Bria opens up in this short and sweet episode about her recent struggles, triumphs, and thoughts. In this bonus episode, Bria shares her recent mental health struggles, incorporating psychiatry into her wellness routine, and how depression can only be fought through intentional, positive action. Bria also discusses the hottest new movie out now, "Sinners" and how it touched her personally. Towards the end, Bria reminds her listeners of the various ways to interact with the Growing Pains community. If you want to hear more episodes like this, subscribe to and rate Growing Pains on your preferred platform!

Bria talks with Abdul Tubman, a Renaissance Man who is many things but first and foremost, is a community activist that encourages unity amongst the African diaspora. Abdul is also a project manager, film and theater producer, writer, public speaker, director of operations for a nonprofit that serves the black community, and an amateur oil painter. His unique familial background has turned into passions for African Diasporan unity and environmental sustainability. Bria and Abdul discuss the African diaspora, uplifting the black community worldwide, and how allowing ourselves to pursue our passions is liberation in its own right.

Time Stamps:

0:00 - Intro to Abdul Tubman & His Legacy

2:54 - The Impact of Migration & Community Building

5:56 - Creative Outlets as a Form of Liberation

8:59 - Generational Impact & Leadership

11:54 - The Importance of Collective Economics

15:10 - Cultural Renaissance & Global Unity

17:57 - The Role of Mentorship in Community Growth

21:01 - Breaking Generational Cycles & Mindset Shifts

26:38 - Breaking the Taboo: Conversations About Sex

27:39 - The Importance of Accountability & Choices

30:21 - Collaboration: The Key to Overcoming Challenges

32:45 - The Impact of Music & Media in Society

36:42 - The Role of Celebrities in Social Issues

40:06 - Understanding Injustice and its Broader Implications

45:46 - Legacy & Inspiring Change

If you would like to hear more from Abdul Tubman, follow his socials:

IG: @tubmansunderground

If you like Growing Pains, don't forget to rate, subscribe, and share with your community!

Bria sits down with rapper and creative multi-hyphenate, SmooveDonn, to discuss the inspiration behind his newly released album "Stop Being Emotional."

Bria sits down with Rhaea Goff, a licensed clinical social worker and certified purpose clarity coach with over 20 years of experience in helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. As the founder of A Rhaea Hope, a multidisciplinary practice, Rhaea is passionate about empowering people to reconnect with their true selves, strengthen relationships, and take control of their emotional well-being. She believe in a holistic, client-centered approach that encourages lasting transformation.

Time Stamps:

0:00 - Intro to Life Coaching & Personal Growth

2:00 - Rhaea's Journey: From Uncertainty to Certainty

5:10 - Navigating Career Paths and Misalignment

10:12 - The Struggle for Authenticity in Professional Life

14:45 - Chasing Purpose: The Nudge in Your Heart

18:35 - Understanding Misalignment and Intentional Decisions

22:55 - The Mind-Body Connection and Its Importance

28:12 - Life Coaching: Unpacking Values & Intentions

32:33 - Aligning Life Areas for Fulfillment

34:18 - Embracing Uniqueness as a Superpower

36:48 - Recognizing & Utilizing Personal Gifts

39:17 - Navigating Relationships & Acceptance

41:52 - The Importance of Time in Healing

44:22 - Overcoming Instant Gratification Mindset

49:13 - Managing Decision Fatigue

52:12 - Brain Dumping for Clarity

54:33 Understanding Your Zone of Genius

56:50 - The Power of Variety in Coaching

01:01:29 - Living Authentically & Embracing Uniqueness

If you wanted to learn how to pursue a fulfilling and authentic life, click the link below specially curated by Rhaea to get you started!

Workbook:

⁠http://www.arhaeahope.com/workbook-growingpains⁠

Website: www.arhaeahope.com

IG & FB: @arhaeahope

In this insightful episode, Bria talks with Jae Lux, a liberation and wellness coach about the steps we can all take to healing our inner child and following our passions.

Jae moved from Atlanta to Arizona to pursue her passions of helping black women heal through community and mindfulness practices such as yoga and journaling. With a masters in Africana women studies, Jae looks to identify the trauma black women inherit and experience throughout the diaspora and how those stressors affect their nervous system, relationships, and mindsets. By helping black women explore the things they like to do, it allows for positive experiences to replace and heal the negative experiences black women are often subjected to.

Time Stamps:

0:00 - Intro to Healing & Liberation for Black Women

7:14 - The Journey of Education & Self Discovery

14:00 - Navigating Career Transitions & Finding Fulfillment

22:06 - The Role of Discipline & Consistency in Wellness

30:05 - Understanding the Work of a Liberation & Wellness Coach

36:34 - The Importance of Finding the Right Support

39:09 - Journaling as a Tool for Self Discovery

43:15 - Uncovering Hidden Aspects of Self

46:38 - Reconnecting with Creativity

49:23 - The Role of Community in Healing

52:47 - Spirituality vs. Organized Religion

01:01:25 - The Journey of Healing & Liberation

If you like what you hear in this episode, follow Jae Lux’s IG: @_jae.lux

Also, rate Growing Pains and subscribe for more inspiring stories like this!

***Exciting news! Growing Pains has released a new website and merchandise. Our website has all things Growing Pains related in one place. If you would like to interact more with the host, Bria, or get more insight on our community, check it out!***

In this deeply insightful episode, we sit down with the talented Georgette Pierre, a voice actor, producer, writer, and creative entrepreneur who’s reshaping the media landscape with her multifaceted talents. Georgette opens up about her creative journey, from the humble beginnings in production to finding her voice in voice acting and her larger vision for creative development. This conversation is full of gems on self-discovery, personal growth, and how to truly show up in creative spaces, unapologetically. Georgette’s story is one of resilience, intentionality, and giving back, and she teaches us how to harness our own unique voices and talents, regardless of the obstacles we may face.

Time Stamps:

00:00 - 05:00: Georgette shares her early years in production, how she transitioned into voice acting, and how her skill set evolved over time. She emphasizes the importance of intention and consistency in the process of auditioning and building a career as a voice actor.

05:01 - 10:00: From the technical aspects of the job to the emotional labor that comes with the role, Georgette details how each voiceover project requires a different approach. Whether it’s animation or commercial work, she highlights how crucial it is to understand the client’s needs and break down the script with care to deliver the right tone and authenticity.

10:01 - 15:00: We dive deeper into the art of script analysis, exploring the contrast between commercial and animation scripts. Georgette also sheds light on her approach to auditions—how she manages her own expectations while balancing her agency work and freelance opportunities. Manifestation and being clear on your goals become key themes as she reflects on her path toward booking opportunities and gaining confidence.

15:01 - 20:00: Georgette speaks candidly about the realities of freelancing without an agent and how important it is to keep pursuing opportunities on pay-to-play platforms like Voices.com. She gives us a breakdown of supervised vs. unsupervised sessions, where she goes from self-editing to performing in real-time under studio supervision. Georgette also speaks about how she’s not just waiting for work to come in but is proactive in making sure that her business is thriving no matter what.

20:01 - 25:00: With a focus on creative development, Georgette talks about how she envisions using her platform to support and uplift other creatives, especially Black Caribbean voices. She reflects on the importance of building ecosystems that support marginalized voices, inspired by trailblazers like Issa Rae, Lena Waithe, and Quinta Brunson. Georgette talks about creating spaces where people can learn, grow, and share their stories in a way that feels authentic.

25:01 - 30:00: As Georgette’s journey continues to evolve, we discuss the concept of legacy and the idea of living unapologetically, something that she sees reflected in the work of Issa Rae. Her focus isn’t just on her own growth but on building a community where creatives of all kinds—especially those underrepresented—can thrive and have opportunities to succeed.

30:01 - 35:00: We take a moment to reflect on the challenges and opportunities of personal healing and growth. Georgette shares how her body and mind have guided her through this journey, especially when it comes to healing and pivoting in her career.

35:01 - 40:00: In the final moments of this conversation, Georgette and our host touch on how important it is to own your own journey, be willing to pivot when necessary, and stay aligned with what feels right for you, no matter the pressure from outside sources. Georgette leaves us with the powerful reminder to keep showing up for ourselves, regardless of how the world tries to define us.

Follow Georgette on IG: @GeorgettePierre

Don’t forget to rate and subscribe to Growing Pains for more inspiring stories and creative wisdom. Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it, and remember: Anything you do today, do it with love.

In this empowering episode of Growing Pains, host Bria sits down with Ashley Speaks, an inspiring author, speaker, and entrepreneur, to discuss her personal journey of growth, healing, and aligning with purpose. From navigating identity crises to finding strength in vulnerability, Ashley opens up about her path to self-discovery and shares the impactful lessons she’s learned along the way. This episode dives deep into the importance of surrendering to God's will and walking in obedience, even when life doesn’t seem to make sense.

[00:00 - 05:00] Introduction & Journey to Purpose
Ashley reflects on her experiences as a speaker and author and how her personal journey led her to create impactful spaces for women. She discusses the importance of walking in purpose and understanding the deep impact that small, intentional actions can have on others.

[05:01 - 10:00] The Hidden Impact of Sharing Our Stories
Ashley shares a touching story about an older woman who was impacted by one of her books, highlighting the power of seemingly small moments of connection. She discusses how we often don’t know the true impact of our work and how lives are being changed through our obedience to God's call. This section encourages listeners to stay focused on their purpose even when the outcome is unseen.

[10:01 - 15:00] Aligning with God’s Purpose & Following Obedience
Ashley emphasizes the importance of aligning with God’s plan and how obedience unlocks the doors to our destiny. She discusses how faith is the currency of the Kingdom and how obedience to God's will is the key to unlocking blessings. Listeners are reminded that walking in purpose requires consistency and trust, even when we don’t see the full picture.

[15:01 - 20:00] The Power of Choosing Faith Over Fear
The conversation takes a turn toward the internal battles many of us face, including the temptation to give in to fear and negativity. Ashley speaks about her own struggle with suicidal thoughts during her teenage years, revealing how divine intervention saved her life. She shares how this pivotal moment shaped her purpose and dedication to helping others overcome their own struggles with identity and mental health.

[20:01 - 25:00] Creating Safe Spaces for Women: Girl Code Collective
Ashley discusses the founding of Girl Code Collective, a community she created to support women through vulnerability, authenticity, and growth. She shares how it all started with a powerful message she gave at a conference, which later turned into a safe space for women to connect, heal, and grow. The focus of Girl Code Collective is to inspire women to take off the mask and step into their full potential.

[25:01 - 30:00] Legacy & Giving Women Permission to Shine
Ashley reveals what legacy she wants to leave behind — a legacy that tells women they are enough, worthy, and capable of achieving everything God has called them to. She encourages listeners to step into their purpose, embrace their authentic selves, and not apologize for being great. She reminds us that we all have unique gifts that are meant to be shared with the world.

[30:01 - 35:00] The Importance of Gratitude & Living Authentically
The conversation concludes with a powerful reminder about the importance of gratitude. Ashley talks about the shift in her perspective after losing a close family member and how it has pushed her to make the most of every day. She urges listeners to embrace the small miracles of life and to never take for granted the things we so often overlook. Gratitude, she says, leads to abundance and a deeper connection with purpose.

Ashley Speaks on Instagram: @IamAshleySpeaks

Connect with Us:

• Subscribe, rate, and review Growing Pains to show your support!
• Follow us on @growingpains444 for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more!

In this deeply insightful episode of Growing Pains, host Bria is joined by Dr. DaJaneil McCree, a dedicated public health leader and mentor, to discuss navigating life’s pressures, the power of faith, and the importance of community. Dr. McCree shares her personal journey of faith, growth, and empowering Black women through mentorship and leadership. Tune in for an uplifting conversation filled with wisdom, personal stories, and reflections on creating lasting change.

[0:00] Introduction: Building Community and Trust: Bria highlights Dr. McCree’s impressive work in public health and mentorship. They discuss the importance of community support in navigating both personal and professional challenges, setting the tone for an empowering conversation.

[3:35] Faith and Purpose: Trusting God's Timing: Dr. McCree dives into her spiritual journey, sharing how her faith has shaped her life and career. She reflects on the importance of trusting God’s timing and how her relationship with God gave her strength during difficult moments, particularly after moving to a new state and stepping into a new phase of her life. She emphasizes that faith isn't about being perfect but about showing up authentically and trusting the process.

[12:50] Mentorship and Safe Spaces for Black Women: In this segment, Dr. McCree discusses the critical need for safe spaces and mentorship for Black women. She highlights her work in offering mentorship and guidance, stressing the importance of uplifting and supporting one another. Whether it’s in professional spaces or personal growth, Dr. McCree emphasizes how mentorship can change lives and help women achieve their goals.

[18:00] A Personal Story of Self-Discovery: Dr. McCree opens up about her personal journey of self-discovery, including her decision to stop drinking. She recalls the challenges of returning to her hometown for the holidays, where old habits and temptations could have derailed her growth. She shares how she chose peace and aligned herself with her new sense of purpose, highlighting the sacrifices that come with personal transformation.

[24:40] Discernment and Living with Intent: The conversation shifts to the power of discernment in making life and career decisions. Dr. McCree talks about the guidance she has received through prayer and reflection, allowing her to pursue meaningful work aligned with her values. She discusses how living intentionally has allowed her to focus on what truly matters and how listeners can embrace discernment in their own lives.

[34:10] Mentorship and Empowering Black Women: Dr. McCree shares exciting details about her upcoming podcast, mentorship services, and workshops designed to empower Black women. She talks about how her projects aim to provide the tools and resources needed to navigate life’s challenges, with a focus on career success, personal growth, and building strong support networks. Her work continues to foster change by connecting women with mentors who can offer invaluable guidance.

[42:00] Closing Thoughts: "We All We Got": As the episode nears its conclusion, Dr. McCree offers final words of wisdom to the audience. She reflects on the role of community, faith, and mentorship in her life and leaves the listeners with a powerful reminder: “We all we got.” She encourages everyone to invest in themselves, seek out mentorship, and continue showing up for each other, especially within their own communities.

Follow Dr. DaJaneil McCree
Stay connected with Dr. McCree and learn more about her work by following her on Instagram: @blackgirls_cantalk.