Given Name

In this episode, I sit with one of my line sisters 💙💛🐩, Cynithis (@cyncynsation), for a reflective conversation about heritage, naming traditions, and the legacy carried through family names. We talk about shared first-name syllables across generations, what it means to continue—or break—those traditions, and how identity stretches beyond what we’re called. Thoughtful, slow, and full of quiet wisdom, this episode is one that stays with you.

In this episode, we sit with Da’Joya Barnes Majors—better known as Joy—a mother, wife, social worker, professor, coach, and someone who truly embodies her name. She shares the story behind Da’Joya, why Joy is the name that stayed, and how she’s grown into a life full of purpose, care, and brightness. A warm conversation about identity, calling, and becoming who you were named to be.

In this episode, we sit with Stacya, a college student and mother whose name carries intention and history. She reflects on the story behind her name, her family’s roots in Ohio, and how those connections shaped her identity. From nicknames to naming her own child, she shares why choosing a meaningful name matters—and how legacy continues through the next generation.

We sit with LaKeicha (@only1Keesh)—an RN and proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho💙💛 —who has always embraced being different. She reflects on what it means to grow up with a name that stands out, the importance of correcting people when they mispronounce it, and why names should never be softened or “white-washed” for the comfort of others. From her unforgettable middle name Korvette to the intentional naming of her daughter, this conversation explores identity, culture, and the power of fully owning your name.

In this episode, we sit with a mother (@tellmetelly) who views her own name as something that moves under the radar—and how that perspective shaped the intentional way she named her children. Through her voice and growing online presence, she reflects on identity, cultural pride, and why we should never diminish the meaning behind our names to make others comfortable.#BlackNames #NameMeaning #IntentionalParenting #BlackCulture #Podcast #Name

We sit with Joy (JoyyMeetsWorld)—a woman whose life reflects the name spoken over her. Raised in the Bible Belt Midwest, she shares how names can shape identity, becoming a kind of confession we grow into. From her vibrant spirit to her socially conscious work in travel and community, this episode reflects on joy, responsibility, and honoring the spaces our ancestors fought to protect.

In this episode, we sit with a story shaped by love and legacy. Our guest (@Layyy_Lunaaaa) reflects on being named after her father, the deep admiration her parents have for her, and how that same care carries into the way she loves her own daughter. From childhood nicknames to a family business named in her honor, this is a warm conversation about being cherished, chosen, and rooted in family pride.

In this episode of Given Name, we sit with Miles, a soulful, family-oriented friend who believes deeply in staying true to yourself. Miles shares reflections on identity, loving the name you carry, and the importance of doing the work — in school and in life. With honesty and humor, he offers encouragement to young men: stay focused, do your homework, and trust your path. It’s a thoughtful conversation about growth, integrity, and the values that shape who we become.

In this episode, we sit with Antonique (@heyniquev) —a lively storyteller from P.G. County with roots in both Black American and Jamaican culture. She shares memories of her upbringing, what it means to carry a version of her mother’s middle name, and the pride of being “Lil Ant,” the daughter of Big Ant. We also talk about eldest daughter energy, intentional identity, and why she insists that romantic partners never use her nickname. As the host of the Redefining Wellness podcast, Antonique brings humor, honesty, and depth to a conversation that reminds us her name—meaning priceless and invaluable—fits her perfectly.

In this episode, we sit with Leah (@Leah.M.Forney) and explore the biblical roots of her name, what it means to carry that story, and how it shapes identity. We also unpack the unspoken weight of being a high-functioning eldest daughter—especially within Black culture. Honest, layered, and affirming, this conversation makes space for faith, responsibility, and the quiet strength so many women carry.

In this episode, I reflect on a moment that stayed with me long after the microphones turned off.What I thought was breakup grief revealed something deeper — lineage, ancestors, and the responsibility of being the light in my family line. Brandi Praxton spoke life into me and reminded me that “Doctor” isn’t just a title I earned. It’s part of my name.This is a quiet conversation about grief, inheritance, and claiming what we’ve been shrinking from.

In this episode, we sit with Angela (@PurpleReign1220)—an author, a mother, and a woman stepping into a new chapter after navigating difficult seasons. She shares how intentional naming, love for Black names, and the example of a strong mother shaped the way she shows up for her own children. A thoughtful conversation about resilience, legacy, and becoming the kind of parent you once needed.

In this episode of Given Name, Daniel Holder (@disruptourdan) shares the story behind his name and the journey that shaped it. Born in London and now living in the States, Daniel reflects on childhood, family, and the meaning carried through names across generations. He talks about the care he’s putting into naming his own children, including the significance of biblical names and their meanings. This conversation is a thoughtful exploration of identity, faith, and how our earliest names continue to guide the lives we build.

In Proud to Be a Paxton, we sit with Brandi as she shares a name story rooted in pride, lineage, and legacy. Brandi reflects on growing up in a family she lovingly describes as DC royalty, her deep admiration for her father, and how her own middle name honors his. That tradition continues with her son, whose name was lovingly decided through a blend of family input, intuition, and a godfather who came prepared — bibs and all.This conversation is about carrying family history forward, balancing voices in the naming process, and embracing the responsibility and joy that comes with being part of something bigger than yourself.

In this episode of Given Name, Tenisha (@Nish2Sweet) shares the story behind her name — and the many nicknames that followed her through different seasons of life. From names shaped by family and sports to the joy of naming others, Tenisha reflects on how names hold memory, identity, and connection. Come listen as we explore the very first gift we’re given: our name.

In this episode of Given Name, we talk with Adrienne (@FearlessHusstleCo) a Bronx native named by her mother whose name carries love, family complexity, and pride. She reflects on growing up with a different last name than her mom, the feelings of distance that created, and the humor that follows her name — including the inevitable Rocky quote. Grounded and brilliant, Adrienne shares a story about identity, belonging, and owning your name fully.

Expect to be corrected! This episode sits with De’Neshay (@piscesprncss)—a daughter, sister, mother, wife, and Northern California native—who speaks lovingly about her name and the intention behind it. She reflects on the name she almost had, the one she was given instead, and how naming became a way to honor culture, faith, and family in her own home. Listen for a warm conversation about legacy, pride, and growing into who you already are.

In Rockin’ Robbin, we explore the meaning of names, legacy, and love passed down through generations. Robbin shares the story of being named the feminine version of her father’s name, how she grew to cherish it, and the pride she carries in honoring his legacy by naming her son after his surname. A tender conversation about identity, family, and a name rooted in brightness, hope, and new beginnings.

In this episode, we’re joined by Leslie (@brownbettyphotography) of the Everyday People Podcast for a conversation about names, legacy, and becoming more human. Leslie reflects on being named after her father, the pride she carries in that connection after his passing, and how motherhood reshaped how she sees both her parents and herself. We also talk intentional naming, identity, and why Leslie—with an “ie” fits her perfectly.

Welcome to my very first interview episode! I have the pleasure of speaking with one of my good-good Sorors (💙💛🐩), Shenequial Chantel (@chic_Chantel22). Listen as we explore the origin of her name, the evolution of her identity, and the social sanctions that read as discrimination. Follow Shenequial's Social Media:Instagram, TikTok, & YouTube.*There will be some volume variation. This was one of my first recordings so bare with me.

In this first episode of Given Name, host Dr. Shanae introduces herself and the heart behind the podcast. She shares her own journey with her name, how sociology shaped her understanding of identity and empathy, and why she’s choosing to move beyond harm-based narratives toward creativity, care, and meaning.

This trailer describes what to expect from the podcast.