Thick & Fabulous

An estimated 190,000 to 1.2 million African Americans live with severe visual impairment — a reality we rarely talk about.In this episode, I sit down with Lexington native Nezel Daugherty as she opens up about losing her sight later in life and the strength, humor, and resilience that carried her through that transition.Her journey is powerful, tender, and deeply human.Tune in to hear Nezel’s story — one of courage, adaptation, and redefining what it means to keep moving forward.

It weighs on me how far we’ve drifted from sitting at the feet of our elders, listening, learning, and letting their stories shape us. Our elders carry decades of lived wisdom, yet so many leave this world without ever being asked to share even a fraction of what they know.In this conversation, I sit down with three phenomenal women who have shaped my life — Mrs. Debora Logan‑Lawson, Mrs. Janice Jackson, and Osunnike Anke — to talk about what it really means to grow older, to nurture friendships, to date in this season of life, and to walk as the living, breathing dreams of our ancestors.

Recently, I sat down with LaTonya Robinson, owner of Velvet Leaf Concierge, to explore the unique perspective women bring to cigar culture and to learn more about her distinctive concierge service that blends sophistication, community, and passion for the craft.Women are increasingly making their mark in the cigar world, reshaping what has long been considered a male-dominated culture. Trailblazing entrepreneurs like twin sisters Yvonne and Yvette Rodriguez, founders of Tres Lindas Cubanas—the first Black woman-owned American cigar brand—are leading the way. Other influential figures include Maya Selva (Flor de Selva), Ines Lorenzo-Gomez (co-founder of La Flor Dominicana), and Janny Garcia (My Father Cigars). Beyond brand ownership, women such as Shirley Mlennon, who runs Fire and Smoke Cigar Parlor, highlight the growing presence of female leadership across the industry.

Stepping into Year 3 of producing the Fit For Fashion Show—a celebration of transformation, resilience, and radiant confidence. This empowering event shines a spotlight on incredible men and women who’ve boldly embraced their weight loss journeys and emerged stronger, prouder, and more fabulous than ever.I recently sat down with 2024 HAUTE Model and Designer Jennifer Noran, along with this year’s Confident Model Angela Berry, to hear how the show has shaped their lives and ignited their self-belief. Their stories are raw, inspiring, and a testament to the power of community and self-love. Tune in—you won’t want to miss these voices

Alexa, Find My Therapist has been a thriving resource in Columbus, OH for five years—and now, thanks to its visionary founder Ashley Browning, the movement has arrived in Lexington, KY. Ashley has curated an empowering experience designed to help people of color connect with therapists of color through dynamic panel discussions, therapist “speed-dating,” and more.🎧 Tap in to learn how this transformative event is creating space for healing, connection, and culturally attuned care.

Many don't know that you can dial 988 when you are feeling suicidal, or someone you know is feeling suicidal, or you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress. I sit down with Darcy Miller of New Vista and Kentucky Supreme Court Chief Justice Debbie Lambert to discuss how it can help you and your loved ones in a critical time of need.

Here’s a refined version of your description with improved flow and clarity:As part of the 250Lex celebration, Lexington and its neighboring counties will experience a captivating fusion of Indian Classical, Jazz, Blues, dance, and poetry—a true Music Theory 101 in action!I had the privilege of sitting down with Lakshmi Sriraman of Shree School of Dance, who has meticulously curated and choreographed this event. In a remarkable return to the stage, she will be coming out of retirement to perform. Additionally, I spoke with Lee Carroll, accomplished musician and co-founder of Green Room Exchange, to delve into the inspiration behind this collaboration.Join us on Saturday, June 14th, at 7 PM at the historic Lyric Theatre, located at 300 E. Third St., Lexington, KY, for this unforgettable evening of artistry and cultural celebration.Secure your tickets now at www.greenroomexchange.org.

Cheers to 250Lex: It’s Showtime! In this special episode, we sit down with retired teacher, director, and owner of Uniqueness Unlimited Models and Production, Mr. William Parris, alongside model, realtor, and Airbnb host Nicole Seals, to explore the vision behind this extraordinary showcase.From curating models and designers to bringing the production to life, Mr. Parris shares how the 250Lex vision blossomed into a grand celebration of style and creativity. Nicole reflects on her journey back to the runway, revealing what it’s been like to step out of retirement for such a momentous occasion.This episode is a deep dive into artistry, passion, and the legacy of Lexington—because what better way to honor 250 years than with fashion that tells a story?

Every woman will experience it at some point. Some earlier in life, some later, but rest assured, it will happen. What am I talking about? Menopause. I got together some of Lexington's experts: Dr. Deidra Beshear, Dr. Juliana Hauser, and Sex Educator Ashley Browning, on the subject of menopause for a panel discussion. We talk about spirituality, sex, hormone replacement therapy, the symptoms we don't know or talk about, and so much more.

Sober Living Pt. 3 is with the neighborhood presidents. I talk with of the William Wells Brown/Eastend community, with Mr. & Mrs. Robert & Vivian Hodges, and from the Georgetown Rd community Ms. Rolanda Woolfork, and Rev. Dwight Lewis who is a recovering addict.Mr. & Mrs. Hodge share their perspectives as neighborhood association presidents and as the largest rental property management companies in Lexington. Rev. Dwight Lewis shares his story as a recovering addict of drugs and alcohol and his work with those living in sober living homes.

I sit down with Lexington Community Leaders, District 1 Councilman Tyler Morton, Kentucky State Representative George Brown, and Rev. Jaques Wigginton to further discuss the eving homes in Lexington

I might CeiCoya in December 2024 at a cigar lounge. She was just coming from launching her wine brand, Coy Wine Collection in a new location. She sat down next to me and the next thing you know, we were talking about life, wine, and clothes! Coy Wine Collection is out of Louisville, Ky. Coy Wine Collection is a woman-owned, black-owned wine brand. Tune in for this wonderful conversation!

I sat down with an amazing young lady (21 years old, to be exact), Myka Jackson, to talk about an organization she has built. It's called Building H.E.R.( Honorable. Educated. Respectable). It supports girls from elementary school all the way to college. Sit back and take a listen. Then, join the Parent Advisory board and enroll your daughters.

15 out of 208-210 homes in the Highland neighborhood are sober living homes. Unbeknownst to us all the Oakwood Estates neighborhood is experiencing a surge of sober homes. I sat down with the neighborhood presidents; Stephanie Sobleski and Lori Hornsby of the Highlands subdivision, and Rev. Leon Slatter of the Oakwood subdivision. Community leader Rep. George Brown. Former councilman Jacques Wigginton.

I sit down with Dr. Tonya Campbell, PhD, LCSW, C-DBT as we talk about DBT-Dialectic Behavioral Therapy and how she is using this method of therapy to help our children now. DBT is a structured, evidence-based treatment that helps adolescents learn to cope with and change unhealthy behaviors. Contact Dr. Tonya Campbell: Bluegrass Counseling & Trauma Services 503 Darby Creek Rd Suite C Lexington, KY 40509 · 501 Darby Creek Rd Suite 39A, Lexington, KY 40509 

I sit down with Asona McMullen, one half of the dynamic duo (Amber Anthony is the other half) of Black Children In Books to talk about reading to our children. Not only learning to read but to actually comprehend what they are reading. Listen in as we talk about including ALL children in the joy, bonding and fun of reading. Black Children In Books: Email: [email protected] IG: blackchildreninbooks Website: http://blackchildreninbooks.org/ Black Children's Book Week in 2025 is Sunday, February 23 to Saturday, March 1. BCBW is a week-long celebration that takes place on the last Sunday in February each year. 

I sit down with CJ Carter who is the founder and CEO of Sharp Futures Foundations. Sharp Futures mission is to empower young men in middle schools by providing a unique space where they can receive mentorship, counseling, and a fresh haircut. Contact Sharp Futures Foundations: www.sharpfutures.org

I had the wonderful opportunity to sit down with Lexington's own Ieasha Allen. She will proudly tell you she is a mother and wife first but walks in with her purpose as an entrepreneur. Listen in as we talk about how she does it by respecting her boundaries and living out her dreams.

I sat down to talk with Enid about her journey with Ovarian Cancer. We talk about how she found out, her treatment plan, women's risk and so much more. Enid shared during our conversation, "I said off air that getting the ovarian cancer diagnosis was a gift.Going through surgeries and chemo the year I turned 50 was not on wish list.  But during the hardest event of my life, I learned about love.Love from community, from family, my husband and son.  They carried the biggest burden of caring for me.  I got clarity.  Cancer broke off my edges, and made me comfortable in my skin.  My heart expanded.  I learned to accept limitations and find grace, for myself and others.  I'm 3 years "no evidence of disease" and grateful beyondwords for all I learned through my treatment and surgeries."

THIS SHOW IS NOT SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN! IF YOUR CHILDREN ARE NEARBY PLEASE SEND THEM TO PLAY. AN ADULT CONVERSATION IS ABOUT TO HAPPEN! Part 2 of our 2 hour discussion about sex and it only gets better!!!

THIS SHOW IS NOT SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN! IF YOUR CHILDREN ARE NEARBY PLEASE SEND THEM TO PLAY. AN ADULT CONVERSATION IS ABOUT TO HAPPEN! I sit down with some of Kentucky's BEST sex therapists; Dr. Juliana Hauser, and Dan Ellenberg. Sexologist; Brittany Briscoe, Intuitive Body Worker; Deneise Woolfolk, and Minister; James Henderson to have an open and honest discussion about SEX. This wonderful discussion was held at Lexington's Night Kitty Karaoke Bar. This setting was chosen because that is how you sometimes meet someone in a bar and take them home and BAM! Turn your listening ears on for Talk Dirty To Me Conversations: How Does It Feel? Part 1

Did you know that there are 150 different types of HPV? Did you know that 80 million people in the U.S. will have a type of HPV in their lifetime? Did you know that types 16 & 18 can cause cervical, anal, and throat cancer? This is the story of Chablis Murray, my childhood friend who is currently in remission from Perianal HPV Cancer. A rare colorectal skin cancer. Listen in as she is very vulnerable about her journey.

Healing can come in many forms—therapy, setting boundaries, and through the movement of energy. I sit down with Master Reiki Practitioner Deneise Woolfolk to discuss the power of reiki. Deneise explains what reiki is, how she creates a safe space for you to feel safe being open to shift your energy and possibly remove some blockages you may be experiencing. Want to give reiki a try contact Deneise Woolfolk at Subtle Energy Massage, LLC (859) 334-1015 www.subtleenergymassage.com

I sit down with my big sister Erika McMurry and talk about life as a single mother of a special needs daughter, Jameicka and her two other children Daveion and DeA'dre, who are perfectly healthy. Erika talks about having to raise Meicka alone, finding out about her diagnoses of 13th Ring Chromosome Abnormality. Jameicka wasn't expected to live past the age of 1 and she will be turning 35 soon. Ericka is doing this all while battling her own health issues. Follow Erika and Jameicka's journey on: Facebook : A Miracle Called Jameicka and Nzuri's Journey.

Within the African American community colorism is a big deal. Not only was it meant to further tear our culture apart as slaves with the lighter skinned slaves doing domestic work, while the brown and darker were lent to manual labor; it has continued today. I sit down with Daikerra Sweat a discuss how her beautiful dark complexion wasn't always viewed as such by herself and others.

I sit down with my Spiritual Godmother Osunnike Anke as we discuss her play And...I Love You Richard. It is a play about domestic abuse and the lasting effects it has on the family of the victims and the abuser himself. It is an amazing play.

I sat down with Melody Radford, the Client Services Coordinator for AVOL of Kentucky to have an in-depth, eye-opening conversation about the raise of HIV/AIDS in the African American community, especially among African American women. AVOL helps individuals navigate to permanent and stable housing, medical care, health screenings, prevention medication, and social supports PLEASE KNOW YOUR STATUS!!! GET TESTED! not just for HIV/AIDS but other STI's. Contact AVOL or visit at: 1824 Hill Rise Drive, Suite 100Lexington, KY 40504 PH.859.225.3000TF.877.225.9245FX.859.225.9244

You are about to listen to part 2 of the Talk Dirty To Me Conversation Series How Do You Want It? with the men only. I sat down with the distinguished gentlemen Sex Therapist Dan Ellenberg and Minister James Henderson at Leaf & Barrel Cigar Lounge to have a conversation about sex.

I sat down with 2 of my favorite female DJ's, DJ Erin Greene and DJ Quinnette Connor to talk about being a female in a male dominated music industry, vibing with the crowd, being a multifaceted DJ, how female rappers are dominating the music industry and their controversial lyrics. Book Them: DJ Green: FB: DJ Green IG: @djgreen30 Twitter: @djgreen28 Email: [email protected] DJ Quinnette: FB: Quinnette Connor IG: @quiinnette Website: quinnette.live

*Some content may not be suitable for small children* It is often stated that a parent isn't supposed to bury a child, the child is supposed to bury the parent. However, sometimes the Universe and the Higher Power have different plans. Unfortunately, this is a life experience of Alisa Hairston who lost her 17 year old son, Berkley Parks to gun violence here in Lexington,Ky. Listen to her story as she recounts the day Berkley's life was taken and how she is living life now without her only child.

THIS SHOW IS FOR MATURE AUDIENCES ONLY! The sound quality is not the greatest as it was a LIVE show being recorded. Talk Dirty To Me is part 1 of the Thick & Fabulous sex conversations. We kicked things off with the ladies. A room with over 40 women in attendance talking about sex. Their sexual desires, body image, understanding your body, pleasure, and so much more. My panel consisted for Sex Therapist Dr. Juliana Hauser, Sexologist Brittany Briscoe and Intuitive Bodyworker Deneise Woolfolk. Take a listen!

This is hands down one of my favorite interviews. Learning so much about placenta encapsulation, the different ways it can be done, lotus births, water births and so much more. What made it even more special is that I go to do it with my friend Anihhya Trumbo. Anihhya is a Doula, Massage Therapist and Placenta Encapsulation Specialist. Listen in for this amazing interview. If you would like to learn more about her services she can be found here: Instagram: Doula_Anihhya Facebook: Lovely Offerings Doula Service For a Massage: Regular or Prenatal she is located at Malama Massage Center Bakhaus building, 1500 Leestown Rd # 338, Lexington, KY 40511

Sadly, our children today are experiencing trauma at a very young age. There are children 5-7yrs old committing suicide. Not to mention gun violence, police brutality, video games, and even in the music. Our babies are becoming desensitized to death. Today, I had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Lauren Downey the owner of The Trauma-Informed Counseling Center, also known as TICC. Dr. Lauren is an well trained in this field and our conversation was truly amazing If you or someone you know has experienced trauma please seek help or contact Dr. Lauren. The TICC Trauma-Informed Counseling Center, LLC 80 Codell Dr. Unit 230 Lexington, Ky 40509 OR 713 Millpond Rd Suite B-3 Lexington, Ky40514 (859) 309-2877

We go back at least 10years. She was the owner of an all women's gym called Flourish. I was beginning my journey then as a Zumba instructor. Fast forward 10 years and she is now the owner of Tara M Stewart Professional Organizing. Sit down and enjoy this delight conversation with Tara about organizing your life as it pertains to your home. We talk about letting things go, why people hold on to things and how you don't need more things to organize the things you already have. Tara M Stewart Professional Organizing Website: taramstewart.com Instragram: @taramstewart Facebook: Tara M Stewart-Professional Organizing

Believe it or not prom can cost anywhere from $900-$1000 and up. Having the privilege to go to prom is not given to all. Not because they don't want to go, but because they can't afford to go. Lex Project Prom gives teens the FULL experience of preparing for prom. Picking the dress or tux, getting the accessories, shoes, hair and nails done. Don't forget about the ticket, food, and transportation. Tune in as I talk to founder and owner Asona McMullen about Lex Project Prom Lex Project Prom: Website: LexProjectProm.org Email: [email protected] Facebook: Lex Project Prom

I sat down with Rader Bolling, who had been a CASA volunteer since June 2022 and is now is the DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION COORDINATOR and Ben Kleppinger, who was the Community Engagement Coordinator and is now the Director of Communications. We talked all about what CASA of Lexington does for the community and how you can be a volunteer. Website: wwcasaoflexington.org/training Apply to be a volunteer at: casaoflexington.org/apply

Did you know that there are 3,000 different hair brands? Did you know that wigs & extensions were valued at 7.7 billion dollars in 2022 and expected to reach 15.7 billion by 2032! Tune in as I talked to Master Cosmetologist and The Dollhouse owner Ieshia Ford. She is a phenomenal wig maker here in Lexington, Ky. Find Ieshia here: Website: yourfavoritedoll.com Facebook, TikTok and Instragram: @thedollhouselex

Baes & Bourbon is the final conversation in the Thick & Fabulous Conversation Series. We began with the ladies in Cocktails & Conversations in April. Then in September we focused on the men with Cigars & Conversations. Now, it is time to bring the men and the women together for a conversation about love, sex, relationship( romantic and friendships), trauma and so much more. Listen in with my panel of Joy Bolton-Berry, Dr. Lauren Downey, Dr. Jai Gilliam and Bishop Carter IV.

Baes & Bourbon is the final conversation in the Thick & Fabulous Conversation Series. We began with the ladies in Cocktails & Conversations in April. Then in September we focused on the men with Cigars & Conversations. Now, it is time to bring the men and the women together for a conversation about love, sex, relationship( romantic and friendships), trauma and so much more. Listen in with my panel of Joy Bolton-Berry, Dr. Lauren Downey, Dr. Jai Gilliam and Bishop Carter IV.

It is often said that this generation is different. Honestly speaking, they are. Our youth today have experienced more gun violence, and death than most of us that have been blessed to see our 40's. I sit down with community activist and director of One Lexington, Devine Carama to talk about ways we can save our youth and how the community plays a role and can help. Donate to the Believing In Forever Coat Drive: Cash App - $BelievingInForever Venmo - BelievingInForever PayPal or Zelle - 859-303-2637 Check - write to Believing In Forever Inc. and mailed to 209 Castlewood Drive, Lexington, Ky 40505  WE ARE A 501c3!!!! **Or drop off BRAND NEW coats of all sizes to the Andrews Center at Consolidated Baptist Church, Monday through Friday from 9 am - 4:30 pm!  Email [email protected] for more info!

Oh what a marvelous day was had! A safe space was created at Canonero's Cigar and Bourbon Bar for grown men to talk about the things they need, want, and feel. We tackled the hard discussions of erectile dysfunction, finances, masculinity, and how men interact with women. This is the 2nd of a 3 part series. Our panel consisted of Rev. Daniel Lee, LCSW Dr. Jai Gilliam Rev. Michael Jackson Lezell Lowe

Sound Healing is an ancient healing method that is quickly becoming a new alternative way to do healing work. I love how CJ describes it as,"The cheat code to meditation". Listen in as I talk with Sound Healer, who happens to be my cousin, Christine "CJ" Jackson as we discuss the benefits of sound healing, how to find the right sound healer for you and the different methods of sound healing. You can find CJ here at: IG: healingsoundsibds Website: healingsoundsibds.com

We aren't talking about my boudoir silly, but we are talking about how there has been a boom in boudoir photography since the pandemic. Women have taken to loving the skin they're in to a new level. Embracing their curves, stretch marks, cellulite, and raising our body positivity. Tune in as I talk to Lexington's Premier Boudoir & Wedding Photographer, Michelle Franzetti, owner of Franzetti Photography and Franzetti Bellissima Lingerie. Michelle Franzetti Franzetti Photography 214 W. Maxwell St. Lexington, Ky. (859) 588-0762 franzettiphotography.com

There are other ways to be intimate with someone other than through intercourse. Take your person on a date, hold their hand, kiss, get to know them. Authentically. Become intimate with their mind before their body and watch how the sex changes. Today I sat down with Sexologist, Brittany Briscoe who is the Owner of Intimacy Out Loud and Intimates by Intimacy Out Loud. I promise this is a must listen to and share episode. Intimacy Out Loud contact info: Website: calendly.com/intimacyoutloud IG: @intimacyoutloud YouTube: https://youtube.com/@intimacyOutLoud Email: [email protected] FB: Intimacy Out Loud

This will probably be one of the most inspiring stories you will every listen to(or least it should be). I had the most amazing opportunity to sit down with Ms. Ashley Holt who is thriving and living with kidney disease. Ashley is in need of a kidney and has been on the kidney donor list for 3years. Listen to her story and maybe even consider being a kidney donor. To see if you are compatible for Ashley or anyone else click the links below: UKY - https://ukhealthcare.uky.edu/.../living-kidney-donor... UCincy - https://uchealth.donorscreen.org/register/now

Did you know that 4 to 5% of the people living in the United States are polyamorous? That's 1 million people. Polyamorous involves the practice of engaging in multiple romantic(and typically sexual) relationships with consent of all people involved. Polygamy is the practice or custom of having more than one wife or husband at the same time. Listen in as I talk with Wali & Tiffany El-Amin and Ashley Johnson as they discuss openly and honestly about the ins & outs of their throuple. We talk about how they handle jealousy, how they got into this lifestyle, how it effects them financially, and how communication is everything.

We hardly ever talk about it even though we know it will happen to us all. Furthermore, we in never really prepare for it either. Death. Today I talk with Primerica Agent LaRonda Clay about getting your affairs in order with life insurance and leaving a financial legacy for your loved ones.

Kidney Disease is the #8 cause of death in the U.S. More than 1 in 3 kidney failure patients living in the United States are African American. Diabetes is the number one cause of kidney failure. It causes nearly half of all cases of kidney failure in the United States. African Americans get diabetes more often than whites. Today I talk with Arlene Herring, Executive Director for the Kidney Alliance Health of Kentucky about how kidney disease is affecting our community, the signs and symptoms and prevention.

I brought back Tarra & Tiffany to have an in-depth conversation about homeschooling from elementary to high school. We talk about why they both decided to homeschool, how they come up with their curriculum, socialization of their children and so much more. Tune in and let me know what you think.

Being a mother can be one of the most exhilarating and daunting experiences in your life. However, being a single mother brings on a whole different experience as well. The good news is The Mobile Mission Experience can meet you were you are literally. A group of women got together to form this wonderful non-profit to help single mothers and families in the Lexington community. I sat down with one of the founders Mrs. Natalie Mims to learn more about the Mobile Mission Experience. Tune in and learn and maybe you would like to donate or volunteer! The Mobile Mission Experience Email: [email protected] Facebook: Mobile Mission Experience