This week on Let’s Try This Again, I’m your host B Simone, and I’m sitting down with the hilarious and inspiring Zainab Johnson. From the moment I discovered Zainab on social media—rocking her Bantu knots and dropping truth with every punchline—I knew I had to have her on the show. In this episode, we get real about what it’s like to break into stand-up comedy as a Black Muslim woman, and how sometimes the things that make us different become our superpowers.

Zainab shares how she never saw women like herself represented in comedy or on TV growing up, and how that inspired her to become the role model she wished she’d had. She opens up about her first time on stage, admitting she thought she’d fail but wanted a good story to tell—only to discover she was actually good at it and wanted to try again the very next day. We laugh about the wild journey from open mics at hookah lounges to touring internationally, and how being brutally honest about her life—like growing up with 13 siblings, wearing a hijab as a kid, or experimenting with hair—became the heart of her comedy.

We also dive into real talk about identity, faith, and self-acceptance. Zainab breaks down why she chose to stop wearing her hijab as a teen and how, as an entertainer, she’s on a mission to affirm the existence of young girls who don’t see themselves reflected in the media. We even get into the stigma around Black women and hair, and how owning your truth—whether it’s a flip-over weave or a shaved head—can be freeing and funny.

If you’ve ever felt like the odd one out, doubted your path, or needed a reminder that your story matters, this episode is for you. Tune in for laughter, wisdom, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep showing up and trying again, no matter what the world expects. And don’t forget—every Monday we drop audio on all platforms, and every Tuesday you can catch the visuals on YouTube. Let’s grow together!

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This week on Let’s Try This Again, I sit down with the multi-talented artist Vic Mensa for a raw, honest conversation about sobriety, healing, and what it really takes to break free from addiction. I open up about my own struggles with food addiction, and Vic shares his journey of letting go of drugs, alcohol, and even unhealthy relationships with sex-getting real about the moments that forced him to change. He talks about the night he crashed his car while drunk and high on Molly, and how that wake-up call, paired with a powerful moment of prayer in a mosque, led him to finally listen when God gave him a second chance.

Vic breaks down what sobriety means for him-not just abstaining from substances, but rebuilding his relationship with himself and others, including getting involved with Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous. We talk about the concept of anhedonia, or the inability to feel pleasure, and how years of chasing extreme highs left him feeling numb to everyday joys. Vic gets vulnerable about the guilt, shame, and darkness that came with addiction, and how, over time, he’s learned to find happiness in the simple moments again.

If you’ve ever battled addiction in any form-or just felt stuck in a cycle you couldn’t break-this episode is for you. Vic’s story is motivating and relatable, reminding us that real change takes honesty, support, and a willingness to listen when life (or God) gives you a sign. Tune in for a conversation full of laughter, wisdom, and hope for anyone ready to try again.

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This week on Let’s Try This Again, I’m your host B Simone, and I’m joined by my girl Jamie, a life coach who specializes in manifesting and mindset. In this episode, we get real about what it actually takes to manifest the life you want-whether it’s more money, a thriving business, or deep, meaningful relationships. Jamie breaks down her step-by-step approach to manifestation, starting with the most important question: What do you truly want? So many of us don’t even let ourselves dream big, or we get stuck chasing “ego desires” instead of the heart-led dreams God placed inside us.

We talk about how your beliefs shape your reality, and Jamie shares how she helps clients identify the limiting beliefs that hold them back-like wanting a faithful partner but secretly believing “all men cheat.” I even walk through some of my own examples, like getting up at 6 a.m. to work out because I’m stepping into the version of myself who runs a multi-million-dollar business. Jamie’s process is practical and motivating: write down your desires, get honest about your limiting beliefs, and then ask yourself if those beliefs are really the ultimate truth. Spoiler: they never are!

This episode is packed with actionable steps-like choosing new beliefs, taking inspired action, and tuning in to what God is telling you in prayer and meditation. Jamie also opens up about her own spiritual journey, finding balance between faith and the universe, and how she learned to trust her intuition again. If you’re ready to break through old patterns and become the person who actually lives the life you dream about, this conversation is for you. Grab a notebook-Jamie even gives us a free mini coaching session right on the podcast! Let’s keep growing, manifesting, and trying again-together.

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Hey y'all! Welcome back to another episode of Let's Try This Again, I'm your host B Simone! This week, get ready for a powerful conversation with my special guest Teresa Celeste. We might even call ourselves the LTT Ayers now, thanks to Tyler! We talk about Teresa's first big break, God's timing, seeking Jesus, fasting and honestly, God really took the wheel on this one. There were so many other things I wanted to chat about, but the direction we went? Absolutely perfect.

I'm so excited for you to hear this episode. Trust me, you don't want to miss it. And hey, if you're just listening, make sure to head over to YouTube for the weekly vlog.

Thanks for tuning in every Monday for the audio and Tuesday for the visuals. Let me know in the comments if you want to hear more from our amazing guest. Don't forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts (five stars would be amazing!), and go comment, rate, subscribe, and share the love.

Remember, keep pushing forward, keep smiling, and never, ever give up. Stay resilient, and I love you guys so very much! See you next week!

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This week on Let’s Try This Again, I’m your host B Simone, and I’m joined by the incredible Dr. Anita Phillips-a trauma therapist, powerhouse speaker, and someone whose wisdom has truly changed my life. In this episode, we get real about what healing actually looks like, and why forgiveness and healing are two separate journeys.

I open up about my own process: how forgiving someone doesn’t mean the pain is instantly gone-just like if someone broke your leg, you could forgive them right away, but your leg would still need time to heal. That analogy hit home for me, and I know so many of you can relate. Sometimes the hurt lingers long after we’ve chosen to let go, and that’s okay.

We also talk about the “mother wound,” and I share how hearing Dr. Anita break down this topic on the Woman Evolve stage brought me to tears. She explains how mother wounds aren’t just a women’s issue-they can affect anyone, and they run deep, sometimes all the way back to the original story of Adam and Eve. The way Dr. Anita brings grace to both mothers and daughters, and encourages us to have compassion for each other, is something I wish everyone could hear.

This episode gets personal. I even take a moment to publicly apologize to anyone who met me during a darker, more broken season of my life-because when you’re hurting, you show up differently, no matter how hard you try to hide it. Dr. Anita helps us understand how trauma impacts our nervous system, why we might feel stuck in “fight or flight,” and how true healing isn’t about quick hacks, but about daily practices: rest, nourishing your body, using your voice, and spending time in safe spaces.

We talk about practical steps-like setting boundaries, speaking up for yourself, and even how being in nature or near the ocean can help reset your nervous system. Dr. Anita shares that healing is a process, not a destination, and encourages us to look back a year from now to see how far we’ve come.

If you’ve ever struggled with anxiety, felt stuck in old pain, or wondered why healing takes so long, this episode is for you. It’s honest, motivating, and packed with wisdom you can use right now. Let’s keep growing, healing, and trying again-together.

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This episode of Let’s Try This Again is one of the most powerful and personal conversations I’ve ever had. I’m your host, B Simone, and today I sit down with Kevin—a filmmaker, producer, author, and mental health advocate whose story is nothing short of a miracle. We talk about the realities of suicide, mental health struggles, and the unseen emotional weight so many of us carry.

Kevin opens up about living with bipolar disorder and the darkness he’s battled—including the day he attempted to end his life by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge at just 19 years old. Out of thousands who have jumped, only 40 have survived in 90 years, and Kevin is one of them1. Hearing him talk about the days leading up to that moment, the pain he felt, and the silence he kept out of fear of judgment is both heartbreaking and incredibly relatable. He shares how he used to hide his hallucinations, panic attacks, and deep sadness, and how the loss of his beloved teacher to suicide made him believe it was an option for himself.

But this episode isn’t just about the darkness—it’s about hope, resilience, and practical steps to keep going. Kevin shares the two life-saving actions he takes whenever suicidal thoughts return: looking in the mirror and reminding himself, “My thoughts don’t have to become my actions,” and reaching out to say, “I need help now.” These simple but powerful tools have helped him stay alive for 24 years since his attempt, and he urges anyone struggling to use them too.

We also talk about the importance of community, love, and small daily actions that can shift your mindset—like meditation, exercise, and even something as simple as a hug. Kevin’s story is a testament to the fact that you are not alone, your life has purpose, and there is always a way forward, even when it feels impossible.

If you or someone you love is struggling, please listen with care and know that there are people and resources ready to support you. This episode is raw, real, and full of hope. I promise, you’ll walk away feeling seen, motivated, and reminded that your story isn’t over. Let’s keep trying—together.

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Welcome to the Let’s Try This Again podcast! I’m your host, B Simone, and in this episode, we’re diving deep into a topic that has transformed my life: Isolation vs. Solitude. This conversation is personal, relatable, and packed with lessons that will help you reflect on your own journey and move forward with intention.

I share my experience of navigating a season of solitude—a time of intentional alone moments that have brought incredible growth, clarity, and healing. Solitude has taught me to embrace independence, prioritize self-love, and let go of relationships that no longer serve me. I compare this to isolation, which can feel dark, fear-based, and stagnant—a space I’ve seen others struggle in.

For example, I talk about a loved one who’s in isolation—avoiding community out of fear—and contrast that with my solitude journey where I’ve learned to meal prep, set boundaries, and find joy in being alone without depending on external validation. Solitude has been a gift for me, allowing me to shed old habits and step into a healthier mindset.

This episode is about asking yourself: What season am I in? Whether you’re feeling lonely or disconnected, understanding the difference between isolation and solitude can be the key to unlocking growth and purpose. I break down the definitions and share practical ways to shift your mindset from victim to victor—because solitude can be empowering when embraced intentionally.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with vulnerability, laughter, and actionable steps to help you heal and evolve. Let’s keep growing together—because every season has its purpose!

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Welcome to the Let's Try This Again podcast! I’m your host, B Simone, and this episode is extra special because we’re celebrating one year of podcasting—yes, a whole year of pressing forward, overcoming fear, and giving God our yes.

In this episode, I share my personal journey of starting this podcast, how it came to life during a season of uncertainty, and the lessons I learned about faith, fear, and obedience. Let me take you back to the moment when God dropped the name "Let's Try This Again" into my spirit during a fast—a time when I felt broken and unsure about my next steps. Eight months after walking away from my previous podcast, I was hesitant to start over. But through faith and seeking God’s guidance, I found clarity and courage to take that leap.

I talk about how fear can paralyze us—whether it’s starting a new business, giving love another chance after heartbreak, or pursuing a dream that feels impossible. For me, fear was real when I thought about podcasting again after a traumatic experience with my first show. But choosing faith over fear opened doors not just for me but for others who needed encouragement and healing through these conversations.

This episode is all about starting, even when you don’t have all the answers. Whether it’s picking up an old hobby like singing or painting, or taking steps toward your purpose—even if it’s as small as writing down ideas—your yes isn’t just for you. It’s connected to someone else’s breakthrough, healing, or freedom.

I hope this episode motivates you to seek the next step in your journey. Remember Jeremiah 29:13: Seek Him with all your heart, and you will find Him. Don’t let fear hold you back from what God has called you to do. Your yes can create waves of healing and freedom for others—it’s bigger than you think!

Tune in now for a raw and relatable conversation filled with laughter, vulnerability, and practical steps to move forward in faith. Let’s celebrate together and keep trying—because the movement begins with us!

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Hey, y’all! It’s your girl B. Simone, and welcome back to Let’s Try This Again! This week, I’m joined by someone super special—my brother and partner-in-crime from my 2024 stand-up tour, Brandon Lewis, aka B-Lew. Together, we dive into a raw and heartfelt conversation about growth, grief, and the power of isolation in self-discovery.

We talk about everything—from how we first met back in 2016 (remember that cringy boxing video shoot?) to how we reconnected almost a decade later during one of the most transformative years of our lives. Brandon opens up about losing his mom to cancer and how that heartbreaking experience became the catalyst for his season of transition. He shares how he’s learning to set boundaries, embrace self-worth, and step into a new version of himself.

On the flip side, I reflect on my own season of acceleration. From shedding dead weight to staying laser-focused on my vision, I’ve learned that not everyone is meant to come along for the ride—and that’s okay. We also talk about how isolation isn’t just lonely—it’s necessary. It breaks you down so you can rebuild stronger than ever.

This episode is full of laughs (Brandon roasting me is a given), tears (he’s been practicing his “10k views” cry!), and real-life gems about faith, resilience, and trusting God’s timing. Whether you’re navigating loss, chasing your dreams, or just trying to figure out your next step, this episode will leave you feeling seen and inspired.

Tune in now for some laughs, some lessons, and a whole lotta love. And don’t forget—every Monday we drop audio on all platforms, and every Tuesday you can catch the visuals on YouTube. Let’s grow together!

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Hey you guys! It's your girl, B Simone, and welcome back to another episode of the 'Let's Try This Again' podcast! In this episode, we are diving deep into something that hit me like never before — an identity crisis. Now, if you know me, you know I have always loved my skin, my curls, my melanin, my juicy lips, and everything about being a Black woman. But recently, I found myself questioning it all, and I need to share this journey with you.

It all started with a conversation my girl Connor had on a date with an NBA player who casually said he prefers dating white women because they are "easier to deal with." But he added, "You don't count because you look mixed." That one comment shook me to my core. I mean, here I was, 34 years old, never once doubting my beauty or my worth, and suddenly I found myself asking, "Am I too Black? Too urban? Are my braids too ghetto?" Y'all, these thoughts had NEVER been in my head before.

As I got ready for my trip to Brazil, I kept overthinking everything. Am I dressing too Black? Will I fit in with these high-value men? It felt crazy because I had always walked confidently in who I am. But at that party in Brazil, surrounded by women who looked racially ambiguous, I felt it. The doubt. The questioning. And let me be clear — I wasn’t disrespected. Everyone was kind and welcoming. But perception is powerful, and for the first time, I felt like I didn’t fit in.

But here's what I learned: My authenticity is my power. I didn't let those thoughts change who I was. I showed up as my loud, vibrant, braided, Black self because that is enough. And I want every Black woman listening to know that YOU are enough. Whether you're rocking colorful nails, big hair, or rocking your natural curls — show up as YOU.

This episode is a reminder to confront those sneaky little thoughts that make us question our worth. Catch them before they turn into actions. Cast them down because we are more than society's beauty standards.

Tune in now to Episode 51 of 'Let's Try This Again' and let's talk about it. New audio episodes drop every Monday, and visuals are up every Tuesday on YouTube. Follow us on Instagram @letstrythisagain for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. Love y'all so much!

Stay authentic. Stay resilient. And remember, you are enough.

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