Given Name

*Free* Patreon Bonus Clip: What People Get Wrong about Sickle Cell

Naashon and I ended up having a really meaningful conversation about sickle cell, the stereotypes surrounding it, and the work still being done to support families and communities affected by it. I wanted to share part of that conversation publicly because it felt important. 🤎 More bonus conversations are available on Patreon [https://www.patreon.com/cw/Awkward_PhD].

Naashon, 3 Syllables

Some names sound different at home. In this episode, Naashon (@KingsHomage) reflects on being raised in the Rastafarian tradition, the way her father pronounces her name, and what it means to carry culture through family, stories, and intentional living. A bookseller, mother, and keeper of stories, Naashon reminds us that identity is often preserved in the quietest ways. To listen to the full episode join the Patreon [https://www.patreon.com/cw/Awkward_PhD]!

The Sociology of Grandma: Granny Granny

In this special Season 2 finale, I sit down with Joy Crawford— host of What My Grandkids Call Me [https://www.youtube.com/@whatmygrandkidscallme9060]and lovingly known as Granny Granny—for a warm conversation about motherhood, grandmotherhood, and generational wisdom. We reflect on parenting, loving grandchildren, and the lessons that come with time, including one of Granny Granny’s favorite sayings: “You can’t compete where you don’t compare.” Funny, thoughtful, and full of perspective, this episode closes the season with joy and wisdom across generations.

Cynithis, but Cynethis

In this episode, I sit with one of my line sisters 💙💛🐩, Cynithis (@cyncynsation), for a reflective conversation about heritage, naming traditions, and the legacy carried through family names. We talk about shared first-name syllables across generations, what it means to continue—or break—those traditions, and how identity stretches beyond what we’re called. Thoughtful, slow, and full of quiet wisdom, this episode is one that stays with you.

DaHoya ain’t here, but Da’Joya is

In this episode, we sit with Da’Joya Barnes Majors—better known as Joy—a mother, wife, social worker, professor, coach, and someone who truly embodies her name. She shares the story behind Da’Joya, why Joy is the name that stayed, and how she’s grown into a life full of purpose, care, and brightness. A warm conversation about identity, calling, and becoming who you were named to be.