Each year, Adornment Stories works to extending our reach by expanding our online platform and provide a safe space beyond the local limits. In a time with so much grief and environmental trauma, that goal has become more necessary than ever. Black women/femmes/non-binary folks need safe spaces to share, listen and heal collectively. That’s why we have curated a list of podcasts that provide knowledgeable, impactful and relevant content by black folks for black folks. If you are in need of auditorial stimulation, heartfelt insight and healing practices, check out these podcasts suggestions.
(All of the podcasts are available on major audio sharing platforms we’ve provided links so be sure to check your preferred streaming platform).
That’s right, Adornment Stories has taken to the airwaves. The Transformation Stories Podcast, shares stories of growth, empowerment and self-discovery as a reminder that while every journey is unique, we all have the capacity to transform our lives and our stories. Hosted by writer and creative developer, Adia Nesbeth, each week features a new guest who discusses how they use their unique skills through their work or hobbies to transform their experiences. The podcast may be new on the scene, but the conversations have been ongoing for the Adornment Stories Team since it's series of wellness workshops, lead by founder Tanya Turton back in 2016. This is a five episode test run that airs weekly on Thursdays. Tanya kicks things off with advice on Personal Transformation. The first two episode is available on their website and all major podcast streaming platforms.
TherapyForBlackGirls.com is a platform dedicated to connecting Black American women with therapists, counsellors and psychologists throughout the States. The weekly Podcast, hosted by Dr. Joy Harden Bradford (a licensed Psychologist), dissects a myriad of topics related to mental health and wellness while engaging with current events and listener queries.
She discusses everything from "Maintaining Freedom While in Relationships" (Episode 125) to "How Racism Impacts Our Mental Health" (Episode 21). One of our favourites is "Can You Heal In The Environment That Hurt You" (Episode 142) in which Joy and guest Melissa Ifill discuss intergenerational trauma and redefining roles and relationships. When growing up in an environment that is triggering, when is it time to cut ties and when is it time to rebuild? Listen for yourself and let us know what you think.
Have you ever left yourself voice notes in your phone, or sent a gentle reminder to a friend or family member? Imagine that in podcast form and you have Twentynine+ (called "Twenty Nine And"). It is a new podcast that launched this summer.
With a candid diary-like format, the host Kaysie provides a reflective discussion of her journey as well as motivational affirmations and reminders. The Torontonian has covered topics such as "gentle reminders to note your accomplishments" to "reflecting on blackness..." and "2020 is shaking the table and so should you". If you have 15-20 minutes in your day for casual but insightful dialogue, then this may be a podcast you want to check out. Listen in and tell us what you think.
The Celeste the Therapist Podcast is hosted by none other than its namesake. Each episode, the Bostonian therapist invites a different guest who is doing the work to empower others and create impact. One episode we love is Self Care (Episode 179) with special guest Joy Randell. They discuss tips for self care while in quarantine including how to start visioning your ideal 24 hours and making space to slowly create that vision.
If you are looking for a conversational but in depth look at topics such as "Shoring up your finances during challenging times", "Creating space to be still" and "Mindfulness and meditation", be sure to check out Celeste the Therapist Podcast. Not only is it available via traditional podcast platforms, Celeste now offers her podcast live on Facebook, Periscope and Youtube so she can engage live with audience questions.
What Podcasts have you listened to recently?
What podcasts would you add to this list? Share your thoughts and opinions with us on Instagram (@adornment.stories) and Facebook (@adornment.stories).