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Be Well Sis: The Podcast

Latest episodes

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Jul 2, 2025 • 47min

Navigating Life, Love, and Literature with She Well Read

What does it mean to be well read in 2025? Dr. Cassandre Dunbar sits down with the co-hosts of She Well Read to talk books, balance, and Black joy.In this episode, Cassandre is joined by Alana and Samra, co-hosts of the She Well Read podcast—a book club for every kind of reader. Together, they explore the intersections of creativity, community, and self-discovery while reflecting on their journeys through mental, physical, and spiritual wellness.The conversation spans everything from the challenges of launching a podcast to navigating relationships in your twenties, and how literature can offer both escape and healing. They also reflect on their recent participation in the Black Romance Book Festival—an event that, while now passed, sparked rich discussions on representation, especially for LGBTQIA+ love stories, and the emotional power of romance novels and memoirs.From favorite authors to Beyoncé-themed dinner parties, this episode is a celebration of Black women’s voices, joy, and the many ways books connect and transform us. Key Takeaways:Mental health care should be a constant—not a crisis response.Romance novels can reignite a love for reading and foster emotional connection.Representation in literature—especially LGBTQIA+ stories—matters.Being “well-read” goes beyond book counts; it’s about curiosity, reflection, and connection.Mentioned in This Episode:She Well Read PodcastBlack Romance Book Festival (now concluded, but look out for the 2026 dates and lineup!)Favorite authors like Kennedy RyanAudiobooks, spicy romance, and literary guilty pleasuresDream literary dinner party guests (yes, Beyoncé made the list)🔗 Connect with the Guests:Follow She Well Read on Instagram: @shewellreadFollow She Well Read on TikTok : @shewellreadVisit their website!Listen to the She Well Read podcast on all podcast streaming platformsGuest Spotlight: For Well Read Baddies who love books, pop culture, and everything in between. Best friends Lana and Sam are figuring out how to fit reading into their busy lives. Whether you read all the time, once in a while, or are just picking up your first book in years, this show celebrates all types of readers. It’s a book club on the go with bite-sized, seasonal episodes where listeners vote each season on what gets read. Because being well-read is more than just books—it’s a way of life.**Sign up to my summer of joy journey through my substack here** Connect with me on socials- join the Be Well,Sis tribe on Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube , and subscribe to the newsletter or buy me a coffee!If this episode resonated with you- share with a friend!We’re supporting St Jude’s- head over to www.stjude.org/bewellsis right now and sign up to be a monthly donor. Together, we can make a real impact.Want to get in touch? Maybe you want to hear from a certain guest or have a recommendation for On My Radar? Get in touch at hello@editaud.io with Be Well Sis in the subject line! Have you’re on Not Well, Sis rant to contribute? Click here to send it into the show!Be Well, Sis is hosted by Dr Cassandre Dunbar. This episode was edited by Victoria Marin. Our Production Manager is Kathleen Speckert. Be Well, Sis is an editaudio collaboration. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Jun 25, 2025 • 44min

No Holes Barred: A Conversation with Mandii B

In this bold and honest conversation, Dr. Cassandre Dunbar is joined by the unapologetic and insightful Mandii B — co-host of the Decisions Decisions podcast and co-author of the new book No Holes Barred: A Dual Manifesto of Sexual Exploration and Power.Together, they talk about everything from redefining intimacy and navigating pleasure without shame, to healing from past relationships and reclaiming ownership of our bodies and desires. Mandii shares the personal experiences that shaped her — including her evolving relationship with her mother, the power of therapy, and how New York City’s energy helped sharpen her self-awareness.This episode is an open, necessary dialogue about womanhood, sexuality, and growth — delivered with candor, laughter, and plenty of truth.Takeaways:There’s a big difference between intimacy and sex — and we deserve both.Healing is messy and doesn’t happen on anyone’s timeline but yours.Therapy is a tool, not a weakness.Your story — no matter how complicated — has value and power.You’re allowed to want more: in love, in your body, and in your life.Mentioned in this episode: – Mandii B’s book No Holes Barred: A Dual Manifesto of Sexual Exploration and PowerGuest Spotlight: Mandii B has become one of the most trusted voices on women’s empowerment, sexual liberation, and body positivity. She simultaneously has her finger on the pulse of “the”culture and all things pop culture, music, and business. Before becoming a full-timepodcaster and entrepreneur, Mandii worked as a tax accountant for a Big Four firm afterreceiving a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Business and Marketing. With much to say, Mandii is the co-host and creator of the wildly popular sex-positive, TOP 50-ranking Decisions, Decisions on Black Effect Network on iHeartMedia. Connect with me on socials- join the Be Well,Sis tribe on Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube , and subscribe to the newsletter or buy me a coffee!If this episode resonated with you- share with a friend!We’re supporting St Jude’s- head over to www.stjude.org/bewellsis right now and sign up to be a monthly donor. Together, we can make a real impact.Want to get in touch? Maybe you want to hear from a certain guest or have a recommendation for On My Radar? Get in touch at hello@editaud.io with Be Well Sis in the subject line! Have you’re on Not Well, Sis rant to contribute? Click here to send it into the show!Be Well, Sis is hosted by Dr Cassandre Dunbar. The show is edited, mixed and produced by Megan Hayward. Our Production Manager is Kathleen Speckert. Be Well, Sis is an editaudio collaboration. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Jun 18, 2025 • 10min

Free-ish Since 1863

Juneteenth is often celebrated with cookouts, music, and joy—but beneath the surface lies a powerful question: What does it truly mean to be free?In this reflective solo episode, Dr. Cassandre Dunbar explores the emotional, spiritual, and generational layers of freedom through the lens of Juneteenth and the thought-provoking film Sinners. From the delayed emancipation of enslaved people in Texas to the present-day pursuit of Black liberation, this conversation invites listeners to look inward.What does freedom feel like in your body? In your relationships? In your rest?Through storytelling, cultural critique, and heartfelt reflection, Cassandre challenges us to redefine freedom on our own terms—and to embrace Black joy not as a luxury, but as a birthright and a radical act of resistance.Key Takeaways:Juneteenth is not just a celebration—it’s a call to reflect on what freedom really means.Black joy is resistance. Black rest is revolution.Cultural freedom begins with personal healing.You deserve joy that isn’t rooted in struggle or survival.Freedom is a practice—one that requires care, community, and conscious choice.Sign up to my summer of joy journey through my substack hereConnect with me on socials- join the Be Well,Sis tribe on Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube , and subscribe to the newsletter or buy me a coffee!If this episode resonated with you- share with a friend!-We’re supporting St Jude’s- head over to www.stjude.org/bewellsis right now and sign up to be a monthly donor. Together, we can make a real impact.Want to get in touch? Maybe you want to hear from a certain guest or have a recommendation for On My Radar? Get in touch at hello@editaud.io with Be Well Sis in the subject line! Have you’re on Not Well, Sis rant to contribute? Click here to send it into the show!Be Well, Sis is hosted by Dr Cassandre Dunbar. The show is edited, mixed and produced by Megan Hayward. Our Production Manager is Kathleen Speckert. Be Well, Sis is an editaudio collaboration. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Jun 11, 2025 • 31min

Say Our Names: Sisterhood, Identity, and Joy

What’s in a name? For many of us—especially those with names rooted in culture and history—everything. In this heartwarming episode, I sit down with sisters Peace and Ndidi Amadi, co-authors of the powerful and joy-filled children’s book Chi Chi and Didi Love Their Names.We explore the inspiration behind their debut picture book, which centers two Nigerian-American sisters learning to love and stand proudly in their names. From navigating cultural identity to honoring the immigrant experience, Peace and Ndidi share a deeply personal journey of storytelling, sisterhood, and self-advocacy.Whether you’re a parent, educator, book lover, or someone who has ever had to correct the pronunciation of your name, this episode is a celebration of diversity, belonging, and the magic of seeing yourself reflected in literature.Key Takeaways:Cultural names are stories in themselves—and they deserve respect.Representation in books can shape how children see the world—and themselves.Personal growth often comes through the challenges we didn’t expect but needed.Joy lives in the moments where we choose to be fully, unapologetically ourselves.**Click to her purchase Chichi and Didi Love Their Names!**Guest Spotlight: Although most people now know Peace Amadi by her middle name, her first name is Chinyere and she is the real-life Chichi. Peace is a psychology professor, author, and speaker, and her work lies at the intersection of mental health, faith, and culture.Ndidi Amadi is the real-life Didi and has grown up to become a lawyer, educator, philanthropist and artist. Ndidi’s passion lies in supporting and creating equitable opportunities for underserved communities.Connect with the Authors on Instagram:@itspeaceamadi     and @legallyndidiConnect with me on socials- join the Be Well,Sis tribe on Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube , and subscribe to the newsletter or buy me a coffee!If this episode resonated with you- share with a friend!We’re supporting St Jude’s- head over to www.stjude.org/bewellsis right now and sign up to be a monthly donor. Together, we can make a real impact.Want to get in touch? Maybe you want to hear from a certain guest or have a recommendation for On My Radar? Get in touch at hello@editaud.io with Be Well Sis in the subject line! Have you’re on Not Well, Sis rant to contribute? Click here to send it into the show!Be Well, Sis is hosted by Dr Cassandre Dunbar. The show is edited, mixed and produced by Megan Hayward. Our Production Manager is Kathleen Speckert. Be Well, Sis is an editaudio collaboration. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Jun 4, 2025 • 43min

Drink Water and Mind Your Business

I’m joined by Dr. Donna Oriowo—award-winning therapist, educator, and author known for her bold, no-BS approach to identity, intimacy, and liberation. Together, we unpack the roots of self-esteem and explore how race, gender, and cultural conditioning shape how we see ourselves—and how we can begin to unlearn it all.We talk about:Why self-esteem isn’t just a personal journey—it’s politicalThe role of community and culture in how we view ourselvesThe connection between disembodiment, pleasure, and worthWhat true liberation and worthiness really feel likePractical ways to begin healing your sense of worth through joy, community, and intentionResources You Might Also Like:The Black Joy Playbook by Tracey Michae’l Lewis-GiggettsPast episode with Tracey Michae’l Lewis-Giggetts Be Well, Sis SubstackDrink Water and Mind Your Business by Dr. Donna OriowoThis episode is part of our Summer of Joy series—an invitation to do the deep work of coming back home to yourself with softness, honesty, and community.💌 Stay Connected:Loved this episode?Share it with a friend or your group chatLeave a review on Apple or SpotifyTag us @bewellsis_podcast and @drdonnaoriowo with your favorite momentAnd don’t forget to hydrate and mind your business. 🖤Guest Spotlight: Dr. Donna Oriowo (oreo-whoa!) LICSW, CST, is an award-winning DEI advocate, international speaker and certified sex and relationship therapist in the Washington D.C. metro area. Dr. Donna is the owner of private practice, AnnodRight, which specializes in working with Black women on issues related to colorism and texturism and its impacts on mental and sexual health. Dr. Donna specializes in working with Black women to feel Free, Fabulous, and F*cked! She is the author of Drink Water & Mind Your Business and Cocoa Butter & Hair Grease, and the host of a biweekly community space for Black women called In My Black Feelings. Dr. Donna collects inspiring quotes, eats donuts, loves pasta, travels to learn, gives COVID safe handshakes, warm hugs, and (figurative) knocks on the head.Sign up to my Summer of Joy journey through my substack here for journal prompts related to this episode! Connect with me on socials- join the Be Well,Sis tribe on Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube , and subscribe to the newsletter or buy me a coffee!We’re supporting St Jude’s- head over to www.stjude.org/bewellsis right now and sign up to be a monthly donor. Together, we can make a real impact.Want to get in touch? Maybe you want to hear from a certain guest or have a recommendation for On My Radar? Get in touch at hello@editaud.io with Be Well Sis in the subject line! Have you’re on Not Well, Sis rant to contribute? Click here to send it into the show!Be Well, Sis is hosted by Dr Cassandre Dunbar. The show is edited, mixed and produced by Megan Hayward. Our Production Manager is Kathleen Speckert.Be Well, Sis is an editaudio collaboration.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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May 28, 2025 • 30min

When Will It Be Enough?

Ever feel like you're doing all the things—and still questioning whether it’s enough? In this refreshingly real and laugh-out-loud conversation, I sit down with one of the funniest people I’ve ever met: Eboné, the powerhouse behind The Professional Homegirl Podcast.We talk exhaustion (like existential exhaustion), overachievement, spiritual resets, and how we are constantly navigating invisible pressures—from systemic racism to internalized grind culture. But it’s not all heavy. This is one of those convos that feels like a deep exhale and a glass of wine with your homegirl who gets it.In this episode, we explore:Why everyone (especially Black women) is just so. damn. tired.How to reprogram your mindset and reconnect with imaginationSpiritual practices that anchor us when we’re feeling depletedComparison culture, hustle fatigue, and redefining successA jaw-dropping story from The Professional Homegirl Podcast that’ll leave you stunnedPlus: Behind-the-scenes podcasting real talk and why telling your story might just save someone else's life.Connect with Eboné Almon: Follow her on Instagram → @theprofessionalhomegirl  Check out the show → The Professional Homegirl Podcast wherever you listen Connect with me on socials- join the Be Well,Sis tribe on Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube , and subscribe to the newsletter or buy me a coffee!If this episode resonated with you- share with a friend!We’re supporting St Jude’s- head over to www.stjude.org/bewellsis right now and sign up to be a monthly donor. Together, we can make a real impact.Want to get in touch? Maybe you want to hear from a certain guest or have a recommendation for On My Radar? Get in touch at hello@editaud.io with Be Well Sis in the subject line! Have you’re on Not Well, Sis rant to contribute? Click here to send it into the show!Be Well, Sis is hosted by Dr Cassandre Dunbar. The show is edited, mixed and produced by Megan Hayward. Our Production Manager is Kathleen Speckert. Be Well, Sis is an editaudio collaboration. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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May 21, 2025 • 12min

Motherhood Changed Me — And I’m Still Becoming

In this solo episode, Cassandre explores the emotional and mental shifts that come with motherhood, through the lens of matrescence — the ongoing process of becoming a mother.She shares how a recent experience reshaped her understanding of mothering, identity, and the importance of giving ourselves permission to feel — not just function.From quiet joys to the challenges that often go unnamed, Cassandre offers an honest look at the layered reality of motherhood.This episode is a gentle reflection for anyone who mothers — in ways both visible and invisible — and a reminder that change, vulnerability, and care are all part of the journey.Takeaways:Motherhood is layered, sacred, and often messy.Matrescence is a full-body, whole-life transformation.Black mothers deserve softness, support, and space to feel.You are allowed to evolve, to want more, and to need.Connect with me on socials- join the Be Well,Sis tribe on Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube , and subscribe to the newsletter or buy me a coffee!If this episode resonated with you- share with a friend!We’re supporting St Jude’s- head over to www.stjude.org/bewellsis right now and sign up to be a monthly donor. Together, we can make a real impact.Want to get in touch? Maybe you want to hear from a certain guest or have a recommendation for On My Radar? Get in touch at hello@editaud.io with Be Well Sis in the subject line! Have you’re on Not Well, Sis rant to contribute? Click here to send it into the show!Be Well, Sis is hosted by Dr Cassandre Dunbar. This episode was edited by Victoria Marin. Our Production Manager is Kathleen Speckert. Be Well, Sis is an editaudio collaboration. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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May 14, 2025 • 37min

TV, Identity & Belonging

Who said too much TV isn't good for you? Hosts of the TV Doctor podcast are here to chat about why actually, TV can be the perfect prescription for your wellness. From community, to representation, to escapism, we dive into the many ways in which watching tv might just be what you need. In this episode, Dr. Cassandre Dunbar is joined by media experts Dr. Michele Foss and Ashley Johnson, the dynamic duo behind The TV Doc Podcast. Together, they unpack how television and media shape our sense of identity, belonging, and emotional wellness—especially for Black and mixed-race folks navigating representation and community in an often isolating world. In this episode, we discussed:How TV and media help shape self-perception and racial identityThe emotional and therapeutic impact of nostalgic showsFandom as a powerful form of community and connectionWhy representation on screen matters for our mental healthHow to raise media-savvy, critical-thinking kids in the YouTube ageWhether you're a lifelong Trekkie or someone who finds comfort in rewatching Living Single, this conversation will remind you of the deep impact media can have on our wellbeing.Guest Spotlight: Dr. Michele Foss is what happens when you combine a Professor of Rhetoric and Media in the Department of Communication Studies at Sacramento State University with an unapologetically nerdy pop culture fanatic. From the classes she teaches (ranging from Television Criticism to Media Aesthetics to Communication Theory to Methods of Fandom Studies) to the keynote addresses and invited lectures she delivers, Dr. Foss infuses heart, creativity, inclusivity, and fun into all she does. She uses her three fancy degrees and more than 25 years of boots-on-the-ground experience to make academic concepts accessible and "sticky" for her audiences. She also wears all the hats (creator, producer, editor, writer, and host) for her podcast, The TV Doctor, where she "prescribes" what you should be watching to heal your socio-cultural ailments. She's been recognized by her university for her excellence in teaching, community service, and scholarship/creative activity. Connect with me on socials- join the Be Well,Sis tribe on Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube , and subscribe to the newsletter or buy me a coffee!If this episode resonated with you- share with a friend!We’re supporting St Jude’s- head over to www.stjude.org/bewellsis right now and sign up to be a monthly donor. Together, we can make a real impact.Want to get in touch? Maybe you want to hear from a certain guest or have a recommendation for On My Radar? Get in touch at hello@editaud.io with Be Well Sis in the subject line! Have you’re on Not Well, Sis rant to contribute? Click here to send it into the show!Be Well, Sis is hosted by Dr Cassandre Dunbar. The show is edited, mixed and produced by Megan Hayward. Our Production Manager is Kathleen Speckert. Be Well, Sis is an editaudio collaboration. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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May 7, 2025 • 30min

A Self-Care Reset: Travel, Venting & the Power of Slowing Down

In this solo episode of Be Well, Sis, Dr. Cassandre Dunbar shares reflections on travel, nature, and the power of pause. She recaps a joyful family trip to New Orleans, explores the healing benefits of gardening, and shares her current favorite hair care finds. Plus, she answers the first listener letter in the Not Well, Sis segment—reminding us that venting is a powerful form of self-care.If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed or in need of a reset, this episode offers gentle reminders to slow down, savor beauty, and stay connected.Topics Covered:Family travel as a form of self-careHow gardening supports emotional wellnessFavorite hair care products right nowWhy venting matters for mental healthThe first-ever Not Well, Sis listener letterGot a “Not Well, Sis” submission? I’d love to hear it- Send it in here!Shop the products mentioned in the On My Radar Segment here!We’re supporting St Jude’s- head over to www.stjude.org/bewellsis right now and sign up to be a monthly donor. Together, we can make a real impact.Want to get in touch? Maybe you want to hear from a certain guest or have a recommendation for On My Radar? Get in touch at hello@editaud.io with Be Well Sis in the subject line! Have you’re on Not Well, Sis rant to contribute? Click here to send it into the show!Be Well, Sis is hosted by Dr Cassandre Dunbar. The show is edited, mixed and produced by Megan Hayward. Our Production Manager is Kathleen Speckert. Be Well, Sis is an editaudio collaboration. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Apr 30, 2025 • 26min

You’re Not a Basket Case: Reclaiming Your Mental Wellness with NK

April is Stress Awareness Month, but let’s be honest—many of us have been stress-aware our whole lives. If you’ve been navigating anxiety, people-pleasing, burnout, or just feeling emotionally exhausted... This conversation is for you.In this episode of Be Well, Sis, I’m joined by NK—storyteller, mental wellness advocate, and host of the podcast Basket Case. We dive into an honest conversation about what it means to care for your mental health in real, practical, and deeply personal ways.NK shares her journey of navigating anxiety, internalized shame, and self-loathing—and how relocating to Mexico offered her a new way of living, healing, and connecting to emotional well-being. She also unpacks the power of storytelling to dismantle mental health stigma, and how ceremonial healing practices like temazcal helped her come back to her body and spirit.We explore what it looks like to move beyond surface-level self-care and begin to replenish yourself in ways that are culturally grounded, spiritually aligned, and emotionally honest.In this episode, we discuss:What high-functioning anxiety can feel like and how it shows upWhy storytelling matters in the fight against mental health stigmaNK’s decision to move to Mexico to support her mental wellnessHow conflict can actually strengthen relationships and build community careCeremonial healing and the role of practices like temazcal in emotional releaseWhy self-awareness and accountability are essential for personal growthHow to stop performing wellness and start living it—from the inside outMentioned in this episode:Temazcal ceremony (traditional Indigenous sweat lodge for detox + healing)Basket Case Podcast – a space for honest conversations about mental healthAbout NK: NK is a writer, speaker, and host of the Basket Case podcast—a mental health storytelling platform that centers the experiences of marginalized communities. Her work helps normalize emotional honesty, encourage personal growth, and challenge the systems that contribute to mental distress.🎧 Listen to Basket Case: Click here to listen! 📸 Follow NK on IG here!Stay connected with me:✨ Subscribe to Be Well, Sis wherever you listen to podcasts💌 Subscribe to the newsletter!📱 Follow me on Instagram: @bewellsis_podcast💬 Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it!We’re supporting St Jude’s- head over to www.stjude.org/bewellsis right now and sign up to be a monthly donor. Together, we can make a real impact.Want to get in touch? Maybe you want to hear from a certain guest or have a recommendation for On My Radar? Get in touch at hello@editaud.io with Be Well Sis in the subject line! Have you’re own Not Well, Sis rant to contribute? Click here to send it into the show!Be Well, Sis is hosted by Dr Cassandre Dunbar. The show is edited, mixed and produced by Megan Hayward. Our Production Manager is Kathleen Speckert. Be Well, Sis is an editaudio collaboration. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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