#274: What would your life look like if you prioritized wellness and set boundaries like a CEO?

Today, I’m sitting down with Michele Y. Smith, CEO of the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), to explore the various ways pop culture influences our creativity and how we can all invite wellness into the workplace.

We Also Talk About…

• Michele’s career journey to become a CEO
• Signs it’s time to pivot into your next big role
• Tips for setting boundaries and protecting your time
• Ways to set yourself up for a productive week
• How to be a wellness-minded leader and set the tone for your team
• Unique ways to give back to your community

Resources:

• Vote for Balanced Black Girl in the “Outstanding Podcast – Lifestyle / Self-Help” category of the 2025 NAACP Image Awards!
• Check out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!
• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Follow the Museum of Pop Culture on Instagram
• Visit mopop.org to plan your museum visit
• Read Forbes: “The Power Of Pop Culture’ Spotlights MoPOP’s New Leadership Focus”
• Read: “The Let Them Theory: A Life-Changing Tool That Millions of People Can't Stop Talking About” by Mel Robbins

Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:

• Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:
• Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merch
• Watch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirl
• Follow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcast
• Follow on TikTok @balancedles
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Sponsors:

• Neuro Gum | If you’re ready for better sleep, head to www.neurogum.com and use code BALANCEDLES for 15% off your first order of Sleep & Recharge melt away mints.
• YNAB | YNAB is a life-changing budgeting app that helps you do what you want with the money you have. Visit www.ynab.com/balanced to get an exclusive three-month trial.
• Calm | Stress less, sleep more, and live better with Calm. Visit calm.com/balanced for 40% off a Calm Premium Subscription.
• Lume | Get Lume’s Starter Pack to try all their bestsellers. Use code BALANCEDLES for 15% off your first purchase.
• SKIMS | If you’re looking for the perfect gift for your Valentine or for yourself - SKIMS just launched their best Valentines shop ever! You can shop now at SKIMS.com and SKIMS New York Flagship on Fifth Ave. 
• Seed | Support your gut health with DS-01® Daily Synbiotic by Seed. Go to Seed.com/BalancedLes and use code ‘balancedles’ to get 25% off your first month.

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

#273: Taking risks in your career can lead to big rewards, but what does it really cost you in the end?

In this episode, I chat with Tori Bell, founder and CEO of Inclusion Unpacked, about the real challenges of pivoting, taking risks, and betting on yourself.

From her time at Meta to starting her own business, Tori gets real about burnout, inequalities, and the stigmas founders face. She also shares how she’s championed DEI and inclusion every step of the way—both in her career and her life as a founder.

We Also Talk About…

• Tori’s transition from employee to founder
• The truth behind the venture-backed process and why it’s not always as smooth as it seems.
• Career steps to take when becoming a founder
• How to navigate self-doubt and stay confident as a new founder.
• Tips for balancing a 9-5 job while building your own business.
• How to push past self-doubt and shame while creating something meaningful from scratch.

Resources:

• Vote for Balanced Black Girl in the “Outstanding Podcast – Lifestyle / Self-Help”  category of the 2025 NAACP Image Awards!
• Check out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!
• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Follow Tori on Instagram
• Follow Inclusion Unpacked on Instagram

Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:

• Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:
• Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merch
• Watch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirl
• Follow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcast
• Follow on TikTok @balancedles
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Sponsors:

• YNAB | YNAB is a life-changing budgeting app that helps you do what you want with the money you have. Visit www.ynab.com/balanced to get an exclusive three-month trial.
• LMNT | LMNT is a zero sugar electrolyte drink mix with a research-backed ratio of electrolytes. To try it out go to drinkLMNT.com/balancedles to receive a free LMNT sample pack with any purchase.
• Oura Ring | Oura Ring is the revolutionary smart ring that delivers personalized health data, insights, and daily guidance. Visit www.ouraring.com
• Quince | Get quiet luxury without luxury prices at Quince. Go to quince.com/balancedles for free shipping and 365-day return on your next order.
• Lifestraw | Lifestraw Home Studio is the only water filter dispenser that removes over 30 contaminants, including microplastics, bacteria, and PFAs. Use code BALANCEDLES for 15% off.

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

#272: Ready to find the love you deserve?

In this episode, I sit down with dating coach and relationship guru, Anwar White, for a conversation on how to date with intention.

We’ll talk about how to set boundaries, manage finances in relationships, and navigate tough conversations.

Plus, we’ll answer relationship questions straight from the DMs, offering tips and insights to help you build a healthy, lasting connection.

We Also Talk About…

• How to put yourself out there in 2025
• How to expand your options in the dating pool
• How to set boundaries on the first date
• The difference between wants and needs in a relationship
• How masculine and feminine energy play a role in relationships
• Tips for healing from past relationships

Resources:

• Vote for Balanced Black Girl in the “Outstanding Podcast – Lifestyle / Self-Help”  category of the 2025 NAACP Image Awards!
• Check out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!
• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Follow Anwar on Instagram
• Follow Anwar on TikTok
• Book a free consultation with Anwar here

Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:

• Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:
• Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merch
• Watch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirl
• Follow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcast
• Follow on TikTok @balancedles
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Sponsors:

• LifeStraw | Use code BALANCEDLES for 15% off the purchase of any LifeStraw home product at LifeStraw.com. Offer cannot be combined with any other offer. 
• Nurtafol | 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.
• YNAB | YNAB is a life-changing budgeting app that helps you do what you want with the money you have. Visit www.ynab.com/balanced to get an exclusive three-month trial.
• Oura Ring | Oura Ring is the revolutionary smart ring that delivers personalized health data, insights, and daily guidance. Visit www.ouraring.com

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.

#271: Ready to hit the refresh button? This episode is all about stepping into alignment with the person you’re becoming.

I’ll share how to define your purpose, refine your look, and build habits that bring your goals to life.

Let’s create your next chapter together!

I also talk about…

• How to build anchor habits and work towards your goals daily, weekly, and monthly goals
• How to budget for your personal or professional brand
• How to stay organized and implement weekly planning tips for success
• Why the persona experiment is key to tapping into your rebrand

Resources:

• Check out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!
• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Episode 248: What I Learned During My 30-Day Style Challenge
• Read “Year of Yes: How to Dance It Out, Stand In the Sun and Be Your Own Person” by Shonda Rhimes
• Read “The Alter Ego Effect: Defeat the Enemy, Unlock Your Heroic Self, and Start Kicking Ass” by Todd Herman

Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:

• Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:
• Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merch
• Watch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirl
• Follow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcast
• Follow on TikTok @balancedles
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Sponsors:

• Timeline Nutrition | Feel your best and turn back the clock with Mitopure. Go to www.timeline.com/BALANCED33 for 33% off your order of Mitopure while supplies last.
• YNAB | YNAB is a life-changing budgeting app that helps you do what you want with the money you have. Visit www.ynab.com/balanced to get an exclusive three-month trial.
• LMNT | LMNT is a zero sugar electrolyte drink mix with a research-backed ratio of electrolytes. To try it out go to drinkLMNT.com/balancedles to receive a free LMNT sample pack with any purchase.
• Quip | The Quip 360 oscillating tooth brush literally revolves around you. Go to www.quip.com/balanced for 20% off and a FREE travel case and countertop stand.
• Calm | Stress less, sleep more, and live better with Calm. Visit calm.com/balanced for 40% off a Calm Premium Subscription.

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

#270: Let’s plan for 2025 together!

In this workshop-style episode, we’ll reflect on 2024—celebrating wins, learning from lessons, and crafting a clear game plan for the year ahead.

I’ll share practical ways to set goals, build habits, and prioritize rest to stay balanced and motivated.

Your best year yet starts with a solid strategy—let’s make it happen!

Resources:

• Check out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!
• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Episode 253: How to Win at Life: The Mindset Shift You Need to Level Up
• Episode 278: The Journaling Practice That Changed My Life: Best Case Scenario Journaling

Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:

• Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:
• Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merch
• Watch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirl
• Follow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcast
• Follow on TikTok @balancedles
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Sponsors:

• Shopify | Get your online business up and running with Shopify. Sign up for $1 per month trial period at shopify.com/balancedblackgirl.
• YNAB | YNAB is a life-changing budgeting app that helps you do what you want with the money you have. Visit www.ynab.com/balanced to get an exclusive three-month trial.
• Oura Ring | Oura Ring | Oura Ring is the revolutionary smart ring that delivers personalized health data, insights, and daily guidance. Visit www.ouraring.com
• Vionic Shoes | Use code BBG for 15% off your first order at vionicshoes.com.

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.

#269: Call me Oprah, because today I’m sharing my favorite things (but I won’t be giving everyone a car — sorry).

In this special episode, I’m sharing my must-have products and hacks across wellness, beauty, books, and more to keep you glowing inside and out!

Whether you’re treating yourself, searching for the perfect gift, or just looking for ways to elevate your routines, this episode is packed with inspiration to close out the year in style.

Resources:

• Check out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!
• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Check out my ShopMy for all the products mentioned in this episode!
• Episode 225: How Reading Fiction Helps Us Raise Our Standards with Kennedy Ryan 

Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:

• Watch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirl
• Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merch
• Follow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcast
• Follow on TikTok @balancedles
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Sponsors:

• Biosil | Get 30% off your first order of Biosil. Visit biosil.beauty and enter the code BALANCEDLES.
• 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.
• Equip | Equip is a virtual, evidence-based eating disorder treatment program that helps you heal your relationship with food and your body from the comfort of your own home. To learn more about Equip treatment visit equip.health/balancedblackgirl.com
• Calm | Stress less, sleep more, and live better with Calm. Visit calm.com/BALANCED for 40% off a Calm Premium Subscription.
• Vionic Shoes | Use code BBG for 15% off your first order at vionicshoes.com.

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.

#268: A lot can happen in a year!

In this episode, I’m reflecting on my first year of entrepreneurship, sharing the journey of transitioning from a full-time corporate job to going all-in on content creation. From the freedom of setting my own schedule to the pressure of being the product, I open up about both the highs and struggles of entrepreneurship I’ve experienced in 2024.

Tune in to hear how I’ve navigated challenges, found growth, and discovered new ideas for even better content in 2025!

Catch up on my journey of entrepreneurship:

• Episode 220: How I Became A Full-Time Podcaster
• Episode 223: Mental Health Check-In: Challenges of Entrepreneurship (Part 1)

Resources:

• Check out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!
• Episode 263: Success, and Upgrading Your Life with Jodie Taylor (Live Show)

Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:

• Watch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirl
• Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merch
• Follow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcast
• Follow on TikTok @balancedles
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Sponsors:

• Vionic shoes | sponsor pending from DM
• LMNT | LMNT is a zero sugar electrolyte drink mix with a research-backed ratio of electrolytes. To try it out go to drinkLMNT.com/balancedles to receive a free LMNT sample pack with any purchase.
• Quince | Get quiet luxury without luxury prices at Quince. Go to quince.com/balancedles for free shipping and 365-day return on your next order.
• Shopify | Get your online business up and running with Shopify. Sign up for $1 per month trial period at shopify.com/balancedblackgirl.

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.

#267: Are you ready to build the brand of your dreams but not sure where to begin?

In this episode, I chat with Denise Vasi, model and founder of MAED Beauty, about the highs and challenges of launching a business, embracing pivots, and chasing big dreams.

From identifying overlooked gaps in the beauty industry to balancing entrepreneurship with self-care, Denise offers inspiring advice on going after what you want—fearlessly and unapologetically.

We Also Talk About…

• Denise’s career journey from modeling and acting to beauty brand founder
• How to find market gaps and build a business
• How to practice self-care as a business owner
• Why clean beauty products matter
• Ways to connect people with your brand
• How to build the habit of finishing what you start
• Returning to yourself after seasons of preparation and hustle

Resources:

• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Check out maedbeauty.com for clean beauty products
• Follow Denise on Instagram
• Follow Maed Beauty on Instagram

Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:

• Watch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirl
• Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merch
• Follow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcast
• Follow on TikTok @balancedles
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Sponsors:

• Vionic Shoes | The Vionic Vitals collection has the best essential styles for everyday wear to get you ready for the season. Use code BALANCEDLES at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. One-time use only.
• Equip Health | Equip is a virtual evidence-based eating disorder treatment program that helps you heal your relationship with food and your body from the comfort of your own home. To learn more about Equip treatment visit equip.health/balancedblackgirl.com
• Ritual | Ritual Synbiotic+ has the prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics you need for better gut health. Get 25% OFF your first month at ritual.com/BALANCED
• Masterclass | MasterClass is the only streaming platform where you can learn and grow with over 200+ of the world's best. Go to masterclass.com/BALANCED for the current offer.

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.

#266: Is it just me, or do you also feel unmotivated in the winter?

In this solo episode, I’m sharing how to create habits that make it easier to navigate the seasonal shift and embrace the slower pace of winter.

From adjusting your routines for more rest and nourishment to finding joy in new hobbies and staying connected, this episode will help you stay motivated, care for your mental and physical health, and finish the year feeling strong.

I also talk about…

• Meal prepping habits and recipes to fuel you during the colder days ahead.
• How to maintain meaningful relationships with friends and family during the holidays.
• Simple ways to stay consistent with your fitness routine and boost your mood.
• Wellness products to elevate your self-care game.
• How journaling, meditation, and boundary-setting can help protect your peace.

Resources:

• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Shop this episode’s product recommendations on ShopMy

Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:

• Watch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirl
• Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merch
• Follow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcast
• Follow on TikTok @balancedles
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Sponsors:

• LMNT | LMNT is a zero sugar electrolyte drink mix to keep you hydrated. Go to drinkLMNT.com/balancedles to receive a free LMNT sample pack with any purchase.
• Equip | Equip is a virtual, evidence-based eating disorder treatment program that helps you heal your relationship with food and your body from the comfort of your own home. To learn more about Equip treatment visit equip.health/balancedblackgirl.com
• Vionic | The Vionic Vitals collection has the best essential styles for everyday wear to get you ready for the season. Use code BALANCEDLES at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. One-time use only.
• Smartwater | Smartwater alkaline will keep you hydrated throughout your active life– whether you’re running miles or running meetings. To try it out visit drinksmartwater.com.

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.

#265: Ready to break free from limitations and design life on your terms?

In this episode, I sit down with Tricia Lee—real estate broker, former beautypreneur and star of Netflix’s Owning Manhattan. We have an honest conversation about entrepreneurship, turning setbacks into motivation, and carving your own path in your career and beyond.

Whether you're considering a career change or craving more independence, Tricia’s advice will inspire you to take charge and make it happen.

We Also Talk About…

• Tricia’s journey from corporate life to creating carving her own path in real estate
• Entrepreneurship and building a flexible schedule
• Turning limitations into opportunities
• How to stay motivated when support is lacking
• Mental toughness and staying true to your goals

Resources:

• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Follow Tricia on Instagram @lovetricialee
• For exclusive listings, visit tricialee.com.

Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:

• Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merch
• Watch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirl
• Follow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcast
• Follow on TikTok @balancedles
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Sponsors:

• Shopify | Get your online business up and running with Shopify. Sign up for $1 per month trial period at shopify.com/balancedblackgirl.
• Biosil | Get 30% off your first order of Biosil. Visit biosil.beauty and enter the code BALANCEDLES.
• 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.
• Vionic Shoes | The Vionic Vitals collection has the best essential styles for everyday wear to get you ready for the season. Use code BALANCEDLES at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. One-time use only.
• Deinde | Fight inflammaging with Deinde skincare. Go to deinde.com and use code BALANCEDLES at check out for 15% off your first purchase.
• Culture Pop | Try a healthier soda alternative. Visit drinkculturepop.com and use code BALANCEDLES for 20% off your first purchase.

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.