Lirae Journey

Dr. Sherella Cupid and Sierra McKissick discussed the conclusion of Season 4 of the Lirae Journey podcast, which focused on transitions in the lives of Black women. Sherella reflected on her postdoctoral journey, emphasizing the importance of journaling and self-reflection. She highlighted her research on sister circles and Black women in helping professions during the pandemic. Sherella encouraged listeners to engage with her blog entry on Medium for further insights into the episode's themes.

ABOUT THE SHOW

Lirae Journey discusses the journeys of Black women in various contexts and serves as a digital sister circle, a support group for and by Black women. We create community and conversation with the aim of thriving. Subscribe to the Lirae Journey mailing list at liraejourney.com. Follow the show on social media platforms at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@liraejourney.

DISCLAIMER

The topics, views, and opinions expressed on McKissick Health & Wellness are those of the speaker, host, and guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of McKissick Health & Wellness or any affiliated brand (One Choice Magazine, the Experience, or SFM Design Studio). Any tips, suggestions, or content provided by our speaker, host, and guest are their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. Read more https://bit.ly/MHPodNet

In this episode, Daliah Ouedraogo, a first-year doctoral student at Howard University, discussed her collegiate experiences and research interests, with a focus on transitions and community building. She also explored the importance of mentors, socialization, and personal growth during graduate studies, as well as the significance of research in addressing challenges faced by Black women. The conversation concluded with a discussion on the intersection of technology, beauty, and self-esteem, as well as the need for social support within Black women's communities and sister circles.ABOUT THE SHOWLirae Journey discusses the journeys of Black women in various contexts and serves as a digital sister circle, a support group for and by Black women. We create community and conversation with the aim of thriving. Subscribe to the Lirae Journey mailing list at liraejourney.com. Follow the show on social media platforms at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@liraejourney.DISCLAIMER The topics, views, and opinions expressed on McKissick Health & Wellness are those of the speaker, host, and guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of McKissick Health & Wellness or any affiliated brand (One Choice Magazine, the Experience, or SFM Design Studio). Any tips, suggestions, or content provided by our speaker, host, and guest are their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. Read more https://bit.ly/MHPodNet

In this episode, Sherella and Ngeri discussed their personal journeys and transitions, with Ngeri sharing her experiences of job loss, career uncertainty, and the importance of community and sisterhood. They also explored the challenges of navigating life and society, the impact of societal expectations, and the importance of creating safe and joyful spaces for black children. The conversation concluded with Ngeri sharing her passion for writing children's books, her plans for the future, and the importance of love and community in their lives.ABOUT SISTA NGERI...Ngeri Nnachi, J.D., M.P.P.L., is an Activist, Children’s Book Author, and Educator. As a sought-after Consultant, Ngeri’s subject matter expertise is vast and includes early childhood education-related topics to educational advocacy-oriented issues in relation to Black children. As a founding Board Member of Planting People Growing Justice Leadership Institute, founded in St. Paul, Minnesota, Ngeri proudly engages communities across the world in utilizing what’s in their own hands to make a difference in the world. Feel free to explore more about what Ngeri has to offer on her website: www.ngerinnachi.com. OUR SISTA SHELF BOOK CLUBSummer Book Club Announcement! We’re reading Caught Out There by Dr. Tahira Chloe Mahdi & Christopher A. Brown—a platonic comedy (yes, a "platon-com" 💐🎭). Our sistadoc, Tahira, will be in conversation with us on June 25, 2025. Sis, sign up for the newsletter for the invite: podcast.mckissickhealth.comABOUT THE SHOWLirae Journey discusses the journeys of Black women in various contexts and serves as a digital sister circle, a support group for and by Black women. We create community and conversation with the aim of thriving. Subscribe to the Lirae Journey mailing list at https://podcast.mckissickhealth.com. Follow the show on social media platforms at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@liraejourney.DISCLAIMER The topics, views, and opinions expressed on McKissick Health & Wellness are those of the speaker, host, and guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of McKissick Health & Wellness or any affiliated brand (One Choice Magazine, the Experience, or SFM Design Studio). Any tips, suggestions, or content provided by our speaker, host, and guest are their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. Read more https://bit.ly/MHPodNet

In this episode, Dr. Arcia Stokes discussed her current season of life, titled "Trust," and shared the origin story of her organization, Black Girl Walking Club (BGWC). She emphasizes the importance of finding rest and community, particularly for black women. The conversation also touched on the importance of rest, self-care, and leadership, as well as the success of the BGWC wellness retreat and the meaning of love as being real and eternal.ABOUT SISTA ARCIA...Dr. Arcia M. Stokes, Ed.D. is a multifaceted educational leader, arts advocate, and entrepreneur dedicated to empowering communities through education, creativity, and wellness.With over nine years of experience in education, Dr. Stokes has held roles including her current position as Director of Arts & Athletics, music and arts educational consultant, and professional development facilitator. She earned her Doctor of Education (Ed.D) in Educational Leadership from Rider University, where she was honored to address her fellow graduates at the commencement ceremony.Dr. Stokes is the founder of Stokes Notes, LLC, a company that provides music instruction and educational consulting services. She also established the Black Girl Walking Club (BGWC), a wellness initiative designed to foster community and promote health among Black women.An active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Dr. Stokes combines her passions for education, the arts, and community service to inspire and uplift others. Beyond her professional endeavors, she is a singer and podcaster, using her platforms to advocate for creativity and empowerment.OUR SISTA SHELF BOOK CLUBSummer Book Club Announcement! We’re reading Caught Out There by Dr. Tahira Chloe Mahdi & Christopher A. Brown—a platonic comedy (yes, a "platon-com" 💐🎭). Our sistadoc, Tahira, will be in conversation with us on June 25, 2025. Sis, sign up for the newsletter for the invite: podcast.mckissickhealth.comABOUT THE SHOWLirae Journey discusses the journeys of Black women in various contexts and serves as a digital sister circle, a support group for and by Black women. We create community and conversation with the aim of thriving. Subscribe to the Lirae Journey mailing list at https://podcast.mckissickhealth.com. Follow the show on social media platforms at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@liraejourney.DISCLAIMER The topics, views, and opinions expressed on McKissick Health & Wellness are those of the speaker, host, and guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of McKissick Health & Wellness or any affiliated brand (One Choice Magazine, the Experience, or SFM Design Studio). Any tips, suggestions, or content provided by our speaker, host, and guest are their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. Read more https://bit.ly/MHPodNet

In this episodes, Chantel Bomar shared her experiences with transitions in life, emphasizing the importance of wellness, self-love, and living life to the fullest. She discussed her career journey in healthcare technology and the significance of sisterhood and intergenerational conversations about health and wellness. The conversation also touched on the concept of death and its role in personal growth, as well as the importance of self-reflection, manifestation, and embracing change.

ABOUT SISTA CHANTEL...

Chantel Bomar is a dynamic public speaker, business owner and wellness advocate who brings a strong health tech background and is making waves from the Baltimore Metropolitan area. She's also the brilliant co-anchor of the No Class Podcast, where she dives deep into current events and crucial topics like repurposing trauma, colorism, religion, and love relationships, specifically tailored for Black millennials and people of color.

When she's not driving important conversations, Chantel dedicates her time to well-being through yoga and dancing. She's also equally passionate about community and volunteers with middle school students to help improve their literacy and reading comprehension skills. 

Chantel's strong foundation includes a Master’s of Science in Healthcare Administration and a Bachelor’s of Science in Kinesiology with a minor in Human Development, both earned at the University of Maryland.

You can follow her work here:  https://linktr.ee/cbomar

OUR SISTA SHELF BOOK CLUB

Summer Book Club Announcement! We’re reading Caught Out There by Dr. Tahira Chloe Mahdi  & Christopher A. Brown—a platonic comedy (yes, a "platon-com" 💐🎭) Our sistadoc Tahira will be in convo with us on June 25, 2025. Sis, sign up for the newsletter for the invite: podcast.mckissickhealth.com

ABOUT THE SHOW

Lirae Journey discusses the journeys of Black women in various contexts and serves as a digital sister circle, a support group for and by Black women. We create community and conversation with the aim of thriving. Subscribe to the Lirae Journey mailing list at https://podcast.mckissickhealth.com. Follow the show on social media platforms at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@liraejourney.

DISCLAIMER The topics, views, and opinions expressed on McKissick Health & Wellness are those of the speaker, host, and guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of McKissick Health & Wellness or any affiliated brand (One Choice Magazine, the Experience, or SFM Design Studio). Any tips, suggestions, or content provided by our speaker, host, and guest are their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. Read more https://bit.ly/MHPodNet

Dr. Sherella Cupid and RaGina McKissick discussed the importance of consistency, patience, and self-love in health and wellness journeys, with a focus on supporting women during pregnancy and postpartum recovery. They also explored the societal pressures and expectations surrounding body image and the need for self-acceptance and grace during these life transitions. RaGina shared her personal journey into the fitness industry, her experiences as a social worker and fitness coach, and her philosophy of balance and self-care in her life.

ABOUT SISTA RAGINA...

RaGina is a certified fitness professional, certified personal fitness trainer and group instructor, and certified prenatal and postpartum fitness trainer. She is also a social worker with over a decade of experience advocating for youth in the Philadelphia area. RaGina is passionate about helping women and men cultivate strength and live in their bodies. For more information about RaGina, follow @kissgfitness on social media and visit kissgfitness.com.

OUR SISTA SHELF BOOK CLUB

Summer Book Club Announcement! We’re reading Caught Out There by Dr. Tahira Chloe Mahdi  & Christopher A. Brown—a platonic comedy (yes, a "platon-com" 💐🎭) Our sistadoc Tahira will be in convo with us on June 25, 2025. Sis, sign up for the newsletter for the invite: podcast.mckissickhealth.com

ABOUT THE SHOW

Lirae Journey discusses the journeys of Black women in various contexts and serves as a digital sister circle, a support group for and by Black women. We create community and conversation with the aim of thriving. Subscribe to the Lirae Journey mailing list at https://podcast.mckissickhealth.com. Follow the show on social media platforms at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@liraejourney.

DISCLAIMER The topics, views, and opinions expressed on McKissick Health & Wellness are those of the speaker, host, and guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of McKissick Health & Wellness or any affiliated brand (One Choice Magazine, the Experience, or SFM Design Studio). Any tips, suggestions, or content provided by our speaker, host, and guest are their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. Read more https://bit.ly/MHPodNet

Dr. Sherella Cupid and Dr. Veronica Gillispie-Bell discussed the prevalence of uterine fibroids among Black women, the importance of community and knowledge sharing among Black women, and the need for early wellness investments and prioritizing one's health. Dr. Gillispie-Bell shared her journey into Obstetrics and Gynecology and her passion for educating and empowering women. Notably, she described her current season as planting seeds, focusing on spreading knowledge and awareness about fibroids and other health issues affecting women.

About Sista Veronica...

Dr. Veronica Gillispie-Bell is a Board-Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist and an Associate  Professor at Ochsner Health in New Orleans, Louisiana. She is the Senior Site Lead and Section  Head of Women’s Services at Ochsner Kenner, the Director of Quality for Women’s Services across the Ochsner Health System, and the Medical Director of the Minimally Invasive Center for the Treatment of Uterine Fibroids. Dr. Gillispie-Bell earned her medical degree from  Meharry Medical College, completed her residency at Ochsner Health, and holds a Master of  Applied Science in Patient Safety and Healthcare Quality from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg  School of Public Health. She also holds certification in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell  University. Known nationally for her expertise in managing heavy menstrual bleeding due to fibroids, she is highly skilled in advanced laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgeries in addition to her obstetric care. 

As Medical Director of the Louisiana Perinatal Quality Collaborative and the Pregnancy Associated Mortality Review for the Louisiana Department of Health, Dr. Gillispie-Bell is a leading force in addressing maternal health disparities. Her work focuses on improving birth outcomes and eliminating racial disparities in maternal health across Louisiana. Dr. Gillispie Bell has testified before Congress, led congressional briefings, and was an invited speaker at The  White House Maternal Health Day of Action, advocating for policy improvements in maternal care and outcomes. 

Dr. Gillispie-Bell has held numerous leadership roles on both local and national platforms, and her clinical and advocacy work has earned her wide recognition. She has been quoted in national outlets such as USA Today and The New York Times. She has appeared as a featured speaker at the Essence Festival, on Good Morning America, CNBC, Scripps News, and the 1619 Project  Docuseries.

Learn more about her clinical work at Ashner.org and her involvement in the Xavier Ochner College of Medicine.

OUR SISTA SHELF BOOK CLUB

Summer Book Club Announcement! We’re reading Caught Out There by Dr. Tahira Chloe Mahdi  & Christopher A. Brown—a platonic comedy (yes, a "platon-com" 💐🎭) Our sistadoc Tahira will be in convo with us on June 25, 2025. Sis, sign up for the newsletter for the invite: podcast.mckissickhealth.com

ABOUT THE SHOW

Lirae Journey discusses the journeys of Black women in various contexts and serves as a digital sister circle, a support group for and by Black women. We create community and conversation with the aim of thriving. Subscribe to the Lirae Journey mailing list at https://podcast.mckissickhealth.com. Follow the show on social media platforms at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @liraejourney.

DISCLAIMER The topics, views, and opinions expressed on McKissick Health & Wellness are those of the speaker, host, and guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of McKissick Health & Wellness or any affiliated brand (One Choice Magazine, the Experience, or SFM Design Studio). Any tips, suggestions, or content provided by our speaker, host, and guest are their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. Read more https://bit.ly/MHPodNet

In this episode, Sherella and Dr. Inte’a Deshields discussed the theme of the season, focusing on conversations about life transitions, including motherhood, career shifts, and lifestyle changes. Dr. DeShields shared her perspective on the theme, describing her current season of life as one of 'becoming'. Dr. DeShields defines love as a reflection of one's ability to identify and experience it, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and vulnerability in understanding the concept of love.

About Sista Inte'a...

Dr. Inte'a, DeShields has authored and co-authored several national and international publications and also working as a reviewer for reputed professional journals. Dr. Inte'a, DeShields is having an active association with different societies and academies around the world. Dr. Inte'a, DeShields made his mark in the scientific community with the contributions and widely recognition from honourable subject experts around the world. Dr. Inte'a, DeShields has received several awards for the contributions to the scientific community. Dr. Inte'a, DeShields major research interest involves English Language speaking, Communication skills.

ABOUT THE SHOW

Discusses the journeys of Black women in various contexts and serves as a digital sister circle, a support group for and by Black women. We create community and conversation with the aim of thriving. Subscribe to the Lirae Journey mailing list at https://podcast.mckissickhealth.com. Follow the show on social media platforms at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @liraejourney.

DISCLAIMER

The topics, views, and opinions expressed on McKissick Health & Wellness are those of the speaker, host, and guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of McKissick Health & Wellness or any affiliated brand (One Choice Magazine, the Experience, or SFM Design Studio). Any tips, suggestions, or content provided by our speaker, host, and guest are their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. Read more https://bit.ly/MHPodNet

In this episode, Shelly Washington, a financial literacy teacher and poet, shared her experiences and insights on motherhood, transitions, and balancing work and family life. She emphasized the importance of contextualizing medical information, finding a safe space and trusted individuals in a corporate environment, and being intentional about representation in media. The conversation ended with Shelly expressing her anticipation for her future work and her plans to reintroduce poetry into her life.

About Sista Shelly...

Shelly Washington is a true renaissance woman - able to excel simultaneously in art, education, and business. She is a Marketing executive who has held leadership roles at several Fortune 500 companies. Many know her as Shelly Says So, the spoken word poet who inspires audiences nationwide with healthy helpings of feminine sass, curvy confidence, and thought-provoking audacity. As an entrepreneur, Shelly founded The Advisory Store, a consultancy specializing in financial literacy, marketing strategy, and resume writing. The Huffington Post, Black Enterprise, and other media have featured her. Shelly has a Bachelor's in Advertising from Temple University and an MBA from the University of Maryland.

Follow Shelly on social media @ShellySaysSo.

ABOUT THE SHOW

Discusses the journeys of Black women in various contexts and serves as a digital sister circle, a support group for and by Black women. We create community and conversation with the aim of thriving. Subscribe to the Lirae Journey mailing list at https://podcast.mckissickhealth.com. Follow the show on social media platforms at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @liraejourney.

DISCLAIMER

The topics, views, and opinions expressed on McKissick Health & Wellness are those of the speaker, host, and guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of McKissick Health & Wellness or any affiliated brand (One Choice Magazine, the Experience, or SFM Design Studio). Any tips, suggestions, or content provided by our speaker, host, and guest are their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. Read more https://bit.ly/MHPodNet

Dr. Sherella Cupid and Dr. Tamisha J. Ponder discussed the theme of transitions in their lives. Dr. Ponder shared her experiences adjusting to various transitions, including motherhood, career changes, grief, and relationships. They also discussed the importance of community support, self-love, and self-care during times of change, with Dr. Ponder emphasizing the interconnectedness of all aspects of life. The conversation also touched on Dr. Ponder's journey, including her experiences as a millennial mom, entrepreneur, caregiver, and yogi, and how these experiences have shaped her approach to life and wellness.

Learn more about wellness at Sankofa Yoga Center online at sankofayogacenter.com/ and follow Dr. Ponder @dr.tjackponder/.

About Tamisha...

Dr. Tamisha J. Ponder is an entrepreneur, wife, mother, community-cultivator, and yogi. Holding degrees in history, sociology, journalism, and women's and gender studies, Tamisha completed her Ph.D. in Language, Literacy, and Culture researching Black women's activism and its emotional and psychological implications. Working for over a decade in higher education as an equity director and professor, Tamisha trained educators around the country to be culturally responsive and worked to promote social justice, equity, and inclusion in educational systems, non-profit sectors, and in the yoga community. When she is not on the mat, you can find Tamisha and her husband, Marcus, traveling the world, running competitive races, watching low-budget movies, and loving up on their baby girl, Camille, and their rescue dog, Chance.

ABOUT THE SHOW

Discusses the journeys of Black women in various contexts and serves as a digital sister circle, a support group for and by Black women. We create community and conversation with the aim of thriving. Subscribe to the Lirae Journey mailing list at https://podcast.mckissickhealth.com. Follow the show on social media platforms at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @liraejourney.

DISCLAIMER

The topics, views, and opinions expressed on McKissick Health & Wellness are those of the speaker, host, and guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of McKissick Health & Wellness or any affiliated brand (One Choice Magazine, the Experience, or SFM Design Studio). Any tips, suggestions, or content provided by our speaker, host, and guest are their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. Read more https://bit.ly/MHPodNet