In this Valentine’s Day special of The Monie Podcast, I sit down with a beautiful couple, Alana and Dennis Dunkley — a young, faith-driven pair whose intentional love and openly shared date nights first caught my attention on social media.

But this conversation goes far beyond picture-perfect moments.

We explore what it really takes to build a love that lasts.

In this episode, we discuss:

❤️ Their individual upbringings and how their backgrounds shaped the way they show up in marriage

❤️ What sectors they each work in and how career demands impact their relationship

❤️ How they met, how long they dated, and how long they’ve been married

❤️ The role of faith as the foundation of their union

❤️ The trials and tribulations they’ve faced — and how they fought for each other

❤️ Mental health in marriage, emotional safety, and vulnerability

❤️ Why date nights matter and how they keep the spark alive

❤️ Honest advice for young couples courting with the intention to marry

Alana, a mental health advocate, shares powerful insight into protecting your peace while building partnership. Dennis speaks candidly about leadership, love, and the importance of choosing your spouse daily — especially during difficult seasons.

We also lighten the mood with a fun “Who’s Most Likely To?” game that reveals their playful dynamic and reminds us that laughter is part of longevity.

This episode is about more than romance.

It’s about faith.

It’s about friendship.

It’s about fighting for forever.

If you’re single, dating, engaged, or married — this conversation will inspire you to love intentionally, communicate honestly, and build something that stands the test of time.

Because good things are coming… when love is built on purpose.

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#TheMoniePodcast #LoveThatLasts #FaithAndMarriage #BlackLove #ValentinesSpecial #MarriageGoals #IntentionalLove

In this powerful and timely episode of The Monie Podcast, Simone “Monie” Walsh sits down with Angelique Benois — psychotherapist, mental wellness consultant, and Executive Director of Nurturing Our Wellbeing Inc. — for a much-needed conversation centered on Black women, healing, and intentional self-care as we step into a new year.

Together, we unpack what it truly means to reset mentally, emotionally, and physically, especially for Black women who are often expected to be strong, resilient, and self-sacrificing at the expense of their own wellbeing. Angelique brings both clinical expertise and lived experience to the table, breaking down mental health in a way that feels relatable, compassionate, and empowering.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why Black women’s mental health deserves focused, intentional care

• The emotional weight Black women carry — and how to release it without guilt

• How stress, burnout, and unhealed trauma show up in the body

• The connection between mental health and dietary choices in the new year

• Why “doing it all” is not the same as being well

• How to set healthier boundaries in work, family, and relationships

• What healing actually looks like beyond buzzwords and trends

We also lighten the mood with a fun rapid-fire segment, giving listeners a glimpse into Angelique beyond her professional titles, and we close with the beloved “Good Things Are Coming” segment — a grounding affirmation and reminder that healing is possible, rest is necessary, and joy is allowed.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone craving a reset that prioritizes peace, alignment, and wholeness, especially as we move through a new season with intention.

✨ Good things are coming — especially when you choose yourself.

Don’t forget to watch, listen, subscribe, and share this episode with a sister, friend, or loved one who needs this reminder.

https://www.nurturingourwellbeing.com/freedom-reset/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelique-benois-mscn-psychotherapist-yoga-practitioner-26194b120/

In this powerful and timely episode of The Monie Podcast, we sit down with Francis Jeffers to explore the intersection of science, Black innovation, purpose, and perseverance — and why it’s critical that Black youth see themselves as builders of the future, not just participants in it.

As we enter Black History Month, this conversation could not be more fitting. Francis shares how Black excellence in science and innovation has often been overlooked, erased, or under-celebrated — and why reclaiming those narratives is essential for the next generation.

Throughout the episode, Francis drops golden nuggets on:

• The untold history of Black innovators and scientists

• Why representation in STEM truly matters

• Chasing big dreams even when the path feels unclear

• Overcoming limitations, doubt, and systemic barriers

• Paving the way for Black youth to think boldly and creatively

• Staying disciplined, curious, and purpose-driven in your journey

This episode is both educational and deeply motivational, reminding us that brilliance has always existed in our communities — and that dreaming big is not optional, it’s necessary.

Whether you’re a student, educator, parent, creative, or someone rediscovering their purpose, this conversation will challenge you to think bigger, reach higher, and believe deeper.

✨ Good things are coming — especially when we honour our past while building our future.

📌 Watch. Learn. Be inspired.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement to chase their dreams unapologetically.

In this powerful and deeply moving episode of The Monie Podcast, Monie sits down with Susan L. Stewart—former Olympic basketball player for Team Canada, woman of faith, and survivor of profound loss—for an honest conversation about resilience, grief, and rebuilding life after everything changes.

Susan takes us behind the scenes of her journey to the Olympic stage, the discipline and pressure of elite athletics, and the identity that comes with being at the top of your game. But just as powerfully, she opens up about the unthinkable loss that reshaped her world—and the emotional, spiritual, and mental work required to rise again.

This episode explores:

• Life after elite success and the identity shift that follows

• Navigating grief while the world expects you to be “strong”

• Faith when answers don’t come easily

• Mental resilience beyond the court

• Redefining purpose after loss

• What healing actually looks like (not the Instagram version)

Susan’s story is raw, grounded, and deeply human. Whether you’re grieving, rebuilding, questioning your faith, or simply trying to find your footing after life takes an unexpected turn—this conversation will meet you where you are.

✨ This is an episode about strength that isn’t loud, faith that wrestles, and hope that’s rebuilt one step at a time.

Book: https://www.amazon.ca/Unbreakable-Autobiography-Life-Susan-Stewart/dp/0993842038

🎧 Listen, reflect, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today.

In this powerful solo episode, Monie opens up about the emotional and spiritual reality of outgrowing people you once felt deeply connected to. From friendships and familiar patterns to relationships that no longer align, this conversation is about learning how to let go without anger, resentment, or bitterness.

As the new year begins, this episode invites you to pause and ask:

Who still fits the version of me I’m becoming?

Monie shares personal reflections, lessons learned through loss and distance, and the importance of choosing alignment over attachment. This episode is for anyone who has felt the quiet grief of separation — not because of conflict, but because of growth.

✨ In this episode, we talk about:

• Why outgrowing people is a natural part of personal evolution

• The difference between loyalty and self-abandonment

• Letting go with love, grace, and emotional maturity

• Releasing guilt when relationships no longer serve your purpose

• Protecting your peace without hardening your heart

As always, the episode closes with a reminder that Good Things Are Coming — even when letting go feels uncomfortable.

🎧 Watch, reflect, and share this episode with someone who may need permission to grow.

📌 Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode of The Monie Podcast.

In this powerful and grounding episode of The Monie Podcast, Monie kicks off the new year with an intentional conversation about health, healing, and self-care with Hasina Ireland — Holistic Nutritionist, Registered Massage Therapist, and Founder of Essential Healing Solutions.

As we enter a new year, many of us feel pressure to reset, push harder, and do more. But what if this year is about slowing down, listening to your body, and choosing wellness over burnout?

Hasina shares her journey into holistic healing and explains how nutrition, bodywork, rest, and emotional awareness are deeply connected. Together, they discuss the physical effects of stress, how unresolved emotions live in the body, and why true wellness isn’t about perfection — it’s about consistency, compassion, and balance.

This episode also explores:

• Realistic ways to improve your health without overwhelm

• How stress and burnout impact the nervous system

• The role of nutrition in mood, energy, and hormonal balance

• Why massage and rest are essential, not luxuries

• How women can reconnect with their bodies and prioritize care

Whether you’re starting fresh, recovering from burnout, or simply looking for a gentler way to move through life, this conversation offers wisdom, encouragement, and practical insight to help you feel more aligned in 2026.

✨ Good things are coming.

🎧 Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify

📌 Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share this episode with someone who needs a reset.

🔗 Visit Hasina’s website:

https://www.essentialhealingsolutions.ca/pages/about-etobicoke-wellness-center

In this deeply moving and faith-filled episode of The Monie Podcast, I sit down with Judine Gordon — author, educator, autism survivor, and mother — for an honest conversation about waiting, loss, hope, and the miracles that can come after heartbreak.

Judine opens up about her personal journey through infertility and multiple miscarriages, the emotional toll it took on her marriage and faith, and what it means to trust God when the prayers you’re praying aren’t being answered in the way — or the timing — you expected.

Inspired by her book The Cradle That Waits, this episode gently explores the realities faced by couples who struggle to conceive, those who consider or walk the path of adoption, and the growing conversations around women becoming mothers later in life. Judine also shares her journey into motherhood — now raising three children, including a set of twins — and how perseverance, faith, and surrender played a role in her story.

As a special-education teacher and autism survivor, Judine also speaks to resilience, identity, and learning to advocate for yourself while carrying both grief and gratitude at the same time.

This is not just a conversation about motherhood — it’s about faith in the waiting, hope after loss, and believing that God’s plan is still working even when the cradle feels empty.

✨ If you’ve ever experienced miscarriage

✨ If you’ve questioned God’s timing

✨ If you’re navigating infertility, adoption, or delayed dreams

✨ Or if you simply need reassurance that your story isn’t over

— this episode is for you.

Good things are coming.

🎧 Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify

📌 Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share with someone who needs this message today.

In this powerful solo episode of The Monie Podcast, Monie sits down with herself — no guest, no filters — just honesty, reflection, and gratitude.

As the year comes to a close and a new one approaches, Monie opens up about what it truly looks like to keep going when life doesn’t unfold the way you planned. From seasons of uncertainty, self-doubt, and silent prayers, to moments of growth, resilience, and quiet breakthroughs — this episode is for anyone who has been grinding while learning to remain grateful.

Monie reflects on rebuilding from the inside out, embracing the in-between season, and understanding that rock bottom can still be a foundation. She speaks candidly about being tired but faithful, delayed but not denied, and how trusting the process — even when it’s uncomfortable — can shape you for what’s next.

This episode is a reminder that:

✨ Rebuilding isn’t pretty, but it’s powerful

✨ You can lose everything and still find yourself again

✨ Gratitude doesn’t cancel the grind — it sustains it

✨ You are not behind — you’re being rebuilt

✨ Good things are coming, even if you can’t see them yet

Whether you’re ending the year with unanswered prayers, quiet wins, or a heart full of hope, this conversation is meant to meet you exactly where you are.

If you’re in your rebuilding era, this episode is for you.

🎧 New episodes drop every Sunday

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In this powerful and soul-nourishing episode, Monie sits down with the legendary Marion Rodrigues, widely known as the soothing voice behind G98.7’s beloved Soul Jazz program. With decades of experience in broadcasting, community work, and spiritual mentorship, Marion brings a rare blend of wisdom, gentleness, and truth to this deeply inspiring conversation.

Together, they explore:

🌿 Her radio journey — from stepping into a male-dominated industry to becoming a trusted voice across the city.

🌿 Grace & reinvention — how life’s unexpected seasons shape our identity and strengthen our purpose.

🌿 Spiritual grounding — the role of faith in healing, decision-making, and navigating challenges.

🌿 Womanhood, legacy, and self-worth — and the lessons she wishes every woman knew.

🌿 The power of softness in a world that often demands hardness.

🌿 Community, mentorship, and what keeps her “glowing” inside and out.

This episode is rich, heartfelt, and full of gems that will stay with you long after you’ve finished listening. Marion’s presence is comforting, her stories are grounding, and her wisdom is timeless.

💜 Good Things Are Coming — stay to the end for Monie’s signature affirmation segment.

If you enjoy deep, meaningful conversations filled with insight and authenticity, this is one you don’t want to miss.

👉 Watch now and don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify for more inspiring episodes every Sunday.

This week on The Monie Podcast, we welcome the incomparable Kerry-Lee Crawford — former radio personality, community builder, media voice, and the heart behind The Breakfast Club program that uplifts and inspires youth every single morning.

In this powerful and reflective conversation, Kerry-Lee opens up about:

• 🎙 His evolution from radio host to community leader

• 🌅 The experiences that shaped his voice, his purpose, and his direction

• 👦🏽 Why investing in the next generation means everything to him

• 🧠 How he stays grounded, centered, and mentally strong in a noisy world

• 💛 The lessons life taught him about faith, alignment, authenticity, and living fully

• 🔥 What legacy really means — and why it’s never too late to pivot into the life you were meant to live

This episode is equal parts wisdom, humor, heart, and real talk. Whether you’re chasing purpose, rebuilding your confidence, starting over, or searching for the “more” inside you — Kerry-Lee’s journey will remind you that you’re never done growing.

And of course, we close with my signature segment:

✨ Good Things Are Coming — a moment of affirmation and upliftment for your week.

⸻

If this episode inspires you, don’t forget to:

✔ Subscribe on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify

✔ Like & share the episode

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Thank you for supporting The Monie Podcast — where conversation meets healing, purpose, and real life.