Honest Conversations Podcast

EP.34 In this episode, I sit down with Mikenson Deroche, MECM, CBCP, co-founder of the Keep Pedaling Foundation, for a deep conversation about the power of names. Together, we reflect on our personal experiences with our names and how names influence perception, opportunity, and connection. This conversation invites a deeper look at how something as simple as a name can carry culture, history, and the ongoing negotiation between who we are and how we’re received in the world.

Guest Information:

Mikenson Deroche, MECM, CBCP
Co-founder, Keep Pedaling Foundation

Instagram: @_Watchmework

For more information on the Keep Pedaling Foundation:
@keeppedalingfoundation

EP.33 In this episode, I’m joined by Urmi Hossain, a self-published author, speaker, podcast host, and finance professional based in Canada, for a candid and reflective conversation on navigating identity as women of color.

Together, we explore our cultural, racial, and ethnic backgrounds, the messages we received growing up, and how our identities have evolved over time. We also reflect on unlearning harmful messages tied to beauty standards and colorism, how language shapes identity, and what it means to move through different environments while holding all parts of who we are.

An honest and empowering dialogue on identity, growth, and showing up authentically.

Follow the podcast on social media @honestconversationspod for updates on new episodes!

Guest information:

Urmi Hossain is a self-published author, speaker, podcast host, and finance professional based in Canada. She holds the CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) and CAIA (Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst) designations and works in the financial services industry, while using her platform to advocate for women’s empowerment, identity, and self-leadership.

Her first book, Discovering Your Identity: A Rebirth from Interracial Struggle, reflects her journey as a third-culture woman navigating questions of belonging, culture, and self-worth. Through her writing, Urmi encourages honest conversations around identity, representation, and choosing yourself in a world that often asks women to shrink or conform.

Urmi is the host of Stories Beyond Borders, a podcast that amplifies diverse voices and stories on identity, migration, language, and what “home” truly means. Her work centers on helping individuals—especially women—embrace their lived experiences as strengths rather than limitations.

Passionate about leadership development and community building, Urmi serves as the Co-Chair of Women in Leadership’s Montreal Chapter. She is also a dedicated public speaker and has been an active Toastmasters member since 2019, having served as both Vice President of Education and Club President.

Outside of her professional and advocacy work, Urmi enjoys reading thrillers and mystery novels, practicing boxing, running, and staying active through HIIT workouts.

Connect with Urmi Hossain

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/urmihossain/

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@urmihossain

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urmamio/

• Women in Leadership (Montreal): https://www.womeninleadership.ca/montreal

Stories Beyond Borders Podcast

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storiesbeyondborderspodcast/

• Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stories-beyond-borders/id1831413373

Urmi’s Book

• Discovering Your Identity: A Rebirth From Interracial Struggle – Available on Amazon
  

EP.32 In this episode, I’m joined by certified personal trainer, author, and wellness educator Taryn Brown for a powerful conversation about personal change and transformation. Together, we explore what it really means to grow and why changing our mindset, habits, and environment can be both empowering and challenging.

We discuss common misconceptions about personal transformation, how our upbringing shapes the way we view growth, and why letting go of old patterns is often harder than we expect.

Whether you’re at the beginning of a new chapter or feeling stuck between who you were and who you want to become, this episode offers thoughtful reflection and practical perspective on making meaningful, lasting change.

Follow the podcast on social media @honestconversationspod for updates on new episodes!

Guest Information:

Taryn Brown is a certified personal trainer, author, and wellness educator. She wrote The Art of Least Resistance after her own journey through major life transitions and a 75-pound weight loss. Through her work and her cycle-synced fitness method Glo.Sync, Taryn helps women reconnect with their bodies, soften perfectionism, and build strength without self-abandonment.

Social media:

instagram = @t.ar.yn @glosync.wellness

tiktok = @thetarynimani

email: [email protected]

website: glosync.app , glowsyncmethod.gumroad.com

EP.31 In this reflective episode, LaVell D. Monger and I sit down for an honest, open conversation as we look back on the year together. We discuss who we were at the start of the year, the challenges that shaped us, moments when we felt most vulnerable, and the people who influenced our growth.

We also talk about what we’re most proud of and the intentions we’re carrying into the next year. This episode creates space to slow down, reflect, and honor your own journey as the year comes to a close.

Guest Information:

LaVell D. Monger, MEd, a proud native of St. Louis, embodies the spirit of a millennial Black entrepreneur, podcaster, creator, business leadership consultant, and transformational leader. Throughout his remarkable journey, LaVell has garnered recognition for his dynamic leadership skills, exceptional business acumen, and unwavering commitment to positively impacting others.

His areas of focus include business and leadership development, diversity and inclusion, minority success, restorative justice, depression, and self or organizational branding.

https://ldmonger.com/

@vellsworldpodcast

EP.30 In this episode, I sit down with Phillip Hargrove, an Engineering Professor, to explore the transformative practice of mindfulness. We discuss what mindfulness really is and explore common myths.

We share our introductions to mindfulness and explore why it can feel challenging for many people to practice. We talk about real-life experiences where mindfulness helped us navigate difficult moments, and how it has impacted our mental health, relationships, and professional life.

We also explore how mindfulness intersects with identity and can support communities facing systemic stressors.

Whether you’re new to mindfulness or looking to go deeper, this conversation offers insights, inspiration, and practical takeaways to help you live a more present and grounded life!

Guest Information:

Phillip Hargrove is a faculty member in the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department at UCF, and he previously worked at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for nearly a decade before becoming a full-time educator. Phillip spends his time playing recreational sports in Orlando's LGBTQ+ Sports League, singing karaoke with friends, taking care of his plants at home, and learning to play the acoustic guitar. He uses mindfulness to help him lead with love and curiosity, and he is passionate about sharing these skills with others. You can find him on Instagram @thelearningprofessor and on Linked-In .

EP. 29 In this episode, I sit down with Stefan Lessie to explore the topic of code switching. We discuss what code switching is, share personal experiences, and examine the social and cultural factors that influence it. Our conversation highlights the complexities of identity, cultural adaptation, and the balance between authenticity and societal expectations. We also explore the benefits and challenges of code switching, emphasizing the importance of staying connected to one’s roots while navigating different environments.

Follow on Instagram: @honestconversationspod

Guest Information:

Stefan Lessie is a personal trainer and the host of the I Choose Health Podcast that seeks to have honest conversations on health. The podcast primarily focuses on resilience as a central component of health.
Connect with I Choose Health: 

YouTube Podcast Channel: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@IChooseHealt...⁠  

Fitness Channel: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@mindcorefitn...⁠  

Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/ichooseheal...⁠ 

TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ichoosehealth...⁠ 

Listen on Spotify: ⁠https://anchor.fm/mindcore-fitness

EP. 28- In this episode, my guest Thomas and I share our experiences and perspectives as Black mental health professionals. We discuss how racial identity has shaped our career paths, the challenges and lessons of graduate school, and the ways race can influence the therapeutic relationship.

We also explore navigating stigma, bias, and systemic barriers in the mental health field, the unique pressures Black therapists face, and how we balance serving our communities with maintaining personal well-being. Together, we reflect on what meaningful change in the field could look like and offer advice for aspiring Black mental health professionals.

Thomas Lee

Bio: Thomas Lee is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who focuses on working with BIPOC and LGBTQI+ communities. He is the author of The Miseducation of Thomas Lee Crockett: A Mental Health Love Letter to the Black Community.

IG: @sorelymiseducatedthomas

EP. 27 – In this episode, I’m joined by Gerard “Joffre” St. Hilaire to unpack what it really means to live authentically. We dig into the hidden fears and barriers that keep so many of us stuck and share personal stories about facing those challenges. If you’ve ever wondered what’s holding you back from the life you’re meant to live, this conversation is for you.

Guest Information:

Gerard "Joffre" St. Hilaire

@joffisfree

EP. 26 In this episode, I’m joined by my guest, Fredelyn Alcide, as we dive into our experiences growing up as Caribbean-American women. We explore how being bicultural has shaped our sense of identity, the joys and challenges that come with navigating two cultures, and how this has influenced our academic and career paths. We also discuss the impact of being bicultural on our friendships and dating experiences, shedding light on the complexities of balancing cultural expectations with personal growth.

Connect with Fredelyn Alcide:

Instagram:

@freddietheme

@thefocalspot

Bio: Fredelyn Alcide

Growing up in the 90s, New York City’s radio stations such as WBLS and HOT 97 were always playing the sounds of Hip-Hop and R&B inside Freddie’s home. Although she loved listening to the music on the radio, celebrity interviews is what caught grabbed her attention. Whenever her role model Angie Martinez would conduct interviews, she would keenly listen to how Angie would have a rapport with the guests and pay attention to how she conducts interviews. She always envisioned herself one day having the opportunity to meet and interview celebrities. The love for radio was born.

The opportunity to fulfill her love for radio occurred while she was in college. While interning for Orlando’s radio stations 102 Jamz and Star 94.5  and for BET, she learned about the different facets of radio, tv, and entertainment. This experience deepened her love for the entertainment field and decided then that she was in the right field. During her internship experience, she was introduced to a new facet to communications where one is able produce their own shows through their computer. Eager to fulfill her passion, she created “The Focal Spot Podcast”.

"The Focal Spot Podcast" focuses on celebrity interviews, mental and women's health. Featured celebrity interviews include Tiffany Haddish, DJ Envy from Power 105.1 "The Breakfast Club", Judge Lauren Lake from "Paternity Court" and more.  Her mental health segment “Depression in Hollywood” interview with NYC HOT 97’s DJ Enuff was featured featured in the online hip-hop website “The Source Magazine” . She even had an opportunity to meet her role model Angie Martinez at a book signing and informed her how much of an inspiration she was to her.

EP. 25 In this episode, I’m joined by Maurice Jones for a heartfelt discussion about the complexities of the holiday season. We explore why so many people struggle during this time, even though it’s often advertised as the happiest season of all. Additionally, we open up about our own experiences with grief and loss during the holidays, shedding light on the unique challenges it can bring. Lastly, we share practical ways to cope and offer suggestions on how to support others who may be struggling during the holiday season.

Please note: This episode includes discussions about trauma, which may be sensitive for some listeners.

Guest: Maurice Jones

Maurice Jones has been a professional Speaker and Life Coach for over 10 years, along with serving in ministry, working with clients from all walks of life and helping them navigate through life’s challenges. With a background in psychology and communications, he provides a holistic approach to his services. He is the father of three beautiful children, the Founder of All God Everything LLC, Program Manager of Home Buyer Academy, and President of I.M.A.G.E. Inc.