anticipate exciting returns. Follow US IG: https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/highlymelanatedpodcast] Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod [https://www.twitter.com/H_MelanatedPod] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb2VbyoW6KaMxQo5onYluXA] IF YOU WANT TO BE A GUEST OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO WOULD BE A GREAT CHOICE, HIT US UP!!! FEEL FREE TO EMAIL US @highlymelanatedpodcast@gmail.com