Brown Ambition p3j72

Hey BA Fam! In this episode, Mandi sits down with the unstoppable comic genius and *Official!* New York Times Bestselling author Zarna Garg to unpack her remarkable journey from stay-at-home mom to comedy superstar in her mid-40s. Less than a decade ago, Zarna was packing snacks for her kids' sports teams and tracking down missing socks in the laundry. Today, she's celebrating the release of her new book, "This American Woman: A One in a Billion Memoir", helming a sitcom pilot with comedy icons like Mindy Kaling and Kevin Hart and performing for sold-out audiences around the country. In this candid interview, Zarna gets real about the highs and lows of juggling motherhood, cultural expectations, and a career in the pressure cooker of New York City. She shares hard-earned wisdom on self-acceptance, resilience, and why women should never be afraid to think big. Follow Zarna:  https://www.tiktok.com/@zarnagarg https://www.instagram.com/zarnagarg   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Brown Ambition, Mandi sits down with the powerhouse that is Page Turner—real estate broker, single mom, and the magnetic new host of HGTV’s Love It or List It. Page opens up about her incredible journey from hustling as a single mom to owning her spotlight on national TV. She gets real about what it takes to bounce back from life’s curveballs, trust your gut, and pivot with purpose. We talk motherhood, money moves, and why it’s never too late to bet on yourself. Page drops gems on building confidence, tackling fear head-on, and leaving a legacy for the next generation. Plus, she gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the wild world of home renovations—what really goes down when family needs, budgets, and dreams collide. If you’re ready for a dose of inspiration with a side of real talk, this one’s for you. Watch Love It or List It Mondays at 10/9c on HGTV or stream it on Max. Key Moments: 05:21 The Journey of Resilience 13:35 Legacy and Raising Daughters 16:03 Career Shifts and Timing 18:25 Inspiration for Women in Their 50s 26:19 The Dynamics of Love It or List It 28:55 Navigating Home Renovations and Family Needs 41:26 Navigating Career Transitions 43:46 Embracing Self-Care and Softness 46:17 Finding Balance in a Demanding World 48:30 Legacy and New Beginnings 51:24 The Journey of Personal Growth See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Student loan repayments are officially back, and if you’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or just plain confused, you’re not alone. This week on Brown Ambition, we’re diving deep into the chaos with two of our favorite money minds: Yanely Espinal, author of Mind Your Money, and Chris Browning from Popcorn Finance. We break down what’s really going on inside the federal student loan system from glitchy portals to a laundry list of repayment plans and why so many borrowers are left in the dark.  Here’s what we’re unpacking: -🔍 How to spot and avoid shady loan forgiveness scams - 💸 What income-driven repayment plans actually mean for your wallet - 🧩 Why the student loan simulator on studentaid.gov should be your new best friend - 🧾 The IRS confusion that’s messing with people’s payment plans - 💬 The power of community when you’re navigating money decisions solo   Whether you're just restarting payments or knee-deep in the forgiveness process, this episode is packed with tips, real talk, and the you need to take back control of your student loans. LET’S STAY CONNECTED Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brownambitionpodcast Website: https://www.brownambitionpodcast.com Subscribe & leave us a review—because we love hearing from our BA fam! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BA Fam we’re back at the Brown Table! It’s been a minute, but the original crew Mandi, Yanely, and Chris are together again and catching up on everything. From West Coast travels and birthday plans to coaching updates and sleep podcast dreams (yes, really), this episode is full of laughs, life, and hard-earned lessons. Mandi shares the behind-the-scenes of launching her new 12-week VIP coaching program and why one-on-one coaching needs more than just one call. We also get real about the job market and how AI is already shifting the game especially for new grads and folks trying to break in. The tea? Relationships matter more than ever. Chris is dreaming up a new show (spoiler: it might put you to sleep—in the best way, and Yanely is out here living her best life… and finally seeing Beyoncé live in her hometown.  And of course, we round it all out with a good ol’ Brown Boost / Brown Break—featuring a Pulitzer Prize-winning book and a sobering reminder that hiring bias is still alive and well.   What We Talk About: - Life & travel updates (hi, Portland! hey, Hawaii!) - Why Mandi’s shifting back into one-on-one coaching - Coaching horror stories + how to find the right fit - AI’s takeover and what that means for your career - How side projects can keep your creativity flowing - Book recs, Beyoncé, and a big announcement 👀   Links + Resources: ✨ Apply for Mandi’s VIP coaching: https://mandymoney.com)  📖 James by Percival Everett (Chris's Brown Boost pick) 📱 Essence article: “Black, Qualified, and Ignored” by Aaliyah Jones   BA Fam, do us a solid: Leave a review. Share this episode with your favorite group chat. And don’t forget—your dreams (and your coins) deserve strategy and .  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Brown Ambition, Mandi sits down with the incredible Monique Rodriguez, founder of the powerhouse haircare brand Mielle Organics and author of the new book, The Glory in Your Story: Activating a Fearless Faith to Change Your Life, Your Career, and the World. From her kitchen table to a billion-dollar acquisition by P&G, Monique's journey is a masterclass in faith, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit. This episode is for anyone who's ever faced adversity and dared to dream bigger, for the aspiring entrepreneur needing that push, and for every Black woman who knows the power of her own story and is navigating partnership in all its forms. Tune in to hear Monique's transparent take on: *   The P&G acquisition: What *really* changed (and what absolutely didn't!), her non-negotiables in the deal, and her message to the community. *   Staying true to her vision: How she remains CEO and the driving force behind Mielle's DNA. *   The "Tariff Tea": How global trade impacts Black-owned businesses and what it could mean for your beauty budget. *   Paying it Forward: How Monique and her husband, Melvin, are now angel investing in other Black-owned businesses. *   Building a Brand Beyond Social Media: The power of community, networking (and a little "healthy stalking"!). *   **Partnership, Femininity & Faith:** Monique shares her perspective on embracing feminine energy in leadership and dives into the often-triggering word "submission" within her marriage – what it means to her and what it absolutely doesn't. *   Her new book, "The Glory in Your Story": Why she penned this powerful guide and how owning your narrative can change your life. *   The complexities of sisterhood in the business world. *   Balancing a billion-dollar brand, marriage (to her business partner!), and motherhood. ### Guest Spotlight: **Monique Rodriguez** is the founder and CEO of Mielle Organics, a global beauty brand she launched in 2014. A former ed nurse, Monique built Mielle from the ground up, fueled by her ion for healthy hair and her deep faith. Her brand was acquired by Procter & Gamble in 2023, with Monique remaining at the helm. She is also the author of "The Glory in Your Story: Activating a Fearless Faith to Change Your Life, Your Career, and the World." ### Key Discussion Points: *   **[01:41] The P&G Acquisition Unpacked:** Monique addresses the critics, shares what it's *really* like working with a conglomerate, and why it was crucial for her to remain CEO and protect Mielle's formulas. *   **[05:25] A Call for Community :** Monique discusses the impact of criticism on Black brands seeking investment and acquisition. *   **[08:17] Leading Lady:** Monique clarifies her role – she works for Mielle and her customers, not P&G. *   **[10:43] Tariffs & Your Wallet:** How international trade policies can affect the price of your favorite products. *   **[13:27] From Mentee to Mentor:** The story of Richelieu Dennis's early investment and how Monique is now ing other Black founders. *   **[16:04] Faith as a Foundation:** How Monique's faith guided her through profound grief and inspired the creation of Mielle. *   **[19:46] Beyond Analysis Paralysis:** Actionable advice on networking and getting your product into the right hands. *   **[21:46] "The Glory in Your Story":** Monique shares the inspiration behind her new book and its message of hope and empowerment. *   **[26:06] Social Media Sanity:** Monique's evolved relationship with social media and tips for maintaining balance. *   **[30:19] Building Community Offline:** The importance of in-person engagement for brand growth. *   **[32:00] Navigating Sisterhood & Business:** Monique's honest take on (and lack thereof) from other women. *   **[36:27] Partnership in Business & Life:** Monique shares gems on navigating business and marriage with her husband, Melvin, emphasizing grace, shared mission, complementing strengths, and respecting boundaries. *   **[42:00] Feminine Energy & Redefining Submission:** Monique delves into the power of embracing her femininity in business and personal life. She offers her perspective on the biblical concept of submission in marriage, clarifying it as trusting her husband's earned leadership while retaining her voice and strength, rather than shrinking herself. Memorable Quotes: *   "No one knows what goes on in that negotiating room... It's in my contract that I wanted to still be CEO and still make the decisions for the brand." - Monique Rodriguez *   "When someone received the abundance of what we're complaining that we don't have, we tear them down for that... It causes investors...to now take a pause and say, 'Do we want to acquire black brands?'" - Monique Rodriguez *   "I felt that God was using one of our darkest painful moments to birth purpose." - Monique Rodriguez *   "Stop wandering and just go. Start going out there, meeting people...stop trying to worry or figure out how it's gonna get done because it can cause what you call analysis paralysis." - Monique Rodriguez *   "No one can make fun of you for your own story if you have owned it and told it yourself." - Monique Rodriguez *   "I never felt that I had to lose my softness to run a company... When you combine femininity, your power and your purpose, that is a great dynamic duo together." - Monique Rodriguez *   "When women think submissive, it thinks like, I have to shrink who I am. I can't speak up... To me, it doesn't mean that I have to shrink who I am. It doesn't mean that I don't have a voice... It means that I can fully embrace being a woman and letting you lead because I trust you to lead." - Monique Rodriguez Follow Monique: https://www.instagram.com/exquisitemo/ Don't forget to subscribe to Brown Ambition for more inspiring conversations! Let us know what you thought of this episode by leaving a review on Apple Podcasts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BA Fam, we’re back with a classic BA Q&A, and this week’s episode is all about the kind of debt that just hits different credit cards with sky-high interest rates. A listener wrote in with a heartfelt message and a tough reality: nearly $12K in credit card debt spread across multiple cards, with APRs climbing over 30 percent.  Mandi breaks down: When debt consolidation actually makes sense How to avoid the trap of solving a short-term problem without fixing the root issue What happens to your credit score (for better or worse) The difference between snowballing your debt vs. avalanching it And why it’s time to stop avoiding your balances You’re not alone, BA fam. And no, you're not failing. You're just one plan away from a financial reset. Let’s talk about it.   📩 Got a question? Email [email protected] or DM @brownambitionpodcast   Resources + Links: Investor.gov Compound Interest Calculator https://www.investor.gov/financial-tools-calculators/calculators/compound-interest-calculator Apps for tracking expenses: Rocket Money, spreadsheets, or whatever helps you Credit unions for lower-interest personal loans Debt snowball vs. debt avalanche   LET’S STAY CONNECTED Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brownambitionpodcast   Website: https://www.brownambitionpodcast.com Subscribe & leave us a review—because we love hearing from our BA fam! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BA Fam, we’ve got a good one for you today! Mandi is ed by licensed financial therapist Aja Evans for an eye opening convo about something we all deal with but rarely talk about money feelings. From stress-spending and avoiding your inbox to doom-scrolling at 6 a.m., Aja breaks down how our emotions drive financial behavior and why learning to sit with discomfort might just be your most powerful money move yet. We also talk about getting dressed just to open your laptop, journaling out your rage , and why the stretch that makes you cry might be exactly what you need.   In this episode, we get into: -What it really means to self-soothe with spending and what to do instead -Why romanticizing boring tasks (like budgeting) actually works - How financial avoidance shows up and what it’s costing you -The deep-rooted shame so many of us carry, no matter how much is in your bank -How Aja helps clients rewrite their money stories    About Aja: Aja Evans is a licensed financial therapist, President of the Financial Therapy Association, and author of Feel Good Finance. She helps people explore the emotional side of money so they can spend, save, and live from a place of clarity instead of chaos.   Resources + Links: -Follow Aja on IG: https://www.instagram.com/ajaetherapy -Her website: https://www.ajaevanscounseling.com -Grab her new book Feel Good Finance - Feel-Good Finance Untangle Your Relationship with Money for Better Mental, Emotional, and Financial Well-Being   LET’S STAY CONNECTED Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/brownambitionpodcast Website: https://www.brownambitionpodcast.com Subscribe & leave us a review—because we love hearing from our BA fam! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BA Fam, we’re in our investing bag today—and who better to guide us through this unpredictable market than Racquel Oden, Head of U.S. Wealth and Personal Banking for HSBC (yes, that HSBC)? With 30 years of experience under her belt, Racquel breaks it all the way down: why now *isn’t* the time to panic, how to pivot smartly, and what staying “active” with your money really means (spoiler: it’s not staring at your every five minutes).   Mandi gets personal about her own portfolio (yes, she opened the statement during the episode), and Racquel walks her—and all of us—through what to look for, what questions to ask, and why we *all* need to stop avoiding our finances like that dentist appointment we keep pushing back. If you've been wondering whether you should move money, sit tight, or finally talk to a pro—this episode is your sign.   What We Discuss : Why market dips can actually be buying opportunities (especially in sectors like AI, healthcare, and utilities). The real definition of “active investing” (and why it doesn’t mean day trading). Why diversification > putting all your eggs in one stock basket. How to figure out your risk tolerance and time horizon like a grown-up. Why now is the perfect time for a financial check-in, not a freak-out. LET’S STAY CONNECTED Instagram: [@brownambitionpodcast](https://www.instagram.com/brownambitionpodcast)   Website: [brownambitionpodcast.com](https://www.brownambitionpodcast.com)   Subscribe & leave us a review—because we love hearing from our BA fam! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hey BA fam — this week, Mandi is back at the Brown Table with two of her favorite mama podcasters: Jessica Norwood from The Sugar Daddy Podcast and Rena Campbell, from Dreams and Drive. We’re getting real about what it means to be a mom, a creative, and a corporate baddie in 2025 all at the same time. From burnout and baby wipes to balancing big dreams and meal prep, this is a love letter to every woman out here trying to do it all (and keep her edges intact). No fluff, no filters — just honest convo about grief, ambition, community, and redefining what success looks like when you're raising humans and chasing goals.   We talk about: -Why balance is a myth and why lowering the bar might just be the key to peace -Making peace with slow growth and shifting timelines as a mama and entrepreneur -Outsourcing, setting boundaries, and why folding kid laundry should be a group sport -The grief of losing and the power of building your own village -Raising emotionally intelligent boys in a chaotic world -Saying “I’m a mom” with your whole chest even in the workplace   Takeaway Quotes: “You can outsource everything but love.” – Jessica “I’m not scared to say I’m a mom — and I need to leave early because my kid has a talent show.” – Rena   Links + Resources: 📲 Follow on Rena Instagram -  http://instagram.com/rainshineluv 🔉 Listen to Dreams in Drive  →     https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dreams-in-drive/id1076971560 📲 Follow on Jessica Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thesugardaddypodcast/ 🔉 Listen to Sugar Daddy Podcast  →    https://www.instagram.com/thesugardaddypodcast?igsh=Y2R0dGF0OTFtdmNo LET’S STAY CONNECTED Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brownambitionpodcast Website: https://www.brownambitionpodcast.com Subscribe & leave us a review—because we love hearing from our BA fam! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Mandi sits down with the brilliant Jasmine Marie breathwork practitioner, founder of Black Girls Breathing, and author of Black Girls Breathing: Heal from Trauma, Combat Stress, and Find Your Freedom. From surviving the corporate grind to creating wellness spaces rooted in cultural relevance, Jasmine gets real about her journey into entrepreneurship, healing work, and what it truly takes to hold space for Black women’s mental and emotional wellbeing.   We talk about everything from the power of a deep breath and surviving burnout, to funding a business on your own and growing a team the *smart* way. Jasmine even leads us through a mini oceanic breath session at the end — don’t miss it We talk about:  - Jasmine’s transition from corporate beauty marketing to breathwork and mental wellness - Why most wellness spaces *don’t* center Black women's lived experiences — and what she's doing about it - Building a company without VC funding: how Jasmine bootstrapped and scaled BGB - The importance of listening to your body (and your breath) when trauma speaks - Balancing healing work with entrepreneurship and how not to burn out - Tools in Jasmine’s toolkit: EMDR therapy, acupuncture, daily walks, and more - Real talk on grief, generational trauma, and creating new blueprints for Black wellness   the Movement: Visit https://www.blackgirlsbreathing.com to learn more and access free mental health resources   - Follow Jasmine on IG @blackgirlsbreathing   - Subscribe to *Brown Ambition* and leave us a 5-star review if this episode gave you life! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BA Fam, we’re back at the Brown Table!  This week, Mandi is ed by our faves Yanely and Naseema for a good ol' catch-up and trust, it’s been a minute. We're talking about all things mental health, money moves, and why Naseema’s plotting a mini-retirement (yes, you heard that right).   Plus, we dive deep into the messy student loan situation (spoiler alert: the bills are coming due) and what you actually need to know before you freak out.  We also show love to some brilliant Black authors and entrepreneurs making big waves in the mental health and financial wellness space.  Oh, and we might get a little sidetracked talking about breathwork,  the movie that everyone is talking about Sinners, and why leaning on your community is the biggest flex right now.  Pull up a seat, you’re gonna want in on this one. 💛 Links + Resources: 📲 Follow on Yanely Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/missbehelpful/ 📲 Follow on Naseema Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/financiallyintentional/ LET’S STAY CONNECTED Instagram: [@brownambitionpodcast](https://www.instagram.com/brownambitionpodcast )   Website: [brownambitionpodcast.com](https://www.brownambitionpodcast.com )   Subscribe & leave us a review—because we love hearing from our BA fam! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week’s episode, we’re getting real about navigating career highs, lows—and everything in between. Mandi hosts a live coaching session with LaKesha J., a member of the Mandi MoneyMakers community, who is trying to figure out how to position herself for career growth after she was laid off by her company and narrowly escaped unemployment by finding a role on a different team. Next up, we get into the messy, grown-up decision-making that comes with a career crossroads. Do you take the severance and walk away clean—or stay for the long game, with perks like full vesting, pension benefits, and even a company-covered master’s degree? We’re breaking down the pros and cons, talking real numbers, and helping you think through how to align your career moves with your long-term goals. And to close things out, we’re diving into two fields where the future is already here: data analytics and cybersecurity. Whether you’re eyeing a new lane or looking to level up where you are, we’re talking certifications, AI trends, and the skills that’ll keep your résumé future-proof. It’s a reminder that learning is a lifelong flex and staying curious is the best career insurance out there. This episode is a celebration of courage, clarity, and the power of making moves—even when it’s scary. Tap in for real talk, big insights, and a whole lot of motivation to keep betting on yourself. LET’S STAY CONNECTED Instagram: [@brownambitionpodcast](https://www.instagram.com/brownambitionpodcast)   Website: [brownambitionpodcast.com](https://www.brownambitionpodcast.com)   Subscribe & leave us a review—because we love hearing from our BA fam! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Brown Ambition, we’re ed by none other than HGTV’s powerhouse duo, Egypt Sherrod and Mike Jackson, stars of “Married to Real Estate” and hosts of the Marriage & Money podcast. Together, we dive into what it really looks like to build a business, raise a family, and keep a marriage strong—all while staying true to themselves. From juggling show tapings to managing their growing empire (hello, new furniture line Indigo Road!), Egypt and Mike don’t hold back.   We talk about:  - The honest truth about therapy, teamwork, and choosing love on the hard days   - How they navigate marriage without competition just collaboration   - The power of understanding your partner’s strengths in life and in business   - Their journey raising daughters while modeling a healthy, ambitious partnership   - What it takes to build a financial dream team and break the mold on outdated gender roles     We also get personal about the importance of communication, leaning on trust, and setting boundaries that protect your peace—drawing inspiration from Michelle Obama, Tabitha Brown, and the many women redefining relationship goals on their own .   This one’s for anyone balancing love, legacy, and leveling up   🎧 Tap in and don’t forget to check out Egypt and Mike on YouTube and follow Egypt's newest venture, Indigo Road, for more of her signature style and vision.   LET’S STAY CONNECTED Instagram: @brownambitionpodcast  Website: https://www.brownambitionpodcast.com Subscribe & leave us a review—because we love hearing from our BA fam! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, we’re sitting down with Raye Shurice, an amazing member of the Mandi Moneymakers community, who went from juggling two jobs to landing a major salary bump and leveling up her entire career. She’s breaking down her journey, from tough interviews to tough decisions, and how community, clarity, and confidence helped her boss up and get what she deserved. We’re also digging into one of the trickiest parts of the professional world: salary negotiation especially when you're trying to level up within the same company. Sound familiar? We got you. From figuring out your market value to knowing how to leverage that next offer (yes, even in nonprofits!), we’re talking strategy, self-worth, and how to have the conversation without losing your cool. Plus: We’re sharing real-world scripts, role-play tips, and ways to make sure your PTO, bonuses, and benefits get the same love as your paycheck. If you’ve ever second-guessed your ask, struggled to advocate for your worth, or just needed that push to go after more—this episode is your reminder: You can do this, and you deserve every bit of it. Links + Resources: 📲 Follow on Raye Instagram - @raye.shurice 🎙️ Stay connected with Brown Ambition →   @brownambitionpodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on the show, we’re bringing you a powerful mix of money talk, ion projects, and straight-up sisterhood. Jamila Souffrantt yes,Jamila from Journey to Launch pulls up to share how she turned her financial freedom dreams into reality and how you can too. She drops gems from her book and reminds us all that reclaiming our financial futures is not just possible, it's necessary. She’s ed by her sisters, Shaina McGregor and Imani Manning, for a soulful catch-up that’s long overdue (last podcast link-up was 2021—whew!). Shaina, a former pro dancer turned life coach, walks us through her shift into wellness and building a community with Inward Space. And Imani? She’s holding it down in the kitchen and beyond, juggling entrepreneurship and a career that centers joy, kids, and flavor.   The vibe is pure love, family memories, deep dives into Jamaican-American identity, and what it really looks like to chase purpose while staying grounded. Whether it’s money, creativity, motherhood, or just figuring out what’s next—these three women keep it real and relatable. Plus: Shaina closes out the episode with a calming breathing exercise that’ll have you exhaling stress and inhaling peace. Tap in for a beautifully layered convo that’ll leave you laughing, reflecting, and inspired to move boldly in your own lane. Links + Resources: 📲 Follow on Jamila Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/jamilasouffrant      📲 Follow on Journey to Launch Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/journeytolaunch/ 📲 Follow on Shaina Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/shaina.mcgregor 📲 Follow on inward space Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inward.space/ 📲 Follow on Imani Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/yaadchef_45 🎙️ Stay connected with Brown Ambition →   @brownambitionpodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, we’re ed by Latham Thomas, founder of Mama Glow and a true trailblazer in reproductive justice. She takes us on the journey that started with her own birth experience and led her to build a movement that’s transforming how we care for Black women and birthing people.   From expanding doula care for Medicaid families in NYC to training the next wave of advocates and healers, Latham breaks down how Mama Glow went from a personal mission to a global platform. And y’all, she keeps it real about what growth actually looks like—think repotting a plant or realizing your kid just outgrew their favorite hoodie.   We also get into the rise of Mama Glow during COVID, how the shift to online learning opened unexpected doors, and why planning, vision, and community are key when everything feels uncertain. Plus, Latham reminds us that doulas and midwives aren’t a luxury—they’re a necessity when it comes to safety, dignity, and in the birthing space.   If you’re someone who cares about health, healing, and building something with purpose, this one’s for you.   What You’ll Hear:   - Why Latham created Mama Glow and what it’s grown into   - The real deal on Black maternal health and advocacy   - How COVID sparked a pivot that paid off   - The power of self-advocacy in the delivery room   - How doulas are changing lives—and saving them   Takeaway Quote: “Every person deserves to feel safe, seen, and ed during birth. Mama Glow is here to make sure that happens especially for us." – Latham Thomas Links + Resources: 📲 Black Mamas Matter: https://blackmamasmatter.org/bmhw25/ 📲 Follow on Latham Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/glowmaven/ 📲 Follow on Mama Glow Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/mamaglowfoundation/ 🎙️ Stay connected with Brown Ambition →   @brownambitionpodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BA Fam, I'm excited to share a new show from my friends at Higher Ground, hosted by thee Michelle Obama, called IMO. On IMO, Michelle and her big brother Craig Robinson aim to bring you the same: Candid perspectives on the everyday questions shaping our lives, relationships and the world around us. Each week, they’re ed by a guest to tackle real questions from real folks just like you offering practical advice, personal storytelling, and plenty of laughs. And a lot of their questions are about dating and relationships. Michelle and Craig share stories about being there for each other throughout their lives, from first crushes and fraught college years, to landing at the White House, to losing their mom. For six decades they’ve been each others’ most trusted counsel—and now, they want to be that counsel for you. In this episode, Keke Palmer s Michelle and Craig when a listener asks why she feels so bad after a big career win. Keke reflects on how her planned breakout as a young actress went awry, and the ways that failure contributed to her career. They all describe how their perspectives on meaningful work have changed over the years—and the advice that Michelle’s girls are finally starting to listen to. You can hear more episodes of IMO at https://lnk.to/imomichellecraigBN See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re back BA Fam with a whole lot to celebrate! ing us are two of our faves in the finance space: Chris Browning of “Popcorn Finance” and Berna Anat, author of the amazing book “Money Out Loud”. If you’re looking to level up your money game and feel good doing it, this episode’s for you.   We get into:   - The highs and lows of aggressively saving money   - Gen Z’s "we’re gonna have fun & save money" energy   -Your financial strategy in the age of Tr*mp Tariffs -Lizzo’s redemption tour -Are solopreneurs heading back to Corporate America?   We also chat about what’s going on in the world—from economic uncertainty and tariffs to the importance of staying informed without losing your peace. And when it comes to career shifts, Berna talks about her transition from full-time solopreneurship back to the 9-5 life…and how she’s doing it on her own .    Make sure you stick around till the end when we share our Brown Boosts and Breaks for the week! Special mentions for Oakland, Moesha and Lizzo’s redemption tour.    --------- EPISODE CHAPTERS ---------   (0:00:06) - Brown Ambition With Mandy Woodruff-Santos (0:04:49) - Financial Reflections and Regrets (0:18:29) - Realigning Values and Money Habits (0:26:21) - Navigating Economic Uncertainty and Tariffs (0:34:07) - Community Building Through Thrift and Bartering (0:45:56) - Investing Strategies and Debt Management (0:48:58) - Transitioning to Stable Employment (0:56:04) - Exploring Oakland's Black and Brown Community (1:04:37) - Lizzo's Journey to Self-Love (1:10:05) - Navigating Cancel Culture and Redemption This episode is all about giving yourself grace, finding balance, and building the life you want—with your finances in check and your spirit intact. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, we’re talking all things sales—breaking barriers, building wealth, and securing the bag. Mandi is ed by two powerhouse guests: Chantel George, founder of Sistas in Sales, and her brother Alex Woodruff, Sales Director at Fiddler, an AI software firm. They dive into the unique challenges women of color face in the sales industry, why representation matters, and how to carve out a thriving career in this space. Chantel shares how Sistas in Sales is creating opportunities and systems for women navigating the field, while Alex drops gems on career growth, negotiating compensation, and navigating corporate spaces as a Black professional. Plus, we get into personal finance tips, the perks of entrepreneurial ventures, and why understanding your worth is non-negotiable. If you’re in sales, thinking about jumping in, or just looking for advice on making strategic money moves—this episode is for you! What You’ll Learn:  💰 Negotiating compensation like a pro 📈 The power of financial planning 🚀 Why entrepreneurial moves might be your next big step Links + Resources: 📲 Follow on Alex Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/alexjwoodruff/ 📲 Follow on Chantel Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/chantelmedia/ 🎙️ Stay connected with Brown Ambition →   @brownambitionpodcast   Plus, we get into: If you're in sales (or thinking about it), this episode is packed with insight to help you thrive! Timestamps: 📌 00:00 - Intro + Meet Our Guests 📌 01:05 - Challenges for Women of Color in Sales 📌 03:43 - The Current Market & Opportunities 📌 06:30 - Career Growth & Overcoming Barriers 📌 10:34 - Personal Career Journeys 📌 19:06 - Sales Strategies & Success Tips 📌 26:49 - Managing Money in Sales 📌 27:37 - Breaking Down Compensation Structures 📌 32:01 - Why Living Below Your Means Matters 📌 32:49 - Smart Financial Planning for Sales Pros 📌 38:04 - Sisters in Sales: Building a Movement 📌 44:41 - The Power of Networking in Sales 📌 47:28 - Embracing Entrepreneurship Hit play and get ready to level up! 🎧✨ #BrownAmbition #SalesSuccess #WomenInSales See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BA Fam, she’s back! In this episode We’re  ed once again by the one and only Morgan DeBaun CEO of Blavity, serial entrepreneur, and now a FOUR-time guest on the show! Morgan has been making big moves, and this time, she’s here to talk about her new book, “Rewrite Your Rules”, and how she’s navigating life and business on her own .     We get into the real about entrepreneurship! what it actually takes to build a business from the ground up, the sacrifices no one talks about, and why staying true to your personal values is the ultimate flex. Morgan also gives us a peek into her life outside of work, sharing how she balances being a boss with family, self-care, and a strong system.     If you’ve been feeling stuck in your career, business, or just life in general, this episode is for you! Morgan is dropping gems on how to break free from expectations and create success in a way that works for YOU.     What You’ll Learn:  ✨ How Morgan built Blavity and what’s kept her going   ✨ The biggest lessons from “Rewrite Your Rules”   ✨ Why having the right team (and personal boundaries) is a game-changer   ✨ The real talk on entrepreneurship—beyond the highlight reel     Links + Resources: 📖 Grab your copy of “Rewrite Your Rules” → Rewriteyourrules.com 📲 Follow Morgan on [Instagram @morgandebaun   🎙️ Stay connected with Brown Ambition →  @brownambitionpodcast   Don’t miss this one—hit play and get ready to rewrite your own rules!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.