Black. Girl. Iowa.

Dr. Keyah Levy, the inaugural vice president for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Simpson College, shares her experiences growing up in Waterloo, Iowa, and her involvement in the community. She discusses the importance of representation and being a positive role model for young Black girls. Dr. Levy also talks about her experience as a Black student at the University of Iowa, highlighting the se...

In this episode, Emili discusses two topics: divorce and dating. She shares her journey of filing for divorce, the challenges she faced, and the lessons she learned. Then, delves into the world of dating, highlighting the issues of fetishization, poor communication, and toxic masculinity. Emili emphasizes the importance of self-love, journaling, and seeking support from friends and family while na...

In this conversation, Emili and Erika discuss their personal experiences growing up in Iowa and how it has shaped their relationship with money.  Erika shares her journey from a financially challenging childhood to becoming a project manager in the finance industry. She also emphasize the importance of understanding one's relationship with money and living within one's means. The conversation prov...

In this week’s episode, Emili chats with the Trumbo sisters, Dawniece and Dionne, and their shared experience growing up in Des Moines, Iowa. They discuss the racism they faced in their neighborhood and how their strong sense of self-pride helped them navigate those challenges. The sisters also talk about their academic excellence and the motivation they found in each other.  They also discuss the...

BONUS EPISODE!!! Abigaille Batu-Tiako, the NEW Miss Iowa, returns to the show to discuss her win and what she has been doing since being crowned. The conversation highlights the excitement and joy surrounding her historic win as a Black woman representing Iowa in the Miss America pageant. The episode ends with a discussion about the importance of embracing one's authentic self and taking up sp...

In this conversation, Emili chats with Breanne Ward, a licensed mental health counselor and founder of ForWard Consulting LLC. They discuss Breanne's journey with mental health and her work in the field. They also touch on the unique experiences of being a Black woman in Iowa and the impact of the strong Black woman stereotype.  In this conversation, Breanne discusses the detrimental effects o...

GloRose, an author based in Des Moines, Iowa, specializes in writing books for children and teens that encourage self-expression. Her books, which include colorful and intricate activity books, address topics like expressing emotions and dealing with challenges. and provide a source of understanding, connection, and relief for children. She emphasizes the importance of journaling as a tool for com...

In this conversation, Emili interviews her father, Larry Johnson, about his life and experiences as a Black man and father. They discuss his journey from South Carolina to Iowa, his college experience, and his career in education. They also talk about the importance of raising Black girls and the challenges they face. Larry shares his pride in his daughters and grandsons and offers advice to other...

Abigaille Batu-Tiako, a senior at William Penn University, shares her journey from Plattsburgh, New York to Iowa, where she competes in track and field. She discusses the challenges of being a black student in a predominantly white state and the importance of finding a supportive community. Abigail also talks about her involvement in beauty pageants, including winning the title of Miss Oskaloosa ,...

Kourtney Perry, CEO of Ladie Lex Scented Candles and Privacy, LLC, shares her journey as an entrepreneur. She talks about her experience growing up in Des Moines and the challenges she faced as a young mother. She discusses her various jobs, how she eventually started her own business, and she explains the inspiration behind Ladie Lex Candles and the unique products she offers. Overall, Kourtney e...

In the first episode of the Black. Girl. Iowa. Podcast, Emili shares her journey of creating the podcast and the importance of creating a safe space for Black women in Iowa. She discusses her research on podcasting, her motivation for starting the podcast, and her experiences growing up as a Black girl in Iowa and the challenges of living in a predominantly white state. She also talks about her pe...

Introducing the Black. Girl. Iowa. Podcast