Summary:

In this episode of Emboldened with Jessica, host Jessica Jackson a Decolonizing Somatic Therapist, sits down with special guest Madeline Ammar, an Afroecletic Queer Somatic Therapist, and cosmic Faerie, to dive into the complex and emotional world of family estrangement. Together, they explore the reasons behind family conflicts, the challenges of going no contact, and the grief that often accompanies these decisions.

This conversation illuminates the importance of self-care, setting boundaries, and protecting one's peace, especially during times like the holidays. Jessica and Madeline also discuss practical ways to navigate difficult family dynamics, find community and considerations on reconnecting with estranged family members.

This episode highlights the experience of family estrangement for Queer folx, and people of color. If you're feeling isolated or unsure about how to navigate or support a loved one with strained family dynamics this holiday season, this conversation is for YOU. ❤️

Chapters:

00:00 Navigating Family Estrangement During the Holidays

02:51 Understanding Estrangement: Causes and Dynamics

06:09 The Process of Going No Contact

08:55 Breaking the Cycle of Family Conflict

12:10 Grief and Expectations in Family Relationships

15:06 Handling Guilt and External Pressures

17:52 Protecting Your Peace During Family Gatherings

21:01 Reconnecting with Estranged Family Members

24:08 Volunteering and Building Community

26:53 Final Thoughts on Estrangement and Healing

Madeline Ammar, LCSW's Contact:

Instagram: @Reishi_Somatics

Website: Psychology Today Profile

Jessica’s Cozy Book Nook - Bookshop

1. Mother Hunger: How Adult Daughters Can Understand and Heal from Lost Nurturance, Protection, and Guidance by Kelly McDaniel- Bookshop

2. Children of the Self-absorbed: A Grown-Up's Guide to Getting Over Narcissistic Parents by Nina W. Brown - Bookshop

3. Drama Free: A Guide to Managing Unhealthy Family Relationships by Nedra Glover Tawwab - Bookshop

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson, LCPC, ASDCS

Guest: Madeline Ammar, LCSW

Produced by: Jessica & Ariele

Edited by: Ariele

Stay Connected:

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

FaceBook @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Youtube: @EmboldenedwithJessica

In this episode of 'Emboldened with Jessica', the conversation explores the intricate relationship between fashion and personal style, emphasizing how they shape identity and self-expression. The hosts discuss the evolving definitions of fashion and style, the societal implications of clothing choices, and the importance of comfort and confidence in personal expression. The episode also features an insightful interview with Justin Michael Hendricks, who discusses the intersection of fashion, community, and social justice, particularly within the context of ballroom culture and empowerment.

We explore the intersection of fashion and personal identity. Our wardrobe choices serve as a visual representation of who we are, conveying messages of confidence and individuality.

Wearing what makes us feel good can significantly enhance our mental well-being. We'll also discuss the evolving nature of personal style in the context of social media and inclusivity, focusing on the stories behind trends rather than just the trends themselves.

Joining us is special guest Justin Michael Hendricks, a prominent figure and advocate for social justice, and bringing ballroom culture to central Illinois. Together, we'll examine how fashion can act as a tool for activism and community empowerment.

So, grab your drink and join us as we delve into dressing with purpose and the profound impact it can have on our lives. Remember, style reflects who you are, and feeling good in your skin is paramount. Let's get started!

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Fashion and Personal Style

03:00 Defining Fashion vs. Style

06:09 The Impact of Style on Identity and Perception

09:00 Fashion, Gender, and Social Norms

11:49 Sustainability and Accessibility in Fashion

15:14 The Role of Alter Egos in Personal Expression

18:09 Interview with Justin Michael Hendricks

25:01 Community and Fashion as a Tool for Empowerment

32:01 The Be Yourself Ball and Ballroom Culture

To follow Justin Michael Hendrix's grassroots organization HitNHomeBoy

Food can be donated to 102 N. Neil St. Champaign IL. 61820

Government Municipality Building

Venmo: @HitNHomeboy88

CashApp: $HitNHomeboy88

Instagram: HITNHOMEBOY

Facebook: HITNHOMEBOY

Twitter: HITNHOMEBOY

Jessica’s Cozy Book Nook - Bookshop

Julián Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love - Bookshop

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson, LCPC, ASDCS

Guest: Justin Michael Hendricks

Produced by: Ariele & Jessica

Edited by: Ariele

Stay Connected:

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Facebook: @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Youtube: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Summary:

Hey, Emboldened Fam! 🌟 We're back with Part 2 of our deep dive into what it means to be "That Girl" – the unapologetically confident, radiant, and unapologetically YOU! 💁🏾‍♀️✨

In This Episode:

💖 Gratitude Practice: Discover how expressing gratitude daily can boost your mental and physical well-being. Whether it's through journaling or reflection, learn the power of appreciation.

💃🏽 Embrace Your Confidence: Dive into the concept of "Being That Girl" – owning your shine and not dimming your light for anyone. It's time to walk tall and celebrate your full, beautiful self!

🪞 Self-Acceptance and Body Positivity: Let’s talk self-love! Learn practical tips for embracing your body and shutting down negative self-talk.

📚 Book Recommendations: Get Jessica’s top book picks to inspire your journey of self-growth and empowerment.

🚧 Setting Boundaries: Understand the importance of setting healthy boundaries and surrounding yourself with positive, uplifting relationships.

Jessica’s Cozy Book Nook - Bookshop

1. You’re that Bitch by Bretman Rock - Bookshop

2. Girl Gurl Grrrl: On Womanhood and Belonging in the Age of Black Girl Magic by Kenya Hunt - Bookshop

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson

Produced by: Ariele & Jessica

Edited by: Ariele

Stay Connected:

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

FaceBook @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Youtube: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Summary:

"That Girl" is the confident, stylish, and unapologetically authentic version of yourself. Join Jessica and the highly anticipated return of Lisa Holmes as they discuss the journey into becoming "That Girl". 🌟

Together, they dive into the journey of understanding and standing in your power, exploring what it means to truly know your worth. Lisa shares a transformative moment in her life when she realized she would want to date herself, and how this revelation changed her perspective on relationships and self-love. 💕✨

They also chat about the importance of daily practices like expressing gratitude and celebrating yourself – because you deserve it! 🎉 Jessica and Lisa discuss the impact of surrounding yourself with a supportive squad that lifts you up and celebrates your uniqueness.

The episode wraps up with some practical tips on building self-esteem and recognizing your own value. Whether you're on a self-love journey or just looking for a boost of inspiration, this conversation is filled with wisdom, laughs, and a lot of love. ❤️

Listen now and join the conversation! 🎙️✨

High 5 Strength Test - https://high5test.com/

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson

Guest: Lisa Holmes

Produced by: Ariele & Jessica

Edited by: Ariele

Stay Connected:

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

FaceBook @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Youtube: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Catch Jessica Jackson in this bite-sized episode as she unpacks the pressure to shrink your body for summer and the societal narratives around it. Through Jessica’s health journey, she highlights the lifestyle switches that boosted her health. Jessica and Ariele tackling the often overlooked topic of perimenopause to the influence of social media on our body image. Jessica touches on the role of social media and weighs in on some of the latest fitness trends like rebounders and vibration plates.

Takeaways:

• The pressure to have a 'summer body' can lead to body shame, but it's important to embrace and cherish your body as it is.

• Taking care of your overall health, including physical and mental well-being, is essential.

• Lifestyle changes such as incorporating more vegetables and fruits, increasing movement, and reducing alcohol consumption can have a positive impact on health.

• Perimenopause is a phase that can bring hormonal and bodily changes, and it's important to be aware of and address the symptoms.

• Social media can influence our choices and introduce us to new fitness trends, such as the rebounder and migration plate.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Summer Body Pressure

02:19 Taking Care of Your Health

03:49 Navigating Perimenopause

07:57 Influence of Social Media and Fitness Trends

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson

Produced by: Ariele & Jessica Jackson

Edited by: Ariele

Stay Connected:

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

FaceBook @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Youtube: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Summary:

Brace yourselves for an honest and hilarious chat with Jessica and Ariele as we dive into the summer dating scene and the art of being 'outside'. Jessica breaks down the essentials of setting clear intentions and being real with yourself and your dates. We also discuss the importance of setting ground rules with friends to keep everyone safe while having fun. From reconnecting with exes ('circling the block') to dealing with guys who expect financial indulgence ('drizzle drizzle'), and being upfront about what you want ('applying pressure'), this episode covers it all. Tune in as we wrap up with a lively discussion on the traits we crave in a summer fling. This is your go-to guide for a summer of love, laughter, and liberation!

Takeaways:

• Be aware of your intentions for dating and be honest with yourself and others.

• Set ground rules with friends for safety while being outside.

• Consider 'circling the block' (reconnecting with an ex) and 'applying pressure' (being direct about what you want) in dating.

• Consider your desired traits for who you’re dating

Chapters:

00:00 Dating in the Summer: Being 'Outside'

01:34 Setting Intentions and Being Honest

07:31 Exploring 'Circling the Block' and 'Applying Pressure'

13:59 Desired Traits for a Summer Partner

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson

Produced by: Ariele

Edited by: Ariele

Stay Connected:

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

FaceBook @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Youtube: @EmboldenedwithJessica

In this episode, Jessica and Ariele dive deep into the world of friendships, exploring their significance, various levels, and the challenges they bring. They start by sharing statistics that highlight the importance of friendships for overall well-being. They discuss different tiers or levels of friendships, ranging from acquaintances to intimate friends, and emphasize the importance of recognizing the differences between these levels. The conversation also touches on the concept of "social fitness" and the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in building and maintaining friendships.

The hosts share personal anecdotes and insights into navigating friendships, including the impact of life changes, trauma bonding, and evolving dynamics over time. They also address common issues such as prioritizing romantic relationships over friendships and the importance of clear communication and boundaries in maintaining healthy friendships.

Throughout the episode, Jessica and Ariele encourage listeners to reflect on their own friendships, considering what they bring to the table and how they can improve as friends. They emphasize the value of self-compassion and celebration of the ways in which individuals show up for their friends.

Stay Connected:

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

FaceBook @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Youtube: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson

Produced by: Ariele

Edited by: Ariele

Jessica’s Cozy Book Nook - Bookshop

Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes - Bookshop

Stay Connected:

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Youtube: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson

Produced by: Jessica & Ariele

Edited by: Ariele