Black. Girl. Iowa.

In the season one finale of  Black. Girl. Iowa. , host Erika Bailey turns the mic toward Emili, the voice behind the podcast. Together, they reflect on the transformative journey of the first season—highlighting the confidence Emili gained, the power of storytelling, and the meaningful connections built along the way. Emili opens up about her proudest moments, including an emotional interview with...

In this episode of Black. Girl. Iowa. , I’m joined by Dr. Cimone Wright-Hamor — engineer, educator, and powerful advocate for Black girls and women in STEM. From growing up in Cedar Rapids to earning her Ph. D., Cimone shares how early struggles in school, mentorship, and intentional planning shaped her journey and her purpose. We talk about what it’s like to be underestimated in white-dominated s...

In this podcast episode, Deidre DeJear, an entrepreneur and civic leader, reflects on her journey from Mississippi to Oklahoma to Iowa, highlighting her passion for public service and community engagement. As the Democratic nominee for both Iowa Secretary of State and Governor, DeJear advocates for critical issues like quality education and mental health care. She discusses the challenges of runni...

In this podcast episode, Latoya Lewis, the founder and CEO of Mahogany Doula Services, shares her inspiring journey from Illinois to Iowa, where she sought a safer and more stable environment for her family. Initially planning to leave Iowa, she fell in love with its affordable living, tranquility, and educational opportunities for her daughter. Balancing motherhood, Latoya pursued her undergradua...

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Destinee Woodris and Emili explore the significance of self-care, community, and the importance of building supportive relationships. They discuss the creation of Dr. Woodris's podcast, 'Porch Tea with Destinee’ as a platform for storytelling and connection, emphasizing the need for individuals to pursue their passions and embrace their unique identities. The dia...

In this episode of the Black Girl Iowa podcast, host Emili shares her personal healing journey, discussing the challenges of navigating depression, life changes, and the importance of self-care. She reflects on her experiences with insomnia, the significance of art and journaling in her healing process, and the necessity of sleep and routine. Emili emphasizes the importance of overcoming shame and...

In this podcast episode, Betty C. Andrews, the president and CEO of Betty Andrews Media and executive director of Iowa’s African American Festival, shares insights into the impactful history of “I’ll Make Me A World in Iowa,” which has become the state’s largest African American festival since its inception in 1998. Originally a national call to action, the festival has evolved to highlight Africa...

Audrey Kennis, the Human Services and Inclusion Director for the City of West Des Moines, shares her journey from Denver, Colorado to Iowa and her experiences at Clarke University. She discusses the culture shock she experienced in Iowa and the microaggressions she faced as a Black woman. Audrey's story highlights the importance of embracing diversity and inclusion in all aspects of life. The conv...

In this reflective episode, Emili discusses her experiences and accomplishments throughout 2024, a year she describes as challenging yet transformative. She shares her proudest moments, including graduating from grad school, starting a new teaching career, and leaving a toxic relationship. Emili emphasizes the importance of self-celebration, personal growth, and the power of storytelling through h...

In this episode of the Black Girl Iowa podcast, host Emili and guests Dr. Wanakee Carr and Erika Bailey discuss the aftermath of the recent presidential election in the United States. They reflect on their personal feelings about the election results, the significance of Vice President Kamala Harris's campaign, and the impact of demographics on voting patterns.  The conversation also delves into t...

In this conversation, Emili and Clementé Love have a dynamic conversation that focuses on the importance of advocacy and empathy in addressing racial issues on campus and in society. It highlights the need for individuals to care about and support marginalized communities, even if they don't personally know someone from that community.  They highlight the need for black women to have access to cul...

In this episode of the Black. Girl. Iowa. podcast, host Emili shares a personal check-in, discussing her recent life transitions, including a job change, returning to therapy, and completing her graduate program. She emphasizes the importance of mental health and self-care, particularly in light of the challenging social and political climate. Emili also introduces her upcoming reading challenge f...

Dr. Jasmine Ross is a licensed psychologist, and owner of Essence Psychological Health Services in Houston, Texas. In this episode, she shares her experience growing up in the Bronx and the unique aspects of being a New Yorker. She discusses the impact of her annual visits from her cousins in Iowa and how it challenged her to think about life outside of New York.  Dr. Ross also talks about her jou...

In this conversation, Councilwoman Renee Hardman discusses her journey to Iowa and her involvement in the community. She emphasizes the importance of civic engagement and the need for representation in politics. Hardman also shares her passion for serving marginalized communities and highlights the work she does as the CEO of Lutheran Services of Iowa.  Learn More about LSI - www.lsiiowa.org Want...

In this episode of the podcast, Emili discusses the significance of journaling in her life, emphasizing its therapeutic benefits and the importance of self-reflection. She shares personal anecdotes about her journaling journey, the tools she uses, and practical tips for those looking to start journaling. She encourages listeners to find their unique style and make journaling a part of their daily...

In this conversation, Chef Joppa shares her journey of starting her own restaurant, Joppa Experience, in Des Moines, Iowa. She talks about the importance of perfecting her craft and working for herself. Chef Joppa discusses her menu, which includes popular dishes like oxtails and turkey tips. She also shares her vision for her business, including plans for a standalone restaurant in the future and...

In this engaging conversation, Emili, Ryan, and Madison explore the importance of advocating for and protecting Black women, drawing from their personal experiences and cultural commentary. They discuss the challenges faced by Black women in society, the role of media in shaping perceptions, and the responsibility of individuals to stand up against disrespect and injustice.   The conversation high...

Dr. Wanakee Carr, a doctor in obstetrics and gynecology, shares her journey from childhood to becoming a physician. She excelled in academics and had a passion for science from a young age. Despite facing discouragement and roadblocks, she remained motivated and pursued her dream of becoming a doctor. Dr. Carr reflects on the moments when she felt like everything was coming full circle, such as gr...

In this episode, Emili shares her personal story of surviving domestic violence. She recounts the events leading up to the attack, the physical and emotional abuse she endured, and the aftermath of leaving her abusive partner. Emili reflects on the complexities of love, the patterns of abuse, and the struggle to heal and move forward. She emphasizes the importance of sharing these difficult storie...

Emili and Tatum explore the differences and similarities between the millennial and Gen Z generations. They discuss the impact of technology on their upbringing, including the evolution of social media and online dating. They also touch on the challenges faced by millennials, such as the lack of progress in their careers and the disappointment in political leadership. The conversation highlights t...

In this conversation, Emili reflects on the Democratic National Convention and the powerful stories shared during the event, particularly those related to abortion and reproductive rights and gun violence. She also discusses the importance of patriotism and the need for active engagement in the democratic process. Emili concludes by expressing her excitement for the upcoming elections and encourag...

Shanice Whitney, a teacher living in Doha, Qatar, shares her experiences growing up in Kansas City, Missouri, and attending Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa. She discusses the challenges of being a black student in predominantly white schools and the lack of representation in the teaching profession. Shanice emphasizes the importance of finding her own path and living a life that brings her peac...

Brandi Miller is the President of Black Women for Healthy Living. This is a nonprofit organization in Des Moines that addresses health disparities among Black women. Their mission is to advocate, empower, and provide resources for Black women's holistic health. The organization was inspired by the founder's experience with cycling and the need for safe spaces for Black women. They aim to p...

In this week’s episode, Emili chat with April Finley, a Tuskegee University graduate living and working in Iowa. April shares her college experience at an HBCU and the challenges of finding community while working at a predominantly white institution (PWI). She also discusses her move to Iowa with her husband, who is pursuing a PhD in organic chemistry, the similarities she sees between the Black...

In this episode, Emili interviews McKenzie Kerry, Miss Iowa-USA 2024, who will be representing Iowa at the Miss USA Pageant. They discuss McKenzie's journey into pageantry, her decision to move to Iowa, and her passion for leadership development and youth empowerment. McKenzie shares her excitement about representing Iowa on a national stage and the activities leading up to the pageant. Listen...