Hey Janeé

Hey Janeé Podcast – S1 E7: From Courtside to Camera with Jeremy Pargo & Vanessa Font

In this dynamic episode of Hey Janeé, host Janeé Bolden teams up with co-host Meaghan Taylor to welcome two incredible guests: former pro athlete turned filmmaker Jeremy Pargo and relationship advocate Vanessa Font. Jeremy dives into his inspiring journey from the basketball court to the director’s chair, giving listeners a behind-the-scenes look at his new film The Final Play. He opens up about the emotional and creative challenges of the transition, and how the movie tackles love, friendship, and the realities of modern dating.

Vanessa brings her signature insight to the conversation, shedding light on the role of supportive friendships and the complexities of today’s relationship culture. Meaghan delivers her “Thought of the Week,” reminding us of the power of self-compassion, while Janeé encourages everyone to celebrate their personal growth.

With honest reflections, good vibes, and plenty of laughs, this episode is packed with gems for anyone figuring out love, friendship, and purpose.

Janeé Bolden hosts an episode of "Hey Janeé" featuring special guest Markuann Smith, creator of MGM+ hit series "Godfather of Harlem." Janeé shares her joy of being a Disney adult experiencing Disneyland's 70th anniversary and riding new attractions. Zada recounts being recognized for her skit with Desi Banks. Markuann discusses the inspiration behind "Godfather of Harlem," his connection to Bumpy Johnson's family, and the show's historical accuracy. He highlights the importance of perseverance and creating one's own opportunities.

Episode 5: I Trust the Process of Change

On this episode of Hey Janeé, host Janeé Bolden is joined by co-host Meaghan Taylor and special guest Drew Sanders for a heartfelt conversation about change, pivots, and trusting the process of life.

From personal transformations to professional shifts, the trio dives deep into embracing uncomfortable growth and how unexpected detours often lead to powerful destinations. Drew opens up about his journey from music to entrepreneurship, founding the self-love-centered brand Aware, and how a major life pivot helped him reconnect with purpose and faith.

Janeé also shares the behind-the-scenes story of launching Hey Janeé after her own recent career pivot — a testament to embracing change with grace and determination.

Plus:
✨ Meaghan’s Thought of the Week: “Growth is never comfortable. Period.”
🎥 See, Stream, or Skip: Janeé’s watchlist highlights
📚 Weekly affirmation: “I trust the process of change. Each pivot I make brings me closer to my true self.”

This is an inspiring episode full of vulnerability, motivation, and laughter. Tap in and say “hey” back.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

In this special episode of Hey Janeé, we’re celebrating Black Music Month and Father’s Day with award-winning producer and documentarian Needlz. Janeé and Needlz dive into his musical journey—from DJing at FAMU to producing hits for artists like Cardi B, Drake, and Bruno Mars. They also discuss his powerful Netflix documentary Makayla's Voice, which tells the inspiring story of his nonverbal autistic daughter discovering her voice. Plus, Meaghan shares her Thought of the Week, and we reflect on the importance of honoring Black fatherhood and avoiding the commercialization of Juneteenth.

Actress Laila Pruitt (BMF) joins Janeé and Meaghan to talk about growing up on set, finding balance as a working college student, and what legacy means to her right now. From Delta sisterhood to her directing dreams, Laila opens up about honoring her purpose and creating space for joy, rest, and the stories she wants to tell.

Affirmation of the episode: “When I lift others, I rise. My purpose is connected to the good I give.”

Episode 2: “Sensitivity Is My Superpower”

Recorded May 28, 2025 | Hosted by Janeé Bolden

Guest: Shanti Das | Co-Host: Meaghan

In this heart-centered episode of Hey Janeé, your host Janeé Bolden opens up about the joy of being seen and supported following the successful launch of the podcast. Joined by co-host Meaghan, the two celebrate their community’s love, reflect on the power of starting something new, and share their current energy check-in.

Then, we’re joined by the inspiring Shanti Das—legendary music executive turned mental health advocate and founder of Silence the Shame. From her days working with icons like Outkast, Prince, TLC, and Usher to her transformative work in wellness, Shanti shares what it really looks like to pivot with purpose. She opens up about protecting her peace, building new platforms like the MiBo Show podcast, and why choosing joy is revolutionary.

Also in this episode:

    •    Meaghan drops wisdom: “The perfect life doesn’t exist—but a good one does, and you get to decide what that means.”

    •    See, Stream, Skip: Janeé breaks down what to watch and what to walk away from—including Mission: Impossible, Rock the Block’s finale, and the troubling narratives surrounding Sean Combs.

    •    Behind the byline: Janeé shares the inspiration behind her latest Essence piece, The Rest Spot, exploring the importance of rest, boundaries, and balance.

    •    Mental Wellness Month spotlight: A real convo about burnout, boundary-setting, and how Shanti and Meaghan prioritize recovery and rest.

💬 Affirmation of the Week:

“Sensitivity is my superpower. I honor my emotions as signs of strength, not weakness. I feel deeply, and that is my gift.”

💌 Don’t forget to subscribe to Janeé’s Substack for links to everything mentioned in this episode.

🎧 Tap in now—and say “Hey Janeé!” back. Next week’s guest: Laila Pruitt, aka Nicole from BMF.

On the first episode of 'Hey Janeé' we meet entertainment journalist Janeé Bolden, celebrating her birthday and her new era as a full-time entrepreneur. In the episode, Janeé opens up about her personal milestone with show producer Meaghan Taylor and intern Zada Luby. The trio also discusses the Met Gala as a recent moment of Black Joy. Janeé discusses the new Netflix series "Forever." The pod also share thoughts on 'Sinners' before discussing Janeé's recent articles on NYC eatery Sei Less, Dream Machine's AI x Library project and "Temptation Island" breakout star Hashim Moore. Before closing out Janeé shares the affirmation for the week.