A candid Conversation with Keturah Kendrick where she will be joining me to talk about navigating society as a black woman and the strength it takes to choose the right path for you, instead of bending yourself to fit the mold of what the world wants you to be.

In the spirit of #internationalwomensday and #womenshistorymonth, we brought two incredibly powerful and trailblazing women on the show for a conversation on female entrepeneurship, carving a space for yourself a patriarchal society and creating opportunities for other women to grow and thrive. Tania Abraham is a Climate Change and Urban Sanitation Specialist with the World Bank. Since joining the Bank, she has worked with the Climate Change Group and the Urban Resilience and Land Global Practice, where she has focused on the development of methodologies and guidance to assess climate adaptation and resilience throughout the World Bank Portfolio. More recently, she has begun working with other Multi-development Banks to establish an assessment framework in support of the Paris Agreement and Sustainable Development goals, which will enable countries to shift to low-carbon and climate resilient pathways while pursuing their core development goals. Kuki Vincent Osei's two most important identities are Mother and Entrepreneur. She has a two year old son named Kreed and is also the owner of Kreed Hair, a local kids hair care brand http://www.kreedhaircare.com (www.kreedhaircare.com). Kuki founded Kreed Hair to create hair products made specifically for black children's hair. Kreed Hair Kare is a carefully created kids brand that locks in moisture and helps to promote growth with its naturally formulated products made from the best organic, sulfate, paraben free and non animal tested blends. 6 weeks into her pregnancy with Kreed, Kuki was diagnosed with Leukemia and after being able to deliver a happy and healthy baby boy, she wanted to pay it forward to anyone who finds themselves in the same position she was in by adding a social responsibility component to Kreed Hair Kare where 10% of their yearly proceeds go to Leukemia Research.

Motherhood. It’s what’s expected of every woman and after birth, often becomes their identity. But what happens to women who do not want to be mothers? What happens to women who want children but do not want to go through the stress and pain of carrying and birthing a child? Are they any less of a mother? Is their child any less theirs? The answer is an obvious no, but to some, that is not the case. Traditionalism has limited the idea of “motherhood” to those who bear and birth their children and we need to further broaden that idea to remove the stigma and alienation around non-traditional mothers. We as a society need to recognize that to carry and give birth requires far more of the mother than what we see in pictures, posts and the media. The toll that a baby in utero takes on a woman’s body is extensive and long lasting. The effects of pregnancy does not end at birth. The physical and mental toll that having a child takes on a woman can be deadly. Yet we’ve isolated women in this experience. A woman’s choice to not bear children needs to be normalized and respected. It is important to recognize and understand that women are not human incubators. And to be a mother means a whole lot more than just having carried and given birth to a baby. A good mother is reflected in the love they give their child.

How does being a believer and a church member affect or impact one's relationship with their partner? How do you find a balance between the two? How do you manage the pressures of the church on your marriage and vice versa?

For many, it is a dream sold by Disney with the reality being far less “happy”. The end goal when beginning new relationships for many is marriage, a family and a live spent well together. But what happens to those who get married and realize that they aren’t a good fit together?

Our society’s default perception and understanding of relationships and by extension, love is through the lens of heteronormativity. This assumption has severely limited our understanding of love, relationships and each other. Love is fluid. It is a state of mind and being but how can we recognize love if we restrict it within the confines of a heteronormative society and understanding? How does your gender identity(s) impact your relationships? What role-if any, does gender play in love? What does love(and sex) look like in a heterosexual, queer, polyamorous relationship? What are the differences? What are the similarities?

How do we show our love for others? How do we let them know how much they mean to us when words are so limited and the feeling of being in love or simply loving another person is so vast and seemingly inexplicable? What does love mean to you?

Beko Mantein is a pharmacist, host of "Life and Money" podcast and subject matter expert on how to gain financial independence and live your best life now. Mantein joins me this episode to educate us on how to better manage our mind, money and time. Follow us on instagram/YouTube and never miss a live show here: https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link (https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link) https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ (https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ) Support our show by purchasing The Conversation Merch here: https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/ (https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/)

Preston Mitchum is an unapologetically Black and queer civil rights advocate, public speaker, writer, and professor hailing from Ohio and residing in the nation’s capital. He is the Director of Advocacy and Government Affairs at The Trevor Project, the Senior Policy Analyst at the Center for Health and Gender Equality, the Judicial Law Clerk to the Honorable S. Pamela Gray and the Honorable Errol R. Arthur, and was a Policy Analyst with the Center for American Progress’ LGBT Research and Communications department. At CAP, he published over 15 columns on workplace discrimination, health, the school-to-prison pipeline, and social commentary on hot-button issues. He also co-authored a groundbreaking report, “Beyond Bullying: How Hostile School Climate Perpetuates the School-to-Prison Pipeline for LGBT Youth. In this episode, Preston will discuss black queer advocacy and safe spaces for members of the LGBTQ community. Learn more about Preston's efforts and journey here: https://instagram.com/preston.mitchum?utm_medium=copy_link (https://instagram.com/preston.mitchum?utm_medium=copy_link) Follow us on instagram/YouTube and never miss a live show here: https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link (https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link) https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ (https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ) Support our show by purchasing The Conversation Merch here: https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/ (https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/)

Leigh Cowen, the Founder and Director of "Mens Mental Health Australia", a non profit organization with a mission to create awareness and motivate perceptional change about men's mental health, and create a safe space that supports men in getting the help and services they need. The organization also assists men with subsidized therapy services, medications, and additional services to support them through their mental health journey. Leigh joins me in this episode to discuss his organization, efforts and men's mental health awareness. Learn more about Leigh Cowen's efforts and journey here: https://www.instagram.com/leighcowen_official/ Follow us on instagram/YouTube and never miss a live show here: https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link (https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link) https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ (https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ) Support our show by purchasing The Conversation Merch here: https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/ (https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/)

C. Thomas is a poet, host, author, orator, teaching artist and an amplified voice through art, teaching and advocating for the benefit of Child Abuse survivors, The Black Lives Matter, Mental Health, SGL (Same Gender Loving) and the LGBTQ+ community. Named a Pioneer of Poetry by NUSPA (National Underground Spoken Word Poetry Awards) in 2015, C. Thomas has stunned audiences at Studio 2001 Art Gallery, Busboys and Poets, Angelina College, Howard University, Prince George's Community College, Thomas Jefferson University, Old Dominion University, Eleanor Roosevelt High School, Glen Forest Elementary School, Carlos Rosario International Charter School, and Journey of Faith United Methodist Church. 1 in 6 boys are sexually abused before their 18th birthday. C. Thomas joins me this episode to help remove the stigma and shame surrounding male sexual assault and abuse. Learn more about C. Thomas' efforts and journey here: https://www.instagram.com/cthomasworks/ Follow us on instagram/YouTube and never miss a live show here: https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link (https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link) https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ (https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ) Support our show by purchasing The Conversation Merch here: https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/ (https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/)

Chiquita Afuluenu is the CEO of West Tourism Management. Launched in 2015, this boutique tour operator is known for providing unique experiences in African destinations with a special focus on luxury, responsible tourism, and tourism investment relations. With over a decade of experience in the industry, along with an advance Diploma in Travel and Tourism from The Institute of Travel and Tourism of The Gambia. It is truly safe to say that hospitality and tourism is her greatest passion, most especially in the African context. Ms. Afuluenu is recognized for exceeding client expectations through her strong work ethic, leadership and administrative skills, attention to detail, and dedication to exemplary service. She excels in multi-tasking in a fast paced environment, and completing projects within time and budget constraints. Her effective management style encourages a collaborative team effort creating a unique and rewarding experience for customers and building a loyal client base. Chiquita joins me this episode to discuss Liberian tourism and travel. Learn more about West Tourism Management here: https://www.instagram.com/west_tourism/ Follow us on instagram/YouTube and never miss a live show here: https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link (https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link) https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ (https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ) Support our show by purchasing The Conversation Merch here: https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/ (https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/)

C. Patrick Burrowes is Liberia’s leading historian. His books include "Between the Kola Forest and the Salty Sea: A History of the Liberian People Before 1800", "Black Christian Republicanism: The Writings of Hilary Teage (1805-1853)", "Founder of Liberia", and (with D. Elwood Dunn and Amos J. Beyan) "The Historical Dictionary of Liberia". He has been published widely in highly-regarded scholarly journals. His research has received awards from the International Communication Association and the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communications. From 1995 to 1998, Burrowes served as the Carter G. Woodson Distinguished Professor of Journalism at Marshall University. He is one of only two dozen persons of African descent ever appointed to an endowed chair in the history of the U. S. He was later a tenured professor of communication and humanities at Penn State University. Burrowes holds a B. A. in Journalism (Cum Laude), Howard University, 1976; M. A. in Communications, Syracuse University, 1979; and Ph. D. in Communications, Temple University, 1994. He is joining me this episode to share his wealth of knowledge on Liberia's history. Follow us on instagram/YouTube and never miss a live show here: https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link (https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link) https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ (https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ) Support our show by purchasing The Conversation Merch here: https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/ (https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/)

Dawn Mai Padmore is a Liberian classical singer and recitalist. Padmore has appeared in a variety of concerts featuring African music, including a performance in New York's 2006 "African Music Symposium". She was invited to sing at the inauguration of the Republic of Liberia’s President, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, the first female African president. She has also performed for Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Bishop Desmond Tutu in Minneapolis as part of the annual National Youth Leadership Council’s conference. Dawn will be joining me this episode to discuss the roots and authenticity of Liberian music. Learn more about Dawn and her talents here https://www.instagram.com/maisiepadmore/ Follow us on instagram/YouTube and never miss a live show here: https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link (https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link) https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ (https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ) Support our show by purchasing The Conversation Merch here: https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/ (https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/)

Chantal Victoria (Chantal Victoria Bright) is a first-generation Liberian American. Due to the civil wars in Liberia, her family sought refuge in the United States, where she grew up in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She holds a master’s degree in Environmental Management from the University of Pennsylvania and a bachelor’s degree in English and Political Science (dual course) from Seton Hall University. Chantal is pursuing a PhD in Geography and her research sits at the nexus of water security, peace and fragility in Liberia from an African ecofeminist perspective at the University of Manchester (United Kingdom). Chantal is joining me this episode to celebrate Liberia and discuss her book series about important social, political and infrastructure issues like water access, sanitation, friendship, culture, family and more. Learn more about Channi and the Jayjay book series here: https://www.instagram.com/channi_v/ Follow us on instagram/YouTube and never miss a live show here: https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link (https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link) https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ (https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ) Support our show by purchasing The Conversation Merch here: https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/ (https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/)

Mahmud Johnson is an entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of J-Palm Liberia. J-Palm Liberia @jpalmlib was founded in 2013 and is dedicated to creating oil palm-based consumer goods and clean energy solutions for consumers through a no-waste manufacturing process. Before J-Palm Liberia’s launch, Mr. Johnson worked part-time as the Senior Economic Analyst at Aurora Solutions- a strategy consulting company that works at the intersection of business strategy and economic development in Liberia. In addition to his company and consulting work at USAID and Insight Entreprise Consulting, he also worked directly with in-school youth through a project started in 2012 called the iTeach, iLearn Fellowship. Through this programme, Mr. Johnson mentoredand tutored talented young Liberians applying to international universities. He will be joining us on this episode to Celebrate Entrepreneurship in Liberia, The Oldest African Country. Learn more about Mahmud's efforts and journey here: https://instagram.com/mahjohns?utm_medium=copy_link (https://instagram.com/mahjohns?utm_medium=copy_link) Follow us on instagram/YouTube and never miss a live show here: https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link (https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link) https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ (https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ) Support our show by purchasing The Conversation Merch here: https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/ (https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/)

Tasha Lallemand is a strong believer of grace, hair and makeup Artist(MUA), trauma survivor and the proud Mama of the podcast "Confession of a Christian Girl". She joins us this episode to discuss the ups and downs of the Church. Learn more about Tasha here: https://instagram.com/confessionsofachristiangirl?utm_medium=copy_link (https://instagram.com/confessionsofachristiangirl?utm_medium=copy_link) Follow us on instagram/YouTube and never miss a live show here: https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link (https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link) https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ (https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ) Support our show by purchasing The Conversation Merch here: https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/ (https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/)

Jada Mayson is a singer and songwriter whose vocal prowess has been likened to many Gospel music icons such as Cece Winans and Tasha Cobbs. Jada has appeared on ABC News, CNN Talkback Live, the Star Ledger Newspaper among others for her academic achievements. In December 2018, Jada released Son of God, Son of Mine which was co-written by international music producer Cobhams Asuquo. "Son of God, Son of Mine" is a powerful ballad in which she delivers an emotionally soul-stirring performance conveying Mary’s perspective as the Mother of Jesus. Her latest single is a remake of the song "Call the Name Jesus". She resides in Plainfield, New Jersey where she practices law as a Defense Attorney and she enjoys a fulfilling life with her husband Stanley and their three children, Naomi, Nehemiah, and Noah. Learn more about Jada's efforts and journey here: https://instagram.com/jadamaysonmusic?utm_medium=copy_link (https://instagram.com/jadamaysonmusic?utm_medium=copy_link) Follow us on instagram/YouTube and never miss a live show here: https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link (https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link) https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ (https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ) Support our show by purchasing The Conversation Merch here: https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/ (https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/)

Rev Zangai Peabody is an associate pastor at Harvest Intercontinental Church-Olney(formerly Bethel World Outreach Church). Ram Oula is a registered psych nurse and host of “Pray with Ram”, a live prayer forum. In this episode, they will join me to discuss "Prayer", a word we take for granted. Ought we to do so? What do we mean by prayer? What does the word mean in the Christian context? Almost always when we talk about prayer we refer to something we do. From that standpoint, questions problems, confusion, discouragement and illusions multiply. Our Christian knowledge assures us that prayer is essentially what God does, how God addresses us, looks at us. And what God is doing for us is giving us the Divine Self in love. What then is the core of the central message of the revelation of Jesus? It is the unconditional love of God for us, for each one of us. God the unutterable, incomprehensible Mystery, the Reality of all reality, the Life of all Life. And this means that divine Love desires to communicate its Holy Self to us. Learn more about Ram's efforts and journey here: https://instagram.com/praywithram?utm_medium=copy_link (https://instagram.com/praywithram?utm_medium=copy_link) Follow us on instagram/YouTube and never miss a live show here: https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link (https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link) https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ (https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ) Support our show by purchasing The Conversation Merch here: https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/ (https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/)

Lisa Stanford, Ray Williams and Ebere Okoye join us in this episode that focuses on the "What", "WHY" and "How" of death-one of the most common experiences we all have in common yet deal with so differently. Learn more about Lisa and Ray's efforts and journey here: https://instagram.com/lisannmarie_?utm_medium=copy_link (https://instagram.com/lisannmarie_?utm_medium=copy_link) https://instagram.com/maseaney?utm_medium=copy_link (https://instagram.com/maseaney?utm_medium=copy_link) Follow us on instagram/YouTube and never miss a live show here: https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link (https://instagram.com/theconversationn_?utm_medium=copy_link) https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ (https://youtube.com/channel/UC6pAXvpM35LNMZRkUzk7uTQ) Support our show by purchasing The Conversation Merch here: https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/ (https://www.theconversationoutspokenandopinionated.com/)