#258: What does your wardrobe really say about you? How can you use fashion to express your truest self?

In today’s solo episode, I’m sharing insights from my 30-day style challenge. From daily dressing practices to mixing and matching styles in my closet, I’ll share practical tips on how you can communicate who you are through your personal style.

The way we present ourselves can communicate a lot to the outside world. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to elevate your fashion game, I’m walking through ways you can own your narrative.

I also talk about…

• How to reinvent your personal style on a budget
• Tips for intentionally going through your closet
• Easy ways to feel more put together
• Using your style to tell your own story
• Expressing yourself practically within your lifestyle

Resources:

• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Come to Balanced Black Girl Live on Oct 21st in NYC!
• Episode 249: Beauty and Style Favorites for Fall 2024
• Episode 253: How to Win at Life: The Mindset Shift You Need to Level Up
• Episode 245: The Secret to Getting Everything You Want: Archetype Embodiment
• Episode 244: How to Start Over in Your 30s

Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:

• Watch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirl
• Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merch
• Follow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcast
• Follow on TikTok @balancedles
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Sponsors:

• LMNT | LMNT is a zero sugar electrolyte drink mix with a research-backed ratio of electrolytes. To try it out go to drinkLMNT.com/balancedles to receive a free LMNT sample pack with any purchase.
• DEINDE is the first bio-based skincare line to target inflammaging. Help preserve your skin's collagen and elastin with 15% off your first order at DEINDE.com using BALANCEDLES
• Elevance Health | Act now to improve your health and quality of life by exploring health insurance coverage. Visit www.myhealthbenefitfinder.com and utilize expert advice from Anthem by calling at (888) 811-2101.
• Bobbi Brown | Bobbi Brown Weightless Skin Foundation feels like nothing on your skin. Discover your perfect shade at Bobbibrown.com
• Boka | Health starts with your mouth. For a limited time, Boka is offering listeners 15% off its best-selling toothpastes on Amazon and boka.com with code BALANCED15.
• Philadelphia Cream Cheese | Philadelphia makes everything creamier. Visit creamcheese.com for recipe inspiration and to purchase Philadelphia Cream Cheese so you can start adding it to your recipes at home!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#257: Have you ever wondered how to elevate your brand or business? Are you ready to take your vision to new heights? Now is the time to bet on yourself!

In today’s episode, I’m sitting down with Amira Rasool, Founder and CEO of The Folklore, to discuss how to build a global business from the ground up.

Together, we discuss the secrets of creating an empowering brand and how to keep your vision big and bold! Amira shares valuable insights on evolving your business and attracting new investors in today's market.

We Also Talk About…

• Amira’s journey from fashion editor to global business founder and CEO
• Why making waves as a Black entrepreneur matters and how to navigate the challenges
• Start up advice and hacks to supercharge your business growth
• How to source products and collaborate with brands worldwide
• How to attract international shoppers like a pro
• Turning setbacks into comebacks as a business owner

Resources:

• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Come to Balanced Black Girl Live on Oct 21st in NYC.
• Follow Amira on Instagram @amirarasool
• Follow the Folklore on Instagram @thefolklore
• Check out shop.thefolklore.com and upcoming sip-n-shop events near you!
• Read Dopamine Detox : A Short Guide to Remove Distractions and Get Your Brain to Do Hard Things by Thibaut Meurisse
• Listen to episode 255: How to Win at Life: The Mindset Shift You Need to Level Up

Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:

• Watch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirl
• Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merch
• Follow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcast
• Follow on TikTok @balancedles
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Sponsors:

• Biosil | Get 30% off your first order of Biosil. Visit biosil.beauty and enter the code BALANCEDLES.
• Goodr | Stylish sunglasses starting at $25 a pair! Go to goodr.com/balancedles and use code BALANCEDLES for free shipping
• Caraway | Their internet famous cookware set comes with a Sauté Pan, Fry Pan, Dutch Oven and Sauce Pan. Plus, lids for all of them, a canvas lid holder and magnetic pan rack for storage! It’s the ultimate kitchen set-up and will save you $150 versus buying the items individually. Visit Carawayhome.com/balancedles to take an additional 10% off your next purchase.
• Philadelphia Cream Cheese | Philadelphia makes everything creamier. Visit creamcheese.com for recipe inspiration and to purchase Philadelphia Cream Cheese so you can start adding it to your recipes at home!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#256: Have you ever felt the thrill—and terror—of speaking in front of an audience? Public speaking can cause a whirlwind of emotions in seconds!

In today’s episode, we’ll discuss the art of public speaking– how to manage nerves, the crucial role of preparation and feedback, and practical tips to help you speak with confidence.

I also talk about…

• My experience transitioning from corporate public speaking to full-time podcasting
• Tips for feeling comfortable in front of an audience
• Overcoming the fear of being seen and heard
• The difference between being a good talker and a good speaker
• Tactical strategies for finding public speaking opportunities
• Moderator tips for speaking effectively at events

Resources:

• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Come to Balanced Black Girl Live on Oct 21st in NYC.
• Episode 253: How to Win at Life: The Mindset Shift You Need to Level Up
• Episode 247: How to Stop Caring About What Other People Think
• Episode 227: How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome, Manifest Dream Opportunities, and Navigate Life’s Pivots with Kirsten Ferguson

Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:

• Watch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirl
• Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merch
• Follow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcast
• Follow on TikTok @balancedles
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Sponsors:

• Shopify | Get your online business up and running with Shopify. Sign up for $1 per month trial period at shopify.com/balancedblackgirl.
• Thrive Market | Save time and money by shopping with Thrive Market. Visit thrivemarket.com/balancedles for 30% off plus a free $60 gift.
• Nutrafol | Get results that you can run your fingers through! For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering $10 OFF your first month’s subscription and free shipping when you go to nutrafol.com and enter promo code BALANCEDLES.
• Smartwater | Smartwater alkaline will keep you hydrated throughout your active life– whether you’re running miles or running meetings. To try it out visit drinksmartwater.com.
• Paleovalley | Paleovalley Organ Complex is oderless, tasetless, and contains 3 nutrient dense organ meats (liver, kidney & heart) from grass-fed cows, where most organ supplements contain just liver. Go to paleovalley.com/balancedles, or use code BALANCEDLES at check out for 15% off your first purchase.
• Philadelphia Cream Cheese | Philadelphia makes everything creamier. Visit creamcheese.com for recipe inspiration and to purchase Philadelphia Cream Cheese so you can start adding it to your recipes at home!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#255: Today’s episode is brought to you by Elevance Health. Ever felt lost trying to navigate the maze of health insurance? You’re not alone! Understanding what health insurance covers and what your options are can get incredibly confusing.

In this episode, I’m joined by Tita Stewart, the Staff Vice President, Growth and Engagement from Elevance Health to break down the essentials of health insurance in an easy-to-understand way to prepare you for Annual Enrollment this fall.

Whether you’re new to health insurance or just seeking clarity, Tita offers straightforward advice on maximizing your coverage and avoiding common pitfalls.

We Also Talk About…

• Types of health insurance plans
• How to maximize your policy benefits
• Why health insurance is expensive
• How to apply for health insurance and where to compare plans online

Resources:

• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Go to myhealthbenefitfinder.com to find out which benefits you qualify for.
• Download Anthem’s Sydney app for fast and convenient access to your health insurance information.
• Check out www.healthcare.gov to enroll in health insurance and compare plans.

Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:

• Watch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirl
• Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merch
• Follow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcast
• Follow on TikTok @balancedles
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Sponsors:

Act now to improve your health and quality of life by exploring health insurance coverage. Visit www.myhealthbenefitfinder.com and utilize expert advice from Anthem by calling at (888) 811-2101

Produced by Dear Media.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#254: Ever wondered how to transform your routines and achieve real growth?

In this episode, I sit down with fitness entrepreneur, master pilates instructor, and Love is Blind alum Raven Ross for an insightful conversation on how to build a lasting relationship with wellness.

Raven shares insights and tips on how she revamped her daily habits and routines, tackled the challenges of moving to a new city, and navigated personal growth in her mindset and social life in order to live a more fulfilling life.

We Also Talk About…

• How Raven turned her passion for dance into a full-time wellness and fitness career
• How to find the right Pilates class and instructor
• Why Pilates is a great way for women to strengthen their core muscles
• Understanding when it's time to make changes in your wellness journey
• Embracing seasons of solitude as an opportunity to redefine your path

Resources:

• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Follow Raven on Instagram @pilatesbodyraven
• Follow Raven on TikTok @pilatesbodyraven
• Check out Raven’s Fall in Luv with U pilates challenge starting Sept. 28, 2024
• Come to Balanced Black Girl Live on Oct 21st in NYC.

Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:

• Watch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirl
• Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merch
• Follow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcast
• Follow on TikTok @balancedles
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Sponsors:

• Alo Moves | Try Alo Moves for 30 days free, and get 20% off an annual membership. Visit alomoves.com and use code BALANCED30.
• LMNT | LMNT is a zero sugar electrolyte drink mix with a research-backed ratio of electrolytes. To try it out go to drinkLMNT.com/balancedles to receive a free LMNT sample pack with any purchase.
• Biosil | Get 30% off your first order of Biosil. Visit biosil.beauty and enter the code BALANCEDLES.
• Quince | Get quiet luxury without luxury prices at Quince. Go to quince.com/balancedles for free shipping and 365-day return on your next order.
• Boka | Health starts with your mouth. For a limited time, Boka is offering listeners 15% off its best-selling toothpastes on Amazon and boka.com with code BALANCED15.
• Philadelphia Cream Cheese | Philadelphia makes everything creamier. Visit creamcheese.com for recipe inspiration and to purchase Philadelphia Cream Cheese so you can start adding it to your recipes at home!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#253: Feeling stuck or not quite where you want to be? Wondering how to break free from those mental blocks and finally reach your goals?

In this solo episode, I’m sharing the mindset hacks that can totally transform your life. Learn how small changes can make a big difference, overcome self-doubt, boost your confidence, and more to help you level up and start winning at life!

Resources:

• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Listen to “The Journaling Practice That Changed My Life: Best Case Scenario Journaling” episode

Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:

• Watch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirl
• Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merch
• Follow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcast
• Follow on TikTok @balancedles
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Sponsors:

• Quince | Get quiet luxury without luxury prices at Quince. Go to quince.com/balancedles for free shipping and 365-day return on your next order.
• Qualia | Resist aging at the cellular level and try Qualia Senolytic. Go to qualialife.com/balancedles for up to 50% off and use code BALANCEDLES at checkout for an additional 15% off.
• Goodwipes | If you want to upgrade your bathroom ritual, grab Goodwipes at Target, Walmart, Kroger, Amazon, and most local grocery stores!
• Smartwater | Smartwater alkaline will keep you hydrated throughout your active life– whether you’re running miles or running meetings. To try it out visit drinksmartwater.com
• Caraway | Their internet famous cookware set comes with a Sauté Pan, Fry Pan, Dutch Oven and Sauce Pan. Plus, lids for all of them, a canvas lid holder and magnetic pan rack for storage! It’s the ultimate kitchen set-up and will save you $150 versus buying the items individually. Visit Carawayhome.com/balancedles to take an additional 10% off your next purchase.
• Paleovalley | Paleovalley Organ Complex is oderless, tasetless, and contains 3 nutrient dense organ meats (liver, kidney & heart) from grass-fed cows, where most organ supplements contain just liver. Go to paleovalley.com/balancedles, or use code BALANCEDLES at check out for 15% off your first purchase.

Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

Produced by Dear Media.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#252: Just made a big move and feeling a bit lost? Struggling to find your groove in a new city or handle the stress of starting fresh?

In today’s episode, I chat with TV and podcast host and producer, Kamie Crawford. We talk about her transition to bicoastal living, evolving your wellness routine based on your season of life, how she handles career ups and downs, and her tips for adjusting to a new environment.

We Talk About…

• Kamie’s bicoastal transition between LA and NYC
• How to cope with relocation
• Kamie’s hormone balancing journey
• Taking care of yourself during seasons of work stress
• Dating advice and setting standards for yourself in a new city
• Trusting your intuition and living with no regrets
• How to say ‘no’ in a world that demands your yes

Resources:

• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Follow Kamie on Instagram @kamiecrawford
• Follow Kamie on TikTok @kamiecrawford
• Listen to Kamie’s podcast Relationsh*t

Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:

• Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merch
• Watch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirl
• Follow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcast
• Follow on TikTok @balancedles
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com
• 
  

Sponsors:

• LMNT | LMNT is a zero sugar electrolyte drink mix with a research-backed ratio of electrolytes. To try it out go to drinkLMNT.com/balancedles to receive a free LMNT sample pack with any purchase.
• Biosil | Get 30% off your first order of Biosil. Visit biosil.beauty and enter the code BALANCEDLES.
• Philadelphia Cream Cheese | Philadelphia makes everything creamier. Visit creamcheese.com for recipe inspiration and to purchase Philadelphia Cream Cheese so you can start adding it to your recipes at home!
• Vionic Shoes | The Vionic Vitals collection has the best essential styles for everyday wear to get you ready for the season. Use code BALANCEDLES at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. One-time use only.
• Smartwater | Smartwater alkaline will keep you hydrated throughout your active life– whether you’re running miles or running meetings. To learn more visit drinksmartwater.com
• Bobbi Brown | Bobbi Brown Weightless Skin Foundation feels like nothing on your skin. Discover your perfect shade at Bobbibrown.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#251: Fall is almost here, and it's the perfect time to hit the refresh button!

In this solo episode, I’ll share simple and enjoyable ways to revamp your wellness routine as we head into fall. We’ll cover everything from decluttering and boosting healthy habits to finding joy in the little things. Plus, I’ll offer clever tips to help you manage your time effortlessly.

Let’s get ready to embrace the new season with a refreshed mind and spirit!

Resources:

• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les

Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:

• Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merch
• Watch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirl
• Follow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcast
• Follow on TikTok @balancedles
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Sponsors:

• Shopify | Get your online business up and running with Shopify. Sign up for $1 per month trial period at shopify.com/balancedblackgirl
• Bobbi Brown | Bobbi Brown Weightless Skin Foundation feels like nothing on your skin. Discover your perfect shade at Bobbibrown.com
• Goodr | Stylish sunglasses starting at $25 a pair! Go to goodr.com/balancedles and use code BALANCEDLES for free shipping
• Paleovalley | Palleovalley Organ Complex is a great way to get the nutritional benefits of organ meats without having to eat them. Go to paleovalley.com/balancedles, or use code BALANCEDLES at check out for 15% off.
• Philadelphia Cream Cheese | Philadelphia makes everything creamier. Visit creamcheese.com for recipe inspiration and to purchase Philadelphia Cream Cheese so you can start adding it to your recipes at home!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#250: What if, instead of chasing perfection, we focused on the valuable lessons learned along the way?

In this special solo episode, I'm celebrating my 35th birthday by sharing 35 impactful lessons I've learned from my experiences with wellness routines, relationships, career development, and more.

Whether you're marking a milestone or simply searching for inspiration, join me for a heartfelt discussion on how to embrace growth, overcome challenges, and uncover the true sources of happiness for your life.

Catch up on these related episodes:

• How to Get Unstuck: My 25 by 25 Case Study

Resources:

• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les

Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:

• Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merch
• Watch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirl
• Follow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcast
• Follow on TikTok @balancedles
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Sponsors:

• Alo Moves | Try Alo Moves for 30 days free, and get 20% off an annual membership. Visit alomoves.com and use code BALANCED30.
• Biosil | Get 30% off your first order of Biosil. Visit biosil.beauty and enter the code BALANCEDLES.
• Bobbi Brown | Bobbi Brown Weightless Skin Foundation feels like nothing on your skin. Discover your perfect shade at Bobbibrown.com
• Caraway | Their internet famous cookware set comes with a Sauté Pan, Fry Pan, Dutch Oven and Sauce Pan. Plus, lids for all of them, a canvas lid holder and magnetic pan rack for storage! It’s the ultimate kitchen set-up and will save you $150 versus buying the items individually. Visit Carawayhome.com/balancedles to take an additional 10% off your next purchase.

Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

Produced by Dear Media.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#249: As we age, our beauty and style preferences naturally evolve. Navigating these changes can be both exciting and challenging, especially when it comes to finding what works best for you.

In today’s solo episode, I’m sharing my current beauty and style favorites that are making a difference in my routine. From essential maintenance tips to the top products for enhancing your hair and skin, I’m sharing everything I’m loving plus, I’ll reveal some secret clothing style hacks that will transform your self-expression and elevate your overall look.

Join me as we explore how to embrace and enhance your unique beauty as you grow from your 20s into your 30s and beyond!

Catch up on these related episodes:

• Episode 246: Unexpected Self-Care Hacks That Will Upgrade Your Life
• Episode 240: Your Summer Glow-Up Plan: How to Become Your Healthiest, Hottest Self

Resources:

• Get the full list of products mentioned in this episode on ShopMy
• If you’re in LA, check out Ashley Lundy for skin enhancements
• Check out Nuuly clothing rental (try code BALANCEDLES20 for $20 off your first month if code is still active)
• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les

Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:

• Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merch
• Watch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirl
• Follow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcast
• Follow on TikTok @balancedles
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Sponsors:

• Goodwipes | If you want to upgrade your bathroom ritual, grab Goodwipes at Target, Walmart, Kroger, Amazon, and most local grocery stores!
• Qualia | Resist aging at the cellular level and try Qualia Senolytic. Go to qualialife.com/balancedles for up to 50% off and use code BALANCEDLES at checkout for an additional 15% off.
• Quince | Get quiet luxury without luxury prices at Quince. Go to quince.com/balancedles for free shipping and 365-day return on your next order.
• Smartwater | Smartwater alkaline will keep you hydrated throughout your active life– whether you’re running miles or running meetings. To try it out visit drinksmartwater.com
• Bobbi Brown | Bobbi Brown Weightless Skin Foundation feels like nothing on your skin. Discover your perfect shade at Bobbibrown.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#248: Journaling can seem intimidating, but guess what—there’s no right or wrong way to do it!

In this solo episode, I’ll walk you through the essentials of best case scenario journaling and help you create a practice that fits your unique needs.

We’ll also explore how to use guided prompts, choose accessible tools, and develop rituals that make journaling a powerful practice for achieving your goals.

Catch up on these related episodes:

• Episode 239: How to Start Journaling & Benefits of Having a Journaling Practice with Nya Jones of Inside Then Out
• Episode 96: Benefits of Journaling, Tips and Tricks for Establishing a Journaling Practice, and How to Journal Consistently

Resources:

• Download the Best Case Scenario journal prompt
• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Check out “The Artist Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity” by Julia Cameron
• Read “Thank You, More Please: A Feminist Guide to Breaking Dumb Dating Rules and Finding Love” by Lily Womble

Keep in touch with Balanced Black Girl:

• Shop limited-edition Balanced Black Girl merch
• Watch on YouTube @BalancedBlackGirl
• Follow on IG: @balancedles @balancedblackgirlpodcast
• Follow on TikTok @balancedles
• Visit our website at balancedblackgirl.com

Sponsors:

• LMNT | LMNT is a zero sugar electrolyte drink mix with a research-backed ratio of electrolytes. To try it out go to drinkLMNT.com/balancedles to receive a free LMNT sample pack with any purchase.
• Smartwater | Smartwater alkaline will keep you hydrated throughout your active life– whether you’re running miles or running meetings. To learn more visit drinksmartwater.com
• Rhoback | Get 20% off all shorts, tanks, dresses, hoodies, and more by visiting rhoback.com and using the code BALANCED.
• Biosil | Get 30% off your first order of Biosil. Visit biosil.beauty and enter the code BALANCEDLES.
• Philadelphia Cream Cheese | Philadelphia makes everything creamier. Visit creamcheese.com for recipe inspiration and to purchase Philadelphia Cream Cheese so you can start adding it to your recipes at home!

Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

Produced by Dear Media.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.