Be Well Sis: The Podcast

Do you often forget to take a moment to just pause and take a breath? This week I thought I’d sit down and catch you up properly on how I’m doing and where I’m at right now. This time of year we remember those goals we set ourselves on New Years Eve and realise we may have bitten off more than we can chew! So let’s take a moment to reflect, readjust and restart. 💌 Got something you need to get off your chest?Send in your story, rant, or “Not Well, Sis” moment to be featured on the show! Because sometimes, life is a lot- and venting is self-care too. Click here to send in your submission or slide into my DMs on IG @bewellsis_podcast with “Not Well, Sis” in the subject. You can stay anonymous if you’d like!Let’s normalize saying, “Nope, I’m not okay- and here’s why”.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.

I sit down with Amanda Miller Littlejohn for a deep and necessary conversation about rest, self-care, and the societal pressures that often lead to self-betrayal, especially for us. We talk about how overworking becomes ingrained in our muscle memory, making it hard to slow down, and how the “strong Black woman” trope pushes us to constantly prove ourselves.Amanda and I explore the cultural perspectives that shape our relationship with rest and why it’s so important to incorporate daily practices that help us reconnect with ourselves. We also discuss the challenges of navigating midlife while balancing responsibilities and how identifying our sacred work can bring more joy, ease, and fulfillment into our lives. This episode is an invitation to redefine rest- not as a reward, but as a revolutionary act of self-preservation.In this episode, we discussed: How the "strong Black woman" trope creates unrealistic expectationsWhy overworking becomes ingrained muscle memory- and how to break freeThe importance of daily self-care practices for staying groundedHow self-betrayal manifests and leads to burnout, especially in midlife The role of cultural perspectives in shaping our understanding of rest Why identifying and embracing sacred work is key to a fulfilling lifeHow rest can be a revolutionary act against a productivity-obsessed cultureThe connection between joy, authenticity, and pursuing personal passionsGuest Spotlight:Amanda Miller Littlejohn explores burnout, our relationship to work, and how to find alignment at work and in life. She is a sought after executive coach and brand strategist whose clients span the globe from San Francisco to Singapore. An accomplished freelance journalist, Amanda is a 2024-2025 Rosalynn Carter Mental Health Journalism Fellow. Her writing has appeared in The Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and Forbes and explores the mental health challenges and opportunities of high-achieving midlife professionals.How to Connect  with Amanda:X - @amandamogulIG - @iamamandamillerlittlejohnin - in/amillerlittlejohnFB - @AmandaMillerLittlejohnConnect 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 have a Not Well Sis rant or a recommendation for On My Radar? Get in touch at hello@editaud.io with Be Well Sis in the subject line! 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.

Have you ever looked in the mirror and thought, “Wow, I look older than I feel?” Or maybe a birthday has made you rethink your entire self-image. If so, this episode is for you! Today, we’re diving into the science behind aging- what actually happens at the cellular level, why some people seem to age in reverse, and how we can embrace aging while optimizing our health and vitality.In this solo episode, I discuss: Why aging is not the enemy but a privilegeThe myths about aging that we've been led to believeThe real science behind metabolism, muscle loss, and genetics in agingHow stress and systemic factors contribute to accelerated aging in Black womenThe role of telomeres in aging and how we can protect themActionable strategies to slow down aging and remain as vibrant as our Hollywood faves ( we see you Tracee Ellis Ross, Gabrielle Union, and Halle Berry!)Listen to our episodes with Jasmine Marie here, and Dr Romie here.Ways to Support the Podcast✔️ Leave a 5-star rating & review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify – Let’s hit 500 reviews!✔️ Subscribe on YouTube – We’re growing our community there, so hit like & subscribe!✔️ Screenshot this episode, tag @bewellsis_podcast, and share on your IG stories!💌 Want to stay connected? Join us on Substack for updates, resources, deep dives, and community!Until next time, Be Well, Sis.- Want to get in touch? Maybe you have an AITA you need solving or a recommendation for On My Radar? Get in touch at hello@editaud.io with Be Well Sis in the subject line! 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.

In this episode, I sat down with Toya Coleman to explore the powerful intersection of wellness, self-care, and activism through the lens of the Black Panther Party's legacy.  Our conversation highlighted the often-overlooked contributions of women in the Black Panther Party and examined holistic approaches to health that address the historical mistrust in Western medicine. We also explored how activism extends beyond traditional protesting, embracing community involvement like beach cleanups and gardens as legitimate forms of political resistance.In this episode, we discuss:The Black Panther Party’s wellness legacyRedefining activism Accessible wellness practices The power of community and connectionGuest Spotlight: Toya is a podcaster, writer, speaker, novice surfer (kindergarten level), juggler, plant mom, tattoo enthusiast and historian. You might know her as  Toya From Harlem, a former blog mostly instagram destination for millennials of color to uncover historical places they pass by every day, learn the history that wasn't in their textbooks, see dope art by people of color, and find cultural events in LA and NYC. In 2020 she launched That Wasn’t In My Textbook-a bi-weekly podcast that helps us uncover the things we always wished we learned from the boring bulky textbook.Whether you call her your Historian Homie, Trap Historian, Historian Hottie, or your Griot, Toya is essentially the Anthony Bourdain of history.Connect with Toya-Listen to her podcast!Visit her website!Follow her on Instagram here and here!***Connect with me on socials- join the Be Well,Sis tribe on Instagram and YouTube!***Want to get in touch? Maybe you have an AITA you need solving or a recommendation for On My Radar? Get in touch at hello@editaud.io with Be Well Sis in the subject line! 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.

In this solo episode, we explore how relationships impact our health, contrasting toxic connections with nurturing ones. We discuss "strong Black woman syndrome," excessive emotional labor expected from women, and the importance of recognizing red flags and building supportive communities.Key TakeawaysSelf-care includes cultivating healthy relationshipsToxic relationships drain energy and affect physical healthBalance healthy interdependence with independenceRecognize hyper-independence as a potential trauma responseHealthy connections should feel supportive, not exhaustingBuild and maintain strong community support networksWhat’s On My Radar:Click here to see all my beauty faves!  Connect with me on socials- join the Be Well,Sis tribe on Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube and follow the newsletter!Want to get in touch? Maybe you have an AITA you need solving or a recommendation for On My Radar? Get in touch at hello@editaud.io with Be Well Sis in the subject line! 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.

Dr. Candice Nicole Hargons joins us to discuss her groundbreaking book and research on sexual wellness, focusing on inclusive perspectives and breaking down cultural barriers. Learn how to foster healthier conversations about sexuality, navigate sex-positive parenting, and challenge common misconceptions about intimacy.In this episode, we discussed:Defining good sex as mutually beneficial and enjoyableBreaking down cultural and historical barriers to sexual expressionNavigating sex-positive parenting and educationExploring desire, kink, and diverse relationship stylesDebunking myths about body count, spontaneity, and adult contentGuest Spotlight: Dr. Candice Nicole Hargons is an award-winning psychologist and associate professor at Emory University. She is author of Good Sex: Stories, Science, and Strategies for Sexual Liberation. Content Note: Contains mature discussions about sexuality.***Connect with me on socials- join the Be Well,Sis tribe on Instagram and YouTube!***Want to get in touch? Maybe you have an AITA you need solving or a recommendation for On My Radar? Get in touch at hello@editaud.io with Be Well Sis in the subject line! 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.

Today we’re joined by EbonyJanice, author of 'All the Black Girls Are Activists', for an expansive conversation that weaves together themes of activism, identity, rest, and ancestral wisdom. Through personal narratives and cultural insights, Ebony explores how activism manifests in the daily existence of Black women, challenging traditional definitions of resistance and self-care. The discussion explores the complexities of Black Girl Luxury, examining how privilege intersects with responsibility while unpacking the revolutionary act of choosing softness in a world that demands hardness. From the historical context of reparations to the spiritual significance of ancestral veneration, this conversation offers a rich exploration of healing, identity, and the divine right to wellness within the Black community.Guest Spotlight: EbonyJanice is the founder and CEO of The Free People Project and The EbonyJanice Project, and author of "All The Black Girls Are Activists: A Fourth Wave Womanist Pursuit Of Dreams As Radical Resistance." A cultural anthropologist and spiritual mentor, she created the "Dream Yourself Free" program supporting Black women in healing and pleasure prioritization. She founded Black Girl Mixtape, a platform elevating Black women's intellectual authority, and led the All The Black Girls Are Bestsellers Campaign, raising over a million dollars to support Black femme authors through independent bookstores. EbonyJanice holds degrees in Cultural Anthropology, Political Science, and a Masters in Social Change, focusing on Spiritual Leadership, Womanist Theology, and Racial Justice.Episode Takeaways:Activism manifests in various forms, including the revolutionary act of rest and self-careThe journey to softness requires unlearning societal expectations and embracing vulnerabilityAncestral veneration provides crucial guidance for understanding identity and purposeBlack Girl Luxury encompasses more than materialism—it's about divine right to wellnessCommunity healing requires acknowledging both collective trauma and joyWant to get in touch? Maybe you have an AITA you need solving or a recommendation for On My Radar? Get in touch at hello@editaud.io with Be Well Sis in the subject line! 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.

In this fascinating episode, we sit down with Juliet Obodo to unpack the transformative potential of self-hypnosis and its unique benefits for individuals with ADHD. Through personal insights and professional expertise, Juliet demystifies common misconceptions about hypnotherapy while sharing practical techniques for harnessing the power of the subconscious mind. The conversation explores how deep-rooted identity blocks and limiting beliefs impact everything from emotional regulation to financial success. Learn how self-hypnosis can be a powerful tool for building self-trust, managing performance anxiety, and addressing burnout at its core. Whether you're curious about hypnotherapy or seeking alternative approaches to personal growth, this episode offers actionable insights into reclaiming your personal power and creating lasting change that ripples through your community.Guest Feature: Juliet Obodo's journey spans from pharmaceutical research to entrepreneurial success and transformative healing. After graduating with a B.A. in Psychology and minor in Biology, she began her career in pharmaceutical research and technical writing before pivoting to tech sales, where she excelled as a top sales representative and manager. Following her corporate success, she embarked on a transformative journey through Europe and Africa, during which she authored two best-selling books. Upon returning, she launched two successful tech and startup funding businesses. The experience of running multiple six-figure companies led to severe burnout, which ultimately guided her to rediscover NLP and Hypnosis. This personal transformation inspired her to become a certified Master Hypnotherapist and NLP Practitioner, while simultaneously pursuing a Ph.D. in Neuroscience. Today, through her practice, FWRD Institute, she designs brain training programs for business, career, and personal mastery. She also leads FWRD Youniversity, where she trains high-achieving millennials to become hypnotic coaches, hypnotherapists, Hypno-Somatic Practitioners, and Financial Hypnotherapists.Episode Takeaways:Self-hypnosis offers powerful tools for emotional regulation and personal transformationUnderstanding ADHD's unique characteristics enhances self-hypnosis effectivenessIdentity blocks and limiting beliefs directly impact financial and personal growthTrue burnout recovery requires addressing deeper belief systemsSelf-hypnosis strengthens the foundation of self-trust and confidenceThe subconscious mind plays a crucial role in behavior and decision-makingPersonal healing creates positive ripple effects throughout communitiesFind Juliet on Instagram/Twitter/TikTok/Threads: @julietcobodoConnect with me on socials- join the Be Well,Sis tribe on Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube! Want to get in touch? Maybe you have an AITA you need solving or a recommendation for On My Radar? Get in touch at hello@editaud.io with Be Well Sis in the subject line! Be Well Sis is hosted by Dr Cassandre Dunbar. The show is edited, mixed and produced by Megan Hayward and Reem Elmaghraby. 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.

In this essential conversation with Dr. Chinwe Williams, a licensed professional counselor, we explore the nuanced landscape of children's and adolescents' mental health. Dr. Williams breaks down how today's unique challenges – from digital overwhelm to academic pressures – are shaping our youth's mental well-being. Through practical insights and professional expertise, she guides us through recognizing the early signs of mental health struggles while offering tangible strategies for creating supportive, nurturing environments where our children can thrive.Episode Takeaways:Your child's irritability and anger might be signs of deeper mental health struggles, not just typical teen behaviorToday's kids navigate unique mental health challenges from their digital lives and academic pressuresResilience can be taught and strengthened through intentional parenting strategiesWhen parents prioritize their own mental wellness, they show their children what healthy coping looks likeStrong emotional bonds between parents and children create the safety net needed for mental wellnessConnect with Dr. Chinwe  on Instagram and visit her website! Connect with me on socials- join the Be Well,Sis tribe on Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube!Want to get in touch? Maybe you have an AITA you need solving or a recommendation for On My Radar? Get in touch at hello@editaud.io with Be Well Sis in the subject line! Be Well Sis is hosted by Dr Cassandre Dunbar. The show is edited, mixed and produced by Megan Hayward and Reem Elmaghraby. 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.

Let's get real about habits and why they're so hard to make (or break). In this episode, we're breaking down the actual science behind why your brain does what it does, minus all the usual "just try harder" nonsense. Whether you're trying to get your life together, level up your routine, or just understand why some habits stick while others don't, we've got you. Through real talk and practical science, we're exploring how your brain creates shortcuts and patterns - and more importantly, how you can work with your brain instead of fighting and understanding your brain's operating system and making it work for you.Relevant links: Atomic Habits by James ClearThe 5 Habit Triggers  that Make New Habits StickProducts Mentioned in ‘On My Radar’ Segment:Guru Nanda Oil Pulling Oral Rinse and Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel Click here to see all my beauty faves! Connect with me on socials- join the Be Well,Sis tribe on Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube!Want to get in touch? Maybe you have an AITA you need solving or a recommendation for On My Radar? Get in touch at hello@editaud.io with Be Well Sis in the subject line! 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 collaborationSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.