Raquila-D'Nai Smith - Podcast Details

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Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 7: Episode 7-Mommy Couch After Dark ConclusionHow we doing good people? Join me on the couch as I wrap the After Dark series started at the top of the year and share some of where life has led these first few months of 2025. It's funny, the 7th episode in the 7th being this one, 7 is the number of completion. So as we conclude today and prepare for episode 8 (the number of new beginnings) I look forward to having you join me on the couch!2025-04-3017 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsBRIEF INTERMISSIONHow we doin good people?! It has been a whirlwind of sickness, recovery and new germs rotating through our home for about three weeks. I've been in mom mode trying to recover while also being a professional and attempting some semblance of social life. That said, the next episodes are coming. We have a couple more Mommy Couch Confession After Dark couch chats before we return to regularly scheduled programming but I wanted to assure you, they are coming. Next up is a two-part interview discussion intimacy post divorce. I can't wait to share it with you, j...2025-02-1102 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 7:Episode #6- The Importance of ConsentHow we doing good people?TRIGGER WARNING: Before you join me for this episode, I need you to know there are mentions of sexual assault, rape and molestation. If any of those topics are tender, sensitive or triggering DO NOT listen to this episode.Should you choose to join me, the conversation around consent as it relates to sex is where we kick off. From defining consent to the ramifications of non-consensual intercourse and a few stops in between, on this episode, we touch on the hard truths of sex that are the foundation for...2025-01-2424 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 7:Episode #5-Why Is Talking about Sex Taboo?How we doin' good people? This episode touches on why having conversations around sex are healthy and necessary. Before we jump into the deeper sides of intercourse and intimacy, addressing the why seemed like the perfect start. Do you struggle to talk about intimacy and sex? Hopefully, this helps open the path to communication for you.2025-01-0926 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 7: Episode 4-New Year PreviewHow we doing good people? Happy last Monday of 2024, we are mere days away from a new year and the introduction of the halfway mark through this decade! Can you believe it? I can't wrap my mind around how fast time is moving. This time period between the holidays and new year tends to be one of reflection and for me some old goals rose to the surface. Join me on the couch as I preview how the reemergence of who I thought I'd be as a professional almost 20 years ago is making an appearance in real-time. Today's episode...2024-12-3107 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 7: Episode 3- Black Men, Thank YouHow we doing good people? On this episode, I wanted to give flowers and love to the amazing Black men in my life. There is no world without men and my village is full of amazing, melanated men who deserve to be recognized. Before this year ended, I wanted to make space to honor the menfolk who add as much to my life as the phenomenal women I'm surrounded by. 2024-12-2326 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 7:Episode 2- Begin to ReleaseHow we doing good people? Sometimes starting over isn't the hard part, the struggle is accepting that you had to start over and finding your footing as you do. In this quick solo episode I explore why even after a hard time starting (or restarting) I stay committed to what I'm being called to. That commitment may look different for us all but in this precious journey we call life, the alternative to walk away takes more effort than saying yes to the pull in your heart. 2024-12-1615 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsBack Like We Never LeftHow we doing good people?! After two years away to live (and survive) life, we're back on the couch. It's also our anniversary, FOUR WHOLE YEARS, since the very first episode went live and a whole year since the last episode. We've laughed, cried and sat in the truth and I know I'm better for it. Time has passed but this space remains and I hope you'll join me here as I catch you all up and we dive into the present. This is our 7th season, the number of completion and while we're no where near the end...2024-10-1215 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 6:Episode #10-Sudden ShiftsHey Y'all!Driving a standard transmission vehicle taught me the delicate balance of clutching, breaking and accelerating. Sometimes life comes at us so fast that trying to shift too soon puts at risk for causing distress just like in a car. Join me on the couch as I share with you how I've navigated through a shock so real and news so consecutively overwhelming I thought it was the end of me but how God used that to get my attention and shift my perspective from what was happening to Him.2023-09-2818 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 6:Episode #9-When Life Happens All At OnceHey Y'all!Have you ever felt like life was coming at you all at once? That was me recently and it was A LOT! Join me on the couch as I share how I processed grief, death, anger, and a myriad of other emotions that came along with adulthood, parenthood and life. My hope is that my truth will help encourage you through yours because we aren't alone in this world, no matter how much it may feel like it at times. There's always light in the darkness!2023-09-2115 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 6:Episode #8-Sharing Our StoriesHey Y'all!We've all had seasons or life experiences that we've wanted to share to encourage or help guide others. But there are also some things we hold tight and keep close. How do we know the difference between what to keep and what to share? Have you ever felt like sharing your truth would hurt someone else? Or maybe, your truth isn't something you want critiqued or comments about. If you can relate to any of those, join me on the couch where I share how I am navigating through sharing my own story. 2023-09-0516 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 6:Episode #7-Accepting The GoodHey Y'all!Have you ever found yourself rationalizing why good things happen to you or being afraid that accepting something good feels more like a trick than a treat? Well, join me on the couch today for this chat. Goodness exists but choosing to allow it in our lives or choosing to receive it (especially when we give it freely) can prove to be difficult until we get out of our own way.2023-09-0116 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 6:Episode #6-Choosing JoyHey Y'all! The summer heatwave is still in full effect but with school back in session, the freedom and fun of summer has come to an end. Having found transitions as a normal part of life these past almost two years, leaning in and choosing joy almost felt like a privilege one earns as opposed to a beautiful part of life. Ever been there? Well, join me on the couch and lets catch up and talk about it!2023-08-2309 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 6:Episode #5- Shifting of Seasons in LifeHey Y'all!I can't believe we are almost halfway through May. It's graduation season, summer weather in the South is creeping in and like the transition of nature's seasons, I've had a few myself. Join me as I share a peek into where I've been and how I've moved (and still am) moving through it. Lots of vulnerability and truth here but I hope mine is an encouragement to you. Forging ahead can be hard but when we look at the alternatives, it's the best option every time!2023-05-0924 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 6:Episode #4- Recognizing Our NeedsHey Y'all!Join me on the couch today for an intimate conversation about deciphering your needs and how fulfilling them can be tricky. This episode we touch on intimacy, intercourse and learning how to exist even with the desire unfulfilled. I hope that we all get to a place of vulnerability about our needs and have safe connections that allow us to receive all that we desire.2023-02-2227 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 6:Episode #3-Trusting The Truth & Timing Of TransitionsHey Y'all!It's hard to believe that we are already at the last Monday of January. Where has the time gone? I can say, the past few years seem to all meld together but one common thread has been transition. Whether its working from home because of a pandemic, reintegrating into a "new normal" post quarantine or working diligently to not return to the previous way of life at neck break speed- one thing is for sure- the need to transition is EVERYWHERE! Sometimes the changes come and we move with them, easily and willingly. But what happens...2023-01-3018 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 6: Episode #2-Thoughts From A Real CouchHey Y'all!This weeks episode found me in the midst of regrouping after work as I satiated myself with cookies and my favorite blanket. It's amazing what happens in our minds when we still our bodies and sort through the thoughts and experiences we have. Join me for.a quick chat as I share some of the recent experiences and epiphanies I have had in this new year.2023-01-1311 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 6: Love, Loss & LessonsHey Y'all!As we start the new year, I didn't want to take a full stroll down memory lane but I share my heart with how my view and vision in this new year has been influenced by last year. Still sitting with the awe that we are fresh into the first Monday of this year and I am beyond grateful for being able to share it with you. Here's to a new year of conversations on the couch...we've got this ya'll!2023-01-0224 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 5:Episode #13-The Responsibility of Creating Safe SpacesHey Y'all!Fall is upon us and crisp mornings are more common the past few days. As I snuggle on my couch warm and comfortable, I slow my breathing to refocus. In this season as a parent, friend and educator I recognize the responsibility of the safe spaces I've created. When people feel comfortable enough to be vulnerable and transparent, it is an honor and privilege. But it also requires us to be present within ourselves so that we don't over-extend ourselves to be available. Join me on the couch for this early morning chat!2022-10-0421 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 5:Episode #12- Forgiving Self FirstHey Y'all!Welcome back to the couch. Sometimes in life we all make mistakes. Shocking right!? What happens in your mind when you do? I struggle with beating myself up with the shoulda, coulda, wouldas worse than Mike Tyson in a title match. And while I can easily give grace for human error to others, I judge myself in a way that leans towards perfectionism. Join me as I share the journey I'm on to forgive myself sooner and allow grace to remove the burden of self-condemnation.2022-09-1211 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 5:Episode #11-Being Present In This PlaceHey Y'all!We all have moments where we find it difficult to be or stay present. Join me on the couch where I share how looking forward to the future became my coping mechanism of choice and how being present not only takes practice but brings about a different level of appreciation for life. The places we find ourselves in at any given moment are temporary, the feelings can be fleeting but the waves of truth can only crash and subside when we sit in those moments. Looking forward to sharing the time in THIS PLACE of my...2022-09-0514 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 5:Episode #10- From Tired to TruthHey Y'all!Today on the couch, I share a message posted to IG that grabbed my attention and my heart. The truth is, so often I find myself doing what's best or most expected by others as opposed to walking in my own truth. That burden is heavy and the outcome comes with a tired feeling that doesn't go away with naps or lazy days on the couch. It's a tired that has made me question living. A tired that contributed to a broken heart and low self worth. But now, today, I choose me. MY TRUTH. As...2022-08-2343 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 5:Episode #9-The Hardest GoodbyesHey Y'allThis one is personal, close to my heart and heavy. This episode of the couch I discuss what I believe to be the hardest goodbye, letting go of a friendship in adulthood. Choosing to do life with people and opening ourselves up to them is beautiful and in some ways restoring. But what happens when you have to say goodbye? The intensity of the love held becomes a pain that lives in our hearts. Fresh from such a goodbye, I know all too well and I share thoughts on goodbyes from my past, from the end...2022-08-1929 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 5:Episode #8- From Striving to ThrivingHey Y'all!As we move through seasons of life, we can look back and see how we survived, over-achieved, fell down, worked hard to strive or gave up. On this episode of the couch, I share how I am choosing to move from the heavy burden of striving to create change to the surrender that opens up the space to thrive in God's will. Just a short and quick chat on the couch that I hope you'll join me for!2022-07-2618 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 5: Episode 7- Breathing FreelyHey Y'all!Welcome back to the couch. Join me for this episode where I share a story on how I was low-key suffocating myself slowly and the powerful lessons learned when I decided to release and let go. Sometimes we hold on too tight and the main person we hinder and hurt in the process is ourselves. Grab a drink, a soft blanket and lets walk through this together!2022-06-3023 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 5: Episode #6- Loving Ourselves In Our Love Language(s)Hey Y'all!It was a night of no kiddos climbing in bed to wake me up which meant actually waking up when my 6 a.m. alarm went off. Prayers, coffee and quiet time translated to a few thoughts about love languages and what it looks like to love ourselves the way we are often told we should look to others to. Join me for this quick chat on the couch before the start of a full day!2022-05-0213 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 5: Episode #5- We Are WorthyToo often we see our value and worth tied directly to external validations or tangible reward. Join me as I tell you how new bedding both challenged my perspective and showed me more about how I see myself than I ever thought possible. Look forward to meeting you on the couch 2022-04-0422 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 5:Episode #4-The Illusion of EnoughHey Y'all!We have all said and heard, "enough is enough," right? I hope you will join me on the couch to tackle the illusion of "enough" and how those six letters can keep us stuck in patterns, thoughts and behaviors that no longer serve us. I am choosing to exchange "enough" with a word that doesn't trigger my survival tactics and send me into spirals that feel overwhelming. Maybe you will want to remove it from your vocabulary soon too!2022-03-0725 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 5: Episode 3- Holding On Can Be HardHey Y'all!**Trigger Warning**This episode, I touch on suicide, depression and mental health. If you or someone you know are struggling there is help available, please see below for resources. As we wrap the first month of the year, re-evaluating how far we have (or haven't come) on obtaining goals and meeting resolutions can be burdensome. And even though we all love a fresh start and clean slate, life doesn't stop and some hits knock the wind out of us because we don't expect the blow. Join me as I discuss what it was like when...2022-01-2425 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 5:Episode #2- Trusting Your TruthHey Y'all! In this episode, join me on the couch as we touch on the importance of following your truth and leaving behind the path of people pleasing and self-doubt. The process of learning to trust the way that is made clear to you instead of looking for approval can be scary but so worth the work. Come grab your seat on the couch!2022-01-1119 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 5:Episode #1- HAPPY NEW YEARHey Y'all! We made it through the holiday season and are smack dab at the start of a whole new year! So thankful to have made it this far and I look forward to all this year has in store. On the couch in the coming weeks there will be some laughs, some tears and a whole lot of truth. I hope you will join in on the conversations and bring a few friends to get comfy with us as we move through the beauty of this community in 2022!2022-01-0309 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsFavorite Episode Recap: Mom GuiltAs we prepare to create and curate more opportunities for conversations the couch, catch up on some of our favorite moments and interviews from our first year!2021-12-2019 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsFavorite Episode Recaps: Thy GuintivanoAs we prepare to create and curate more opportunities for conversations the couch, catch up on some of our favorite moments and interviews from our first year!2021-12-1354 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsFavorite Episode Recap: Goals Beyond Our RolesAs we prepare to create and curate more opportunities for conversations the couch, catch up on some of our favorite moments and interviews from our first year!2021-12-0615 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsFavorite Episode Recaps: Dr. Stefany AndersonAs we prepare to create and curate more opportunities for conversations the couch, catch up on some of our favorite moments and interviews from our first year!2021-11-291h 02

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 4:Episode #7- Getting ClearHey Y'all!There are days we all sit and wish life or some circumstances were different. We dream about how life would be different "if...". Between a pandemic, forced quarantine and finding out footing in this new season, we have to do more than just contemplate and daydream. Getting clear about what you want isn't solely about financial gain. What do you want your relationships to look like? How do you want to leave a legacy in this world? What do you hope to teach and possibly even learn? Nothing that we desire to achieve happens by chance...2021-11-0421 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 4:Episode #6- It's Okay To Not Be OkayHey Y'all! As we leave the early sunrises and late sunsets of summer and cooler temps kick in, many of us will begin spending more time inside. Much like the shifts in physical seasons, we experience similar shifts in our mental and emotional health. In a culture so bent on performance and optics, many people are struggling but too afraid to admit it. Chile, let me start by telling on myself. Join me on the couch and get close because as I share with you my vulnerabilities and truths, I hope y'all are able to face yours and do...2021-10-1919 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsIT'S OUR ANNIVERSARYHey Y'all!Can y'all believe it's been a whole year since the very first episode of Mommy Couch Confessions went live?! I know, me either! I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to create this space and to have been able to share it with so many amazing women and mothers. The journey of motherhood is a marathon, not a sprint and I hope you are gearing up to stay with me on the couch as I continue to have the conversations that usually only occur with close friends (even if they are just the voices...2021-10-0607 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 4:Episode #4-Showing Up However You CanHey Y'all! Have you ever had the hardest time getting up and moving? Has the thought of all you "have to do" make you want to not even take the first step? The heaviness of performance and idea that circumstances have to be just right can be the biggest hinderance to our progress. Join me this episode and see how I am learning to fight through perfection in order to make space for what is important. And trust friends, if I can do it...so can you!2021-09-2915 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 4:Episode #3- Testing Your Healing**Trigger Warning**On this episode I discuss childhood trauma, assault and the process of healing that has spanned over 25 years. Trauma in any form can be painful and I am aware that we are all on different paths of healing and growth. The idea to test my healing by putting myself in environments that directly correlated with my childhood trauma proved to be more detrimental than I anticipated but the growth and perspective I have been able to take away are very much worth sharing. I hope you choose to join me on the couch and explore...2021-09-0621 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 4:Episode #2- Season of SeekingHere we go, the first of many couch sessions where I share a few highlights and lessons from a trip that went from a "never doing that" to being the best decision of my adult life. Sometimes we don't realize that in the process of living we are looking for something. There's power in showing up, moving past trying into doing and being present as it all unfolds. Join me on the couch as we get into this season of seeking and let me know what you've been searching for yourself!2021-08-3020 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 4:Episode #1-Welcome BackHey Y'all! After an unplanned summer hiatus we are back on the couch. This has been a summer of traveling, life lessons and personal growth. I look forward to sharing a recap with you and discussing all things healing, surrender and real life! It has been a bumpy ride at times but one worth taking and as far as I can tell so far, this ride is no where near ending. I've saved you a seat on the couch and can't wait to reconnect!2021-08-2407 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsMonth of Men on the Couch w/ Dr. Ahmad AlexanderOn the last installment of our series, Month of Men on the Couch, I am joined by Dr. Ahmad Alexander. Ahmad is a husband, father and service member. Join us as we discuss the power of living without consumer debt and how work/life balance runs parallel to financial literacy and freedom. He shares the story of how he and his wife, fellow couch mate Dekeshia Alexander moved from disgust to done in paying off debts, investing and truly creating a life built on what they envision for their family.2021-05-2453 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsMonth of Men On the Couch w/ Rian SmithIn the third installment of engaging with the male perspective during the month of May, join myself and friend Rian Smith as he shares his perspective on the freedom of marriage. Rian and I share our thoughts and realizations around what freedom within marital relationship looks like in many ways including emotionally, spiritually and sexually. As a husband, father, business owner and friend we delve into the nuances surrounding growing as a couple and the importance of individual growth to maximize enjoyment in our relationships. I look forward to you all joining us on the couch for this conversation.2021-05-1758 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsMonth of Men on the Couch w/ Termain AtwaterAs we continue with the male perspective during the month of May, join myself and friend Termain Atwater as he shares his perspective on the topics of perception (external) and introspection (internal) reflection and growth. Termain shares the intentional work he has done to grow and develop personally but professionally. His fresh take on understanding the difference between perception and introspection and how they relate to the roles of husband, father and friend was enlightening and I look forward to you all joining us on the couch for this conversation.2021-05-1044 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsMonth of Men on the Couch w/ Damani AndersonWelcome back to the couch! It's been a few weeks but the power of rest is real. Join me this month of May for conversations with men about topics from parenthood to personal growth. Joining me on this first Monday of May is my brother-in-life, friend and new father Damani Anderson as he shares his perspective of how fatherhood looks and how he sees his role as a stay-at-home father. Damani is the husband of Dr. Stefany Anderson, who joined me on the couch in season one and it was a pleasure to hear his side of the income...2021-04-0555 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 2:Episode #10- Prioritizing RestWe have all experienced seasons of life where the to-do list becomes daunting, the hats we were are plentiful and the roles we feel become overwhelming. There comes a point where recognizing when we are headed in the direction of exhaustion and depletion means we have to make some hard choices. There is a powerful shift that happens we when ask ourselves if we are making the best use of our "yeses" and if we are honoring our own boundaries enough by saying "no." Join me on the couch as I share how I am working through this process...2021-03-1510 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 2:Episode #9- Recognizing Mom GuiltWe've all felt it and know the burden that taking a trip on the mom guilt express will bring. And the truth the choosing not to take the trip sometimes requires up to pull the brakes and jump off. The symptoms can be subtle and the habit hard to break but guilt will hinder whatever we have set out to do and motherhood is no exception. Join me on this episode about working to recognize mom guilt and refusing to buy a ticket for that trip to nowhere.2021-03-0819 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 2:Episode #8-Things I Wish Someone Had Told MeThe journey of motherhood begins with so much advice about gestation, labor and delivery and once they no longer need to be swaddled or diapered the helpful suggestions taper off. What happens when children ask where babies come from? How do have the conversation surrounding racism with your children? Or how to approach faith in a way that children can understand and feel empowered to explore on their own? Those and a few others are questions tackled in the episode with my friend and fellow military spouse and homeschooling mama, Keyosha Atwater. With a plethora of experience that range f...2021-03-011h 25

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 2:Episode #7-The Invisible Load of Being A Mother of ColorMomming is hard, I think we can all agree. When you add the stress of preparing your children for a world that is almost the exact opposite of what we raise them up to believe in our homes and the trauma that is added when the cultural and societal happenings seem to scream injustice towards people who look like you...motherhood can become heavy. How much of current events do we explain without breaking our children's spirits? How do we tell them the truth without curating fear because the hatred or harm they are seeing, is being inflicted upon...2021-02-1518 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 2:Episode #6-Black History Month & The Importance of Teaching Accurate American HistoryFebruary has been established as Black History Month for as long as we (all those joining the couch with me) have been alive. But as curriculums across the country introduce or reinforce the idea that Black people in history don't move far beyond slavery until segregation and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. so much information is left out. With each generation that lacks knowledge of truth, as a society we get further and further away from reconciling that"Black History" is "American History" and instead of being relegated to one month should be as intricately woven into every lesson...2021-02-0815 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 2-Episode #5: Curating A Peaceful Co-Parenting RelationshipNot every family unit looks the same and as blended families become more and more prevalent, being able to navigate healthy relationships as partners in parenting can mean all the difference for the children in the middle. Join me as I talk with Umeko Smith, self-defense expert and entrepreneur as she shares how she has (and still is) purposefully curating healthy parental relationships so that her blended family can live in peace and thrive. Umeko is the owner of Juss Defense, as a certified self-defense instructor whose purpose is for women to feel empowered and prepared. You can check o...2021-02-0157 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 2:Episode #4-Overcompensation & MotherhoodProviding our children with the lifestyle better than what we had is the goal of many parents. The idea of "better" can extend to everything from education to opportunities but how mindful are we of overcompensating in areas we felt unfulfilled? Even as we see children younger and younger operating tablets, smartphones and electronics we have to remind ourselves that they have access to equipment far more expensive than the toys and trinkets of our day. When is it too much? How often do we evaluate our motives and intentions to be sure that we are doing what they...2021-01-2548 min

Stories Within UsAuthentic Living with Raquila-D’Nai SmithIn this episode, Raquila-D'Nai Smith explains how to live a life that is authentic and teaches our kids authenticity. We discuss how to start the year cultivating communication, connection, and peace within. About Raquila-D'Nai SmithRaquila-D’Nai Smith is a wife, mother, homeschooler, and speaker. She has three degrees in psychology and counseling and holds a certification as a life coach. Raquila-D’Nai is on a mission to encourage and inspire while helping people with vision masterfully use words to reach their target audience. She enjoys making people laugh as they gain insights and t...2021-01-2037 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 2:Episode #3- Sticks & StonesWe have all heard the adage, "sticks and stones can break my bones but words will never hurt me." Join me on the couch as I challenge that statement and the ideals that go along with it. Words have the power to build or tear down, to give life or death to situations and when used as a weapon can cause more damage and pain than any stick or stone thrown at us. I hope this message about words (one of my favorite things in this world) open your hearts and minds as it did when I received it...2021-01-1815 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 2:Episode #2- Doing Things DifferentlyBefore any of us were parents, we were our parent's children. We adopted traditions, responses and habits that naturally affect how we parent and filter in to the decisions we make in parenthood. While they may not be harmful or detrimental, we must ask ourselves, is this what we want for our family? Adopting new traditions, changing the ways things are done in your home and unit can be difficult. And to be honest, sometimes met with resistance from the other branches of the family tree. Join me as I discuss why it's important to let your branch grow...2021-01-1117 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsSeason 2:Episode #1- Showing Up For YourselfHappy New Year Y'all! As we kick off 2021, being mindful that the goals we set and intentions we establish is important. Making sure that we make time and space for consistent effort in order to meet those goals will be challenged on many fronts in motherhood. It is possible to change habits and do the work to improve. Join me and Dekeshia Alexander, founder of EmpowHer and ProjectMe-12 week personal training program as she shares her insights and tips from a coaching perspective. As a military spouse, entrepreneur, homeschooling mom of six (four on earth and two in Heaven...2021-01-041h 04

Mommy Couch ConfessionsEpisode #12-Mental Health and the HolidaysJoin me on the couch with my friend, Thy Guintivano, as we discuss the realities surrounding not so "perfect" holiday gatherings. As we come off the heels of Christmas, many didn't have a gathering that was full of fellowship and memories and it wasn't just because of COVID. As Thy shares her experiences with family and mental health, we acknowledge that showing up for yourself and setting boundaries are some of the best gifts you can give yourself.2020-12-281h 01

Mommy Couch ConfessionsEpisode #11-Setting Goals Beyond Our RolesIt is so very easy to allow the dreams and aspirations we hold dear to slowly slip away as we function in everyday life. Setting goals that fill our hearts and align with our skills sometimes feel impossible when the demands of daily roles and responsibilities never seem to let up. Today on the couch, come sit with me as I share why it is of the utmost importance to dust the cobwebs off those goals and to break out a fresh pen to reignite and make plain the vision!2020-12-2115 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsEpisode #10-Reconsidering EducationHey Y'all! For the most part, we have been conditioned to equate learning to academic achievement. But what happens if we step back and educate our children on topics and subjects that may not be heavily academic in nature but will equip them mentally, emotionally and spiritually for the future?2020-12-1420 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsEpisode #9-Intersection Between Childhood, Motherhood & TraumaIn this episode, my guest on the coach, Lakendria Dinkins owner of Hold Your Crown, LLC shares her story of motherhood which began as a teenager. The trials, traumas and triumphs she shares are not only eye-opening but empowering. From a place of transparency and vulnerability we get to hear the heart of a mother and the perspective of the woman she has become. You can find Lakendria's brand, Hold Your Crown on Facebook, Instagram and her website here. Look forward to seeing y'all next time, here on the couch!2020-12-071h 01

Mommy Couch ConfessionsEpisode #8-Protecting Your PeaceHey Y'all! The list and demands of motherhood are many but making time and space to protect your peace will help you stay centered on this journey of raising Little people.2020-11-3014 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsEpisode #7-But Are They Fed & AliveHey Y'all! In a time of parenting being largely defined as how well our children behave and how close we can get to completing the Pinterest checklists, let me remind you that sometimes acknowledging that you did your best is enough. And if your best is that your children have full bellies and are still breathing, congratulations mama, you get a gold star!2020-11-2317 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsEpisode #6-Parenting A Mini-YouHey Y'all! Listen, it's hard enough being a present and engaged parent in this world of non-stop movement but what happens when the child you are raising in your personality doppelganger? We can't parent the "us" out of them, but until we learn to engage in a way that acknowledges the similarities and differences we have, the struggle will never go away.2020-11-1621 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsEpisode #5-Home OrganizationHey Y'all! Let's be honest, just keeping a house clean in the midst of mothering, adulting and breathing can be a struggle. Between stepping on Legos that are hidden in the carpet and the overwhelming laundry piles on the couch, creating and maintaining home organization is essential. It not only keeps things looking good but helps keep mommy meltdowns to a minimum...sometimes!2020-11-0915 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsEpisode #4- When Wives Make More Money w/ Stefany AndersonAs women break glass ceilings and continue to excel in careers, the potential to earn more income than your husband in a marriage becomes more of a reality. Join us on the couch for this inaugural interview with my friend Dr. Stefany Anderson, MD as we explore how the issue of being the greater income earner can creep in and how she traversed this topic within her marriage. Join us on this journey about money, therapy and how a few collar snatches from the Lord helped refocus and overcome this potential hurdle.2020-11-0259 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsEpisode #3-Parenting PTOHey Y'all! Just like in traditional work settings, paid time off (PTO) is an exciting benefit we get to make use of, parenting is no different! The job description is ever-evolving, demanding and sometimes we need to cash in a few of our days to recenter, rest and not have to be responsible for other human beings. There's something renewing about being solo with your own womanly awesomeness every now and again!2020-10-2613 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsEpisode #2-Personal Childhood TraumasHey Y'all! Join me on the couch this episode as we address the reality that most of us adopted messaging in childhood stemming from less than stellar events that have followed us into adulthood and sometimes in our parenting. Looking back can be hard and painful BUT that doesn't mean we should ignore pasts. Doing so may cause us to repeat some of the same cycles with our children. When nothing changes, nothing changes and I think we can agree, we want better for the next generation.2020-10-1916 min

Mommy Couch ConfessionsEpisode #1-Welcome to the CouchWelcome to the inaugural episode of Mommy Couch Confessions. One this episode you will hear my heart and inspiration behind starting the podcast and my hope for all of our future time together on the couch!2020-10-0613 min

The Refreshed Moms Podcast#148 How Your Childhood Impacts Your Parenting & Business with Raquila D'Nai SmithMy name is Deanna, and I struggle with Performance Orientation.What is performance orientation you may ask?In a nutshell, It's the strong need to receive affirming validation for your work.You know, the "Good jobs!" "You're amazing!" "You're awesome!" need to come in all the time in order for you to feel like you're doing good work.If you're like me and struggle with this, then you probably see this need showing up in your parenting and in your business.Let me tell you - it's now way...2020-09-0856 min