The Real Connect is where people talk honestly about life. Hosted by Tamika Carlton, guests share real stories about connection, healing, and being human without pretending.
Right now, too many relationships feel transactional. People don’t know how to date, build real friendships, or tell the truth anymore. We look connected, but we’re lonely. This podcast slows things down and brings the focus back to real bonds, real conversation, and showing up for each other.
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Données mises à jour le 04/07/2026
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How Nayana Ferguson Built Anteel Tequila as the First Black Woman in the Tequila Industry (S2, Ep 14)
Saison 2 · Épisode 14
mercredi 28 janvier 2026 • Durée 52:53
This is for anyone who’s been knocked down by life and decided not just to survive, but to build something meaningful on the other side.
In this episode of The Real Connect Podcast, Tamika Carlton sits down with Nayana (Nay) Ferguson, entrepreneur, national speaker, and the first Black woman co-owner/operator of a tequila brand, Anteel Tequila, for a conversation that’s equal parts hilarious, inspiring, and deeply human.
Nay shares why she moved from Detroit to Atlanta, how Atlanta embraced her vision (including receiving a City of Atlanta proclamation just two weeks after arriving), and how one “couch conversation” turned into a tequila brand that disrupted the industry. The heartbeat of this episode is Nay’s faith in herself—something she traces all the way back to a childhood house fire. That moment became a lifelong anchor.
What You Will Hear About:
1. The childhood fire story that shaped Nay’s identity and faith in herself.
2. Surviving pancreatic cancer and breast cancer, and the mindset that carried her through.
3. The “couch conversation” that sparked Anteel Tequila.
4. Building a business with your spouse.
5. What it means to be a pioneer in the industry and why legacy matters.
🔗 Watch, subscribe, and share this episode if you care about resilience, entrepreneurship, and the kind of connection that reminds you: you’re still here for a reason.
What Self-Care and Burnout Really Mean for Women with Lakila Bowden (S2, E13)
Saison 2 · Épisode 13
mercredi 21 janvier 2026 • Durée 39:48
What does self-care look like when you’re building a career, building a family… and life is still lifing?
In this episode of The Real Connect Podcast, Tamika Carlton sits down with Atlanta powerhouse Lakila Bowden, COO, keynote speaker, and co-founder of Isee Technologies, for a fearless and fruitful conversation.
Lakila breaks down why career success doesn’t have to cost you your health, what alignment really looks like in real life (not just as a buzzword), and how women can give themselves permission to prioritize themselves without guilt.
Lakila also shares her story about leaving corporate on her own terms, building a business with her sister Camille (who is blind and absolutely unstoppable), and navigating one of life’s most emotionally complex seasons with intention, joy, and self-preservation.
This episode is for the woman who’s tired of pouring from an empty cup and ready to build a life that actually feels good.
What You Will Hear About:
1. Why weekends off and real rest are a non-negotiable (and how Tamika protects her peace).
2. The difference between being a “cultural fit” vs. a cultural addition in corporate spaces.
3. What “alignment” actually looks like and how to strengthen your intuition as a decision-making muscle.
4. How Lakila built a company with her sister Camille and why accessibility is about capability, not limitation.
Top Chef Season 22 Winner Tristen Epps on Food as Culture and Connection (S2, Ep 12)
Saison 2 · Épisode 12
mercredi 14 janvier 2026 • Durée 54:50
This is for anyone who’s ever eaten something so good it felt like a memory and a hug at the same time because food isn’t just food, it’s connection.
In this episode of The Real Connect Podcast, Tamika Carlton sits down with Top Chef Season 22 winner and Afro-Caribbean chef Tristen Epps for a conversation that goes way beyond the show. Tristen shares one of the most powerful compliments a chef can receive: not “this is delicious,” but “I’ve never felt so seen eating your food.” Tristen opens up about growing up as a military kid, moving 18 times, and learning how to adapt to new cultures across the U.S., Japan, the Philippines, Guam, and beyond. This conversation is equal parts thoughtful, funny, and grounding. Tristen breaks down the four reasons he cooks, why nostalgia and culture matter, what post-Top Chef life has been like, and how food can bridge people across backgrounds. This is a real one about connection, identity, culture, and the power of being seen.
What You Will Hear About:
1. Why the greatest compliment is “I’ve never felt so seen eating your food.”
2. How Tristen’s Afro-Caribbean roots and global travel shaped his cooking.
3. The four reasons he cooks: deliciousness, nostalgia, the “aha” moment, and feeling seen.
4. What Tristen learned from living in Japan, the Philippines, and across the U.S.
5. How culture impacts belonging, friendship, and the way we connect.
6. Why people struggle to connect in new environments and how to adapt without losing yourself.
How Atlanta Closing Attorney Tiffani Hawes Built Real Connection and Clients Through Social Media (S2, Ep 11)
Saison 2 · Épisode 10
mercredi 7 janvier 2026 • Durée 55:29
If you are building something, feeling tired, or trying to find your lane without pretending to be someone else, this episode will hit.
In this episode of The Real Connect Podcast, Tamika Carlton sits down with Atlanta real estate closing attorney and TV personality (Ladies Who List), Tiffani Hawes, to talk about what it really takes to build a respected business in an industry that was not designed with you in mind. Tiffani opens up about walking into brokerages as the “little old Black girl” asking for a chance, realizing she did not understand how business was actually won, and then finding her edge through social media by simply being real.
They also talk about the seasons of entrepreneurship, why burnout is often part of season one, and how relationships, consistency, and honesty can become the best strategy for success.
This conversation is equal parts funny, practical, and grounding. Tiffani breaks down why you cannot outsource clarity, how she built a team that actually stays, what it means to lead without control, and how to keep your marriage and family strong while still going after what is yours.
What You Will Hear About:
1. Breaking into a male-dominated industry and learning the real game
2. How Tiffani used social media to build trust, visibility, and consistent referrals
3. The truth about entrepreneurship seasons, burnout, and what the “grind” really looks like
4. Why you cannot hire help until you understand your own problems
5. Leadership, loyalty, and how she keeps long-term employees without micromanaging
6. Marriage, motherhood, and raising self-sufficient kids while building a business
Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test Jovon Q. Quarles on Quitting, Love & Real Connection (S2, Ep 10)
Saison 2 · Épisode 9
mercredi 17 décembre 2025 • Durée 01:02:50
Real connection is about choosing growth, accountability, and peace, even when quitting feels easier.
In this episode of The Real Connect Podcast, Tamika Carlton sits down with Jovon “Q” Quarles. A retired Navy SEAL, public speaker, and cast member on Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test for a real conversation about love, leadership, trauma, and the kind of resilience you only earn.
Jovon opens up about finding peace in his relationship with his fiancée. He shares the truth about growing up with a mother struggling with addiction, being raised by a village led by his grandmother, and how that upbringing shaped his trust, dating patterns, and identity as a man.
They also get into the moment Jovon quit during SEAL training. Why he rang the bell, how regret hit instantly, and what it took to come back and graduate not only as a SEAL, but as Honor Graduate—twice. Tamika and Jovon discuss the difference between motivation and inspiration, why humility is required to evolve, and how vulnerability becomes strength when your life is on the line.
What You Will Hear About:
1. Why men often “know she’s the one”
2. How your upbringing can shape attachment, trust, and your life in relationships
3. The moment Jovon quit during Hell Week and what it taught him about regret and resilience
4. What Hell Week is really like (and why most people still have more in the tank than they think)
5. The difference between motivation and inspiration, and how to build a vision that carries you
6. Why humility is the entry point to becoming a better leader (and why celebrities struggle with it on Special Forces)
Ashley Silva Gets Real About Love & Marriage DC + Life Off Camera (S2 Ep 9)
Saison 2 · Épisode 9
mercredi 10 décembre 2025 • Durée 58:37
This is for anyone who has ever been labeled, judged, or misunderstood and still had to show up like nothing was wrong.
In this episode of The Real Connect Podcast, Tamika Carlton sits down with TV personality, writer, and entrepreneur Ashley Silva from OWN’s Love & Marriage: DC. Ashley opens up about growing up in Baltimore near the world of The Wire, becoming a young wife and mom, and what really happens behind the scenes of reality TV when the cameras go down and the comments start rolling in.
She shares candidly about anxiety, suffering in silence, and how writing her book Do That Sht* helped her face her own story. Ashley and Tamika talk about friendship breakups, being labeled “mean” for telling the truth, navigating marriage when your partner is always working, and why so many women lose themselves in the roles they play for everyone else. They also dive into Ashley’s dreams of acting, her love of true crime, and building a beauty brand with her daughter.
What You Will Hear About:
1. Growing up in West Baltimore
2. The cost of being “the honest one” on camera and online
3. Mental health, insomnia, and suffering in silence
4. The story behind Ashley’s book Do That Sht* and what she hopes readers feel
5. Friendship, loyalty, and why she does not play with the word “friend”
6. Big dreams, acting classes, and what is next for Ashley
🔗 Watch, subscribe, and share this episode if you have ever felt misunderstood, mislabeled, or tired of pretending. This one is for the people who are finally ready to be who they really are.
How HARO Helps You Stand Out - PR Tips That Connect With Brett Farmiloe (S2 Ep 8)
Saison 2 · Épisode 8
mercredi 3 décembre 2025 • Durée 37:17
Real connection is still the secret to real visibility, especially in a more AI-obsessed world.In this episode of The Real Connect Podcast, Tamika Carlton sits down with Brett Farmiloe, CEO of Help a Reporter Out (HARO) and Featured.com, to talk about relationships, PR, and the power of simple conversations. Brett shares how HARO works behind the scenes, why connection accelerates every startup, and how he balances being a founder, husband, and dad of three while leading a team.They get into the realities of AI-generated pitches, what journalists actually want from sources, and how to use tools like HARO and Featured without losing your voice. Brett also talks about the RV road trip that shaped his whole philosophy on business, why he still believes in walking meetings, and how being the “dumbest person in the room” is his favorite advantage.What You Will Hear About:1. How Help a Reporter Out (HARO) really works for journalists and sources2. The role of authentic connection in PR, thought leadership, and startup life3. The percentage of AI pitches that are AI-generated and what that means for trust4. What makes a great pitch 5. How Brett manages his stressors🔗 Watch, subscribe, and share this episode if it reminded you that relationships still sit at the center of every opportunity.Connect with Brett at Help a Reporter Out: https://www.helpareporter.com or at Featured: https://www.featured.com or on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettfarmiloe/Connect with Tamika on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tamika_carltonjbpJoin The Connect—a free weekly newsletter with real insights on everything relationships! https://www.tamikacarlton.com/newsletterVisit Tamika's: https://www.tamikacarlton.com to stay connected.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:36 Balancing Family and Career01:44 Journey to Arizona and Family Life02:22 Introduction to Help A Reporter Out (HARO)04:11 Reviving HARO: Challenges and Successes07:08 The Importance of Connections11:09 AI in Journalism and HARO16:56 Future of AI and Customer Insights19:25 The Power of HARO: Connecting with Anyone19:58 Behind the Scenes: Query Approval Process21:15 Optimal Timing for Query Submission23:40 Handling Stress as a Founder26:15 Future Prospects for HARO27:49 The Shift in Media and Thought Leadership32:40 Rapid Fire Questions with Brett35:21 Conclusion and Contact Information#TheRealConnectPodcast #TamikaCarlton #HelpAReporterOut #HARO #PRTips #MediaPitching #Podcasting #ThoughtLeadership
Law & Order’s Danielle Moné Truitt on Acting with Purpose & Staying True to Yourself (S2 Ep 7)
Saison 1 · Épisode 7
mercredi 19 novembre 2025 • Durée 47:32
Real connection starts with presence—on stage, on screen, and in life.
In this episode of The Real Connect Podcast, Tamika Carlton sits down with actor and producer Danielle Moné Truitt, best known for her role as Sgt. Ayanna Bell on Law & Order: Organized Crime. From her early years performing in theatre to leading one of TV’s biggest franchises, Danielle shares how empathy, discipline, and authentic connection have shaped every part of her journey.
She opens up about the lessons theatre taught her about resilience, how she stays grounded through motherhood and anxiety, and what it means to advocate for yourself as a Black woman in entertainment. Danielle also reflects on the emotional truth behind her performances, the energy exchange between actors and audiences, and the community that keeps her centered when fame quiets down.
What You’ll Hear About:
1. How theatre training builds emotional depth and confidence
2. Why empathy and breathwork are the foundation of powerful acting
3. The importance of self-advocacy and representation behind the scenes
4. How journaling, gratitude, and connection keep you grounded
5. The role of community in navigating success, grief, and growth
6. Laundry, the film Danielle executive-produced
🔗 Watch, subscribe, and share this episode if it reminded you why connection always matters most.
Connect with Danielle Monét Truitt on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daniellemonetruitt
How To Find Yourself With Rachel Kennedy and Tamika Carlton (S2 Ep 6)
Saison 2 · Épisode 6
mercredi 12 novembre 2025 • Durée 51:42
Some people stay surface level. Others help you see yourself more clearly.In this episode of The Real Connect Podcast, Tamika Carlton sits down with Rachel Leonard Kennedy, author, entrepreneur, and relationship builder with over 15 years of experience helping people turn small talk into meaningful opportunities. Together, they unpack what it really means to find your tribe, protect your energy, and stay open to connection even after loss.Rachel shares how travel, grief, and storytelling have shaped her sense of purpose. From her early success as a blogger to her work empowering women to communicate with confidence, she’s built a career around helping others rediscover who they are and how to build connections that last.What You’ll Learn:1. Why protecting your energy doesn’t mean isolating yourself2. How travel and self-reflection help you reconnect with your identity3. The link between confidence, storytelling, and belonging4. How to build a supportive community wherever you are🔗 Watch, subscribe, and leave a comment if this spoke to you!🎧 Stay Connected:Follow Tamika on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tamika_carltonjbpJoin The Connect—a free weekly newsletter with real insights on everything relationships! https://www.tamikacarlton.com/newsletterVisit Tamika's: https://www.tamikacarlton.com to stay connected.Connect with Rachel Leonard Kennedy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekennedycurate/Learn more about Rachel by visiting her website: https://www.authorrachelkennedy.com00:00 Introduction: The Impact of Isolation00:24 Welcome to the Road Connect Podcast00:26 Guest Introduction: Rachel Kennedy01:13 From Marketing to Building Connections04:00 The Importance of Speaking Out09:45 Finding Yourself and Attracting Your Tribe11:47 The Value of Travel and New Experiences15:23 Settling in Chattanooga21:12 Coping with Loss and Moving Forward26:40 Self-Reflection and Personal Growth27:16 Evaluating Past Relationships28:34 Focusing on the Positive33:49 The Importance of Support Systems35:39 Building Connections in a New City37:03 Hosting Memorable Events41:13 Practical Advice for Newcomers43:35 Maintaining Motivation and Emotional Health46:12 Rapid-Fire Questions and Fun Facts49:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Real vs. Fake Connections and How To Tell The Difference with Portia James and Tamika Carlton (S2 Ep 5)
Saison 2 · Épisode 5
mercredi 5 novembre 2025 • Durée 26:03
Some relationships add to your life. Others drain it.
In this episode of The Real Connect Podcast, Tamika Carlton sits down with Portia James for a conversation that goes beyond surface-level talk. They unpack what it actually means to recognize real vs. fake connections through the lens of personal experience, self-awareness, and the energy people bring into your life.
They get honest about friendships that feel forced, business relationships that lack integrity, and the quiet ways people show you who they are.
Here’s what you’ll walk away with:
1. A clearer sense of what intention really looks like in close relationships
2. Signs you’re expending too much emotional labor and how to step back
3. How to create space for connection without abandoning your own needs
This isn’t about cutting people off for sport. It’s about choosing peace over performance and learning how to stay rooted in your values, even when the connection feels blurry.
Chime in below—what’s one lesson you’ve learned about protecting your energy?
🔗 Watch, subscribe, and leave a comment if this spoke to you!
🎧 Stay Connected:
Follow Tamika on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tamika_carltonjbp
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5. Leaving the corporate world at 37 to create financial freedom and moving without fear.
6. The truth about women, burnout, and self-care guilt.
7. Love, partnership, and why her husband is genuinely part of her self-care.
8. Lakila's book: The Sho Nuff Principle: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-shonuff-principle-lakila-bowden/1148372350
🔗 Watch, subscribe, and share this episode if you care about self-care, burnout prevention, women’s wellness, alignment, and the kind of connection that feels like fuzzy socks.
Take the Guilt Detox Quiz: https://app.agolix.com/assessment/28648
Connect with Lakila Bowden on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lakilaj/
Follow Lakila on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-lakila-bowden-mba-0463272/
🔗 Watch, subscribe, and share this episode if you are trying to build something real, stay consistent, and still feel like yourself while doing it. This one is for the people who are tired of pretending and ready to lead with truth.
Connect with Tiffani Hawes on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiffanihawes_closingattorney or visit her website: https://thehaweslawfirm.com/
Connect with Tamika on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tamika_carltonjbp.
Join The Connect—a free weekly newsletter with real insights on everything relationships! https://www.tamikacarlton.com/newsletter
Visit Tamika's website: https://www.tamikacarlton.com to stay connected.
00:00 Discovering the Power of Social Media
01:19 Navigating the Real Estate Industry
01:40 Life in Atlanta and Personal Background
03:34 Building a Dream Home
08:03 Journey to Becoming a Lawyer
12:04 Entrepreneurship and Business Growth
15:50 Leadership and Team Management
24:52 The Importance of Relationships in Real Estate
