Thank You For Saying NO

The Thank You For Saying NO Podcast is about finding a way to be thankful when we’ve been told “no.” The word “no” is supposed to be reflective of all of life’s unexpected turns. Whether it’s rejection from a job, a relationship ending, having to pick up your life and make a move you didn’t want to, losing someone close to you, any sort of life altering event that you did not expect. The conversations on this podcast will inspire you that when you’re told no or when things don’t go according to plan, it will still work out, potentially even better than you could have ever imagined.

S3E7 - The Real Deal on Sobriety & Hollywood with Tanjareen

In this episode of Thank You For Saying NO, actress, comedian, and producer Tanjareen joins the show for an unforgettable conversation about resilience, sobriety, and carving her own path in the entertainment industry. Tanjareen opens up about getting sober at just 16 and how that pivotal NO shaped the course of her life. We also dive into the highs and lows of Hollywood, navigating rejection, and the power of creating your own opportunities when doors don’t open. From stand-up stages to hit shows like Insecure and Curb Your Enthusiasm, Tanjareen’s fearless storytelling and sharp humor shine through in everything she does. Tune in for an inspiring and hilarious episode that proves every “no” can lead to something even better!   Going to therapy is a sign of strength, not weakness. BetterHelp makes therapy simple, with 10% off your first month to help you get started: https://betterhelp.com/https://betterhelp.com/thankyouforsayingno. (Sponsored by BetterHelp)   Follow @thankyouforsayingno on social media for exclusive content and updates!   Hosted by @miss_kenyaaaaa   Special Guest Tanjareen @officialtanjareen https://www.tanjareen.com/   Cover Art by @emmaporter.world   Intro and Outro Music by Mike Scully  @Mikescullymusic    Songs Power, Juice, and Strut by Iyla  @iyla    TYFSN Merch: https://thank-you-for-saying-no.printify.me/products      TYFSN Submissions: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1DNYrXgfdMaqY32ekxPg5TO0oVX_1p0PR8iFQsuLu5eQ/edit

04-02
35:43

S3E6 - From Opera Singer to Reality Host: The Truth about Dream Jobs

In this episode of Thank You For Saying NO, we welcome back the incredible Matt Marr! An actor, therapist, and host of the hit comedy podcast Reality Gays—and even an opera singer. Matt’s journey is filled with unexpected twists, NO moments, and powerful lessons. We dive into his “superpower” of empathy and how it has guided him through life’s pivots, from studying opera to becoming a therapist and launching the Dear Mattie podcast, which led to surprising opportunities. We also explore the creation of Reality Gays, how it aligns with his passions, and the life-changing rejection that ultimately shaped his path. With humor, heart, and hard-won wisdom, Matt’s story is a reminder that every NO can lead to an even greater YES. Tune in for an inspiring conversation!   Follow @thankyouforsayingno on social media for exclusive content and updates!   Hosted by @miss_kenyaaaaa   Special Guest Matt Marr from @reality gays   Cover Art by @emmaporter.world   Intro and Outro Music by Mike Scully  @Mikescullymusic    Songs Juice and Strut by Iyla  @iyla    TYFSN Merch: https://thank-you-for-saying-no.printify.me/products    TYFSN Submissions: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1DNYrXgfdMaqY32ekxPg5TO0oVX_1p0PR8iFQsuLu5eQ/edit

03-12
50:40

S3E5 - Dre Smith On The Truth About Waiting For Marriage, Dating, & Rejection

Dre Smith is back! In season 1, he gave us a powerful Rejection Reflection, and we knew we had to bring him back for a deeper conversation. If you don’t already know Dre, he’s the founder and CEO of Relationship Restored, host of Real Love Scenario and Worth Thee Wait, and has even shared his journey on Red Table Talk alongside his wife in a candid discussion about marriage. In this episode, we dive into the NO moments that shaped Dre’s path in dating and marriage. We talk about his dating rejections that led to self-reflection and personal growth. Dre gets into how to distinguish between healthy rejection and personal insecurity. Dre shares his experience with waiting until marriage, setting boundaries, how saying NO strengthens relationships, navigating disagreements, external influences, and evolving relationship dynamics. Tune in and find out why sometimes, the best thing that can happen is hearing NO.   Follow @thankyouforsayingno on social media for exclusive content and updates!   Hosted by @miss_kenyaaaaa   Special Guest Dre Smith @itsdresmith   Cover Art by @emmaporter.world   Intro and Outro Music by Mike Scully  @Mikescullymusic    Songs Juice and Strut by Iyla  @iyla    TYFSN Merch: https://thank-you-for-saying-no.printify.me/products    TYFSN Submissions: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1DNYrXgfdMaqY32ekxPg5TO0oVX_1p0PR8iFQsuLu5eQ/edit

02-25
49:54

S3E4 DoBoy - Demons & Dreams

In this episode of Thank You For Saying NO, Kenya sits down with the hilarious and inspiring DoBoy —comedian, actor, rapper, producer, and writer. You might know him from Nick Cannon's Wild ‘N Out, but today, we’re diving deeper than comedy. From childhood struggles to breaking into entertainment, DoBoy shares the unexpected turns that shaped his career and personal growth.   We talk about the NO moments that redirected his path, the pressures of the entertainment industry, and his evolving journey with mental health. DoBoy opens up about hitting rock bottom, overcoming setbacks, and finding success.   Follow @thankyouforsayingno on social media for exclusive content and updates!   Hosted by @miss_kenyaaaaa   Special Guest Doboy @Iamdoboy   Cover Art by @emmaporter.world   Intro and Outro Music by Mike Scully  @Mikescullymusic    Songs Juice and Strut by Iyla   @iyla    TYFSN Merch: https://thank-you-for-saying-no.printify.me/products    TYFSN Submissions: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1DNYrXgfdMaqY32ekxPg5TO0oVX_1p0PR8iFQsuLu5eQ/edit 

02-11
49:50

S3E3 Lexie Brown - WNBA Basketball, Wisdom, & Winning Against The Odds

In this episode of Thank You for Saying NO, Kenya sits down with WNBA star Lexie Brown—a champion, a leader, and a relentless competitor. Lexie has played for the Connecticut Sun, Minnesota Lynx, Chicago Sky (where she won the 2021 WNBA Championship), and now, the Los Angeles Sparks. But her journey hasn’t been a straight path—it’s been full of unexpected turns, hard “no” moments, and unwavering resilience. Lexie opens up about the highs and lows of her career, from being waived to winning a championship, how setbacks with multiple teams led to unexpected opportunities, her battle with Crohn’s disease and making the tough choice to prioritize her health, and how she’s redefining success, stepping into leadership, and embracing her role with Athletes Unlimited. Through every challenge, Lexie has found strength in rejection and power in perseverance. Tune in as she shares how the hardest “no” moments became the stepping stones to her biggest wins—on and off the court.   Follow @thankyouforsayingno on social media for exclusive content and updates!   Hosted by @miss_kenyaaaaa   Special Guest Lexie Brown @lexiebrown   Cover Art by @emmaporter.world   Intro and Outro Music by Mike Scully @mikescullymusic   Songs Juice and Strut by Iyla @iyla   TYFSN Merch: https://thank-you-for-saying-no.printify.me/products   TYFSN Submissions: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1DNYrXgfdMaqY32ekxPg5TO0oVX_1p0PR8iFQsuLu5eQ/edit 

02-04
54:40

S3E2 - Rabbi Steven Carr Reuben on Becoming a Rabbi, Rejection, & Resilience

      In this episode of Thank You for Saying NO, we’re joined by Rabbi Steven Carr Reuben of Temple Kehillat Israel for a profound conversation about his journey becoming and serving as a rabbi. Rabbi Reuben shares the pivotal moments of rejection that shaped his life and career, the lessons they taught him, and how they ultimately strengthened his purpose and resilience. Together, Kenya and Rabbi Reuben explore how rejection can be a guiding force, not just a stumbling block, and the power of turning NO into YES.   Over 300 families at Temple Kehillat Israel lost their homes to the Palisades fire in January 2025. You can support the members of Temple Kehillat Israel who lost their homes by donating to the KI Community Palisades Fire Assistance Fund. The proceeds of this fund will aide those who have suffered catastrophic losses and are in need of financial assistance. https://www.ourki.org/firefund    Follow @thankyouforsayingno on social media for exclusive content and updates!   Hosted by @miss_kenyaaaaa   Special Guest Rabbi Steven Carr Reuben   Cover Art by @emmaporter.world   Intro and Outro Music by  @Mikescullymusic    Songs Juice and Strut by Iyla   @iyla    TYFSN Merch: https://thank-you-for-saying-no.printify.me/products   TYFSN Submissions: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1DNYrXgfdMaqY32ekxPg5TO0oVX_1p0PR8iFQsuLu5eQ/edit  

01-28
53:17

S3E1 - Janelle Ginestra on Dance, Divorce, and Determination

In this episode of Thank You For Saying NO, Kenya sits down with renowned dancer and choreographer Janelle Ginestra to explore the power of rejection in shaping life's most transformative moments. From navigating the highs and lows of a dynamic career in dance to the personal challenges of divorce, Janelle shares her raw, unfiltered insights on resilience, self-discovery, and turning "no" into an opportunity for growth. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that proves every setback can lead to an even greater comeback.   Follow @thankyouforsayingno on social media for exclusive content and updates!   Hosted by @miss_kenyaaaaa   Special Guest Janelle Ginestra @janelleginestra founder of @naughtygirl.fitness   Cover Art by @emmaporter.world   Intro and Outro Music by @mikescullymusic   Songs Juice and Strut by Iyla @iyla   TYFSN Merch: https://thank-you-for-saying-no.printify.me/products   TYFSN Submissions: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1DNYrXgfdMaqY32ekxPg5TO0oVX_1p0PR8iFQsuLu5eQ/edit 

01-07
39:58

S3E10 - Keith Johnson on How Rejection Made Him a Funnier Stand-Up Comedian

In this episode of Thank You for Saying NO, comedian and actor Keith Johnson opens up about some of his NO moments in comedy and how those rejections became essential turning points in his journey. Keith shares how redirection helped him fine-tune his voice and lean into a style that feels authentic to who he is. Through humor, honesty, and a deep respect for the process, Keith reminds us that NO isn’t the end of the story—it’s often where the real work (and joy) begins.   Going to therapy is a sign of strength, not weakness. BetterHelp makes therapy simple, with 10% off your first month to help you get started: https://betterhelp.com/thankyouforsayingno (Sponsored by BetterHelp)   Follow @thankyouforsayingno on social media for exclusive content and updates!   Hosted by @miss_kenyaaaaa   Special Guest Keith Johnson @keithjohnsonhq   Cover Art by @emmaporter.world   Intro and Outro Music by Mike Scully  @Mikescullymusic    Songs Power, Juice, and Strut by Iyla @iyla    TYFSN Merch: https://thank-you-for-saying-no.printify.me/products       TYFSN Submissions: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1DNYrXgfdMaqY32ekxPg5TO0oVX_1p0PR8iFQsuLu5eQ/edit

06-04
29:43

S2E40 - Season Finale - Thank You For Saying NO Highlights, Lessons, and What’s Next

In this special season finale of Thank You for Saying NO, Kenya takes a look back at the incredible stories shared throughout the season. Tune in for a recap of the season’s most memorable moments, lessons in resilience and personal growth, and an exciting sneak peek into what’s to come next season!   Follow @thankyouforsayingno on social media for exclusive content and updates!   Hosted by @miss_kenyaaaaa   Cover art by @emmaporter.world   Music by @mikescullymusic   Submit a Thank You for Saying NO moment/story to be highlighted on the show: https://bit.ly/TYFSNstorysubmission

10-01
11:28

S2E39 - Quitting Her Corporate Job To Pursue Her Passion (And It Worked!)

In this episode Kenya sits down with  Felecia For The Win, a software engineer who made the bold decision to leave her corporate career behind to pursue becoming a content creator. Despite outward success, Felecia felt unfulfilled and depressed and knew she needed a change. She opens up about the pivotal moment when she decided to leave her stable career to pursue content creation, a path that brought her joy and purpose. Join us for an inspiring discussion on finding fulfillment by saying no to societal expectations and yes to personal happiness.   Follow @tthankyouforsayingno on social media for exclusive content and updates!   Hosted by @miss_kenyaaaaa   With Special guest Felecia For The Win @feleciaforthewin   Cover art by @emmaporter.world   Music by @mikescullymusic   Submit a Thank You for Saying NO moment/story to be highlighted on the show: https://bit.ly/TYFSNstorysubmission

09-24
43:10

S2E38 - From Corporate Layoffs to Entrepreneurial Success (Rejection Reflections - Adam Bird)

In this episode Kenya sits down with Adam Bird, a serial entrepreneur with an inspiring story of turning rejection into opportunity. Adam shares how being laid off from a corporate job led him to build a series of successful ventures, including Heroes Media Group, a podcast network and publishing company, a coffee and spirits business, and a custom-made suit company. Adam discusses the importance of embracing the unexpected and the power of saying no to limitations. His story is a testament to how rejection can often be the catalyst for pursuing your true passions.   Follow @thankyouforsayingno on social media for exclusive content and updates!   Hosted by @miss_kenyaaaaa   With special Guest Adam Bird @mradambird   Cover art by @emmaporter.world   Music by @mikescullymusic   Submit a Thank You for Saying NO moment/story to be highlighted on the show: https://bit.ly/TYFSNstorysubmission 

09-17
05:44

S2E37 - How Unexpectedly Attending Community College Led to Alignment (Rejection Reflection - Nichole Eaton)

On this episode of Thank You for Saying No, we’re joined by Nichole Eaton, intuitive therapist, author, and mindset expert, who shares her inspiring journey of starting at a community college instead of a traditional four-year university. Nichole reveals how this unexpected path led to key moments of personal growth, meeting her husband, and finding the life she was truly meant to live. Tune in as we discuss how taking an unconventional route can often lead to the most aligned and fulfilling outcomes.   Rejection Reflections are our shorter TYFSN interviews. They are ten minute or less episodes that are impromptu with people who have an inspiring Thank You For Saying NO moment. That means we record these episodes anywhere and everywhere! We hope they inspire you and help you start your day off on a positive note. Follow @thankyouforsayingno on social media for exclusive content and updates!   Hosted by @miss_kenyaaaaa   With special Guest Nichole Eaton @nicholeeaton.x   Cover art by @emmaporter.world   Music by @mikescullymusic   Submit a Thank You for Saying NO moment/story to be highlighted on the show: https://bit.ly/TYFSNstorysubmission

09-10
04:33

S2E36 - When NO Leads to the Right Relationship and Home (Rejection Reflections - Alex Sanfilippo)

In this episode of Thank You for Saying NO, we explore Alex’s journey finding the right relationship and choosing the perfect house. Both journeys involve moments of uncertainty, and self-discovery. We discuss how the wrong fit—whether it's a partner or a property—can lead to the clarity needed to recognize what truly aligns with your values and desires. Tune in as we share stories and insights that will inspire you to trust the process and embrace the rejections that pave the way to your perfect match and dream home.   Rejection Reflections are our shorter TYFSN interviews. They are ten minute or less episodes that are impromptu with people who have an inspiring Thank You For Saying NO moment. That means we record these episodes anywhere and everywhere! We hope they inspire you and help you start your day off on a positive note.   Follow @thankyouforsayingno on social media for exclusive content and updates!   Hosted by @miss_kenyaaaaa   With special Guest Alex Sanfilippo @ajsanfilippo   Cover art by @emmaporter.world   Music by @mikescullymusic   Submit a Thank You for Saying NO moment/story to be highlighted on the show: https://bit.ly/TYFSNstorysubmission

09-03
07:04

S2E35 - Karmela and Joel Waldman: From Holocaust Survival and Network News to a True Crime Podcast and Book

In this powerful episode of Thank You for Saying No, we're honored to welcome the dynamic mother-son duo, Joel and Karmela Waldman, from the podcast Surviving the Survivor.   Joel, an Emmy Award-winning TV news journalist, and Karmela, a therapist and Holocaust survivor, bring their incredible stories of resilience, love, and perseverance to our conversation.   Join us as we delve into Karmela's harrowing experiences during the Holocaust, exploring how those dark days shaped her view on overcoming adversity and the strength she's carried throughout her life. We also discuss how her experiences influenced Joel, shaping his approach to life’s challenges and his own unexpected turns.   Tune in to hear how this extraordinary duo turned life’s rejections into opportunities and built a podcast that resonates with millions.   Follow @tthankyouforsayingno on social media for exclusive content and updates!   Hosted by @miss_kenyaaaaa   With special Guests Joel and Karmela Waldman @survivingthesurvivor   Cover art by @emmaporter.world   Music by @mikescullymusic   Submit a Thank You for Saying NO moment/story to be highlighted on the show: https://bit.ly/TYFSNstorysubmission

08-27
01:01:04

S2E34 - Rejection Reflections - Adam Lewis Walker (From Olympic Dreams to TEDx Speaker)

In this episode of Thank You for Saying NO we sit down with special guest Adam Lewis Walker. Adam shares his powerful journey from training as a pole vaulter with Olympic dreams to facing a life-changing injury that altered his path. Discover how this pivotal moment led him to redefine his purpose, eventually becoming a TEDx speaker and inspiring others to embrace their own challenges. Adam's story is a testament to resilience, and how sometimes, the doors that close can lead to new, unexpected opportunities. Don't miss this inspiring conversation!   Rejection Reflections are our shorter TYFSN interviews. They are ten minute or less episodes that are impromptu with people who have an inspiring Thank You For Saying NO moment. That means we record these episodes anywhere and everywhere! We hope they inspire you and help you start your day off on a positive note.   Follow @thankyouforsayingno on social media for exclusive content and updates!   Hosted by @miss_kenyaaaaa   With special Guest Adam Lewis Walker @adamlewiswalker   Follow @thankyouforsayingno on social media for exclusive content and updates!   Cover art by @emmaporter.world   Music by @mikescullymusic   Submit a Thank You for Saying NO moment/story to be highlighted on the show: https://bit.ly/TYFSNstorysubmission

08-20
06:11

S2E33 - Blair Kim - Rejection, Dance, and Embracing Her Biracial Identity

In this episode of Thank You For Saying NO, Kenya welcomes Blair Kim, an incredible dancer and creative who has performed with top musicians and appeared in numerous media productions. Blair shares her journey from aspiring dancer to accomplished performer, discussing how early rejections and pivotal decisions shaped her career path. Blair also shares how embracing her identity as both Black and Korean has been a transformative journey for her. She reflects on the challenges and beauty of navigating two cultural worlds, offering insight into how she has used her unique perspective to inspire others. Join Kenya and Blair for a candid conversation on embracing identity, finding meaning in life's unexpected turns, and the power of saying NO in order to stay true to oneself.   Hosted by @miss_kenyaaaaa   With Special guest Blair Kim @blairkimchi   Follow @thankyouforsayingno on social media for exclusive content and updates!    Cover art by @emmaporter.world   Music by @mikescullymusic   Submit a Thank You for Saying NO moment/story to be highlighted on the show: https://bit.ly/TYFSNstorysubmission  

08-13
40:34

S2E32 - Rejection Reflections - Corinne Eckert (Navigating Your True Path)

In this episode, Kenya and Corinne Eckert explore the empowering act of saying "no" to opportunities that don't align with your true passions and calling. Discover how turning down paths that don't resonate with your values and goals can open the door to a more fulfilling and authentic life. The pair share personal insights on how to confidently navigate life's crossroads, trust your instincts, and make decisions that lead you to a life that truly reflects who you are. Join us as we delve into the art of prioritizing your purpose and embracing the journey to your true self.   Rejection Reflections are our shorter TYFSN interviews. They are ten minute or less episodes that are impromptu with people who have an inspiring Thank You For Saying NO moment. That means we record these episodes anywhere and everywhere! We hope they inspire you and help you start your day off on a positive note.   Follow @thankyouforsayingno on social media for exclusive content and updates!   Hosted by Kenya @miss_kenyaaaaa   With special Guest Corinne Eckert @corinne.eckert   Cover art by @emmaporter.world   Music by @mikescullymusic

08-06
05:57

S2E30 - Why You Don't Have to Be Perfect (The Practice of Life and Law)

In this special episode of the TYFSN podcast, we’re breaking new ground by welcoming two fantastic guests: Stef John and Jason Weiss. Stef, a longtime friend from law school, has been a guiding light through some of my toughest moments. Jason, an attorney and author of Shit They Never Taught You in Law School, brings fresh perspectives on learning from mistakes and navigating the gray areas of life and law.   Join us as we explore pivotal NO moments that shaped their journeys, discuss how the three handle mistakes and uncertainties, and share insights on managing personal reactions to setbacks. We’ll also touch on the importance of celebrating wins and reflect on what they wish they’d known when they first started their careers.   Don’t miss this engaging conversation full of wisdom and personal stories that highlight the power of saying NO and embracing life's challenges.   Hosted by @miss_kenyaaaaa     With Special guests Stefan John @stefan.john and Jason Weiss @askjasonweiss     Follow @thankyouforsayingno on social media for exclusive content and updates!     Cover art by @emmaporter.world     Music by @mikescullymusic     Submit a Thank You for Saying NO moment/story to be highlighted on the show: https://bit.ly/TYFSNstorysubmission

07-23
57:13

S2E29 - TYFSN Submission (NO as Motivation)

On today’s episode, Kenya reads an inspiring submission from the Thank You For Saying NO community.   Submit a Thank You for Saying NO moment/story to be highlighted on the show: https://bit.ly/TYFSNstorysubmission   Follow @thankyouforsayingno on social media for exclusive content and updates!   Hosted by @miss_kenyaaaaa   Cover art by @emmaporter.world   Music by @mikescullymusic

07-16
06:18

S2E26 - TYFSN Submission (Finding Forgiveness Through Understanding Will Smith)

On today’s episode, Kenya reads an inspiring submission from the Thank You For Saying NO community.   Submit a Thank You for Saying NO moment/story to be highlighted on the show: https://bit.ly/TYFSNstorysubmission   Follow @thankyouforsayingno on social media for exclusive content and updates!   Hosted by @miss_kenyaaaaa   Cover art by @emmaporter.world   Music by @mikescullymusic

06-25
06:45

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