Shawana Speaks: Recent Episodes
Shawana
This platform was created to encourage, empower and enlighten all! Though most of my messages are usually geared towards women, I believe even men can gain insight, and inspiration from this podcast!
In this episode I get VERY personal about my journey of love. Throughout this 10 year time span I can honestly say it’s been a rollercoaster! Through many challenges and not so great choices, I’ve seen changes that have shaped me into a woman I can be proud of. Going from single mommy of one, to being in a relationship and now expecting ; God had truly done a number on me ; and this go round feels sooo different ! (A good different 😩) You’ll hear me talk about the struggle to believe in love, the journey to finding myself as well as finding the courage to receive the love I consistently said I believed I was worthy of! Yes, I battled with being happy; but at some point I finally saw the beauty in letting present evidence be greater than my past experience. 😮💨 (A lesson within itself!) I’m not saying my life or love is perfect, I’m saying this is the greatest it’s ever been; and this is my story! Happy listening! ❤️
Meet Taylor Warren, a mama and mogul from the small town of Greenwood, SC. Taylor is the owner of "The Look" boutique, that offers classy and chic styles to all that seek a full look they can be adored in. Starting her boutique wasn't some life-long dream, but yet a passion that she turned into major profit during the pandemic. Since launching her boutique Taylor has made major strides, but also faced some struggles on this journey as well.As the mother of a beautiful, 11 year old princess, who's not really a baby anymore; we take a trip down memory lane on her motherhood journey. We talk about her battle with Postpartum Depression (PPD), the challenges she's faced, and how she overcame by understanding the importance of being good as a person, before ever being good as a parent.Through her support system, and an emphasis on self-care; Taylor's goal is for all women to feel and look their best as well. She has been able to consistently evolve as a Mother on a Mission to Succeed, and as you listen I hope you're inspired to do the same. I am super excited for you all to hear her story, and urge you to connect and shop with her using the handles below! Connect with Taylor:Instagram: Thelook_scFacebook: The Look BoutiqueWebsite: thelooksc.com
Meet Janey Sow! 🤗In this episode we talk about Janey's journey of being a mom, married, and making ALL of her dreams come true! It is most certainly not an easy task, but day by day, she works to get it done. Janey has faced MANY challenges since becoming a mom, one of the hardest being navigating motherhood without her mom. However, through challenges and changes, the "Good growing pains" have made her into the woman she is today. We, as mom's, often feel like we can never take the cape off, but it's honestly necessary! You'll hear Janey talk about the importance of her support system; and reaching a breaking point of having to utter those three difficult words, "I need help!" Once we speak up, we see who’s there ready to help out!! 😮💨I pray that as you all listen to this week's episode, you'll see the beauty in vulnerability; and also recognize the strength it takes to confess your weaknesses! You are NOT alone mama! Janey, thank you for being an open book; and sharing your M.O.M.S journey with us. If you want to connect with Janey you can do so using the social media handles below! Be sure to rate this episode and this podcast!Connect with Janey:FB: Janey SowSnapchat: JaneymaeeIG: Janeymae__Tiktok: Janeymaee
Happy New Year y'all! We're back with our first episode of 2024 featuring our special guest, Ms. Ashley Cooper! A mom of three, and an amazing social worker and therapist, and founder of "Killing the Silence" a non-profit organization that focuses on bringing awareness to mental health in the black community. Ashley and I take a deep dive into her journey of becoming a mother at 19, leaving and returning to college, and finding a balance between work and mommy hood. We also discuss the beauty in healing from your parents while learning to parent your own children. We took a quick detour into "Dads & Daughters" and I'm pretty sure there will be a part two coming soon!All in all, Ashley has overcome MANY obstacles, and have beat the odds; vowing to never become a statistic. Through all that she's faced, determination and discipline have been the driving force for her, and has helped her accomplish her goals. As you listen, may you find the strength to keep pushing forward knowing that NOTHING is impossible!CONNECT WITH ASHLEY!Facebook: Ashley CooperInstagram: ANCOOPER1109 & Killing_thesilence
Happy New Year‼️ Here’s to the first episode of 2024! On this week’s episode our special guest is actually ME, your host, Shawana Miller (also known as Shawana Speaks) I wanted to give y’all some insight on how M.O.M.S came to be, and share my own journey of becoming a Mom myself ! In this episode I highlight PPD, and the journey of self discovery and the importance of accountability. I also share some news that many may or many not know; and I pray that something that’s said in this episode helps just one person. Thank you for listening, and get ready cause we’re baaaack! 🤗
Meet THEE Jasmin Waites Parker! Jas grew up in Georgetown, SC in the Dunbar area. A small town girl, but Jasmin has ALWAYS had BIG dreams. In her earliest elementary years she declared that she would be a lawyer, and at the age of 28 years old, that dream became a reality when she passed the South Carolina state bar in 2022!
In the 20 years of her first declaration at 8, and actually fulfilling her proclamation at 28, Jas experienced GREAT challenges. One of her greatest challenge would be in 2017 when she found out she was pregnant months before graduating from undergrad. Hopelessness and shame would try to overtake her, but what her village wouldn't let her do is give up. You'll hear this story, as well as so much more experiences and encounters throughout this episode.
One lesson we can ALL learn from this episode is "When "life" happens to us, God is NOT through with us." (Even if we're "at fault"). No matter how many times you try to give up on yourself, God has and will never give up on you! Look around and see who you're surrounded by that's pushing you, and KEEP GOING. Jasmin is a Mom on a Mission to Succeed; and is inspiring others to do the same by sharing her story. My prayer is that you take all the gems that she's dropped and add them to your collection as you press through. And may you never ever forget, HE'S NOT THROUGH WITH YOU!
Connect with Jas:
Facebook: Jasmin Waites Parker
Facebook Group: "The Grace Project"
IG: _jasminjanay
Shamaiha is from Georgetown, SC currently living in Virginia. She’s been serving active duty in the US Air Force and just hit 11 years, half way to retirement! She’s a Boy mom to her handsome 8 year old son and is Very much educated! She has an Associates, Bachelor’s AND Masters degree, and is a life long learner . She enjoys traveling, trying new food and being a sports mom! During this episode, we dig deep into Shamaiha’s story; and I can truly say, it’s extremely inspiring! As the eldest of 4, we talk about her natural ability to lead, and her selfless decision at the age of 16 to make life easier for her mom, and better for herself! After losing her mom a couple of years ago, selflessly, she stepped up to ensure that her siblings were taken care of. So not only is she a Mom, she’s a SISTER-MOM, and honestly; she thoroughly enjoys being “the manage of the family!”Shamaiha’s motto is “Life Goes On”; and she’s truly THRIVING in the process of growing through all that she’s been through. Her personality is OUT of this world, and you can feel her presence through this episode. She even took the reins and asked ME a question! Lol! Who does that? Lol! I pray that as you listen to this podcast that you laugh JUST as much as we did; and that you are also inspired by all that she’s overcome. Shamaiha is a Mother on a Mission to Succeed, and I have NO doubt that she is going become ALL that she desires to be. ❤️Connect with Shamaiha:IG: __mia95SC: shamiahaFacebook: Shamiaha Holmes
Meet the powerhouse that is Porsche Nowlin! Porsche is a multi-passionate creative 🎨, Navy wife 💍, proud boy mom 💙 and entrepreneur. She is the founder and owner of The PEAK Creative Co. where she helps visionary women cultivate their ideas with clarity and confidence and build brands that empower them to elevate their online presence, attract dream clients, and show up as the woman she is today. During our time together, Porsche and I discussed her journey of birthing her business baby, then her physical baby and learning how to balance the two! As you hear Porsche speak about the struggles that she’s overcome, you’ll understand the strength that has been developed, and the tenacity she possesses to bet on herself! Take a listen to learn what drives her, why she continues to be set apart, and how she’s striving EVERYDAY to continually be a Mother on a Mission to Succeed!! ❤️
Sometimes, the line of work you’re in, isn’t something you choose; it chooses you. For Shantel, this is her story! Six years ago when she was a military mom and wife, she became the “go-to” person for women that were pregnant. Through her selfless support of other military moms, she later officially became a doula and the rest is history. After a traumatic experience with a client, Tellie decided that she wanted to be more than just support throughout birth, but also provide the high quality, nurturing care that women need during such a sensitive process. Now, as a retired veteran, doula, student midwife, and single mommy of two, Shantel is juggling MANY hats; and doing so gracefully! Take a moment to listen to Shantel’s story. As you get a glimpse into her life and experiences, you’ll learn how they’ve shaped her expertise in the area of purpose work. Through community, her support system, and love for her children, Shantel is able to pursue her dreams as a mother on a mission to succeed! She’s educating herself, and others, and her work does NOT go unnoticed! We say thank you for all that you do, and it was an honor to have you on the show! If you’d like to connect with her you can do so using the information below: -Facebook: Sincere Sekani Birth Services. | Instagram: sinceresekani.birth | Email: sinceresekani@gmail.com
Picture this, you're 17 years old, it's your senior year in high school, playing basketball, and you take a pregnancy test that comes back POSITIVE? What happens next? Honestly, for some people there isn't a "next", and their life is over. Nine years ago, Tesja believed the same; BUT listening to this story you'll learn how she overcame that mindset!In an almost 10 year time span, Tesja's life has changed drastically, and for the better. Of course she's faced many challenges, but with her husband, family, and God by her side, she's conquered them all. These days Tesja shows up as a wife, mom to four beautiful babies, Home birth and breastfeeding advocate, government contractor, AND student; with SO much more in store. Most importantly, she shows up for herself, a beautiful yet rare occurrence for so many mothers! She is the epitome of all that M.O.M.S stands for, and I hope that by listening to this episode you see just how much you can heal. grow and EVOLVE! There are NO limits, and no losses, just lessons! Learn what you must and continue on your mission to succeed! If you're moved by this episode and would like to connect with Tesja you can do so using the social media handles below:Facebook: Latesja DavisE-mail: agileconnectus@gmail.comInstagram: @_tesjaaaThanks for listening! Be sure to leave a review and rate!
Lousiana born and bred, Ranika Chaney graduated from Loyola University New Orleans with a degree in Communications-Broadcast Journalism and Sociology. Ranika is a certified Mental Health Coach, speaker for the Charlotte Mecklenburg Domestic Violence Speakers Bureau and founder of RanikaSpeaks, LLC, a service where Ranika leads her speaking engagements, coaching, hosting and facilitation obligations.Ranika is a public speaker and host who has shared her message of hope and healing with audiences across the country. She is a mother of 5, artist, faith leader, and facilitator. Her passion for public speaking has led her to inspire and empower individuals from all walks of life.She touches on topics including: faith, giftings, mindset, domestic violence and more. As an artist, Ranika expresses herself through various mediums, from spoken word to writing. As a facilitator, she brings people together to engage in meaningful dialogue and create impactful change.And as a mother, she understands the importance of nurturing and rearing the next generation.Her faith is at the core of everything she does, and she uses her platform to spread positivity and hope.Her warm and welcoming presence as a host creates a space where people feel comfortable and included. Whether she is leading a workshop, hosting a panel discussion, or delivering a keynote address, Ranika's dynamic personality and powerful message always leave a lasting impact.She is committed to creating spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued, and is dedicated to empowering others to do the same.
On this week’s episode we have Diesha Smith, a beautiful, hardworking mommy of two, and a GO-GETTER! During our time together we get DEEP as we discuss her transition from wife to divorcee, and how she’s trusted God through every transition that she and her babies have had to go through! Her story is soo powerful and hopefully inspiring as well. We also talk about her battle with infertility, and how she came out victorious with her baby boy. 💙 Diesha dropped gems that will help sooo many mommies as their on their mission to succeed. My hopes is that her authenticity and vulnerability will help you to recognize a strength within yourself that YOU can do it too, you just have to TRUST God in the mission. 💕
Bea is a wife, mother of 7, and a THRIVING business owner making sweet treats for all those who need them! She’s my FIRST guest on the M.O.M.S series, and she kicked this series off RIGHT! On this episode we talk about her journey in becoming a business owner, the changes and challenges that brought to her family, and how she continues to put herself first amidst all that she’s juggling! Bea is Mommin’ and making it happen like only she can, and you’ll hear all of that and more in this episode!! If you’d like to see Bea’s sweet treats and even book her for an event don’t hesitate to reach out using the information listed at the end of the episode! FB: Beatrice Pushia Website: Beaucreationsbybea.com
Growth has been the theme of my life lately, and while we believe it to be GRAND work, it’s really GROUND work. It’s been a process, and it’s been painful! However, as I change my perspective in the process I’m realizing that if God didn’t love me, He wouldn’t be preparing me. He’s preparing me to handle all that I’ve been praying for, just as a good Father would! If you’re GROWING through anything in this season, understand that He’s not punishing you, He’s preparing you and it’s because He loves you. Keep going & keep growing!
How are you showing up in your life, as THEE main character, or as a supporting role? On this episode I unpack the importance of starring in the movie that’s called YOUR LIFE, as we only get one! Through fears, tears and even some insecurities, you can’t keep walking around trying to appease and be the peace of everyone, while you’re left in pieces. Learn the difference between catering and serving people, and do your BEST to show up as the main character for yourself! 👸🏾 Your light is too bright NOT to shine!! 🤩 Happy listening!
This week’s episode may sound like a lesson in self-defense; but honestly it’s a lesson in overcoming self defeat! Sometimes my greatest enemy is the inner-me; and in this season I’m fighting with the power of life that lies in my tongue. By the end of this episode I pray you utilize that same power to speak over the giants you’re facing.
Waiting seasons aren’t always the greatest, but in my life they’ve proven to be rewarding. In this episode, I discuss a time in my life where I decided that starving in a season was better than filling a void for a moment. Through those message I pray you understand the sacrifices that come with staying focused, and the fulfillment that comes when you do! Happy listening! 🥳❤️
This week I talk about a new show I recently got hooked on, “Un-Prisoned”. This show not only led to a long overdue conversation, but a profound realization that has resulted in my own healing and elevation. My prayer, as you listen, is that it would do the same for you! ❤️ Happy listening! 🤗🤗
Quick question, what is your comfort costing you? God really checked me about my comfort zone, and the one thing I learned is, there’s no growth there. Do you want to grow, or so you want to be comfortable, because you can’t do both! I pray that this episode puts this into perspective for you, and that you begin to get uncomfortable, so you can walk into God’s best for you! 🫶🏾 Happy Listening! ❤️
It’s a Valentine day episode with MY LOVE, “Keese”! In this episode we talk about how we met, dated, and got into a relationship. We also discuss differently dynamics of our relationship, and answer some fun questions and of course drop gems! ❤️ I hope you enjoy this episode as much as we enjoyed recording it. Thank you for listening, and Happy Valentine’s Day! 🫶🏾💗
Lows in life are inevitable, and they’re often areas we DREAD! However, as I’ve been reflecting over 2022, one thing that God gave me is “There’s value in the valley.” 😩 In the episode I share only a FEW things I’ve learned about being in the valley, and there’s certainly more lessons to come as I continue to reflect. Im drawing nearer to God in this season, and I pray that as you listen to this , that you’re inclined to do the same! Find the value in the valley sis! ❤️
As I’m going through old episodes, I stumbled across this one that I had recorded in October 2022. It’s 3 months later, and while new year, but STILL an ON-TIME message for somebody out there. For the person that wants love from family, a friend or even a partner and you can’t seem to get it hear me when I say “You haven’t even met all the people that are going to love you yet.” You don’t have to fight for what’s meant to be given freely. I pray this episode reaches the part of your heart that’s been hurting, that way it can plant a seed of healing. I love you, even if no one else does. 🤞🏾❤️
“When someone shows you who they are, BELIEVE them” -Maya Angelou I heard this quote numerous times, but sometimes you have to learn through experience! On this episode I talk about how I learned this hard lesson, and developed a boundary that I call “The Rule of 1”. Hopefully, this is something that you adopt in your dating life, and avoid making the same mistakes that I have made! Happy listening ! ❤️🤞🏾
Let’s talk about the block button! Many have mixed feelings about it. However, in my dating life, I came to a point where I decided that if the person I was entertaining was sending mixed signals, I wasn’t going to allow them access to me. ESPECIALLY after communicating my feelings! Some feel the blocked button isn’t the best, but in this episode I talk about it was FOR the best…FOR ME. As always, I pray that this episode blesses Atleast one person, and you no longer stress about individuals that are bringing you less than the best that you deserve! 🤞🏾❤️ Happy listening! 🤗
After “The Cut” I asked God, “Now what?” How do I get through this? In this episode I talk about the journey to healing the self-inflicted wounds from a toxic relationship. It took much more tears & years than expected, but looking at the person it produced, I wouldn’t have it any other way. If you’re on the fence about leaving, or asking yourself “what will I do next?” This is the episode for you sis! Press play, and get ready to heal! ❤️🤞🏾
In life, we will all experience an experience that will change the trajectory of our lives. For me, it was “The Cut.”! God performed MAJOR heart surgery on me back in 2015, and though the healing process made me feel like I wasn’t going to make it, I DID! Growing pains produce greater fruit, you just got to keep going! I hope this episode helps you to do JUST THAT! You deserve the best sis! 🤞🏾❤️
Who taught you to date? How’d you learn what to expect, what to and not to accept? In this episode I dive deep into simply wanting to be chose; being single wanting to be a girlfriend and just how damaging it can be. Through the scars, and self-inflected wounds, I healed and realized, I’M THE CHOOSER! Never forgot it and never will!🤞🏾 I pray this episode helps you know that before any picks you, make sure YOU pick YOU sis! I love us, for real!
H.O.T Girl Summer series is HERE!! I’ll be sharing my personal experiences and lessons I learned in dating in hopes that it will help you all! This episode focuses on my initial dating experience! I’ve gone through ALOT, and I’ve GROWN through it all; and you can too sis!
“Keep your eyes on your own paper.” A phrase we learned in school that I’ve learned to apply to real life! Focusing your attention on the next person’s assignment cause’s to neglect the assignment in front of you. Your journey won’t look like theirs, your blessings won’t look like theirs, your growth won’t look like theirs but the import and thing to remember is that it’s YOURS! It always has been yours, and what God has for you will ALWAYS be for YOU! Congratulate others, collaborate if possible, and appreciate the process; it makes the promise that much more enjoyable. Happy listening! 🥰❤️
This episode was pretty H.O.T! Being honest with y’all and myself about my battle with consistency! I felt the need to pour out because I just know, I am NOT alone! Hopefully something in this episode can encourage you of that fact, and inspire you to get back on track! I know, it’s not easy, but the beautiful thing is, great things never are! Remember, What you want your life to be is on the other side of consistency! Keep going sis! 🤞🏾
If you’re single, THIS IS FOR YOU ! It’s Valentine’s week, and I know some Of you are weak in the knees, 🗣STAND UP‼️ Yea you’re single, but You deserve to be celebrated! Stand in your power, even if you’re not in love! In the words of the great J. Cole, “Love yourself girl, or nobody will!” It’s a journey, but trust me, it’s a journey worth Taking! Listen to these 4 Gems, catch them and carry them with you EVERYwhere you go baby! Happy listening ! ❤️
🗣VOLUME UP‼️ CesShay Lynch is a native of Norfolk, VA and also a mom, wife, and the SheEO of Cesshay LLC! Her exceptional skincare line, Au Skin, is produced under this umbrella as well. As a frequent supporter of her brand, I decided to sit down with her to learn the HOW behind all the she does! There were sooo many gems dropped we had to beak it into two parts! In part one, Cesshay describes her journey, and the importance of discipline and consistency! Get your and pencils out sis, and take notes because she’s dropping gems you’re going to want to catch!
If you’re anything like me, you HATE repeating yourself. Whether it be in words, or in action, redundancy can be very frustrating! HOWEVER, in this season I’m realizing that cycles create full circle moments that make you appreciate being in the same space a little while longer! In this episode, my son’s story taught me about the beauty of staying behind! Sometimes Failing and going in circles can feel like punishment, but really, it’s preparation! Do it again, and again, and again until you get what you need for where you’re going! I know it doesn’t look or feel good to be Held back, but he’s preparing you for an even greater comeback! Stay focused, stay humble, and no matter what, KEEP DOING it until YOU get it!
Who knew that cooking could result in a podcast episode! Lol! When you see God in everything, He can speak to you through ANYTHING! As you listen, I pray that you understand that the only thing that’s standing between you and your dreams becoming reality is TIME! Don’t grow weary in well doing sis/bro! It’s all apart of the process and his plan and your time is coming ! Delayed does NOT mean denied! 🤞🏾❤️
🗣Happy New Year‼️ Through reflecting, I pinpointed 6 lessons I learned in the year 2021 and I plan to carry them with me for the rest of my life! My hope is that one or maybe all of these lessons resonate with you, and you begin to carry them with you throughout this year! Let me know your favorite! Happy listening loves! 🤞🏾❤️
HAPPY NEW YEAR!! Shawana Speaks has something “new” for you this year! We’re bringing on GUESTS! Huge shoutout to Justin Drayton for showing up, and bringing us gems on mindset, motivation, and inspiring the dreamer in us! Listen as he and I speak! I hope you grab a gem and carry with you all 2022!
This week has been…interesting to say the least! I’ve learned many lessons, unlocked levels, and revealed devils that I’m still dealing with but the ONE thing I’m reminded of is “there’s more!” Regardless if you’re experiencing great times or not so great, Every trial, challenge, and experience only comes to produce the best version of you! I pray that this episode blesses you and you start believing that, no matter who or what comes or goes; THERE’S MORE! 🤗
I know you’re wondering, “What’s the significance in these two?” The real question is, have you ever taken the time to recognize the difference? In this episode, I explain how we, as people, are like these objects. And most importantly, I discuss the importance of being the former, and not the latter! As always, I pray this episode helps you in some way; and that you begin to ask yourself “Which one am I?”
I know we all want to be healed, but I want all of us to recognize that the journey to wholeness comes with a process! In this episode I share my personal journey of healing, and talk about my constant struggle with imposter syndrome as well. I pray you’re encouraged by something that was said, and continue working on being the best you! No matter what, DON’T GIVE UP! Remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint! You got this sis! 😍
I’ve lived long enough to realize, last place isn’t as bad as we make it seem. Last holds many lessons, we just have to make the conscious decision to learn them. Listen to the lessons I learned, and hopefully you can recognize a few you’ve learned as well! Happy listening! 🤗
You ever felt like 🎶Sis you doing a good job…🎶 and then something happens, and you think “Dang, I might not be doing as I thought.” Sis, you’re not alone! My reaction to a recent situation made me realize, progress is a process and patience is necessary! Extend some grace to yourself and let this episode remind you, He’s Not Through With Us Yet! ❤️
I’m not really sure if you knew this sis, but you’re worth it. This week I was reminded of that fact, and had to walk in it for myself! Prayerfully, after this episode you won’t let people or circumstances cause you to settle for a lifestyle less than what you want AND you’re deserving of! Say this with me, “I’m Worth It!” 💪🏾
I know I’ve been gone for a while, but I can explain! Listen to this episode as I bring you up to speed in all that I’ve had going on, and how the refresHER retreat brought me to this point! Happy listening ! ❤️
Hey sis, 🗣be you, do you, FOR YOU! On this episode I share how I’ve FINALLY reached a place in my life where I recognize how important it is to simply be me. I’m at peace with every piece of my story, and living in my truth means showing up to every situation FULLY! I encourage you to do the same! God is not impressed by the person you pretend to be! Someone is connected to your light, your gifts and talents! Do your best to be the best version of yourself! Trust me, the world needs a you!
Being disciplined as a child was something I ran away from. As an adult, and especially in this season, it’s something I’m walking right into, and doing so boldly. I’m learning it doesn’t have to feel good, to be for my good! Praying this episode helps you make discipline a choice and not something that has to be forced on you!
Being single, it’s hard not to have fun, but we have to make sure we’re not putting the “fun” in dysFUNction! In this episode I’ll share my personal experience with Fun, and how I came to the conclusion that a foundation is much more important, than having and being the girl that’s “F.U.N”!
That week Shawana gives you insight in her season of transition, the importance of being intentional with what you fix your attention on! By the end of this episode, Prayerfully you understand that God STILL has a plan for you and the life He’s given you, even in the midst of pain!
Perfection is often portrayed, but never possessed! No one is perfect, and guess what, they’re not supposed to be! Take a moment to listen to Shawana speak on her journey to self discovery, and being herself, FULLY!
This is my first episode, and I chose production over perfection!! What does that mean? It means that I decided to stop waiting for the right time, and realized the time is right when I decide to simply START! I pressed record, and this is what happened! No notes, just knowledge and truth! I’m excited to start this journey with you all! Let’s start !!