The Melanin Wellness Podcast: Mental Health, Nervous System Care & Healing for Black Women

In this episode of the Melanin Wellness Podcast, host Cori emphasizes the importance of Men's Health Month, focusing on the mental and emotional well-being of men, particularly Black men. The conversation highlights the harmful effects of societal expectations on masculinity, the need for open discussions about mental health, and the importance of creating safe spaces for men to express their vuln...

In this episode of the Melanin Wellness Podcast, host Cori and guest Dr. Lynise Green discuss the challenges faced by Black women, particularly the pressures of the Superwoman Syndrome. They explore the importance of setting boundaries, practicing gratitude, and recognizing one's worth beyond societal expectations. Dr. Green emphasizes the need for self-care, the impact of emotional and spiritual...

In this episode of the Melanin Wellness Podcast, host Cori discusses the often misunderstood menstrual cycle, emphasizing that it should not be viewed as an enemy. Instead, she encourages listeners to see their cycles as a form of feedback from their bodies. The episode outlines practical lifestyle changes, nutritional advice, and herbal remedies that can help alleviate common menstrual symptoms....

In this episode, Cori discusses the importance of understanding the menstrual cycle and how it relates to nutrition and self-care. The conversation covers the different phases of the cycle, including the luteal and ovulatory phases, and offers practical tips for syncing activities with these phases. Cori emphasizes the need for women to honor their bodies and energy levels, encouraging listeners t...

In part three of my conversation with Dr. Janice Johnson Dias, we explore motherhood, wellness, and legacy—and what it means for Black women to make wellness a non-negotiable. From building sustainable habits to healing generational cycles, this episode is about creating a wellness lifestyle that lasts. Perfect for Black women 35–59 looking for real conversations on self-care, balance, and thrivin...

In part 2 of this powerful series on The Melanin Wellness Podcast, we’re tackling an issue that impacts millions of Black women—period inequity. Join me and Dr. Dias as we unpack the End Period Poverty Movement, explore the connection between menstrual health, wellness, and access, and dive into how policy and advocacy are shaping the future of period equity for women of color. We break down why B...

In this powerful first part of a three-part series, host Cori sits down with Dr. Janice Johnson Dias to discuss her journey into activism, raising her accomplished daughter Marley, and founding the Grassroots Community Foundation. Dr. Diaz shares insights on the importance of sleep, nutrition, and wellness in building a culture that prioritizes health for Black women and girls. The episode also to...

In this episode of The Melanin Wellness Podcast, Cori explores what it means to decolonize wellness and embrace the power of traditional remedies passed down through generations. From herbal teas to cultural food practices, these ancestral methods still have real impact on health, balance, and healing. Chapters: 00:00 Decolonizing Wellness: A Journey Home 10:39 Reclaiming Ancestral Knowledge 12:59...

 In this episode, we delve into the crucial topic of raising confident Black girls in today's challenging world. We explore the importance of representation, nurturing self-worth, and teaching emotional intelligence. Join us as we discuss practical ways to empower young Black queens to shine boldly and authentically. Key Points of this Epiosde: The significance of representation and visibility for...

In the season six premiere of the Melanin Wellness Podcast, the host reflects on personal growth during the summer hiatus, discussing the complexities of being a multidimensional person. She emphasizes the importance of embracing all aspects of one's identity, setting boundaries, prioritizing rest, and celebrating individuality. The episode encourages listeners to accept their layers as strengths...

Whew, we made it! In this powerful Season 5 finale of The Melanin Wellness Podcast, we're celebrating every win, every lesson, and every moment that made this season unforgettable. From holistic health to ancestral healing, we dug deep into natural remedies, nutrition, fitness, and mental wellness specifically for Black families. This episode is your behind-the-scenes pass as I reflect on the topi...

In this episode of The Melanin Wellness Podcast, we dive deep into the critical issue of financial literacy and its profound impact on the Black community, particularly for Black women. Financial wellness is a vital part of overall well-being, but many in our community still face barriers to achieving economic stability and wealth. Join me, Cori Dunn, as we explore why financial literacy is essent...

April is Autism Awareness Month, and in this special episode, we’re diving deep into the unique challenges and experiences of navigating Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) within the Black community. Autism awareness is essential for fostering understanding and support, but how does it differ when seen through the lens of Black families? Join me as we discuss what is autism, what are five key symptoms...

In this episode of The Melanin Wellness Podcast, we dive deep into a topic that resonates with so many—sleep struggles after trauma. For many Black women healing from sexual trauma, restful sleep can feel impossible. Whether it's the racing thoughts, lingering anxiety, or a body that just won’t relax, reclaiming your sleep can be a crucial step toward healing. Join me, Cori Dunn, as I share my per...

In this powerful episode of The Melanin Wellness Podcast, we’re diving deep into healing, advocacy, and breaking the silence around sexual trauma. Join host Cori as she sits down with Leah M. Forney, a fierce advocate for survivors, to discuss the complexities of healing from sexual trauma, rebuilding intimacy, and creating systemic change for Black women. Leah shares her journey of survival and h...

How do you rebuild trust, reclaim intimacy, and truly thrive after experiencing sexual trauma? In this powerful episode of The Melanin Wellness Podcast, I sit down with Karimah Cornelius-Stith, an expert in trauma recovery, to dive deep into the healing process. We explore the emotional, physical, and mental barriers that survivors face and offer actionable steps for restoring confidence, self-lov...

Celebrate National Women’s History Month with The Melanin Wellness Podcast! In this episode, we honor pioneering Black women in medicine who broke barriers and transformed healthcare. From Rebecca Lee Crumpler, the first Black woman doctor in the U.S., to Jane Cook Wright, a trailblazer in cancer treatment, we explore their lasting impact. Learn about Mary Eliza Mahoney’s contributions to nursing,...

Feeling drained? Your diet might be the culprit! In this episode of the Wellness and Vitality Series, we break down the best foods to fuel your body and the sneaky culprits zapping your energy. Learn how to eat for sustained vitality, avoid energy crashes, and make simple, powerful changes to your diet. Tune in for practical tips to keep you feeling your best all day long! You'll learn: 4 energy b...

Are you tired of conventional pain relief methods that don’t address the root cause of your stress and discomfort? In this episode of The Melanin Wellness Podcast, my guest Nijedka Olautunde brings her expertise and explores with us  the power of reflexology and the connection between stress and pain in Black wellness. Learn how stress, anxiety, and past trauma can manifest as physical pain—and ho...

Season 5 Episode 30 -Our Hair, Our Crowns The Hidden Dangers in Synthetic Braiding Hair – What You Need to Know In this episode of The Melanin Wellness Podcast, host Cori is diving into shocking recent reports about the hidden dangers of synthetic braiding hair.   Here is what you will learn about the use of synthetic braiding hair, the risks and how to protect your health when using synthetic bra...

Join me for the Medicine in Black: Wrap-Up Episode as we reflect on this powerful 28-day journey exploring ancestral healing, Black wellness, and holistic empowerment. This series has uncovered the deep roots of Black health traditions—herbal medicine, rootwork, spiritual wellness, movement, and the power of food as medicine. We’ve honored the resilience of our ancestors and reclaimed practices es...

Soul food is more than just comfort food—it’s history on a plate. In this episode of The Melanin Wellness Podcast, host Cori dives deep into the powerful connection between slavery, Black history, and soul food, revealing how our ancestors created a cuisine rooted in resilience, culture, and survival. From the West African origins of ingredients like okra, rice, and black-eyed peas to the harsh re...

The history of modern reproductive medicine is deeply rooted in the exploitation of Black women during slavery. In this powerful episode of The Melanin Wellness Podcast, host Cori uncovers the dark history of how enslaved Black women were subjected to medical experiments that shaped gynecology, birth control, and reproductive healthcare as we know it today. We dive into the legacy of J. Marion Sim...

Chamomile is a simple yet powerful herb that’s been a staple in ancestral healing for centuries. From Black Southern folk medicine to modern herbalism, it has stood the test of time as a remedy for pain, anxiety, digestion, and skin health. So, if you haven’t already, go grab yourself some chamomile tea, oil, or dried flowers and start exploring its many benefits. Your ancestors knew the power of...

Rhubarb—just hearing the word brings back memories for some and questions for others. Is it a powerful healing herb or just an old-school ingredient that traumatized generations of kids? In this episode, we dive deep into rhubarb’s medicinal history in Black herbalism and traditional remedies used in the Black community. While modern science confirms rhubarb’s laxative, anti-inflammatory, and astr...