The Power of Care Podcast

In this heartfelt and revealing episode, host Brianna Dance sits down with Vallie Kirk and Christine James—two pastor’s wives and contributors to the powerful anthology The Pastors' Wives' Diaries: A Visible Journal of the Invisible Journey. Together, they share personal reflections, unspoken truths, and the often unseen emotional and spiritual weight carried by women in ministry leadership roles. With raw honesty and grace, Vallie and Christine open up about their lived experiences—navigating identity, sacrifice, faith, and resilience behind the pulpit. This authentic conversation sheds light on the hidden layers of ministry life, the importance of community, and the strength it takes to hold space for others while tending to your own soul. Whether you're connected to ministry life or simply seeking a window into real stories of courage and calling, this episode is a testament to the quiet power of being present, seen, and heard. Click here to purchase the book: https://a.co/d/adPhwQq

In this powerful episode, host Brianna Dance is joined by two special guests: Deonte Smith, a seasoned DCPS Behavior Tech, and licensed therapist Ayisha Jones Keith. Together, they unpack the complex, emotional, and often misunderstood world of ADHD—through both clinical expertise and lived experience. From missed diagnoses and parenting challenges to breakthrough moments of self-compassion, this candid conversation explores how ADHD shows up at different stages of life. Ayisha shares her deeply personal journey alongside clinical insights, while Deonte offers real-world school-based strategies to support children navigating ADHD inside and outside the classroom. The episode also explores the often-polarizing conversation around medication vs. non-medication approaches, the role of parenting neurodivergent children, and how, for many, ADHD can be a superpower—fueling creativity, resilience, and out-of-the-box thinking. You’ll walk away with vulnerable storytelling, myth-busting truths, and practical tools that anyone—diagnosed or not—can use to better understand themselves or someone they love.

In the season finale, Brianna opens up about the winding path of healing after deep losses—from the grief of losing a birth mother to the pain of friendship breakups. With heartfelt honesty, she shares what it's like to release codependent relationships, embrace confidence in who she is, and lean into the comforting presence of God as both a guide and friend. This episode is an encouraging reminder that, while loss leaves its mark, it also makes room for freedom, self-discovery, and a love that uplifts and sustains. Join Brianna as she closes Season 2 with words of hope, resilience, and faith for anyone navigating their own journey through loss.

In this inspiring episode, Brianna sits down with Antoine Trowers a Licensed Psychotherapist and the Owner of Ubuntu Wellness, to explore the transformative power of Black mentorship, fatherhood, and choosing a helping profession. Antoine opens up about his journey of pursuing a master’s degree full-time while raising two children and working full-time, sharing the challenges and rewards of balancing it all. Together, they dive into the societal pressures on men to suppress their needs, the importance of holding space for our children and the men we love, and the role therapy plays in parenting. Antoine also shares essential self-care tips for therapists, emphasizing the need for restoration in helping professions. This episode offers practical advice for parents, partners, and professionals alike, reminding us all that healing starts with presence and connection.

In this insightful episode, we’re joined by Ebony Gordon, CEO of HAIRISTA STUDIO, as she shares her expertise on maintaining healthy hair. With over a decade of experience, Ebony debunks common hair myths surrounding color treatments, trims, and overall hair health. She also gives her top product recommendations—including an honest review of Cecred—and provides practical tips for keeping your hair strong and vibrant. Whether you're a seasoned stylist or someone looking to improve your hair care routine, this episode is packed with valuable advice and wisdom from a pro!

Christina M. Jones, Esq. is a survivor of child sexual abuse and passionate advocate for women and girls. Christina has used her training and experience to design and implement consent and sexual assault seminars to teenagers around Washington D.C. She began her career as a prosecutor focusing on crimes against women and children. In this powerful episode, Christina M. Jones, Esq. sheds light on the alarming statistics surrounding Black girls and sexual abuse, diving deep into the themes of shame and the urgent need to destigmatize what sexual assault survivors look like. She shares her journey of becoming an attorney and advocate, dedicating her life's work to prosecuting predators and empowering women and girls to heal. Christina also offers invaluable tips on how we can normalize conversations with our children about their bodies, sex, and consent—while ensuring their safety within our communities and beyond. Book Christina to speak: https://www.commandjoyco.com/about-us-1 Follow Christina: @christinamichellejones@commandjoyco Follow Brianna,Host: @powerofcarepodcast @Brianna.m.dance

Discover the transformative power of design with renowned interior designer Carmeon Hamilton. In this compelling episode, Carmeon shares her personal journey through the heartbreaking losses of her husband and mother, and how these experiences taught her to live with intention. She also recounts her inspiring career path that led her to HGTV, offering invaluable design tips to create spaces that enhance your well-being and reflect your unique personality. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation that blends personal stories with professional insights, guiding you to elevate your space and your life. Checkout her house tour and TED Talk on Envrionmental Truths. Follow her on instagram @carmeonhamilton. Follow Brianna @brianna.m.dance

In this episode, Cyhl and Ashley share their remarkable journey, beginning when they met in college. Cyhl was on a full football scholarship, and Ashley was on a full volleyball scholarship. They first crossed paths at the mall and quickly fell in love. Right after Ashley's final collegiate volleyball game, she discovered she was pregnant, just as Cyhl was preparing to pursue his NFL dream. Together, they navigated hard times, choosing love and growing closer to God and each other as a family. They welcomed their first son, Caiden, and later Carter, both of whom are excelling in sports and academics. Cyhl and Ashley discuss how they prioritize family and careers while mentoring the next generation of athletes.

In this episode, Brianna sits down with licensed mental health therapist Candace Washington to discuss the importance of normalizing the experience of multiple, sometimes conflicting, emotions at once. Candace explains how there is space for both joy and sadness to coexist, and that feeling these emotions simultaneously doesn't indicate weak faith or ingratitude. She courageously shares her personal battle with depression and suicidal ideation, offering insights and hope for those navigating similar struggles. Additionally, Candace dives into some of her favorite examples of people in the Bible who navigated the duality of suffering and faith. Join us for a heartfelt conversation about embracing the full spectrum of our emotional experiences.

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Jillian Walker, who shares her deeply personal journey of navigating grief after losing her grandmother in 2016 and her father during the height of the pandemic. Jillian opens up about how these profound losses turned her world upside down and the invaluable lessons she has learned along the way. She offers wisdom on humanizing our parents, recognizing their full lives before we came into the picture, and appreciating every moment we have with them. Jillian encourages us to find stillness in times of uncertainty, reflect on our losses, and embrace gratitude for where we are now. Join us for a moving conversation that touches on the essence of life, loss, and the growth that follows.Follow Jillian on Instagram: @ms.jpwFollow Brianna: @powerofcarepodcast

Danielle is a highly accomplished fashion designer, stylist, and advocate with over 15 years of experience in the industry and has established herself as a passionate advocate for inclusivity and diversity within the field.Throughout her career, Danielle has demonstrated a deep understanding of the design process, coupled with a keen eye for balancing creativity with business acumen. Her expertise has made her a respected figure in the industry, where she has played pivotal roles in shaping brands and initiatives that champion size inclusivity.In 2022, Danielle founded Xtnd Consulting Co., a collective aimed at supporting the fashion industry's journey towards greater size inclusivity. Alongside this, she launched ‘The Xtnded Convos Podcast’, providing a platform for industry insiders to share insights and experiences in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of size-inclusive fashion.Prior to her current endeavors, Danielle served as the Design Director at 11 Honoré, where her contributions helped redefine luxury fashion for women sizes 12 and above. She has also held key positions at Torrid, a leading plus-size retailer, where her leadership and strategic vision significantly contributed to business growth.Driven by her passion for mentorship and fostering young talent, Danielle established the Jahari Fashion Mentorship Program, connecting industry insiders with fashion students of color to enhance their skills and opportunities in the industry.Danielle Williams Eke’s dedication to inclusivity and innovation continues to inspire positive change in the fashion industry and beyond.In this episode Danielle shares her remarkable journey from childhood shopping trips to Macy's with her grandmother, which ignited her passion for fashion, to being featured in top fashion publications like Vogue, Forbes, Nylon, and more. In this candid discussion, Danielle also sheds light on the importance of mental health for creatives. She shares personal insights and experiences, offering valuable advice on navigating the challenges of maintaining well-being while pursuing a career in the fast-paced world of fashion. Subscribe now and hit the notification bell to stay updated on all our upcoming conversations! Checkout her podcast @xtndconsulting Follow Danielle Instagram: @dwfashion Follow Brianna: @powerofcarepodcast 

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Brandon Starkes, the visionary behind The People’s Market. Hailing from Prince George’s County, Maryland, Brandon's journey from Bowie to Silver Spring reflects a commitment to uplifting his community. With his wife, Chaka, and son, Malcolm, by his side, Brandon is on a mission to amplify the voices of Black farmers and historically marginalized groups, fostering economic empowerment and local investment. Drawing from over 15 years of public service experience in DC and Prince George’s County Government, Brandon shares invaluable insights on navigating career transitions and aligning with one's true purpose. In this candid discussion, he delves into the importance of letting go of paths that don't resonate with your destiny and embracing your innate strengths. Tune in to discover how Brandon Starkes is reshaping the narrative of economic inclusivity and community resilience, one market at a time. Don't miss out on this empowering dialogue! Shop The Peoples Market: https://www.thepeoplesmarketdmv.com The Peoples Market Instagram: @thepeoplesmarketdmv Brianna's Socials: TikTok @thepowerofcarepodcast Instagram: @Brianna.m.dance @powerofcarepodcast

Wendelyn Dance, is an administrative assistant at Sharon Bible Fellowship Church in Maryland. Wendy is a lover of arts and crafts who values her walk with God , her friends and family. Wendy gives women the courage to continue to learn and the power to use their voices and gifts. She embodies the phrase, "its never too," and is currently in a masters program studying Biblical Studies.In this episode she and her daughter talk about the highs and lows of the mother daughter relationship, dating in 2023, and protecting your relationships from social media.

Maurice "Mo" Bowie is a Financial Consultant and Employee Benefits Specialist, responsible for educating the private sector, federal, and state government employees as it relates to employer sponsored benefits, and independently derived programs. As a seasoned professional with 32 years of experience in the employee benefits, insurance, and financial services industries, Maurice is known for his integrity, work ethic, and overall industry knowledge when providing consultation to prospects, his clients, and their families. In this episode Maurice shares his experience as a single parent, his perspective on grief and loss , and encourages us to assess our realtionship with money and financial planning. Mo is also respected leader in the fitness community and encourages people to live a healthy lifestyle with his brand Team KIP(Keep It Push'n).

Alex Young, is a black woman in tech who is an advocate for mental health, self love and well being. Growing up Alex played competitive sports like soccer, rugby, and martial arts and has had more than 4 surgeries. Being an athlete was a huge part of her identity, and the pandemic helped her heal and discover other things about herself. In this episode she encourages us to celebrate big little wins along the way, look for glimmers, value in having a soul tribe, empowerment lessons from her dad, consequences of staying silent, and improving our self esteem.

Jasmine McGill, a Soft Goods & Prop Stylist , and Film Photographer based in New York reflects on how her HBCU(Hampton University) prepared her for making connections as a free lance creative. She shares her love for production and the importance of using discernment when building connections and friendships. Networking comes easy for some, but for Jas this is a skill she practices daily. No matter if you consider yourself an introvert or extrovert, she encourages us to create routines and hobbies that will help us push past fear and intro purpose. Contact Jas Portfolio: https://needmopink5af0.myportfolio.com Instagram: @jasmcburr Email: [email protected] Contact Brianna Dance @powerofcarepodcast [email protected] https://www.powerofcarellc.com

Reginald Ezekiel Ward Jr. is a speaker and philanthropist from Prince George’s County, Maryland. Better known as EZ, his dynamic personality and inspiring journey has led him to speak in front of tens of thousands of people. ‍ He was diagnosed with a speech impediment that hindered him from confidently speaking without stuttering.It was this same roadblock that became a stepping stone for him. Being teased in grade school gave him the determination to attend speech therapy sessions and find his voice. With his persistence and drive, EZ soon realized that God had gifted him with this voice to motivate others through his own experiences and transformations. ‍ In 2016, he also pursued Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. He went on to complete his Bachelor’s of Science with a concentration in Broadcast Journalism in 2017, and gave his speech as Senior Class President at graduation in front of 23,000 people. In 2019, EZ attained his Master’s at Georgetown University in Sports Industry Management, with an emphasis in Strategic Marketing. ‍ In spite of the obstacles EZ has faced throughout his youth, he’s had the support and guidance of his father to get him through it all. Using his platform and his voice, he plans to impact, encourage and inspire others, to show them how to walk in their destiny and walk in their purpose to be the best version of themselves. ‍ “There’s pain in your purpose and purpose in your pain.”Follow EZ on Instagram: @reginaldeward and @moorefaith826 Follow Brianna: @powerofcarepodcast

Brianna Dance, licensed therapist and host of the Power of Care podcast shares the benefits of unsubscribing from unhelpful, thoughts, patterns, and words that ruminate in our minds. She also empowers us to subscribe to things that push us towards our goals and purpose.

Vanessa Crawford, is a senior computer network defense analyst for the National Security Agency(NSA) lover of music, Jesus, technology, and sports. In this episode she encourages us to own who we are and to say yes to the God given opportunities even if it seems unfavorable at first . She opens up about her diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis and what helps her push through the pain.

Brianna Dance, host of the Power of Care podcast and mental health clinician shares how she is getting through a unexpected health challenges. In this episode she opens up about her relationship with her body and ways we can reframe our minds about our hard siuations.

Kristin Tucker , a chemical engineer and business owner in the DMV area shares her journey from North Carolina A&T to becoming a technology consultant working at the state and federal government sector with a focus on modernizing systems and applications. Kristin believes that we are all engineers and she gives us a glimpse of what she's learned as an entrepreneur. Kristin is the founder of So HBCU, which is a gift shop that supports HBCU women. Proceeds from each purchase go towards scholarships for HBCU students.Donate to SOHBCU or purchase products: https://www.sohbcu.com Follow SO HBCU on Instagram: @sohbcu Follow Brianna on Instagram: @powerofcarepodcast

Lauren Cooper, is a wife, mom of two, ethics professional and content creator based out of New York. She has navigated from being a professional basketball player to a successful ethics professional, in which she has received honorary recognition. Creating content is her passion and serves as a vessel to encourage and inspire others by providing a snapshot of her personal walk in the many roles she plays. In this episode Lauren takes us through her many transitions after high school. From finding love right before she starts her basketball career at UMBC and George Washington University, recovering from injuries, playing professional basketball overseas, getting married in her early 20's to having two children. Lauren's faith was tested many times and she credits her relationship with God for where she stands today.

Licencsed Independent Clinical Social Worker Jasmine Stephens shares her journey to becoming a change agent in Washington DC. Jasmine is dedicated to serving children and their familes specifically the advancement of black children. She gives honor to the black women in her family that shape her zeal for helping others. During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic , Jasmine went through challenges that produced a spirtual and physical transformation. In this episode she gives us wisdom on the importance of having a healthy relationship with ourselves and having friends who are locked in order to live a full life.

Rhia McKissic , a teacher, advocate, and coach in Harlem , New York takes us through her 10 year journey as a teacher in Baltimore City and New York City and how she's evolved . As a kid Rhia was shamed from expressing herself in school and now dedicates her career to empowering herself and students. Rhia is an advocate for freedom of self expression by way of educational liberation and a walking example of intentional wellness. In this episode she encourages us to listen to our bodies and removing the blockages that prevent us from hearing from God clearly. Rhia McKissic Instagram: @thatssorhi Follow @Powerofcarepodcast on Instagram and Tik Tok

Ashley Crenshaw is a mom, parent advocacy coach and content creator in Charlotte,North Carolina. She has spent the last 8 years as an educator before transitioning to the non profit sector. In this episode she is transparent about the ups and downs of having a child with autism and the importance of self-care and seeking balance as a wife and mother of two.

Digital Content Creator and Entrepreneur @PaigeMariah takes us through her courageous journey of leaving her hometown of Chicago ,moving abroad to London, and going back to the US for a new adventure. Paige shares her personal evolution of overcoming fear and building the life of her dreams . Her mission is to inspire young adults and professionals to be intentional about wellness by prioritizing joy and fulfillment.Tune in for new bi-weekly episodes.