2026 doesn’t need another version of you — it needs the most honest one.

In this opening episode of Season 5 of Knowing is Knowing, I reflect on the lessons that changed how I move, think, and choose. This episode isn’t about setting unrealistic goals or chasing perfection. It’s about clarity, discernment, and entering the new year with intention instead of pressure.

We talk about:

• Letting go of who you had to be to survive
• Why peace often feels unfamiliar at first
• Moving with boundaries instead of explanations
• Trusting what you already know about yourself

If you’re entering 2026 feeling reflective, grounded, or in between versions of yourself, this conversation is for you.

When you know… you move different.

In this episode of Knowing is Knowing, I sit down with Monique A. J. Smith, a higher education leadership strategist, athletics administrator, published author, and podcast host dedicated to leadership, mental wellness, and helping others navigate barriers with resilience and clarity. linkedin.com

We talk about what it means to lead from purpose, advocate for wellbeing in competitive environments, and grow through both challenge and opportunity. Monique shares her insights on mental performance, self-worth, and how leaders can shape supportive spaces in sports, education, and life. This conversation is for anyone who wants to lead with integrity, champion wellbeing, and trust the process of becoming their best self.

🔗 Connect with Monique on Instagram to follow her work and message: @seedsofempowerment 👉 https://www.instagram.com/seedsofempowerment/ Instagram

In this episode of Knowing is Knowing, I sit down with Amber Isenberg, a coach and creator behind The Little Things Coaching. Our conversation centers on self-awareness, emotional growth, and how intentional shifts—no matter how small—can lead to meaningful change in our lives and relationships.

Amber shares insights on healing patterns, understanding yourself more deeply, and learning how to show up with clarity and intention. We explore how personal growth isn’t always about big breakthroughs, but about consistently honoring the small moments that shape who we become.

🔗 Learn more about Amber and her work on Instagram: @the.little.things.coaching 👉 https://www.instagram.com/the.little.things.coaching/

In this episode of Knowing is Knowing, I sit down with Wendy Aris to talk about the importance of being informed, empowered, and vocal within the health care system. Our conversation centers on what it truly means to advocate for yourself and others—especially when navigating systems that can feel overwhelming, dismissive, or inaccessible.

Wendy shares insights on self-advocacy, health awareness, and the responsibility we have to ask questions, seek clarity, and stand firm in our care. This episode highlights the connection between health, voice, and agency, reminding us that advocacy is not confrontation—it’s protection.

🔗 Learn more about Wendy’s work and advocacy on Instagram: @berkshirehalleppingpress 👉 https://www.instagram.com/berkshirehalleppingpress/

In this episode of Knowing is Knowing, Rashad chats with Gia Kirk (@giadesire_), a model and creative navigating the realities behind social media glamour — from rejection emails and daily grind to balancing grad school and work with chasing dreams. Gia opens up about resilience, redefining success, and the courage it takes to show both the shine and the struggle in pursuing your passions.

🔗 Find Gia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giadesire_/ instagram.com

In this episode of Knowing is Knowing, I sit down with Tesuana Smith, an author, motivational voice, and creative whose work centers truth, healing, and self-expression. We talk about the journey of becoming an author, the courage it takes to tell your story out loud, and how writing can be both freeing and transformative.

Tesuana shares insights on purpose, vulnerability, and what it means to trust your voice—especially when your story isn’t neat or comfortable. This conversation is for anyone navigating growth, creativity, and learning how to fully own who they are.

To learn more about Tesuana and her work, follow her on Instagram: @tesuanamore 👉 https://www.instagram.com/tesuanamore/

In this episode of Knowing is Knowing, Rashad sits down with DaJonese Turner, a trauma-informed therapist and wellness professional, to talk about healing, emotional safety, and what it really means to do the inner work. DaJonese shares insight on navigating trauma, life transitions, and relationships with intention — reminding us that growth isn’t linear, but it is possible. This conversation is grounding, affirming, and deeply human.

🔗 Find DaJonese Turner: Psychology Today Therapist Profile: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/dajonese-turner-matteson-il/1127639

In this episode, Rashad Young dives into the misunderstood reality of today’s teens. We often label Gen Z as distracted or lazy, but what if their behavior is really a response to constant overstimulation, pressure, and emotional overload?

Rashad breaks down what he sees every day as a counselor: students navigating anxiety, digital noise, identity struggles, academic expectations, family dynamics, and the weight of always being “on.” Through real-world examples and a grounded mental-health lens, this episode challenges listeners to look deeper.

In this conversation we explore:

• Why “lazy” is often a misread signal for burnout
• The mental health effects of overstimulation
• How the digital divide and digital overload affect students
• What Gen Z actually needs from caring adults
• How educators and parents can build meaningful, supportive connections

This is an honest, reflective, and necessary dialogue for anyone working with or raising Gen Z youth.