Have you ever felt the weight of silence, mistaking it for peace, only to discover it's a shroud for unrest? This week on the Melanin Unicorn Podcast, we unpack the powerful words of Amanda Gorman, whose poetry transcends mere verses to become a guiding light for black women everywhere. We delve into her message, dissecting the nuances between tranquility and the silence that conceals turmoil. As your host, Carrie, I'll walk you through a journey of self-discovery, where we break free from the shackles of being stuck and learn to run with unwavering determination towards our dreams.

Celebration is at the heart of every episode, and today, we raise our voices in honor of Amanda Gorman, whose achievements are not just milestones but beacons for us all. Through her, we are reminded that strength and resilience are the fabric of our being. It's not about fame; it's about recognizing and embracing the essence of being a Black Queen. So, whether you're seeking motivation, a space for contemplation, or simply a moment to feel connected, join us. Together, we affirm our worth, our potential, and our unyielding spirit. Tune in, and let's continue to uplift each other because being part of this community is, in itself, a cause for celebration.

Amanda Gorman

Ever felt like you're juggling a million things and the balls just keep getting thrown at you? Well, you're not alone. Welcome to the Melanin Unicorn Podcast, where this week, I, Kerry, become your guide through the storm of life's challenges. We tackle the critical theme of perseverance, peeling back the layers on what it truly means to 'Stay the Course'. Our conversation is a deep dive into the necessity of self-prioritization, the art of refilling your own cup, and the empowerment that comes from learning to say 'no'. It's not selfish to put yourself first; it's essential for powering through towards your aspirations unapologetically. 

Wrapping up this empowering session, we pause to extend a heartfelt thank you. Your unwavering support fuels this journey, and as we look ahead, get ready for our next episode's Black Woman moment—a segment dedicated to inspiring and affirming your unique strength and beauty. Keep the love, excellence, and individuality affirmations we shared close to your heart, and let them be the wind beneath your wings until we meet again. Don't forget to connect with us on social media and check the show notes for all the golden nuggets from today's episode. Stay strong, stay focused, and keep shining like the melanin unicorns you are!

This week's Melanin Unicorn Podcast is beaming with pride as we celebrate the achievements of the trailblazing Dr. Ayanna Howard. As the new Dean of the Ohio State University College of Engineering, her journey from the head of Georgia Tech's School of Interactive Computing to her current prestigious role is nothing short of inspiring. Dr. Howard's mantra, "Always Be Proud," sets the tone for a conversation that will leave you feeling emboldened to recognize and honor your own accomplishments. Her dedication to robotics and her pioneering spirit are not only pushing the boundaries in STEM but are also encouraging us all to be champions of our own stories.

Join me, Carrie, your host, for an engaging discussion that exemplifies the power of self-advocacy and the importance of celebrating every milestone, no matter its size. Dr. Howard shares her wisdom on how to keep the flame of your aspirations burning bright. Together, we explore the significance of acknowledging your progress, which is a crucial step toward achieving your dreams. Tune in to this heartfelt episode and be prepared to walk away empowered to cherish your victories and maintain that vital drive towards your goals. Let's honor our successes and let our collective lights shine bright.

Dean Ayanna Howard

Dive head
first into the realm of unlimited potential as we unveil the transformative power of manifesting and rewriting our personal stories. I'll guide you through the art of turning your innermost desires into your external reality, not through wishful thinking, but with practical steps that bridge the spiritual and the scientific. You'll learn how to reshape the narrative you tell yourself, releasing negative emotions that may hinder your progress, and harness the wisdom of icons like Madame CJ Walker, who boldly taught us to carve out our opportunities. Step beyond the mundane, and let's embark on a journey to align your life with your deepest yearnings, transforming your aspirations into tangible success.

Join me in a heart-to-heart conversation about the magic of affirmations and scripting, where I share personal anecdotes and effective strategies that have charted my path to self-improvement. From bedtime rituals to mirror pep talks, we'll explore how to subtly shift your mindset and attract the life you envision. We'll also take a page out of Michelle Obama's playbook, discussing the virtue of authenticity and the power of focused silence in reaching our goals. Together, we’ll arm ourselves with the knowledge and affirmation needed to support a life that not only resonates with your wishes but is also a reflection of your truest self. Embrace the change and let's start scripting your story of excellence today.

Disclaimer: I have never read this book but just mentioned it on the podcast.
The Secret

The Books Recommended For Me to Read:
The Power of Awareness
The Science of Greatness
Positive Imaging
The Power of The Subconscious Mind
You Can Heal Your Life
Heal Your Body
Your Word is Your Wand
The Game of Life and How to Play It
Ask and It Is Given
This Thing Called You
Wishes Fulfilled
Think and Grow Rich
The Science of Getting Rich

Oprah Winfrey's words resonated with me as I found myself at a crossroads, her wisdom a beacon in the haze of failure. This week on the Melanin Unicorn Podcast, we celebrate the iconic Oprah and bask in the renewed magic of 'The Color Purple,' applauding its well-deserved Oscar buzz. As your host, Kerry, I'm here to share with you how Oprah's perspective on failure can transform setbacks into stepping stones toward your greatness. I'll be your guide as we explore the beauty of resilience and how embracing failure is not the end of your journey, but the catalyst for your success story.

Set your sights on a path of triumph and self-love, as this episode is a testament to the strength and uniqueness within each Black woman. I lay bare my own experiences with setbacks, illustrating how they serve as a powerful prelude to victory. Remember, beloved listeners, you are loved, excellent, beautiful, well, safe, and most importantly, uniquely you. Carry this affirmation with you until our next full episode, and let it be the wind beneath your wings as you soar through new doors and broaden your horizons. Join me, and together let's continue the conversation that uplifts and inspires.

I once stood at a crossroads, comfort in one hand, fearless ambition in the other. This episode is a testament to that journey, an intimate exploration of choosing courage over the easy seduction of complacency, especially pertinent to my fellow Black women trailblazers. Delving into the core of what it means to harness true inner strength, I confront the barriers that often confine us to comfort zones, stifling our true potential. With the wisdom of icons like Alice Walker and Shirley Chisholm guiding us, we unpack the significance of stepping up and claiming our power. This isn't just a conversation; it's a rallying cry for all my Melanin Unicorns out there to armor up with courage, discard those well-worn excuses, and rise as the royalty you are destined to be.

Next Wednesday, we'll be igniting a heartfelt celebration of Black Womanhood, but for now, let me offer a glimpse into the future where our spirits and identities are not just recognized but revered. Here, I lay the foundation for understanding your worth and the sheer force of positive affirmations. Remember, you are a unique tapestry of qualities, a marvel of beauty and strength. This episode is designed to resonate deeply, stirring the heart and soul as we gear up for a continuation of this empowering narrative. Stay tuned as we weave together the threads of our collective journey, supporting and elevating each other along the way.

Ever find yourself dimming your light to fit into someone else's comfort zone? Our latest Melanin Unicorn episode shatters that notion with the electrifying wisdom of Queen Luvvie Ajayi Jones, who implores us all to never break ourselves down into bite-sized pieces for anyone's consumption. This week on the Melanin Unicorn Podcast, we celebrate our global community, spanning from Africa to New York, and revel in the unity that our shared experiences as black women bring to the forefront.

Join us as we honor Luvvie, a Nigerian sister and four-time New York Times best-selling author, in our 'Black Woman Moment'—a segment where powerful quotes spur us into action. Luvvie's Writing Academy beckons to those with tales yearning to be told, and her words remind us of our regal nature and the brilliance we possess. Through this episode, we channel the spirit of connectivity and the relentless pursuit of dreams, affirming that our collective voice is a beacon of inspiration. So, let's rise together, shine unapologetically, and let the world feel the full force of our incredible light.

Books by Luvvie Ajayi Jones:
- I'm Judging You: The Do-Better Manual
- Professional Troublemaker: The Fear-Fighting Manual
-  The Fear-Fighter Manual: Lessons From a Professional Trouble Maker
- Rising Troublemaker: A Fear Fighting Manual for Teens
- Little Troublemaker Makes a Mess (Childrens Book)

Luvvie Ajayi Jones Author Academy: Learn How To Write

When life threw a curveball at my holiday cheer with unexpected apartment renovations, I learned a valuable lesson in the power of perspective. This episode is a raw and authentic reflection on the importance of gratitude, even when things don't go according to plan. Listen as I recount the ups and downs, sharing how I turned it into an opportunity for personal growth. By adopting a mindset of resilience and rewriting my internal dialogue through journaling, I've discovered a path to a more positive self-concept. This candid conversation sheds light on the crucial role our thoughts and media consumption play in shaping our spirit and actions.

Embarking on the journey of podcasting was no easy feat, but by changing my thoughts and taking intentional action, the path to success became clearer. In this heart-to-heart, I share practical tips for steering your mindset toward progress, from journaling to voice recording, and the significance of a joyful media diet. As we reconvene with our vibrant 'melanin unicorn' community, I extend an invitation to share in the excitement and optimism for what lies ahead. It's a new year brimming with possibilities, and together, we'll celebrate our collective achievements and growth. Join me as we continue to create a space filled with love, safety, and affirmation, reminding each other of our inherent value every step of the way.

Who is your muse? Have you ever considered that it could be you? Get ready to explore this powerful thought in our latest episode where we shine the spotlight on every Black woman. We're turning up the dial on our regular Affirmation Wednesday, now rebranded as Black Woman Wednesday Moment, dedicating it entirely to celebrating, uplifting, and inspiring Black women. 

In our deep-dive discussion, we highlight a potent quote from the phenomenal Oroma Elewa, a Nigerian visual and performance artist. "I am my own muse, I am the subject I know best, the subject I want to better." Let these words resonate with you, as we unpack what it means to be the muse of your own life's canvas. Remember, your strength, beauty, and excellence are your powers. And as always, every moment of your life, you are deeply loved and cherished. Join us next week for another hefty dose of inspiration. Follow us on Instagram at the Melanin Unicorn Podcast. Remember, you are not just unique; you are a trailblazer.