There comes a time when you gotta stop shrinking, stop explaining, and just start being.

On this episode of It’s About DAMN Time, I’m joined by the unapologetic truth-teller herself, Cookie Brown, host of The Dirty Bag Podcast.

We talk about what it really looks like to live in your truth—even when it makes people uncomfortable.

From people-pleasing patterns to the fear of being misunderstood, Cookie and I dig into the raw, unfiltered reality of choosing yourself over approval.

If you’ve ever struggled with being “too much,” if you’ve ever felt drained trying to make others comfortable with your shine… this one’s for you.

We’re not preaching.

We’re not performing. We’re speaking from the inside of the storm—just two folks who’ve had to unlearn the BS and find freedom in authenticity.

🧠 Key Topics:

• The trap of seeking validation
• Letting go of people-pleasing
• What “living your truth” actually looks like
• The emotional toll of being misunderstood
• Setting boundaries and filtering access
• Embracing freedom even if it’s uncomfortable

💥 Guest Info:

Cookie Brown

🎧 Host of The Dirty Bag Podcast

📲 @thedirtybagpodcast

🎙️ Listen to the show: The Dirty Bag Podcast on Spotify

🔥 It’s About DAMN Time Segment:

Cookie tells us why it’s about damn time to stop needing folks to cosign your calling—and why owning your truth will always be worth it.

💪🏾 D.A.M.N. Challenge:

Pick one area of your life where you’re still playing small to make others comfortable. This week, make ONE unapologetic decision just for you. No explanations. No disclaimers. Then hit me up and let me know what shifted.

🔗 Follow me on all platforms: @DaWholeDamnShow

🎧 Follow It’s About DAMN Time: @ItsAboutDamnTimePod

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