Ladies Doing Stuff Podcast

🙌🏾 Welcome to our first live episode of Ladies Doing Stuff with your hosts, Cheram and Aamber Aleyna! We’re super excited to dive into the wild ride of being a creator and entrepreneur, especially as women of color. In this episode, we’re getting real about the highs and lows we face in our creative and entrepreneurial journeys. We’ll share the thrill of launching new projects and the tough times when things don’t go as planned. We’re also talking about the tricky business of doing favors—when it feels right to help out and when it’s better to stand your ground. Plus, we’ll spill the tea on moments we were tempted to compromise our morals to get the job done and how we handled those tough choices. Join us for a fun, honest chat that’s sure to resonate with creator entrepreneurs everywhere. Whether you’re just starting out or have been in the game for a while, you’ll find plenty of insights and laughs.

We're diving deep into the world of breakups—both romantic and professional. We've got an extra special treat for you on this episode of Ladies Doing Stuff! We're joined by our amazing friend and special guest, Chasity Saunders! Together, we'll navigate the twists, turns, and tears to find the perfect break up protocol. First things first Aamber and Cheram get real about the ups and downs of romantic breakups. From the tears to the triumphs, we're sharing our own stories and spilling the tea on how we've managed to pick ourselves up and keep moving forward. We'll share loads of practical tips for getting through heartache with grace. We're also tackling the wild ride of career shifts. With Chasity's insights and our own experiences, we're dishing out advice on how to navigate professional break ups like a boss. So grab your favorite snack, cozy up, and join us for a chat that's equal parts heart-to-heart and girl talk. Whether you're going through a breakup, a career change, or just need a little pick-me-up, this episode is packed with love, laughs, and plenty of wisdom to help you conquer whatever the year throws your way!

They say us Ladies are complex, emotional, and hard to figure out...but are we thoooooough? On more than one occasion, Cheram and Aamber have put in overtime trying to figure out what men ACTUALLY mean when they say things. When he says, "I ain't trippin" after you talk to his friend a little too long. Or when you're not dating exclusively and he says, "I'm cool it." Is he? What does he really mean? We brought in some men that are experts at being men to find out 😂 Welcome Oguike @uncleguike and Kennedy @Kingkennedyhart to the studio to drop some XY chromosome knowledge for the Ladies!

Are our bad habits really that bad? Is it too late for us to change? Cheram lives life as an i-n-d-e-p-e-n-d-e-n-t woman, and trusts no one. Aamber sees you trying, acknowledges your efforts, and reserves the right let you know it's not good enough. Is it really that big a deal? Alright, maybe life as unprotected Black women in a big city has left us with a few scars and a bit of a complex. This episode we both take a hard look in a mirror and break down our "unhelpful" habits, while we dish about the challenges that have come out of living together and confronting who we really are in the process. Follow us on IG and TikTok: @ladiesdoingstuff

Why is it that we always seem to get the apology we've been waiting for a little too late? We've already started the healing process, journaled about you, talked to our friends about every shady thing you've done and NOW you choose to write a 6-page letter with a half apology? Not that we're talking from experience or anything... Join in with Cheram and Aamber as they share their perspectives on receiving and giving apologies.  Is it ever too late to apologize? Follow us on IG, Threads, and TikTok: @ladiesdoingstuff Leave us a review and subscribe to always know when what The Ladies are up to next. 

The Ladies wanna know if there’s any good men left because our track record - more specifically Cheram’s track record - has yielded negative returns on investments when it comes to trying to find a partner.That means something is wrong with the world, right? There’s just a bunch of unloved and unhealed men who don’t know what it means to love anyone outside of themselves right? Or what if we were the problem?  Aamber and Cheram chat about the possibility that maybe we’re actually the problem when it comes to these unfruitful relationships. What if we’re choosing our partners based on the unhealed parts of ourselves? What would happen if we decided to spend our time with those who were more aligned with our goals? What do we need to do to protect our energy while dating but not lose faith in the process?  Follow us on IG, Threads, and TikTok: @ladiesdoingstuff  

"I don't know if you know this about us, but we're 30 something..." What's the difference between being in your 20s and being in your 30s? Low back pain out of nowhere and a good amount of life lessons, that's what.  Cheram and Aamber look back at their 20-ish year old selves and ask "how were you feeling then versus now?"  We've discovered a lot about ourselves: what we thought was important back then no longer is a priority, and how the decisions we made at 20 something affected us (for better or for worse) now in our 30s.  Listen to BFFs Cheram and Aamber as they take you back into time, re-living beautiful and sometimes painful memories that shaped them into the women they are today.  So, you're wondering: how do I get some of that "Mia Wine" y'all were sipping on? Don't fret.  Purchase from our girl Mia here. Your purchase of reoccurring alcohol delivery supports your favorite charities. That's cool, right?! sips Mia wine Be sure to like, subscribe, and follow your BFFs on all the platforms: IG & TikTok- @ladiesdoingstuff  Tell us what you want to hear next! ---> [email protected] / .com 

Have you ever gone out on a date and felt that instant, undeniable, irresistible chemistry? You know, love at first sight! ❤️ Yeah, neither have we. That's why we made this episode. We've put guys in the friend-zone more times than we can count. And hey, once every blue moon, they've put us in the friend-zone too. What gets us there in the first place? Your official get out of the friend-zone manual is here! Listen for yourself or for a friend *wink wink* Catch up on your favorite Ladies Doing Stuff episodes here: http://ladiesdoingstuff.co/

Ahhh, The Friendzone. We've all been there. In this live pre-show Cheram and Aamber show you all the ways NOT to land a high quality lady. For full details, listen to the upcoming episode, "How to be Friendzoned." This intro is just the beginning. Oh yeah, don't tell anyone but...the ladies have been friendzoned too. I know. Crazy right?! Who wouldn't want all of this? Let's get these guys some help 😂 Listen up, we'll spill the tea. IG: @ladiesdoingstuff www.ladiesdoingstuff.co

People change. So do friendships. This episode proves that change is uncomfortable 😅 New Years resolutions are cute but the mic don't lie! It gets all too real when the Ladies dish about their relationship, their wins, and their losses this past year. Cheram shares how she really feels about who Aamber is becoming. Aamber asks Cheram if she feels left behind. Tough questions are asked and answered this episode. Listen and let us know, can you relate? IG: @ladiesdoingstuff www.ladiesdoingstuff.co

Listen as we break girl code and chat about what ladies really want in the bedroom - Re-released for your listening pleasure. Of course, no one size fits all! Aamber has a checklist to complete before sex comes to mind, while Cheram will risk being late for work to get it in. That’s just the beginning! Learn what we expect from men during sex, and why it's important it is for us ladies to get that check-up after a reckless summer...not speaking from experience 👀😅

Awww, we missed you too! During this live show, Cheram and Aamber recap Kiss & Tell, a previously released Ladies Doing Stuff episode about black female sexuality. Learn how the Ladies view their relationship with sex then and now! Be on the look out for a re-lease of Kiss & Tell 👀

Recorded live! In keeping with the Ladies Doing Stuff Podcast tradition, Aamber and Cheram dive deep into their wins and losses for the year. No one is holding back this episode. 2021 sure didn’t! Hold on, you may need a mimosa for this one! 🥂

Did the Ladies just have a fight? The only thing harder than building relationships is keeping them. This episode Charlie & Aamber learn even their connection is not immune to the work required to maintain friendships. We've come a long way since 2016 but who knew there is still work to be done! 🤦🏾‍♀️

Dating in Los Angeles is like having a picnic on the beach. It sounded like a good idea at the time! Next thing you know the wind picks up, your towel folds in, and you have a heavy helping of sand in your guacamole. We're back from summer break to ask you all a serious question: “Should I give up on dating?” Both of us have had our fair share of dating disasters and relationship regrets, but Aamber is about 2.3 seconds away from throwing in the towel altogether. Listen to this episode to find out how we landed here in the first place and see if Charlie’s solution restores Aamber’s hope in the dating department.

"I'm not where I want to be." Is there a millennial that can't relate? If you are that millennial, can I hold a dollar? Jk. No but really - This episode we explore how to cope when great expectations of life in Los Angeles meets harsh reality. Believe it or not, it's not all bad! We've grown. We've changed. Like a lot. 2020-2021 has shown us who we are and where we want to be. Aamber learns what it means to "enjoy the journey" while Charlie learns how to "work through" personal and professional challenges instead of simply "getting past it." Turns out there's a big difference! Listen in.

Watch this episode on YouTube! If you know the Ladies, you know we are constantly in transition. The pandemic, new jobs, new relationships, new homes, it's exciting, and stressful, and...ah I just need a moment. It's a lot. We hit up Derek Lane, fellow podcaster (and big bro) to help us sort through it all. Change can be great! It could also be a train wreck. This episode we're catching up with Derek, talking about the latest changes in our lives and how to navigate them. Watch on Youtube: https://bit.ly/2OO0zA0 Listen to Last Word by Derek Lane: http://apple.co/2NsGAGG

Examples of creepy Craigslist room rental inquiry responses: These are real ⬇️"U looking sexy want to be my live in girlfriend""Are you open to a live in girlfriend situation? Free rent as long as you stay. Doesn't have to be only sexual but actually build something nice together or keep it simple. ""I don’t have a room for you, but I do have cash. Maybe we can still help each other out?" 

Hindsight is 20/20 and 2020 is not what we pictured. The politics, the protests - it literally feels like the world is on fire. Come to think of it, California is. But hey, would you believe it if I told you we've come a long way? True, the world is crumbling a bit, but we've found a way to grow through it all. This episode the Ladies flashback and listen to their 2016 episode "Drunk Politics." All while giving 2020 insight to what used to feel like dark times (little did we know! 😂).

Hear us out. 2020 is a good year! You just have to squint past the pandemic and the entire uprooting of life as we know it! *smiles nervously*  In all seriousness, we’re learning to find the lessons in all the hardships that 2020 has thrown our way. Sudden transitions, new jobs, new anxiety, and new kitchen appliances are just the tip of the iceberg for The Ladies. --Shout out to my waffle maker! 🧇  Listen to find out why 2020 has been so good to Aamber, what triggered Charlie’s biggest breakdown to date, and what to expect from The Ladies moving forward.

*ALEXA! What are feelings?* To be fair, this previously unreleased episode was made in early 2019.  Back in the day even when things weren't all COVID-Y, we were feeling so overwhelmed with a lack of emotion that we had to ask ourselves the question, "Can you feel anything?" In retrospect, we were probably depressed. So naturally, this episode consists of 30% nervous laughter. 😅However, we digress. Today, we are a in a completely different headspace but this unlocked episode offers timeless tips when it comes to dealing with (or without) emotion. In "Can't Feel A Thing" Charlie and Aamber question their capacity for connection, explain their love + communication language, and pull from the past for profound revelations.

“Death is only the end if you believe life is about you.” We brought in Death Care expert and author of “Dear Grief, You’re a B*tch,” Shannan Guillory to educate us about death from an emotional and professional point of view. We saved this episode in the vault and now is the perfect time to share it with you. Before social distancing and self-quarantine, LA was rocked by the loss of a legend. Regardless of the challenges 2020 has brought us, we're learning to celebrate life and how to honor the lives of those that are no longer with us. This is one episode you'll have to play to the end. Check out Shannan's book, “Dear Grief, You’re a B*tch” https://www.idodeath.com/book

Don't forget to watch this episode on youtube!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LrJWYw_Z8Ww

Watch this episode on Youtube!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KCeOObBOpLs

Situationships and friends with benefits are kind of the norm here in LA. Everyone is afraid of commitment and no one wants to miss out on the “perfect” partner. Swiping right for nightly thrills seems to be the new normal, but what if we took sex out of the equation? Before you roll your eyes and leave like Viola Davis, just hear us out. Charlie and Aamber dish with good friend and actress Leah Williams (as seen on Awkward Black Girl) about what it’s like being celibate in the lustful city of Los Angeles. Could celibacy really be the answer to finding a fulfilling partnership? Is it possible to just ‘hook up with no strings attached? The Ladies explore how celibacy is gaining popularity in Los Angeles and how to guard your heart when giving (or not giving) up the goods.

We've been told that we're particular, opinionated, and maybe a tad bit controlling. Of course none of this is true but if it were, this is the episode we would make to address it. It doesn't matter if you're at home, in the workplace, or in a relationship. We're all battling for more control over our lives. Some of us (Aamber) more than others (Charlie). The Ladies invite returning guest Juju from The Thousand Errors Podcast to discuss the differences between control issues in men and women, and how we can make our need for control an asset, rather than an obstacle.

You know that thing you've waited your whole life to do but never actually did? Oh, we're doing that thing today. This episode Charlie and Aamber talk one-on-one about those deep desires and wild, wild thoughts that have been buried by the weight of responsibility, full-time employment, and you guessed it...traffic. Sometimes growing up means setting aside your wildest, deepest desires, other times it means working smarter, harder, and intentionally to get them. The Ladies share their plans to live life to the fullest. ---Contrary to popular opinion, no drugs were consumed during the making of this episode 😂

"We cater way too much to other people and we need to learn how to put ourselves first." We're getting a little bit selfish this episode and you know what, that's okay! Black women have it ingrained in their character that we should serve others before taking care of ourselves. Anxiety, depression, and suppressed emotions are just a few of the many side effects of "service over self." With so much awareness of mental health and self-love these days, it's only right that we talk about how we're not here to please the world. We flew from sunny SoCal to Uptown Shots in Harlem, New York to meet up with Dina, host of Not For Everybody Podcast. Dina unapologetically shares her enlightened perspective on being the right amount of selfish, and how recognizing her anxiety and depression led her to start putting herself first. "Ladies Not For Everybody" is here to remind you that the world is going to keep spinning if you decide to do something crazy like take a few days off of work, or ignore all 7 calls from your mother. (She'll understand) Listen now to hear how Aamber, Charlie, and Dina overcame the desire to be everyone's "perfect" person, and what you need to do in order to take the first steps towards being comfortable with selfishness. Trust us, this is everything you need to hear this week. If you like what you hear, don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review. Be sure to listen and subscribe to Not For Everybody Podcast, and follow Dina on Instagram @notforeverybodypodcast. A very special thank you to Uptown Shots for the most beautiful space a podcaster could ask for! Uptown Shots is a minority-owned, full-service urban chic production studio located in the heart of Harlem, NY. Whenever you're in New York, make sure you book Uptown Shots for all of your photography and videography needs. Visit uptownshots.com and follow them on instagram @uptownshots

We’ve been working hard these last few months trying to keep it all together. Sometimes it feels like we’re going at it alone, but that’s just not reality. More Charlie and Aamber life-updates to come later this season, but for now, we’re just searching for answers! Our special guest and wellness expert Miana, reminds us that we can be our own best friend or our own worst enemy during tough times. Charlie is overjoyed when “the universe” becomes a legitimate topic of discussion for more than 60-seconds. Aamber attempts to rewire her programing to believe in the power of positive thinking. Keep your head up and your headphones on. Jokes aside, we all need this one. Learn More About Miana ⬇️ Website: https://squareup.com/store/Mianamelendez Instagram: @mianamelendez Business Instagram: @browngirlswhobruja Wellness Exclusive: “Eat Your Chakras” http://bit.ly/LadiesDoingChakras

You’ve heard America’s solution to anxiety, but we guarantee you haven't heard ours. Sure you can lay off the caffeine, look on the bright side, or take a pill, but does it ever really resolve the issue? The truth is, anxiety can revolve around one big issue or a hundred “little” pet peeves, either way it’s real. The Ladies speak on their everyday experiences with anxiety and give you some not-so-traditional ways to beat it.

“Shamone! Make that change.” No seriously. You should! This episode Charlie and Aamber sit down with our special guest Monnaa, to discuss how to make life-changing decisions. Monnaa has gone from working in DC politics to paving her own path in stand-up comedy. Natural career trajectory, right? We dive deep into the mindset that often stops us from living the life we once dreamed of. You know, back when we weren’t afraid to hope for something other than making enough to pay rent. The Ladies discuss the “why” behind the major changes they’ve made and how to stop letting fear, finances, or failure determine our path. YouTube Channel ⬇️ http://bit.ly/ladiesyoutube Local Business Spotlight: The Academy, Long Beach, CA http://bit.ly/theacademylb Follow Our Guest Monnaa Instagram/Twitter: @monnaaahh Facebook: Monnaa Ahh

Yes, we’re talking about race. No, it’s okay! You don’t have to run. The Ladies check their prejudice at the door as they disclose some surprising and not-so-surprising truths about living and loving in a city that “doesn’t see color.” Deciding which [black] hairstyle to wear to meet [white] boyfriend’s family is only the beginning. Charlie sees people, not color. Aamber sees wishful thinking. The Ladies agree that division is only a symptom of a greater issue. Put aside the need to be right, and the right to be offended so we can start to understand how prejudice impacts our livelihood, our choices, and unspoken obligations for women of color.

Ahh, To be young, gifted, and Black... in Hollywood. Charlie and Aamber are breaking into show business and they need all the dirt — I mean, help they can get. The Ladies learn the advantages and challenges that come with being a woman of color in the entertainment industry and explore the behind the scenes with Emmy nominated producer Kareem A. Cox and comedy writer, Khambi Hamis, creator of the TV show “Dropouts.” This is one episode you won’t want to miss. To learn more about Dropouts visit dropoutstvshow.com or www.indiegogo.com/projects/dropouts-tv-series#/.

We're bombarded with posts, likes, and read receipts. Staying present has never been harder. This episode The Ladies learn to let go of the ghosts of the past. Charlie comes to terms with 'unclaimed' baggage from past relationships, while Aamber learns that exes don't always make the best of friends. This one goes out to anyone grappling with the past while striving for a bright future.

"Why can't we all just get along?" We'll tell you why. This episode the Ladies discuss what's worth fighting for and how to make peace with the past. Whether you're in a new relationship or waiting in line at the store, our peace of mind is tested daily. Charlie keeps the peace by letting it all "roll off her shoulders" while Aamber seems ready to roll up her sleeves. When it comes to resolutions, one-size never fits all.

Is it better to be feared or liked? You tell us, because we're still trying to figure this one out. Whether we're giving money to strangers or time to those that don't deserve it, we often find ourselves being far too nice. But what's it all for? This episode the Ladies dive into the need women have to be liked, our efforts to be kind, and what it means to be a nice girl finishing first.

Was that “the one that got away” or did you just dodge a bullet? Innocent or not, every romantic relationship starts with a crush. Charlie & Aamber flashback to their school days to find out what it really means to “play chase.” The Ladies discuss how they’ve approached guys in a place as picky as Los Angeles and dish about their failed attempts at making the first move.

You don’t have to cry anymore, the wait is over! The Ladies return to celebrate another year of wins and growth in Los Angeles. No L’s allowed! Charlie describes her renewed passion for entrepreneurship and new-found need for type-A organization. Aamber shares what she learned about “having it all” as she continues to care less about having it at all together. The Ladies also highlight what’s new in the upcoming season and let listeners know how they can join in the fun!

Remember, "Step on a crack and break your momma’s back?" That was our first introduction to superstition, but as we get older, we realize superstition can take form as spiritual beliefs, dream interpretations, and even cultural upbringing. Is it all just “hocus pocus” or is their some truth to superstition? On Ladies & Superstition, Charlie explains her unwavering stance on “speaking things into existence,” Aamber expresses her relentless skepticism, and local Los Angelinos define what superstition means to them.

It's not polite to discuss money, they say. But honestly, where has that gotten us as a community? This episode Charlie and Aamber talk about getting set up for financial success and dive into the perceptions and harsh realities of money management in the black community. The Ladies have had their share of financial misses and money missteps, but now it's about making moves to get back on track. Special guest Ashlyee Freeman, MBA, joins the show to give insight on how to reach financial stability and to share important, must-know salary negotiation techniques for fellow millennials.

We’ve often heard that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but is that still true if I wear a natural hairstyle in corporate America? For a black woman, a hairstyle can mean the difference between getting noticed, intimidating the masses, or being ignored altogether. Forget beauty and hair care tips, this episode digs deep into what lies beneath Black hair. How we wear our hair can both alleviate (or drive) our insecurities and make a statement about who we chose to be on a given day. This episode the ladies discuss how black hair and standards of beauty can impact social interactions, our confidence, and our relationships.

How many truth bombs can we drop in one episode? We lost count. Listen to the ladies on Single AF Podcast! Host Nick Chilkov reminds Charlie and Aamber what it’s like to date in 2018, a time when finding a date IRL -In Real Life- is a thing of the past (and apparently a well-known abbreviation). The Ladies are forced to rethink dating protocol and first impressions when they discuss Nick’s Tinder date showing up late to a first encounter. Charlie, Aamber, and Nick discuss race, dating, and attraction in relationships when Nick reveals that he’s not very attracted to Black women. Lastly the ladies take on TLC's age-old question, "What about Your Friends?" when Charlie gives us the rundown on what it’s like when your introvert, Caucasian boyfriend meets your “not so shy” Black friends for the first time.

Okay America, give us a break! One minute we’re “independent women” and the next we’re “damsels in distress?” Pick one! It’s no secret, there are some serious drawbacks when it comes to being a lady in Los Angeles. How often are we expected to be seen, sometimes touched, but not heard? Being “twice as good to get half,” isn’t just a line from a TV show, it’s the story of our lives. Charlie tells us what to do when that male cashier gets a little too handsy at the corner store. The ladies explore the advantages of being underestimated when Aamber shows us how to get free coffee with a smile. Nothing is off limits when the ladies discuss their thoughts and experiences with equality… or inequality… depending on the situation. It’s complicated. Just listen, okay? We’ll explain later!

Charlie & Aamber feature on The ThousandErrors, a fellow Los Angeles podcast. The ladies dive deep into discussion with best friends Juju and Shorts about self-love and controversial gender expectations. Producer Mike drops knowledge on IRA’s, money moves, and real estate. What a journey… you won’t believe what we learned!

We all want loyalty, but does it even exist anymore? This episode we invite fellow podcaster and newest BFF Derek Lane from “Last Word Podcast” to discuss where loyalty lies and where lies begin. From mysterious 6-hour gym sessions to 3-way calls gone wrong, listen as we find simple solutions to staying loyal in two-faced times.

It’s hard to say if we’re easy to please, but let’s be honest... Will Ladies in LA ever be satisfied? Charlie and Aamber discuss their ‘perfectly reasonable, not at all unrealistic’ expectations of themselves and their ‘bare minimum, perfectly achievable’ expectations of others. Spoiler Alert*** We're completely satisfied...with everything.

“Whoever said your 20's are your easiest years is a f**king liar.” The Ladies are kicking off season 2 with an unfiltered look into self-worth and self-love. Listen as Charlie and Aamber discuss their impulsive career decisions, Inception-like nightmares, and the importance of knowing when (and how) to stand up for your worth.

While we have a lot to be grateful for, that’s not stopping us from ragging on this past year. From Aamber’s newfound IDGAF attitude to Charlie’s sage and crystal obsession, we discuss our 2017 wins and losses, and almost-attainable goals for 2018.

No time to listen to season one? Well, this about sums it up! The ladies highlight the best moments of season one and talk about what has changed - or stayed the same since starting Ladies Doing Stuff.

Forgive & Forget. Never go to bed angry. Are these relationship rules or unrealistic clichés? The Ladies debate and discuss their experiences with forgiveness...or lack thereof.