If You Knew Better with Amber Grimes

Candiace Dillard Bassett Knows IVF and Family Planning

In this episode of If You Knew Better, Amber Grimes sits down with Candiace Dillard Bassett for a candid conversation about fertility, IVF, and the deeply personal journey to intentional motherhood. Candiace shares why family planning became a priority [00:00], walks through the beginning of her IVF experience [03:00], and breaks down the importance of genetic testing [06:10] and understanding the IVF process [09:09]. She opens up about navigating hormonal treatments [12:01], overcoming physical and emotional challenges throughout the process [14:54], the realities of egg retrieval [18:11], and processing gender expectations and disappointment [21:01] while learning to trust her own path. Candiace also reflects on the emotional highs and lows of IVF [23:49] and how the experience ultimately reshaped her perspective on motherhood [27:12]. The conversation continues with an honest look at emotional resilience during fertility treatments [32:32], why Candiace chose to publicly share her story to help others [35:54], and the importance of thoroughly researching fertility options [37:50]. Amber and Candiace also discuss the unique healthcare challenges Black women face [40:37], advocating for yourself in medical settings and interracial relationships [43:44], the invaluable role of doulas during childbirth [47:34], and Candiace's labor and delivery experience [50:29]. The episode closes with reflections on balancing music and personal growth [53:34] and how motherhood has transformed her life, purpose, and identity [56:59]. Blending vulnerability, education, and empowerment, this episode offers an insightful guide for anyone navigating fertility, reproductive health, and the evolving journey of motherhood. Follow Amber Grimes on Instagram: @ambergrimes [https://www.instagram.com/ambergrimes] Follow Candiace Dillard Bassett: @therealcandiace [https://www.instagram.com/therealcandiace/] Get Amber's Newsletter on Substack [https://substack.com/@withambergrimes] Watch This Episode on Youtube Thursday at 6pm ET  [https://youtube.com/@iykbetter?si=WMEDSWNJOsxlRkD0] Follow Amber's Book Club [https://www.instagram.com/ambersbookclub/] Get Amber's Book Club Merch  [https://ambersbookclub.com/collections/hats] Read Amber's Favorite Books [https://a.co/d/01GreLFP] See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Shayla Cowan Knows How To Land The Plane

In this episode of If You Knew Better, Amber Grimes sits down with award-winning producer and Collective Edge President Shayla Cowan for an insightful conversation about leadership, career evolution, and building a lasting legacy in entertainment. At (00:30), Shayla is introduced, followed by a look at how she and Amber first connected at (01:12). By 04:15, Shayla shares why she made the move from Los Angeles to New York, and at 06:18, she reflects on her 15-year journey in the industry. At (09:02), she breaks down her rise from executive assistant to manager, including a memorable “sunglasses interview” story at (14:03) that highlights her boldness and work ethic (17:00). The conversation continues with insights on leading as the boss (21:11), balancing comfort and creativity (23:48), and planning major career moves (25:33), all while navigating imposter syndrome (28:16). The episode also dives into the leadership skills that define successful executives, including setting boundaries and leading with empathy. Shayla shares how she manages stress through baking (30:10), self-talk and music (30:34), and offers strategies for handling difficult people (31:36), including her “24-hour rule” (34:50) and approach to disarming tense situations (36:57). She recounts powerful industry moments like the Pulled Up Agency story (38:47), explores the balance between ego and leadership (43:42), and walks through a high-pressure concert contract crunch (46:58). The conversation wraps with lessons on maintaining boundaries and off-hours (49:05), leaving your light on for opportunity (50:55), and putting actionable steps together (52:24), before closing with key takeaways and gratitude at (54:27). Through candid storytelling and practical advice, Shayla offers invaluable lessons on executive leadership, personal growth, resilience, and building influence without sacrificing authenticity. Follow Amber Grimes on Instagram: @ambergrimes [https://www.instagram.com/ambergrimes] Follow Shayla Cowman: @shayla_pc [https://www.instagram.com/shayla_pc/] Get Amber's Newsletter on Substack [https://substack.com/@withambergrimes] Watch This Episode on Youtube Thursday at 6pm ET  [https://youtube.com/@iykbetter?si=WMEDSWNJOsxlRkD0] Follow Amber's Book Club [https://www.instagram.com/ambersbookclub/] Get Amber's Book Club Merch  [https://ambersbookclub.com/collections/hats] Read Amber's Favorite Books [https://a.co/d/01GreLFP] See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Justin Tranter Knows It’s Never Too Late To Pivot

In this episode of If You Knew Better, Amber Grimes sits down with Justin Tranter for a candid conversation about career reinvention, creativity, and finding success on your own terms. Justin reflects on the journey from rock star to hit songwriter [00:00], sharing how understanding the balance between artistry and industry structure [11:20] ultimately led to a major career pivot [20:47]. Justin opens up about recognizing when change is necessary, embracing new opportunities, and discovering the joy of writing songs for other artists [25:52]. The conversation offers valuable insight into navigating the music business while remaining authentic, adaptable, and committed to personal growth. Amber and Justin also explore the realities of sustaining a creative career, discussing the songwriter's journey [27:51], setting meaningful and achievable goals [31:53], and the importance of self-awareness in identifying strengths and limitations [36:25]. Justin shares lessons on pivoting throughout different stages of life and career [39:49], challenges common misconceptions about fame and success [45:01], and explains why embracing both strengths and weaknesses is essential for long-term fulfillment [51:06]. Packed with wisdom for creatives, entrepreneurs, and anyone facing a crossroads, this episode is a masterclass in evolution, resilience, and trusting the path forward.  Follow Amber Grimes on Instagram: @ambergrimes [https://www.instagram.com/ambergrimes] Follow Justin Tranter: @tranterjustin [https://www.instagram.com/tranterjustin/] Get Amber's Newsletter on Substack [https://substack.com/@withambergrimes] Watch This Episode on Youtube Thursday at 6pm ET  [https://youtube.com/@iykbetter?si=WMEDSWNJOsxlRkD0] Follow Amber's Book Club [https://www.instagram.com/ambersbookclub/] Get Amber's Book Club Merch  [https://ambersbookclub.com/collections/hats] Read Amber's Favorite Books [https://a.co/d/01GreLFP] See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Eric Bellinger Knows Men Cry Too

In this episode of If You Knew Better, Amber Grimes sits down with Eric Bellinger for a powerful conversation about emotional safety, vulnerability, and the foundations of healthy relationships. Eric reflects on how grief shaped his emotional journey [03:04], the impact of family dynamics on the way he learned to express feelings [05:58], and the importance of setting relationship standards rooted in trust and communication [09:03] [11:54]. The discussion also explores masculinity and emotional openness [15:13], the role of compromise in long-term partnerships [17:59], and how growth and change can strengthen relationships over time [20:54]. The conversation deepens into the transformative power of vulnerability [24:02] [27:58], navigating emotional safety and trust [30:45], and how grief can become a catalyst for personal growth [32:56]. Eric shares how music became an outlet for expressing emotions [35:21], the role therapy played in his self-awareness journey [39:12], and how fatherhood reshaped his understanding of masculinity [41:29]. Through honest reflections on emotional awareness, reciprocity, and supporting loved ones [48:38] [50:05], Eric offers valuable insight into building stronger relationships, embracing vulnerability, and celebrating fatherhood through both life and music [51:28].  Follow Amber Grimes on Instagram: @ambergrimes [https://www.instagram.com/ambergrimes] Follow Eric Bellinger: @ericbellinger [https://www.instagram.com/ericbellinger/] Get Amber's Newsletter on Substack [https://substack.com/@withambergrimes] Watch This Episode on Youtube Thursday at 6pm ET  [https://youtube.com/@iykbetter?si=WMEDSWNJOsxlRkD0] Follow Amber's Book Club [https://www.instagram.com/ambersbookclub/] Get Amber's Book Club Merch  [https://ambersbookclub.com/collections/hats] Read Amber's Favorite Books [https://a.co/d/01GreLFP] See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Amber Knows Emotions Are Temporary But Decisions Are Permanent

In this deeply personal episode of If You Knew Better, Amber Grimes reflects on the life lessons hidden within her tattoos, using each piece of ink as a marker of growth, grief, love, and self-discovery. From navigating the weight of loss and the emotions that inspired early tattoo decisions [02:54] to lessons learned from impulsive choices in relationships [05:50], Amber explores how significant moments have shaped her perspective over time. She also discusses the illusion of covering up pain rather than addressing it [09:09], the meaning behind friendship tattoos and evolving relationships [11:58], and the temporary nature of trends and external validation [14:53]. The conversation expands into the role boredom can play in poor decision-making [18:12], the story behind her final tattoo and the wisdom passed down from her parents [21:09], and the importance of embracing mistakes as part of the human experience [24:01]. Through vulnerability, humor, and self-reflection, Amber shares valuable insights on personal growth, self-awareness, and the lessons that come from living, learning, and trusting the journey. This episode serves as a reminder that every scar, story, and mistake can become a meaningful part of who we are. Follow Amber Grimes on Instagram: @ambergrimes [https://www.instagram.com/ambergrimes] Get Amber's Newsletter on Substack [https://substack.com/@withambergrimes] Watch This Episode on Youtube Thursday at 6pm ET  [https://youtube.com/@iykbetter?si=WMEDSWNJOsxlRkD0] Follow Amber's Book Club [https://www.instagram.com/ambersbookclub/] Get Amber's Book Club Merch  [https://ambersbookclub.com/collections/hats] Read Amber's Favorite Books [https://a.co/d/01GreLFP] See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.