Black. Girl. Iowa. – Details, episodes & analysis

In this conversation, Councilwoman Renee Hardman discusses her journey to Iowa and her involvement in the community. She emphasizes the importance of civic engagement and the need for representation in politics. Hardman also shares her passion for serving marginalized communities and highlights the work she does as the CEO of Lutheran Services of Iowa. 

Learn More about LSI - www.lsiiowa.org

Want More Black. Girl. Iowa.?

Website: www.blackgirliowa.com

Instagram: @black.girl.iowa

FAVORITE Etsy Shop - BlackGirlIowaShop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/BlackGirlIowaShop?ref=seller-platform-mcnav

***The shop will reopen for pre-orders in November! Stay turned for more details!

In this episode of the podcast, Emili discusses the significance of journaling in her life, emphasizing its therapeutic benefits and the importance of self-reflection. She shares personal anecdotes about her journaling journey, the tools she uses, and practical tips for those looking to start journaling. She encourages listeners to find their unique style and make journaling a part of their daily routine, highlighting that it can be a powerful tool for mental health and creativity.

From the Episode…

Journaling for Emotional Wellness from University of Rochester-New York: Medical Center https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentID=4552&ContentTypeID=1

Journal Prompt Book Recommendations

Write & Wreck - https://www.fivebelow.com/products/write-and-wreck-journal

Five-Year Journal - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JR3DRDT?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1

The Story of My Life - https://www.target.com/p/the-story-of-my-life-activity-journal-piccadilly/-/A-53006608#lnk=sametab

3000 Questions About Me - https://www.target.com/p/3000-questions-about-me-activity-journal-piccadilly/-/A-53005917#lnk=sametab

My Life in Sketches - https://www.walmart.com/ip/Piccadilly-My-Life-in-Sketches-Guided-Sketch-Journal-7-3-x-9-7-204-Pages-Black/967438842

YouTube Video - @emili.thecreative

How Many is Too Many? My Notebook Collection - https://youtu.be/16qbgnBu9i0

Want More Black. Girl. Iowa.?

Website: www.blackgirliowa.com

Instagram: @black.girl.iowa

FAVORITE Etsy Shop - BlackGirlIowaShop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/BlackGirlIowaShop?ref=seller-platform-mcnav

***The shop will reopen for pre-orders in November! Stay turned for more details!

In this week’s episode, Emili chat with April Finley, a Tuskegee University graduate living and working in Iowa. April shares her college experience at an HBCU and the challenges of finding community while working at a predominantly white institution (PWI). She also discusses her move to Iowa with her husband, who is pursuing a PhD in organic chemistry, the similarities she sees between the Black communities in Birmingham and Ames, and the importance of building lifelong connections and networks. 

April also shares the two things that will always be near and dear to her heart: founding the Jubilee Gospel Choir at Iowa State University and being a mother to her daughter, Azari Joy. She expresses her gratitude for the support she has received and encourages others to support the choir and her journey. April's story showcases the importance of historical and cultural education and the impact it can have on individuals.

Follow April on Instagram @_aprilfresh

Support the Iowa State Jubilee Choir on Instagram @jubileegospel_isu

Support the Organization here: https://www.stuorg.iastate.edu/3225

Attend the Black Women 4 Healthy Living Conference on Saturday, August 17th at Grand View University!!!

Register Here: https://bw4hl.org/conference/

Want more Black. Girl. Iowa.?

Instagram: @black.girl.iowa

Website: www.blackgirliowa.com

In this episode, Emili interviews McKenzie Kerry, Miss Iowa-USA 2024, who will be representing Iowa at the Miss USA Pageant. They discuss McKenzie's journey into pageantry, her decision to move to Iowa, and her passion for leadership development and youth empowerment.

McKenzie shares her excitement about representing Iowa on a national stage and the activities leading up to the pageant.

Listeners are encouraged to follow McKenzie on Instagram and Facebook and watch the Miss USA competition on Sunday, August 4th on the CW!

Follow McKenzie Kerry, Miss Iowa-USA

Instagram:

@mckenziearianakerry

@missiausa

Want more Black. Girl. Iowa.?

Website: www.blackgirliowa.com

Instagram: @blackgirliowa

Dr. Keyah Levy, the inaugural vice president for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Simpson College, shares her experiences growing up in Waterloo, Iowa, and her involvement in the community. She discusses the importance of representation and being a positive role model for young Black girls. Dr. Levy also talks about her experience as a Black student at the University of Iowa, highlighting the sense of community and support she found there.  The conversation then shifts to the current attack on DEI initiatives and the need for proactive measures to address equity and inclusion at institutions. Dr. Levy discusses her role and the initiatives she has implemented to promote diversity and inclusion on campus. She shares her three-year plan, which includes assessing the current state of DEI, working with external organizations for guidance, and implementing new practices in hiring. Dr. Levy highlights the importance of creating a diverse and inclusive campus culture and the impact it has on students.  Want more Black. Girl. Iowa.? Website: www.blackgirliowa.com Instagram: @blackgirliowa

In this episode, Emili discusses two topics: divorce and dating.

She shares her journey of filing for divorce, the challenges she faced, and the lessons she learned. Then, delves into the world of dating, highlighting the issues of fetishization, poor communication, and toxic masculinity. Emili emphasizes the importance of self-love, journaling, and seeking support from friends and family while navigating single life.

Want more Black. Girl. Iowa.?

Website: www.blackgirliowa.com

Instagram: @blackgirliowa

In this conversation, Emili and Erika discuss their personal experiences growing up in Iowa and how it has shaped their relationship with money.  Erika shares her journey from a financially challenging childhood to becoming a project manager in the finance industry. She also emphasize the importance of understanding one's relationship with money and living within one's means. The conversation provides practical tips and insights for listeners of all ages. Want more Black. Girl. Iowa.? Website: www.blackgirliowa.com Instagram: @blackgirliowa

In this week’s episode, Emili chats with the Trumbo sisters, Dawniece and Dionne, and their shared experience growing up in Des Moines, Iowa. They discuss the racism they faced in their neighborhood and how their strong sense of self-pride helped them navigate those challenges. The sisters also talk about their academic excellence and the motivation they found in each other. 

They also discuss the challenges of being apart but staying connected, the importance of family, and a heartfelt appreciation for each other and their friendship.

Want more Black. Girl. Iowa.?

Website: www.blackgirliowa.com

Instagram: @blackgirliowa

BONUS EPISODE!!!

Abigaille Batu-Tiako, the NEW Miss Iowa, returns to the show to discuss her win and what she has been doing since being crowned.

The conversation highlights the excitement and joy surrounding her historic win as a Black woman representing Iowa in the Miss America pageant. The episode ends with a discussion about the importance of embracing one's authentic self and taking up space.

Follow Miss Iowa:

Instagram: @missamericaia

Book Miss Iowa: Request an Appearance — Miss Iowa Scholarship Program Want more Black. Girl. Iowa.?

Website: www.blackgirliowa.com

Instagram: @blackgirliowa

In this conversation, Emili chats with Breanne Ward, a licensed mental health counselor and founder of ForWard Consulting LLC. They discuss Breanne's journey with mental health and her work in the field. They also touch on the unique experiences of being a Black woman in Iowa and the impact of the strong Black woman stereotype. 

In this conversation, Breanne discusses the detrimental effects of trying to be the fixer and helper for everyone, particularly for Black women. She emphasizes the importance of Black women prioritizing their own well-being and seeking help when needed. Breanne also addresses the stigma surrounding mental health in the Black community and encourages individuals to have open conversations, explore their reasons for seeking therapy, and schedule free consultations to find the right therapist. 

Follow Breanne on Social Media!

Website: www.moveforward2day

Instagram: @moveforward2day

Facebook: ForWard Thinking, LLC

Want more Black. Girl. Iowa.?

Website: www.blackgirliowa.com

Instagram: @blackgirliowa