When raising our kids, who's to say conventional is the best way to go? So many of the current institutions in the US, whether it’s politics, the education system, or the way our law enforcement functions, don’t favor Black and brown people—and especially not our children. If we’re going to raise our kids to think outside of the box, to value emotional maturity, and to grow to become the strongest, proudest, and most empathetic people they’re capable of being, then why stick to a blueprint that’s served us so poorly in the past?

Today, I’m welcoming Maimouna Youssef AKA Mumu Fresh, a Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, and MC who’s also a mama making her way in the wild world of the music industry.

Tune in and listen to episode fourteen of Mamaste with Tanika Ray. Mumu and I talk about how her son is her best friend, business partner, and tourmate, how not to conflate Black culture and parenting with post-slavery trauma, and breaking the pattern of resentment that so many men hold toward their mothers.

Some Questions I ask:

• What is it like being in the crazy music industry as a mother? (03:07)
• What do you call yourself? How would you describe yourself? (20:32)
• What do you wish kids knew about themselves? (27:57)
• What do you tell your son about navigating this world that keeps him confident and keeps him feeling strong so that fear isn't at the forefront? (30:52)

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

• The origin story of the name Mumu Fresh (01:28)
• Why it’s so important to raise children with emotional intelligence and maturity (08:44)
• Why we teach our kids to have a voice and speak clearly (15:20)
• The disillusion Mumu felt in Hollywood and how she finally accepted her role as a healer (20:40)
• Mumu’s advice for her son living as a Black teen in 2022 (32:19)

Connect with Mumu Fresh:

• Instagram
• Website
• iTunes

Let’s Connect!

• Website
• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube
• Twitter

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