The Mama's Den

This week in The Mama’s Den, we’re kicking it with Apryl Jones — single mama of two, entrepreneur, creative, and yes… someone many people think they know from reality TV, but trust us, there’s so much more to her story. Apryl gets real about doing the work to release old relationship hurt and issues with her father so she can show up lighter, freer, and fully present for herself and her kids. We talk motherhood hustle, protecting your peace, dating as a single mom, what still scares her, and what she’s truly looking for in this next chapter. And honestly? Her energy surprised us in the best way — fun, carefree, thoughtful, and grounded in family first. It turned into one of those conversations where you laugh, reflect, and leave feeling a little softer about your own journey. Healing, honesty, and good mama energy all around. Keep up with Apryl on IG: @aprylsjones The Mamas are building our community and ways to keep in touch with you. Share your email address here: https://tinyurl.com/MamasDen Make sure you connect with our Mamas on IG: @themamasdenpodcast Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls Codie - @codieco  Melanie - @melaniefiona Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week in The Mama’s Den, actress, storyteller, and new mama Kellee Stewart joins us for a deeply honest conversation about faith, timing, motherhood, and trusting your own path.After a seven-year relationship ended in her 30s, Kellee made the powerful decision to freeze her eggs — a choice that would shape her future in ways she never expected. Thirteen years later, through what she describes as a divine nudge delivered through her mother, she embraced motherhood on her own terms - at 50 years old - and is now navigating life as a newborn mom.We talk about heartbreak, hope, egg freezing as an option every woman deserves to understand, and the beauty of building a family in a way that feels right for you.It’s vulnerable, inspiring, faith-filled, and full of the real talk you expect from The Mama’s Den.Keep up with Kellee Stewart on IG: @kstew222The Mamas are building our community and ways to keep in touch with you. Share your email address here: https://tinyurl.com/MamasDenMake sure you connect with our Mamas on IG: @themamasdenpodcastAshley - @watermeloneggrollsCodie - @codieco Melanie - @melaniefiona Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hot flashes, hormones, mood swings… oh my. 😅This week in the Mama’s Den, OB-GYN, menopause expert, and Generation M author Dr. Jessica Shepherd joins us for a honest, funny, and super informative convo about perimenopause, menopause, and everything in between.If you’ve ever wondered what’s happening to your body (or what’s coming next), this episode is packed with clarity, reassurance, and practical gems. Honestly? Required listening for every woman — and the people who love us.Keep up with Dr. Shepherd on IG: @jessicashepherdmdLearn more about her and even buy her book, Generation M, here: https://www.jessicashepherdmd.comThe Mamas are building our community and ways to keep in touch with you. Share your email address here: https://tinyurl.com/MamasDenMake sure you connect with our Mamas on IG: @themamasdenpodcastAshley - @watermeloneggrollsCodie - @codieco Melanie - @melaniefiona Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on The Mama’s Den, we’re coming together in our LA studio in the best way — with a conversation inspired by the upcoming animated film GOAT, a story all about dreaming big, overcoming expectations, and discovering the greatness already inside you.Using themes from the movie, the Mamas ask each other powerful questions about legacy, pressure, confidence, setbacks, and what it really means to keep going — not just for our kids, but for ourselves.And because we hadn’t been in the same room together in months, this episode turns into something even more special: a chance to truly catch up, laugh, get honest, and go deep about the seasons we’ve been living through as women, moms, and friends.It’s heartfelt, it’s fun, and it’s a reminder that sometimes the best conversations happen when you give yourself space to reflect — and the people who know you best are right there beside you.The Mamas are building our community and ways to keep in touch with you. Share your email address here: https://tinyurl.com/MamasDenMake sure you connect with our Mamas on IG: @themamasdenpodcastAshley - @watermeloneggrollsCodie - @codieco Melanie - @melaniefiona Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on The Mama’s Den, we’re joined by the radiant Simone I. Smith — jewelry designer, mother of four, grandmother of four, devoted wife to LL Cool J, and a true embodiment of sisterhood.Simone is the definition of a girl’s girl: a woman whose brand and spirit are rooted in community, friendship, and showing up for other women. From her signature hoop designs under Simone I. Smith Jewelry to the wisdom she carries as a cancer survivor, Simone’s story is one of resilience, grace, and deep faith.In this conversation, we talk about God’s timing, trusting the seasons of motherhood, and learning to lean into the kind of mom you truly are — not the one you think you’re supposed to be. Simone shares what it means to build a life grounded in love, purpose, and sisterhood, and why every chapter unfolds exactly when it’s meant to.This episode is a reminder that motherhood isn’t one-size-fits-all… and that sometimes, the greatest strength comes from embracing your own journey — right on time.Make sure you connect with our Mamas on IG: @themamasdenpodcastAshley - @watermeloneggrollsCodie - @codieco Melanie - @melaniefiona Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of The Mama’s Den, we’re joined by Katryce Pedro aka The Funny Momma, who proves that you can tell the truth about hard seasons and laugh your way through them. With humor, honesty, and zero fluff, Katryce opens up about being a mom of two by two different fathers, what she learned from two failed marriages, and why she’s still choosing love as she steps into 2026 engaged and embracing a well-deserved soft life.She also shares the very real—but often heavy—experience of parenting a child on the autism spectrum, explaining how taking a hands-on, informed approach helped her youngest son make meaningful progress. This conversation is filled with laughs, lessons, and reminders that community matters in motherhood. It’s proof that joy and resilience can exist right alongside the hard stuff.Make sure you connect with our Mamas on IG: @themamasdenpodcastAshley - @watermeloneggrollsCodie - @codieco Melanie - @melaniefiona Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In the first episode of the year, The Mama’s Den reflects on the post-holiday pause and the intention we’re bringing into a new season. We’re also joined by Corey J. Bradford, star of Hercules aboard the Disney Destiny Cruise, whose story deeply moved us.Corey shares what it means to follow his passion, the powerful support of his mother, and embracing being both soft and strong as a Black man. His journey sparks an honest conversation about how we support our children’s dreams — even when they aren’t experts yet — and how growth often comes from trying anyway.Inspired, the hosts each commit to a bold personal dream for 2026. This episode is about resetting, dreaming out loud, and stepping into the new year with intention.We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com.Make sure you connect with our Mamas on IG: @themamasdenpodcastAshley - @watermeloneggrollsCodie - @codieco Melanie - @melaniefiona Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

2025 pushed us to our limits. In this episode, the hosts of The Mama’s Den share what helped us survive a difficult year — and how we’re shifting into a future built on intention, clarity, and joy. We talk about recognizing our talents, letting go of what no longer serves us, and choosing joy without guilt. If you’re ready to move from survival mode into purpose, this conversation is for you.Follow The Mama's Den on Instagram at @TheMamasDenpodcastWrite us at podcasts@blacklove.comWe can't wait to hear from you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

When The Mama’s Den podcast first began, two of our 9 children hadn’t even been born yet. Fast-forward to today, and those two babies are now 4 years old, three of them are 7, three are 9, and one is 16 — and the emotional weight of that growth is hitting us in real time.This week, we open up about what it feels like to watch our children grow up right before our eyes. From the excitement (and fear) of driver’s licenses to overnight trips and realizing that some of our kids are no longer “little,” we talk honestly about the joy, nerves, pride, and anxiety that come with each new milestone.We reflect on how motherhood evolves as our kids become more independent — and how their growth forces us to confront our own: learning to let go, redefining our roles, and holding space for nostalgia while celebrating who our children are becoming. This conversation is for every parent navigating the bittersweet reality of raising kids who don’t stay kids forever.Whether your child is a toddler, a tween, or on the brink of adulthood, this episode will make you feel seen — and remind you that you’re not alone in this season.Follow The Mama's Den on Instagram at www.instagram.com/themamasdenpodcast Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this week’s episode of The Mama’s Den, Codie is fresh off the inaugural Disney Destiny Cruise — and she’s giving the inside scoop on cruising with kids, creating core memories, and convincing the Mamas to join next time. While onboard, Codie sat down with fellow twin mom Lauren Berty, host of That Twin Mama podcast and beloved social media creator known for her hilarious, honest takes on raising three kids - including 5-year-old twins girls! Together, they talk about the surprise of twins and when things *actually* get easier with multiples.The mamas also recap their Thanksgiving highs and lows, reflect on how parenting is shifting in this season and offer real-life insight for moms balancing multiple little ones at once.If you’re a twin mom, a Disney lover, or just craving sisterhood and some much-needed validation, this episode is full of laughs, transparency, and community.Follow The Mama's Den on Instagram at www.instagram.com/themamasdenpodcast Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Buckle up, mama. This week we’re joined by our girl, podcaster, actress, mom of 4 whole boys, and wife Khadeen Ellis, and the conversation goes there. From the soaring highs to the gut-check lows of 2025, we peel back every layer — marriage, motherhood, perimenopause, grief, growth, and the freedom of finally letting go. It’s raw. It’s real. It’s funny, it’s honest, it’s healing — and it’s exactly the sisterhood we need right now.We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com.Make sure you connect with our Mamas: @themamasdenpodcastAshley - @watermeloneggrollsCodie - @codiecoMelanie - @melaniefiona Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week in the Den, the Mamas finally bring on Ashley's LITERAL day one—Nalo, her best friend since birth, Nalo Wise. After years of stories, references, and inside jokes, the audience gets to meet the woman herself. Together, Melanie, Codie, Ashley and Nalo take us deep into what it really takes to make a friendship last for decades: the honesty, the maturity, the forgiveness, and the intentionality that adult friendships demand—especially for women and moms.With maintaining new and old friendships being such a hot topic among moms and on social media, this conversation couldn’t come at a better time. As we head into Thanksgiving, a season centered on love, gratitude, and the people who feel like home, this episode is a beautiful reminder that chosen family matters just as much as the ones we’re born into. Prepare to laugh, reflect, and maybe text a friend after this one.We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com.Make sure you connect with our Mamas: @themamasdenpodcastAshley - @watermeloneggrollsCodie - @codiecoMelanie - @melaniefiona Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Mamas are fresh off their live show and whew — it was a ride! This week they’re sharing what it really took to make it happen: long days, late nights, and the sisterhood that kept them going. From planning and promotion to showtime nerves, they talk about pouring your heart into something you love, leaning on your people, and how mamas always finds a way to get it done.We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com.Make sure you connect with our Mamas:@themamasdenpodcastAshley - @watermeloneggrollsCodie - @codiecoMelanie - @melaniefiona Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael Ealy is the Daddy in the Den! Earlier this year, actor, husband, and father of two, Michael Ealy joined the Mamas to talk about raising a boy and a girl. Michael shares lessons learned, from recognizing double standards - why are girls called sassy but boys are assertive - to reminding us that dads juggle some of the same challenges moms do, and they dig into the importance of communication between parents, and the need to appreciate each parent’s role. This episode is for everyone working to build safe spaces for kids and for parenting partners.======We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com.Make sure you connect with our Mamas:Ashley - @watermeloneggrollsCodie - @codiecoMelanie - @melaniefiona Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special crossover episode, The Mama’s Den links up with The Gin & Juice Podcast—hosted by powerhouse sisters and moms, Mel Goolsby and Melissa Fredericks. Together, we dive into how these two turned life’s curveballs into purpose and profit. After being laid off on maternity leave 2022, Mel built a thriving social media platform called "I'm Not A Lawyer, But" while Melissa stood beside her—both in sisterhood and entrepreneurship—as they launched their hit podcast, Gin & Juice. At a time when so many are navigating job loss and reinvention, this conversation is a reminder that sometimes the end of one chapter is the spark for a new beginning. Tune in for real talk, laughter, and the kind of inspiration every mama (and dreamer) needs in 2025.This episode marks PART 2 of The Mama's Den x Gin & Juice mashup. Catch Part 1 on The Gin & Juice podcast feed.REMEMBER: If you're in Atlanta on November 3rd, come see The Mamas live! https://citywinery.com/atlanta/events/the-mamas-den-podcast-live-6vpkv0________________________ Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com.Make sure you connect with our Mamas on Instagram:The Mama's Den - @themamasdenpodcastAshley - @watermeloneggrollsCodie - @codiecoMelanie - @melaniefiona Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Husband and father of two, Sean Patrick Thomas, is in The Mama's Den talking about the emotional experience parenting 15 and 17-year olds who are making some very grown up decisions about their lives, feeling proud of how he and his wife, Aonika, have raised them, and playing a grieving father in season two of the Amazon Prime series Gen V. Buckle up because this episode has laughs, tears, incredible parenting lessons, and even some roti and curry! (You'll get that later.)REMEMBER: If you're in Atlanta on November 3rd, come see The Mamas live! https://citywinery.com/atlanta/events/the-mamas-den-podcast-live-6vpkv0________________________ Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com.Make sure you connect with our Mamas on Instagram:The Mama's Den - @themamasdenpodcastAshley - @watermeloneggrollsCodie - @codiecoMelanie - @melaniefiona Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week, the mamas are talking about self scrutiny and the public scrutiny of women - Yes, we're talking about Ayesha Curry. But we are also talking about Codie's eldest's recent birthday, Ashley's anniversary, and the realities of all the mamas still being in transition. As always - this is a safe space. We all deserve the space and grace to grow, evolve, and speak our truth. So bring your mom guilt and insecurities and let's worth through them together! REMEMBER: If you're in Atlanta on November 3rd, come see The Mamas live! https://citywinery.com/atlanta/events/the-mamas-den-podcast-live-6vpkv0________________________ Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com.Make sure you connect with our Mamas on Instagram:The Mama's Den - @themamasdenpodcastAshley - @watermeloneggrollsCodie - @codiecoMelanie - @melaniefiona Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Forgive us for being all "woo woo" but we are in our feelings this week as we catch up 1 month after Melanie's move. We read your messages and comments on every platform and couldn't leave our Mama's Den fam hanging on the morning commute. This week, we discuss our recent transitions and the impact of change on family dynamics, the importance of supportive relationships, the even power of manifestation. Tap in with us as we embrace some beautiful changes TOGETHER!And if you're in Atlanta on November 3rd, come see us live! https://citywinery.com/atlanta/events/the-mamas-den-podcast-live-6vpkv0________________________ Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com.Make sure you connect with our Mamas on Instagram:The Mama's Den - @themamasdenpodcastAshley - @watermeloneggrollsCodie - @codiecoMelanie - @melaniefiona Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is a little different than most.....OK, a lot different. We snuck into our studio over the weekend just two days before Melanie was set to move her whole family across the country because we wanted to deliver a message to YOU! Things are changing in the Den, but like motherhood, we adapt. Make sure you're following the podcast on all platforms for updates on new episodes, live shows, and community events!And if you're in Atlanta on November 3rd, come to our live show! https://citywinery.com/atlanta/events/the-mamas-den-podcast-live-6vpkv0________________________ Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com.Make sure you connect with our Mamas on Instagram:The Mama's Den - @themamasdenpodcastAshley - @watermeloneggrollsCodie - @codiecoMelanie - @melaniefiona Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This summer, we said hello to the Mama's Den village as a party of 3 and we are running this episode back for everyone new to the Den AND because in exactly 7 weeks, Melanie, Ashley, and Codie will be LIVE in Atlanta at City Winery. Get to know where we've been, who we are, and how we are rolling with the changes 2025 has brought us.Now more than ever, these mamas are juggling motherhood, entrepreneurship, and personal growth - still doing their best to choose joy and lean on community. If you’re out here doing the best with what you’ve got, this is your reminder: joy is still available to you.Want to see The Mama's Den live in Atlanta on November 3rd? Get your tickets here: https://citywinery.com/atlanta/events/the-mamas-den-podcast-live-6vpkv0 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.