We're about to get real cozy in this episode of Joyfully Black. Ever wonder why some of us toss and turn at night more than others? Dr. Dayna Johnson is dropping truths on why sleep isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity, especially in black and brown communities. We're talking night owls, early birds, and everyone in between getting shafted on shuteye and how it's messing with our health big time. Plus,  we'll share tips on beating those sleep-stealing villains like insomnia and sleep apnea, with tricks to turn your bedroom into a dreamland. So plug in, unwind, and let's get to the bottom of catching those Z's for a change. ResourcesThe Quest for Sleep documentary The Nap MinistrySleep clinics in your areaStay In Touch With Joyfully BlackHave a-ha moments from today's episode? Let us know! DM us on Instagram @joyfullyblk or text at 850 -404-2712 Want to support our show? Go ahead and click "subscribe" on Spotify and Audible(bonus shimmy for anyone who leaves a five-star review)

In today's episode, our guest has always had a way with words, which was an asset in her over 20-year corporate marketing career at Fortune 100 companies. She is now living her brand story and helping professionals, entrepreneurs, and businesses write theirs. Her own brand story has a plot twist - she’s also a mixologist, completing bartending school in 2019. If you're contemplating the next step, this is the episode for you.What To Listen For:How to pick the one or two things you want to doHow to effectively plan your pivot How to pivot planning can soften the whiplash of transitionWhat’s in Lynn’s self-care tool-box?Books, resources, and podcasts of people who have overcome challenging scenariosResourcesFinding Me by Viola DavisWe Should All Be Millionaires by Rachel RodgersBelieving Bigger by Marshawn Evans DanielsThe Year of Yes, Shonda RhymesConnect with LynnWebsiteLinkedInIG: @thelynnestokesStay In Touch With Joyfully BlackHave a-ha moments from today's episode? Let us know! DM us on Instagram @joyfullyblk or text at 850 -404-2712 Want to...

In this very special episode, we are joined by Jasmine Golden, a Reiki healer and sound bath practitioner, who's here to enlighten us on the transformative powers of these ancient practices. We'll explore the mysterious and beautiful world of energy healing and sound therapy, uncovering how they can help us find balance, peace, and a deeper connection to ourselves. Whether you're familiar with Reiki and sound baths or hearing about them for the first time, today's episode promises to be a journey of discovery, protecting your energy, and healing.What to Listen For:What chakras are and which colors enhance themHow to get yourself energetically back into alignmentHow she transitioned from being an empath to practicing empathyFinding the type of meditation that works for youHow to safely release challenging energy Navigating the opinions of loved ones on her spiritual journeyHow to create spaces for protecting your energy Connect with Jasmine Golden:FacebookInstagramStay In Touch With Joyfully BlackHave a-ha moments from today's episode? Let us know! DM us on Instagram @joyfullyblk or text at 850 -404-2712 Want to support our show? Go ahead and click "subscribe" on Spotify and Audible(bonus shimmy for anyone who leaves a five-star review)

This week, Desiree Cocroft joins us! As a coach who's passionate about transforming leaders, Desiree dives deep into how we can step away from the relentless hustle and overwhelm to embrace what truly matters in both our personal and professional lives.This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to increase their impact, performance, income, and joy, all while being authentically human. Tune in to discover how you can give yourself permission to be and have what you truly desire.What to Listen For:The strategy of consulting your older, wiser selfSurprising pitfalls and challenges among women leadersStrategies to overcome overthinking and analysis paralysisSuccess stories of leaders who have transformed their leadership approach and outcomes through incorporating self-care practicesHow dance and creativity play a role in self-care practicesHow StrengthFinders strengths help Desiree in her mental wellness and self-care journeyResources Mentioned:Get Your Life Today by Desiree Cocroft TEDx Talk: Dancing Your Way to Better LeadershipThe Body Keeps Score by Bessel van der KolkGet Your Life Today by Desiree 4 Hour Workweek by Tim FerrisEssentialism by Greg McKeownThe Science of Getting Rich by Wallace D. WattlesThe Alchemist by Paulo Coelho Untethered Soul by Michael A. SingerPositive Intelligence by Shirzad Chamine Connect with Desiree Cocroft:WebsiteLinkedIn: @desireecocroftmbaYoutube: @desireecocroftStay In Touch With Joyfully BlackHave a-ha moments from today's episode? Let us know! DM us on Instagram @joyfullyblk or text at 850 -404-2712 Want to support our show? Go ahead and click "subscribe" on Spotify and Audible(bonus shimmy for anyone who leaves a five-star review)

We're bringing in 2024 celebrating ur Renaissance expereince where two friends join Joy to discuss the power of community, gratitude, and what Renaissance means to Black womanhood and more.PLUS....we're hosting our FIRST in-person event: The Empower Your Vision Board Pop-up!! Join us on January 20th in Charlotte, NC and register at https://bit.ly/joyfullyblackvisionStay In Touch with UsInstagram: @joyfullyblkEmail: joyfullyblk@gmail.com

In this special pre-holiday episode, psychiatrist Dr. Tanya A. Royster joins us to unravel the intricacies of festive season emotions. Together, we explore the crucial importance of self-care, especially for women, during this bustling period. Dr. T shares expert advice on managing family expectations, recognizing signs of holiday-related stress, and the heartfelt reminder that sometimes, just being present is the best gift of all. We delve into the rejuvenating power of crafting new traditions and the essence of proactive planning to ensure a smoother, joy-filled season. Dr. T also sheds light on the true spirit of giving back without overwhelming oneself and offers compassionate guidance on navigating the poignant challenges of grief and loss during festive times. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation filled with actionable insights to make your holidays both joyous and mindful.What To Listen For9:55 The importance of self-care during the holidays, especially for women.14:16: How to proactively manage family expectations or holiday discomfort 15:55: How to know when you’re experiencing holiday-related stress19:21  Understanding that your presence is the present23:20: Create new traditions 25:20: Plan ahead to make your holiday season easier27:33: How you can still “give back” with less stress29:43: How to navigate grief and loss during the holidays34:35: What Dr. Royster creates space for in her lifeWhere to Find Dr. TInstagram: @drt4abetterworldLinkedin: Tanya A. Royster, MDFrom My Soul To Yours podcastBooks + Resources Mentioned:From My Soul To Yours podcastStay In Touch With Joyfully BlackI'm Every Woman by Whitney Houston Fight Song by Rachel Platten

On today’s episode, Joy sits down with Kimberly Michelle, a two-time breast cancer thriver and owner of the breast cancer apparel boutique, Au Revoir. She speaks candidly about leaning on her faith, the significance of mental health, and the continuous need for support even after treatments. Dive into Kim's journey as she moves from being a misdiagnosed cancer patient to an advocate and beacon of hope for many.What To Listen For:Navigating having a mastectomy at 36 years oldHow to support loved ones with cancerThe myth of the perfect patientWhat nourishes Kim's soulWhere to Find Kimberly Michelle Wyatt:Website IG: asurvivorslife_36Resources Mentioned:The American Cancer SocietyReach To Recovery: Breast Cancer SupportStay In TouchInstagram: @joyfullyblkEmail: joyfullyblk@gmail.com

Join host Joy as she takes you on a captivating journey through her experience at the Essence Festival, a celebration of the Black culture, music, food ,and more. This week, Joy shares the top three lessons learned from the festival. From the power of sisterhood that transcends boundaries to the choice of either letting statistics paralyze or motivate you, and the importance of honoring one's unique gifts, this podcast episode explores the transformative potential of unity, resilience, and self-discovery. Tune in toas Joy highlights the incredible experiences and lessons she gained from this empowering event.Resources Mentioned2023 Essence Panel - A Celebration of Legacy: The Color PurpleMama GlowStay In Touch With Joyfully BlackSubscribe to our email list: www.joyfullyblk.comFollow on Instagram: @joyfullyblkWrite a 5-star review on Spotify

On today's episode, we speak with a go-to therapist on setting boundaries, Monque Williamson. If you've ever been ghosted, considered ghosting someone in your life, or want to get better at establishing clear bounderies with people in your life, then this is the episode for you.  Through her experiences as a psychotherapist, she took an interest in encouraging others to try new paths to find balance and improve their overall wellness. Over the past 8 years, Monique has impacted hundreds of lives as a therapist and CEO of Enriched LLC.  Join us as we talk personal rules of engagement, minconceptions about boundary setting, and what to do instead of going full ghost on people in your life.What to Listen For:1:47 Identify personal rules of engagement2:45 What are the most difficult boundaries to set?5:45 Strategies for boundaries when it’s an unfamiliar practice7:47 Monique's framework for setting boundaries with families 15:00 Misconceptions about boundary setting17:41  What is the difference between a boundary and not wanting to take a certain action19:27 Tips on how to avoid overexplaining when you want to say no to someone21:42: Monique’s path to establishing boundaries33:10: When boundaries become the need to cut someone off35:05: What is sunsetting and using it instead of ghosting37:00: Recommendations for sunsetting relationshipsWhere to Find MoniqueFacebook: www.facebook.com/becomingenrichedInstagram: www.instagram.com/becomingenrichedLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/moniquewill1 Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/becomingenrichedBooks + Resources Mentioned:The Life Changing Magic of Nor Giving A F*ck and Get Your Sh*t Together by Sarah KnightTEDx Talk: The Magic of Not Giving A F*** The Four Agreements by Don Miguel RuizDaring Greatly by Brene BrownThe Alchemist by Paulo Coelho Stay In Touch With Joyfully BlackSubscribe to our email list: www.joyfullyblk.comFollow on Instagram: @joyfullyblk

Today's guest is Emmy award-winning filmaker, Santana Coleman. Filmmaker & lifelong storyteller, Santana Coleman, is the co-producer & Impact Campaign Advisor of Emmy-Award-Winning documentary, When Claude Got Shot. Along with a creative partner, Santana is the co-creator of comedy television series, 'Black Girl Training' and she's currently in pre-production of short film The Last Week, where she will serve as writer, director, and producer in her directorial debut. Join us as we have an honest, no- holds barred conversation on maintaining fortitude while pursuing your dreams, accepting personal limits as self-preservation, and a bit of ki-king on reality tv and urban fiction as an unexpected form of self-care.RecommendationsHustle Harder, Hustle Smarter by 50 CentWe Over Me: The Counterintuitive Approach to Getting Everything You Want from Your Relationship by Khadeen and Devale EllisBlack Privilege: Opportunity Comes to Those Who Create It by Charlamagne Tha GodStay In Touch With Joyfully BlackHave some a-ha moments from today's episode? Let us know! DM us on Instagram @joyfullyblk or text at 850 -404-2712 Want to support our show? Go ahead and click "subscribe" on Spotify, Audible, or Google podcast (bonus shimmy for anyone who leaves a five-star review)

In this episode, Joy has a candid conversation with Tiffany Lanier on navigating and embracing messy life transitions. Tiffany is the leading voice in personal growth, change, and wellbeing. As a Public Speaker, Facilitator, and Founder of The Morning Shift Co, Tiffany helps individuals and organizations initiate personal and collective change through intentional morning experiences that support how they live, lead and work. Tiffany lives by a very simple yet potent motto: Live Purposefully and Lead Consciously. Her life motto certainly rings true throughout our conversation. After navigating postpartum depression, launching a business, and a cross country move, Tiffany found herself mourning the loss of her former self and searching for a way to reconcile her new role as mother and thriving entrepreneur. Today she shares lessons on embracing life transitions, how a morning routine changed her life, why she decided to extend maternity leave despite loving her work, and her waiting to exhale moment. We also laugh our way through advice she'd give her younger self.What  to Listen For:Navigating post-partum depression, entrepreneurship, and cross country moves 1:05The question that changed her life 6:00What led her to rediscover her life during Going through identity death 14:30 Coming to terms with new identity after motherhood 14:45Strategies for coping with changing role identity 17:17Giving grace with transitions 20:13The practice of learning to rest 23:03Overworking as internalized trauma 26:33Making the conscious decision to pause and extend maternity leave 32:35Giving herself the opportunity to be present 35:12Her “Waiting to Exhale’ Moment 36:40Advice to her younger self 42:33What she absolutely makes space for 48:55Where to Find Tiffany:Website: www.themorningshift.co and livewithtiffany.comIG: @LivewithtiffanyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanylanier/Books + Resources Mentioned:I Can't Wait to Vote by Tiffany LanierThe Politics of Trauma Breathwork CertificationStay In TouchInstagram: @joyfullyblkEmail: joyfullyblk@gmail.com

In this episode, we're joined by Nikki Klugh,a highly sought-after award-winning interior and principal designer and founder of Nikki Klugh Design Group. She is NCIDQ qualified, a true color expert, and a member of the American Society of Interior Designers and the International Interior Design Association. If you ever wanted to know how to create sacred spaces that spark joy or learn how to prioritize self-care while being a health advocate for a family member, this is the episode for you!What To Listen For:Nikki’s journey to becoming an award-winning designer [01:59]The birth of Nikki designing to her senses [05:36]The vital elements to make a space feel inviting and tranquil [09:55]Common misconceptions when designing sacred spaces [12:23]The steps to creating a practical and functional space [14:57]Nikki’s self-care journey [16:46]Nikki's tips on taking care of her well-being while becoming an unexpected mental health advocate [21:19]Resources that helped her as mental health advocate for loved one [27:51]How to foster deep joy and excitement [30:05]What nourishes Nikki’s soul so much she absolutely for it? [32:33]Episode Quotables:We design our spaces, and then our spaces design us.” – Winston ChurchillGo and do the thing that makes you happy.Despite the forest and briar patches you might be going through, there is something else on the other side.What are those things that really satisfy you? Make that happen. Go after it! Connect with Nikki Klugh:Website: https://nikkiklughdesign.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikkiklughdesign/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkiklugh/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NikkiKlughDesign/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/nikkiklughdesigngroup/Stay In Touch With Joyfully BlackHave some a-ha moments from today's episode? Let us know! DM us on Instagram @joyfullyblk or text at 850 -404-2712 Want to support our show? Go ahead and click "subscribe" on Spotify, Audible, or Google podcast (bonus shimmy for anyone who leaves a five-star review)

Remember that phrase "A closed mouth doesn't get fed"? This episode is a prime example of how to communicate so you can stop feeling sick and tired and start blooming and thriving. Our guest is Dr. Avis Jones-DeWeever, an award-winning author, policy expert, serial entrepreneur, and the go-to source for normalizing Black Success, Wealth, and Fulfillment.In this episode, Dr Avis shares her entrepreneurship journey, how she celebrates and takes care of herself, how to have courageous conversations, and the power of saying “no,” and more.What to Listen For:Dr. Avis's journey from policy to entrepreneurship [02:05]   The turning point in Dr. Avis's life that changed everything [05:06]Do you take time to celebrate your wins? [07:56]How Dr. Avis creates time to pause, reflect and celebrate her wins [10:45]The essence of taking care of yourself [12:48]Taking care of yourself as a mom [14:40]How to have courageous conversations [16:14]Who inspired Dr. Avis to take care of herself? [19:57]  Where do women get it wrong when it comes to having courageous conversations? The rules of engagement [25:06]It is okay to say “no” [31:02]What nourishes Dr. Avis's soul so much that she creates space for it? [33:12]   What can we expect from Dr. Avis next? [34:37]Episode Quotables:“Things can be lost or broken. But memories last forever.”“One of the most powerful words in the English language is no. Use it liberally.”“You must express what you want to get what you need.”“If my cup isn’t filled, I cannot pour anything out for anybody else.”“The nature of humanity is that we are interconnected. You are not meant to doeverything on your own.”“Taking care of you puts you in the physical and mental space where you can become more creative.”Connect with Dr. Avis :Website: https://dravismentoring.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dravismentoring/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dravisjonesdeweever/ Stay In Touch With Joyfully BlackHave some a-ha moments from today's episode? Let us know! Join the conversation on our Instagram @joyfullyblk or text at 850 -404-2712 Want to support our show? Go ahead and click "subscribe" on Apple and "follow" on Spotify (bonus shimmy for anyone who leaves a five-star review)

We're back with Season 2 and a quick recap about what's been going on since Season 1: India, rethinking yoga, and more! Plus, new segments for this season.Get in Touch:Instagram: @JoyfullyBlkSend a text or voice note: 850-404-2712Email us: JoyfullyBlack@gmail.comIf you liked this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and tell your friends!

How are we already celebrating the Season Finale of Joyfully Black?! Join us as Host Joy Dixon reflects on Season 1 and who Joyfully Black has impacted. Did you enjoy today's episode? remember to subscribe and leave a 5-star review on Apple and Follow on Spotify.Stay In Touch@joyfullyblkJoyfully Black websiteEmail us

On this week's show, we bring you the effervescent ShaCarolyn H. Stephens, a leadership and diversity coach. ShaCarolyn is a graduate of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University where she studied Molecular and Cellular Biology. Halyard's educational credentials also include a Masters degree in Positive Psychology with a concentration in Life Coaching. ShaCarolyn has also earned a Masters degree in Divinity with a triple concentration in Religion and Race, Witness and Formation, and Justice, Peace, and Conflict Transformation from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University. After surviving a brutal rape, and rebounding from her battle with failing health, ShaCarolyn is no stranger to adversity. She has chosen to use the tools she's learned in life and higher education to assist adults and teenagers in discovering and living their true purpose. In this episode, we discuss authenticity, identifying the difference between imposter syndrome and when a space isn't for you, and deciding not to be known for a condition. From sharing how stubbornness saved her life to building a successful coaching practice, and navigating life as a faith leader and newlywed...we truly could have talked for hours. Have some a-ha moments from today's show you want to share? Join the conversation on our Instagram @joyfullyblkWant to support our show? Go ahead and click "subscribe" on Apple ( bonus shimmy for fo anyone who leaves a five- star review) or "follow" on Spotify.What To Listen ForThe calling to heal the spirit not the body 3:05Working at the intersection of psychology, biology, and theology 8:40Authenticity as a life thread 10:32Reconciling the difference between imposter syndrome vs. not being in the right space 14:20How to refuel as a natural giver 22:59How being stubborn saved her life 38:33The Howard Thurman quote that freed her 53:13The best rule-breaking experience she ever had at 55:40Guest Resources MentionedThe Upside of Your Dark Side by Dr. Robert Biswas-Diener and Dr. Todd B. KashdanPreparing To Be A Help Meet by Debbie PearlSingle, Dating, Engaged, Married by Ben Stuart Discerning The Voice of God by Priscilla ShirerAny book by Howard Thurman For more from ShaCarolyn, follow her on Instagram, LinkedIn, or connect on her website. Also, check out Queen's Boutique which provides a portion of proceeds to woman who is in a life transitionThanks for listening!

On today’s episode, Anita Asante joins the show to share on the superpower of staying in your own lane and how it’s created a life she is proud of. Anita is a self-described Jack of all trades, an attribute that has served her well as the Founder of B L A N C • N O I R consulting and Head of Global  Partnerships  at Afropunk, When this London- bred brand strategist isn’t handling seven figure client deals, she’s bringing a fresh perspective in the luxury creative and entertainment industry. Join us as we discuss the merits of creating a time-rich life and staying in your own lane as forms of self-care. Whether it’s creating space for travel or exercising the power of no, Anita shares how she stays booked and busy while making time for rest. Please be sure to tag me @joyfullyblk on Instagram and Anita @__byanita and share this episode with your community to spread the word If you or someone you know has benefited from this episode. I am curious to hear all about your experience staying in your lane or how staying in your lane has benefited you!What to listen for:Set boundaries and blocks 3:45-4:02The defining moment that  shifted her approach to boundaries 6:13 The power of saying no 8:33What’s in her self-care tool box 17:48Setting benchmarks to be time-rich 9:04Developing a natural scalp product line, Scalp Good 21:44Who inspires Anita to show up fully 24:23Advice she’d give her younger self 26:03Steps to move from self-doubt to self- affirmation 29:17Comparison as the thief of joy 30:05Travel as nourishment 34:29The joy of setting out of one’s comfort zone 36:31Links/ResourcesHairvolution: Her Hair, Her Story, Our HistoryScalp GoodStay ConnectedAnita Asante on InstagramFollow Joyfully Black on Instagram

In this episode, Joy has a candid conversation with Dr. ZaDonna Slay on her burnout breakthrough. Dr. Slay is an administrative social worker, nonprofit professional, and university instructor.After graduating from college at the age of twenty, today’s guest achieved her dream role as a nonprofit Executive Director at twenty-five years old. Despite thriving in her career, ZaDonna found herself plagued with imposter syndrome and burnout. Today she shares her burnout breakthrough, how faith and community sustained her, and the power of dance and self-forgiveness on her journey.What to listen for:Burnout symptoms look different among Black women 16:17What helped ZaDonna recenter and recover from burnout 25:23What is in ZaDonna’s mental wellness pocketbook 28:29The role of dance and movement in burnout recovery 31:37Advice to her 19-year-old self 34:13Her theme for 2022  42:35How self-forgiveness brings joy 42:41Where to find Dr. ZaDonna SlayInstagram: @drzslay Twitter: @drzslayResourcesMotivation AppUnited State of WomenStay ConnectedInstagram: @joyfullyblkJoyfully Black WebsiteIs there a topic you'd like covered on the podcast? Email JoyfullyBlack@gmail.comTag @joyfullyblk with your favorite highlight from this episodeIf you enjoyed this episode, like us on Instagram and share it with a friend!

Joy Dixon Paul discusses the unexpected joy of being seen during the Supreme Court confirmation hearings and provides a 1st Quarter Review on 2022 intentions to date. Also, episode programming update!Subscribe and leave a 5 star review on Spotify, Amazon Music, Stitcher, and Google Podcast.Stay In Touch With UsInstagram: @joyfullyblkEmail: joyfullyblack@gmail.comTag us using #joyfullyblk

In this episode, we have a conversation with Teanika Hoffman and Nicklaine Paul on using self- advocacy as self-care while living with Sickle Cell Disease. Teanika is an entrepreneur and the Executive Director of the Sickle Cell Coalition of Maryland. Nicklaine is a Registered Nurse and the Founder of Sickle Care Solutions. Today they share their journey as entrepreneurs living with Sickle Cell Disease, how boundary setting is a form of self-care, and the delight of random travel and sister bonding time.What to listen for:Taking the leap into entrepreneurship in SE Asia 7:39Learning self-advocacy as a young child 7:59Health outcomes as the sum of a broader picture 11:31What Sickle Cell Disease is and how it impacts the body 18:42How setting boundaries improves physical health 35:40Being an active participant in your medical care 37: 41Making yourself a priority 42:49Self-forgiveness as self-care 43:41Connect with NicklaineInstagram: @sicklecaresolutions www.sicklecaresolutions.org Connect with TeanikaInstagram: @teanikahoffmanwww.chroniclysickle.comStay In Touch With UsInstagram: @joyfullyblkEmail: joyfullyblack@gmail.comTag us using #joyfullyblk