Therapy for Black Girls

Alyssa Ashley, founder of In Real Life Skin, was raised in a traditional West Indian household where self-care was embraced as a holistic lifestyle rather than a simple routine. From a young age, she incorporated natural ingredients like pomegranate extract, magnesium, and vitamin E into her diet and skincare, discovering their powerful benefits for both physical and emotional well-being. 

Alyssa identified a missing link between agriculture, beauty, and wellness. This insight led to the creation of In Real Life Skin, a brand rooted in the principles of neurocosmetics and designed to promote skin health, emotional balance, and sustainability. Her vision centers on reflecting real life through skincare by offering plant-based products and resources that foster healthy habits, emotional wellness, and authentic community connections.

In this episode, Alyssa opens up about the realities of leaving a corporate 9-5 job in order to pursue starting your own business.. We’re talking about self-discovery, sacrifice, entrepreneurial affirmations, and understanding how your business is connected to your inner child. So if you have been trying to figure out how to make the jump from employee to employer or are just fascinated by the story behind founders, this one’s for you.

Where to Find Alyssa

Instagram: @alyssa_s_ashley

Instagram: @inreallifeskin

Make sure to follow us on social media:

Instagram

TikTok

Interested in being a part of a future TBG U episode or suggesting a topic for us to discuss, send us a note HERE. 

Order a copy of Sisterhood Heals for you and your girls HERE. 

Our Production Team

Executive Producers: Dennison Bradford & Maya Cole Howard

Senior Producer: Ellice Ellis

Producer: Tyree Rush & Ndeye Thioubou

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These days, we talk a lot about community, and for good reason. But it’s important to remember that spending time alone is just as important. So what does it actually look like to enjoy your own company? Alone time isn’t just about being by yourself, it’s about slowing down, reconnecting, and noticing what comes up when you’re not in constant dialogue with the world around you. And although for some it may be uncomfortable and a little anxiety-inducing, when done with intention it can be incredibly rewarding. That’s why today I’m excited to discuss how making space for solitude in our busy lives can help us feel more at home in ourselves.

If something resonates with you from this conversation, please share it with us on social media using the hashtag #TBGInSession. Or join us in our Patreon channel to talk more in-depth about the episode. You can join us at community.therapyforblackgirls.com.

About the Podcast

The Therapy for Black Girls Podcast is a weekly conversation with Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, a licensed Psychologist in Atlanta, Georgia, about all things mental health, personal development, and all the small decisions we can make to become the best possible versions of ourselves.

Resources & Announcements

After years of growing, connecting, and healing together, the Therapy for Black Girls Community is now officially live on Patreon—and let’s just say, it’s giving everything it needs to give! From exclusive content and weekly chats to live events and deeper convos with sisters who just get it, this is your space to show up fully and be poured into. Learn more and join us here. 

Did you know you can leave us a voice note with your questions for the podcast? If you have a question you'd like some feedback on, topics you'd like to hear covered, or want to suggest movies or books for us to review, drop us a message at memo.fm/therapyforblackgirls and let us know what’s on your mind. We just might share it on the podcast.

Grab your copy of Sisterhood Heals.

Stay Connected

Is there a topic you'd like covered on the podcast? Submit it at therapyforblackgirls.com/mailbox.

If you're looking for a therapist in your area, check out the directory at https://www.therapyforblackgirls.com/directory.

Grab your copy of our guided affirmation and other TBG Merch at therapyforblackgirls.com/shop.

The hashtag for the podcast is #TBGinSession.

Make sure to follow us on social media:

Twitter: @therapy4bgirls

Instagram: @therapyforblackgirls

Facebook: @therapyforblackgirls

Our Production Team

Executive Producers: Dennison Bradford & Maya Cole Howard

Senior Producer: Ellice Ellis

Producers: Tyree Rush & Ndeye Thioubou

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we’re joined by the brilliant and unapologetically authentic Dr. Donna Oriowo, licensed clinical social worker, certified sex and relationship therapist, and author of the bold new book, Drink Water & Mind Your Business. Known for her unique blend of cultural insight, therapeutic expertise, and straight-no-chaser delivery, Dr. Oriowo returns to the show to share the inspiration behind her new work and why it’s a necessary read for Black women navigating life, relationships, and radical self-care. We’re diving into what it really means to protect your peace, create boundaries without guilt, and center yourself in a world that often demands your labor but denies your rest.

About the Podcast

The Therapy for Black Girls Podcast is a weekly conversation with Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, a licensed Psychologist in Atlanta, Georgia, about all things mental health, personal development, and all the small decisions we can make to become the best possible versions of ourselves.

Resources & Announcements

After years of growing, connecting, and healing together, the Therapy for Black Girls Community is now officially live on Patreon—and let’s just say, it’s giving everything it needs to give! From exclusive content and weekly chats to live events and deeper convos with sisters who just get it, this is your space to show up fully and be poured into. Learn more and join us here. 

Did you know you can leave us a voice note with your questions for the podcast? If you have a question you'd like some feedback on, topics you'd like to hear covered, or want to suggest movies or books for us to review, drop us a message at memo.fm/therapyforblackgirls and let us know what’s on your mind. We just might share it on the podcast.

Grab your copy of Sisterhood Heals.

Where to Find Our Guest

Instagram - @dr.donnaoriowo

Grab your copy of Drink Water & Mind Your Business

Stay Connected

Is there a topic you'd like covered on the podcast? Submit it at therapyforblackgirls.com/mailbox.

If you're looking for a therapist in your area, check out the directory at https://www.therapyforblackgirls.com/directory.

Grab your copy of our guided affirmation and other TBG Merch at therapyforblackgirls.com/shop.

The hashtag for the podcast is #TBGinSession.

Make sure to follow us on social media:

Twitter: @therapy4bgirls

Instagram: @therapyforblackgirls

Facebook: @therapyforblackgirls

Our Production Team

Executive Producers: Dennison Bradford & Maya Cole Howard

Senior Producer: Ellice Ellis

Producers: Tyree Rush & Ndeye Thioubou

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’re on #BookTok or any book-obsessed corner of the internet, especially amongst Black women, you know that there’s always a Kennedy Ryan book at the center of the conversation. Kennedy is no stranger to crafting characters that feel real and fully formed and her stories linger with you long after you’ve turned the last page. Her newest book, ‘Can't Get Enough,’ is no exception. The third and final book in her Skyland series explores shifts in family dynamics, deep love, and the kind of healing that feels both tender and powerful. Today Kennedy joins us on the podcast to dive further into her writing process and talk about how she brings these stories to life.

About the Podcast

The Therapy for Black Girls Podcast is a weekly conversation with Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, a licensed Psychologist in Atlanta, Georgia, about all things mental health, personal development, and all the small decisions we can make to become the best possible versions of ourselves.

Resources & Announcements

After years of growing, connecting, and healing together, the Therapy for Black Girls Community is now officially live on Patreon—and let’s just say, it’s giving everything it needs to give! From exclusive content and weekly chats to live events and deeper convos with sisters who just get it, this is your space to show up fully and be poured into. Learn more and join us here. 

Did you know you can leave us a voice note with your questions for the podcast? If you have a question you'd like some feedback on, topics you'd like to hear covered, or want to suggest movies or books for us to review, drop us a message at memo.fm/therapyforblackgirls and let us know what’s on your mind. We just might share it on the podcast.

Grab your copy of Sisterhood Heals.

Where to Find Our Guest

Instagram -  @kennedyryan1

Grab your copy of Can't Get Enough. 

Catch Kennedy on her book tour. 

Stay Connected

Is there a topic you'd like covered on the podcast? Submit it at therapyforblackgirls.com/mailbox.

If you're looking for a therapist in your area, check out the directory at https://www.therapyforblackgirls.com/directory.

Grab your copy of our guided affirmation and other TBG Merch at therapyforblackgirls.com/shop.

The hashtag for the podcast is #TBGinSession.

Make sure to follow us on social media:

Twitter: @therapy4bgirls

Instagram: @therapyforblackgirls

Facebook: @therapyforblackgirls

Our Production Team

Executive Producers: Dennison Bradford & Maya Cole Howard

Senior Producer: Ellice Ellis

Producers: Tyree Rush & Ndeye Thioubou

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we're joined by educator, writer, and bibliotherapist Emely Rumble, LCSW who's here to share the powerful story behind her debut book, Bibliotherapy in the Bronx. In this inspiring and deeply resonant conversation, Emely explains how the books we read can be a lifeline, a mirror, and a healing balm, especially for young people navigating complex emotional landscapes. From growing up in the Bronx to creating reading circles for healing in underserved schools, Emely has reimagined what therapy can look like for Black and brown communities, centering literature, community, and voice. We’re talking representation, literacy as liberation, and the magic that happens when you see yourself on the page.

About the Podcast

The Therapy for Black Girls Podcast is a weekly conversation with Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, a licensed Psychologist in Atlanta, Georgia, about all things mental health, personal development, and all the small decisions we can make to become the best possible versions of ourselves.

Resources & Announcements

After years of growing, connecting, and healing together, the Therapy for Black Girls Community is now officially live on Patreon—and let’s just say, it’s giving everything it needs to give! From exclusive content and weekly chats to live events and deeper convos with sisters who just get it, this is your space to show up fully and be poured into. Learn more and join us here. 

Did you know you can leave us a voice note with your questions for the podcast? If you have a question you'd like some feedback on, topics you'd like to hear covered, or want to suggest movies or books for us to review, drop us a message at memo.fm/therapyforblackgirls and let us know what’s on your mind. We just might share it on the podcast.

Grab your copy of Sisterhood Heals.

Where to Find Our Guest

Instagram - @literapy_nyc

Grab your copy of Bibliotherapy in the Bronx.

Stay Connected

Is there a topic you'd like covered on the podcast? Submit it at therapyforblackgirls.com/mailbox.

If you're looking for a therapist in your area, check out the directory at https://www.therapyforblackgirls.com/directory.

Grab your copy of our guided affirmation and other TBG Merch at therapyforblackgirls.com/shop.

The hashtag for the podcast is #TBGinSession.

Make sure to follow us on social media:

Twitter: @therapy4bgirls

Instagram: @therapyforblackgirls

Facebook: @therapyforblackgirls

Our Production Team

Executive Producers: Dennison Bradford & Maya Cole Howard

Senior Producer: Ellice Ellis

Producers: Tyree Rush & Ndeye Thioubou

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re back with another episode of TBGU and joined by another very special guest. Nia Symone is a powerhouse who knows all about pivoting with purpose. A former D1 athlete turned rising star in sports broadcasting, she is proof that your story doesn’t end when the game clock runs out, it evolves.

In this episode, Nia opens up about the identity shift that came with stepping away from competitive sports, how she built a new lane in media, and the importance of showing up as her full, authentic self in an industry that hasn’t always made space for voices like hers. We’re talking about self-discovery, representation, and redefining what it means to be a woman in sports. So whether you’re an athlete, a creative, or someone standing at the edge of your next chapter, this one’s for you.

Where to Find Nia

Instagram: @niaonair

Make sure to follow us on social media:

Instagram

TikTok

Interested in being a part of a future TBG U episode or suggesting a topic for us to discuss, send us a note HERE. 

Order a copy of Sisterhood Heals for you and your girls HERE. 

Our Production Team

Executive Producers: Dennison Bradford & Maya Cole Howard

Senior Producer: Ellice Ellis

Producer: Tyree Rush & Ndeye Thioubou

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It can often feel like healing should look a certain way. Meditating, journaling, saying your affirmations—these are surely all factors of the healing process. But what happens when you know you need to dig deeper, but can’t figure out how?  Sometimes healing isn’t as aesthetic or straightforward as it looks online. It’s messy. It’s nonlinear. It’s showing up to do the hard work when you’d rather keep it light. 

Today I'm excited to have Devi Brown joining us again. Devi is a Well-Being Educator, Multidisciplinary Healer, author, and Host of the Deeply Well podcast. As the founder of Devi Brown Well-Being, she has dedicated her career to helping leaders, artists, and athletes navigate healing, self-discovery, and personal growth through mindfulness, spiritual psychology, and holistic wellness practices. In today’s conversation, we explore this deeply introspective and thorough guide to emotions and values, cultivating self-connection, and unlocking one’s highest potential to build a stronger foundation rooted in holistic healing.

About the Podcast

The Therapy for Black Girls Podcast is a weekly conversation with Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, a licensed Psychologist in Atlanta, Georgia, about all things mental health, personal development, and all the small decisions we can make to become the best possible versions of ourselves.

Resources & Announcements

After years of growing, connecting, and healing together, the Therapy for Black Girls Community is now officially live on Patreon—and let’s just say, it’s giving everything it needs to give! From exclusive content and weekly chats to live events and deeper convos with sisters who just get it, this is your space to show up fully and be poured into. Learn more and join us here. 

Did you know you can leave us a voice note with your questions for the podcast? If you have a question you'd like some feedback on, topics you'd like to hear covered, or want to suggest movies or books for us to review, drop us a message at memo.fm/therapyforblackgirls and let us know what’s on your mind. We just might share it on the podcast.

Grab your copy of Sisterhood Heals.

Where to Find Our Guest

Instagram - @devibrown  

Get a copy of ‘Living In Wisdom’ - https://www.devibrown.com/book 

Stay Connected

Is there a topic you'd like covered on the podcast? Submit it at therapyforblackgirls.com/mailbox.

If you're looking for a therapist in your area, check out the directory at https://www.therapyforblackgirls.com/directory.

Grab your copy of our guided affirmation and other TBG Merch at therapyforblackgirls.com/shop.

The hashtag for the podcast is #TBGinSession.

Make sure to follow us on social media:

Twitter: @therapy4bgirls

Instagram: @therapyforblackgirls

Facebook: @therapyforblackgirls

Our Production Team

Executive Producers: Dennison Bradford & Maya Cole Howard

Senior Producer: Ellice Ellis

Producers: Tyree Rush & Ndeye Thioubou

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The NATAL podcast, executive-produced and hosted by Gabrielle Horton and Martina Abrahams Ilunga, is an audio docuseries centering Black parenthood and reproductive justice in America. Since launching the show, Gabrielle and Martina have brought us deeply personal stories, sharing the lived experiences of Black women, gender-expansive people, and families navigating the reproductive care space. Through that storytelling, they not only educate their audiences and raise awareness, but they also push for real, systemic change in maternal healthcare—advocating for a future where Black families have access to care that is truly equitable and rooted in compassion. In honor of Black Maternal Health Week, they joined us this week to share a behind the scenes look at what it looked like to bring Season 3 to life. 

About the Podcast

The Therapy for Black Girls Podcast is a weekly conversation with Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, a licensed Psychologist in Atlanta, Georgia, about all things mental health, personal development, and all the small decisions we can make to become the best possible versions of ourselves.

Resources & Announcements

After years of growing, connecting, and healing together, the Therapy for Black Girls Community is now officially live on Patreon—and let’s just say, it’s giving everything it needs to give! From exclusive content and weekly chats to live events and deeper convos with sisters who just get it, this is your space to show up fully and be poured into. Learn more and join us here. 

Did you know you can leave us a voice note with your questions for the podcast? If you have a question you'd like some feedback on, topics you'd like to hear covered, or want to suggest movies or books for us to review, drop us a message at memo.fm/therapyforblackgirls and let us know what’s on your mind. We just might share it on the podcast.

Grab your copy of Sisterhood Heals.

Where to Find Our Guests

Instagram - @natalstories 

Website - www.natalstories.com 

Stay Connected

Is there a topic you'd like covered on the podcast? Submit it at therapyforblackgirls.com/mailbox.

If you're looking for a therapist in your area, check out the directory at https://www.therapyforblackgirls.com/directory.

Grab your copy of our guided affirmation and other TBG Merch at therapyforblackgirls.com/shop.

The hashtag for the podcast is #TBGinSession.

Make sure to follow us on social media:

Twitter: @therapy4bgirls

Instagram: @therapyforblackgirls

Facebook: @therapyforblackgirls

Our Production Team

Executive Producers: Dennison Bradford & Maya Cole Howard

Senior Producer: Ellice Ellis

Producers: Tyree Rush & Ndeye Thioubou

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Driving and getting your license is generally considered a milestone achievement of adolescence and early adulthood but for many the prospect of driving can lead to anxiety. This was the case for our first guest today, Hey Fran Hey. Fran is a wellness advocate, influencer, and most famously co-host of The Friend Zone podcast. In a recent episode she opened up about her struggles with getting her license and learning how to drive as an adult. During our conversation Fran shares some of her experiences with anxiety about driving and how she's been managing. And later in the episode I'm joined by Licensed Psychologist, Dr. Jameeka Moore who specializes in treating anxiety disorders using evidence based treatment approaches.

About the Podcast

The Therapy for Black Girls Podcast is a weekly conversation with Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, a licensed Psychologist in Atlanta, Georgia, about all things mental health, personal development, and all the small decisions we can make to become the best possible versions of ourselves.

Resources & Announcements

We are preparing to launch our Patreon community! Sign up now at therapyforblackgirls.com/joinpatreon to get exclusive updates and be the first to know when we launch. We can’t wait to see you inside!

Did you know you can leave us a voice note with your questions for the podcast? If you have a question you'd like some feedback on, topics you'd like to hear covered, or want to suggest movies or books for us to review, drop us a message at memo.fm/therapyforblackgirls and let us know what’s on your mind. We just might share it on the podcast.

Grab your copy of Sisterhood Heals.

Where to Find Our Guests

Hey Fran Hey

Instagram - @heyfranhey 

Dr. Jameeka Moore

Instagram - @jam_sessionz

Stay Connected

Is there a topic you'd like covered on the podcast? Submit it at therapyforblackgirls.com/mailbox.

If you're looking for a therapist in your area, check out the directory at https://www.therapyforblackgirls.com/directory.

Grab your copy of our guided affirmation and other TBG Merch at therapyforblackgirls.com/shop.

The hashtag for the podcast is #TBGinSession.

Make sure to follow us on social media:

Threads: @therapyforblackgirls

Instagram: @therapyforblackgirls

Facebook: @therapyforblackgirls

Our Production Team

Executive Producers: Dennison Bradford & Maya Cole Howard

Senior Producer: Ellice Ellis

Producers: Tyree Rush & Ndeye Thioubou

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Morgan DeBaun is a visionary entrepreneur, strategist, and the powerhouse founder and CEO of Blavity, Inc., a digital media empire dedicated to amplifying the voices of Black millennials and equipping them with the tools to thrive. Over the past decade, she has redefined what it means to create economic equity, using storytelling, wealth-building, and advocacy to uplift underrepresented communities. Morgan continues to inspire as a mentor, investor, and speaker. And with her new book, Rewrite Your Rules, she’s guiding professionals to create a bespoke frame for their success—one that prioritizes authenticity, ambition, and financial empowerment on their own terms.

About the Podcast

The Therapy for Black Girls Podcast is a weekly conversation with Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, a licensed Psychologist in Atlanta, Georgia, about all things mental health, personal development, and all the small decisions we can make to become the best possible versions of ourselves.

Resources & Announcements

We are preparing to launch our Patreon community! Sign up now at therapyforblackgirls.com/joinpatreon to get exclusive updates and be the first to know when we launch. We can’t wait to see you inside!

Did you know you can leave us a voice note with your questions for the podcast? If you have a question you'd like some feedback on, topics you'd like to hear covered, or want to suggest movies or books for us to review, drop us a message at memo.fm/therapyforblackgirls and let us know what’s on your mind. We just might share it on the podcast.

Grab your copy of Sisterhood Heals.

Where to Find Our Guest

Instagram

Order Your Copy of Rewrite Your Rules

The Journey By Morgan DeBaun Podcast

Stay Connected

Is there a topic you'd like covered on the podcast? Submit it at therapyforblackgirls.com/mailbox.

If you're looking for a therapist in your area, check out the directory at https://www.therapyforblackgirls.com/directory.

Grab your copy of our guided affirmation and other TBG Merch at therapyforblackgirls.com/shop.

The hashtag for the podcast is #TBGinSession.

Make sure to follow us on social media:

Twitter: @therapy4bgirls

Instagram: @therapyforblackgirls

Facebook: @therapyforblackgirls

Our Production Team

Executive Producers: Dennison Bradford & Maya Cole Howard

Senior Producer: Ellice Ellis

Producers: Tyree Rush & Ndeye Thioubou

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.