Behind the Throne

In this episode of Behind the Throne, we are joined by Sherry Waters and Dr. Staisha Hamilton to explore what a soft life truly means, especially for Black women navigating motherhood, leadership, and legacy. Together, we unpack the difference between performative self-care and embodied stillness, discuss how softness can exist in small daily increments, and challenge generational beliefs that equate rest with laziness. This conversation invites you to redefine softness as self-preservation, model it for your daughters, and practice it in community.Dr. Staisha Hamilton is a Charlotte-based social worker and movement specialist , a former classically trained ballet dancer, who integrates dance, somatic awareness, and therapeutic practice to support holistic healing and nervous system regulation. Connect with Dr. Staisha Hamilton:Perry Counseling, Healing and RecoveryWithout Words LLC [email protected] Sherry Waters is a stewardship practitioner, community chaplain, spiritual companion, and community chaplain who nurtures mind-body-spirit connection through somatic spiritual practices and her work at Pauline T. Bar Apothecary in Charlotte.Connect with Sherry Waters:The Pauline Tea-Bar Apothecary WebsiteThe Pauline Tea-Bar Apothecary IGThe Pauline Tea-Bar Apothecary FBIEnate LLC WebsiteResources mentioned:All About Love by Bell Hooks3 Anchors for Embracing a Soft Life:Soft life is not self-care! Self-care is often external and task-based. Soft life is embodied stillness: a nourished inner state where your nervous system knows when to pause.Softness happens in small, sacred increments. Three quiet minutes in your car. A protected morning ritual. A quarterly retreat. Consistency, not extravagance, builds resilience.Model softness to break the cycle. When we practice stillness in real time, our daughters see it. Soft life becomes generational healing – not laziness, but legacy.Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Dr. Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood!Connect with Us!: Podcast InstagramYouTubeCharlitta’s InstagramHelen’s InstagramSpero Hawk Coaching & Consulting

After some time away, Helen Hope Kimbrough and Dr. Charlitta Hatch return for a heartfelt catch-up that reflects growth, faith, rest, and bold transitions. In this episode, they share what’s shifted behind the scenes, from earning a doctorate and elevating Black mothers’ voices in urban education, to launching a purpose-driven consulting firm rooted in legacy and intentional impact. This conversation explores honoring your calling, embracing rest as a strategy, and evolving without apology.Resources mentioned:Spero Hawk Coaching & Consulting3 Anchors for Navigating a Season of Becoming:Finding your voice often begins in rooms where you feel out of place. When Dr. Charlitta Hatch stopped mirroring traditional educational pathways and centered Black mothers as essential voices in urban education reform, what once felt different became the very foundation of her leadership.Rest is not retreat… it is preparation. Creating intentional space for renewal through prayer, movement, reflection, and stillness allowed this next chapter to unfold with clarity, steadiness, and purpose.Depth protects both purpose and peace. Choosing fewer, more aligned commitments and honoring capacity creates room for sustainable impact, where worth is no longer measured by how much you carry, but by how intentionally you lead.Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Dr. Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood!Connect with Us!: Podcast InstagramYouTubeCharlitta’s InstagramHelen’s InstagramSpero Hawk Coaching & Consulting

Stories have the power to help us see ourselves, find courage, and imagine new possibilities. In this episode, we’re talking about creativity and representation in the arts with Charlotte-based playwright, actor, and author Lakeetha Blakeney, known as “Keetha B.”, whose original play Bessie Coleman: Fearless and Free, celebrates the life of aviation pioneer Bessie Coleman at the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. We discuss how storytelling can empower young audiences, the importance of preserving community spaces like the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library, and how bravery often begins with believing your voice matters.Lakeetha Blakeney is a Charlotte-based author, director, playwright, public speaker, and theatre educator. Her newest work, “Bessie Coleman: Fearless and Free,” will be featured at the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte.Connect with Keetha B. here:WebsiteLinkedInAudibleResources mentioned:ImaginOnChildren’s Theatre of CharlotteCharlotte Mecklenburg Library FoundationGet tickets to Bessie Coleman: Fearless and Free at the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte (show runs November 15-16, 2025)Some key takeaways from this episode include:Representation helps children build confidence and belonging when they see themselves in stories.Bravery can be quiet persistence, faith, or creativity. It doesn’t always need to look big or bold.Community spaces like libraries and local theatres nurture imagination and connection for all ages.Bessie Coleman’s legacy reminds us that courage opens doors for those who come after us.Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood!Connect with Us!: Podcast InstagramYouTubeCharlitta’s InstagramHelen’s Instagram

You might think the school your child attends for grade school is signed, sealed, and delivered based on your address, but you actually have so much more choice than that. Whether you want your children to attend public school, private school, homeschool, or somewhere in between, this episode is all about what questions to ask yourself and the prospective school’s team to make that decision. In this episode, we are joined by Jessica Hawkins, a former educator and current doctoral student at UNC Charlotte; and Imana Sherrill, Head of School at Trinity Episcopal School in Charlotte. We discuss our various perspectives in alternative school systems, how diversity and equity factor into school choice, and why learning to advocate for your child’s education is a key skill no matter which school they attend.Resources mentioned:Watch Ep. 36: Raising Kids Who Love to LearnSome key takeaways from this episode include:Every independent school has a different mission, so it’s crucial that you feel aligned with the school’s values, mission, and curriculum. The goal is to commit to the school for the full length of that school, whether it’s K-12 or K-8.If you are looking for more choice with your public schools, know that there are options to work collaboratively with your child’s teacher and school to lean into an individualized plan.There are several options for homeschooling if that’s something you want for your child. There are co-ops, homeschooling communities, and more ways to include socializing and experiential learning in your homeschool curriculum.Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood!Connect with Us!: Podcast InstagramYouTubeCharlitta’s InstagramHelen’s Instagram

When you can feel the volume of the world from shouting headlines, calendars overflowing, emotions running high, it’s easy to forget the influence we carry. Power lives in your voice, your choices, and how you show up for your people, even on the days we’re stretched thin. In this special live recording, we gathered with past guests and community leaders to ask: With all that's going on in the world, are you a woman who steps into your power - or gives your power away?Whether you’re raising littles, caring for an aging parent, or pouring into your community, this dialogue will affirm the power you already carry and challenge you to see it in new ways.Featured GuestsJamila Green – Community Engagement Manager at YWCA Central Carolinas(Episode 27. Your Vote Matters | Voting Rights, Civic Engagement, and Making Your Voice Heard with Jamila Green)Dr. Mala Freeman-Kwaku – OB/GYN at Arboretum Gynecology(Episode 16. An OB/GYN’s Perspective on Black Maternal Health With Dr. Mala Freeman-Kwaku)Kris Elle – Certified Doula & Founder of Mother of Ease(Episode 20. Preparing Black Mothers for Birth & Postpartum | Working with a Doula, Setting Boundaries, & More with Kris Elle)Linda Lockman-Brooks – President at Lockman-Brooks Marketing Services(Episode 34. Processing Grief, Letting In Your Support System, and Our Loved Ones’ Legacies | Grief Journeys Pt. 1)(Episode 35. Identity Reconstruction, Feeling Lost, and Leaving a Legacy | Grief Journeys Pt. 2)Resources mentioned:BraveWorks | Clips from the shop are from the BraveWorks YouTube channelLead Like a Superhero: What Pop Culture Icons Can Teach Us About Impactful LeadershipSome key takeaways from this discussion include:Power takes many forms, and it’s meant to be shared. Decision-making authority, information, and social capital all matter. Build power, wield it to clear paths, and share it by moving from gatekeeping to giving.Black women are the most educated demographic in the U.S., so step unapologetically into leadership in schools, corporations, and communities. When doors close, create new ones so our kids see themselves represented.Motherhood is power, in every form. From stay-at-home moms to corporate and community leadership, all choices are valid and needed. Use your voice, pass along social capital, and affirm women who have power - and those who need encouragement.Protect your power and your peace. Build the muscle of assertiveness, coach others so the load is shared, and remember: imposter syndrome fades with experience. Adjust each other’s crowns.Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood!Connect with Us!: Podcast InstagramYouTubeCharlitta’s InstagramHelen’s Instagram

Education is so important to us, from literacy and fostering a love of books to building math skills that support financial literacy down the road. That’s why we’re thrilled to bring you this conversation about education with Tracey Hope Haynes, an elementary school teacher (and Helen’s sister!), and Wanda Harding (Helen’s classmate at Hampton University), a NASA engineer turned educator and founder of Launching Leaders. In this episode, we discuss how to support your child’s learning at every stage of life, building your child’s confidence through affirmations and skill-building, and navigating technology use in the home and in the classroom.Connect with Wanda:WebsiteLinkedInInstagramXSome key takeaways from this episode include:Splitting our students’ attention spans between screens and learning is a challenge. There are a lot of digital distractions that students are facing, and it’s important to build logic and learning skills both with and without technology present.Help your students reframe making mistakes. Tracey and her students call them a “mistake masterpiece.” Of course we correct the mistake, but we reframe it in a fun way to promote confidence in the student’s ability to fix a mistake, rather than whether or not they made one.Stay engaged with your kids. Have meaningful conversations with them (yes, even when they’re little!), read to them and with them, build things together, and encourage imaginative play. There are so many creative ways to make learning a fun part of your daily routine.Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood!Connect with Us!: Podcast InstagramYouTubeCharlitta’s InstagramHelen’s Instagram

This week, we’re continuing our conversation on grief from our different perspectives, including Helen’s loss of her father, Dr. Winfred M. Hope, earlier this year; Dr. Monique Perry-Graves’ sudden loss of her mother, Carolyn Perry, in 2024; and Linda Lockman-Brooks’ loss of her daughter, Morgan Thompson, almost two years ago. In this episode, we’re discussing the concept of identity reconstruction and how our sense of selves has changed since losing our loved ones. We also talk about the weird feeling of the world continuing like normal as if you didn’t have a life-changing loss, and the legacies we hope to leave behind to honor our loved ones.Resources mentioned:Watch Ep. 35: Processing Grief, Letting In Your Support System, & Our Loved Ones’ Legacies | Grief Journeys Pt. 1Grief Is Love by Marisa Renee LeeSome key takeaways from this episode include:Identity reconstruction is the process of redefining your sense of self after the loss of a loved one, whether it was a close friend, a parent, a child, or another relative. Easing back into “regular life” is really challenging after loss. It’s okay to set the boundary that you might RSVP “yes” to something initially, then not feel up to it the day of. The people who really care about you will hold that space for you.What is the legacy you hope to leave behind to honor your loved ones? For Helen it’s immersing herself into the community, for Monique it’s leaving people and places better than she found them, and for Linda it’s infusing a zest for life and connection into everything she does.Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood!Connect with Us!: Podcast InstagramYouTubeCharlitta’s InstagramHelen’s Instagram

Grief is heavy, but it’s not something we have to face alone. In this episode, we wanted to share some different perspectives on loss, including Helen’s loss of her father, Dr. Winfred M. Hope, earlier this year; Dr. Monique Perry-Graves’ sudden loss of her mother, Carolyn Perry, in 2024; and Linda Lockman-Brooks’ loss of her daughter, Morgan Thompson, almost two years ago. While we are talking about loss, this episode is full of laughter, wisdom, and so much love, and we have more to share in part two of our conversation next week!Resources mentioned:Grief Is Love by Marisa Renee LeeSome key takeaways from this episode include:Grief is a circular experience. There are good days and bad days, and some days where the loss feels as shocking as it did the day it happened. It’s normal for there to be ups and downs on your grief journey, no matter how long it's been since your loss.It can be very tempting to isolate yourself and disconnect from the world around you when you’re in the thick of grief. Resist that temptation. Answer when your friends and family call to check up on you, say “yes” when they ask if you want to get out of the house, and show up exactly as you are. There are signs all around us that people we’ve lost are still with us in spirit. Welcome those signs when you find them, even if there are difficult feelings that come with them. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood!Connect with Us!: Podcast InstagramYouTubeCharlitta’s InstagramHelen’s Instagram

There are two gaps in the Black community, especially among those in their 20s and 30s: a marriage gap and a wealth gap. Our friend Arvia Few is aiming to bridge both of those gaps through matchmaking. Her company, DOTTIE, is a platform for young Black professionals to meet, build meaningful connections (both platonic and romantic), and settle down with someone who shares their goals and is ready to tackle them together. If you’re curious about how to promote the value of marriage and partnership to the young people in your life, this episode is for you!Arvia Few is a mother, wife, professional matchmaker, and certified science-based relationship and dating coach. She founded DOTTIE to help young Black professionals create meaningful connections, empowering them to find love and build strong, enduring relationships. Connect with DOTTIE & Arvia Few:DOTTIE WebsiteDOTTIE’s House PodcastDOTTIE InstagramArvia Few on InstagramArvia Few YouTube ChannelSome key takeaways from this episode include:Young people are craving genuine connections where they can be vulnerable. There’s a lot of judgement that can happen through the social media lens, and since they’ve grown up with phones, they’ve had a lot of distractions preventing them from making real connections.You and your spouse are the models your kids are growing up with for what a relationship looks like. Model healthy communication, show them the value of doing life with a true partner, and apologize when you have human moments and don’t get it quite right.It’s important to have clear values and expectations for a partner, like being on the same page about having kids, religious beliefs, and financial goals. But other things like how much money someone is currently making shouldn’t necessarily be a factor.Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood!Connect with Us!: Podcast InstagramYouTubeCharlitta’s InstagramHelen’s Instagram

AI has been the topic on everyone’s mind this year. From the rise of generative AI and ChatGPT to the increase in self-driving cars, it’s easy to get swept up in the news stories of AI gone wrong, but every generation has had at least one technological leap that made parents pause and teens rejoice; AI is no different. In this episode, Charlitta’s tech genius shines as she walks us through practical AI uses, how to teach your child to use it responsibly, and why embracing it will serve you and your kids better in the long run. Some key takeaways from this episode include: It’s easy to jump to villainizing changes in technology, but think about some of the advances that were made while you were growing up. Chances are these advances brought value to your day–to-day but still faced pushback from older generations. There are always going to be pros and cons to advancements, but asking questions is key. Artificial intelligence has already been a part of our lives for a long time. Things like sensors in elevator doors and faucets in bathrooms are a form of artificial intelligence that we don’t even think about on a regular basis. Every parent is going to set different parameters around technology use. You likely already set limits around screen time, but you can also set guardrails around content, monitoring their search and watch history online, and not giving them a smart phone until a certain age. Many companies and schools are creating policies around AI usage in their organizations. Rather than say “no using AI” in your home, explore where you might already be using it in your home and life, and discuss this with your kids. You and your child can explore AI usage together, and discuss the ethics and shortcomings of it as well. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

You’ve probably noticed that Charlitta and I haven’t been on the mic together in a minute, and this episode is about why: life has been life-ing, y’all! We’ve both had challenges this year with family health struggles, exciting life changes, and more. In this episode, we share how we’ve been coping with life without sacrificing our relationships, how therapy has helped us process grief, and so much more. Some key takeaways from this episode include: You get to decide what you share or don’t share about what you’re going through. Social media can put odd pressure on us to overshare, but if you want to keep your challenges to yourself or only share with close friends and family, that’s completely fine. Be intentional about taking time for yourself to practice self-care. As women, we tend to put ourselves and our own needs last, but your needs need to be prioritized, too. You cannot pour from an empty cup. Grief doesn’t only come around when someone dies. You might feel grief if a loved one has serious health issues arise, or you might even grieve the person you were before you experienced a certain hardship. All of those feelings are valid. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

Quick question: how are you feeling? A month has passed since the election, but chances are you still might be feeling anxious, uncertain, or disappointed. We’re right there with you, and so are our guests in today’s episode: Lucretia Berry, antiracism curriculum specialist and Founder of brownicity; Kristen Stegall, podcast producer and CEO of Novice Studios; and Rachel Walt, human design expert, reiki healer, and Founder of Craftingood. In this episode, these women join Helen to discuss how we’re feeling about the election results, how we’re claiming our power, and the importance of community in these next four years. Special thanks to Megan Weatherford for helping Novice Studios record this special episode! Connect with our guests! Dr. Lucretia Carter Berry | brownicity website | Instagram Kristen Stegall | Novice Studios website | Instagram Rachel Walt | Craftingood website | Instagram Resources mentioned: NBC News: Exit Polling Data from the 2024 Election AP: Florida hospitals ask immigrants about their legal status.  NPR: Inside RFK Jr.'s nonprofit's legal battles over vaccines and public health Sojourner Truth’s “Ain’t I a Woman” Performed by Kerry Washington Some key takeaways from this episode include: We need to lead with compassion and empathy. So much of the current political climate in America stems from a lack of compassion and empathy, but we can make strides to change that simply by modeling it.  Using your voice is another way to encourage change in your community and beyond. Share your expertise loudly and proudly, especially if you’re in a field where misinformation (and disinformation) are running rampant. White patriarchy is still alive and well, and it influences so many of our public institutions. So much of what we learn about patriarchy and race begins at home. How are you talking to your kids about roles and race? (Lucretia has amazing resources for this!) Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

Last week, Helen assisted her parents in Athens, Georgia with casting their vote in the 2024 election. In this episode, Helen sits with her mother, Betty Hope, as she tells the story of why this election is so historic for her and her husband, and why watching him cast this vote this year was so emotional and wonderful for them. If you haven’t yet voted, it’s not too late to vote early! Below is more info on early voting: North Carolina Early Voting Georgia Early Voting South Carolina Early Voting Some key takeaways from this episode include: If you need special assistance while voting, please ask your polling place volunteers for help. Many voting locations have curbside voting and other accommodations available. Mail-in ballots are another great option if you feel you are physically unable to vote in person. Make sure you send in your mail-in ballot by the deadline in your state. Wear your “I voted” sticker like the badge of honor it is. Your vote represents a legacy of making your voice heard, a right that your ancestors fought for. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

If you’ve been following our podcast, or know us personally, you know we are huge advocates for experiential learning and education. Since we’re all back into the swing of school, we invited our friend Alicia Hash, an award-winning elementary school principal in Charlotte, NC, to share her perspective as an educator of how we as parents can be active participants and supports of our children’s education. Some key takeaways from this episode include: Parents are their child’s first teacher because children begin learning as soon as they’re born. However, from an educator’s perspective, as soon as the child walks into the school building, the parent becomes the teacher’s partner in the child’s learning process. Make learning a non-negotiable in your home. Your children will each follow their own path, but teach them to be engaged while in the classroom and give their best effort inside and outside the classroom. Take the time to read and understand the assessments your child has taken throughout the year and how they’re performing. If you don’t understand the results, ask your child’s teacher to explain it to you. Treat this information as a growth opportunity for you and your child. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

There is a very important election coming up in November, but not everyone feels that their vote matters. In this episode, Helen sits down with Jamila Green, Community Engagement Manager at the YWCA Central Carolinas, to discuss our earliest memories and messages around voting, why we don’t take our right to vote for granted, and all the ways you can make your voice heard through community engagement. Early voting begins today in North Carolina, so make sure you get out and make your voice heard! Resources mentioned: YWCA Central Carolinas Some key takeaways from this episode include: Voting is one of the most important ways to make your voice and values heard. Every single vote counts, so even if you feel like your vote won’t sway the numbers, remember the right to vote is something your ancestors fought for. You are not just voting for the president of the United States come November 5th, you are also voting for your state and local officials, as well as important issues like transportation or education improvements to your neighborhood. There are more ways to engage with your community in addition to voting. Find ways you can get involved in local community organizations and speak up at local town hall meetings about issues important to you. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

While we're on a break this summer, we wanted to share some of our most popular episodes for you to revisit and enjoy! This was our second episode we released and y'all loved it, so we're bringing it back this week! School’s out for the summer! Even if you have some summer camps or travel plans on the calendar to keep your kids busy, there’s a lot of time left to fill with activities. In this episode, we’re sharing our best tips for keeping fun at the forefront while helping your kids learn new things and practice skills over the summer. Plus, some tried and true travel tips to keep your summer trips fun, educational, and hassle-free. A few of the tips we share for making summer fun and educational include: Don’t go the whole summer without reading! There are so many ways to make reading fun for your kids. Try reading in a different location like a tent in the living room, or act out parts of the book together like you’re putting on a play! Practicing math skills over the summer is important too. Cook up a recipe together with special attention on measuring ingredients, or incorporate counting coins into an activity or incentive system. If you’re traveling this summer, participate in activities and foods specific to where you’re traveling. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages that come with living in that city. If you’re not traveling, explore your hometown together! Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

The Behind the Throne podcast is officially one year old!! Since our first episode aired the week of Mother’s Day in 2023, we’ve released three seasons, started a YouTube channel, and welcomed amazing guests on the show. In this episode, we reflect on what we think makes the show special, our favorite episodes we’ve done, and what’s next for the show moving forward. Thank you so much for being on this journey with us as a listener and supporter! Episodes mentioned: Ep. 24 - What I Wish My Mother Had Told Me Ep. 1 - The Mothers That Shaped Our Own Motherhood Journey Ep. 20 - Preparing Black Mothers for Birth & Postpartum with Kris Elle Some key takeaways from this episode include: If you enjoy our show, it would mean the world if you shared it with a fellow mom who you know would love it too! Our goal is to continue growing the show, and the best way to do that is by sharing it! You should have role models of all ages in your life. Helen and Charlitta both learn so much from each other, and if you can find people both older and younger than you who positively influence your life, you’ll be better for it. We will be back with season four late this summer or early Fall! We’re excited to dig into topics that are very tailored to the experience of motherhood, as well as how public policies might change how we need to parent. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

After a full season of lots of amazing guests, the OG duo is back on the mic this week! In this episode, we’re discussing the book The Power of a Positive No by William Ury, which piqued both of our interests as people pleasers who tend to say “yes” when we want to say “no.” We share what it taught us about setting boundaries, trusting your intuition, healthy relationships, and more! Resources mentioned: The Power of a Positive No by William Ury Mamas, don’t forget these key takeaways!: Think about when you’re saying “yes” when you want to say “no.” Who are you trying to accommodate? How can you stay true to your no in that moment? One of our responsibilities is modeling healthy communication and boundaries for our families. It’s okay to let your kids see you and your partner disagree so they can see how to do so in a respectful way. Respect your “no.” Once you’ve said “no,” don’t turn back on it, or let people bulldoze you into saying “yes.” You can be creative about holding space to still help in a different way, but stick to your “no.” Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

In April, we were invited to be a part of a discussion called “What I Wish My Mother Had Told Me,” which centered mental health topics around the relationship between mothers and daughters. Helen led a panel of community leaders and asked them questions about self-esteem, boundaries, worthiness, and social media, and how all of these tie in to mental health.  Panelists: Helen Hope Kimbrough, panel moderator Jade Dawkins  Dr. Daisy Walker Lynn Conner, MSW, LCSW - Be & Belong Therapy, PLLC Resources: The Academy of Goal Achievers Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 or visit https://988lifeline.org/  Some key takeaways from this discussion include: Find a mantra to work through on your own and with your kids to help their self-esteem. Some of the mantras we heard from the panel were “your body is the least interesting thing about you,” and “you are worthy exactly the way you are.” Setting boundaries is so important for your mental health, and for your relationships. There’s a misconception that boundaries create distance between people, but mutually respectful boundaries actually bring you closer to your loved ones. Social media can have a huge impact on your mental health if you aren’t intentional about using it. Unfollow or mute accounts that make you feel bad about yourself, take breaks from social media now and then, and remember you’re seeing a highlight reel, not real life. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

In this episode, Helen is joined by her younger son, Avery Kimbrough. Avery is a senior at the United States Military Academy at West Point. He shares his experience of growing up with his older brother Austin, deciding to join the military at a very young age, and how his mom advocated for his learning style in a public school setting. Episodes mentioned: Episode 17: The Things I Learned From My Mom with Austin Kimbrough Some key takeaways from this episode include: Helen’s sons couldn’t be more different, but they have such a deep relationship and respect for each other that they’ve always celebrated and nurtured those differences. Not everyone is a traditional student that absorbs information easily and loves to read. Helen had to advocate for Avery to have more experiential learning in the classroom, which allowed him to excel. Avery decided at a young age that he wanted to join the military, which can be a difficult path for parents to watch their kids enter. Avery’s advice is to be strong in your faith and allow them to explore all the opportunities and resources available to them. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

Since we started our podcast, we’ve gotten questions about how we started from listeners wanting to start their own shows. So in this episode, we brought on our producer, Kristen, to share how you can amplify your voice and message through podcasting, her best tips for podcasting, and how she started her business. Kristen is a Podcast Producer and the CEO of Novice Studios, a full-service video podcast production company based in Charlotte, NC. You can learn more about Novice Studios at https://novicestudiosclt.com/, or connect with Kristen on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/novicestudiosclt/.  Some key takeaways from this episode include: Honor your season of life and go with the flow. When we feel out of control, it might be a sign to bet on yourself and take ownership of something that pushes you out of your comfort zone. People are craving connection, which is one of the reasons why podcasts are so popular. Starting a show is a great way to build a connection and help people feel seen and understood. Kristen recommends having a strong brand and strategy from the very beginning of your podcast. Know who your audience is, where they hang out online, and the topics that matter most to them. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

We are so excited to have a very special guest on today’s episode: Mark Hatch III, Charlitta’s 7-year-old son! In this episode, Charlitta interviews Mark to see just how much he knows about her, what he’s absorbing from the lessons she’s been teaching him, and his favorite things about her. Some key takeaways from this episode include: Your kids know way more about you than you might realize! They are observing your interests, your patterns, and your likes and dislikes at all times. If you’re helping your child improve at something, or there’s a lesson you’re constantly repeating to them, we promise they are hearing and absorbing it even if it doesn’t always feel like it. If you’ve never asked your kids to give you a mommy report card, we highly recommend it. Pretend you’re recording it for your own YouTube channel so you’ll have a home video you can watch back for years to come. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

Welcome to season three of Behind the Throne! We are starting off the season with a special guest, Kris Elle, a Certified Doula, Certified Lactation Consultant. Kris is the Founder of Mother of Ease, a Black maternal and family health practice that specializes in supporting Black women and their families through pregnancy and birth. In this episode, Kris shares how she empowers clients to create their vision for their birth and postpartum journeys, setting boundaries with providers and family members, and learning to ask for help when we need it. Resources mentioned: Oh Sis, You’re Pregnant!: The Ultimate Guide to Black Pregnancy & Motherhood Some key takeaways from this episode include: Birth is one of those experiences that nothing can prepare you for. Many new mothers feel a mix of bewilderment, euphoria, grief, and everything in between. All those feelings are valid! When preparing for postpartum recovery, think about what you need to have on hand or have help with. Do you need freezer meals prepared? Does a clean kitchen keep you calm? Make a list and when someone offers to help, give them something from the list. Doulas support people emotionally, physically, and often spiritually through life transitions. There are birth doulas, postpartum doulas, and even death doulas. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

When we heard the news of Dr. Claudine Gay’s resignation from her role as the first Black female president of Harvard University, we knew we had to unpack our feelings and the wounds it opened on the podcast. In our experiences as Black women, we’ve faced microaggressions, assumptions about our qualifications, and a lack of support and allyship from our colleagues. In this bonus episode, we’re covering all of that and so much more. Some key takeaways from this episode include: So many Black women know what it means to be the only double minority in the room. It’s not something to celebrate anymore; we really need to question why there is not significantly more diversity in the workplace, specifically in the highest leadership roles. Black women’s accomplishments have been dismissed because of affirmative action or DE&I, but Black women have earned their spots in their respective roles. Those programs simply get their foot in the door so they have the opportunity to showcase their qualifications. Perfection is a huge weight that Black women carry because of the expectations to be the very best so they can get in the room. They have to be twice as good as their peers just to be seen as comparable to them. Even then, there’s a fear that even one mistake can derail it all. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

Season two and 2023 are coming to a close, so in this episode, we’re counting down our top five most viewed episodes of the year! Plus, we each share our reflections from the past year and our personal and professional goals for 2024. See you in season three! Our Top 5 Episodes: #5 - Ep. 3: Mom Hacks | Habits That Will Make Your Life Easier #4 - Ep. 14: Navigating Career Changes & Identity Shifts in Motherhood #3 - Ep. 12: The Affirmative Action Ruling #2 - Ep. 6: The Challenges, Joys, and Misconceptions of Fatherhood feat. Marcus Kimbrough & Mark Hatch #1 - Ep. 1: The Mothers That Shaped Our Own Motherhood Journeys Some key takeaways from this episode include: From parenthood, to mom hacks, to Black maternal health, this podcast has allowed us to cover so many different topics in just two seasons. We hope you’ll catch up on our content while we get ready for season three! This show has also allowed us to step into a new level of sisterhood as podcast co-hosts! Even if you don’t have a podcast, I hope this show will empower you to start having deeper discussions with your friends. Reflect on this last year and set your intentions and goals that you want to manifest in 2024. We can’t wait to achieve our goals together! Leave us a comment with your goals for next year so we can cheer you on! Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

This week, we have a very special guest on the podcast. Helen’s son, Austin Kimbrough is on the mic! Austin is living and working in Houston, Texas, so while he was home for Thanksgiving, he joined Helen in the studio to share the lessons he learned from his mom, what stuck into adulthood, and what he had to learn on his own. Some key takeaways from this episode include: It was important to Helen that Austin take school seriously and put a lot of effort into it, but Austin's goal was to do the bare minimum. In retrospect, he’s grateful she was involved in the school and pushed him to put his best foot forward. Stay in tune with your child’s gifts and skills. Austin was always very expressive and talkative, and rather than train him out of that, Helen helped him hone those skills and learn to listen as well as he communicates. Absolutely do everything you can to help your children learn life skills that will serve them well, but understand there are some things they will learn on their own through lived experiences that will drive home what you’ve been teaching them all along. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

In the last episode, we shared our personal birth stories and how Black maternal health issues hit so close to home for us. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Mala Freeman-Kwaku of Arboretum Gynecology in Charlotte, NC to share her perspective on the challenges Black women are facing in the healthcare system, what’s causing the disparities, and how we can make informed decisions about our care moving forward. Dr. Mala Freeman-Kwaku is a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist with twenty years of experience in obstetrics. She is a mother of four and believes in considering the whole woman when evaluating her healthcare needs. Resources mentioned: Listen to Ep. 15: Sharing Our Birth Stories | Black Maternal Health Pt. 1 All-hands-on-deck for Black maternal health by Eugene A. Woods Some key takeaways from this episode include: There is so much information available to us about pregnancy, birth, genetic information, and everything in between, but sometimes that information can incite fear and feel very overwhelming. Personalization is missing from the healthcare system, especially OB/GYN care. If you can build a relationship with your healthcare provider, they can better assess when something’s wrong and how to advocate for your needs. Your primary care physician can take care of a lot of your health needs, but having specialized doctors like a gynecologist is important as well. A gyno will give you specific care related to hormones, family planning, cancer screenings, and more. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

You know we love to keep it light and fun on this show, but this episode is definitely a heavier topic. We are talking about Black maternal health in the U.S., as well as sharing our birth stories with each of our two children. Both of us had difficult and traumatic births, but we learned so much from these experiences that we want to pass on to our listeners. Even if you’re done having kids, there may be some parts of our stories that resonate with you and make you feel less alone. Some key takeaways from this episode include: According to the CDC, the maternal mortality rate in the U.S. in 2021 was 32.9 deaths per 100,000 live births. Among Black women, the maternal mortality rate is 69.9 deaths per 100,000 live births.  The goal of sharing our birth stories is not to scare anyone (especially first time moms!), but to educate people and let them know what can happen in labor and delivery and how to advocate for themselves. It’s so important to have someone on your birth team that is going to advocate for you. Whether that’s your OB, a midwife, or a doula, get to know your options and choose someone you trust who will show up for you. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

Motherhood inspires so many identity shifts within us, and how we approach our careers and work is certainly one of them! In this episode, Charlitta shares how she talks to her kids about her career and contributions to the family, and Helen shares her decision to stay at home when her son was sick, and what it was like to return to the workforce later on. We also discuss the concept of “work-like integration” versus “work-life balance.” Resources mentioned: Become the CEO of You, Inc. by Susan Bulkeley Butler Some key takeaways from this episode include: If you work outside the home, sometimes you’ll have days where you killed it at work and didn’t feel like a great mom, and days where you were mom of the year with a tough day at work. That’s totally normal. If you are a stay-at-home mom, you are absolutely still a working mom! Working inside the home is so challenging, and we want you to know that we see you and value you. It can be difficult not to tie your identity and self-worth to your job or your role as a mother. Sometimes the decisions we make in motherhood feel so permanent and jarring, but remember you can make a change at any time as yours and your family’s needs change. Release yourself of the impossible standards that are making you feel less than. If your family is fed, loved, and cared for, you are doing great. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

Raising multiple children is a huge gift, but it also comes with some unique challenges! In this episode, we’re sharing some parenting breakthroughs we’ve had about accommodating our childrens’ different needs, recognizing their different interests, and prioritizing quality time with each child. Some key takeaways from this episode include: It’s not only important to spend one-on-one quality time with each of your children, but also for both parents to spend time with one child as a party of three. This lets all the attention and connection be on one child for a bit so they feel seen. Your kids are their own individual people. They will have different interests, needs, and preferences, and so they may need to be parented differently. Don’t be afraid of giving your children different things. Helen’s mom gave her a journal to process her feelings, while encouraging her sister to use her analytical skills to work on electronics. It is important to acknowledge and talk about why you’re giving each child different things. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

At the beginning of the summer, we shared some initial thoughts on the SCOTUS ruling on affirmative action and promised to share more later. In this episode, we are diving into the ruling, how it’s harmful to our children and future job placement opportunities, and what it means for HBCUs. Plus, Charlitta shares how her littles are adjusting to school schedules and Helen talks about how she prepares her college-aged children for school as well. Some key takeaways from this episode include: Back to school time can be a big adjustment for both kids and parents. It’s important to get into a good routine, and stand firm in promoting accountability and responsibility for your kids. Those habits will stick with them long term. Sometimes we need to anticipate our kids’ needs, and being proactive can help them be prepared. It’s a way to love on our babies and make them feel seen and cared for. The affirmative action ruling has benefitted HBCUs (shoutout to Hampton University!) because they have made it clear that Black students will always have a place there.  The affirmative action ruling sets us back from building equitable systems, and the lack of affirmative action in colleges and universities will have an impact on the diversity of our future workforce and job placements. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

Getting your kids to eat healthy foods can be difficult, but we have some tried and true tips for raising healthy eaters that love eating fruits and veggies… even if we have to sneak them into dishes without them knowing! We hope these tips are helpful, and would love to hear your own tips in the comments on our YouTube channel! Resources mentioned: Yummy Healthy Tasties In My Tummy by Helen Hope Kimbrough & Cynthia Jackson Some key takeaways from this episode include: If you have littles that refuse to eat fruits and vegetables, sneak them in. Chop up vegetables and add them to pasta sauces, give them a smoothie packed with produce, and serve the fruits and veggies they do like, even if it feels repetitive. Expose your kids to as many different flavors and foods as possible when they’re really young, and talk to them about why it’s important to eat healthy. Connect it to something they care about, like the sports or activities they like to do.  If you can make it fun, kids will be excited to try new things. Try adding veggies as a topping for pizza, explore colorful variations of carrots and tomatoes, and have your kids help prep and cook the veggies so they’re invested in the process. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

We are back and better than ever!! In our kick-off to season two of Behind the Throne, we are sharing our summer adventures, from Charlitta seeing Beyoncé perform in Paris to Helen crossing more U.S. states off her bucket list. Grab a cup of coffee and join us for our catch-up session! Don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss any of season two!! Some key takeaways from this episode include: You need to take time to do the things you love! Go on the girls trip, buy the concert tickets, and leave the kids at home. It makes you a better mom when you prioritize yourself and pour into yourself. If you can, take a trip with one of your children at a time. As you grow your family, it’s still important to spend one-on-one time with each child to keep that bond strong. When your kids are little and with you all the time, you’re always looking for a break from them to recharge. When they’re older and out of the house, you’re hopeful that they invite you to things and want to spend time with you.  Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

In our final episode of the season, we are sharing the advice we would give to our younger selves. From body image to friendships to faith, we touch on a lot of universal truths that we feel will resonate with everyone, no matter how old you are now! P.S. That’s a wrap on season one, so make sure you subscribe to our show so you don’t miss the kick-off of season two this fall! Some key takeaways from this episode include: Embrace your body just as it is. We get caught up in comparing our bodies to others and learn what “beauty” is from media that is not diverse, inclusive, or realistic! You are beautiful just as you are. It’s not the end of the world. When you face challenges and difficulties, know that that season is temporary. Feel your feelings, but don’t allow yourself to be paralyzed by those emotions. You are never alone. You have family and friends who love you, so lean on your community when you need support. Of course we can do things on our own, but it’s so much easier and more fun with others. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

Some of the most difficult conversations we can have end up being the most impactful, and in this episode, we’re unpacking a conversation that many parents are unsure how to address with their children: race. This week, we’re sharing our own experiences of the people and events that shaped our own perceptions of race, and how you can approach the topic with your kids, no matter their age. Some key takeaways from this episode include: Reflect on your views of your own race and when you started noticing race. How old were you? Who was influencing those perceptions? Think about how your teachers, family, and friends influenced you. Make sure you provide a strong foundation and preparation at home and empower your kids with the language they need to tell you what they’re observing and feeling. Your kids are never too young to talk about race! A lot of families are scared to approach this subject with their children, but approaching these conversations directly lets them know you’re open to their questions. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

Staying connected to your partner through your parenthood journey is so important, but staying connected to yourself should be your priority too! In this episode, we’re sharing our tips for getting back in touch with yourself as you go through life transitions, and how to keep that spark and connection alive with your partner through it all. Some key takeaways from this conversation include: We tend to put ourselves last, but we need to put our own oxygen masks on first. Finding your identity and what makes you you is crucial for staying connected to yourself and your loved ones. Set and be firm with your boundaries. Your family may pout about it and may not always understand, but give them some space and let them see the results of you holding space for yourself. Your needs as a mom and as a woman will change in different seasons of life. When you’re connected to yourself, you’re better at recognizing and communicating those needs so your loved ones can support you. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

This is such a special episode because we are joined by our husbands - Marcus Kimbrough and Mark Hatch! Father’s Day is just around the corner, so we are talking about our relationships with our own fathers, the challenges and great joys of fatherhood, and what we wish the media knew about Black fathers. Resources mentioned: Episode 1: The Mothers That Shaped Our Own Motherhood Journeys Some of the key takeaways from this episode include: Fathers who instill confidence in their children (especially daughters!) and validate their feelings and strengths, raise children who don’t seek that validation in others.  Mark’s intention as a father is to be present with his kids. He loves when his kids are excited to be around him and play with him because they know he’s going to show up fully for them and with them. Marcus shares that one of the challenges of fatherhood is being a parent more than a friend. There’s nothing wrong with being a friend to your children, but at the end of the day you have to make the tough decisions to make sure you’re raising your kids to become strong adults. In our experience, we’ve seen Black fathers showing up for their families and being present in their homes and their communities. We wish people knew how engaged Black fathers really are and the example they’re setting for their children. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

There have been so many conversations about representation over the last few years, but sometimes we miss talking about the significance of representation in children’s books. In this episode, we’re sharing our journey to becoming authors and publishers of multicultural children’s books to help our children expand their views of the world and become strong, excited readers. Resources mentioned: Helen’s Publishing Company - AK Classics, LLC Charlitta’s Me3 Project & Black Boy Joy Book Series Some key takeaways from this episode include: Both of us felt called to write racially and culturally diverse children’s books after we struggled to find them for our own kids. We not only wanted more stories with characters that looked like our children, we wanted to share stories that represented multiple races and cultures. There is cultural significance to empowering our children with reading skills and encouraging them to love the experience of reading. Instead of using reading as a punishment, make it a fun experience for your kids. Our children are observing and making their own inferences about themselves and people who look like them whether you are talking to them about it or not. Showing them positive stories with diverse representation can help them make positive inferences about themselves and the world around them. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

We’ve all heard the phrase, “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” This phrase rings true in all areas of life, including motherhood. Networking allows us to build strong interpersonal relationships that lead to friendships, professional connections, and trusted partners to look out for our kids when we can’t be with them. In this episode, we’re sharing our top networking tips and our personal philosophy on sharing the gift of connection. Resources: OWN Spotlight: “Post-Traumatic Slave Syndrome” Some key takeaways from this episode include: Networking is all about connection, and it’s a skill you can build over time. Ask people their names (and remember them!), get their birthday to set up a recurring checkpoint with them on that day, ask about their families, and look for things you have in common. As working women and mothers, it’s crucial for us to have people in our circle that we trust to help us and guide us when we need it, and who know we will absolutely help them as well. We should not gatekeep our connections and relationships. Don’t hide the people and opportunities that you value, and proudly and openly share them with others. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

As busy moms, we are always looking for ways to make our lives easier and take some things off our plates. In this episode, we’re sharing the mom hacks that have helped us stress less and spend more time on the things that matter to us and to our families. Just a few habits in your daily, weekly, or monthly routine can do wonders. Let us know what your mom hacks are in the comments on our YouTube channel! A few of the hacks we share in this episode include: Outsource what you can. Have a house cleaner come to your home once a quarter, once a month, or whatever suits you. Utilize grocery delivery or even food prep services for a few dinners a week.  Are your mornings rushed and stressful? Prep the night before by packing lunches and backpacks, setting clothes out, and even having grab-and-go breakfast options. Whatever the hectic time of day is for you, plan and prep ahead to add some ease to your day. What do you personally need to feel better during the day? Do you need quiet time by yourself in the mornings to reset? Do you need to workout daily? Have a lunch date with yourself every day? Identify those things and carve out time for them. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

School’s almost out for the summer! Even if you have some summer camps or travel plans on the calendar to keep your kids busy, there’s a lot of time left to fill with activities. In this episode, we’re sharing our best tips for keeping fun at the forefront while helping your kids learn new things and practice skills over the summer. Plus, some tried and true travel tips to keep your summer trips fun, educational, and hassle-free. A few of the tips we share for making summer fun and educational include: Don’t go the whole summer without reading! There are so many ways to make reading fun for your kids. Try reading in a different location like a tent in the living room, or act out parts of the book together like you’re putting on a play! Practicing math skills over the summer is important too. Cook up a recipe together with special attention on measuring ingredients, or incorporate counting coins into an activity or incentive system. If you’re traveling this summer, participate in activities and foods specific to where you’re traveling. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages that come with living in that city. If you’re not traveling, explore your hometown together! Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

To kick off our podcast and Mother’s Day weekend, we are honoring the mothers and mother figures in our lives who have shaped our motherhood journeys. From the generational influences of grandmothers to the support of sisters and aunties, we’re celebrating the women who have impacted us, our children, and everyone around them.  Some key takeaways of this episode include: How is your family modeling what it means to celebrate mothers and treat them like queens all year round. Your kids are looking to the adults around them to set the example of what this looks like!  Take some time to reflect on how mothers have shaped you as a person and as a mother yourself. Not just your own mother, but your grandmothers and mothers-in-law - how have their stories shaped you? Our challenge to you is to call the mother figures in your life - your mother, grandmother, sisters, aunties, cousins, friends - and tell them how much you value and love them. Give them their flowers while you can. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram

Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram