Hey y’all, welcome to the Brown Heart Podcast! This week, we’re diving into a powerful conversation about accountability and purpose as we prepare for 2025. Inspired by the movie Wicked, we’re unpacking themes of power, privilege, and resilience—and how they show up in our lives, especially during times of reflection and transition.

In this episode, we explore:

• The lessons from Wicked: How movies like this normalize oppression while highlighting the brilliance of underrepresented voices, and what that means for us in reclaiming our purpose.

• Accountability as liberation: Shifting from meeting external expectations to aligning with your values and purpose.

• The power of community: Introducing the Brown Heart Facebook Community and how we’ll use it to support each other’s growth and purpose.

• A sneak peek at the One Brave Thing a Week Challenge: A January initiative to help you take intentional, courageous steps toward your goals.

“Our gifts are not anchored to one person, place, or situation—they are tied to our purpose.” As we reflect on 2024 and look ahead, let’s reclaim our narrative and build systems that honor our growth and vision.

• Tea of the Week: A warm cup of Moroccan Mint Tea from Rooted Vines—it’s grounding and just what I needed to start my mornings this week. We met this beautiful couple at an outdoor market some time ago and again last week.

• Watch of the Week: Wicked has me reflecting deeply on the complexities of purpose and power. Highly recommend it if you're ready to think critically and see beyond the story!

• Moment of the Week: Our annual Cocoa and Karaoke family night putting up the tree and enjoying the family.

Join the Brown Heart Facebook Community for more reflections and accountability as we prepare for 2025. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast, and let’s continue this journey together with purpose and courage.

Let me know what resonated most for you from today’s episode by tagging me on Instagram (@brownheartwellness). Until next week, take care, prioritize your peace, and let’s prepare for what’s ahead together.

Hey y’all! Welcome back to the Brown Heart Podcast. This week, we’re talking about the power of reflection and resetting as we prepare to close out 2024. It’s a busy season, and if you’re feeling the pressure to wrap everything up perfectly, trust me—you’re not alone. But here’s the truth: the way we end the year sets the tone for how we step into the next one.

Last year, I made the mistake of pressing the gas through November and December, thinking I could do it all. By January, I was completely burned out. This year, I’m doing things differently—with more intention, reflection, and grace—and I want to share how you can, too.

• Why resetting matters: The importance of pausing, reflecting, and creating space for renewal.

• Practical ways to reset: From setting a theme or word for 2025 to detaching from outcomes we can’t control, we’ll discuss how to close the year with clarity.

• A reflective practice: Four key questions to guide your reflections as you navigate the transition from 2024 into 2025.

• A mindful moment: A guided exercise to help you release what’s not serving you and carry gratitude into the new year.

• Self-Care Item of the Week: I pulled my juicer back out to reset from all of the Thanksgiving goodies! This juicer has been by far one of my favorite juicers!

• Word of the Year Inspiration: Reflecting on my 2024 word, rhythm, has been a reminder to stay aligned with my internal flow.

• Gift Items for Your Favorite Yogi: I decided to create a collage of gift ideas for your favorite yogi! Check it out!

  
  

What’s your word or theme for 2025? I’d love to hear your reflections on this week’s episode. Share your thoughts with me over on Instagram (@brownheartwellness) or LinkedIn, and don’t forget to tag me if you share this episode with your friends!

Make sure you’re subscribed to the Brown Heart Podcast so you don’t miss next week’s episode, where we’ll dive into building sustainable accountability practices for the new year. Let’s close out 2024 with purpose, intention, and a whole lot of grace.

Wishing you peace, clarity, and renewal,

Samantha

Hey y’all! Welcome back to the Brown Heart Podcast. Today, we’re diving into a topic that feels especially important this time of year—self-care during uncertain times. As we near the end of 2024, many of us are holding a mix of emotions: joy from the holidays, and for some, the weight of layoffs, setbacks, or unexpected transitions. It’s not easy to hold both joy and hurt at the same time, but it’s possible—and necessary.

In this episode, we’ll explore:

• How to honor the full range of emotions—joy, disappointment, hope, and frustration—all at once.

• The truth that our purpose isn’t tied to one job, person, or moment but rooted in who we are.

• Practical self-care strategies that go beyond bubble baths, focusing on what you truly need in uncertain times.

"Our gifts are not anchored to one place, person, or situation, but to our purpose." Let this truth remind you that no matter what’s happening around you, your worth and purpose remain constant. You are more than any one moment.

• Self-Care Item of the Week: I bought a mini patio heater so that I can sit outside in the cold and I have been in pure bliss!

• Quote of the Week: "Our gifts are not anchored to one place, person, or situation, but to our purpose."

• Glasses of the Week: Cute opal, geometric, gold rimmed frames great for meetings and brunch.

We’re still doing our 10-day gratitude challenge, so join the movement by sharing what you’re grateful for using #BrownHeartChallenge. If this episode resonated with you, let me know! Share it with a friend or tag me on Instagram (@brownheartwellness). And don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss next week’s episode on year-end reflections and self-care for stepping into 2025 with clarity and purpose.

Until then, take care of yourself, honor your emotions, and know that you’re worthy just as you are. Wishing you peace and strength this season!

What to Expect:
This week, we’re tackling holiday stress with tips on setting boundaries, managing family dynamics, and carving out moments of peace. Let’s make this season joyful and calm—on your terms.

A Thought to Carry Into the Season:
"Boundaries create space for peace and connection, not conflict. You have the right to prioritize your well-being."

My Favorite Things This Week:

• Self-Care Moment: Journaling by candlelight—it’s been a simple but grounding ritual.
• Show of the Week: Abbott Elementary—a hilarious reminder to find joy in small moments.
• Tea of the Week: Puff & Sip blend from Sip Teashop—it’s a new discovery, and I’m obsessed!
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Let’s Keep the Conversation Going:
How are you protecting your peace this holiday season? Share with me on Instagram @brownheartwellness. Don’t forget to subscribe for next week’s episode on year-end reflection and self-care!

Wishing you moments of calm and joy!

Hey y’all, welcome back to the Brown Heart Podcast! We’re right in the thick of year-end planning season, and I know it can bring a mix of excitement and pressure. If you’re feeling that familiar pull of everything needs to be perfect, trust me, you’re not alone. Today’s episode is all about shifting away from that stress-filled mindset and embracing a different approach.

Instead of letting the pressure get to us, we’re diving into how to lead with purpose, compassion, and flexibility. I’m sharing what’s helped me get through this time of year without losing my sanity—like setting clear boundaries (because who else feels like their calendar is a chaotic mess?), detaching from outcomes we can’t control, and reconnecting with our big ‘why’. Taking time to reflect on your purpose can make this whole process feel lighter and more focused.

• Letting Go of Perfection: Spoiler alert—perfection is overrated. We’re leaving it behind to focus on progress, not perfection.

• Intentional Delegation: You can’t do it all, and that’s okay. Let’s talk about empowering your team and giving them space to shine.

• Space for Reflection: Creating moments for collective reflection can provide insights that shape intentional, aligned goals for 2025.

• Detaching from Uncontrollable Outcomes: It’s time to release the stress of things outside our control and focus on where we can make real impact.

I’ll also share a reflective question I ask myself every year: What was the hope and purpose that brought me into this role? It’s a powerful way to reconnect with what truly matters as we close out the year.

To wrap things up, we’re taking a mindful moment together. Take a deep breath with me and let go of any tension tied to the things you can’t control. Let’s create space for clarity and step into the new year feeling grounded and connected to our purpose.

This past week was a rollercoaster (post-election stress anyone?), so here are a few things that brought me a little joy:

• Self-Care Item of the Week: My new patio water fountain. There’s something so calming about listening to the water flow while I sit outside.
• Show of the Week: Abbott Elementary had me laughing all week. It’s the perfect comfort show for my nervous system.
• Tea of the Week: I tried the Puff & Sip blend from the Sip Teashop (found them on TikTok!). Even though I’m not puffing it, the flavor was so soothing and just what I needed.

Let’s keep this conversation going over on Instagram (@brownheartwellness). Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss next week’s episode where we’ll be tackling holiday stress and setting boundaries to protect our peace. Remember, you have the right to prioritize your well-being, and I’m here cheering you on.

See you next week, and if you loved today’s chat, share it with a friend who could use a little encouragement as they plan for the new year!

In this Election Day episode, Samantha explores the power of using your voice, from voting to setting boundaries with family and colleagues. Whether in tough conversations or protecting your peace, find out how to show up with courage, especially when it’s uncomfortable.

Brown Heart Affirmation: "Today, I honor the power of my voice. I make choices that align with my values, knowing that my voice holds power, even in the smallest actions."

Key Topics:

• Embracing Your Voice on Election Day – A reminder to vote and how expressing yourself shapes both life and community.

• Managing Workplace Tensions – Ways to stay grounded when values clash.

• Navigating Family Dynamics – Balancing self-respect with familial love, especially in tense moments.

Actionable Tips:

1. Set Boundaries for Political Discussions – Know which topics are worth engaging in.

2. Prepare for Tough Conversations – Outline your main points to stay focused.

3. Breathe and Pause – Use the space between reaction and response to center yourself.

4. Lean on Safe Spaces – Seek out supportive environments to build resilience.

Brown Heart Mindful Moment: Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and think of a moment where you stayed silent. Visualize speaking up confidently and let your voice grow stronger in your mind.

Next Episode: Join us next week to explore how to balance year-end planning with self-care as we prepare for 2025. Subscribe and share if today’s episode resonates—let’s keep building courage, together.

✨ Weekly Favorites Round-Up! ✨
I thought it’d be fun to start sharing some of the things that stood out for me each week! Here’s what made the list:

👓 Most Complimented: My go-to glasses—these Azalea Tortoiseshell frames from Zenni! Always a conversation starter!
📺 Show of the Week: The Martha Stewart Documentary on Netflix. It’s so inspiring to see the journey of a female mogul—it had me captivated!
🍵 Most Drank Tea: Magic Hour Teas are still my favorite, but I’d love to support a Black-owned tea brand. Any recommendations?

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the Brown Heart Podcast!

In this episode of the Brown Heart Podcast, Samantha Edu explores the journey of reclaiming your voice, particularly as a Black woman in corporate spaces. She shares a personal journal entry that marked a turning point in her journey and dives into the challenges of self-censorship, the weight of systemic pressures, and how finding your voice is key to personal and professional growth.

Brown Heart Affirmation:
"Today, I honor my voice. I recognize the systems that have silenced it and the courage it takes to reclaim it. I speak with clarity, confidence, and compassion, knowing that my voice is my power."

Key Takeaways:

• Self-censorship often stems from internalized pressures within systems of oppression.
• Reclaiming your voice is a process that starts with small, intentional steps.
• Using your voice isn't just about being heard in corporate settings—it's about leading yourself in all aspects of life.

Actionable Steps:

• Write it Down: Journal about something you’ve been afraid to say.
• Find Brave Spaces: Surround yourself with people and environments where you feel safe to express your voice.
• Take Small Steps: Practice using your voice in small, everyday moments.

Listen Now:
Take a moment to connect with your voice and discover how you can start using it more boldly, both at work and in your personal life. Tune in now to learn how to take the first steps toward reclaiming your authentic expression.

Call to Action:
Challenge yourself this week: find one moment to speak up and reclaim your voice. If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with a friend and subscribe for more empowering episodes.

If you would like more information on The GreatBIG Life Academy check out her website and the new Youtube channel!

Hey y’all! This week’s episode is super special because it’s my birthday week 🎉 and we’re talking all about self-celebration. I’m sharing the story of my very first solo trip to Toronto at 39, and how it completely shifted the way I view celebrating myself. Instead of waiting for validation from the world, I learned to claim my own joy and take pride in my journey—big wins and small. In this episode, we’ll dive into how celebrating yourself can fuel your self-love, confidence, and leadership, and why it's so important to honor every part of your journey. Brown Heart Affirmation: "Today, I celebrate myself. I honor my growth, the journey, and the joy I create in my life. I am worthy of every win." Key Takeaways: • Self-celebration is one of the most powerful ways to practice self-love. It builds confidence and mental clarity, helping you recognize your worth. • My solo trip to Toronto was a game-changer for me. It taught me to stop waiting for others to validate my journey and instead celebrate myself—both personally and in leadership. • When we celebrate others, especially as leaders, we create spaces where people feel seen, valued, and brave enough to show up as their true selves. Actionable Tips: • Positive Affirmations: Start your day with affirmations like, “I am worthy of every win,” or “I honor my journey.” These little mantras remind you to celebrate even the smallest victories. • Set the Standard for Self-Celebration: It might feel strange at first, but celebrating yourself teaches others how you want to be honored. You’re setting the tone for how you deserve to be treated. • Pause and Acknowledge Wins: Anytime you accomplish something, no matter how small, take a moment to pause, breathe, and say, “I’m proud of you.” It shifts your mindset and reminds you that your efforts matter. Brown Heart Moment (Mindful Moment): Let’s take a moment to reflect on something you accomplished this week. It could be anything—a new habit you started, an act of kindness, or just getting through a tough day. Breathe into that moment and allow yourself to feel proud. You did that. You are worthy of that joy. Call to Action: This week, I challenge you to celebrate at least one win—big or small. Take a pause, reflect, and say “I’m proud of you.” It’s in these small moments of self-love that we start to see our true worth. 💖 If today’s episode spoke to you, please subscribe, share it with someone who could use a little more joy in their life, and celebrate yourself today! 🎉 📩 Want more tips and inspiration? Subscribe to my Substack:https://substack.com/brownheartwellness Grab your tea and listen in! Check out https://magichour.sjv.io/3e63GA for some of my favorite teas!