Ep. 82: Can You Predict Divorce? Parenting A Digital Childhood & Charlie Kirk, Iryna Zarutska & America's Mental Health

This episode is full of hot takes, tough questions, and a little pop culture fun as we tackle marriage debates, family dynamics, and celebrity relationships in the spotlight.

💔 Forever Segment — Marriage Doom or Bloom?

We unpack Dr. John Gottman’s groundbreaking research on how he can predict when a marriage is headed toward divorce. What are the red flags to watch out for, and how can couples shift toward growth instead of separation?

🎮 Roots & Bloom Segment — Gaming, Tech & Kids: A Digital Childhood

Roblox, YouTube, and endless screen time, how do we parent through the digital world? We share insights, strategies, and struggles for raising kids in a tech-saturated generation.

📰 Lifestyle Segment — Iryna Zarutska, Charlie Kirk & America’s Mental Health Crime Crisis

We discuss the tragic demise of Iryna Zarutska, Charlie Kirk, and examine the larger issue of mental health and crime in America. What does this mean for families, communities, and the future? How do we fix this?

Today we’ll be touching on: 

• Our First Favorite Show (No Cartoons, Disney or Parent Influenced)
• Oumuamua & 3I ATLAS: Aliens?
• Marriage Doom or Bloom? How To Tell If You're Headed Towards Divorce
• Gaming, Tech & Kids: A Digital Childhood and Parenting
• Iryna Zarutska, Charlie Kirk & America’s Mental Health Crime Crisis: How Do We Fix It?

Anything you want to hear us talk about? Loved a topic we touched on? Let us know in the review section!

___________________________________

Also, Follow us here!

--Kristin:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/yourstrulykristin/ @Yourstrulykristin

Cook Book: https://a.co/d/5pqsuYE

--Keonte:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/keontemcdonald/ @Keontemcdonald

My Music: https://keonte.bandcamp.com/album/a-loss-for-words

Graphic Design: https://www.behance.net/gallery/170503095/Portfolio

Graphic IG: https://www.instagram.com/kingsmold/ @Kingsmold

___________________________________

Order our New Children's Book: "Where Dreams May Take You"

https://a.co/d/3KlouTY

My Unpopular Opinion Podcast by Keonte coming soon!

Song of The Week: Jadakiss Feat. Anthony Hamilton "Why?"

https://music.apple.com/us/album/why-feat-anthony-hamilton/1444180947?i=1444181519

Film of the Week: Strange Magic

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/crafted/donations

Ep. 81: Taylor Swift Is Engaged! Taboo Marriage Questions & Nick Cannon Vs. The Nuclear Family

This episode is full of hot takes, tough questions, and a little pop culture fun as we tackle marriage debates, family dynamics, and celebrity relationships in the spotlight.

💍 Forever Segment — The Split Decision

We’re answering trendy but taboo marriage questions in 30 seconds or less! From joint vs. separate bank accounts, to spotting red flags, to whether too much sex talk is too much — we don’t hold back.

👨‍👧‍👦 Roots & Bloom Segment — Nick Cannon vs. The Nuclear Family

Is a present father who isn’t in the home more helpful or more harmful? We dig into modern family structures, the idea of “presence,” and what really matters for kids’ well-being.

🌟 Lifestyle Segment — Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce: Love in the Public Eye

With the engagement news shaking the internet, we talk about what it means to build a relationship under the spotlight. Can love truly thrive when the world is watching?

Today we’ll be touching on: 

• Terrible Food Combinations
• The Dancing Plague of 1518
• Taboo Marriage Questions Answered In 30 Seconds or Less
• Nick Cannon & Cam Newton Vs. The Nuclear Family
• Swifties Assemble! Taylor Swift Is Now A Fiancé

Anything you want to hear us talk about? Loved a topic we touched on? Let us know in the review section!

___________________________________

Also, Follow us here!

--Kristin:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/yourstrulykristin/ @Yourstrulykristin

Cook Book: https://a.co/d/5pqsuYE

--Keonte:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/keontemcdonald/ @Keontemcdonald

My Music: https://keonte.bandcamp.com/album/a-loss-for-words

Graphic Design: https://www.behance.net/gallery/170503095/Portfolio

Graphic IG: https://www.instagram.com/kingsmold/ @Kingsmold

___________________________________

Order our New Children's Book: "Where Dreams May Take You"

https://a.co/d/3KlouTY

My Unpopular Opinion Podcast by Keonte coming soon!

Song of The Week: Chance The Rapper & Jamila Woods "No More Old Men"

https://music.apple.com/us/album/no-more-old-men-feat-jamila-woods/1833372711?i=1833372718

Show of the Week: Law & Order: SVU (Peacock)

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/crafted/donations

Ep. 80: Baddies & Cutie Patooties, Jay-Z Vs. Black Thought, & Back To School

This week, we’re mixing playful debates, practical parenting tips, and a little hip-hop heat. From “baddie” culture to back-to-school hacks to rap royalty comparisons, we’ve got something for everybody.

💄 Forever Segment - Baddies vs. Cutie Patooties

Do women who call themselves baddies get an unfair reputation in society? Are cutie patooties just baddies with a shy streak? We break down the stereotypes, ask which one we’d marry, and figure out where we land on the spectrum.

📚 Roots & Bloom Segment - Back to School

The school year is here! We’re sharing our best tips and tricks to help kids start strong, from routines to organization to keeping that first-day excitement going all year.

🎤 Lifestyle Segment - Jay-Z vs. Black Thought: Who’s the Better Emcee?

The social media streets are buzzing, who holds the crown between Jay-Z and Black Thought of The Roots? We weigh in on skills, influence, and why this debate says a lot about hip-hop culture today.

Today we’ll be touching on: 

• Once And A Lifetime Concerts/Show
• Who Is The Only Rapper To Have A Song With 2pac, BIG, Jay-Z & Pimp-C?
• Baddies vs. Cutie Patooties
• Back To School: Them Kids Are Gone! Lol
• Jay-Z Vs. Black Thought

Anything you want to hear us talk about? Loved a topic we touched on? Let us know in the review section!

___________________________________

Also, Follow us here!

--Kristin:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/yourstrulykristin/ @Yourstrulykristin

Cook Book: https://a.co/d/5pqsuYE

--Keonte:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/keontemcdonald/ @Keontemcdonald

My Music: https://keonte.bandcamp.com/album/a-loss-for-words

Graphic Design: https://www.behance.net/gallery/170503095/Portfolio

Graphic IG: https://www.instagram.com/kingsmold/ @Kingsmold

___________________________________

Order our New Children's Book: "Where Dreams May Take You"

https://a.co/d/3KlouTY

My Unpopular Opinion Podcast by Keonte coming soon!

Song of The Week: Black Thought & Dangermouse "Aquamarine"

https://music.apple.com/us/album/aquamarine-feat-michael-kiwanuka/1733884941?i=1733885255

Show of the Week: Sakamoto Days (Netflix)

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/crafted/donations

Ep. 79: Kid Free Getaways, Family Vacays & The Fantastic Four

This week, it’s all about vacations, balance, and blockbusters! From kid-free getaways to full-on family adventures, we’re talking about what it takes to keep the spark alive in marriage and create core memories with your kids.

💑 Forever Segment - Gone, But Not Missing Them Kids!

We recap our recent kid-free trip to Salt Lake City, Utah — and why stepping away from parenting mode helped us reconnect, reset, and remember why we actually like each other.

🚂 Roots & Bloom Segment - Tired Parents, Happy Kids!

We’re breaking down our family train trip up the coast to San Luis Obispo; the chaos, the joy, and why vacationing with your kids is just as important as time away from them.

🎬 Lifestyle Segment - Fantastic Four: First Steps

We’re diving into the newest Marvel film and sharing our honest takes. Does Fantastic Four: First Steps live up to the hype or does it fall flat? 

Today we’ll be touching on: 

• Where Else Would You Live In The World If You Could?
• NFL Players Going Broke
• Gone, But Not Missing Them Kids!: Married Getaway
• Tired Parents, Happy Kids!: Family Vacay
• Fantastic Four: First Steps

Anything you want to hear us talk about? Loved a topic we touched on? Let us know in the review section!

___________________________________

Also, Follow us here!

--Kristin:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/yourstrulykristin/ @Yourstrulykristin

Cook Book: https://a.co/d/5pqsuYE

--Keonte:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/keontemcdonald/ @Keontemcdonald

My Music: https://keonte.bandcamp.com/album/a-loss-for-words

Graphic Design: https://www.behance.net/gallery/170503095/Portfolio

Graphic IG: https://www.instagram.com/kingsmold/ @Kingsmold

___________________________________

Order our New Children's Book: "Where Dreams May Take You"

https://a.co/d/3KlouTY

My Unpopular Opinion Podcast by Keonte coming soon!

Song of The Week: Clipse "So Be It"

https://music.apple.com/us/album/so-be-it/1825917340?i=1825917641

Film of the Week: Fantastic Four: First Steps (In Theaters)

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/crafted/donations

Ep. 78: A Trip To Turkey, Greece & Time Apart! How Distance Impacted Our Marriage, Kids, and Mindset

On today’s episode, we’re diving into some real conversations that challenge and inspire families to grow together!

💍 Forever Segment: Solo Flight, Shared Life!

We reflect on what it meant for Kristin to travel alone as a wife and mom, plus what it taught us about trust, independence, and the strength of our marriage as we approach our 15-year anniversary.

👩‍👧‍👦 Roots & Bloom Segment: Refreshed Mom, Stronger Family!

Being away from your kids is no joke! The guilt, the freedom, the constant mental check-ins & time away. We talk through the emotional roller coaster of mom travel and how stepping away can actually lead to deeper family connection.

🌍 Lifestyle Segment: Turkey & Greece: The Highlights (and Lowlights)

Kristin shares her favorite moments (and a few not-so-favorite ones) from her travels, from ancient ruins and rooftop views to unexpected surprises abroad, we discuss it all.

Today we’ll be touching on: 

• Our Top 3 World Monuments
• The City Of Chicago Did What?
• Solo Flight, Shared Life: Traveling Solo While Married
• Refreshed Mom, Stronger Family: How Long Is Too Log To Be Away From Your Kids?
• Turkey & Greece! The Highlights And The Lows

Anything you want to hear us talk about? Loved a topic we touched on? Let us know in the review section!

___________________________________

Also, Follow us here!

--Kristin:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/yourstrulykristin/ @Yourstrulykristin

Cook Book: https://a.co/d/5pqsuYE

--Keonte:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/keontemcdonald/ @Keontemcdonald

My Music: https://keonte.bandcamp.com/album/a-loss-for-words

Graphic Design: https://www.behance.net/gallery/170503095/Portfolio

Graphic IG: https://www.instagram.com/kingsmold/ @Kingsmold

___________________________________

Order our New Children's Book: "Where Dreams May Take You"

https://a.co/d/3KlouTY

My Unpopular Opinion Podcast by Keonte coming soon!

Song of The Week: Clips "The Birds Don't Sing"

https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-birds-dont-sing/1825917340?i=1825917344

Film of the Week: K-Pop Demon Hunter (Netflix)

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/crafted/donations

Ep. 77: What Do Women Bring To The Table In a Relationship? Boys Playing With Girl Toys? & Nas Vs. Jim Jones

On today’s episode, we’re diving into some real conversations that challenge and inspire families to grow together!

💑 Forever Segment — Tables Turned!: What Do Women Bring To The Table In a Relationship?

We’re flipping the script on the age-old question often aimed at men. What do women bring to the table and why does this conversation keep coming up? We break down value, partnership, and how couples can avoid transactional mindsets.

🧸 Roots & Bloom Segment — Boy Toys, Dolls, and Kitchens: Where Do We Draw the Line?

Should boys play with dolls and toy kitchens? Should girls play with trucks and action figures? We’re digging into gender norms in childhood, how toys shape identity, and where parents stand on letting kids explore freely.

🎵 Lifestyle Segment — Nas vs. Jim Jones: Who’s the More Influential Rapper…and Why Are Our Legends Being Disrespected?

We’re discussing Keonte's favorite Emcee of all-time, Nas and why Jim Jones thinks that he is a better Rapper than him present day. We discuss their influence, their legacies, and why hip-hop elders often face public disrespect. Is it just generational gaps, or something deeper?

Today we’ll be touching on: 

• Giraffes & Komodo Dragons
• Where Did Teddy Bears Come From?
• Tables Turned!: What Do Women Bring To The Table In a Relationship?
• Boy Toys, Dolls, and Kitchens: Where Do We Draw the Line?
• Nas vs. Jim Jones

Anything you want to hear us talk about? Loved a topic we touched on? Let us know in the review section!

___________________________________

Also, Follow us here!

--Kristin:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/yourstrulykristin/ @Yourstrulykristin

Cook Book: https://a.co/d/5pqsuYE

--Keonte:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/keontemcdonald/ @Keontemcdonald

My Music: https://keonte.bandcamp.com/album/a-loss-for-words

Graphic Design: https://www.behance.net/gallery/170503095/Portfolio

Graphic IG: https://www.instagram.com/kingsmold/ @Kingsmold

___________________________________

Order our New Children's Book: "Where Dreams May Take You"

https://a.co/d/3KlouTY

My Unpopular Opinion Podcast by Keonte coming soon!

Song of The Week: Nas "Rewind"

https://music.apple.com/us/album/rewind-clean/265104376?i=265104447

Show of the Week: Battle Camp (Netflix)

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/crafted/donations

Ep. 76: Keep That Same Energy!: Holidays, Absent Fathers At Weddings & Tyler Perry’s STRAW

On today’s episode, we’re diving into some real conversations that challenge and inspire families to grow together!

💛 Forever Segment — Keep That Same Energy! Celebrating Father's Day, Mother's Day & Beyond

We’re unpacking the importance of consistency when it comes to celebrating all holidays not just Father’s Day & Mother's Day. How do we make sure our spouses feel valued year-round, not just on special occasions?

🌱 Roots & Bloom Segment — The Ultimatum: An Absent Father, A Present Mother & Their Child's Wedding

We’re tackling a tough question: Should non-active parents be invited to their child’s wedding? What’s best for the couple, the family, and the future? We explore the emotional layers and share thoughts on setting boundaries.

🎬 Lifestyle Segment — STRAW & The Tyler Perry Film Formula

We’re breaking down Netflix’s new film STRAW and reflecting on Tyler Perry’s track record. Is it time for something new in his storytelling? Let’s talk about representation, impact, and what’s working, or not in Black cinema today.

Today we’ll be touching on: 

• The Great Attractor: Space Is A Crazy Place
• Childhood Hobbies
• Keep That Same Energy! Celebrating Father's Day, Mother's Day & Beyond
• The Ultimatum: An Absent Father, A Present Mother & Their Child's Wedding
• Netflix's STRAW & The Tyler Perry Film Formula

Anything you want to hear us talk about? Loved a topic we touched on? Let us know in the review section!

___________________________________

Also, Follow us here!

--Kristin:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/yourstrulykristin/ @Yourstrulykristin

Cook Book: https://a.co/d/5pqsuYE

--Keonte:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/keontemcdonald/ @Keontemcdonald

My Music: https://keonte.bandcamp.com/album/a-loss-for-words

Graphic Design: https://www.behance.net/gallery/170503095/Portfolio

Graphic IG: https://www.instagram.com/kingsmold/ @Kingsmold

___________________________________

Order our New Children's Book: "Where Dreams May Take You"

https://a.co/d/3KlouTY

My Unpopular Opinion Podcast by Keonte coming soon!

Song of The Week: Little Simz "Only"

https://music.apple.com/us/album/only-feat-lydia-kitto/1794880972?i=1794880987

Film of the Week: How To Train Your Dragon (Live Action in Theaters)

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/crafted/donations

Ep. 75: Love Tanks & Opposite Day, 2025 NBA Finals & Love Lessons We Show Our Kids

In this episode we kick things off with our Forever Segment, where we dive into Opposite Day; a fun and intentional tradition where we model each other’s love languages for an entire day. We share the surprising ways this deepens our connection and gives us a renewed perspective on how to truly fill each other’s love tanks.

Next, in our Roots and Bloom Segment, we get real about Love Lessons; the importance of modeling healthy relationships in front of our kids. We open up about the habits, conversations, and even the hard moments that help our children see what love and mutual respect really look like.

And finally, we pivot to the Lifestyle Segment, where the 2025 NBA Finals matchup between the Indiana Pacers and OKC Thunder takes center stage. I'll also take you on a journey on how a kid growing up in Los Angles in the 90's, became one of the most loyal Indiana Pacers fans out there. From Reggie Miller to Tyrese Haliburton, this one’s for the hoop lovers.

Whether you’re here for relationship gems, parenting insight, or playoff passion — this episode brings it all. Tap in! 💬❤️🏀

Today we’ll be touching on: 

• Do Deaf People Dream In Sound?
• Top 3 Animated Films That Pulled On Your Heart Strings
• Opposite Day: Filling Up Our Spouse's Love Tank
• Love Lessons: Modeling A Healthy Relationship For Your Kids
• 2025 NBA Finals: Pacers In 6!!!!!

Anything you want to hear us talk about? Loved a topic we touched on? Let us know in the review section!

___________________________________

Also, Follow us here!

--Kristin:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/yourstrulykristin/ @Yourstrulykristin

Cook Book: https://a.co/d/5pqsuYE

--Keonte:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/keontemcdonald/ @Keontemcdonald

My Music: https://keonte.bandcamp.com/album/a-loss-for-words

Graphic Design: https://www.behance.net/gallery/170503095/Portfolio

Graphic IG: https://www.instagram.com/kingsmold/ @Kingsmold

___________________________________

Order our New Children's Book: "Where Dreams May Take You"

https://a.co/d/3KlouTY

My Unpopular Opinion Podcast by Keonte coming soon!

Song of The Week: Mereba "Starlight"

https://music.apple.com/us/album/starlight-my-baby/1771508964?i=1771509230

Film of the Week: The Wild Robot (Netflix)

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/crafted/donations

Ep. 74: Forever Ever? Breaking Down Netflix’s ‘Forever’

In this episode, we dive into Netflix’s latest hit Forever, the coming-of-age drama that’s capturing hearts and sparking real conversations. Hosted by your favorite married duo, we break down the series in three powerful sections:

Young Love: We unpack the show’s portrayal of early relationships and first impressions, what felt real, what hit close to home, and how the teenage version of love still manages to teach us about ourselves today.

Parenting: As parents of teenagers ourselves, we reflect on the emotional tug-of-war of raising teens while still trying to stay connected as individuals and partners. We talk about how Forever nails the highs and lows of modern parenting and how we can relate.

Mara Brock Akil: Finally, we spotlight the visionary mind behind the series. From Girlfriends to Being Mary Jane, Mara Brock Akil’s storytelling has shaped how we see ourselves on screen. We discuss her signature style, recurring themes, and why Forever might be her most personal work yet.

This episode is part love letter, part real talk. Grab your favorite drink, tune in, and join the conversation. 💬✨

Today we’ll be touching on: 

• Where Did The Word “Soulmate” Come From? 
• Young Love: First Impressions & Date
• Parenting: Teenagers & Finding Yourself
• The Genius That Is Mara Brock Akil

Anything you want to hear us talk about? Loved a topic we touched on? Let us know in the review section!

___________________________________

Also, Follow us here!

--Kristin:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/yourstrulykristin/ @Yourstrulykristin

Cook Book: https://a.co/d/5pqsuYE

--Keonte:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/keontemcdonald/ @Keontemcdonald

My Music: https://keonte.bandcamp.com/album/a-loss-for-words

Graphic Design: https://www.behance.net/gallery/170503095/Portfolio

Graphic IG: https://www.instagram.com/kingsmold/ @Kingsmold

___________________________________

Order our New Children's Book: "Where Dreams May Take You"

https://a.co/d/3KlouTY

My Unpopular Opinion Podcast by Keonte coming soon!

Song of The Week: Nao “Elevate”

https://music.apple.com/us/album/elevate/1779334922?i=1779334930

Show of the Week: Forever (Netflix)

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/crafted/donations

Ep. 73: To Share or Not To Share? Locations With Your Spouse, Sinners & Black Film Pt. 2 & Consequences For Kids Pt. 2

In this episode, we embark on a flavorful journey through time, exploring the rich history of tamales, a culinary tradition dating back to 8000 BCE .

Transitioning from the kitchen to the heart, we delve into the topic of To Share or not to Share? That is the question when it comes to location sharing between partners. Is it a gesture of trust or a potential invasion of privacy? We discuss the pros and cons, considering perspectives that highlight both safety benefits and concerns about autonomy .

In the second part of our Parenting on Purpose series, we tackle the sensitive issue of physical discipline and alternatives when it comes to Consequences for Kids. What are the psychological and behavioral impacts of corporal punishment on children?

Finally, we share our thoughts on Ryan Coogler's latest film, Sinners. Set in 1930s Mississippi, this genre-defying movie intertwines supernatural horror with historical themes, offering a unique cinematic experience.

Tune in for a blend of cultural insights, personal reflections, and thoughtful discussions.

Today we’ll be touching on:

• Tamales... Where Did They Come From & Why?
• To Share or Not To Share? Locations With Your Spouse
• Consequences For Kids Pt. 2: Physical Discipline
• "Sinners" & The Black Film Experience Part. 2

Anything you want to hear us talk about? Loved a topic we touched on? Let us know in the review section!

___________________________________

Also, Follow us here!

--Kristin:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/yourstrulykristin/ @Yourstrulykristin

Cook Book: https://a.co/d/5pqsuYE

--Keonte:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/keontemcdonald/ @Keontemcdonald

My Music: https://keonte.bandcamp.com/album/a-loss-for-words

Graphic Design: https://www.behance.net/gallery/170503095/Portfolio

Graphic IG: https://www.instagram.com/kingsmold/ @Kingsmold

___________________________________

Order our New Children's Book: "Where Dreams May Take You"

https://a.co/d/3KlouTY

My Unpopular Opinion Podcast by Keonte coming soon!

Song of The Week: Nobigdyl Feat. Jon Keith "Rob Hell"

https://music.apple.com/us/album/rob-hell-feat-jon-keith/1800969258?i=1800969259

Film of the Week: Sinners

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/crafted/donations