Dating today looks nothing like it did a decade ago. With shifting societal expectations, online connections, and an evolving understanding of relationships, how can we navigate modern dating with clarity and confidence?

In this episode of Emboldened with Jessica, Jessica is joined by Cortenay Crosson—a trauma-focused somatic bodyworker. They break down the complexities of contemporary dating. They discuss the impact of societal norms, the role of personal experiences, and the dynamics of genuine connection. From online dating trends to understanding body language, setting boundaries, and dealing with rejection—this conversation is packed with actionable insights to help you curate a dating experience that aligns with your needs and values.

If you’re ready to take charge of your dating life, embrace self-reflection, and build deeper connections, this episode is for you!

Takeaways:

🔹 How societal expectations shape dating dynamics 🔹 The role of embodiment and nervous system awareness in relationships 🔹 How to recognize red flags, set boundaries, and navigate rejection with   self-compassion 🔹 The importance of humor, direct communication, and emotional wellness in dating 🔹 How to curate relationships that honor your personal needs and values

🔹 How social media and dating apps shape modern relationships 🔹 Why self-awareness is the key to authentic connections 🔹 The art of gracefully ending relationships and moving forward with clarity

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Your donation helps cover production costs and improve audio quality. Click here to donate and keep the bold conversations coming! Thank you for your support! 🙌✨

To follow and support Cortenay Crosson, or The Healing Collective, LLC 

Website:  www.CortenayCrosson.com 

TikTok: TheHealingCollectiveLLC 

Instagram: TheHealingCollectiveLLC 

Facebook: TheHealingCollectiveLLC 

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson

Guest: Cortenay Crosson

Produced by: Ariele

Edited by: Ariele

Stay Connected: 

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Facebook: @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica 

Youtube: @EmboldenedwithJessica

In celebration of Black History Month, Emboldened with Jessica is spotlighting the transformative power of entrepreneurship. Amidst today’s political and economic challenges, it's more important than ever for BIPOC communities, women, and LGBTQ+ individuals to achieve financial independence.  Jessica is joined by the esteemed Jason Jackson—renowned entrepreneur, partner at Futaleufu Partners, and co-founder of The Black Search Network, a thriving community dedicated to supporting Black entrepreneurs.  

Together, Jessica and Jason dive into the critical role of support systems, mentors, and the importance of dreaming beyond one's current reality. Jason shares his journey into entrepreneurship, and how he went from startup to success.  Along the way, he offers fun facts, inspiring stories, and practical strategies for navigating the entrepreneurial path, even without a safety net.

Learn how to embrace entrepreneurship and create a ripple effect of positive change in your community.

Whether you're just starting or looking to grow your business, this episode is filled with actionable advice and motivation to help you thrive in your entrepreneurial journey!

💜 Love the show? Support Emboldened with Jessica! 💜

Your donation helps cover production costs and improve audio quality. Click here to donate and keep the bold conversations coming! Thank you for your support! 🙌✨

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Economic Challenges

03:22 The Importance of Black-Owned Businesses

06:39 Imagining and Dreaming Beyond Current Realities

07:52 Jason's Journey into Entrepreneurship

12:32 The Role of Support Systems in Entrepreneurship

16:38 Overcoming Challenges in Business

25:41 Navigating Entrepreneurship Without a Safety Net

28:00 The Journey to the Top: Embracing the Climb

31:01 Testing the Waters: Skills for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

37:06 Networking: Building Connections and Finding Mentors

45:01 The Reality of Entrepreneurship: Work Hours and Balance

48:50 Giving Back: The Freedom of Entrepreneurship

52:06 Key Takeaways for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Stay Connected: 

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

FaceBook @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica 

Youtube: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson

Guest: Jason Jackson 

Produced by: Ariele & Jessica 

Edited by: Ariele

In this episode of Emboldened with Jessica, host Jessica Jackson, a Decolonizing Somatic Therapist, and Ariele examine personal rebrands and why they matter. They unpack how aligning your internal identity with your external perception can be transformative, allowing you a "cheat code" towards the life you've been working to create.

Jessica explores the importance of personal branding, guiding listeners through the stages of change involved in rebranding. From creative tools like vision boards, Bingo cards and intention boxes to actionable advice on hosting a personal rebrand party, this episode is packed with strategies to help you own your story and step into the life you're working towards.

The episode wraps up with a book recommendation from the Cozy Book Nook and a listener challenge to reflect on how they want to proceed with their personal brands.

Chapters:

00:00 - Understanding Personal Rebranding 03:01 - The Importance of Personal Branding 05:46 - Stages of Change in Personal Rebranding 09:05 - Creative Visioning Techniques 11:49 - Hosting a Personal Rebrand Party 14:52 - Setting Audacious Goals 18:10 - Visualization and Self-Reflection 20:54 - Cozy Book Nook Recommendation

💜 Love the show? Support Emboldened with Jessica! 💜

Your donation helps cover production costs and improve audio quality. Click here to donate and keep the bold conversations coming! Thank you for your support! 🙌✨

Jessica’s Cozy Book Nook - Bookshop 

1. More Than Enough: Claiming Space for Who You Are by Elaine Welteroth - Bookshop 

Takeaways:

• Personal rebranding aligns your internal identity with your external perception.

• Your name is your brand—it enters the room before you do.

• Rebranding can be a transformative tool to help you create the life you desire.

• Define who you are on your own terms, not based on external expectations.

• Vision boards and intention boxes are powerful tools for goal setting.

• A personal rebrand party fosters community, accountability, and support.

• Audacious goals inspire growth and push boundaries.

• Visualization techniques help clarify aspirations and shape your next steps.

• Community and mentorship are invaluable in personal development.

• Sharing your rebrand journey inspires others and builds meaningful connections.

Stay Connected: 

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

FaceBook @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica 

Youtube: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson

Produced by: Ariele & Jessica 

Edited by: Ariele

Summary:

In this episode of Emboldened with Jessica, host Jessica Jackson a Decolonizing Somatic Therapist, sits down with special guest Madeline Ammar, an Afroecletic Queer Somatic Therapist, and cosmic Faerie,  to dive into the complex and emotional world of family estrangement. Together, they explore the reasons behind family conflicts, the challenges of going no contact, and the grief that often accompanies these decisions.

This conversation illuminates the importance of self-care, setting boundaries, and protecting one's peace, especially during times like the holidays. Jessica and Madeline also discuss practical ways to navigate difficult family dynamics, find community and considerations on reconnecting with estranged family members.

This episode highlights the experience of family estrangement for Queer folx, and people of color. If you're feeling isolated or unsure about how to navigate or support a loved one with strained family dynamics this holiday season, this conversation is for YOU. ❤️

💜 Love the show? Support Emboldened with Jessica! 💜

Your donation helps cover production costs and improve audio quality. Click here to donate and keep the bold conversations coming! Thank you for your support! 🙌✨

Chapters:

00:00 Navigating Family Estrangement During the Holidays

02:51 Understanding Estrangement: Causes and Dynamics

06:09 The Process of Going No Contact

08:55 Breaking the Cycle of Family Conflict

12:10 Grief and Expectations in Family Relationships

15:06 Handling Guilt and External Pressures

17:52 Protecting Your Peace During Family Gatherings

21:01 Reconnecting with Estranged Family Members

24:08 Volunteering and Building Community

26:53 Final Thoughts on Estrangement and Healing

Madeline Ammar, LCSW's  Contact:

Instagram: @Reishi_Somatics

Website: Psychology Today Profile

Jessica’s Cozy Book Nook - Bookshop 

1. Mother Hunger: How Adult Daughters Can Understand and Heal from Lost Nurturance, Protection, and  Guidance by Kelly McDaniel- Bookshop 

2. Children of the Self-absorbed: A Grown-Up's Guide to Getting Over Narcissistic Parents by Nina W. Brown  - Bookshop

3. Drama Free: A Guide to Managing Unhealthy Family Relationships by Nedra Glover Tawwab - Bookshop

Stay Connected: 

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

FaceBook @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica 

Youtube: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson, LCPC, ASDCS

Guest: Madeline Ammar, LCSW 

Produced by: Jessica & Ariele

Edited by: Ariele

In this episode of 'Emboldened with Jessica', the conversation explores the intricate relationship between fashion and personal style, emphasizing how they shape identity and self-expression. The hosts discuss the evolving definitions of fashion and style, the societal implications of clothing choices, and the importance of comfort and confidence in personal expression. The episode also features an insightful interview with Justin Michael Hendricks, who discusses the intersection of fashion, community, and social justice, particularly within the context of ballroom culture and empowerment.

We explore the intersection of fashion and personal identity. Our wardrobe choices serve as a visual representation of who we are, conveying messages of confidence and individuality.

Wearing what makes us feel good can significantly enhance our mental well-being. We'll also discuss the evolving nature of personal style in the context of social media and inclusivity, focusing on the stories behind trends rather than just the trends themselves.

Joining us is special guest Justin Michael Hendricks, a prominent figure and advocate for social justice, and bringing ballroom culture to central Illinois. Together, we'll examine how fashion can act as a tool for activism and community empowerment.

So, grab your drink and join us as we delve into dressing with purpose and the profound impact it can have on our lives. Remember, style reflects who you are, and feeling good in your skin is paramount. Let's get started!

💜 Love the show? Support Emboldened with Jessica! 💜

Your donation helps cover production costs and improve audio quality. Click here to donate and keep the bold conversations coming! Thank you for your support! 🙌✨

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Fashion and Personal Style

03:00 Defining Fashion vs. Style

06:09 The Impact of Style on Identity and Perception

09:00 Fashion, Gender, and Social Norms

11:49 Sustainability and Accessibility in Fashion

15:14 The Role of Alter Egos in Personal Expression

18:09 Interview with Justin Michael Hendricks

25:01 Community and Fashion as a Tool for Empowerment

32:01 The Be Yourself Ball and Ballroom Culture

To follow Justin Michael Hendrix's  grassroots organization HitNHomeBoy

Food can be donated to 102 N. Neil St. Champaign IL. 61820

Government Municipality Building

Venmo: @HitNHomeboy88

CashApp: $HitNHomeboy88

Instagram: HITNHOMEBOY 

Facebook: HITNHOMEBOY

Twitter: HITNHOMEBOY

Jessica’s Cozy Book Nook - Bookshop 

Julián Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love - Bookshop

Stay Connected: 

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Facebook: @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica 

Youtube: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson, LCPC, ASDCS

Guest: Justin Michael Hendricks

Produced by: Ariele & Jessica

Edited by: Ariele

Summary: 

Hey, Emboldened Fam! 🌟 We're back with Part 2 of our deep dive into what it means to be "That Girl" – the unapologetically confident, radiant, and unapologetically YOU! 💁🏾‍♀️✨

In This Episode:

💖 Gratitude Practice: Discover how expressing gratitude daily can boost your mental and physical well-being. Whether it's through journaling or reflection, learn the power of appreciation.

💃🏽 Embrace Your Confidence: Dive into the concept of "Being That Girl" – owning your shine and not dimming your light for anyone. It's time to walk tall and celebrate your full, beautiful self!

🪞 Self-Acceptance and Body Positivity: Let’s talk self-love! Learn practical tips for embracing your body and shutting down negative self-talk.

📚 Book Recommendations: Get Jessica’s top book picks to inspire your journey of self-growth and empowerment.

🚧 Setting Boundaries: Understand the importance of setting healthy boundaries and surrounding yourself with positive, uplifting relationships.

💜 Love the show? Support Emboldened with Jessica! 💜

Your donation helps cover production costs and improve audio quality. Click here to donate and keep the bold conversations coming! Thank you for your support! 🙌✨

Jessica’s Cozy Book Nook - Bookshop 

1. You’re that Bitch by Bretman Rock - Bookshop

2. Girl Gurl Grrrl: On Womanhood and Belonging in the Age of Black Girl Magic by Kenya Hunt - Bookshop

Stay Connected: 

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

FaceBook @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica 

Youtube: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson

Produced by: Ariele & Jessica 

Edited by: Ariele

Summary: 

"That Girl"  is the confident, stylish, and unapologetically authentic version of yourself. Join Jessica and the highly anticipated return of Lisa Holmes as they discuss the journey into becoming "That Girl". 🌟

Together, they dive into the journey of understanding and standing in your power, exploring what it means to truly know your worth. Lisa shares a transformative moment in her life when she realized she would want to date herself, and how this revelation changed her perspective on relationships and self-love. 💕✨

They also chat about the importance of daily practices like expressing gratitude and celebrating yourself – because you deserve it! 🎉 Jessica and Lisa discuss the impact of surrounding yourself with a supportive squad that lifts you up and celebrates your uniqueness.

The episode wraps up with some practical tips on building self-esteem and recognizing your own value. Whether you're on a self-love journey or just looking for a boost of inspiration, this conversation is filled with wisdom, laughs, and a lot of love. ❤️

Listen now and join the conversation! 🎙️✨

💜 Love the show? Support Emboldened with Jessica! 💜

Your donation helps cover production costs and improve audio quality. Click here to donate and keep the bold conversations coming! Thank you for your support! 🙌✨

High 5 Strength Test - https://high5test.com/

Stay Connected: 

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

FaceBook @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica 

Youtube: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson

Guest: Lisa Holmes

Produced by: Ariele & Jessica

Edited by: Ariele

Catch Jessica Jackson in this bite-sized episode as she unpacks the pressure to shrink your body for summer and the societal narratives around it. Through Jessica’s health journey, she highlights the lifestyle switches that boosted her health. Jessica and Ariele tackle the often overlooked topic of perimenopause to the influence of social media on our body image.  Jessica touches on the role of social media and weighs in on some of the latest fitness trends like rebounders and vibration plates. 

💜 Love the show? Support Emboldened with Jessica! 💜

Your donation helps cover production costs and improve audio quality. Click here to donate and keep the bold conversations coming! Thank you for your support! 🙌✨

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Summer Body Pressure

02:19 Taking Care of Your Health

03:49 Navigating Perimenopause

07:57 Influence of Social Media and Fitness Trends

Stay Connected: 

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

FaceBook @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica 

Youtube: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson

Produced by: Ariele & Jessica Jackson

Edited by: Ariele

Summary:

Brace yourselves for an honest and hilarious chat with Jessica and Ariele as we dive into the summer dating scene and the art of being 'outside'. Jessica breaks down the essentials of setting clear intentions and being real with yourself and your dates. We also discuss the importance of setting ground rules with friends to keep everyone safe while having fun. From reconnecting with exes ('circling the block') to dealing with guys who expect financial indulgence ('drizzle drizzle'), and being upfront about what you want ('applying pressure'), this episode covers it all. Tune in as we wrap up with a lively discussion on the traits we crave in a summer fling. This is your go-to guide for a summer of love, laughter, and liberation!

💜 Love the show? Support Emboldened with Jessica! 💜

Your donation helps cover production costs and improve audio quality. Click here to donate and keep the bold conversations coming! Thank you for your support! 🙌✨

Chapters:

00:00 Dating in the Summer: Being 'Outside'

01:34 Setting Intentions and Being Honest

07:31 Exploring 'Circling the Block' and 'Applying Pressure'

13:59 Desired Traits for a Summer Partner

Stay Connected: 

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

FaceBook @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica 

Youtube: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson

Produced by: Ariele

Edited by: Ariele

In this episode, Jessica and Ariele dive deep into the world of friendships, exploring their significance, various levels, and the challenges they bring. They start by sharing statistics that highlight the importance of friendships for overall well-being. They discuss different tiers or levels of friendships, ranging from acquaintances to intimate friends, and emphasize the importance of recognizing the differences between these levels. The conversation also touches on the concept of "social fitness" and the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in building and maintaining friendships.

The hosts share personal anecdotes and insights into navigating friendships, including the impact of life changes, trauma bonding, and evolving dynamics over time. They also address common issues such as prioritizing romantic relationships over friendships and the importance of clear communication and boundaries in maintaining healthy friendships.

Throughout the episode, Jessica and Ariele encourage listeners to reflect on their own friendships, considering what they bring to the table and how they can improve as friends. They emphasize the value of self-compassion and celebration of the ways in which individuals show up for their friends.

💜 Love the show? Support Emboldened with Jessica! 💜

Your donation helps cover production costs and improve audio quality. Click here to donate and keep the bold conversations coming! Thank you for your support! 🙌✨

Stay Connected: 

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

FaceBook @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica 

Youtube: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson

Produced by: Ariele

Edited by: Ariele