Cutting The Strings

After two and a half years of this project, It is now coming to an end. In this video, I highlight recent changes to my mindset and share some words of encouragement for those of us out here who are pivoting either to something different or are in a period of rediscovering ourselves. For those of you who have listened and followed my journey, I appreciate you immensely. I hope you'll follow me on...

In this conversation, I explore the complex dynamics of masculinity, masculine privilege, and preferences versus requirements from an academic lens. I am breaking it all down; discussing the definitions of masculinity, the privileges associated with it, and the societal expectations that shape preferences in dating. Also, I will be discussing the distinction between preferences and requirements in...

In this episode of Cutting the Strings, host Ivan Francis Wilbanks shares his personal journey with mental health, discussing his experiences with complex PTSD, bullying, and the impact of childhood trauma. He emphasizes the importance of therapy, self-respect, and setting boundaries while navigating the challenges of mental health. Ivan encourages listeners to seek help and build a supportive com...

In this episode, we explore the challenges that gay men face in dating and socializing, particularly focusing on community expectations, adverse experiences, and the unique language of the gay community. He emphasizes the importance of self-worth and understanding one's value beyond societal standards, while also addressing the complexities of human interactions and the need for personal growt...

In this episode of Cutting the Strings, host Ivan Francis Wilbanks delves into the complex emotion of jealousy, exploring its destructive nature in various relationships, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. He shares personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and open communication to navigate jealousy effectively. The conversation highlights...

In this episode of Cutting the Strings, I delve into the viral debate between Amanda Searles and 20 Black conservatives on Jubilee. He discusses the complexities of Black American political ideologies, the impact of historical education on current perspectives, and the legacy of slavery in modern society. I re-examine the role of media in shaping perceptions of crime and highlight the dangers of m...

In this episode, we celebrate 10 years of my experience of living in Atlanta. I came to the Big Peach on July 31, 2015, to begin my journey in law school and have largely not turned back since. Today, I share personal stories, anecdotes, and tidbits that highlight the lessons learned over the decade. We'll discuss the importance of resilience in the face of change, the value of friendships forged...

In this episode, we get real about the mistakes many couples make that can trip them up. We discuss everything from poor communication habits and taking each other for granted to the struggles that come with being selfish and not growing with your partner. I share my viewpoints as a former family law attorney who has observed these mistakes from the outside looking in as well as someone who has pr...

In this episode, we’re digging into an important topic: how to teach people to treat you right. It’s all about setting boundaries and making sure others know what’s cool and what’s not. By clearly communicating your needs and demonstrating what you expect, you can build healthier relationships that feel good for everyone involved. We’ll share some straightforward tips on how to stand up for yourse...

I am glad to be back after a year and a half with Cutting the Strings. It's been a busy year and a half, but I am glad that I have been able to do a bunch of personal, financial, and spiritual work. I've moved jobs and moved homes, but I am still rooted using words to enlighten! This episode talks about fems. (If you're not in the know: "Fem" is a versatile abbreviation with several meanings, most...

Happy 2024! As we ring in the new year, we must look at the lessons we learned in 2023. In this episode, I am sharing five lessons I have learned in 2023; and how each of these lessons are something we can all use to improve our lives in the New Year.

Accountability has become a word that many people both praise and also dislike. In this episode we talk about how people avoid taking responsibility for their words and actions and the steps that we can take to take ownership of what we do and say.

Originally recorded around Thanksgiving, this episode discusses how to speak your mind, stand your ground, and how doing both can protect your self-worth. Remember, you can always say “No.”

In this episode, we explore monogamy and polyamory. We discuss the good, the bad, the differences, and the similarities between these two relationship styles and types. No matter if you're only looking for that one soulmate or you have love to share, jump in and explore with us in Episode Five!

Welcome everyone to the fourth episode of cutting the strings. During this episode, we explore the concept of legitimacy and acceptance within our social systems, and how it has the potential to impact our mental physical and emotional health.

On Episode 3 of Cutting The Strings where we are talking about body image and the nuanced effect of the black, gay, and fem experience. After our talk, just remember to love the body that loves you. (Show Notes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qfsqCW5cr7DT-smr2jHQMlrF8BH4h3dPkON2bGh08KU/edit)

Welcome to Episode Two of Cutting the Strings. On this episode, we walk through the purpose of this podcast and speak about some of the personal experiences that inform some of advice provided.

The pilot episode of Cutting the Strings, a new podcast talking about communication, introspection, life lessons, and accountability while making progress in personal and professional pursuits.