In this calm, 15-minute conversation, Shilz and Djenys speak plainly about suicide—how it touches real people, families, and communities, and why the topic is so often silenced in Black households. This is not a headline; it’s everyday life. Shilz reflects on losses close to home and the unanswered questions they leave behind. Together, the hosts unpick the idea that suicide equals weakness, and centre what it more often signals: unmanaged pain and untreated mental-health struggles.
They explore why “just pray about it” can’t replace open dialogue, therapy, or medical care—and how faith and professional support can sit side by side. The episode also walks through risk factors and warning signs to notice with care:
Mental-health conditions (depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma)
Prolonged stress (relationship breakdown, bullying, financial strain)
Substance misuse and chronic physical pain
Historical/environmental factors (family history, abuse, exposure to suicide)
The heart of the message is practical and compassionate: many people don’t want to die—they want the pain to stop. Check in, listen beyond “I’m fine,” and help normalise getting support.
If this conversation meets you where you are, follow the podcast on Spotify/Apple, rate the episode, and share it with someone who might need gentler language today.
Content note & support
This episode discusses suicide. If you are thinking about suicide or worried you might act on thoughts of self-harm, seek immediate help. In the UK:
Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7)
NHS: 111 (urgent care)
Shout: text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7 text support)
If you’re outside the UK, please contact your local emergency number or a crisis hotline in your country. You are not alone.
This week, Shilz and Djenys take “power,” “pride,” and “resilience” off the poster and place them back into everyday life—how Black women carry them in voices, choices, and community. Framed by the UK Black History Month theme Standing firm in Power and Pride, the conversation moves from principle to practice: influence over dominance, representation that opens doors, and the quiet courage it takes to keep showing up.
Djenys reflects on power as influence—using dialogue to teach, mentor, and create fair conversations. Shilz traces a 15-year career journey from being one of the few in the room to seeing more leaders of colour, naming the women and allies who opened doors along the way. Pride becomes personal and generational—Djenys speaks to her Congolese roots, passing confidence and culture to her children. And resilience anchors the hour: parents and grandparents who migrated, worked multiple jobs, learned new languages, and still built foundations their families now stand on.
Together they hold a hopeful tension: progress worth celebrating, responsibility in how we use power, and a commitment to keep widening the circle. This episode feels like a love letter to the past—and a clear challenge to the present.
In this episode, we explore
Power as influence, not control — and how CML uses conversation to shape culture
Representation, sponsorship, and the doors opened by Black women and allies
Pride as heritage, language, music, and confidence passed to the next generation
Resilience beyond survival: building, leading, and creating opportunity for others
Using positions of power responsibly, with community in mind
Why Black History Month matters—and why the work continues all year
If this meets you where you are, follow the podcast on Spotify/Apple, rate the episode, and share it with someone who would find strength in it.
Season 7 keeps rolling with a lighter, heart-warming catch-up. Shilz and Djenys pause the heavy to reconnect—life, love, and the summer that just was. Djenys steps into her 40s with gratitude after a dinner filled with harmony and laughter; she shares candidly about falling in and out of love, and why she’s keeping something new quiet for now. Shilz chooses privacy around dating, but opens up about a restorative six-week break—Houston to Nigeria to Ibiza (and Beyoncé)—and the decision to calendar real rest every year. Together they agree: when life gives you a good season, lean in.
The conversation holds tenderness and perspective. Djenys looks back at a difficult patch and is surprised by how much brighter she feels now—smiling, laughing, thankful. The pair then reflect on recent events: reactions to political violence in the U.S.; protests in Britain, including anti-immigration rhetoric and clashes; why “free speech” debates so often tilt against marginalised communities; and small, everyday ways to stand in solidarity. They also note Black History Month and point ahead to a future episode on interracial relationships—communication, boundaries, and loving across difference.
It all lands where CML lives: warm, candid, and human—ready to hold both laughter and reflection.
In this episode
Turning 40, friendship dinners, and choosing joy
Travel, rest, and building a sustainable pace
Dating with honesty and privacy
Gratitude after a hard season
Reflections on current events in the U.K. and U.S.
Looking ahead: interracial relationships
If this episode sits with you:
Follow the podcast on Spotify/Apple, rate and review, and share with a friend who’d enjoy a gentle catch-up. Saving the episode helps you return when you need it most.
Editors note: mentions of political violence and racism. Views are personal. This conversation is not legal or medical advice.
September is Sickle Cell Awareness Month. Today, we hold a gentle conversation about love, intimacy and relationships when sickle cell is part of everyday life—how it shapes energy, plans and the way we care for one another.
We briefly explain what sickle cell disorder is (an inherited blood condition where some red blood cells become rigid and “sickle”-shaped, leading to pain crises, anaemia, fatigue and other complications), then move into the realities of dating and partnership.
In this episode, we explore:
When and how to share your condition in dating—early honesty vs. waiting for trust.
Language you can use: “I want you to know something important about my health, because trust matters to me.”
Stigma & myths:
Is sickle cell contagious? No.
Does it affect fertility or intimacy? Case by case—speak to your consultant.
Is it a weakness? No—living with it takes strength and resilience.
Common feelings for warriors: fear of rejection, feeling like a burden, loss of independence, unfulfilled dreams.
Building healthy partnership (two-way): patience, empathy, clear communication.
Encouragement:
If you’re living with sickle cell—trust yourself; the right person will want to know all of you.
If you’re the partner—listen without judgement, learn about sickle cell, and stand alongside (not overprotect).
Act: Call your local hospital or blood donation centre to donate blood.
Editors note: references to pain and stigma. This conversation is not medical advice—please consult your haematology team or GP for personalised guidance.
It’s the end of Season 6, and your favorite duo is wrapping things up with laughter, love, and a few linguistic curveballs. In this playful finale of Coffee Morning Laughter, Shilz puts Djenys in the hot seat with a round of the most memorable sayings and expressions shared throughout the season.
But Djenys—proudly Francophone and never one to back down—claps back with her own gems, reminding us that wisdom and wit cross cultures and languages. It’s banter, bonding, and the perfect bow on a season full of honest conversations, hilarious detours, and heartfelt lessons.
As we close out this season, we want to hear from you:
What saying stuck with you? What episode hit the hardest? What did you learn, unlearn, or laugh your heart out over?
Thanks for riding with us—Season 6 was a joy. Go catch the finale and let us know what you’re taking with you.
#CoffeeMorningLaughter #CMLpodcast #SeasonFinale #SayingsAndShenanigans #PodcastLife #WomenWhoPodcast #AfricanVoices #PodcastBanter #LifeLessons #FrancophoneVibes
This week on Coffee Morning Laughter, Shilz and Djenys are unpacking the unspoken expectations and emotional weight that comes with the title of godparent. What happens when someone you trusted to help guide your child through life ghosts the role? Or worse—moves mad?
From the spiritual significance behind choosing a godparent to the real-life drama of unkept promises, the hosts explore the complexities of this sacred bond. Djenys opens up about her personal take on godparenting, why intention matters, and the one question she believes people need to ask before saying yes: “Why do you want me to be your child’s godparent?”
Shilz and Djenys don't always agree—on confronting no-show godparents, for example—but they do land on one truth: this role should never be taken lightly. It’s about consistency, accountability, and showing up, especially when it counts.
Whether you’re a parent, a godparent, or part of the extended village raising a child, this episode is your reminder that love, presence, and respect go further than titles ever will.#CoffeeMorningLaughter #CMLpodcast #Godparents #ChosenFamily #ModernParenting #ParentingVillage #RealTalk #AccountabilityMatters #BlackParenting #FamilyRoles
In this week’s episode of Coffee Morning Laughter, titled “What’s your love language?”, Shilz and Djenys dive into the fascinating world of Love Languages, blending their signature humor with meaningful insights into how we express and receive love. The discussion spans not only romantic relationships but also how these languages manifest in friendships and other interactions.
They unpack the five love languages—Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Acts of Service, Gifting, and Physical Touch—introduced by Gary Chapman. Shilz opens up about her top love languages being Quality Time and Acts of Service, while Djenys shares how her preferences have shifted towards Physical Touch, sparking a burst of laughter and playful banter about the nuances of each preference.
The episode goes beyond the basics, exploring how these love languages can enhance communication and deepen connections, making it clear that understanding and applying these languages can lead to more fulfilling relationships. They discuss the importance of being intentional in how we use love languages to show care and appreciation, whether with a partner, friends, or family.
Shilz and Djenys challenge listeners to reflect on their own love languages, encouraging them to share stories of discovery and moments when being in tune with love languages made a difference in their relationships.
Tune in for an episode filled with laughter, revelations, and advice that might just change how you view interactions in your daily life.
Ever wondered why friends are great at sharing memes but not at playing cupid? This week on Coffee Morning Laughter, Shilz and Djenys explore the curious world of matchmaking among friends with a side of humor and real talk in the episode titled “Matchmaker, Where Are You?”
The episode kicks off with the delightful story of Namoni and Dike, whose engagement sprung from a successful setup by their mutual friends, Russel and Sierra. Inspired by this, Djenys humorously laments her friends' reluctance to introduce her to potential matches, preferring instead to send brunch invites and TikToks.
As they dive into the cultural nuances of matchmaking, Shilz asserts a golden rule: only match friends with someone you'd proudly date yourself. They share personal tales of matchmaking hits and misses, and the sometimes awkward, often hilarious consequences of these setups.
Shilz and Djenys debate why friends might hesitate to make romantic introductions—Is it fear of fallout, or just not knowing any eligible singles who measure up? They agree: If you’re going to play matchmaker, ensure the match shares similar values and life stages.
Join them as they unpack why it's crucial to only "share the good ones," and the importance of aligning matches with shared interests and values. The conversation is light-hearted yet insightful, filled with anecdotes that will have you laughing and nodding along.
So, tune in to this week's episode on your favorite podcast platform, share your thoughts on matchmaking, and get ready to discover if your friends are holding out on potential love interests or just being cautious matchmakers.
#CoffeeMorningLaughter #Matchmaking #ModernDating #FriendshipGoals #Relationships #CMLpodcast #DatingStories #LoveAndLaughter
In this heartfelt episode of Coffee Morning Laughter, titled "A Mother's Job is Never Done," we explore the multifaceted emotions that come with Mother’s Day. Shilz and Djenys delve into personal stories and reflections on motherhood—a journey that’s both endlessly rewarding and perpetually challenging.
From Shilz's humorous anecdotes about her tech-savvy mom to Djenys' touching insights on balancing work and family, this episode is a tribute to all the mothers who tirelessly juggle responsibilities while nurturing their families. They discuss the importance of support systems, the unique roles of mothers versus aunts, and the deep, often complex, relationships we share with our moms.
Mother’s Day is not just about celebration; it's a time for reflection on what it truly means to be a mother and the enduring impact of maternal love. Whether you’re celebrating, reflecting, or reconciling, join Shilz and Djenys as they honor the incredible women who shape our lives.
Tune in for an episode filled with laughter, warmth, and the recognition that a mother's job is indeed never done.
#MothersDay #Motherhood #CMLpodcast #CoffeeMorningLaughter #FamilyLove #MomLife #CelebrateMoms
In this week's episode of Coffee Morning Laughter, titled "Is This Man Yours or Is This Man Ours? (Part 2)," Shilz and Djenys delve deeper into the complexities of modern dating, focusing on women’s safety and the significant role of community support groups. They explore how these platforms are not just about scrutinizing potential partners but also fostering a network where women can safeguard each other through shared experiences and information.
The episode discusses the importance of trusting your instincts and the concept of 'safety in numbers' that these groups promote, empowering women to make informed decisions in their relationships. It highlights the necessity of discernment, as not every alarming story shared may be accurate, and the importance of distinguishing between genuine concerns and manipulated emotions.
Shilz and Djenys also tackle tough topics like responsibility in relationships and the dangers that can lurk behind seemingly perfect dates, illustrated by a chilling real-life incident that went viral on TikTok.
Join the conversation as they offer practical advice on maintaining openness in relationships and the crucial need to prioritize personal safety. This episode is a must-listen, packed with vital insights for navigating the dating world responsibly and supportively.
Tune in on Spotify or your favorite podcast platform and share this crucial discussion with the women in your life—it’s a conversation that could truly make a difference.
In this week's episode of Coffee Morning Laughter, we tackle the thorny issue of dealing with difficult bosses. Join Shilz and Djenys as they share personal stories and offer sage advice on navigating the complexities of challenging workplace dynamics.
Djenys opens up about her harrowing experiences with a particularly tough female manager, highlighting the struggles she faced while pregnant. Shilz emphasizes the importance of a supportive work environment, contrasting her positive experiences under nurturing leadership with the stress and uncertainty brought on by ineffective managers.
The discussion deepens as they debate what truly defines a great leader, swapping tales of bosses who overstep, undermine, and occasionally, those who inspire and elevate their teams.
They also tackle the delicate topic of confronting a difficult boss and the potential repercussions within the office politics. Plus, get ready for a spirited disagreement on whether HR departments are allies or obstacles in the quest for workplace justice.
Tune in for an episode filled with laughter, candid discussions, and valuable insights. Whether you’ve faced a nightmare boss yourself or just enjoy a good workplace saga, this episode is for you. Don't forget to share your own bad boss story with us—your experience could be a lifeline for someone in a similar boat!
#NightmareBosses #LeadershipLessons #WorkplaceSurvival #CoffeeMorningLaughter #CMLpodcast #RealTalk #CareerAdvice #OfficePolitics #HRDebate #PodcastLife #SurvivingBadBosses
Get ready to level up with Season 6, Episode 8 of Coffee Morning Laughter: "Preparation Meets Opportunity." In this empowering episode, Shilz and Djenys dive into the crucial roles of preparation and discipline in achieving success. They discuss how true success is not a matter of luck but the result of diligent preparation meeting the right opportunities.
Drawing from the dedication of professionals like hairstylists who perfect their craft and icons like Beyoncé known for her unparalleled work ethic, the episode underscores the importance of being proactive in your professional and personal life. The conversation extends to personal relationships, examining the necessity of having direction and discipline as foundational qualities in potential friends and partners.
From setting weekly goals to choosing your circle wisely, this episode is a toolkit for anyone looking to intentionally prepare for future successes. Shilz and Djenys highlight that life is made up of different seasons—some for planting seeds and others for harvesting the fruits of your labor.
Tune in to learn how embracing discipline and intentional preparation can transform your approach to opportunities and set you on a path to achieving your dreams. Remember, it’s all about staying ready, so you don’t have to get ready.
In this compelling episode of Coffee Morning Laughter, titled "Beef, Pride & Accountability," Shilz and Djenys delve into the complexities of taking responsibility in relationships and the broader implications of high-profile disputes like the Kendrick Lamar vs. Drake beef.
The conversation centers on the importance of accountability, particularly how people handle the repercussions of their actions toward others. Shilz argues that forgiveness doesn't mandate reconciliation, especially if boundaries have been disrespected and relationships have fundamentally changed over time.
Using the friction between Kendrick Lamar and Drake as a framework, they explore whether some conflicts are irreparable, discussing how deeply personal disagreements can permanently alter perceptions and interactions. The episode also touches on the notion that not all relationships need to be fixed—sometimes, an apology is just an acknowledgment, not an invitation to reconnect.
Shilz brings a biblical perspective, quoting, "Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks," to highlight that words often reflect our truest sentiments, especially those expressed in heat. Djenys concurs, suggesting that letting go and moving forward without resolution can sometimes be the healthiest path.
Tune in to this episode on your favorite streaming platform as Shilz and Djenys navigate the delicate balance between making amends and maintaining personal boundaries. It's a discussion about respect, recognition, and the right to distance oneself from past conflicts.
#CoffeeMorningLaughter #Accountability #Relationships #KendrickVsDrake #Forgiveness #PersonalBoundaries #PodcastLife #CMLpodcast
Valentine's Day brings with it the perennial question for many in relationships: To gift or not to gift? This episode of Coffee Morning Laughter delves into the complexities of gifting expectations at various stages of relationships. Join Shilz and Djenys as they explore how different couples navigate the pressures and pleasures of exchanging gifts on special occasions like Valentine’s Day.
From new daters to long-married couples, our hosts share insights on the delicate balance between showing affection through gifts and managing expectations. They discuss stories and perspectives that reveal how the significance of gifting can vary, sometimes leading to delightful surprises or unintended misunderstandings.
Tune in to understand the nuances of romantic gifting, hear about different relationship dynamics, and maybe even get some inspiration for your next special occasion. Whether you're a big spender or prefer heartfelt gestures, this episode will give you plenty to think about!
Stream "To Gift or Not to Gift?" now on your favorite podcast platform and join the conversation about love, relationships, and, of course, the art of gifting.
In this revealing episode of Coffee Morning Laughter, Season 6, Episode 5 takes a deep dive into the intriguing world of modern dating forums like "Are We Dating the Same Guy?"—a space where women investigate potential infidelities by comparing notes on their partners.
Shilz and Djenys explore the motivations behind joining such groups, the red flags that drive suspicion, and the quest for validation in relationships. With humor and insight, they discuss the complexities of advising those who are rich, in love, or deeply invested in spiritual guidance. The conversation extends to relationship standards and self-worth, addressing why some people settle for the bare minimum in love.
The episode also tackles the emotional dimensions of infidelity, particularly how women experience it differently, making it less detectable. Shilz challenges listeners to consider what they truly seek in dating, emphasizing the importance of self-questioning and personal standards.
Privacy versus public exposure becomes a central theme as they critique the trend of posting partners' photos in public groups. How does sharing intimate details online affect personal relationships and privacy? They encourage listeners to trust their instincts and recognize the signs when something doesn't feel right. Join Shilz and Djenys as they navigate this delicate topic, offering insights on maintaining dignity and recognizing one's worth in the complex web of modern relationships.
Stream "Is This Man Yours Or Ours?" now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite streaming service to join the conversation about love, trust, and the fine line between public intrigue and private matters.
#CoffeeMorningLaughter #ModernDating #RelationshipRedFlags #PrivacyInRelationships #SelfWorth #DatingDilemma #PodcastLife #DatingEthics
Join Shilz and Djenys on Coffee Morning Laughter as they dive into a reflective exploration of life's lessons in the episode "Things We Wish We Knew Earlier Pt 1." This engaging discussion covers the crucial insights and realizations they've gathered through varied experiences—highlighting how life humbles you, the unpredictability of career paths, and the resilience required to navigate emotional challenges.
The episode emphasizes the importance of preserving your true self through 'seasoning'—setting boundaries and maintaining personal integrity amidst life's demands. Shilz and Djenys share their perspectives on 'soft living,' which cherishes the simplicity of life's pleasures and underscores the significance of self-care and taking breaks to recharge.
They also explore the vital role of friendships, discussing how nurturing these relationships provides support and joy, and the power of healing through conversations. Each story and discussion point underlines a central message: embrace life's journey with patience, keep moving forward, and cherish the connections that enrich our experiences.
Tune in on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform to absorb these heartfelt lessons. Reflect with us and share how these insights resonate with your own experiences.
#CoffeeMorningLaughter #LifeLessons #PersonalGrowth #NewBeginnings #SoftLiving #FriendshipGoals #JoyfulLiving #CMLpodcast #PodcastLife #ReflectiveJourney
In this thought-provoking episode of Coffee Morning Laughter, hosts Shilz and Djenys delve into the recent wildfire crisis in Los Angeles, examining the complex reactions it has sparked among social media users. As the flames consumed lives, livelihood and properties, a troubling trend emerged: a glaring lack of compassion for certain victims, particularly celebrities and the affluent, raising important questions about empathy in our society.
The episode, “LA Fires: How Did We Lose Our Compassion?” explores the selective sympathy displayed online, where comments have ranged from supportive to spiteful, particularly towards those perceived as wealthy. Shilz and Djenys discuss the critical need for universal compassion regardless of social status, especially in times of widespread disaster. They challenge listeners to consider why some feel that only the underprivileged deserve empathy when tragedy strikes.
Through personal opinions and online comments, this episode unpacks the biases that influence our capacity for kindness and calls for a more inclusive approach to offering support. As Los Angeles begins to heal and rebuild, this discussion invites us to reflect on what it means to truly empathize with all those affected, regardless of their background. Join us as we explore the depths of human kindness and the critical need to nurture it in our increasingly divided world. Tune in, reflect on your views of compassion, and share your thoughts with us.
#LAFires #Compassion #SocialMediaReactions #Empathy #UniversalKindness #CoffeeMorningLaughter #PodcastDiscussion #CommunitySupport #HumanKindness
In Season 6, Episode 2 of Coffee Morning Laughter, we dive into the sometimes difficult but necessary realm of ending friendships that no longer contribute positively to our lives. Shilz and Djenys unpack the emotional and psychological aspects of recognizing when a friendship has run its course and the courage it takes to step away for the sake of personal growth.
This episode explores why some friendships may start to feel misaligned as our lives and values evolve. From shifting dynamics to recognizing toxic patterns, the hosts share personal anecdotes and advice on how to approach these tough decisions with compassion and resolve.
Listeners will gain insights into:
Join Shilz and Djenys as they provide guidance on nurturing healthier relationships and making space for more fulfilling connections. It's all about honoring your journey and surrounding yourself with people who uplift and support you.
Tune in to learn how to confidently navigate the process of quitting friendships that no longer serve you, and discover how this tough choice can open doors to better well-being and stronger, more supportive bonds.
#CoffeeMorningLaughter #Friends #FriendshipGoals #PersonalGrowth #HealthyRelationships
Welcome to the first episode of Season 6 and the new year on Coffee Morning Laughter! In "New Year Reset: Setting Goals or Vibes?" we dive into the heart of January's fervor. This episode explores the myriad ways people approach the new year—some with detailed resolutions and ambitious goals, others riding the wave of 'just vibes.'
Join Shilz and Djenys as they unpack the significance of setting intentions and how these choices can shape our year ahead. From the psychology behind resolutions to embracing a more relaxed approach to the new year, we discuss what works, what doesn't, and why sometimes, the best plan is having no plan at all.
Whether you're a planner, a dreamer, or somewhere in between, this episode offers insights and laughter for everyone. As we kick off 2025, what's your approach? Goals, vibes, or a bit of both? Tune in to find out how to make the most of your new year reset.
Remember, the year is yours to define. Let’s start it together with purpose, laughter, and maybe a new perspective on what it means to truly reset.
#NewYearReset #CoffeeMorningLaughter #Season6 #GoalSetting #NewYearVibes #CMLpodcast #PodcastLife #2025Goals
Celebrate the festive season with this special Christmas Day episode of Coffee Morning Laughter, titled "How We Christmas." Join Shilz and Djenys as they share their personal holiday traditions, favorite festive memories, and the unique ways they celebrate Christmas. From heartfelt family gatherings to the quirky customs that make the season bright, this episode is a cozy dive into the holiday spirit.
As Shilz and Djenys recount the laughter and joy of their holiday experiences, we invite you to reflect on your own Christmas traditions. What makes the holiday special for you and your loved ones? Whether it's a long-held family ritual or a new tradition you've started, we're excited to hear about the diverse and delightful ways our listeners celebrate.
Tune in to "How We Christmas" and get into the holiday spirit with us. Don’t forget to share your Christmas stories in the comments or on social media – we'd love to celebrate the season of giving and joy with our Coffee Morning Laughter community.
#HowWeChristmas #ChristmasTraditions #HolidaySpirit #CoffeeMorningLaughter #CMLpodcast #FestiveSeason #ShareYourStory