In this episode of The Bess Talks, I’m opening up about self-love, identity, and the journey of learning to see beauty in myself even when the world consistently tries to make me question it. Self Love & Sabitiyu is rooted in my experience of growing up between cultures and learning how to embrace every part of who I am—my body, my skin, my background, and my softness. Since February also marked a century of Black history commemorations, I wanted this episode to hold space for legacy too—for my people, the culture, and the history that lives in us. I talk about my grandmother Sabitiyu, what her name means to me, and how self-love is not always loud. Sometimes it looks like remembering, reclaiming, and returning to yourself. This conversation is tender, personal, and honest—and it’s really about choosing yourself over and over again.

A choice you can make everyday <3

Welcome back to The Bess Talks.

This episode was supposed to come out a long time ago.

I recorded it in December. It didn’t work.

I re-recorded it January 16th. I lost the edited file.

I had to buy new equipment. It was delayed.

We lost water during the freeze.

And in the middle of all of it… my grandma passed away. I miss her so much.

So if you’re listening to this right now, just know — this episode fought to exist.

And that feels fitting.

Because change is strange. Growth is uncomfortable. And becoming someone new rarely happens without resistance.

“Episode One is all about presence — showing up for yourself, claiming your space, and letting the moment be the moment.

I share the small real-life shifts that helped me reconnect with myself.

If you’ve been feeling disconnected, this is your reminder to slow down and be here.”