#268: A lot can happen in a year!

In this episode, I’m reflecting on my first year of entrepreneurship, sharing the journey of transitioning from a full-time corporate job to going all-in on content creation. From the freedom of setting my own schedule to the pressure of being the product, I open up about both the highs and struggles of entrepreneurship I’ve experienced in 2024.

Tune in to hear how I’ve navigated challenges, found growth, and discovered new ideas for even better content in 2025!

Catch up on my journey of entrepreneurship:

• Episode 220: How I Became A Full-Time Podcaster
• Episode 223: Mental Health Check-In: Challenges of Entrepreneurship (Part 1)

Resources:

• Check out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!
• Episode 263: Success, and Upgrading Your Life with Jodie Taylor (Live Show)

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:

• Vionic shoes | sponsor pending from DM
• 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.
• 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.
• Shopify | Get your online business up and running with Shopify. Sign up for $1 per month trial period at shopify.com/balancedblackgirl.

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.

#267: Are you ready to build the brand of your dreams but not sure where to begin?

In this episode, I chat with Denise Vasi, model and founder of MAED Beauty, about the highs and challenges of launching a business, embracing pivots, and chasing big dreams.

From identifying overlooked gaps in the beauty industry to balancing entrepreneurship with self-care, Denise offers inspiring advice on going after what you want—fearlessly and unapologetically.

We Also Talk About…

• Denise’s career journey from modeling and acting to beauty brand founder
• How to find market gaps and build a business
• How to practice self-care as a business owner
• Why clean beauty products matter
• Ways to connect people with your brand
• How to build the habit of finishing what you start
• Returning to yourself after seasons of preparation and hustle

Resources:

• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Check out maedbeauty.com for clean beauty products
• Follow Denise on Instagram
• Follow Maed Beauty on Instagram

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:

• 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.
• Equip Health | Equip is a virtual evidence-based eating disorder treatment program that helps you heal your relationship with food and your body from the comfort of your own home. To learn more about Equip treatment visit equip.health/balancecblackgirl.com
• Ritual | Ritual Synbiotic+ has the prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics you need for better gut health. Get 25% OFF your first month at ritual.com/BALANCED
• Masterclass | MasterClass is the only streaming platform where you can learn and grow with over 200+ of the world's best. Go to masterclass.com/BALANCED for the current offer.

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.

#266: Is it just me, or do you also feel unmotivated in the winter?

In this solo episode, I’m sharing how to create habits that make it easier to navigate the seasonal shift and embrace the slower pace of winter.

From adjusting your routines for more rest and nourishment to finding joy in new hobbies and staying connected, this episode will help you stay motivated, care for your mental and physical health, and finish the year feeling strong.

I also talk about…

• Meal prepping habits and recipes to fuel you during the colder days ahead.
• How to maintain meaningful relationships with friends and family during the holidays.
• Simple ways to stay consistent with your fitness routine and boost your mood.
• Wellness products to elevate your self-care game.
• How journaling, meditation, and boundary-setting can help protect your peace.

Resources:

• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Shop this episode’s product recommendations on ShopMy

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 to keep you hydrated. Go to drinkLMNT.com/balancedles to receive a free LMNT sample pack with any purchase.
• Equip | Equip is a virtual, evidence-based eating disorder treatment program that helps you heal your relationship with food and your body from the comfort of your own home. To learn more about Equip treatment visit equip.health/balancecblackgirl.com
• Vionic | 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 try it out visit drinksmartwater.com.

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.

#265: Ready to break free from limitations and design life on your terms?

In this episode, I sit down with Tricia Lee—real estate broker, former beautypreneur and star of Netflix’s Owning Manhattan. We have an honest conversation about entrepreneurship, turning setbacks into motivation, and carving your own path in your career and beyond.

Whether you're considering a career change or craving more independence, Tricia’s advice will inspire you to take charge and make it happen.

We Also Talk About…

• Tricia’s journey from corporate life to creating carving her own path in real estate
• Entrepreneurship and building a flexible schedule
• Turning limitations into opportunities
• How to stay motivated when support is lacking
• Mental toughness and staying true to your goals

Resources:

• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Follow Tricia on Instagram @lovetricialee
• For exclusive listings, visit tricialee.com.

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.
• Biosil | Get 30% off your first order of Biosil. Visit biosil.beauty and enter the code BALANCEDLES.
• Nutrafol | Get stronger, healthier hair with Nutrafol. 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.
• 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.
• Deinde | Fight inflammaging with Deinde skincare. Go to deinde.com and use code BALANCEDLES at check out for 15% off your first purchase.
• Culture Pop | Try a healthier soda alternative. Visit drinkculturepop.com and use code BALANCEDLES for 20% off your first purchase.

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.

#264: Do you ever skip a workout to save your hair?

In this solo episode, I’m sharing the Fit Hair Formula– your go-to guide for balancing fitness and hair care without compromise.

From sweat-friendly styles to syncing workouts with wash days, we’ll create a routine that fits your workout goals and keeps your edges intact!

I also talk about…

• Understanding your sweat type
• How to plan your workout schedule around your hair maintenance
• Aligning your hairstyles with your activities
• My favorite hair product recommendations
• Why movement should be your top priority

Resources:

• Shop this episode’s product recommendations on ShopMy
• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Listen to episode 262: Optimal Wellness Habits for Your 20s and 30s
• Organize your workout and self-care schedule with this free weekly planner

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:

• 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.
• LMNT | LMNT is a zero sugar electrolyte drink mix to keep you hydrated. Go to drinkLMNT.com/balancedles to receive a free LMNT sample pack with any purchase.
• Deinde | Fight inflammaging with Deinde skincare. Go to deinde.com and use code BALANCEDLES at check out for 15% off your first purchase.
• Ritual | Ritual Synbiotic+ has the prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics you need for better gut health. Get 25% OFF your first month at ritual.com/BALANCED
• Culture Pop | Try a healthier soda alternative. Visit drinkculturepop.com and use code BALANCEDLES for 20% off your first purchase.
• MasterClass | MasterClass is the only streaming platform where you can learn and grow with over 200+ of the world's best. Go to masterclass.com/BALANCED for the current offer.

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.

#263: Cheers to six years of Balanced Black Girl!

Join us for a celebration episode LIVE from City Winery in NYC! Les is back with glow-up guru Jodie Taylor for a fun, inspiring chat on investing in yourself, ditching societal standards, and living your most authentic life in every season.

This episode is packed with wisdom, laughs, and insights on making powerful investments—inside and out.

Catch up on these self-investment episodes:

• Episode 205: The Ultimate Glow Up: How to Level Up in Your Career and Life with Jodie Taylor
• Episode 236: How to Become Your Highest Self: Essential Glow-Up Tips with Jaz Turner
• Episode 243: How to Decenter Men and Romantic Relationships
• Episode 253: How to Win at Life: The Mindset Shift You Need to Level Up
• Episode 261: How to Invest in Yourself

Books for your glow up era:

• Psycho-Cybernetics by Maxell Maltz
• For the Culture: The Power Behind What We Buy, What We Do, and Who We Want to Be by Marcus Collins
• Worthy: Boost Your Self-Worth to Grow Your Net Worth by Nancy Levin
• The Mountain Is You: Transforming Self-Sabotage Into Self-Mastery by Brianna Wiest

Resources:

• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Planner launch: get on the waitlist to be first to know when it drops
• Follow Jodie on Instagram @jkt823
• Follow Jodie on TikTok @jodiektay

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:

• Biosil | Help your skin produce its own collagen with Biosil. Visit biosil.beauty and enter the code BALANCEDLES for 30% off.
• Deinde | Deinde’s offering 20% off this Black Friday, but Balanced Black Girl listeners can get 25% off at deinde.com using code BALANCEDLES.
• Vionic | 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.
• Equip | Equip is a virtual, evidence-based eating disorder treatment program that helps you heal your relationship with food and your body from the comfort of your own home. To learn more about Equip treatment visit equip.health/balancecblackgirl.com
• Culture Pop | Visit drinkculturepop.com and use code BALANCEDLES for 20% off your first purchase.

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.

#262: Feeling a little out of sync lately? Let’s hit reset together!

In this solo episode, I’m sharing how evolving wellness habits can keep us balanced and feeling our best at every age. What worked in our 20s might need a refresh in our 30s, so we’ll explore tips for embracing wellness routines.

Whether you’re looking to re-energize or just want fresh self-care ideas, these powerful yet easy practices can help you feel grounded and refreshed throughout your 20s, 30s, and beyond.

Resources:

• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Check out my ShopMy for links to all products and recommendations in this episode
• Planner launch: get on the waitlist to be first to know when it drops

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.
• 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.
• Deinde | Deinde is the first bio based skincare line to target what scientists now understand to be the root cause of visible aging in skin. Go to, or use code deinde.com and use code BALANCEDLES at check out for 15% off your first purchase.
• NOCD | NOCD offers accessible OCD treatment. Go to nocd.com and schedule a free 15-minute call with their team.
• 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.
• 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.

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.

#261: Have you ever wondered what could happen if you poured the same energy into yourself that you do into everything else? 

In this solo episode, I reflect on my past year of self-investment and share how you can start doing the same. 

Whether it’s hitting the gym, starting therapy, or upgrading your wardrobe, we’ll explore how small, intentional actions can help you become a stronger, more confident version of yourself.

Catch up on these self-investment episodes:

• Episode 186: Easy Ways to Boost Your Confidence So You Can Level Up
• Episode 236: How to Become Your Highest Self: Essential Glow Up Tips with Jaz Turner
• Episode 247: How to Stop Caring About What Other People Think
• Episode 253: How to Win At Life: The Mindset Shift You Need to Level Up in Life
• Episode 256: How to Become A Better Public Speaker
• Episode 258: What I Learned During My 30-Day Style Challenge

Resources:

• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Don’t have time to meal prep? Check out Factor 75

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.
• Biosil | | Get 30% off your first order of Biosil. Visit biosil.beauty and enter the code BALANCEDLES
• 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.
• Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield | Explore your health insurance options by visiting www.myhealthbenefitfinder.com and utilize expert advice from Anthem by calling at (888) 811-2101.
• Quince | Get quiet luxury without luxury prices at Quince. Go to quince.com/balancedles for free shipping and 365-day returns on your next order.
• Boka | Clean oral health products that work. For a limited time, Boka is offering listeners 15% off its best-selling toothpastes on Amazon and boka.com with code BALANCED15.

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

#260: As summer fades and back-to-school energy fills the air, now is the perfect time to reassess what productivity looks like for you.

In this solo episode, I’m sharing how to create realistic systems that support your overall wellbeing—because productivity isn’t just about getting things done; it’s about creating time, energy, and space for what you love.

I’ll guide you in reflecting on your daily routines, moving away from endless to-do lists, and identifying what truly energizes you versus what drains your time.

I also talk about…

• What it means to have type A- personality
• Why perfectionism doesn’t convert to productivity
• How to create effective systems
• Digital organization tools to help you thrive
• Systems for running a small business and managing a team

Check out these productivity tools:

• Notion
• Google Calendar
• Asana
• ChatGPT
• Sunsama

Resources:

• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
• Use my exact Notion templates to manage your podcast
• Planner launch: get on the waitlist to be first to know when it drops

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:

• NPR | Code Switch doesn’t just talk to you about race and identity in the abstract. It tackles real, everyday questions, like how to create boundaries with immigrant parents, or tips on how to speak to family members whose racial views might feel stuck in the Stone Age. Listen to Code Switch from NPR– wherever you get your podcasts!
• 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.
• 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.
• Deinde | Deinde is the first bio based skincare line to target what scientists now understand to be the root cause of visible aging in skin. Go to, or use code deinde.com and use code BALANCEDLES at check out for 15% off your first purchase.
• Thrive Market | Save time and money by shopping with Thrive Market. Visit thrivemarket.com/balancedles for 30% off plus a free $60 gift.

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.

#259: Feeling the pressure to check off all your dreams in your 20s and 30s? You’re definitely not alone!

In this solo episode, I’m opening up about how I’ve been finding my way and staying true to my own path. From therapy, to trying out new hobbies, to diving into new business opportunities, I’ll share how I’m taking action towards my goals and learning to trust my unique timeline in life.

I also talk about…

• How to create a bucket list for your future
• The power of therapy and self-reflection
• How to redefine milestones that are important to you
• Why personal definitions of success matter
• Embracing your life and the path you choose

Catch up on these manifestation episodes:

• Episode 124: How to Manifest: Healing Through the Journey of Manifestation with Shirin Eskandani
• Episode 105: Manifesting Love + Owning Your Magic with Alea Lovely
• Episode 128: How to Be Patient While Your Manifestations Come Through + Understanding Your Manifestation Style
• Episode 129: How to Use Astrology to Manifest + Navigating Your Saturn Return with Shinobi Robeson of Black Girl Horoscope
• Episode 245: The Secret to Getting Everything You Want: Archetype Embodiment

Resources:

• Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les

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.
• 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.
• Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield | 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.
• Deinde | Deinde is the first bio based skincare line to target what scientists now understand to be the root cause of visible aging in skin. Go to, or use code deinde.com and use code BALANCEDLES at check out for 15% off your first purchase.
• Vionic | 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.
• NOCD | NOCD offers accessible OCD treatment. Go to nocd.com and schedule a free 15-minute call with their team.

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.

#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.