#285: What does it take to fully step into your creative calling?In this episode, I sit down with bestselling author Tia Williams to explore her career journey from beauty editor to full-time novelist, proving that sometimes, there isn’t a single pivot—just a path you’ve always been walking.Tia shares how her love for romance fiction shaped her storytelling, why taking risks is key to success, and how writing her own love story helped her discover her true voice.We Also Talk About…Tia’s career experiences as a beauty editor and full-time fiction author.What it takes to get your book adapted for film.How to spark inspiration when you’re in a creative rut.How to turn your messy first draft into something amazing.How to create systems to support your creativity.Resources:Get your tickets to our April 3 live show in NYC.Get your tickets to our April 5 live show in Washington DC.Follow Tia on Instagram7 Days in June by Tia WilliamsThe Perfect Find by Tia WilliamsCheck out the paperback version of A Love Song for Ricki WildePreorder Tia’s new young adult novel, Audre & Bash are Just FriendsCheck out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with LesKeep in touch with She’s So Lucky:Watch on YouTube @shessoluckypodFollow on IG: @lesalfred @shessoluckypodFollow on TikTok @balancedlesSponsors:Quince | Get quiet luxury without luxury prices at Quince. Go to quince.com/balancedles for free shipping and 365-day return on your next order.LMNT | LMNT is a zero sugar electrolyte drink mix with a research-backed ratio of electrolytes. To try it out go to drinkLMNT.com/balancedles to receive a free LMNT sample pack with any purchase.Nutrafol | | Get stronger, healthier hair with Nutrafol. For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering $10 OFF your first month’s subscription and free shipping when you go to nutrafol.com and enter promo code BALANCEDLES.NOCD | NOCD offers accessible OCD treatment. Go to nocd.com and schedule a free 15-minute call with their team.Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode. Produced by Dear Media. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#284: After years of wellness, self-care, and finding balance, it's time for a big change!Get ready, because the Balanced Black Girl podcast is transforming into She’s So Lucky—and I’m bringing you along for the ride.In this episode, I’ll talk about the rebrand, what it means to create your own luck, and how we’re redefining what it means to be lucky in every sense.Resources:Get your tickets to our April 3 live show in NYC.Get your tickets to our April 5 live show in Washington DC.Check out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with LesSome of our favorite episodes from Balanced Black Girl:225: How Reading Fiction Helps Us Raise Our Standards and Practice Self-Care250: 35 Lessons I’ve Learned By My 35th Birthday265: How to Create Your Dream Life with Tricia Lee272: How to Win The Dating Game with Anwar275: The KEY to Turning Your Dreams Into Reality with Louise Hazel277: Mastering Confidence, Career Growth, and Wellness in Your 30s with Briana ThompsonSponsors:LMNT | LMNT is a zero sugar electrolyte drink mix with a research-backed ratio of electrolytes. To try it out go to drinkLMNT.com/balancedles to receive a free LMNT sample pack with any purchase.YNAB | YNAB is a life-changing budgeting app that helps you do what you want with the money you have. Visit www.ynab.com/balanced to get an exclusive three-month trial.Skims | The Fits Everybody collection is available in sizes XXS to 4X. You can shop now at SKIMS.com and SKIMS New York Flagship on FifthAveDeinde | Try Deinde’s Line-Smoothing Eye Cream to fight inflammaging. Go to deinde.com and use code BALANCEDLES at check out for 15% off your first purchase.Pique | Nandaka coffee isn’t just clean—it’s next-level wellness in every sip. Get 20% off plus a FREE starter kit when you shop at Piquelife.com/BALANCEDLESSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#283: What does it really take to start a string of successful businesses?Today, I’m sitting down with Weezy, CEO and founder of TrapHAUS, WTFMedia Studios, and co-host of Decisions, Decisions, to talk about the messy, uncomfortable, and necessary transitions in business and creativity.From rebranding her podcast, to tackling serial entrepreneurship, Weezy opens up about embracing change, handling internet criticism, and leveling up in business.Together, we dive into the power of reinvention, navigating partnerships, and why sometimes, breaking up—with a brand, or an old version of yourself—can be the best move you make.Resources:Check out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with LesFollow Weezy on InstagramCheck out WTF Media StudiosListen to Decisions, DecisionsBook your workout class at TrapHaus and use code BALANCED to get $10 off your first class at checkout!Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:Get your tickets to our April 3 live show in NYC. Get your tickets to our April 5 live show in Washington DC. Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merchWatch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirlFollow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcastFollow on TikTok @balancedlesVisit our website at balancedblackgirl.comSponsors:Timeline Nutrition | Mitopure® promotes cellular renewal and mitochondrial health to address common signs of aging. Go to timeline.com/BALANCEDLES for 10% off your order.Deinde | Fight inflammaging with Deinde skincare. Go to deinde.com and use code BALANCEDLES at check out for 15% off your first purchase.Seed | Take care of your gut health with Seed. Go to Seed.com/balancedles and use code BALANCEDLES to get 25% off your first month.Rocky Money | Rockey Money is a personal finance app that finds and cancels your unwanted subscriptions, monitors your spending, and helps lower your bills so that you can grow your savings. Stop wasting money on things you don’t use. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions by going to www.rocketmoney.com/balancedlesHoneylove | Treat yourself to the most comfortable bra on earth and save 20% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/BALANCEDLESProduced by Dear Media. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#282: In a chaotic world, how do you stay grounded, fuel your creativity, and create real change?In this episode, I sit down with award-winning cultural commentator, author, and political advisor Alencia Johnson to explore what it means to be a cultural disrupter, how to stand out without burning out, and the keys to thriving—even in uncertain times.We also talk about:Building relationships that help you feel seen, heard, and supportedPrioritizing self-care, community, and clear actions for lasting changeMaintaining resilience while facing decision fatigueReconnecting with your creative self through actionable stepsAlencia’s approach to standing up for yourselfThe courage to try and fail in publicResources:Check out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with LesAlencia’s new book: Flip the Tables: The Everyday Disruptor’s Guide to Finding Courage and Making ChangeThe Artist’s Way by Julia CameronKeep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merchWatch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirlFollow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcastFollow on TikTok @balancedlesVisit our website at balancedblackgirl.comSponsors:YNAB | YNAB is a life-changing budgeting app that helps you do what you want with the money you have. Visit www.ynab.com/balanced to get an exclusive three-month trial.LMNT | LMNT is a zero sugar electrolyte drink mix with a research-backed ratio of electrolytes. To try it out go to drinkLMNT.com/balancedles to receive a free LMNT sample pack with any purchase.Deinde | Try Deinde’s Line-Smoothing Eye Cream to fight inflammaging. Go to deinde.com and use code BALANCEDLES at check out for 15% off your first purchase.Hero Bread | Enjoy your favorite breads with fewer net carbs and more fiber. Go to hero.co and use the code BALANCED for 10% off your order.Veracity | Veracity is revolutionizing health by addressing the root cause of energy and weight challenges through drug-free, clinically proven, doctor-formulated, solutions. Visit veracityselfcare.com and use code BALANCEDLES for 15% off your first order.Seed | Take care of your gut health with Seed. Go to Seed.com/balancedles and use code BALANCEDLES to get 25% off your first month.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#281: In this episode, I sit down with the amazing Gabrielle Union—actress, producer, entrepreneur, and bestselling author—about what leaning into vulnerability really looks like.From fertility to relationships to creating a life full of love and creativity, Gabrielle shares the lessons she wishes she’d known sooner—and wisdom to inspire you to get more curious and vulnerable.We also talk about:How reading fosters creativity and curiosityWhy the on-screen adaptations of your favorite reads often differ from the bookHow to express creativity without worrying about who will consume itWhat Gabrielle would tell her 30-year old selfResources:Check out Gabrielle’s new movie Riff Raff in theaters nowFollow Gabrielle on InstagramAtonement by Ian McEwanSeven Days in June by Tia WilliamsSubscribe to my Substack, Balance with LesKeep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merchWatch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirlFollow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcastFollow on TikTok @balancedlesVisit our website at balancedblackgirl.comSponsors:Timeline Nutrition | Mitopure® promotes cellular renewal and mitochondrial health to address common signs of aging. Go to timeline.com/BALANCEDLES for 10% off your order.Deinde | Fight inflammaging with Deinde skincare. Go to deinde.com and use code BALANCEDLES at check out for 15% off your first purchase.Seed | Take care of your gut health with Seed. Go to Seed.com/balancedles and use code BALANCEDLES to get 25% off your first month.Rocky Money | Rockey Money is a personal finance app that finds and cancels your unwanted subscriptions, monitors your spending, and helps lower your bills so that you can grow your savings. Stop wasting money on things you don’t use. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions by going to www.rocketmoney.com/balancedlesHoneylove | Treat yourself to the most comfortable bra on earth and save 20% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/BALANCEDLESNOCD offers accessible OCD treatment. Go to Learn.NOCD.com and schedule a free 15-minute call with their team.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#280: Today I’m popping in for a long overdue solo catch-up session!Join me for a casual solo episode where I’m catching you up on life so far in 2025. I discuss everything from no longer feeling like a “wellness girly,” to reflections of my first year living in New York, to the upcoming podcast rebrand.Make a cup of tea, and cozy up to this intimate chat.Resources:Check out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with LesKeep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merchWatch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirlFollow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcastFollow on TikTok @balancedlesVisit our website at balancedblackgirl.comSponsors:Charmin | You can tell a lot about a date based on what kind of toilet paper they use. Check out Charmin’s socials, @charmin on TikTok and Instagram, to learn more about how Charmin is helping Prevent the Dump!Seed | Take care of your gut health with Seed. Go to Seed.com/balancedles and use code BALANCEDLES to get 25% off your first month.SKIMS | Check out the SKIMS Fits Everybody Collection to find your new favorite pieces. Shop at skims.com or at the New York Flagship on Fifth Ave.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#279: What does it really mean to lead when you're stepping into the unknown?In this episode, I sit down with Kara Brothers, President of Starface World, to explore what it takes to lead in uncharted territory in your career. We discuss everything from balancing business goals with personal growth, to battling imposter syndrome and making fearless decisions.Kara takes us behind the scenes of what it truly means to lead with intention, build confidence, and foster a culture of creativity and innovation in the fast-paced beauty industry—all while stepping into a leadership role of this magnitude for the first time.We Also Talk About…Kara’s career journey to becoming the President of Starface WorldHow to navigate imposter syndrome when stepping into a leadership roleHow corporate culture influences the way you lead and make decisionsStrategies for combating decision-making fatigue and maintaining clarity in challenging situationsThe difference between how you are perceived and how you truly lead in leadership rolesResources:Check out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with LesFollow Starface on InstagramFollow Kara on InstagramCheck out Star BalmKeep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merchWatch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirlFollow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcastFollow on TikTok @balancedlesVisit our website at balancedblackgirl.comSponsors:Neuro Gum | If you’re ready for better sleep, head to www.neurogum.com and use code BALANCEDLES for 15% off your first order of Sleep & Recharge melt away mints.YNAB | YNAB is a life-changing budgeting app that helps you do what you want with the money you have. Visit www.ynab.com/balanced to get an exclusive three-month trial.LMNT | LMNT is a zero sugar electrolyte drink mix with a research-backed ratio of electrolytes. To try it out go to drinkLMNT.com/balancedles to receive a free LMNT sample pack with any purchase.Nutrafol | Get stronger, healthier hair with Nutrafol. For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering $10 OFF your first month’s subscription and free shipping when you go to nutrafol.com and enter promo code BALANCEDLES.Veracity | Support your metabolism with Veracity Self Care’s Metabolism Ignite. Visit veracityselfcare.com and use code BALANCEDLES for 15% off your first order.Deinde | Fight inflammaging with Deinde skincare. Go to deinde.com and use code BALANCEDLES at check out for 15% off your first purchase.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#278: How well do you understand fertility?In this bonus episode, I sit down with Dr. Amanda Adeleye of Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine (CCRM) to break down the biggest myths about reproductive health, from egg quality to the male factor in fertility. We explore how aging, social stigmas, and today’s political landscape impact fertility choices from our 20s to our 40s.Whether you're considering egg freezing or just want to take charge of your reproductive health, this conversation is packed with essential insights!We Also Talk About…The difference between fertility and infertility—and the signs to look for.Common reasons why some people struggle to conceive.How egg quality impacts fertility.The effects of endometriosis on fertility and reproductive health.How to determine if egg-freezing is right for you.What to expect from fertility treatments like IVF.Resources:Check out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with LesLearn more about CCRM’s offerings and find a clinic near youFollow Dr. Amanda on InstagramWhether you’re looking to find a fertility specialist, learn more about a fertility evaluation, or read personal stories from others, you'll be able to find what you're looking for at FertilityOutLoud.com.For more information on fertility, treatment, and reproductive health visit www.ccrmivf.comKeep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merchWatch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirlFollow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcastFollow on TikTok @balancedlesVisit our website at balancedblackgirl.comSponsors:CCRM | Visit CCRMivf.com to learn more about fertility preservation.Ferring Pharmaceuticals | Go to FertilityOutLoud.com to help you feel empowered on your fertility journey.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#277: 30 and thriving or 30 and doubting—where do you stand?In this episode, I’m welcoming back entrepreneur, Nike trainer, and founder & CEO of Spiked Wellness, Briana Thompson, for a real girls' chat about owning your confidence, wellness, and career in your 30s.Briana shares how she’s overcoming self-doubt, balancing ambition and motherhood, and leveling up in both business and life—giving you the inspiration to keep pushing forward and make the changes you need to live life to the fullest.Resources:Check out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with LesFollow Briana on InstagramFollow Spiked Wellness on InstagramEpisode 26: Making Boutique Fitness More InclusiveKeep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merchWatch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirlFollow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcastFollow on TikTok @balancedlesVisit our website at balancedblackgirl.comSponsors:Quince | Get quiet luxury without luxury prices at Quince. Go to quince.com/balancedles for free shipping and 365-day return on your next order.Rocket Monkey | Rocket Money is the app that finds and cancels your unwanted subscriptions and helps lower your bills. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions by going to www.rocketmoney.com/balancedlesLume | Get Lume’s Starter Pack to try all their bestsellers. Use code BALANCEDLES for 15% off your first purchase at www.lumedeodorant.com.Veracity | Support your metabolism with Veracity Self Care’s Metabolism Ignite. Visit veracityselfcare.com and use code BALANCEDLES for 15% off your first order.Deinde | Fight inflammaging with Deinde skincare. Go to deinde.com and use code BALANCEDLES at check out for 15% off your first purchase.Shopify | Get your online business up and running with Shopify. Sign up for $1 per month trial period at shopify.com/balancedblackgirl.Produced by Dear Media. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#276: Have you ever felt like you need to be “fixed” before you can let others in?In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Thema Bryant—psychologist, author, minister, and host of the Homecoming podcast—for a soulful conversation on healing relationships, starting with the most important one: your relationship with yourself.Dr. Bryant shares how self-isolation can hold you back from growth and offers insights on how opening up to others is key to feeling truly healed.We Also Talk About…The balancing act of the healing processThe hidden risks of self-isolationHow to spot toxic patterns in romantic relationshipsHow emotional dependency can affect your friendshipsHow to identify what your relationship patterns for growthHow faith and mental health support can work together for healingResources:Check out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with LesFollow Dr. Thema on InstagramRead Dr. Thema’s new book “Matters of The Heart: Healing Your Relationship with Yourself and Those You Love”Listen to The Homecoming Podcast hosted by Dr. ThemaKeep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merchWatch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirlFollow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcastFollow on TikTok @balancedlesVisit our website at balancedblackgirl.comSponsors:YNAB | YNAB is a life-changing budgeting app that helps you do what you want with the money you have. Visit www.ynab.com/balanced to get an exclusive three-month trial.Nutrafol | Get stronger, healthier hair with Nutrafol. For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering $10 OFF your first month’s subscription and free shipping when you go to nutrafol.com and enter promo code BALANCEDLES.LMNT | LMNT is a zero sugar electrolyte drink mix with a research-backed ratio of electrolytes. To try it out go to drinkLMNT.com/balancedles to receive a free LMNT sample pack with any purchase.Honeylove | Treat yourself to the most comfortable bra on earth and save 20% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/BALANCEDLES.Hero Bread | Enjoy your favorite breads with fewer net carbs and more fiber. Hero Bread is offering 10% off your order. Go to hero.co and use the code BALANCED at checkout.Neuro Gum | If you’re ready for better sleep, head to www.neurogum.com and use code BALANCEDLES for 15% off your first order of Sleep & Recharge melt away mints.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.