PODCAST · society
Baddie Besties
by Alyssa Silva and Samira Francois
Welcome to the Baddie Besties Podcast, the unfiltered space where best friends Samira and Alyssa get real about womanhood and carving your own path in your 20s. As first-generation women, they were both raised on the “safe” blueprint of success: doctor, lawyer, nurse, engineer, etc. But when that path didn’t feel like theirs, they decided to talk about the messy in-between of feeling lost, ambitious, and uncertain, and Baddie Besties was born. What started as candid conversations about navigating life soon grew into their Hey Barbie series and reset events, The Pause Festival & Pause Pop-Ups.
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Hey Barbie: Candiace Dillard Bassett on RHOP, Her Life Journey, The Traitors & Choosing Peace
Candiace Dillard Bassett, singer, actress, former Miss United States, and one of the most talked-about stars from The Real Housewives of Potomac joins Baddie Besties for an unfiltered conversation about fame, identity, motherhood, music, and what it really means to own your voice unapologetically.From pageantry and politics to reality TV and R&B, Candiace opens up about navigating public scrutiny, protecting her peace, and evolving from being “misunderstood” to fully stepping into her power. She shares what Howard University and working in the White House under Barack Obama taught her about discipline and ambition, the reality of being edited on television, and the emotional cost of always speaking your mind.We also get into:why she chose to step away from RHOPthe pressure of public perceptionmotherhood and her postpartum health scaresocial media backlash and boundariesher transition from Housewife to artisther new single “If Only”her upcoming album and stage projectsjoining The Traitorsand what life is looking like today in this next eraThis episode is for every woman. Stream Now!!Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest Candiace Dillard Bassett!! Stream her new single, "If Only," which interpolates Patti Labelle's classic song "If Only You Knew" and stay on the lookout for both Candiace's new album coming out this summer and her performance in the stage play "I've Cried the Blues" in New Haven, CT. And lastly, be sure to stream UNDOMESTICATED, Candiace's podcast co-hosted with NY Times bestselling author Michael Arceneaux!
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$1 MILLION LIES EXPOSED: Umeko Peterson & Kate Ellis (Million Dollar Secret) Reveal What REALLY Happened At The Stag
Umeko Peterson and Kat Ellis from Million Dollar Secret are finally breaking down what REALLY happened inside The Stag… and let’s just say, the internet has a lot to say.From secret missions and alliances to betrayals that changed the game, we’re getting the full story behind one of Netflix’s most intense strategy competitions.Umeko was praised by fans as one of the strongest players of the season, executing her secret agendas flawlessly, building key alliances, and staying calm under pressure… until she was suddenly voted out.Kat played bold, high-risk, high-reward, making some of the biggest moves of the season, including the infamous clue lie that had the entire house questioning everything.In this episode, we get into:What it’s really like living inside The StagUmeko’s “flawless” gameplay and secret missionsKat’s biggest risk and whether she regrets itThe Nick showmance 👀The vote that shocked viewersThe Trophy Room chaosWhat the audience didn’t seeAnd life after the showYou don't wanna miss this tea! Stream now!Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guests Umeko Peterson and Kat Ellis + tune into their full season of Million Dollar Secret season 2 on Netflix!!
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THE ‘BIG THREE’ SPEAK OUT: Temptation Island Girls EXPOSE What Really Happened
The “Big Three” from Temptation Island are finally telling THEIR side… and let’s just say, the internet got a lot wrong.From their first night walking into the villa, to their friendships with Mikey, to the moments that didn’t make it on screen… we’re getting the full story.Were they really “temptresses”… or just girls navigating a wild experience in real time?In this episode, we get into:Why they came on the show as singlesWhat REALLY went down in the villaThe truth about Mikey and the “three amigos”The tent rumors Friendship, loyalty, and boundariesLife after the show and what they learnedFollow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guests Christelle, Jesenia, and India + tune into their full season of Temptation Island season 2 on Netflix!!
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Sydney McGregor Breaks Her Silence: What REALLY Happened with Mikey & Xavier on Temptation Island
Sydney McGregor is finally telling her FULL side of the story after Temptation Island Season 2… and nothing is off limits.From her relationship with Mikey, to the viral bonfire moment that changed everything, to why she ultimately chose Xavier… we’re breaking it ALL down.Did she cheat… or was she already done? Was Mikey serious about her… or still stuck in his “hoe phase”? And what did we not see that made her walk away for good?In this episode, we get into EVERYTHING, including what viewers didn't see and the drama that occurred post show. Stream now! Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest Sydney McGregor and tune into her full season of Temptation Island season 2 on Netflix!!
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Weekly Digest: Ciara Miller, Beyond the Villa, Temptation Island, WNBA Pay, Emma Grede’s 3-Hour Mom, & the Alix vs Alex Drama
Hey besties! Let's get into our weekly digest... this one gets messy fast.We’re getting into friendship, loyalty, and what really happens when your ex and your bestie start moving weird. Ciara Miller’s Glamour interview has everyone talking, including us! Over on Temptation Island, we're talking who is/isn't off limits. The WNBA pay jump (hello 359% increase 👀) has us talking about women, money, and finally getting what’s deserved. The conversation around Khloé Kardashian & Lamar Odom has our jaws to the floor. On Beyond the Villa, loyalty vs neutrality is tested, we get into girl code, if Coco is being delusional or not... Internet drama is heating up with Alex Cooper vs Alix Earle and half of the internet is coming for Emma Grede’s “3-hour mom” take. CHILE... we are getting into all of it. You don't wanna miss this week's digest. Stream now!Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois
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"I’m Abstinent,” Vanelle (Netflix Age of Attraction) clears the air on all things Jorge, Celibacy & Dating Post-Show
Vanelle is finally speaking AFTER the reunion… and nothing is off limits. From her controversial definition of celibacy, to the tension with Jorge, to the internet calling their relationship “confusing”… we break it ALL down. Was she sending mixed signals? Did Jorge already know he wasn’t okay with her boundaries? Or was this just a major communication breakdown from the start? What really happened on the street that day? You name it, we're on it. Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest Vanelle !!
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Hey Barbie: Governor Maura Healey & First Lady Joanna Lydgate – Power, Partnership & Breaking Barriers
In this special Women’s History Month edition of Hey Barbie, we’re honoring a true trailblazing Barbie: Maura Healey, the first woman and first openly LGBTQ person elected Governor of Massachusetts, alongside her partner, Joanna Lydgate, First Lady, lawyer, CEO, and advocate for democracy.Together, they represent a historic moment in leadership, love, and representation. From public service to personal partnership, they open up about what it means to lead with purpose, break barriers, and build a life rooted in impact.This episode celebrates Women’s History Month by highlighting leadership, resilience, and representation at the highest level, while honoring this Barbie for redefining power, partnership, and progress for the next generation.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guests Governor Maura Healey & First Lady Joanna Lydgate!!
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“Was I Actually Clingy?” Leah Nicole (Netflix's Age of Attraction) Finally Tells Her Side
Leah Nicole from Age of Attraction is finally telling HER side.From her emotional connection with Chris, to THAT viral moment where he broke down to his mom, to the internet calling her “too much”… nothing is off limits.Was she really clingy? Did Chris already know he was going to say no? And why didn’t we see her family on screen?This episode dives into:Behind-the-scenes moments you DIDN’T seeThe truth about their relationship dynamicWhat really happened on Commitment DayAnd where Leah stands todayPlus: we react to viral clips and internet opinions in real time 👀Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest Leah Nicole !!
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Ashley Carpenter Love is Blind Season 10 Ohio Breaks Her Silence
In this spicy episode of Baddie Besties, Alyssa & Samira sit down with Love Is Blind Season 10's Ashley Carpenter, for a conversation that goes beyond the headlines.From post-show friendships to reunion tension, our special guest opens up about what viewers didn’t fully see, the dynamics that felt misunderstood, and the choices that sparked major conversation online.They also dive into the reality behind the experiment itself — from casting to compatibility — and what happens when love, pressure, and perception collide.This isn’t about drama — it’s about clarity.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest Ashley Carpenter !!
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Hey Barbie: The Truth About Growing Up In the SpotLight (feat. Azzy Milan)
Hey Barbie: Growing Up Online Without Losing Yourself (feat. Azzy Milan)What does it really mean to grow up in front of millions of people… without losing who you are?In this episode of Baddie Besties, Samira and Alyssa sit down with Azzy Milan, one of Gen Z’s rising IT-girls, to talk about evolving in public, building a real brand (not just a following), and learning how to protect your identity in a world that’s always watching.From fashion and culture to launching her own podcast and YouTube series, Azzy opens up about what it’s like to reinvent yourself in real time, outgrow old versions of yourself, and step into your next era with confidence. We get into the pressure of expectations, the reality of having a famous last name without letting it define you, and the behind-the-scenes of turning content into a long-term media platform.This episode is for every girl in her 20s who feels like she’s becoming a new version of herself every year - and trying to figure out how to grow, glow, and stay grounded while doing it. Consider this your sleepover conversation with the girls who are building their lives out loud.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest Azzy Milan !!
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Black History, But Make It Baddie
This Black History Month, Samira and Alyssa are doing something different.Instead of a history lesson, they’re taking you through a real day in the life of Baddie Besties - from waking up, getting ready, working, traveling, and hanging out - and asking one simple question:What would everyday life look like without Black people?From hair and beauty, to technology, transportation, food, language, and culture, this episode breaks down the inventions, ideas, and cultural moments Black people created that we all use every single day… without even realizing it.No textbooks. No lectures. Just vibes, culture, and the truth.Because Black history isn’t just the past. It’s literally the present.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois
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Hey Barbie: Miss USA 2025 Tells All - Crowns, Confidence & Competing at Miss Universe
In this inspiring Hey Barbie episode, we’re joined by Audrey Eckert, Miss USA 2025, global cheer coach, digital safety advocate, and founder of the Digital Safety Ambassador Program. Audrey takes us behind the crown, sharing what it was really like representing the United States at Miss Universe and placing Top 30 on the global stage.From growing up in Nebraska to working with Thai artisans through a human-rights-driven fashion brand, Audrey’s journey is rooted in purpose, impact, and intentional leadership. We dive into how she balances confidence with humility, glam with mental health, and influence with real-world change - all while empowering young people to navigate social media with confidence and clarity.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest Audrey Eckert!!
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Cupid’s Chaos: A Valentine’s & Galentine’s Sleepover Special
Valentine’s Day is here… and whether you’re in love, in a situationship, or in your single era, this episode is for you. In this special Baddie Besties game night, Samira and Alyssa turn love into a full-on sleepover experience with spicy relationship stats, messy dating scenarios, and real girl talk you only have with your best friends at 2 a.m.Grab your snacks, text your bestie, and get comfortable. This is Cupid’s Chaos.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois
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Girl 2 Girl: What Not To Do In 2026
2026 is the reset we’ve been waiting for.In this Girl 2 Girl episode of Baddie Besties, the girls are talking honestly about what they're leaving behind in 2025. They're answering listener questions throughout this week's episode, because growth is better when we do it together.If you’re choosing peace, protecting your energy, and stepping into your soft girl era with intention, this episode is for you.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois
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Hey Barbie: If We Can Build It, So Can You
Welcome to a special Hey Barbie episode of Baddie Besties, where the hosts become the guests. This series spotlights barrier-breaking women who prove that owning your brilliance can create real impact. Inspired by Barbie’s legacy of over 250 careers, Hey Barbie celebrates modern-day Barbies who are defining their own lanes, building community, and rewriting the rules.In this episode, Samira and Alyssa step into Podcaster Barbie and Community Builder Barbie, sharing how Baddie Besties went from an idea to a platform that hosts sold-out events, meaningful conversations, and powerful collaborations. From starting a podcast with no blueprint to balancing life, work, and wellness, this episode is for every girl who has ever said, “I want to start… but I don’t know how.”Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois
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Ear To The Streets
This episode is for the group chat that actually keeps up.Sam & Alyssa tap into what’s really buzzing — the headlines, the subtext, the uncomfortable truths people are dancing around online.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois
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New Year’s 2025 EXPOSED: Celebrity Drama, Hookups & Messy Predictions
New Year, new tea, new drama. Samira and Alyssa are back with the ultimate Baddie Besties game show special, diving into the juiciest celebrity drama, city celebrations, and wild predictions for 2026. From viral 2025 moments to spicy relationship scenarios, we’re asking the questions everyone is thinking but too scared to say out loud. Grab your champagne and get ready for laughs, stats, and chaos.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois
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The Christmas Episode You Never Knew You Needed | Baddie Besties Holiday Edition + Can I Vibe With Y’all
Happy Holidays, besties 🎄✨Baddie Besties are back with a Holiday Edition collab featuring Can I Vibe With Y’all? and we’re bringing nothing but laughs, chaos, and unfiltered holiday takes.From worst gifts ever to Naughty or Nice behavior, a messy gift guessing game, and holiday hot takes, this episode is everything you need to end the year on a high note.Grab your cocoa and vibe with us.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira FrancoisAnd of course, make sure to follow Can I Vibe With Y'all and stream their podcast everywhere.
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Dear Besties: We Might Get Cancelled for This (Part Two)
This week, Samira & Alyssa dive into Part Two - the hottest, messiest, “should we even say this?” questions you sent in. Dating delusion in 2025, jealous friendships, soft-life careers, boundaries vs. avoidance, and pop-culture relationships. If the chat is too scared to talk about it… we’re not.Tune in, bestie. Let’s get real.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois
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Dear Besties: We Might Get Cancelled for This
This week, Samira & Alyssa dive into the hottest, messiest, “should we even say this?” questions you sent in. Dating delusion in 2025, jealous friendships, soft-life careers, boundaries vs. avoidance, and pop-culture relationships. If the chat is too scared to talk about it… we’re not.Tune in, bestie. Let’s get real.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois
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A Thanksgiving Special: Blessings, Men's Mental Health & Embarrassing Boyfriends
In this Thanksgiving episode, the baddie besties get real about gratitude, mental health, and the chaos of modern dating. We start with our Baddie Gratitude Check — celebrating the big wins, small blessings, and emotional growth that shaped our year. For Movember, we dive into a Men’s Mental Health Moment: why vulnerability is still hard for men and how society shapes their silence. Then we unpack Vogue’s “Is Having a Boyfriend Embarrassing Now?”, exploring dating in 2025, the rise of single-girl culture, the shift toward private relationships, and whether you can love someone without losing yourself.A cozy, honest, and culture-packed episode, perfect for anyone navigating love, life, and the holidays. Tune in!Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois
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Baddie Besties On The Road: Building a Beauty Empire, One Nail at a Time with Nayline Carrion
We’re hitting the road to Naior B Nail Studio to sit down with Nayline – founder, creative director, and visionary behind Boston’s boldest nail looks. Driven by a passion for beauty, detail, and creating confidence, Nayline has turned nails into more than just a service. They are a statement, a form of self-expression, and a way to bring color and energy into the city. Stream now!Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest Nayline and get your nails done at Naior B !!
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Hey Barbie: Guerdy Abraira on From Trauma to Trophies, Turning Pain Into Power
In this Hey Barbie episode, Samira and Alyssa sit down with The Real Housewives of Miami star, award-winning event designer, and breast cancer survivor Guerdy Abraira for a deeply moving and empowering conversation about resilience, rebirth, and redefining womanhood.From losing everything and rebuilding to becoming one of Vogue’s top wedding planners and launching her interactive memoir From Trauma to Trophies, Guerdy opens up about surviving breast cancer, navigating fame, and embracing what she calls The Let Me Era.This episode goes beyond reality TV and dives into her true story - one about faith, femininity, and fierce self-advocacy. Whether you know her from RHOM or you’re just meeting her today, Guerdy’s journey is a masterclass in turning pain into purpose and trauma into trophies.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest Guerdy Abraira and purchase her new interactive memoir From Trauma to Trophies !!
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Hey Barbie: The Bachelor Winner, Juliana Pasquarosa on Finding Love, and Family's Perspective with Sister Dominique
In this Hey Barbie episode, Samira and Alyssa sit down with The Bachelor Season 29 breakout star Juliana Pasquarosa, alongside her sister Dominique, for an unfiltered, heartfelt, and empowering conversation about love, family, resilience, and reinventing yourself after the spotlight fades.From finding love on national TV and facing heartbreak in front of millions to co-founding Nice Girl Label and staying grounded in her Boston roots, Juliana opens up about what it really means to stay true to yourself when the world is watching.We dive into everything from casting secrets, life post-breakup, navigating fame, and building a brand around kindness and comfort. If you’ve ever dreamed of being on The Bachelor, or just wondered what happens after the final rose, this episode is your backstage pass to confidence, closure, and sisterhood.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guests Juliana Pasquarosa, her sister Dominique and their beautiful business Nice Girl Label !!
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Hey Barbie: But Make It Haunted with Sydney Jo, TikTok star behind The Group Chat
Hey Barbie, it's a spooky season! 💅🎃 This week, your besties are joined by the hilarious and iconic Sydney Jo, the mastermind behind The Group Chat series that took over TikTok (and Charlie Puth’s FYP). We’re diving into her power origin story: how she went from theater student to viral creator, turning real-life friendship drama into skit gold.Then we’re switching gears for some Halloween chaos, get ready to laugh, relate, and say it with us: Hey Barbie, we’re scared… but make it cute. 💋Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest Sydney Jo !!
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The Butterfly Tour: Taryn Delanie Smith on Authenticity, Friendship & Building Community
In this special Baddie Besties x Her Campus Butterfly Tour episode, we sit down live with Taryn Delanie Smith, creator, former Miss New York, podcast host, and community advocate, for a heartfelt and empowering conversation on authenticity, purpose, and sisterhood.Taryn opens up about staying grounded while growing online, nurturing real friendships through life’s transitions, and balancing love, career, and self in a season of evolution. She also shares what keeps her connected to her community, the lessons behind her humor and honesty, and the advice she’d give her 18-year-old self.Tune in for laughs, real talk, and a reminder that becoming her means showing up as your truest self — both online and off.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest Taryn Delanie Smith, Her Conference, and Her Campus!!#ButterflyTour #HerCampus #TarynDelanieSmith
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The Butterfly Tour: Booked, Blessed & Becoming with Olandria Carthen
In this special Baddie Besties x Her Campus Butterfly Tour episode, we sit down live at Texas A&M with Olandria Carthen, reality TV favorite, model, and first-generation trailblazer, for an inspiring, unfiltered conversation on growth, grace, and glowing through change.Olandria opens up about navigating fame, maintaining strong female friendships, and trusting herself when the world had opinions about her story. She also shares her favorite affirmations, her journey as a first-gen graduate walking NYFW, and the power of believing in what’s meant for you.Tune in for laughs, life lessons, and a reminder that becoming her means staying grounded, grateful, and glowing through it all. Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest Olandria Carthen, Her Conference, and Her Campus!!#ButterflyTour #OlandriaxButterflyTour #OlandriaxHerCampus #Olandria
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Glow Up or Mess Up: Fall Edition- Adulting, Hustle and Self-Worth in Your 20s
Fall is here, the leaves are changing, and it’s the perfect time to talk about leveling up your 20s without losing your mind or your friends. Today’s episode is packed as we get into hot mess careers, self-worth struggles, the challenges of dream chasing, and even fall-inspired topics for the girlies. Grab your favorite fall beverage, pop in some headphones, and tune in!Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois
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Locker Room Edition: The Hot Seat
Besties, welcome back to the Locker Room Edition! Buckle up, because today’s Hot Seat episode is pure chaos. Alyssa and Samira are putting on their coaches hat, spilling tea, answering the most unhinged “Who’s More Likely” questions, and debating the ultimate question: stick by your man or DIP? This episode is hilarious, relatable, and just a little too real. By the end, you’ll be laughing, screaming, and maybe even learning a thing or two. Stream now!Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois
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Love, Lies & Lip Service: The Ultimate Relationship Game Show
Love is in the air… but so are arguments, double texts, and late-night “wyd” messages. 💔💌 In this Baddie Besties game show special, Samira and Alyssa are putting relationships under the microscope with stats, debates, and hilarious banter that will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about love. From whether a “medium ugly” man is really the safest bet, to testing if kindness actually tops looks, to messy “what would you do?” scenarios — this episode has it all. Grab your popcorn (or your situationship) because we’re about to play the spiciest game of “Love, Lies & Lip Service” ever.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois
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All Things Black Girl: Unemployment, VMA's + Betting on Yourself
This week, Samira and Alyssa are diving into All Things Black Girl — the highs, the struggles, the culture, and the wins. From the alarming rise in unemployment rates among Black women to Summer Walker debuting a new man at the VMAs, the besties are keeping it real about the challenges we face while celebrating the beauty of knowing our worth. They’ll talk careers, dating, fashion, and money moves — because being a Black girl is about power, resilience, and joy.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois
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Love Island Reunion: Clearing the Air with Ej (Part 2)
TW & Disclaimer: Baddie Besties does not condone racism, sexual assault, or bullying of any kind. We are a platform by women, for women, who believe in unfiltered conversations and creating safe spaces to speak your truth. The statements shared in this episode reflect the personal perspectives of our guest. This conversation does not serve as a legal determination of events and should not be interpreted as such. Love Island USA Season 7 has officially wrapped, and the reunion was just as messy, emotional, and jaw-dropping as the season itself. In this Part 2 episode of Love Island Reunion: Clearing The Air, the Baddie Besties break down all the biggest moments with their special guest, EJ (@ej__1728). From the Final Four couples and where they really stand post-villa, to Huda & Chris’ fallout, Coco throwing shade, Jeremiah standing on business, and conversations about racism, the reunion definitely stirred the pot.Grab your popcorn, because this reunion recap is as unfiltered as it gets.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our special guest, EJ!!
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Love Island Reunion: Clearing the Air with EJ (Part 1)
Trigger Warning: This conversation discusses sexual assault and racism, topics that require sensitivity and self-care. In this heartfelt and unfiltered episode, we sit down with EJ (@ej__1728) to address systemic racism and other issues that arose in Love Island USA Season 7. We explore EJ’s perspective on complex issues including backlash he's received related to topics of sexual assault, colorism, and more. As we unpack these difficult moments, our goal is to prioritize accountability, truth, and support for survivors.Join us for an honest dialogue about accountability, advocacy, and owning your truth, because understanding and growth come through difficult conversations. Stay tuned for Part 2 where we get into the Love Island USA Season 7 Reunion!Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our special guest, EJ!!
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Hey Barbie: The Journey of award-winning Boston Globe columnist, Jeneé Osterheldt
In this Hey Barbie episode, we sit down with Jeneé Osterheldt, an award-winning Boston Globe columnist and 2016-2017 Nieman Fellow at Harvard. Known for her series, A Beautiful Resistance, Jeneé uses journalism as a tool for truth-telling, healing, and joy — especially for Black and brown communities. In this episode, we are talking about storytelling as activism, building a platform with purpose, and the power of preserving culture through words. This episode is for every girl with a pen, a purpose, and a voice that refuses to be silenced.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest Jeneé Osterheldt !!
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Dear Besties: Womanhood, Period, & Being a Girls Girl
In this episode of Baddie Besties, Samira and Alyssa are getting real about the unspoken struggles of womanhood—periods, friendships, being a “girl’s girl,” and all the silent guilt we carry trying to show up for everyone but ourselves. We’re diving into the tough convos no one warned us about, but every bestie needs to hear. From awkward first cramps to decoding loyalty in a digital world, this is your safe space to vent, laugh, heal, and feel seen.Stream now and submit your own “Dear Bestie” for a chance to be featured in our next episode! 🎧💌
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Besties Unfiltered: The Journey No One Sees
Besties, this one’s raw, real, and straight from the heart. In this special behind-the-scenes episode, Samira and Alyssa are pulling back the curtain on what this podcast journey has actually looked like—no filters, no fluff, just the truth.We’re talking: The FaceTime calls that started it all, our “WTF are we doing?” moments, the struggles that led to The Pause, how we survive as long-distance besties, and of course - the dreams we’re chasing (and why we’re not giving up)🎧 Press play for laughter, real talk, and a whole lot of love. Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois
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After the Villa: Racism, Cancel Culture, & Clout - Love Island Season 7
In this episode of Baddie Besties, Samira and Alyssa are unpacking the chaos, contradictions, and cancellations coming out of the Love Island universe. We’re talking heartbreak, girl code, public loyalty vs. private morality, and what happens when your faves fumble the bag—hard.From JaNa’s messy breakup with Kenny, to Chelley being spotted with a known problematic fave, to Amaya’s old colorist tweets coming back to haunt her… we're asking the hard questions: What is real growth? Who deserves grace? And can you be a good person today if your past says otherwise?It’s a conversation every bestie needs to hear—about loyalty, racism, healing, and the fine line between protecting your peace and protecting your image. Stream now! 🎧💌Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois
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Hey Barbie: Becoming Boston' s Chief Communications Officer & Powerhouse Entrepreneur, Jessicah Pierre
In this compelling Hey Barbie episode, we sit down with Jessicah Pierre, the Chief Communications Officer for the City of Boston — a dynamic leader shaping how Boston communicates, connects, and leads. From growing up in a Haitian-American household to founding her own media platform before stepping into government leadership, Jessicah’s journey is a masterclass in authenticity, impact, and purpose-driven storytelling. This conversation is about finding your voice, owning your seat at the table, and amplifying stories that matter.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest Jessicah Pierre
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Baddie Besties On The Road: Dry Bar behind the scenes with veteran stylist and manager, Ashley Pemberton
We’re hitting the road and heading to Drybar Back Bay to sit down with Ashley Pemberton – Area Manager, veteran stylist, and the force behind Boston’s most glam blowouts. With 20 years in the industry and 9 years at Drybar, Ashley has worked her way up from stylist to running two of the city's top locations.In this special Baddie Besties On The Road feature, we explore the mission behind Drybar, how it transformed the beauty industry, and how Ashley is helping women feel confident one blowout at a time. We also go live from inside the Back Bay shop for a hands-on segment using Drybar’s signature hot tools and products, as we see real-time styling techniques that every baddie can try at home.This is more than a salon spotlight — it’s a celebration of confidence, career elevation, and community-building in the beauty world.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest Ashley Pemberton !!
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53
Hey Barbie: Netflix's Love On The Spectrum starring Princess Pari on Love, Neurodiversity, and Living Out Loud
In this special Hey Barbie edition of Baddie Besties, we sit down with the radiant Princess Pari—star of Netflix’s Love on the Spectrum—to talk all things self-love, neurodiversity, and owning your sparkle. With authenticity and joy, Pari is redefining what love, beauty, and confidence look like on and off the screen. From royal gowns to raw truths, this episode is all about celebrating yourself exactly as you are.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest Princess Pari !!
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52
Hey Barbie: Keyla Williams' Journey from Nursing to Nurturing Boston's Indie Fashion Scene
Meet Keyla Williams, a dynamic entrepreneur seamlessly blending her passion for healthcare and fashion. As co-founder of BOGOsplit, alongside her brother Kenelly Cineus and childhood friend Adriano Pinto, Keyla has transformed Boston's retail landscape by creating a platform that bridges indie designers with tech-savvy shoppers. Drawing inspiration from her Venezuelan and Haitian heritage and her mother's creative influence, Keyla's story is one of resilience, innovation, and community empowerment. In this episode, we delve into her multifaceted journey, exploring how she's nurturing both patients and Boston's creative community. Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest Keyla and shop at Bogosplit!!
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51
Love Island USA S7: We Stan Nicolandria
Get ready for the ultimate girl-to-girl dissection of Love Island USA Season 7. We unpack Huda’s epic crash-out, Ace & Amaya’s controversy, and the major recoupling of Nicolandria. Samira & Alyssa give you all the bestie tea—and room for girl chat. Stream now and comment your favorite couple on the island!Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois
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50
Hey Barbie: Getting into Public Relations with Victoria Tuttle
Barbies, meet your new favorite PR powerhouse: Victoria Tuttle, founder of Vision to the T PR and the magic behind Baddie Besties’ most iconic moments. In this episode, we’re diving deep into the glam, grit, and grind of public relations. We’ll talk entrepreneurship, purpose, balance, branding, and real-deal experiences that every baddie can learn from.Get ready to take notes—and get inspired.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest Victoria Tuttle !!
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49
Hey Barbie: Safety Against Sexual Assault with Raija Abdelaziz
Today on Hey Barbie, we sit down with Rajia Abdelaziz, the brilliant founder behind invisaWear — the company making personal safety powerful and fashionable. Rajia turned down a dream job at Google to follow her purpose, raised over $4 million when less than 2% of venture capital goes to women of color, and secured her spot on Forbes 30 Under 30 for Social Impact. In this episode, we dig way deeper than her highlight reel — into the fears, sacrifices, and the boss moves she made when the odds were stacked against her. Get ready for some real talk, major gems, and life-changing advice for every woman with a dream.& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest, Rajia Abdelaziz and grab your Invisawear with a discount using our promo code BADDIEBESTIESPODCAST!
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48
From Boston College to Besties: Friendship Breakups, Adulting, and the Trio That Survived It All
Welcome to the group chat! We’re bringing on Brittany Rodriguez to complete the original Boston College trio for the ultimate bestie reunion. From freshman-year chaos to post-grad glow-ups, we’re diving deep into the highs, heartbreaks, and healing that come with growing up—and growing together.We’re talking origin stories, friendship breakups that hurt more than romantic ones, the loss of our senior year to COVID, and the real work it takes to keep your chosen family close in adulthood. Expect laughter, maybe a few tears, and definitely some tea 🍵.Whether you’re in your bestie era or missing someone you’ve drifted from, this one’s for you—a love letter to girlhood, growth, and the group chats that never die.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest, Brittany Rodriguez!!
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47
Hey Barbie: All Things Pageantry with Miss Universe Haiti, Top 10 Miss USA & Miss Massachusetts, Melissa Queenie Sapini
In this inspiring Hey Barbie episode, we’re joined by Melissa Queenie Sapini—Miss Massachusetts USA, Top 10 Miss USA finalist, news personality, and certified queen. Melissa walks us through her journey from local beginnings to the national stage, sharing how she stepped into her power, stayed motivated, and broke barriers. Expect candid moments, motivation, and lots of bestie energy as we empower listeners to chase their dreams and rock their confidence.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest, Melissa Queenie Sapini!!
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46
Baddie Besties On The Road: Nicole Liu on Building VESTER, Burnout, and Becoming That Girl
In the first episode of our Baddie Besties On the Road series, we’re live from VESTER café with founder Nicole Liu—whose minimalist-but-vibey café has become one of the most recognizable spots in Boston. Nicole opens up about building VESTER from the ground up, navigating entrepreneurship in a city that’s not always built for creative founders of color, and what it takes to turn a personal vision into a public community. We get into everything from branding and burnout to menu design, customer connection, and staying grounded when your face is the brand. If you’ve ever dreamed of launching a space of your own—or just want the real story behind the vibe—this episode is your blueprint.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest, Nicole Liu and VESTER!!
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45
Hey Barbie: Burnout Recovery & Becoming a Psychologist with Dr. Nathalie Alexis
Barbie, it’s Mental Health Awareness Month and we’re done glamorizing the grind. We’re joined by Dr. Nathalie Alexis, PsyD— Haitian-American clinical psychologist, founder of Brookline ACC, and Boston College alum— for an unfiltered conversation every 20-something woman needs. From healing hustle culture to heartbreak recovery, Dr. Alexis gives the real talk on what’s holding us back mentally and how to reclaim our joy.She’s breaking down therapy myths, explaining how trauma shows up in ambition, and giving tools for navigating anxiety, burnout, toxic jobs, and emotionally confusing situationships. This isn’t just a check-in—it’s your mental health glow-up.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest, Dr. Nathalie Alexis !!
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44
Mom Knows Best... Or Does She? The Ultimate Mother's Day Game Show
Mother's Day is here, and we’re celebrating the incredible women who gave us life in the most epic way possible! 🏆🎉 In this Baddie Besties game show special, we’re diving into everything - from a mother's day tribute, to exposing the truth behind everything moms told us growing up, to testing your knowledge of the most famous mompreneurs, and even bringing you the best (and worst) Mother’s Day gifts out there. Whether you're a mom yourself or just honoring the one who raised you, this fun episode will have you questioning everything you thought you knew about the most powerful women on earth.Follow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois
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Hey Barbie: PCOS, Chemicals & Healthy Alternatives with Iliriana Balaj
In this empowering Hey Barbie episode of Baddie Besties, hosts Alyssa and Samira sit down with Iliriana Balaj, founder of Live Healthillie and author of Yummy Colors. Iliriana shares her transformative journey from facing unresolved health challenges to creating a wellness brand dedicated to simplifying healthy living. The conversation delves into the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare, the impact of clean living on overall well-being, and practical tips for navigating the often confusing world of health products. Join us for an authentic girl-to-girl discussion that uncovers the realities of pursuing wellness and the passion that fuels Iliriana's mission to help others live healthilyFollow our socials and tag us!!Baddie BestiesAlyssa SilvaSamira Francois& of course, make sure to check out and follow our amazing guest, Iliriana Balaj, her business Live Healthillie and her book Yummy Colors !!
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to the Baddie Besties Podcast, the unfiltered space where best friends Samira and Alyssa get real about womanhood and carving your own path in your 20s. As first-generation women, they were both raised on the “safe” blueprint of success: doctor, lawyer, nurse, engineer, etc. But when that path didn’t feel like theirs, they decided to talk about the messy in-between of feeling lost, ambitious, and uncertain, and Baddie Besties was born. What started as candid conversations about navigating life soon grew into their Hey Barbie series and reset events, The Pause Festival & Pause Pop-Ups.
HOSTED BY
Alyssa Silva and Samira Francois
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