BACKTalk Podcast by Successful Black Parenting Magazine

Khadijah VanBrakle is a Black Muslim woman and contemporary young adult author living in the Southwestern United States. Born and raised in Canada to American parents, she writes stories that reflect the dual marginalization of Black American Muslim teens, because for far too long, those voices have been missing from the shelves. Her 2023 debut novel, Fatima Tate Takes The Cake, and her upcoming release, My Perfect Family (out August 26, 2025), center young Muslim girls navigating adolescence while holding space for identity, faith, and family. Her work is published by Holiday House. Learn more at khadijahvanbrakle.com or follow her @khadijahvanbrakle on Instagram.

What if Black mothers didn’t have to do it all alone? In this powerful episode of BACKtalk, Trishay “Mama Yata” Young—Founder of Melanin Mothers Meet and warrior for Black maternal health—shares how to reclaim rest and activate your village after childbirth. From delegating tasks to building community rituals that protect your peace, Mama Yata drops wisdom every parent needs to hear. Tune in to learn how her home birth and breastfeeding journey led to a movement that’s redefining postpartum for Black and Brown moms everywhere.🍼 Perfect for new parents, doulas, aunties, and anyone who believes in the power of showing up for Black motherhood.#BlackMaternalHealth #PostpartumSupport #MelaninMothersMeet #BACKtalkPodcast

Black youth are under pressure—and the mental health cost is rising. From the relentless grip of social media to the weight of racial trauma and cultural stigma, many of our children are suffering in silence. In this powerful BACKtalk episode, we sit down with Dr. Cedric X. Bryant, CEO of the American Council on Exercise and a leading expert in behavior-change science, to unpack the real stressors Black children face today—and what parents can do right now to help.We talk about:How social media uniquely affects Black youthSigns your child may be silently strugglingBreaking generational cycles of mental health stigmaEasy lifestyle changes that boost emotional wellnessWhy sleep, movement, and open conversations are criticalIf you’ve ever wondered how to support your child’s mental well-being better—or just want to know what to watch for—this is the conversation every Black parent needs to hear.🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6718473823059968

https://www.SuccessfulBlackParenting.com -- Award-winning author Derrick Barnes joins BACKtalk to share the powerful story behind his newest picture book, I Got You: A Brother’s Promise. Inspired by his own four sons—aka the Mighty Barnes Brothers—this heartwarming tale celebrates brotherhood, empathy, and the ups and downs of growing up Black and brilliant.We talked about:- The importance of showing Black boy joy in literature- How he fought to keep one of his books from being banned - Raising confident sons in today’s world- About his newest book, "I Got You"- The real-life sibling bond that inspired Rasheed & Anthony- Why emotional honesty matters in Black families- How illustrator Shamar Knight-Justice brings this love to life💬 Don’t miss this conversation—it’s about more than a book. It’s a celebration of Black family, fatherhood, and what it means to say “I got you.”📚 I Got You hits shelves July 15, 2025 — preorder now!🔗 https://amzn.to/3TDkeRA#DerrickBarnes #BlackParenting #IGotYou #Brotherhood #BlackBoyJoy #PictureBooks #RaisingBoys #BACKtalkPodcast #SuccessfulBlackParenting

He walked in space, but hates roller coasters. 🚀 Go figure!In this episode of BACKtalk, we sit down with Dr. Bernard A. Harris Jr., the first African American to walk in space, to talk about his surprising fears, his journey from humble beginnings to NASA astronaut, and why his biggest mission today is helping Black and Brown kids unlock their potential through STEM, education, and mentorship.Dr. Harris shares powerful advice for parents raising children to dream without limits, how to nurture curiosity early, and what it really means to invest in the future, from the classroom to venture capital. Parents, get his book for yourself titled, Embracing Infinite Possibilities: Letting Go Of Fear To Find Your Highest Potential.🎧 Don’t miss this inspiring conversation full of laughter, legacy, and life lessons for the whole village.#AstronautLife #BlackExcellence #STEMEducation #SuccessfulBlackParenting #BACKtalkPodcast #RepresentationMatters #ParentingPower

What does it take to become the first Black woman puppeteer on Sesame Street—and then use that platform to change lives?In this powerful episode of BACKtalk, we sit down with Megan Piphus, the 4x Emmy-winning performer, producer, and author who voices Gabrielle on Sesame Street and inspires millions of children worldwide.But Megan is more than a voice behind a puppet—she’s a movement. From going viral as a ventriloquist to producing Cinderella Sweep, a music album that empowered 60+ girls of color across the country, Megan shares how she’s using puppetry, music, and storytelling to help children find their own voices.You’ll laugh, you’ll tear up, and you’ll walk away feeling empowered.✨ Plus: Hear the inside scoop on her upcoming children’s book Talk to the Hand (Penguin), how Keke Palmer’s nonprofit joined the mission, and why representation in children's media isn't optional—it's essential.📢 This episode is a must-listen for parents, educators, creators, and anyone who believes in the power of purpose-driven storytelling.👉🏾 Hit play and get inspired.#SesameStreet #BlackGirlMagic #MeganPiphus #GabrielleSesameStreet #BACKtalkPodcast #RepresentationMatters #VentriloquistQueen #TalkToTheHand #CinderellaSweep #minister #minsitry

Are we parenting with purpose—or by default? Join host Janice Robinson-Celeste and guest Mama Bolanle Ambonisye, founder of Tapping Our Parental Power (TOPP), for a transformational conversation on how to break generational trauma and raise empowered, emotionally resilient Black children. Learn how her new parenting manual is equipping families with the tools to create nurturing homes, set healthy boundaries, and guide children through life with confidence, purpose, and cultural pride.Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or community leader, this is the parenting reset you've been waiting for.

A special Father’s Day week episode of BACKtalk: Host Janice Robinson-Celeste sits down with Javon Fraizer, founder of Maestro Media, to explore how play becomes a powerful love language in family life.From adapting popular video games into record-breaking tabletop experiences to co-developing with fans, Javon reveals how laughter, board games, and spontaneous fun can strengthen bonds, lower stress, and boost well-being.He also shares practical tips for busy parents on carving out play moments, maintaining a thriving business without sacrificing family time, and creating lasting memories with your children.Kickstarter campaigns:• Clash of Clans: The Epic Raid – https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/maestromedia/clash-of-clans-the-epic-raid• All Maestro Media projects – https://www.kickstarter.com/profile/maestromedia/created#Fatherhood #PlayIsLove #BoardGames #TabletopGaming #FamilyTime #MaestroMedia #ParentingTips #StressRelief

Actor and dad Anthony E. Williams joins Janice Robinson-Celeste on BACKtalk to talk fatherhood, film, and breaking stereotypes. From his series F.A.M. to Straw on Netflix, hear how he balances career and family—and why Black fatherhood needs new narratives.#BlackFatherhood #FAMPilot #AnthonyEWilliams #StrawMovie #SuccessfulBlackParenting #BACKtalkPodcast

Many expectant parents aren’t offered essential prenatal testing. In this “Know More Sooner” episode, Dr. Dallas Reed breaks down the myths, facts, and real stories behind NIPS, Prequel®, Foresight®, and SneakPeek®—so you can ask better questions and feel empowered.#PrenatalTesting #PregnancyPodcast #KnowMoreSooner #GeneticScreening #BlackMomsMatter #ExpectingParents

Phnewfula, founder of Happy Mango and mom of two, keeps it real about raising Black children with pride, setting boundaries (no pink bussdowns at 10!), and breaking stereotypes—all while running a business. From school bias to social media image battles, this episode is a must for every Black mom raising the next generation.#BACKtalkPodcast #BlackMomVoices #ParentingUnfiltered #RealMomTalk #MomLifePodcast #ParentingDifferences #NoPinkBussdowns #ModernMotherhood #SocialMediaVsReality #SchoolBias #GentleParenting #MomBossLife #BlackWomenInBusiness #MompreneurLife #BlackOwnedBusiness #HappyMangoATL #BlackMomsRaisingBlackChildren #RaisingBlackChildren #BlackMotherhood #BlackBoyJoy #BlackGirlMagic #UnapologeticallyBlack

This literature review from the National Black Child Development Institute’s Black Infant and Maternal Health Task Force takes a hard look at Black maternal and infant health disparities through the lenses of anti-Black racism, intersectionality, and Afrofuturism. You’ll learn how structural racism and racial trauma drive adverse birth outcomes, like low birth weight, and contribute to preventable maternal deaths. We’ll also explore an Afrofuturist Systems Design Process that centers Black experiences, knowledge, and community wisdom to forge transformative, equity-driven solutions.Whether you’re a parent, in health care, education, or policy, join us as we outline the comprehensive policy reforms and structural changes needed to dismantle oppressive systems and ensure Black families not only survive but thrive.🔍 Key Takeaways:The role of structural racism in maternal and infant healthIntersectional factors that exacerbate adverse birth outcomesAn introduction to Afrofuturist Systems Design for health equityActionable strategies for policy, clinical practice, and community leadership🎧 Listen, Follow & ShareHelp us reach more professionals by following BACKtalk on Spotify, leaving a ⭐ rating, and sharing this episode with your network!#BlackMaternalHealth #InfantHealthEquity #HealthEquity #StructuralRacism #Afrofuturism #PolicyChange #EducationEquity #BlackFamiliesThriveDisclosure: This review was generated by AI.

Being a single Black mom is rarely framed as powerful or successful, but Dr. Vicki Wright-Hamilton is here to change that.In this inspiring episode of BACKtalk, host Janice Robinson-Celeste speaks with Dr. Vicki about her groundbreaking book and documentary Diary of Successful Black Single Mothers. They dive into the truth behind single motherhood, breaking stereotypes, and how to define success on your own terms. From launching a skincare line to creating a board game and founding a certification program for single moms, Dr. Vicki shows that success isn’t one-size-fits-all.🎧 Listen in for wisdom, motivation, and the reminder that your story is still being written and it's powerful.⏱️ Episode Timestamps – Diary of Successful Black Single Mothers00:00 – Intro and welcome to BACKtalk01:00 – Meet Dr. Vicki Wright-Hamilton and her background03:00 – What inspired the anthology and documentary project06:00 – Breaking the stigma around Black single mothers09:00 – Stories that moved her most in the project12:00 – Why redefining success is essential15:00 – The Emory-backed certification program for single moms18:00 – From tech executive to author: Vicki’s career journey21:00 – Launching a skincare line and a board game24:00 – Balancing ambition and wellness27:00 – What true success looks like for Black single moms30:00 – How to support the movement and get involved33:00 – Final words of encouragement and wrap-up

Impostor syndrome doesn’t start in adulthood. For many Black children, the seeds of self-doubt are planted early.In this powerful episode of BACKtalk, host Janice Robinson-Celeste speaks with Drs. Lisa and Richard Orbe-Austin—renowned psychologists, executive coaches, TEDx speakers, and authors of Your Child’s Greatness: A Parent’s Guide to Raising Children Without Impostor Syndrome (Ulysses Press, 2025).They break down how parents can spot early warning signs, affirm identity, and help their children develop lasting self-confidence.🎧 You’ll learn:• How impostor syndrome shows up in children• Ways to build identity-affirming spaces at home• What parents can do to stop self-doubt early• Tools to raise confident, self-assured kids📚 Get the book: https://amzn.to/3Ez6Cmx

What does a name really mean? For many Black and immigrant children, it means identity, heritage, and pride. But what happens when the world tells them their name is too different?In this special episode of BACKtalk by Successful Black Parenting Magazine, host Janice Robinson-Celeste talks with bestselling author and “Professional Troublemaker” Luvvie Ajayi Jones about her powerful new children’s book Little Troublemaker Defends Her Name. Inspired by her own story of growing up Nigerian-American, Luvvie shares how parents can help kids stand tall in who they are, starting with their names.🎧 Topics include:• Why names matter and how they shape confidence• How to help kids respond to microaggressions• The emotional impact of never seeing your name on a keychain• Tips for parents raising bold, unapologetic children• Luvvie’s movement to get 10,000 books into classroomsFind Little Troublemaker Defends Her Name on Amazon: https://amzn.to/42XFl5jFollow Luvvie everywhere @LuvvieFollow us @SuccessfulBlackParentingTIMESTAMP00:00 – Intro and welcome 02:45 – Luvvie explains the meaning of her name 05:30 – Why she calls herself a “Professional Troublemaker” 12:10 – Story behind *Little Troublemaker Defends Her Name* 18:35 – How mispronouncing names becomes a microaggression 25:00 – Advice for parents raising bold kids 31:20 – Where to get the book and join the sponsorship train

Why are Black women still three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes in the U.S.?In this powerful episode of BACKtalk, host Janice Robinson-Celeste speaks with OB-GYN and advocate Dr. Faith Ahuba during Black Maternal Health Week. They discuss systemic racism in healthcare, personal stories of survival, implicit bias, and what real advocacy looks like for moms, dads, and communities.🎧 Dr. Ahuba shares her own postpartum experience, the role of doulas, and how faith and mindset can help us heal. This is more than a conversation—it's a wake-up call.🔗 Learn more at SuccessfulBlackParenting.com📘 Get Dr. Ahuba’s book Peace Rx on Amazon📲 Follow us @SuccessfulBlackParenting⏱️ Episode Timestamps – Black Maternal Health Awareness Week00:00 – Intro and launch of Black Maternal Health Awareness Week01:00 – Why Black maternal mortality is a crisis03:00 – Guest intro: Dr. Asoha Faith Ahuba shares her background05:00 – Icebreaker: What most people don’t know about Dr. Faith07:00 – Why Black women are still dying at higher rates in 202510:00 – Root causes: systemic racism, empathy, and provider education13:00 – Patient self-advocacy and the CDC’s ‘Hear Her’ initiative16:00 – Janice shares her personal story of being mistreated during labor20:00 – What providers can do differently and why implicit bias training matters24:00 – Fear of retaliation: Why some Black patients stay silent27:00 – How to strategically escalate complaints during birth care30:00 – Why advocacy should be taught in birthing classes33:00 – Should you find a Black OB-GYN or just an empathetic one?36:00 – Preconception health and planning for safer pregnancies39:00 – Dr. Faith’s message to scared Black moms: Faith over fear42:00 – How generational trauma shows up during pregnancy45:00 – Dr. Faith’s book Peace Rx and the role of faith in healing48:00 – What policies would Dr. Faith implement if she had the power51:00 – Should hospitals publish maternal mortality data?53:00 – How to advocate effectively and where to find Dr. Faith’s work55:00 – Closing thoughts and thanks from Janice Robinson-Celeste#BlackMaternalHealthWeek #BACKtalk #BlackMomsMatter

In this heartfelt episode of BACKtalk, host Janice Robinson-Celeste sits down with Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock to discuss his new children’s picture book, We’re In This Together: Leo’s Lunchbox. Inspired by the biblical story of the Feeding of the Five Thousand, this modern parable follows a young boy named Leo who learns that sharing—even when you don’t have much—can lead to unexpected abundance.Together, they dive into topics like food insecurity, the threats to free lunch programs and SNAP benefits, the importance of early childhood education like Head Start, and why faith, compassion, and community must guide the way we raise our children, especially in today’s divided climate.Senator Warnock also opens up about his inspiration for Leo’s story, his memories as a “free lunch kid,” and how parenting his two young children shapes his values and vision for the future.Tune in for a conversation full of truth, tenderness, and purpose.⏱️ Episode Timestamps – Leo’s Lunchbox with Rev. Raphael Warnock00:00 – Welcome and introduction to the episode00:50 – The reality of food insecurity for children in America02:00 – Senator Warnock joins the show and introduces himself03:40 – Signature icebreaker: the parenting lesson that shaped his life05:15 – The inspiration behind Leo’s Lunchbox and the biblical roots07:40 – Why the book centers a child facing poverty and scarcity10:20 – Discussion on child poverty, SNAP, Head Start, and public policy13:30 – How storytelling can influence national values and compassion15:00 – Dr. King’s “Beloved Community” and the message of giving17:30 – A real-life memory that inspired Leo’s character19:00 – The importance of inclusive, diverse children’s literature21:00 – Being a dad: how parenting reshaped how he communicates big ideas23:30 – Writing for children vs. writing for adults25:20 – Why “second chances” is a core message in the book27:00 – The role of faith-based values in parenting today28:45 – Final thoughts and where to find the book and follow Rev. Warnock30:00 – Outro and call to action from Janice Robinson-Celeste

Eloise Drane has been a 6-time egg donor and 3-time surrogate, but her greatest legacy might be how she’s reshaping the fertility industry itself. In this powerful episode of BACKtalk, host Janice Robinson-Celeste speaks with Eloise about founding Family Inceptions, the first Black woman-owned fertility agency in the U.S., and how she’s breaking down barriers for intended parents, surrogates, and egg donors, especially Black women. From discrimination in fertility clinics to the emotional and physical realities of surrogacy, Eloise gets real about what it takes to build a family and why inclusion matters.⏱️ Episode Timestamps – Womb Work with Eloise Drane00:00 – Welcome and introduction to the episode01:00 – Meet Eloise Drane and the inspiration behind Family Inceptions04:00 – Icebreaker: A childhood lesson that still guides Eloise06:00 – Eloise’s first experience as an egg donor and how it went wrong10:00 – The turning point: discovering Black women do need fertility support13:00 – Becoming a surrogate and founding her own agency17:00 – Facing discrimination in the fertility space20:00 – The emotional and mental strength required for donation and surrogacy24:00 – Why the fertility industry is dominated by white leadership27:00 – How fertility work impacts legacy and community30:00 – Compensation details and requirements for egg donation and surrogacy34:00 – Understanding gestational vs. traditional surrogacy37:00 – Steps to become an egg donor or surrogate40:00 – Fertility360: Full-spectrum reproductive care and education43:00 – Why Black families need early education on reproductive health46:00 – Costs and options for families seeking surrogates or donors49:00 – Addressing Black maternal health risks and state laws52:00 – Where to find Eloise and learn more about Family Inceptions54:00 – Final thoughts and wrap-up from Janice Robinson-Celeste

🏈✨ From NFL Champion to Creative PowerhouseIn this inspiring episode of the BACKtalk Podcast, we sit down with Martellus Bennett—Super Bowl Champion, author, animator, and world-builder—to talk about his powerful children’s book, Dear Black Boy.Martellus opens up about why he walked away from football at the top of his game to pursue what he calls his “real job”: creating space for Black children to dream without limits.We explore:🔹 The meaning behind Dear Black Boy🔹 Why imagination is revolutionary for Black youth🔹 How parenting is life coaching in its truest form🔹 What it takes to break generational barriers and build new worldsWhether you’re a parent, educator, or just someone who believes in the power of Black storytelling, this episode will inspire you to lead, love, and create with purpose.📚 Dear Black Boy is more than a book—it’s a movement.🎧 Tune in now and tag someone who needs to hear this.⏱️ Episode Timestamps – Martellus Bennett on Dreaming Big & Dear Black Boy00:00 – Intro and welcome to BACKtalk01:00 – Meet Martellus Bennett: NFL star turned children's book author04:00 – Favorite NFL memories and his connection to food06:00 – Why he started writing children's books while playing football10:00 – The lack of representation in children’s books for Black girls13:00 – Why he focuses on expanding Black boys’ imagination17:00 – The inspiration behind Dear Black Boy20:00 – Sports as metaphor: life beyond the game24:00 – Helping Black boys dream bigger with more than sports28:00 – The power of storytelling and identity for Black kids32:00 – How Black men can be gardeners of potential35:00 – Reflections vs. representation in children’s media39:00 – Why he doesn’t limit himself to one creative role42:00 – Teaching kids to rewrite their own story45:00 – Raising a creative child: messy, joyful, and intentional49:00 – Participation in your child's imagination52:00 – Honoring and passing on Black history through storytelling56:00 – What's next: tech, video games, AR storytelling, and Disney60:00 – Closing remarks and where to find Martellus Bennett online

🎧 Only 73% of Black newborns are ever breastfed — but why? And what’s standing in the way of support that all parents deserve?In this powerful episode of BACKtalk with host Janice Robinson-Celeste, we sit down with expert lactation consultant Dr. Clifton Kenon Jr., IBCLC, DNP, RN to uncover the root causes of breastfeeding disparities in the Black community. From systemic barriers to cultural stigma and lack of access, we explore what’s really going on — and how to change it.💡 Breastfeeding equity means making sure every parent, regardless of race, income, or location, has equal access to support, education, and care. It’s about giving every baby the healthiest start possible — and it’s long overdue.Whether you’re a parent, advocate, or simply care about health justice, this conversation will open your eyes and fire you up for change.🍼 Hosted by Janice Robinson-Celeste of Successful Black Parenting Magazine. Tune in now — your voice and your village matter.⏱️ Episode Timestamps – Breastfeeding Disparities with Dr. Keenan00:00 – Intro and welcome to BACKtalk01:00 – Meet Dr. Clifton Keenan Jr. and his extensive work in lactation04:00 – Icebreaker: Fun facts about Dr. Keenan06:00 – Why breastfeeding is a critical health issue in the Black community09:00 – Understanding breastfeeding disparities and historical context13:00 – How systemic racism and medical mistrust impact breastfeeding17:00 – Cultural normalization and family/community support21:00 – Access to care: rural health, food deserts, and support systems25:00 – The legacy of wet nursing and reclaiming breastfeeding pride28:00 – Culturally competent lactation care and community education32:00 – Inclusive lactation support for LGBTQ+ and non-traditional families36:00 – Creating breastfeeding-friendly public and private spaces40:00 – Addressing stigma and supporting bystander advocacy44:00 – Longer-term breastfeeding: why two years is the standard47:00 – How hospitals and birth centers can support lactation51:00 – Why every parent deserves lactation support54:00 – Where parents can turn for resources and community help57:00 – How to connect with Dr. Keenan and final thoughts