Everyone carries a unique collection of life tales, current challenges, and past triumphs. You might find yourself playing a starring role or aspiring to one. At some point, however, many of us stopped sharing our stories, not because they're outdated but perhaps because we questioned their relevance in present conversations.
Enter the Wise Black Nanas, who firmly believe that women are the custodians of vital stories and events. In the tapestry of our lives, we often keep a lot to ourselves, forgetting the power and wisdom embedded in our experiences. From navigating the segregated South to thriving in the hustle of Corporate America, Wise Black Nanas have stories that resonate — stories that are both painful and uplifting, like two lifelong friends sharing a timeless connection.
Yet, the Nanas feel that Black women aren't sharing enough of their narratives. What have these seasoned women, with their wealth of experiences in marriages, divorces, losses, triumphs, and relationships, learned as they've "Nana'd" many at home and work? A lot. Their stories are as relevant today as they were years ago, echoing through generations facing similar challenges.
So, seizing the opportunity, the Wise Black Nanas have decided to launch a podcast. It's not a tell-all, but a tell-some — a chance to share everyday lived experiences, sprinkle in a lesson or two, and offer some straightforward advice. While this podcast may not resonate with everybody, it's destined for a lot of somebodies who crave genuine, relatable stories.
Are the Wise Black Nanas a bit jaded? Perhaps. Are there still unfinished chapters in their lives? Absolutely. But do they still hold onto hope and believe in love? Without a doubt.
If you've ever pondered the "what ifs" or wondered how others endured, resisted, and kept it together, this podcast is your window into the world of Wise Black Nanas — friends, colleagues, mothers, wives, former wives, grandmothers, aunts, sisters, and SISTAHS, all wrapped up in the vibrant personalities of these two mature women.
Get ready for a podcast that breaks the mold. Here come the Nanas, bringing you a different kind of storytelling experience.
Learn more about the Nanas Sharla M. Walker and Joanne Early at https://WiseBlackNanas.com
Support the Nanas at https://wiseblacknanas.com/support
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Everyone carries a unique collection of life tales, current challenges, and past triumphs. You might find yourself playing a starring role or aspiring to one. At some point, however, many of us stopped sharing our stories, not because they're outdated but perhaps because we questioned their relevance in present conversations.
Enter the Wise Black Nanas, who firmly believe that women are the custodians of vital stories and events. In the tapestry of our lives, we often keep a lot to ourselves, forgetting the power and wisdom embedded in our experiences. From navigating the segregated South to thriving in the hustle of Corporate America, Wise Black Nanas have stories that resonate — stories that are both painful and uplifting, like two lifelong friends sharing a timeless connection.
Yet, the Nanas feel that Black women aren't sharing enough of their narratives. What have these seasoned women, with their wealth of experiences in marriages, divorces, losses, triumphs, and relationships, learned as they've "Nana'd" many at home and work? A lot. Their stories are as relevant today as they were years ago, echoing through generations facing similar challenges.
So, seizing the opportunity, the Wise Black Nanas have decided to launch a podcast. It's not a tell-all, but a tell-some — a chance to share everyday lived experiences, sprinkle in a lesson or two, and offer some straightforward advice. While this podcast may not resonate with everybody, it's destined for a lot of somebodies who crave genuine, relatable stories.
Are the Wise Black Nanas a bit jaded? Perhaps. Are there still unfinished chapters in their lives? Absolutely. But do they still hold onto hope and believe in love? Without a doubt.
If you've ever pondered the "what ifs" or wondered how others endured, resisted, and kept it together, this podcast is your window into the world of Wise Black Nanas — friends, colleagues, mothers, wives, former wives, grandmothers, aunts, sisters, and SISTAHS, all wrapped up in the vibrant personalities of these two mature women.
Get ready for a podcast that breaks the mold. Here come the Nanas, bringing you a different kind of storytelling experience.
Learn more about the Nanas Sharla M. Walker and Joanne Early at https://WiseBlackNanas.com
Support the Nanas at https://wiseblacknanas.com/support
The Wise Black Nanas are shining a light on friends and friendships, exploring what they mean, how they shape us, and why they matter.
What makes a good friend? How do you know who is truly there for you?
In this heartfelt episode, Dr. Sharla opens up about one of the most private and painful times in her life and how her friends helped her through it.
Join the Nanas as they share stories, laughter, and lessons on finding, keeping, and being great friends at any age and at any stage of life. It is never too late to build deeper, more meaningful connections.
How often do we consciously or unconsciously utter “I’ll do it later, tomorrow, next week, next life?”. In this Episode, Wise Black Nanas take a closer look at this everyday action, or inaction. Is procrastination a real thing? What is procrastination and what keeps us from “doing it now?” Why do we procrastinate, at home at work, in all interactions and aspects of our lives? Can you guess which Nana is an admitted procrastinator? The Nanas suggest ways that we turn procrastination around. Or maybe we’ll do it later...
Thank-you for listening! You can support the Nanas at https://wiseblacknanas.com/support
In this powerful and revealing episode, the Nanas go deep on what it really means to love someone enough to be tough. With their trademark honesty, wisdom, and unfiltered truth-telling, they explore the many faces of Tough Love—when it's necessary, how it can be misunderstood, and why it's often one of the hardest but most loving places to stand.
They open up about personal experiences, the emotional weight of holding boundaries, and the internal struggle of showing up with fierce love when softness just won't serve. If you've ever had to make a hard call for the sake of someone you care about—or if you're on the receiving end of someone else's truth—this episode will give you clarity, validation, and courage.
In this short but heartfelt message, the Wise Black Nanas take a moment to honor Juneteenth, a day of reflection, celebration, and continued commitment to freedom and justice.
Dr. Sharla shares a personal memory of seeing Opal Lee, the “Grandmother of Juneteenth,” speak in Las Vegas. Her inspirational presence was a powerful example of the impact one person can have in changing a nation’s story.
Looking for a deeper dive into the history and meaning behind Juneteenth? The Nanas invite you to revisit Episode 13 – Juneteenth: Did You Know?, where they explore the history and enduring significance of this important day.
Wise Black Nanas take a look at this common, everyday casual phrase that most of us know well, or do we? How often do you say “How You Doing”? What’s going on when you use the phrase? How are you feeling about the other person who asked you? Probably not something you have considered lately. As usual the Nanas have their own thoughts and experiences with this phrase, and can’t wait to share them with you.
Wise Black Nanas takes a light hearted look at looking back to past times, a slice of their past life, a few of their favorite memories from the Good Ole Days. Joanne and Dr Sharla think a little humor is just the ticket for our current time. When things seem negative, Wise Black Nanas look for the positive. Hear what they think is great and not so great about looking back and how might looking back help us today?
Wise Black Nanas take a look at Robbers of Joy. Just what is that anyway? In their own unique way, Joanne and Dr Sharla talk about the things that Rob us of Joy, whether it is family, work, or life situations, there are ways to recognize and restore that Joy. Listen in as they leave you with hope, optimism and strategies that are simple and lighthearted. And of course with a few laughs along the way.
What happens when cancer is the diagnosis? How does this affect Wise Black Nanas? Listen in to hear about this intensely personal account describing how Joanne reacts when she hears those words, directed at her. How does it impact her life? What does she think was most helpful to her, how does she navigate through it? What are her thoughts, how is she doing now, what words of experience and advice does she share? Listen in as Wise Black Nanas talk about keeping this chapter together or maybe not.
Wise Black Nanas celebrates a whole year of Podcasts. And WOW, what a year the Nanas have had! Dr. Sharla and Joanne share more of their stories, wisdom, strategies and tips to help with some of Life’s Toughest Decisions. This Guide is our gift to you. The guide is an easy to use, true labor of love that is packed with coaching tips, things to do right now, and a whole new set of “Nanaisms” that we hope you will enjoy. Tune in! Get your own copy of the Nanas’ Guide to Life’s Toughest Decisions at WiseBlackNanas.com/guide
Wise Black Nanas are shining the light on one of their favorite literary s/heroes, Dr. Maya Angelou. Powerful and positive in her approach to the realities of life, Dr. Maya has been an inspiration and motivational source for decades. Discovered by both Nanas early in life, they talk about how her award winning work and inspiring being has been a constant in their work and lives. Dr. Sharla shares an intense and raw story that illustrates the connection with one of Dr. Angelou’s most well known award winning works, “And Still I Rise.” The Nanas illustrate how connecting with literature keeps us sane, grounds us, while providing the motivation we need to keep going, even in the darkest of times.
It’s our 20th episode! Join us as we celebrate this milestone and reflect on the journey so far. As we enter the holiday season—a time filled with celebrations, cherished memories, and joyful gatherings—the Wise Black Nanas remind us that this season can also bring stress, grief, and mixed emotions. For many, the holidays bring up memories of loss, challenges from COVID, political tensions, and past experiences that linger.
In this special episode, the Nanas share their fondest holiday memories, their favorite traditions, and the deeper significance these moments hold. Whether this season brings joy or struggle, come celebrate, reflect, and embrace all it brings, with us.
“Make Your Mark” can mean a host of things. It’s an old saying and even older practice. What does it really mean in today’s world? Hear Wise Black Nanas talk about Making Your Mark while taking a closer look and relating the phrase to current times. Joanne opens up more about growing up in the segregated South when “Making Your Mark” was a necessity and a common practice for many people. Wise Black Nanas share loving memories of elderly relatives during a very different time, or is it? How will you Make Your Mark?
It’s political season. Wise Black Nanas could not miss the opportunity to share their thoughts on our political climate. Wise Black Nanas remind us of the historical significance of Civil Rights and Voting Rights efforts over the years, the connections and messages that still ring true today. What was it like to attend a newly integrated school as a teenager? Listen as Dr. Sharla shares remembrances of that period. Their passion shines through on this relevant episode. Get connected to your desire to vote!
The Nanas are back after a brief break, back amid their own challenges, Dr Sharla is getting stronger each day, all while the country is greatly polarized in the political arena. The Nanas have a lively discussion about how they will move forward, the hard tough conversations, life and family roles, everyday issues, and most critically their labor of love, Wise Black Nanas.
What’s your purpose? Ever felt that others around you seem to know their calling? Their reason for being here? Perhaps you are not as sure? Well, Wise Black Nanas shed more light on this easy, and yet complex concept. During the conversation Dr. Sharla is especially engaging and frank about the influence of her background. Joanne and Sharla discuss “being” and “doing”...key as it relates to discovering our purpose, our reason for being here. Wise Black Nanas think it’s never too late to discover your purpose. It’s never too late to get started!
Wise Black Nanas welcome Dr. Sharla back from her period of recuperation! With grace and gratitude, Dr. Sharla discusses some of her experiences, what got her through, and what she learned about resilience along the way. Wise Black Nanas talk about key issues, documents, family roles as only they can. In hindsight, what situations caused Dr. Sharla to re-look at plans she thought were in place, and sufficient. Were they? Learn, be encouraged, be inspired, just in case you need a resilience check-up.
Joanne explores the concept of gratitude in that Wise Black Nanas style we love - personal, fascinating, moving and inspiring. This is not your standard treatise on the importance of gratitude. Engaging, revealing and powerful, you will reflect not only on what you can be grateful for, but how you can fully embrace the life you are living.
Wise Black Nanas looks closer at the newly proclaimed Federal Holiday Juneteenth. Is this just another day off or what is the real significance of June 19? Enjoy Joanne’s part history lesson and part personal commentary espousing how the Black Community has kept Juneteenth near and dear, current, alive and growing through Reconstruction, Jim Crow, Civil Rights Movement, Black Lives Matter and Me Too. Joanne shares her love of history with you as she talks about how and why Juneteenth is more than a Holiday to so many people, and has so much potential. Go with her from Texas to Central Florida to Oakland to Washington DC, what happened there and what they mean to the narrative. Hear about well known historical figures and learn about a few new ones. Be inspired to make Juneteenth everyday.
Wise Black Nanas pull back the curtain for a look into the lives of two special guests, Millennial best friends Amber and Monique. They have known each other since 4th grade. One married, the other single, different career choices, different demands on time. What sustains them? How do they keep it together, or do they? What keeps them up at night as they juggle family, relationships, careers, social media, children or not, and the demands of today. They talk about health, loss, friendship and support. Can these young women of today have it “all”, or does it just look that way? Their story reinforces the Super-Power of friendship, love, and gratitude.
Wise Black Nanas were thrown a curveball. Just what does that mean, what do you do when something happens that you did not plan for; something completely out of your control. Hear the strategy that Wise Black Nanas embrace as they work through their season of uncertainty. Joanne shares a revealing situation that shows that the Nanas do not always have all the answers or make the right choices. As she looks back at the situation, what did she learn, what was reinforced? Practice key essential steps right along with the Nanas.
Everyone carries a unique collection of life tales, current challenges, and past triumphs. You might find yourself playing a starring role or aspiring to one. At some point, however, many of us stopped sharing our stories, not because they're outdated but perhaps because we questioned their relevance in present conversations.
Enter the Wise Black Nanas, who firmly believe that women are the custodians of vital stories and events. In the tapestry of our lives, we often keep a lot to ourselves, forgetting the power and wisdom embedded in our experiences. From navigating the segregated South to thriving in the hustle of Corporate America, Wise Black Nanas have stories that resonate — stories that are both painful and uplifting, like two lifelong friends sharing a timeless connection.
Yet, the Nanas feel that Black women aren't sharing enough of their narratives. What have these seasoned women, with their wealth of experiences in marriages, divorces, losses, triumphs, and relationships, learned as they've "Nana'd" many at home and work? A lot. Their stories are as relevant today as they were years ago, echoing through generations facing similar challenges.
So, seizing the opportunity, the Wise Black Nanas have decided to launch a podcast. It's not a tell-all, but a tell-some — a chance to share everyday lived experiences, sprinkle in a lesson or two, and offer some straightforward advice. While this podcast may not resonate with everybody, it's destined for a lot of somebodies who crave genuine, relatable stories.
Are the Wise Black Nanas a bit jaded? Perhaps. Are there still unfinished chapters in their lives? Absolutely. But do they still hold onto hope and believe in love? Without a doubt.
If you've ever pondered the "what ifs" or wondered how others endured, resisted, and kept it together, this podcast is your window into the world of Wise Black Nanas — friends, colleagues, mothers, wives, former wives, grandmothers, aunts, sisters, and SISTAHS, all wrapped up in the vibrant personalities of these two mature women.
Get ready for a podcast that breaks the mold. Here come the Nanas, bringing you a different kind of storytelling experience.
Learn more about the Nanas Sharla M. Walker and Joanne Early at https://WiseBlackNanas.com
Support the Nanas at https://wiseblacknanas.com/support
