M&B Media: Exchanging Trauma For Purpose w/ guest Monica Atkins

Ep. 110 The Depression and Me, with guest Katerris Lawrence

What happens when a child's trauma is dismissed by the very people meant to protect them? At just ten years old, Katerris Lawrence was writing suicide notes on her schoolwork while battling depression. Katerris joins us to share her powerful journey from that wounded child to the author of "The Depression and Me," a memoir twenty years in the making. Growing up in Portsmouth, Virginia, where "everybody looked out for each other," Katerris experienced a profound betrayal when her uncle molested her at age nine. The subsequent dismissal of her pain—being told it "wasn't that serious" and expected to interact normally with her abuser at family gatherings—compounded her trauma in ways that shaped her entire life. With remarkable vulnerability, Katerris reveals how she survived those darkest moments through conversations with God that felt more therapeutic than formal counseling. "I would say, 'God, this feels unbearable, can you help me?'" she explains, describing how prayer became her lifeline when professional help fell short. The birth of her son finally gave her a reason powerful enough to keep living, sparking a healing journey that continues today. Beyond sharing her personal story, Katerris offers profound insights about breaking the cycle of silence around trauma, particularly in Black families where "we don't talk about things." Her message to fellow survivors resonates with compassion and clarity: "Whatever happened to you was not your fault... don't carry that weight anymore." Looking forward, Katerris plans to establish a non-profit to create the support system she wishes she'd had, helping trauma survivors navigate their healing journeys. For anyone struggling with depression, childhood trauma, or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers both comfort and courage to keep moving forward.

Building a Legacy of Luxury with Kimberly Mitchell-Waters

What if you could turn the beautiful chaos of simultaneous pregnancies into a thriving business venture? Join us as we share the inspiring story of Mrs. Kimberly Mitchell-Waters, the dynamic founder and CEO of K Mitchell Collections, Growing With Luxury. Sparked by the joy of her daughters' pregnancies and the arrival of her grandsons, Kimberly embarked on a journey to create a luxurious yet accessible legacy brand. She offers a candid look into the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the power of research and innovative marketing strategies to connect with mothers and grandmothers alike. With a daily routine rooted in gratitude and prayer, Kimberly's story is one of perseverance and the ability to inspire others as her brand continues to flourish. Get ready to uncover the secrets of brand protection with Kimberly as she shares the non-negotiable importance of trademarking, drawing from her personal experiences with legalities and the valuable role of mentorship. Discover how K Mitchell Collections stands at the intersection of luxury and sustainability, with a dedication to using high-quality, eco-friendly materials like 100% cotton and bamboo. Kimberly's vision is clear: to establish her brand as a multimillion-dollar, trusted choice for parents who demand both elegance and environmental responsibility. Tune in to be inspired by her journey and gain insights that could transform your own entrepreneurial dreams into reality.

(Ep.108) You're Not Alone with Guest Vikisha Smith

What does it take to find hope in the darkest of times? Join us in a gripping conversation with Vikisha Smith as she bravely recounts the heart-wrenching loss of her daughter, Ke 'Asia Andrea' Adkins in 2018. Through Vikisha's candid and emotional storytelling, we learn about Ke 'Asia's vibrant life, her many talents in dance, sports, and academics, and the unbreakable bond she shared with her mother. Vikisha opens up about the devastating moment she realized her daughter was missing, revealing the layers of grief compounded by the involvement of a family member. This poignant dialogue not only honors Ke' Asia's life but also showcases Vikisha's extraordinary resilience in the aftermath of unimaginable tragedy. My discussion with Vikisha unfolds the complexity of navigating personal trauma while grappling with fractured family dynamics. She shares the relentless search for her daughter, highlighting how technology and relentless determination led to uncovering the truth. As Vikisha reflects on her journey of healing, she emphasizes the importance of therapy, storytelling, and creative outlets. Through initiatives like "Ke' Asia's Angels" and personal projects such as journaling and book publishing, Vikisha transforms personal pain into a powerful force for connection and healing. Tune in to witness the transformative power of sharing one's story and the profound impact it can have on fostering community support and finding peace.

M&B Media: Exchanging Trauma For Purpose w/ guest Monica Atkins

Monica Atkins joins us for a heartfelt exploration of resilience and community impact, sharing her experiences from Newtown, Portsmouth. From playful childhood memories to the profound challenges of teenage motherhood, Monica's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and support. Her story is not just about overcoming personal loss but also about transforming tragedy into a mission to protect and guide the youth of today. Monica candidly opens up about the devastating losses of her mother, cousin, and son, which propelled her to establish Stop the Violence 757, a beacon of hope and change for her community. Her emphasis on the importance of safe sex education and structured guidance for young people today reflects her dedication to preventing others from facing similar hardships. Monica's entrepreneurial spirit shines brightly as she recounts her path to success, from securing a promising career at the Up Center to launching innovative business ventures like Atkins Yard Decor. Her work with after-school programs and support for grieving children showcases her unwavering commitment to nurturing her community. Listen as Monica shares her passion for entrepreneurship, including her unique homemade gravy and detox tea, which she crafts with love and dedication. Her journey is not just about business success but about leaving a lasting legacy of resilience and community empowerment. Join us for an episode that promises to inspire and challenge you to consider the impact one individual can have when driven by purpose and passion.

M&B Media: Breaking Barriers in the Country Music Scene w/ Roberta Lea

Award-winning singer and songwriter Roberta Lea takes the spotlight as she shares her incredible journey from Norfolk, Virginia, to the vibrant heart of the country music scene. We explore her transition from piano to guitar, inspired by her great-grandmother's legacy and her parents' passion for storytelling. Roberta's reflections on the role of narrative in country music reveal a deep, personal connection to the genre, making her story a must-listen for anyone fascinated by the transformative power of music. Together, we paint a vivid picture of how her roots and influences shaped her unique musical style, bringing authenticity and heart to every note she sings. We also address the challenges Black artists face in the country music industry, shining a light on the struggle for recognition and the exciting resurgence of Black musicians redefining the genre. Roberta's insights emphasize the importance of collaboration, both in music and beyond, as she discusses her work as a children's book co-author and her partnerships with talented industry professionals. This episode promises to inspire with tales of resilience and creativity, illustrating how building connections and leveraging collective strengths can lead to extraordinary achievements. Tune in for a conversation brimming with cultural insights and inspiring stories that celebrate the enduring spirit of collaboration and innovation.