In this episode, Whitney sits down with award -winning journalist and author Markette Sheppard for a powerful conversation about resilience, legacy, and the sacred role Black women play in shaping our communities. Markette opens up about her journey into journalism-the spark that led to her storytelling, the challenges that she's navigated in the journalism industry, and the wisdom that she's gained along the way.

The conversation then shifts to her newest children's book Grandma Dee's Pineapple Upside Down Cake, a tender tribute born from grief, memory, and the sweetness of family. Markette shares how losing her grandmother and another beloved family member reshaped her, and how her newest novel became a pathway to healing. Together, she and Whitney explore the importance of having a supportive village and what it truly means to be that village for the next generation.

The episode closes with a reflective discussion on the phrase "When Black Women Talk....." an invitation to consider the power, truth, and generational wisdom carried in Black women's voices. This is an episode about storytelling, resilience, and the communities that hold us up.

Visit Markette Sheppard at Markette Sheppard – TV Host | Author | Journalist

Purchase Grandma Dee's Pineapple Upside Down Cake Pre-Order a Signed Copy! – Markette Sheppard

Subscribe to When Black Women Talk: The Podcast at

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/when-black-women-talk-the-podcast/id1489819111

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/when-black-women-talk-the-podcast/id1489819111

https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e8baa32-90ef-4770-889e-19c8b7489791/when-black-women-talk-the-podcast

***WARNING- This episode was created prior to upgrading my software and editing equipment so there may be some feedback when I'm speaking. I'm working on recording part two with Christina which will have better quality than the original. However, this episode touched me in so many ways, and the world deserves to hear Christina's story***

FIRST GUEST ALERT

On this week's episode of When Black Women Talk: The Podcast, Whitney sits down with the incredible Christina- a woman of faith, a single mother, and a powerful cycle-breaker who's rewriting her family's legacy.

The duo talk about:

• What it really means to break generational curses
• How her Christian faith kept her grounded through life's storms
• Raising her sons with intention, love, and legacy in mind
• And what freedom, healing, and growth look like as a Black woman

This one is raw, real, and full of restoration. You don't want to miss it!

A new year doesn't require a new you-it requires an intentional one. In this episode of When Black Women Talk, we're talking about what it truly means to move through 2026 with purpose, clarity, and grace. From releasing autopilot to choosing rest, alignment, and peace, this conversation is an invitation to slow down and live on purpose.

If you're entering this year tired of survival mode and ready to choose yourself-this episode is for you.

Reflection Prompts

1.) What do I want more of in 2026-and what needs to go?

2.) Where have I been moving on autopilot?

3.) What does rest look like for me this year?

4.) What am I no longer available for?

5.) If I could choose one word for 2026, what would it be?

Affirmation: "I give myself permission to move with intention and grace. I don't have to rush my becoming. I am allowed to choose rest, joy, and alignment. In 2026, I honor myself fully-mind, body, and spirit."

Need advice? Send your advice questions to [email protected]

Follow us on substack!

https://substack.com/@whenblackwomentalkthepodcast/note/p-181612336?utm_source=notes-share-action&r=3nw0vk

In this episode of When Black Women Talk: The Podcast, Whitney reflects on what it means to practice gratitude in every season of life-whether you're in a season of growth, rest, healing, or transition. She shares the small moments she's been appreciating lately and how making space for gratitude has opened the door for new blessings, clarify, and peace. If you've been longing to slow down, breathe deeper, and honor where you are, this episode will speak right to your soul.

Need Advice: Email us at [email protected]

Subscribe, Rate, and Review

WBWT has officially launched and what better way to celebrate the official launch than celebrating the creator and host, Whitney Gi'Ana's 35th birthday. This episode has all the feels-if you listen all the way to the end, you'll notice a few seconds of silence because your girl was holding back tears. What a journey this been. Whitney dwells into the birth of WBWT, the struggle of relaunching a podcast, navigating life, and what is in store for this beautiful space curated for women of color. Hit the subscribe button and follow us on social media.

TEASER: As I prepare for our relaunch in June, our creator and host Whitney GiAna (@1Lovee_GiAna) recorded a recent episode describing her journey into Motherhood, mourning the loss of her family Matriarch, and learning to prioritizing self. This episode is for all the mothers and mother figures learning to survive and thrive in this challenging, yet beautiful journey. This episode is raw, authentic, and UNEDITED. Please feel free to rate, review, and leave feedback and subscribe for more episodes to come soon as we prepare for our relaunch.