Lipstick, Libations + Liberation | The Podcast

In this episode, pMichelle & Stephanie delve into the themes of power, morality, and societal oppression, drawing parallels between historical contexts and contemporary events. They explore the impact of power dynamics on individuals and communities, as well as the struggle for liberation and justice. The discussion also touches on personal experiences, self-care, and the influence of media and entertainment on perception and awareness. The ladies also analyze the impact of social conditioning on the Black community, the portrayal of Black stories in media, and the importance of sharing and preserving personal narratives. pMichelle & Stephanie share imagination, creativity, and the power of storytelling as a means of empowerment and resistance.TakeawaysPower has no moralityThe struggle for liberation and justice is ongoing Social conditioning and its impact on the Black communityThe power of storytelling and imagination as a form of resistanceWorks Cited: Baldwin, James. No Name in the Street. 1972.Marin, Natasha, editor. Black Imagination: Black Voices on Black Futures. McSweeney's Publishing, 2020.

This episode explores the concept of rest as resistance and the impact of capitalism on rest. It emphasizes the necessity of rest as a cultural shift rooted in an embodiment lens, requiring active participation and a commitment to building community. The discussion also delves into the challenges of integrating rest into daily life and the importance of resisting the dominant culture's influence on rest. The conversation covers a wide range of topics including the role of machines, the need for balance and rest, earning rest and contributions, obsession with death and end of days, challenges of rest and sleep, reading and rest, challenges in organizing and activism, exercise and rest, and rest as resistance and revolution. pMichelle & Stephanie emphasize the importance of rest as a human right and the idea that revolution is not a one-time event.TakeawaysRest as ResistanceThe Impact of Capitalism on Rest Rest is a human rightRevolution is not a one-time eventsound bites"Rest is resistance.""The world has been ending for us since 1999.""Sleep and routine are essential for true rest."Works cited: Audre Lorde's quote on revolutionBlack Girls Must Die Exhausted by Jayne Allen - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52974755-black-girls-must-die-exhaustedNina Simone's biography - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/38574794-nina-simoneHersey, Tricia. Rest Is Resistance: A Manifesto. Little, Brown Spark, 2022.

In this conversation, P Michelle and Stephanie explore the spiritual dimensions of relationships, emphasizing the importance of community and self-love. They discuss various relationship dynamics, including polyamory and toxic monogamy, while highlighting the significance of building intimacy with oneself. The dialogue reflects on the evolving nature of modern relationships and the necessity of community support in nurturing connections.TakeawaysIntimacy is a spiritual connection between individuals.Relationships are often driven by a higher spiritual purpose.Community plays a crucial role in supporting intimate relationships.Toxic monogamy can lead to possessiveness and control.Building intimacy with oneself is foundational for healthy relationships.Platonic relationships can be meaningful and fulfilling.Self-awareness enhances the ability to connect with others.The dynamics of modern relationships are complex and varied.Community is essential for personal growth and support.Everyone's journey in relationships is unique and evolving.Keywords#spirituality #relationships #intimacy #community  #polyamory #selflove #modernrelationships #toxicmonogamy #personalgrowth #connectionWorks Cited: Somé, Sobonfu. The Spirit of Intimacy: Ancient African Teachings in the Ways of Relationships. William Morrow, 2000.

This conversation explores the intersection of mental health, culture, and activism within the Black community, drawing inspiration from Nina Simone's legacy. Disclaimer, we ARE NOT mental health professionals or doctors. We speak from our own lived experiences and what has worked for us. In this episode, pMichelle + Stephanie discuss the importance of addressing mental health issues, the impact of societal pressures, and the need for self-care strategies. They emphasize the significance of art and activism in navigating personal and collective trauma, while also highlighting the importance of professional help and creating joy in everyday life. The conversation concludes with reflections on preparing the next generation to understand and combat systemic oppression.TakeawaysNina Simone's song 'Mississippi Goddam' reflects ongoing struggles.Mental health issues are prevalent in the Black community.Navigating rage is essential for resilience.The burden of being Black in America is heavy.Art and activism are intertwined in the fight for justice.Self-care is crucial for mental well-being.Professional help is necessary for mental health management.Finding joy in everyday moments is vital.Preparing the next generation is a responsibility.Self-preservation is an act of political warfare.Sound Bites"It's hard to navigate.""You gotta actively fight against that.""Caring for myself is not self-indulgence."Keywords#NinaSimone #mentalhealth #Blackcommunity #resilience #selfcare #activism #art #joy #generationaltrauma #therapyWorks CitedSimone, Nina. "Mississippi Goddam." Nina Simone in Concert, Philips Records, 1964.Simone, Nina, with Stephen Cleary. I Put a Spell on You. Pantheon Books, 1991. Menakem, Resmaa. My Grandmother's Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Our Hearts and Bodies. Central Recovery Press, 2017. Hersey, Tricia. We Will Rest!: The Art of Escape. Little, Brown Spark, 2024.Lorde, Audre. A Burst of Light: Essays. Firebrand Books, 1988. https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLr6JvJLLs1EJ1cMwHdUq_27QN20ZqhOER&si=livX5OmNZS750Wqzhttps://www.lipsticklibationsliberation.com/

This conversation explores the historical and contemporary issues surrounding Black women's reproductive health, emphasizing the importance of autonomy over their bodies. The speakers reflect on personal experiences, the legacy of ancestral midwives, and the impact of medical interventions on Black women's health. They discuss the need for empowerment and reclaiming control over reproductive choices, while honoring the struggles and contributions of past generations.KeywordsBlack women, reproductive health, midwives, autonomy, historical context, medical interventions, trauma, empowerment, motherhood, legacyTexts Cited: All the Black Girls Are Activists; A Fourth Wave Womanist Pursuit of Dreams as Radical Resistance, by ebonyjanice "A Litany for Survival" by Audre Lorde

pMichelle and Stephanie explore the themes of self-love, priorities for the new year, and the importance of carefully curating connections. They also delve into the significance of love and luxury, as well as the lessons learned in 2025. The conversation covers the themes of loss, grief, connection, and the decision to leave group chats. These ladies also delve into the importance of authentic connection, letting go, and embracing love as a guiding principle in life.TakeawaysSelf-love is essential for healthy relationships.Prioritizing connections, learning new skills, and embracing luxury are key themes for the new year. Loss and grief: The speaker reflects on the multiple losses experienced, emphasizing the importance of cherishing time with loved ones.Authentic connection: The conversation highlights the significance of authentic and meaningful connections with individuals, as well as the decision to leave group chats that no longer serve a positive purpose.Embracing love: The speaker references the importance of embracing love as a guiding principle in life, drawing from sacred writings and affirming the choice to lead a life of love.Letting go: The conversation emphasizes the importance of letting go of spaces and relationships that no longer align with personal growth and well-being.

The podcast episode begins with a reflection on life, love, and the passage of time, paying homage to Zora Neale Hurston. pMichelle discusses her absence, the challenges of motherhood, and the impact of the pandemic on her life. She and Stephanie also share their views on gift-giving, teacher appreciation, and work holiday parties. pMichelle and Stephanie share their thoughts on authenticity, work relationships, and dating in their 40s. They reflect on the journey of self-discovery and the challenges of finding genuine connections in the workplace and their personal lives.TakeawaysUnapologetic self-expression and reflection on life and loveChallenges of motherhood and the impact of the pandemicViews on gift-giving, teacher appreciation, and work holiday parties Authenticity in relationshipsChallenges of dating in your 40sChapters00:00 Teacher Appreciation and Work Holiday Parties30:30 Authenticity and Work Relationships36:42 Navigating Work Holiday Parties45:09 Reflections on Dating in Your 40s

Hey!!! It's pMichelle...and I'm back with a new season...

In this episode, P. Michelle sits down with her mom, Patty, and Aunt Laura to discuss their journey as educators in segregated Mississippi schools as well as their experiences post segregation. They share what their childhood school experiences were like, college during the Civil Rights Movement and the hidden truth, (like the murder of Medgar Evers), as well as the Great Migration. Two sisters on a journey to create the best educational experiences possible for children like them. They are living history, and we honor them and express our gratitude for their sacrifices along the way.

In this episode P Michelle chats with Dr. Shanta Whitaker and Tanya Bridges, Esquire about the major challenges of leading and excelling as a black woman in the constant face of adversity. We discuss how to establish yourself and maintain credibility, how to secure mentors and sponsors in your field, overcoming blatant racism and micro-aggressive behaviors, code-switching effectively, and just being all around magical!! Don't be fooled, by Ivy League credentials they earned later,  both these women pay homage to their HBCU undergrad institutions as well. Get out your notepad and listen closely on how to exude magic, no matter what!! 

In this episode, P Michelle sits down with her mom friends Rabiah & Stephanie to talk all things motherhood!! We discuss the major joys and challenges of our lives as moms including; finding your "mom" voice, maintaining your own identity, some of the challenges of parenting and how we overcome them, especially co-parenting...and we close out with "I wish my mom told me..." things that new moms definitely don't want to miss! Get your notebook, earbuds, and lock in for the next few as we share tons of tips, tools, and mommy magic ✨

In this episode, P Michelle sits down with her good friends L. Sherie Dean & Nurse Brooke to share tips for how to balance it ALL. We talk about maintaining a work/life balance while being a Young, Gifted, & Black Female. We explore love life & dating when the world is telling you to be          I N D E P E N D E N T, as Webbie said back in '08. We also share tons of tips and tools for those of you considering being an "entrepreneur" versus punching a clock forever. Get your journals out and take notes! These ladies have tons to share :)

In this episode, P. Michelle sits downs with girlfriends Brandi, Leigh, and Joelle to discuss their transition from college to the world of work...or at least for some of us, right Leigh ;) . We talk about balancing our new workload and adjusting to male dominated workplaces, love life & dating, figuring out your path and so many other shenanigans in those first few years of "Living Single". We also share some strategies to survive the failures, and take note of the lessons. Enjoy!!

It's a different world, from where you come from...the college years & you think you're grown. Yes, we "know our parents love us; stand  behind us, come what may"...if you can dish it, we can take it. This is the theme music to our entire college experience! In this episode P Michelle sits down again with Tekenya, Monique, Tish, Machie, Summer & CT. In part 1, the ladies explored what freshmen year and new found independence felt like. In part 2, the ladies will discuss internships, having black female mentors, OR NOT, and what closing out the college years and entering the real world of work felt like. You don't want to miss the tips & tools shared. 

The conversation delves into the concept of sacred obligation and the responsibility that comes with being in a position of power. It also explores the idea of black privilege and the challenges faced by black individuals in positions of power. Additionally, it addresses issues of exclusion and discrimination in education and reflects on the legacy of Jesse Jackson.TakeawaysPosition of PowerBlack PrivilegeKeywords:#Blackprivilege #JesseJackson #systemicbarriers  #leadership  #communityempowerment #education #systemicracism #blackexcellence #socialjustice #personalgrowth  Listener action itemsReflect on your own use of power and privilegeSupport systemic change in education and community programsFollow and amplify black leadership voices Hot takes: "We are the moral inhabitants of the galaxy.""Black privilege can sometimes lead to gatekeeping.""Systemic barriers exclude talented black students." References: Jesse Jackson's Legacy - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jesse_JacksonSystemic Racism in Education - https://www.edweek.org/leadership/systemic-racism-in-education/2021/09Black Leadership and Community Organizing - https://www.blackpast.org/african-american-history/black-leadership/ LinksInstagram - https://instagram.com/lipsticklibationsliberationLipsticklibationsliberation.com 

This conversation delves into the multifaceted experiences of Black women, focusing on the value of sisterhood, the challenges of competition, and the importance of community support. pMichelle + Stephanie reflect on personal experiences, media influences, and the need for accountability and empowerment among women. They also discuss the significance of intergenerational relationships and the role of influential women in their lives, culminating in a discussion about the themes of friendship in the film 'Waiting to Exhale.'TakeawaysBlack women are inherently valuable and deserve liberation.No other movement has prioritized the specific oppression of Black women.Sisterhood can be transformative, uplifting, and challenging.The patriarchy encourages competition among women.Media representations influence perceptions of sisterhood.Accountability is essential in sisterhood.Teaching the next generation about healthy competition is crucial.Empowering spaces for Black women foster community support.Intergenerational relationships provide nurturing and guidance.Friendship is a primary source of support during life's challenges.Sound bites"Black women are inherently valuable.""We were influenced by that imagery.""You are your own competition."Texts cited: The Combahee River Collective. "The Combahee River Collective Statement." 1977. BlackPast.org, 1 Nov. 2015, www.blackpast.org/african-american-history/combahee-river-collective-statement-1977/

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