267th Date: You’re NOT Growing Because You Won’t Do This… (Real Talk on Self-Love & Choosing YOU)

Hosts: Yusuf & Vanetta In this powerful and transparent episode of Relationship Status Podcast, Yusuf English and Vanetta shift the focus from romantic relationships to the most important one of all—the relationship you have with yourself. From hilarious food debates (Chicago vs. everywhere else ) to deeply personal reflections, the conversation evolves into an honest exploration of self-awareness, growth, and what it really means to “become” who you’re meant to be. Vanetta opens up about her journey from teenage motherhood to finally discovering herself later in life—after years of prioritizing everyone else. She shares how stepping into isolation, moving to a new city, and leaning into faith forced her to confront who she truly is outside of being a mother, wife, or provider. Yusuf reflects on his own path—breaking free from comfort zones, learning to say no, and stepping into leadership by choosing himself, even when it meant making tough decisions and losing relationships. Together, they unpack: Why growth requires discomfort The danger of being a people pleaser Learning that “no” is a complete sentence How environment impacts your evolution The challenge of choosing yourself without guilt What it looks like to redefine your identity outside of roles And the ultimate question: Do you love yourself in a way that others can see it? This episode is raw, reflective, and relatable—perfect for anyone navigating change, healing, or personal evolution. Join the conversation: What are you unlearning to grow? Who are you becoming? Do you truly love yourself? Tap in, reflect, and start becoming the version of you that you owe yourself. Follow, subscribe, and share with someone who needs this message. Send advice letters to: [email protected] Follow on all platforms: @RELSTATPodcast Support on Patreon: Patreon.com/Relationshipstatus for bloopers, bonus content, and more Chapters (00:00:00) - Relationship Status(00:01:13) - Favorite Chicago-Style Food(00:04:47) - Black Men Selling Hoodies at the Mall(00:07:41) - No Society Hoodie(00:09:21) - No Society(00:09:34) - The Relationship With Yourself(00:14:38) - Growing Up Struggling(00:19:22) - Kiki On Being Uncomfortable In College(00:21:47) - What's Something About Yourself That You Had to Unlearn in Order(00:26:09) - Ashley Martin on Becoming Her Girl(00:30:30) - Why I Chopped My Hair(00:32:28) - Choosing Who to Love(00:35:11) - Joe Clark: I'm Becoming An Hnic(00:38:22) - You Do Everything The Way You Do It(00:38:58) - Vanetta on Becoming A Real Woman(00:42:37) - Kanye West: I Don't Need No Advice From People(00:46:31) - Kanye West: I Have No Competition(00:49:45) - Do You Love Yourself As A Person?