#307: This week, I’m diving into something that’s been coming up a lot in my own life and in so many conversations with friends, too: the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways we sabotage ourselves.

In this solo episode, I’m unpacking why other people don’t actually have the power to block what’s meant for us—but we do. Whether it’s through self-doubt, procrastination, perfectionism, or just plain fear, we can end up being our own biggest haters.

I’m also sharing some mindset shifts and honest reflections that have helped me recognize when I’m getting in my own way and how I try to move through it with a little more self-compassion and a lot more clarity.

If you’ve ever had that gut feeling that you might be the one holding yourself back… this one’s for you.

Resources:

• Follow me on IG @lesalfred
• Follow She’s So Lucky on IG @shessoluckypod
• Follow me on TikTok @balancedles
• Follow She’s So Lucky on TikTok @shessoluckypod
• Download my free Best Case Scenario Journal Template

Sponsors:

• Dove & CVS: Let’s keep beauty Positively Real. Learn more at https://creatoriq.cc/3JgXMvE
• Cotton: Cotton is the fabric of our lives. Learn more at thefabricofourlives.com.

Keep in touch:

• Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfred
• Follow on TikTok @shessoluckypod @lesalfred
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

Produced by Dear Media.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#306: I usually keep things pretty neutral on She’s So Lucky, but today I’m spicing things up with some unpopular opinions you didn’t see coming. From the phrases we need to retire, to my unfiltered thoughts about your favorite TV shows, to the truth about influencer culture, join me for a casual kiki dishing some hot takes.

Resources:

• Download my free Best Case Scenario Journal Template
• Episode 297: How to Be More Lucky: Lucky Girl Commandments You Need to Thrive
• Episode 304: Stop Being So Realistic:Why You’re Playing Yourself While Playing It Safe

Sponsors:

• Shopify: Start your online business with Shopify. Sign up for your $1 per month trial at shopify.com/balancedblackgirl.
• Cotton: Cotton is the fabric of our lives. Learn more at thefabricofourlives.com.
• Function: Take charge of your health through lab testing with Function. Visit functionhealth.com/lucky or use the gift code LUCKY for a $100 credit towards your membership.
• Rula Online Therapy: Visit rula.com/lucky to get connected with a licensed therapist.
• IM8: IM8’s Daily Ultimate Essentials is my go-to drink for getting all the nutrients I need. Go to IM8health.com/lucky and use code LUCKY for a free welcome kit, five free travel packs, and 10% off your order. 

Keep in touch:

• Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfred
• Follow on TikTok: @shessoluckypod @lesalfred
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

Produced by Dear Media.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#305: What does it mean to actually understand the media you’re consuming—and how does that shape how you move through the world? That’s what we’re getting into this week with our guest, Nikki Ogunnaike.

Nikki is the Editor in Chief of Marie Claire **US, host of Marie Claire’s Nice Talk podcast and one of the sharpest voices in fashion and culture today. Having held roles at Harper’s Bazaar, GQ, Elle, Glamour, InStyle, and Vanity Fair, she’s spent years helping people not just look good, but think critically about what they’re watching, reading, and sharing.

In this episode, we talk about the power of media literacy, why your personal style isn’t a destination, and why having your own lens is one of the most underrated success tools out there.

We Also Talk About…

• How we can be more conscious consumers of fashion and media
• How running has helped her find clarity and community
• Her “Ins and Outs” for 2025—and whether they still hold up
• Why media literacy is a non-negotiable in today’s world
• The difference between copying style vs. cultivating it

Resources:

• Listen to Nice Talk on Apple Podcasts
• Listen to Nice Talk on Spotify
• Follow Marie Claire on Instagram @marieclairemagazine
• Follow Marie Claire on TikTok @marieclairemagazine
• Download my free Best Case Scenario Journal Template

Sponsors:

• Quince: Elevate your fall wardrobe essentials with Quince. Go to quince.com/balancedles for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns.
• Simply Pop is a new fruit-forward bevy of prebiotic sodas with 6 grams of fiber. Go to cokeurl.com/simplyPOP to find out where you can try it.
• Function: Take charge of your health through lab testing with Function. Visit functionhealth.com/lucky or use the gift code LUCKY for a $100 credit towards your membership.
• Nutrafol: Get stronger, healthier hair with Nutrafol. For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering $10 OFF your first month’s subscription and free shipping when you go to nutrafol.com and enter promo code BALANCEDLES.

Keep in touch:

• Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfred
• Follow on TikTok @shessoluckypod @lesalfred
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

Produced by Dear Media.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#304: Is being too “realistic” keeping you stuck?

This week, I’m getting into something I’ve been thinking about a lot lately: how being “realistic” can actually be a form of shrinking our goals to fit our fears.

In this solo episode, I’m unpacking why being realistic isn’t always the wise or grounded choice it’s made out to be, and how it might actually be self-sabotage disguised as protection.

I also share some mindset shifts that have helped me stop shrinking my goals to fit what feels “safe” and start thinking bigger again—without spiraling into overwhelm. If you’ve ever talked yourself out of something because it felt too bold or too unlikely, this one’s for you.

In this episode, I talk about:

• Why “being realistic” can be a trap
• How I’ve noticed it showing up in my own life
• What to do when your big goals start to feel too far away
• The difference between grounded strategy and self-sabotage
• Encouragement to stop playing small and dream a little bigger

Resources:

• Follow me on IG @lesalfred
• Follow She’s So Lucky on IG @shessoluckypod
• Follow me on TikTok @balancedles
• Follow She’s So Lucky on TikTok @shessoluckypod
• Download my free Best Case Scenario Journal Template

Sponsors:

• Nutrafol: Get stronger, healthier hair with Nutrafol. For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering $10 OFF your first month’s subscription and free shipping when you go to nutrafol.com and enter promo code BALANCEDLES.
• Shopify: Start your online business with Shopify. Sign up for your $1 per month trial at shopify.com/balancedblackgirl.
• Simply Pop is a new fruit-forward bevy of prebiotic sodas with 6 grams of fiber. Go to cokeurl.com/simplyPOP to find out where you can try it.
• The Real Real: The Real Real is attainable luxury that upgrades your personal style. Get $25 off your first purchase when you go to therealreal.com/lucky.
• Function: Take charge of your health through lab testing with Function. Visit functionhealth.com/lucky or use the gift code LUCKY for a $100 credit towards your membership.

Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

Produced by Dear Media.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Real Stuff is a weekly podcast series hosted by Lucie Fink who has spent the past decade getting curious and creating engaging and educational content for an audience of millions. On this show, you won’t hear your favorite guests talk about things they typically share — rather, Lucie pulls them deep into some of the world’s most taboo topics, asking intensely personal questions about sex, money, and mental health, all in an effort to help you feel less alone as you navigate through the world.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#303: What does it look like to build a brand that’s rooted in real community, not just clout? That’s what we’re diving into this week with our guest, Nana Agyemang.

Nana is a journalist-turned-entrepreneur, founder of EveryStylishGirl, and the visionary behind Sip N’ Slay — one of today’s most sought-after events for women creatives and media professionals.

In this episode, we talk about building an authentic personal brand, why community is the best business strategy, and how Nana is planning for early retirement (at 40!) without sacrificing joy or alignment.

We Also Talk About…

• What it really means to build an authentic brand
• How Sip N’ Slay became the go-to event for women creatives
• Mapping out your long game (and making peace with slow growth)
• Shifting your money mindset for legacy and wealth
• Knowing when to say no, and why boundaries are essential

Resources:

• Get your tickets for Sip N’ Slay NYC on August 23
• Follow Nana on Instagram @itsreallynana
• Follow Nana on TikTok @itsreallynanaaa
• Follow EveryStylishGirl on Instagram @everystylishgirl
• Download my free Best Case Scenario Journal Template

Sponsors:

• Function: Take charge of your health through lab testing with Function. Visit functionhealth.com/lucky or use the gift code LUCKY for a $100 credit towards your membership.
• Cotton: Cotton is the fabric of our lives. Learn more at thefabricofourlives.com.
• Opill: Opill is birth control in your control, and you can use code BALANCEDLES for 25% off your first month at www.opill.com
• Simply Pop is a new fruit-forward bevy of prebiotic sodas with 6 grams of fiber. Go to cokeurl.com/simplyPOP to find out where you can try it.
• NOCD: NOCD offers accessible OCD treatment. Go to nocd.com and schedule a free 15-minute call with their team.

Keep in touch:

• Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfred
• Follow on TikTok: @shessoluckypod @lesalfred
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#302: What if the version of success you’re chasing isn’t actually yours?

In this episode I’m joined by Amina AlTai, executive coach and author of The Ambition Trap, to unpack what it really means to pursue ambition with purpose. We talk about the difference between chasing success to prove something vs. purposeful ambition that aligns with your values and desires.

Amina shares the personal and professional wake-up calls that led her to redefine ambition, why we can feel our lowest during moments that are supposed to be our highest, and why fulfillment isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. If you’ve ever hit a milestone and felt underwhelmed, this conversation is for you.

We Also Talk About…

• Why performative ambition can leave you feeling empty
• The signs you’re stuck in the Ambition Trap
• How to reconnect with purposeful, aligned goals
• The difference between identity-driven success and ego-driven success
• Permission to want more, but for the right reasons

Resources:

• Check out Amina’s book The Ambition Trap
• Follow Amina on Instagram @aminaaltai
• Follow Amina on TikTok @aminaaltai
• Follow Amina on LinkedIn
• Check out Amina’s podcast, Amina Change Your Life
• Download my free Best Case Scenario Journal Template

Sponsors:

• Simply Pop is a new fruit-forward bevy of prebiotic sodas with 6 grams of fiber. Go to cokeurl.com/simplyPOP to find out where you can try it.
• Cotton: Cotton is the fabric of our lives. Learn more at thefabricofourlives.com.
• Nutrafol: Get $10 off your first month’s subscription and free shipping by visiting nutrafol.com and using the promo code BALANCEDLES.

Keep in touch:

• Follow on IG: @balancedles @lesalfred
• Follow on TikTok @balancedles
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

Produced by Dear Media.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#301: What does it mean to be the woman of your own dreams?

That’s what we’re exploring in this week’s episode with guest, Kendra Austin. Kendra is a model, author, content creator, podcast host, and serial entrepreneur who lives authentically and unapologetically.

In this episode, we talk about what it’s really like to lean into your evolution and show up as your full self from glow-ups, to spiritual awakenings.

We Also Talk About…

• Releasing the grip of perfectionism
• Exploring various creative pursuits
• What it means to build self-trust
• The importance of play and curiosity as a means of self-discovery

Resources:

• Follow Kendra on Instagram @kendramorous
• Follow Kendra on TikTok @kendramorous
• Listen to Kendra’s podcast, Eldest Daughter
• Check out Kendra’s website https://www.kendraaustin.com/
• Download my free Best Case Scenario Journal Template

Sponsors:

• Function Health: Take charge of your health through lab testing with Function. Visit functionhealth.com/lucky or use the gift code LUCKY100 for a $100 credit towards your membership. 
• Nutrafol: Get $10 off your first month’s subscription and free shipping by visiting nutrafol.com and using the promo code BALANCEDLES.
• The RealReal: The RealReal is attainable luxury that upgrades your personal style. Get $25 off your first purchase when you go to therealreal.com/lucky
• Rula Online Therapy: Visit rula.com/lucky to get connected with a licensed therapist.

Keep in touch:

• Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfred
• Follow on TikTok @shessoluckypod @lesalfred
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

Produced by Dear Media.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#300: Clovers, we’ve officially reached our 300th episode of She’s So Lucky! To celebrate this milestone, we’re taking a walk down memory lane to reflect on some of our top episodes.

Relive some of our greatest hits, and the gems you may have missed for creating your own luck.

Episodes Shared:

• 250: 35 Lessons I’ve Learned by My 35th Birthday
• 281: Gabrielle Union on Embracing Vulnerability and No Longer Going 50/50 
• 236: How to Become Your Highest Self: Essential Glow-Up Tips with Jaz Turner
• 205: The Ultimate Glow-Up: How to Level Up in Your Career and Life with Jodie Taylor
• 206: The SECRET to Choosing Yourself with Eni Popoola
• 225: Kennedy Ryan — How Reading Fiction Helps Us Raise Our Standards and Practice Self-Care
• 265: How to Create Your Dream Life with Tricia Lee
• 223: Rachel Rodgers on How to Establish Million-Dollar Habits

Resources:

• Download my free Best Case Scenario Journal Template
• Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfred
• Follow on TikTok: @shessoluckypod @lesalfred

Sponsors:

• Quince: Quince is the go-to for elevated basics at affordable prices. Visit quince.com/balancedles for free shipping and 365-day returns.
• Shopify: Sign up for your $1 per month trial at shopify.com/balancedblackgirl.
• Mint Mobile: Ditch overpriced wireless and get 3 months of premium wireless service from Mint Mobile for $15 a month. Shop data plans at mintmobile.com/lucky.
• Simply Pop is a new fruit-forward bevy of prebiotic sodas with 6 grams of fiber. Go to cokeurl.com/simplyPOP to find out where you can try it.
• Function Health: Take charge of your health through lab testing with Function. Visit functionhealth.com/lucky or use the gift code LUCKY for a $100 credit towards your membership. 

Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

Produced by Dear Media.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#299: If you had to choose between running up a hill, or taking a flat road, which would you take? If you automatically said flat road, this episode may inspire you to take the hill.

Today we’re sitting down with Marcel Dinkins — Peloton instructor, podcast host and athlete — for a fun, lively conversation on what it means to move through discomfort. Marcel inspires us to take the best route, which isn’t always the easy one, and find new ways to reinvent ourselves along the way. If you’re looking for motivation to push through plateaus, this episode is it.

We Also Talk About…

• Marcel’s career transition from the Army, to fashion, to fitness
• How Marcel moved to New York on a whim in her early 20s and hasn’t looked back
• Marcel’s funny run-in with Tracee Ellis Ross during the Girlfriends era
• How Marcel manifested her dream job as a Peloton instructor
• What it means to take the hill, and why you should

Resources:

• Follow Marcel on Instagram @officialmarcelfit
• Listen to Marcel’s podcast, Take the Hill
• Subscribe to Marcel’s YouTube Channel
• Download my free Best Case Scenario Journal Template

Sponsors:

• Function Health: Function is offering 160+ Lab Tests for $365 to anyone who signs up between July 7th and July 11th. To learn more and get started, visit functionhealth.com/LUCKY 
• Opill: Opill is birth control in your control, and you can use code BALANCEDLES for 25% off your first month at opill.com
• The RealReal: The RealReal is attainable luxury that upgrades your personal style. Get $25 off your first purchase when you go to therealreal.com/lucky

Keep in touch:

• Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfred
• Follow on TikTok @shessoluckypod @lesalfred
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

Produced by Dear Media.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.