Guilty Privilege

Amber Cabral sits down with Tanika Gray Valbrun, Founder & CEO of The White Dress Project, Inc. and a CNN Content Producer, for a powerful conversation on women’s reproductive health and advocacy. Tanika shares her deeply personal journey with uterine fibroids, from misdiagnoses in her teens to the search for meaningful support and answers. She discusses the impact of systemic biases on women of color and the critical importance of accurate diagnoses and adequate resources.

In this episode, Tanika also delves into the role of The White Dress Project in bringing awareness and change, from community support to the official designation of July as Fibroid Awareness Month. She underscores the need for funding and research, as well as the importance of seeking informed medical opinions and exploring diagnostic options like MRIs.

This conversation is both a call to action and a reminder of the power of personal advocacy.

Tune in for an inspiring discussion that highlights the importance of awareness, community, and equitable healthcare for all women.

KEY POINTS:

- How Tanika founded the White Dress Project in 2024 and its mission 

- The importance of providing support for women dealing with reproductive health issues

- On misconceptions women face in diagnosing and treating fibroids

- On addressing the medical bias and racial disparities in the treatment of fibroids

- Awareness: WDP’s success in creating Fibroid Awareness Month 

- Tanika's experience with multiple fibroids and its impact on her motherhood dream 

- The power of storytelling and advocating for change in the reproductive health space

- Tanika’s advice for women who want to advocate for public health issues 

- What is one privilege that Tanika refuses to feel guilty about?

QUOTABLES:

"It is what I'm here to do — advocate for people who are managing life with fibroids and managing life with reproductive health issues." – Tanika Gray Valbrun

“One of the things I wish I could have done immediately after was almost give people a guidebook of questions to ask – no matter what these things –and if you are uncomfortable with the answers, you should find another doctor." – Amber Cabral

“I wanted to create community. I wanted people to understand that they could advocate for themselves, that they were the CEOs of their bodies.” – Tanika Gray Valbrun

GUEST RESOURCES

Tanika Gray Valbrun

IG | @tgvwearswhite

LinkedIn | @tanikagrayvalbrun

Amber Cabral 

IG | @bamcabral

LinkedIn | @ambercabral

Facebook | @amber.cabral

Twitter | @BamCabral 

Watch Amber’s TED TALK episode here.

Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon! 

Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture

Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others - 

Guilty Privilege is produced by EPYC Media Network

In this segment, Bahja Johnson and Amber dives into the often-overlooked dynamics of leadership accountability and community-driven business. She challenges leaders to see the impact of their choices on community trust and financial success, calling for a mindset shift toward equity and belonging. Bahja explores why quick decisions to abandon new ideas can lead to long-term business struggles, emphasizing the importance of giving initiatives time to build trust. This conversation offers insights on connecting authentically with communities, understanding real customer needs, and taking the time to build brand loyalty.

Listen to the full episode here

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/13-achieving-inclusion-isnt-just-talk-bahja-johnson/id1696548133?i=1000637515630

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/21mvIpl7LHUv5BCL9YG1Pq?si=2c602c4cef3e404a

Youtube: https://youtu.be/lWforuuOfIA

GUEST INFORMATION: 

Bahja Johnson

IG | @bahjaleila

LinkedIn | bahjajohnson

Facebook | bahja.johnson

Twitter | @bahjaleila

Amber Cabral 

IG | @bamcabral

LinkedIn | @ambercabral

Facebook | @amber.cabral

Twitter | @BamCabral 

Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon! 

Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture

Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others - 

Guilty Privilege is produced by EPYC Media Network

In this episode, Amber sits down with Nicka Sewell Smith, an expert genealogist, speaker, and consultant with over 20 years of experience in family history and ancestral research. Together, they discuss the profound power and privilege in uncovering one’s heritage and the importance of documenting family stories to preserve legacies. Nicka shares moving personal stories from her own genealogical journey, revealing how connecting with living relatives and discovering hidden ancestral ties can deepen one’s sense of identity and belonging.

They also dive into the latest in genealogical technology, including DNA testing advancements that can unlock family secrets hidden for generations. Nicka provides practical tips on gathering, documenting, and safeguarding family history, offering advice on connecting with relatives, even across generations, and using creative methods to preserve precious memories.

This episode is an inspiring reminder of the gift of family history and the responsibility we each carry to pass down our heritage. Join Amber and Nicka to discover how honoring your roots can shape your future.

KEY POINTS:

- What is genealogy?

- The value of preserving family history and cultural heritage

- Digitalization: Ancestry from storytelling to DNA testing 

- The powerful story behind A Dream Delivered: The Lost Letters of Hawkins Wilson film 

- Connecting with African-American ancestors through genealogy research

- The importance of privacy in DNA testing

- The pivotal role of relationship-building 

- Preserving history: How photography connects with storytelling 

- A preview of what Black Progen is 

- What’s one thing that Nicka refuses to be guilty about? 

QUOTABLES:

“As a family historian, as a genealogist, you have to be a connector. You're like the heartbeat of your family… And I do that in my life. I do that in my family.” – Nicka Sewell Smith

“What I've learned in researching this community is that the remnants of these people who survived the transatlantic slave trade brought together these communities with people they don't know. They make a community for themselves, and their children intermarry, and then that's how we end up.” – Nicka Sewell Smith

GUEST RESOURCES

Nicka Sewell Smith

LinkedIn | @nickasewellsmith

Amber Cabral 

IG | @bamcabral

LinkedIn | @ambercabral

Facebook | @amber.cabral

Twitter | @BamCabral 

Watch Amber’s TED TALK episode here.

Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon! 

Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture

Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others - 

Guilty Privilege is produced by EPYC Media Network

In this conversation, Shawn Pean dives into the challenges and triumphs of breaking barriers in the fashion industry. He discusses his commitment to opening doors for people of color, the lack of representation in leadership roles, and how he’s pushing for equity within a space that has often overlooked diverse talent. Shawn also shares personal stories, including how he was recognized with a Bragg Business Achievement Award and the importance of lifting others as you rise. Tune in to hear his candid thoughts on creating meaningful change in fashion.

Listen to the full episode here

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep12-fashions-diversity-dilemma-heres-the-truth-with/id1696548133?i=1000635503659

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6SPgyeleKMWs1kiB0t4SFK?si=dfba25458bd54dad

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wwnI-8gbSUw

GUEST INFORMATION: 

Shawn Pean | June79

IG | @mr.shawn.p

Twitter | @peanshawn

Facebook | @shawn.pean.9

Amber Cabral 

IG | @bamcabral

LinkedIn | @ambercabral

Facebook | @amber.cabral

Twitter | @BamCabral 

Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon! 

Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture

Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others - 

Guilty Privilege is produced by EPYC Media Network

In this episode, Amber is joined by Jeannette Ward, the Co-Founder and CEO of NuProject, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping people-of-color entrepreneurs in the legal cannabis industry by providing financial assistance. 

Jeannette sheds light on the deep-rooted inequities within the cannabis industry, particularly affecting black and brown-owned businesses. She discusses the high costs and significant barriers to entry, including exorbitant licensing fees and the lack of access to banking services, which make it difficult for marginalized communities to thrive. 

Their conversation also delves into the critical need for legalization and the allocation of cannabis tax revenues toward reparations, using examples from states like Illinois and New York to illustrate how these funds can address systemic underinvestment in black communities. She also highlights the ongoing impact of cannabis criminalization on black communities and advocates for greater involvement in organizations like the Marijuana Policy Project (MPP) and Students for Sensible Drug Policy (SSDP) to push for racial equity in cannabis legislation. 

Tune in with Amber and Jeannette for an insightful conversation on navigating the cannabis business landscape.

KEY POINTS:

- Jeannette’s career journey to NuProject 

- On leading a business in the cannabis industry 

- Factors to consider: right investors, state, and regulations

- Challenges faced by black-owned businesses

- The potential for federal legalization for cannabis businesses

- The importance of giving people of color access to licenses 

- Cannabis criminalization and its impact on black communities

- How getting involved supports racial equity in cannabis policy

- Examples of states and the role of cannabis taxes in reparations

- How cannabis tax revenue can address underinvestment in black communities

- What privilege does Jeannette refuse to be guilty about?

QUOTABLES:

“There's so many layers that cannabis criminalization has woven for black communities. [It] is such a central part of policing and how the system has continued and how much money the system makes — 43% of drug arrests — or cannabis arrests.” – Jeannette Ward

“When we're doing our underwriting, our evaluation is based on character, on future business projections, [and] not based on your credit score or how much cash you can bring to the table. Eventually, any bank on the corner will lend to a cannabis business, but what banks aren't figuring out is how to lend to black people [or] how to lend women – [which are] we're working on.” – Jeannette Ward

RESOURCES

Jeannette Ward

LinkedIn | @jeannette-ward-1614ab5/ 

Amber Cabral 

IG | @bamcabral

LinkedIn | @ambercabral

Facebook | @amber.cabral

Twitter | @BamCabral 

Watch Amber’s TED TALK episode here.

Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon! 

Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture

Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others - 

Guilty Privilege is produced by EPYC Media Network

In this segment, Jona Genova explores the misconceptions surrounding healing and well-being, particularly in communities that mistrust traditional healthcare. We dive into the power of alternative practices like meditation and Reiki, and how they provide essential balance in a fast-paced world. From slowing down to truly experience life, to understanding the importance of receptive practices, Jona shares invaluable insights into how healing goes beyond conventional methods.

Listen to the full episode here

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep11-misconceptions-of-healing-challenging-the/id1696548133?i=1000633942932

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/70XYBETXEPNxLv3n0uhzjT?si=32c4a57aa80e4d8e

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yDr5-qYvLeo

GUEST INFORMATION: 

Jona Genova

IG | @jonagenova

Twitter | @jona_genova

Youtube | jonagenova

Amber Cabral 

IG | @bamcabral

LinkedIn | @ambercabral

Facebook | @amber.cabral

Twitter | @BamCabral 

Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon! 

Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture

Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others - 

Guilty Privilege is produced by EPYC Media Network

In this episode, Amber Cabral is joined by Yunice Emir, Head of Corporate Communications at Moët Hennessy - North America, with over 15 years of experience in corporate social responsibility, marketing, and community partnerships. Yunice shares her passion for turning insights into action and building brand loyalty through storytelling.

Together, they explore the meaning of luxury, privilege, and the importance of authenticity in both personal and professional life. They also discuss how joy, positivity, and morning routines can shape success, as well as the complexities of corporate communications in connecting with diverse audiences while staying true to brand values.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about self-awareness, positivity, and the power of embracing your purpose.

KEY POINTS:

- Self-love and how it influences the room with joy and positivity

- On trying out the "100 Happy Days" challenge

- The pivotal role of having good habits and consistency

- On navigating boundaries and authenticity

- The impact of their professional and personal choices

- Yunice’s definition of luxury

- The importance of simplicity and authenticity in luxury

- Joy and positivity as forms of privilege

- Yunice’s purpose: self-love, personal branding, and real estate

- The privilege of Yunice that she refuses to be guilty about

QUOTABLES:

“Luxury is elevation. It's an experience. It's also relative as well. It's a feeling, it's an emotion, it's inspiration.” – Yunice Emir

“It’s a trinity — My positivity, optimism, and my light. It's powerful [and] I focus on definitely using it for good and using it to inspire people.” – Yunice Emir

GUEST RESOURCES

Yunice Emir

IG | https://www.instagram.com/yunicejemir/ 

LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuniceemir/ 

Amber Cabral 

IG | @bamcabral

LinkedIn | @ambercabral

Facebook | @amber.cabral

Twitter | @BamCabral 

Watch Amber’s TED TALK episode here.

Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon! 

Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture

Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others - 

Guilty Privilege is produced by EPYC Media Network

In this segment, we dive deep into the concept of privilege—how it shows up in everyday moments and often goes unnoticed. From language to simple conveniences like finding bandages or hosiery that match your skin tone, privilege extends beyond wealth and status. By recognizing these small privileges, we can begin to understand larger issues like colorism and inequity. Tune in as we explore how acknowledging privilege can help create more inclusive and equitable environments.

Listen to the full episode here

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep10-the-power-of-your-privilege-how-to-be-a/id1696548133?i=1000632390144

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4ROgd3rmJJgvz4sx28mI09?si=c2b4cb1268ef4789

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJTuRyekP8M

RESOURCES

Amber Cabral 

IG | @bamcabral

LinkedIn | @ambercabral

Facebook | @amber.cabral

Twitter | @BamCabral 

Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon! 

Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture

Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others - 

Guilty Privilege is produced by EPYC Media Network

In this solo episode, Amber dives deep into the intricacies of confidence, impostor syndrome, and the importance of speaking up. She shares her unique perspective on why confidence often comes from pushing past discomfort and embracing honest, direct communication. 

Drawing from personal experiences and insights, Amber discusses the difference between confidence and arrogance, while offering practical solutions for those struggling with impostor syndrome. Amber also tackles the challenge of difficult conversations, emphasizing that being uncomfortable is necessary for personal and professional growth. She highlights the importance of being liked versus respected and trusted, illustrating how confidence can lead to becoming a better version of yourself.

Struggling with your confidence? Tune in and learn how to overcome it.

KEY POINTS

- On navigating confidence, impostor syndrome, and speaking up

- The importance of being honest and direct

- Being uncomfortable: Ways to approach difficult conversations

- The difference between confidence and arrogance 

- Amber’s perspective on impostor syndrome 

- Some solutions to deal with impostor syndrome

- Remember: confidence > arrogance, push past discomfort, speak up!

QUOTES 

“Confidence is how other people see you. It isn't really something that I think exists in your own body.” – Amber Cabral

“When we are being confident, we are sharing our ideas, we are still being considerate of how people will receive them, we are thoughtfully constructing messages that are going to be impactful, but create space for flexibility in conversation.”  – Amber Cabral

RESOURCES

Amber Cabral 

IG | @bamcabral

LinkedIn | @ambercabral

Facebook | @amber.cabral

Twitter | @BamCabral 

Watch Amber’s TED TALK episode here.

Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon! 

Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture

Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others - 

Guilty Privilege is produced by EPYC Media Network

In this segment, Jacqueline M. Baker dives into the often misunderstood world of etiquette, exploring how it influences our daily interactions and professional lives. She discusses the importance of making etiquette relatable and inclusive, the dangers of using knowledge to shame others, and how to approach these rules with empathy. Jacqueline shares personal stories and practical advice on how to navigate social situations with confidence while encouraging others to learn without judgment.

Listen to the full episode here

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep9-disruptive-leadership-and-bridging-etiquette-gaps/id1696548133?i=1000630778047

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5vQW1tYDKfelK2VRE9nl8Z?si=9d37fe2a6076418f

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SHYi6XB3d2o

RESOURCES:

GUEST INFORMATION: 

Jacqueline M. Baker | https://jacquelinembaker.com/ 

Scarlet Communications | https://www.thescarletway.com/ 

IG | https://www.instagram.com/magicaljax 

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/jacquelinemichellebaker 

Twitter | http://www.twitter.com/magicaljax 

Tune in to the Just Start: From Ideas to Action podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/just-start-from-ideas-to-action/id1484539728 

Get your copy of The Unexpected Leader: Discovering the Leader Within You: https://www.amazon.com/Unexpected-Leader-Discovering-Within-You/dp/1119877679 

Amber Cabral 

IG | @bamcabral

LinkedIn | @ambercabral

Facebook | @amber.cabral

Twitter | @BamCabral 

Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon! 

Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture

Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others - 

Guilty Privilege is produced by EPYC Media Network