Welcome to Season 5, Episode 1 of Woke Mommy Chatter, the podcast where we speak on the raw truths of Black motherhood. I'm Kearie Daniel. In this opening episode, I had the honor of conversing with the incredible Dr. Christiana Awosan, a Marriage and Family Therapist and an Associate Professor, whose work deeply resonates with our mission here. We delved into the heart of racial trauma and its ripple effects on our personal and communal relationships.

My journey, much like many of yours, has been a labyrinth of activism, especially in the aftermath of the George Floyd incident. It’s been a path of emotional exhaustion and the constant battle against systemic racism. Sharing my story, I opened up about the immense weight of this fight, a sentiment that I know many of you can relate to. Dr. Awosan, with her profound insights, shed light on how this racial trauma isn't just a personal battle but one that weaves through the very fabric of our relationships.

Our conversation took a significant turn when we tackled the often-misunderstood topic of Black love and interracial relationships. Dr. Awosan demystified several misconceptions, focusing on the importance of representation and the historical context of Black relationships. It was a refreshing perspective that challenged the stereotypical narratives we often see in the media.

One of the most impactful moments of our discussion was when Dr. Awosan spoke about the importance of not over-functioning in response to racial trauma. She urged us to find balance, to center ourselves, and not push our children or ourselves to overachieve as a means of combating racism. It’s about self-acceptance and doing our best, a message that I believe is crucial for us as Black mothers.

We wrapped up with a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility in addressing racial trauma. It’s not just on us as Black individuals but also on our white counterparts to actively engage and contribute to these crucial conversations.

As always, I’m grateful for the shared stories and wisdom from our guests and from you, our listeners. Here’s to another season of Woke Mommy Chatter, where we continue to uncover, challenge, and grow through our shared experiences of Black motherhood. Remember, in the midst of our struggle, there is incredible strength and resilience. Let's keep the conversation going

Bellamy Shoffner is a social entrepreneur, writer, blogger living in Charlottesville.  Bellamy and I first connected for the podcast, a few years ago to discuss her magazine Hold The Line.  That first conversation has turned into annual check in’s- as we both navigate Black motherhood and social activism. In this conversation Bellamy and I chat about George Floyd, the protest his death have ignited, our frustration with sudden allyship- including the inclusive lessons teachers are now sending home and defunding the police.

BLACK LIVES MATTER 

This week, I am finishing up my chat with Nefertiti Austin, author of Motherhood So White:  A Memoir of Race, Gender and Parenting in America. 

This week, I am chatting to Nefertiti Austin. Author of Motherhood So White:  A Memoir of Race, Gender and Parenting in America. 

Stay tuned at the end for a preview of part two of our conversation. 

I also reference the group Parents of Black Children. You can learn more here: www.parentsofblackchildren.org

I'm so excited to bring you Season 4 of the podcast.

This is a mini epsiode.  Just an introduction to the season and a special chat with the little madam!  She drops some home truths on this woke mommy.

I referenced the advocacy group I started with a number of amazing Black moms, - check out the website.  If you are interested in starting a chapter - connect with me!  Let's take this global!  www.parentsofblackchildren.org

In the Season 3 finale, I continue my chat with Kim Williams, host of the Single Black Motherhood Podcast,gets real about Black Single Motherhood.  We chat about the single Black Fathers she ha interviewed, some of her highs and lows as a single mom and her hopes for the future.

A few articles mentioned in the podcast can be found here:

https://www.thestar.com/life/parent/2016/10/25/please-dont-call-me-a-single-mother.html

Black Dads Involved in Kids Lives 

https://www.huffingtonpost.com/josh-levs/no-most-black-kids-are-no_b_11109876.html 

There are so many stereotypes about Single Black Motherhood.  In this episode, Kim Williams, host of the Single Black Motherhood Podcast,gets real about Black Single Motherhood.  We chat about anti-Black sentiment around single mothers, the challenges and triumphs and we also chat about how stereotypes about Black Mothers, affect Black Fathers.

A few articles mentioned in the podcast can be found here:

https://www.thestar.com/life/parent/2016/10/25/please-dont-call-me-a-single-mother.html

Black Dads Involved in Kids Lives 

https://www.huffingtonpost.com/josh-levs/no-most-black-kids-are-no_b_11109876.html 

Jeff Martin, Author, Police Officer, Father and Motivational Speaker chats about his new book, Brothers/Sisters from the 6: Role Models in my Community, the importance of giving back, wh he decided to be a police officer and why representation matters. 

Jeff is doing amazing work. You can find him at:jeffadmartin.com

"Hi Auntie"   We are talking, aunties in the Black community, particularly Aunties without children of their own, the role they play in the Black family, the complicated family dynamics, the toll that role takes on them and why Aunties are so important to the Black community. 

This week, I am joined by Judie Powell, a friend and colleague who is an Auntie to 4 little and little-ish people, and Maria Daniel, my sister, who is an Auntie to two little people. 

Deuces 2018!   On the last episode of the year, we are looking back at Hold The Line Magazine 1 year on, with Creator and  Editor in Chief extraordinaire Bellamy Shoffner.  Bellamy and I reflect on 2018, we talk about what it is to be Young-ish and creating content for the masses as Black mothers and the toll it takes on us and we chat about white allies.  Is allyship really a thing...and is it effective?