Unfiltered Tales

This episode we interviewed Joy Alicia, author of the book SO Drunk A TOOTH’s Gotta GO (http://bit.ly/4nun2Oj)!!!! We explore her book, as we talk about the modern method of meeting potential romantic or sexual partners through websites, apps, or social media platforms. It typically begins with users creating profiles that showcase photos, bios, and personal interests, offering a curated digital first impression. Most apps use algorithms based on location, preferences, or behavior to suggest matches, streamlining the process of connection. Once matched, users enter a communication phase where messaging becomes a key tool for gauging compatibility. Online dating also carries symbolic language—emojis, profile photos, or even ghosting all convey unspoken messages about intent, interest, or rejection. This digital landscape has transformed how people form relationships, offering convenience and access while also introducing new challenges around authenticity, expectations, and emotional connection.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/unfiltered_tales/exclusive-content

Overcoming trauma and turning it into resilience means taking what once felt like a source of pain and transforming it into strength, wisdom, and inner power. Trauma can leave deep wounds, but it also carries the possibility of growth when a person learns to face their experiences with courage and self-compassion. By acknowledging the pain instead of burying it, healing begins. Each step forward—whether through therapy, supportive relationships, or personal reflection—helps rebuild a sense of safety and trust in oneself. Over time, the scars of trauma can serve as reminders not of weakness, but of survival. They become proof that even in the darkest times, you endured. This endurance becomes resilience: the ability to rise again, to adapt, and to use your story not as a chain holding you back, but as a foundation for strength, empathy, and purpose.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/unfiltered_tales/exclusive-content

In this episode, we speak to Rhonda Lawson (https://www.mtwimagesolutions.com/), about the fascinating world of artificial intelligence and creative writing. From exploring how AI assists authors in brainstorming plots and developing characters, to examining its role in editing, publishing, and even co-authoring entire books, we unpack the opportunities and challenges this technology brings to the literary world. Each episode features engaging conversations with writers, technologists, and thought leaders who share insights on how AI is reshaping storytelling. Whether you’re an author, a reader, or simply curious about the future of creativity, this show will inspire you to imagine what’s possible when human imagination meets artificial intelligence.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/unfiltered_tales/exclusive-content

On this episode of Unfiltered Tales, we speak with Lisa Johnson (https://beentheregotout.com) about Divorce. Divorce can feel like a tidal wave of emotions, pulling a person in different directions without warning. At first, there may be shock—an almost surreal disbelief that the relationship has truly ended—followed by waves of grief as the shared dreams, daily routines, and sense of identity built with a partner begin to unravel. Anger can surface, sometimes fiercely, directed toward a spouse, oneself, or the circumstances that led to the separation. Beneath it all, a steady undercurrent of fear and uncertainty often lingers, bringing questions about the future, finances, or the well-being of children. For some, relief emerges as the first breath of freedom after years of strain, while for others, the quiet of single life feels like an aching loneliness. Friendships may shift, familiar spaces may feel unfamiliar, and life itself can seem like a blank page—both intimidating and full of possibility. In the midst of it all, emotional healing becomes a gradual process, requiring patience, self-compassion, and the courage to rebuild on new termsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/unfiltered_tales/exclusive-content

On this episode, we are discussing boundaries with Zoey K. (https://mastermindcounseling.com/). Boundaries are essential guidelines that individuals set to protect their well-being, define acceptable behavior, and maintain healthy relationships. They come in various forms, including physical, emotional, mental, time, digital, sexual, and material. Physical boundaries involve personal space and physical touch, such as not wanting to be hugged without permission. Emotional boundaries protect one’s feelings and energy, allowing a person to say, “I’m not comfortable discussing that right now.” Mental boundaries support independent thinking and respecting differing opinions. Time boundaries help manage how one spends their time, such as limiting work calls after a particular hour. Digital boundaries protect one’s privacy online, while sexual boundaries involve consent and comfort with intimacy. Material boundaries relate to the use of personal items or finances, like choosing not to lend money. Setting boundaries requires clarity, calmness, and the courage to say no without guilt. They are not signs of selfishness but rather expressions of self-respect and emotional maturity.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/unfiltered_tales/exclusive-content

Nikki Allen (https://officialnikkiallen.com/) gives her story about love, abuse and redemption. Loved You, Hated You: Silence, Self-Doubt, and Spiritual Wreckage is a raw and intimate journey through the emotional aftermath of toxic love, spiritual confusion, and the paralyzing grip of silence. This deeply personal narrative explores the inner chaos of loving someone who also became a source of deep hurt—where devotion turned to doubt, and faith unraveled under the weight of emotional neglect and manipulation. Through moments of spiritual crisis, identity loss, and buried shame, the author unearths the truths that were silenced for too long. It is a story of unraveling and reckoning—a reckoning with the past, with God, and ultimately, with oneself. It speaks to anyone who has ever questioned their worth in the shadow of love gone wrong, and who is now ready to find their voice in the ruins.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/unfiltered_tales/exclusive-content

On today's show, we spoke to Skyeblu (https://www.intimacywithblu.com/) about human sexuality and intimacy among women Human sexuality amongst women is a rich and multifaceted subject shaped by biological, psychological, social, cultural, and relational factors. Women's sexual experiences, desires, and identities are not static; they often shift and evolve across different stages of life. Unlike traditional male-centric models of sexuality that emphasize linear patterns of arousal and climax, research shows that women’s sexuality tends to be more fluid, context-dependent, and influenced by emotional intimacy.Women may experience a wide spectrum of sexual orientations and identities—heterosexual, lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, queer, asexual, or others—with varying degrees of attraction across genders. Emotional connection, safety, body image, self-esteem, and cultural expectations often play key roles in sexual satisfaction and behavior. Moreover, issues like sexual agency, reproductive rights, sexual trauma, and pleasure advocacy remain important topics within the broader discussion of female sexuality.Feminist scholarship and queer theory have helped challenge historical taboos and stereotypes, emphasizing that women’s sexuality should be defined on their own terms, not through patriarchal or heteronormative lenses. Ultimately, female sexuality is deeply personal and diverse, highlighting the need for open, respectful, and inclusive dialogue.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/unfiltered_tales/exclusive-content

Adult Autism with April R. https://linktr.ee/adultingwithautismAutism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts socially, and experiences the world. In adults, autism may look different from what it does in children, and many people go undiagnosed until later in life. Adults with autism may struggle with reading social cues, such as tone of voice or facial expressions, and often find small talk difficult or uncomfortable. They may prefer structured conversations and can be very literal in their interpretation of language.Many autistic adults have strong preferences for routine and may engage in repetitive behaviors, such as rocking, hand-flapping, or tapping, which help them regulate their emotions. They often have intense interests in specific topics and may become highly knowledgeable in those areas. Sensory sensitivities are also common. For example, certain sounds, lights, textures, or smells may feel overwhelming or even painful.Emotionally, autistic adults may find it difficult to identify or express their feelings, and they may experience meltdowns or shutdowns when overwhelmed. They are also more likely to experience anxiety, depression, ADHD, or obsessive-compulsive tendencies. However, receiving a diagnosis as an adult can be validating. It can help explain lifelong challenges and lead to appropriate support.Support for autistic adults may include therapy, coaching, sensory tools, or workplace accommodations like flexible schedules and quiet environments. Joining support groups or online communities can also provide a sense of connection and understanding. Most importantly, understanding and embracing autism can lead to enhanced self-awareness, increased confidence, and improved quality of life.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/unfiltered_tales/exclusive-content

Our Guest Isabella decided, leaving a cult is rarely a single moment of escape—it’s a long, painful unraveling of beliefs, relationships, and identity. For many, the first step is an internal shift: a flicker of doubt, a contradiction they can’t ignore, or a realization that the promises made by the group don’t match the reality. But even when the decision to leave is clear, the path out is anything but simple.Cult leaders often use fear, guilt, isolation, and dependency to keep members in line. Those trying to leave may face threats, shunning, or complete emotional cutoff from family and friends still inside. Some are watched, stalked, or financially trapped. Others struggle with shame, confusion, or fear of the outside world, which they were taught to distrust.Physically leaving might involve sneaking away in the night, using code words with an outsider, or carefully planning an “exit strategy” over months. Emotionally, it means confronting the possibility that your whole worldview was manipulated—and learning how to trust yourself againSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/unfiltered_tales/exclusive-content

A One-Way Ticket takes our guest Danika into a deeply personal story about breaking free from expectations, embracing the unknown, and redefining success on my terms. It follows my journey as a solo traveler, diving into the emotional challenges of choosing an unconventional life path and navigating the pressures of friends and family. Along the way, I confronted fears, wrestled with doubt, and gained profound insights into resilience, privilege, and self-trust. As a solo female traveler, I experienced both the liberating highs and difficult realities of being on my own in unfamiliar places. But more than a travel story, this memoir is a call to anyone feeling trapped by fear or expectations—it’s about learning to build a life that feels authentic, even if it means taking the long way around. My journey reflects the mission of Unfiltered Tales: to show that while the path to self-discovery can feel isolating, none of us are ever truly alone.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/unfiltered_tales/exclusive-content

Phoenix Ash is an author and the life-examining host of the inspiring, sometimes funny, and always authentic podcast, Life As P. The traumatic experience of losing both of her parents to terminal illnesses during her preadolescent years shaped her deeply, leading her to find solace in the emerging culture of Hip-Hop. This vibrant and expressive art form became both a refuge and a source of empowerment, offering her a language to process grief, explore identity, and eventually share her voice with others through storytelling, writing, and podcasting. The feminine balance between power and vulnerability is a dynamic interplay that reveals profound strength in softness and courage in openness. Rather than opposing forces, power and vulnerability coexist to form a deeply authentic presence, where resilience is paired with emotional honesty, and intuition walks hand in hand with empathy. Feminine power often expresses itself not through dominance, but through quiet influence, nurturing leadership, and transformative presence, while vulnerability allows for proper connection, creativity, and emotional depth. Together, they create a wholeness where boundaries are held with grace, truth is spoken with compassion, and strength is exercised with tenderness. This balance does not diminish either quality; instead, it honors the complexity of the feminine and its ability to lead, heal, and inspire from a place of rooted authenticitySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/unfiltered_tales/exclusive-content

author Arielle J. Scott joins us to discuss her upcoming book, which follows Maya, a character navigating the complexities of having "daddy issues." The term “daddy issues” is often used as slang to describe the psychological effects someone may experience as a result of a troubled, absent, or emotionally unavailable relationship with their father—or father figure. These effects can manifest in many ways, including difficulty trusting others, seeking validation or affection in unhealthy ways, fear of abandonment, attraction to older or emotionally distant partners, and low self-worth or a constant need for reassurance. Psychologically, therapists might refer to this as attachment issues or unresolved parental trauma, often linked to attachment theory, which explores how early caregiver relationships shape our emotional bonds later in life. Unfortunately, “daddy issues” is a term that’s often misused or thrown around to shame people—especially women—for expressing vulnerability or having complex emotional needs. But these wounds are real, and they deserve empathy, not ridicule.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/unfiltered_tales/exclusive-content

Women’s self-mastery and self awareness is the process of taking control of the mind, emotions, and actions through self-awareness, discipline, emotional intelligence, and personal growth, enabling them to understand their thoughts and behaviors, make empowered choices, and live authentically.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/unfiltered_tales/exclusive-content

By the 1990s, phone sex had become a booming industry, with operators working from home or call centers, using scripts, improvisation, and character-building to engage callers in erotic conversations. As one of the most accessible forms of interactive adult entertainment before the rise of the internet, phone sex allowed operators to create fantasies and provide intimate experiences through voice alone, often playing different roles based on caller preferences. The goal was not just explicit talk but sustained engagement, with many operators developing personas and using seductive tones to keep callers interested. This profession was also frequently depicted in pop culture, including movies, TV shows, and music, often portraying operators as mysterious or comedic figures.Popular phone sex numbers1-900-HOT-FONE – One of the most well-advertised hotlines in the late 1980s and early 1990s.1-800-FANTASY – Marketed as a premier service for erotic conversations.1-900-LOVE-XXX – A common variation of adult hotlines featuring different themed options.1-900-HOT-GIRL – This is Targeted at men looking for sensual phone chats.1-800-PHONE-SEX – A straightforward branding approach that was easy to remember.1-900-MIX-A-LOT – Surprisingly, rapper Sir Mix-a-Lot (of "Baby Got Back" fame) was involved in launching his own adult hotline.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/unfiltered_tales/exclusive-content

From broken to brave—surviving was just the beginning. Thriving is my new chapter as we sit down with E from the Murder, Blood and Psychopaths' Podcast as she tells her story.Abusive relationships can take many forms—emotional, physical, verbal, financial, or psychological—and they’re built on power and control. Recognizing the signs is crucial. These might include manipulation, constant criticism, isolation from friends or family, threats, or physical harm. Abuse is never the victim's fault, and no one deserves to be treated that way.If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse:Reach out for help: Trusted friends, family, or professionals can be essential sources of support.Contact local resources or hotlines: In the U.S., the National Domestic Violence Hotline is available at 1-800-799-7233 or thehotline.org.Prioritize safety: A safety plan can help you leave safely or protect yourself while you figure out your next steps.Healing is possible.Leaving an abusive relationship is hard, but it’s also an act of courage. Recovery involves rebuilding trust in yourself, seeking support, and rediscovering what makes you feel strong and whole. You deserve kindness, respect, and love—starting with yourselfSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/unfiltered_tales/exclusive-content

The adult entertainment business is a multi-billion-dollar industry that produces and distributes sexually explicit content and services, including films, live performances, online platforms, and adult products, regulated by varying legal and ethical standards. We will give you behind-the-scenes perspectiveSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/unfiltered_tales/exclusive-content

Part 2 "Honoring the past, celebrating the present, and inspiring the future. ✊🏾✨ #BlackHistory Black history is a powerful narrative of resilience, innovation, and the ongoing struggle for justice and equality. It honors the contributions, achievements, and rich cultural heritage of Black communities worldwide, while acknowledging the challenges they’ve faced— from slavery and segregation to the fight for civil rights and beyond. Celebrating Black history is not just about reflecting on the past but also uplifting voices, stories, and legacies that continue to shape a more inclusive futurSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/unfiltered_tales/exclusive-content

"Honoring the past, celebrating the present, and inspiring the future. ✊🏾✨ #BlackHistory Black history is a powerful narrative of resilience, innovation, and the ongoing struggle for justice and equality. It honors the contributions, achievements, and rich cultural heritage of Black communities worldwide, while acknowledging the challenges they’ve faced— from slavery and segregation to the fight for civil rights and beyond. Celebrating Black history is not just about reflecting on the past but also uplifting voices, stories, and legacies that continue to shape a more inclusive future. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/unfiltered_tales/exclusive-content

Peering beyond the surface... where the truth gets tangled in the shadows. Conspiracy theorist Sunny takes us down the rabbit hole. "Down the rabbit hole" is a metaphorical phrase that refers to embarking on a journey of discovery or exploration that becomes increasingly complex or difficult to stop, often leading to unexpected or deeper layers of informationSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/unfiltered_tales/exclusive-content

Working in the federal government during Donald Trump's presidency (2017–2021) presented a unique set of challenges and opportunities, as his administration had a very distinct approach to governance, policy, and public service. The Trump years were marked by significant political polarization, frequent turnover in leadership positions, and major shifts in federal policiesSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/unfiltered_tales/exclusive-content