Today, we’re diving into a conversation that’s gonna get a little *canna-curious*! I’m joined by the incredible Dr. Demetria Bates, a nurse practitioner who’s making waves in the cannabis world.

If you’ve ever been curious about cannabis or felt like you’re stuck in the “canna-closet,” this episode is for you. Dr. Bates shares her journey from traditional medicine to becoming a certified cannabis educator. We’re talking all about how cannabis can be a natural alternative to those prescription meds that come with a laundry list of side effects. We’re also breaking down the myths, the stigma, and the science behind CBD, THC, and everything in between.

Whether you’re looking for ways to manage anxiety, pain, or even just curious about the benefits for kids and pets, we’re covering it all. Dr. Bates also spills the tea on the differences between natural cannabis and those synthetic Delta-8 products you see popping up everywhere.

So grab your notebook, your favorite drink, and get ready to take notes, because this episode is packed with gems that just might change the way you think about cannabis. And who knows? By the time this episode ends, I might just be ready to step out of my own canna-closet too!

Make sure you tune in, share this episode with your girls, and get ready to explore the world of cannabis with an open mind. Let’s get into it!

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Today, we have an incredible guest joining us, my girl Nia Renee! She’s not just a powerhouse; she’s the creator of “How to Love a Battered Woman,” a relationship coach, motivational speaker, author, and so much more.

Now, y’all already know I love to start things off by letting my guests properly introduce themselves, so we can make sure we’re putting some respect on her name! Nia opens up about her journey, sharing how she turned her pain into purpose. She talks about her traumatic childhood, growing up in a household where her mother was not just a parent, but also her first bully. This led her into a cycle of toxic and abusive relationships in adulthood because that chaos was all she knew.

We dive deep into the roots of her trauma, discussing how her upbringing affected her view on relationships and self-worth. Nia shares how she had to unlearn those toxic patterns and do the hard work to heal and grow. She gets real about how, for so many of us, the issues we face as adults are rooted in childhood experiences that we haven’t fully recognized or worked through.

Nia’s story is a powerful reminder that no matter what you’ve been through, you can heal, grow, and step into your power. She talks about the importance of developing a strong relationship with yourself, learning to trust your own instincts, and setting boundaries to protect your peace. Nia also highlights that healing is a journey, not a destination, and it’s okay if we slip up sometimes—as long as we keep moving forward.

This episode is all about breaking free from the cycles of abuse and trauma, and learning to love yourself first so that you can attract the love you truly deserve. Nia’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, self-awareness, and the importance of doing the inner work to create the life and love you want. So, if you’re ready to stop playin’ and start workin’ on your healing, this is the episode for you!

CONNECT:

Follow Nia on IG: http://instagram.com/howtoloveabatteredwoman

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In this episode, Rosalee shares her journey from banking to becoming a professional nanny and doula. She explains how her passion for caregiving, stemming from her childhood and teenage motherhood, led her to this fulfilling career. Rosalee discusses the misconceptions about nannying and the significant impact a skilled nanny can have on a family's life.

We delve into the critical role of postpartum doulas and the difference they make for new mothers, especially in the African-American community where traditional support systems may be lacking. Rosalee emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive village, even if it means hiring help, and addresses the guilt and anxiety that often accompany the decision to seek external support.

Rosalee also talks about her business, Mothers Helping Hands Atlanta, which offers a range of services including nannying, postpartum care, and medical staffing. She highlights the importance of planning for postpartum needs and provides practical tips for new parents on how to utilize resources like FSA funds and meal trains.

Tune in to hear Rosalee's inspiring story, her tips for new mothers, and the invaluable services her company provides. This episode is packed with insightful advice, empowering messages, and a reminder that it's okay to ask for help and prioritize your well-being.

CONNECT:

Visit Mothers Helping Hands Atlanta

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This week, I'm sitting down with the incredible Courtney Smith, a former stay-at-home mom who turned her kitchen creations into a multi-million-dollar business! Courtney is the founder and CEO of Cristina's Curls, an organic hair and skincare line for children, inspired by her own daughter's battle with cradle cap and eczema.

In this episode, Courtney takes us through her journey from whipping up natural remedies in her kitchen to running a full-blown business with a dedicated team. We dive deep into the challenges of scaling a product-based business, the importance of communication in marriage and business, and how to stay true to your brand’s values—even when the big retail stores come knocking.

Whether you're a mama, a mogul, or somewhere in between, Courtney's story is sure to inspire you to stop playing with your potential and start making your dreams a reality.

CONNECT:

Follow Cristina's Curls on IG: http://instagram.com/cristinascurls_

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On this episode of Girl Stop Playin', I'm sitting down with licensed marriage and family therapist, Melissa Dumaz, to dig deep into the real work of healing and self-care. Melissa is not only an expert in EMDR therapy—a powerful tool for overcoming trauma—but she's also a holistic healing coach who's all about helping women prioritize their well-being without sacrificing their ambition.

We’re talking about everything from recognizing trauma responses in our everyday behavior to the challenges of truly putting ourselves first in a world that tells us to keep pushing. Melissa breaks down how high-achieving women often neglect self-care and why success can sometimes be a trauma response. We’re getting real about setting boundaries, scheduling personal time, and even learning to delegate tasks to protect our peace.

If you're on your own healing journey—or thinking about starting one—this episode is for you. We're not just talking about the what, but the how. How to really sit with yourself, confront your ish, and make meaningful changes. Plus, we dive into EMDR and other wellness practices that might just be the key to unlocking a healthier, happier you. This conversation is all about embracing the messy, uncomfortable work of healing because when you know better, you do better. 

CONNECT:

Follow Melissa on IG: http://instagram.com/melissadumaz

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Today, we're talking about something that's often misunderstood but so critical to our well-being—endometriosis.

I'm bringing on the powerhouse, Dr. L.J., the holistic hormone expert who's all about helping us understand our bodies better. Dr. L.J. shares her personal journey of battling endometriosis for 16 years before finally getting a proper diagnosis. Sis, it's not just about painful periods—it's chronic, systemic inflammation that affects your entire body.

We dive into why black women are often misdiagnosed, the disparities in healthcare, and the importance of advocating for yourself. Dr. L.J. breaks down what endometriosis really is, why it's so often missed, and how you can stand up for your health in a system that's not always on our side. Plus, we talk about the importance of holistic health, functional medicine, and why simply managing symptoms isn't enough—we need to thrive!

This episode is packed with truth bombs and real talk about what it means to live well and why we need to stop playing with our health. Tune in and take notes, because this is the info we all need to hear!

CONNECT:

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On this episode of Girl Stop Playin', I'm reconnecting with my girl Makini Smith, and trust me, this conversation is deep! Makini is not just a transformational mindset coach, podcast host, and five-time author—she's also a mother, a grandmother, and a true chain-breaker when it comes to healing generational trauma.

We dive into the powerful lessons Makini has learned on her journey from a young mother at 17 to a woman who's been through the wringer and come out stronger. We talk about the mother wound, the impact of childhood trauma on our adult relationships, and the hard truths about how unresolved issues can shape our lives and the lives of our children. Makini gets real about her own experiences, including a traumatic relationship that forced her to confront her deepest wounds and set healthier boundaries.

This episode is all about doing the work—because if you don’t, you’re going to keep attracting the same toxic situations. We also discuss the importance of therapy, the challenges of breaking generational cycles, and how to heal from the inside out. If you're on a healing journey or just trying to figure out why you keep ending up in the same situations, this conversation is for you.

CONNECT:

Follow Makini on IG: http://instagram.com/makinismith

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Today, I have the pleasure of chatting with the incredible Dana Frank! Dana is the general managing partner of her family’s company, Frank Family Properties, and has spent the last 25 years expanding their real estate investments across Washington state and Arizona. Under her leadership, the company has been featured in the Seattle Times and celebrated for its achievements in property management.

In this episode, Dana and I dive deep into the dynamics of running a family business, the importance of creating generational wealth, and how to navigate the ups and downs of working with family. Dana shares valuable lessons on instilling a strong work ethic in your children and how to ensure they understand the value of hard work without feeling entitled.

We also touch on the current economic climate and Dana’s expert advice on investing in real estate. Plus, we discuss the changes that come with menopause and Dana’s personal journey through it, including practical tips for managing symptoms.

Tune in for an enlightening conversation filled with wisdom, practical advice, and inspiring stories that will help you navigate your personal and professional life with confidence.

CONNECT:

Connect with Dana Online

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This week I have my girl Lauren, known for her RHOA appearances alongside her sister, here to share her inspiring journey and wisdom.

In this episode, Lauren opens up about her life growing up in Atlanta, her career journey, and the profound experiences that have shaped her path. We dive deep into her transition from working with her sister, Porsha Williams, on various business ventures to finding her own voice and passion in yoga and meditation. Lauren’s authenticity and commitment to living a balanced life shine through as she discusses the importance of self-awareness and mental health.

We also explore the challenges and pressures of being in the public eye, especially on social media, and how Lauren manages to stay grounded amidst the noise. She shares her strategies for dealing with online negativity and the significance of therapy, breathwork, and journaling in maintaining mental well-being.

Lauren’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of self-discovery. She candidly discusses her experiences with anxiety, the impact of past traumas, and the journey toward healing and personal growth. Her insights into coping mechanisms and the importance of being gentle with oneself are both inspiring and practical.

Tune in to hear Lauren's heartfelt journey, her tips for navigating life’s challenges, and her advice for living authentically. This episode is packed with valuable lessons, encouraging words, and plenty of real talk. So grab your notebook and get ready to be inspired because she is about to drop some serious gems!

CONNECT:

Follow Lauren on IG: http://instagram.com/lodwill

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This week’s episode of Girl Stop Playin is all about healing, accountability, and tapping into our inner power. I was so excited to have Shelah Marie on the show. If y’all don’t know her yet, you’re about to get your life because this woman is all about wellness, mental health, and living authentically. We had such a dope conversation about her journey, and trust me, it’s one you don’t want to miss.

Shelah shared how she started her path to wellness after dealing with anxiety, depression, and toxic relationships in her 20s. She had this moment of realization where she was like, "Wait, I’m dating my mom’s energy but in a different body!" It hit her hard, and she decided enough was enough. She didn’t want to keep repeating the same cycles, so she got into meditation and started her wellness journey, which led her to build a community and start sharing her story online. 

We also got real about the “mother wound.” Y’all know that’s something I’ve talked about before—thinking I was the only one with mommy issues. Turns out, there are thousands of women dealing with the same thing. Shelah and I broke down how these relationships with our moms shape who we are and how we move through life, especially when it comes to attracting certain kinds of relationships. Accountability was a major theme—taking responsibility for the energy we allow into our lives. But Shelah hit on something so real: we as Black women are constantly told we need to be accountable, but we’re already carrying the weight of everyone else’s actions on top of our own.

Shelah and I had a deep conversation about how accountability sometimes feels like another way to shame women instead of empowering us. We need to own our choices, yes, but not from a place of guilt or blame. It’s about reclaiming our power and breaking the cycles that don’t serve us. We can’t keep attracting toxic situations without realizing the role we play in that, but it’s about doing the inner work from a place of love and growth, not shame.

This episode is a whole word, sis. If you’re ready to dive into some deep healing, accountability, and grace for yourself, hit play and listen in. Shelah Marie drops gems, and we’re talking real talk that will help you on your journey to living your best life.

CONNECT:

Follow Koe on IG: http://instagram.com/koereyelle

Follow Shelah on IG: http://instagram.com/theshelahmarie

Grab a copy of Shelia's book, UNRULY!

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