Before 2021 comes to an end most of us will brave family gatherings, dream board parties, and an eggnog latte or two. With that, the next few months can bring a multitude of emotions – positive and negative. Many of us may experience community at a Friendsgivng party but isolation following a family Christmas dinner. So, it’s important to have a support system or two before we welcome in 2022. I’ll be relying on the following podcasts to lean into the things that allow me to unwind and also learn something new. Happy listening!
Manifest Daily
Was I originally hesitant to admit that I consider Dheandra Nicolette (the host of the Manifest Daily podcast) my homegirl in my head? Yes. Am I learning to be transparent and honest based on her advice? Absolutely. Ever since I found this podcast less than a month ago I’ve incorporated it into my morning routine. Not only do I receive motivation on my drive into work, but Dheandra’s advice gives me clarity to pursue my passions (i.e. this blog) once I’m done with my 9-5.
The first episode I listened to was the episode about social anxiety and I felt SEEN. I learned that although my social anxiety may not look as extreme as what I’ve been conditioned to believe, it’s okay to embrace the flaws that I’ve grown accustomed to dismissing. There’s also something refreshing about hearing someone else share about something I typically internalize. We love a transparent queen.
Another favorite episode is “7 Ways to Know You’re In Alignment“. I highly recommend for those of us who are pursuing growth and need a few signs that we’re on the right path.
Listen to this show when: You’re working on your 2022 vision board and are in desperate need of some inspiration and affirmations to achieve your goals.
Where to start: just dive in….ASAP.
Humanized with Blue Telusma
I discovered this podcast after my boss recommended the “Are You Too ‘Deep’ to Date?” episode with David Johns. I was intrigued when the host Blue Telusma and David, who’s the founder of the National Black Justice Coalition, shared their thoughts on Tesla’s announcement to start using humanoid robots. If you’re unfamiliar, Tesla announced it would employ new i-Robot- looking, nightmare-esque “Tesla Bots” in its warehouses to perform mundane tasks. I immediately hit that subscribe button when Blue correlated Tesla’s new supply chain solution to the racism that takes place in the STEM field. Go listen, it applies.
In addition to getting me up to speed on the news, as an energy reader, Blue has a gift for navigating current events and going beneath the surface. Contrary to the other podcasts on this list, after one listen, Blue will most likely read your horoscope, call you on your bullsh*t and wrap you in a warm virtual hug by the end of the episode.
Listen to this show when: You’re mustering up the energy to leave your house to go to Thanksgiving dinner where you anticipate your problematic uncle asking you some triggering questions.
Where to start: Episode 1
The Read
I couldn’t leave The Read off this list solely based on the fact that my evening routines wouldn’t hit the same without it. As a dedicated listener, I’ve been to several live shows and haven’t missed an episode since I subscribed back in 2015.
Hosts, Kid Fury and Crissle, kick off each episode with their “black excellence” segment and then eloquently transition into hot topics, which typically include your favorite problematic rapper’s most recent Insta rant. After, listener letters we jump into “the read” where the hosts hilariously rant about topics that most likely had us all up in arms the week before.
The reason I’ve listened to this show once a week for the past six years is because the hosts are the true definition of “honest.” From being brutally candid with listeners writing in about relationship advice to sharing about their personal mental health journeys, Crissle and Kid Fury are straight-shooters who encourage me to be more forthright with myself.
Listen to this show when: Your bench player for this year’s cuffing season posts an anti-vaccine rant to his or her stories.
Where to start: The most recent episode and work your way back.
