The Melanin 360 Podcast

Y'all ate your girl UP after last month's episode with your thoughts about MY thoughts around coffee or "low-stakes" first dates. In this episode, I invited Morgan - one half of the I Vow Podcast - to chit chat with me about why the first meeting or pre-date doesn't need to be a whole production and the pros and cons of doing a vibe check before a full blown date. What do you think? Does low pressure automatically equal low effort? Can a meaningful connection be had ...

This month, I invited my sis Leigh LaRie of the Dirty Roses Podcast to come kiki with me in the studio! We talk about everything from getting "flewed out", falling head over heels for a man - LITERALLY, dating advice and of course, some of our favorite 90's music. This is an episode you DO NOT want to miss! So grab a glass of wine and your favorite snack and get ready for a great episode! Links: Instagram: @themelanin360podcast &nbs...

Welcome to Mental Health Awareness Month! I hope all of you are being kind to yourselves and giving yourself - and others - some grace, especially in this crazy world! Instead just talking about the importance of mental health in general, I wanted to put a different spin on it. This conversation isn’t about pretending everything is okay. It’s about how gratitude can coexist with healing, therapy, burnout, grief, and growth. My guest, Lenee Baber, author of Mentally Free: 60 Day...

In this episode of The Melanin 360 Podcast, we’re talking all things healing, prevention, and real impact with Kristin Adams of Peace for DC. From violence interruption to building safer neighborhoods, Kristin breaks down the work, the challenges, and why it matters now more than ever. IG: @themelanin360podcast @peacefordc @sarcarrogance Email: melanin360biz@gmail.com Website: www.melanin-36...

In honor of Women's History Month, I sit down with Coach Shara Smith, founder of Gateways to Greatness, to talk about what it means to us to be strong, black women. We also discuss what this title means in our generation vs. the ones before us, as well as how we can reclaim and transform "Strong Black Woman" into something that works for us in today's world and is healthy for us mentally, physically and spiritually. IG: @themelanin360podcast @gatewaystogreatness &nb...

What it do Black People!? Welcome to another episode of The Melanin 360 Podcast and Happy Black History Month! In this episode, me and my guest, the lovely Leo Ra'Chel of The Phat Girl Chronicles have a hilarious discussion about what Girl Code means to us, whether these youngin's even know what it is and how it influences - or SHOULD - influence how we move as women and young ladies. IG: @themelanin360podcast @iamleorachel @sarc...

What it do Black People!? Welcome back to another episode of the Melanin 360 Podcast, and Happy New Year! This episode, I'm giving you all my "new home" tour :) Yes, Melanin 360 has found it's new home at Sarcarrogance Media Group and I couldn't be more happy! So today, I'm sitting down with the founder, CEO and HNIC of SMG himself, Pablo! AKA the Pod Boss, aka The Podfather, aka Suge Morning - IYKYK! LOL! We'll talk about how I came to SMG and what this podcast and co...

Whew! 2025 showed her ENTIRE A** didn't she? From city takeovers and some of the most bizarre weather patterns that I've ever seen, to people replacing Tesla emblems with Prius signs...it has been a wild, stressful and sometimes dangerouse ride. This year definitely "took us through dere", but unfortunately not in the we wished it did, LOL! In this episode, I highlight the good, the bad and the ugly of 2025. But most importantly, I talk about how we can prepare for 2026 and ...

Have you ever stopped to think about what role you play in your own biopic? Do you have the rights to your story? Are you taking charge of the direction and casting so that your movie turns out in a way that makes you happy? Or are you sitting on the sidelines, watching others direct the narrative and take over the show and your movie winds up going straight to Tubi? (shade, but no shade!) This week I talk about what it looks like to be intentional about who we let into our lives ...

In the words of one of my favorite SWV songs..."It's About Time"! Yes, your girl is BACK! Because life decided to life like it's never lifed before, I had to step away and handle some things - personally and professionally. But I'm back behind the mic and better than ever! And I'm bringing the guests, topics, solo rants and that "razzle dazzle" that y'all know only I can bring, along with some new things that you'll hear more about as we go along. Today, we're go...

I am so excited to tell you all about my experience at the 5th Annual Afros & Audio Podcast Festival! I had such an amazing time connecting with other black podcasters and content creators and exchanging knowledge and information. But, I also didn't want you to just take my word for it! I've invited K. Wilkes, host of the Pondering Thoughts Podcast to the show to share her experience as a first time particiapant and new podcaster. Also, don't forget to take advantage of...

Y'all know how I've said before, "one day I'll tell you my story"? Well, today I'm sharing a very personal and traumatic peice of my story. In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, my guest, local baker and entrepreneur Breana Day and I share our very real experiences with domestic violence and more importantly, how we got out. The biggest blessing in all of this is that it wasn't the end of our story. Our hearts go out to all of the victims and their families wh...

This week, I invite Morgan Williams of the I Vow Podcast on the show to unpack a clip from the Social Proof Podcast that talked about the ettiequte around inviting your friends to outings. Are you obligated to invite all of them all of the time? Do you knowing invite them to things you know they aren't interested in? Are you justified in feeling a way if you're left off of that group text? We cover IT ALL and then some! Drop down below or head over to IG or FB and let us kn...

This week I go on a solo rant about some of the responses and reactions I've seen and heard regarding the fabricated dissapearance of Carlee Russell. I have LOTS to say and y'all KNOW I'm never afraid to share it! So tune in and let me know what you think! Be sure to check out the affiliates below! IG: @themelanin360podcast Email: jorae@melanin-360.com Website: www.melanin-360.com ...

It's no secret that homelessness is an epidemic that is plaguing not only my hometown of Washington, DC, but every city across America. Once you throw mental illness into the mix, its a recipe for an even larger problem. This week's guest, Urla Barrow - Cheif Executive Director of Hyacinth's Place - talks to us about what she and her organization is doing to eradicate these issues, one woman at a time. She also dispels some myths about the homeless population, provides som...

What it do Black People!? This episode is all about skin care - the do's and don'ts and the tips and tricks to keeping your black beautiful and your melanin moisturized! Licensed esthetician Essence Coleman stops by to spill the tea from a professional standpoint. I learned alot and you will too! And if you live in the DMV area, I encourage you to give her a call...she does AMAZING work! IG: @essentialbyessence_ @themelanin360podcast Email: es...

If "life be life-ing" was a podcast episode, this would be it! This week I'm dropping some gems about what to do when life decides to. be a _________ (insert whatever word you choose) and derail even your most carefully made plans. As always, I get a little transparent about my shortcomings and how I'm getting through them just like y'all. I also pay homage to one of the best to EVER do it, the late, great Ms. Tina Turner - the inspiration for this episode. Leave me a com...

What it do y'all! On this week's episode, my girlfriend Shawna stops by so we can discuss the mental toll it takes on a person to be healthy all their lives and then receive a life altering diagnosis. We also delve into health disparities in the healthcare system surrounding women of color and the importance of being your own health advocate - both for yourself AND with your doctors. We also discuss our love for the show Living Single! Be sure to check out the affiliates below!...

This week's episodes is all about ripping the mask off and embracing our insecurities and flaws. I hope that by the end of this show, we all recognize that the things that we tend to be the most insecure about are the things that make us beautiful and different from everyone else. Be sure to check out the affiliates below! IG: @themelanin360podcast Email: jorae@melanin-360.com Website: www.mela...

It's another solo rant! Y'all asked for it and I'm obliging! This week, we discuss how our relationships do and SHOULD change with our parents as we get older and move into different phases of our lives. In my opinion, I think the relationships we have as adults with as our parents is awesome - IF it's done in a healthy way. Also, be sure to check out the affiliates below! IG: @themelanin360podcast Email: jorae@melanin-360.com &n...

Welcome to Women's History Month! This week, I thought it fitting to pay homage to some of the beautiful and talented Queens who have shaped and molded me throughout the years, whether they know it or not. Some of these women I know personally, and others I've only been able to admire from afar. Nonetheless, they are amazing and deserve their flowers! Comment below or hit me up on IG and let me know who YOU are uplifting this month! Also, be sure to check out the affiliate...

I am so excited to again be joined by the women of the Ft. Washington Maryland Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. as well as Mr. Ra Shabazz, Black Culture Specialist and Miss Ashton Washington, a local high school senior. In recognition of Black History Month, we are having a very real discussion about the attack on and possible erasure of black history from our education systems. Even though it's a thought provoking topic, you KNOW we're doing it Melanin 360 style so th...

I am so excited to be joined by this women of the Ft. Washington Maryland Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. as well as Mr. Ra Shabazz, Black Culture Specialist. In recognition of Black History Month, we have a very real discussion on whether black people have come a long way in this country? Or is it just a case of, "the more things change, they stay the same"? Even though it's a thought provoking topic, you KNOW we're doing it Melanin 360 style so th...

Welcome to Black History Month and "Love Month"! This week we're talking about friends and friendship - what it means to have solid friendships and learning how to let some friends go. As usual, I go on my "solo rant" and give you all my opinion!! Also, be sure to check out the affiliates below! IG: @themelanin360podcast Email: jorae@melanin-360.com Website: www.melanin-360.com ...

This week, Talibah Thomas, author of "Melanin Is...A Coloring Book For All Shades of Black and Brown", stops by the podcast! We talk about what was her inspiration behind coloring "outside of the lines" and creating a coloring book and what she wants this book to bring to black and brown families. She's also a fellow DMV girl who made the leap to leave the U.S. and start a new life in the United Arab Emirates, so we definitely had to have a conversation about how so many other people o...

What it do y'all!! I'm back for the new year and this rant is all about what we will NOT be featuring in 2023!! So get those boxes, packing tape and labels ready because we're about to return some stuff to sender!! Happy New Year! Also, be sure to check out the affiliates below! IG: @themelanin360podcast Email: jorae@melanin-360.com Website: www.melanin-360.com ...

It's' the most wonderful time of the year! Or is it? Your girl just wants to check in on everyone to make sure you're mentally and emotionally okay going into the holiday season. While it's definitely a time to turn up, it's also a time to really take stock of what's going on on the inside as we roll into the new year. So, get ready to chat about Black Christmas music, old and new traditions and learning how to say NO!! Also, be sure to check out the affiliates below...

Can you believe we had a WSET (Wine & Spirirt Education Trust Level 3) on the show? That's right! Nia Ruth, owner of the Nia Ruth Wine Club stops by the podcast and we talk about ALL THINGS wine!! She also dishes on how she created her wine club and how you can join! Who knew there was a black owned wine club out there? Talk about Black Girl Magic! We also announce our very own offer code to Melanin 360 listeners to recieve $10 off of their first wine subscription...

On this episode, I interviewed Corey Gumbs, CEO and Founder of The Black Podcasters Association and Black Label Media, LLC. Corey and I discuss everything thing from our love of 90's New York hip hop to creating safe and creative spaces for black folks in the podcasting and audio space. He also shares his story of how he went from aspiring rapper to being a part of making sure that we can take the world of podcasting by storm! IG: @theblackpodcastersassociation &nbs...

Content creator and author of the Balls of Beauty Blog, Kisha No E, stops by the podcast! And we discuss ALL THINGS fashion! She even convinces me to try pairing leapord and plaid...but I'm not so sure! We also discuss her blog and talk about how black women have been influencing fashion since the 1800's. This episode is fun, light hearted, HILARIOUS, but in true Melanin 360 "fashion" still informational. *As referenced in the show, Ann Lowe designed Jackie Kennedy's weddin...

On this week's show, I'm giving y'all one of my solo rants! And I've decided to talk about Imposter Syndrome. Now, IFYYK, but if you don't, I will break down what Imposter Syndrome, be transparent about my own struggles with it, and ultimately give you some ways to cope with it. Let me know what you think of the show! Be sure to follow the below links for more information! IG: @themelanin360podcast Email: jorae@melanin-360.com &nb...

Hollywood screenwriter, director and comic book author Shequeta Smith comes through to tell us all about her company Shero Comics. We also talk about how comics and cos play are now the norm in our community, where at one one time it wasn't. And lastly, she tells us all of the amazing projects she has coming up...even something for you gamers out there! Be sure to follow the below links for more information! IG: @sherocomics @themelanin360podcast Emai...

Author, entrepreneur and BOSS CHICK Gena Lofton of Lofton Sports stops by the podcast this week!! Gena tells us her amazing story of coming of age in LA's foster care system to owning several properties and businesses, becoming an author and finding financial freedom. She drops some MAJOR gems on us and also talks about her latest real estate venture . Be sure to follow the below links for more information! IG: @loftonsports @themelanin360podcast Ema...

The community leaders and entrepreneurs from DMV based H.O.P.O.N. (Helping Our People Out Now) drop by to tell us not only about their organization and what they're doing in the community, but also their thoughts on what communities of color need to obtain community and self wealth. This is an episode you DON'T want to miss! Be sure to follow the below links for more information! IG: @h.o.p.o.n @themelanin360podcast Email: helpingourpeopleoutnow@g...

Author and entreprenuer Dawn Williams is this week's guest, and she's got something for us AND Big Mama! Not only has Dawn written The B.Y.T.C.H. Book (Building Your Trojan Creative Horse), which chronicles her triumphs and misadventures in the entrepreneurship game, but she also penned "Technology for Seniors", which sets out to help our more seasoned family members work those iPhones and Androids that we insisted on buying them! Be sure to follow the below links for more information!...

On this episode, financial trainer DurShawn Robinson stops by to talk about making our money behave. Whether you have a little or alot, you can make it do what it do baby! Break out the notes app on your phone because DurShawn is going to drop some gems that you won't want want to forget! Be sure to follow the below links for more information! IG: @durshawne_my7cent @themelanin360podcast Email: durshawne@yahoo.com &...

What it do Black People? You know The Melanin 360 Podcast HAD to drop something on you for Juneteenth! Hopefully, this episode finds you eating a burnt hot dog and amazing BBQ ribs cooked by your uncle with the grill sandals and the bomb potato salad your favorite auntie makes while surrounded by family and friends as we celebrate being free-ish since 1865. I also want to send a very special Father's Day shout out to all of the strong black father's and father figures out there.&...

In our fourth installment of our "Run Girl, Run!" series, Angela R. Jones stops by to chat with us! She not only talks about her Maryland Delegate campaign and why you should vote for her, but she also shares her amazing background story, which should be an inspiration to women from all walks of life. *Tamara Davis Brown is running for (and team lead) for state senate *The Prince George's County Council DOES NOT report to the County Executive, however the council, executive and...

Our "Run Girl, Run!" series continues with Karen Scott Greene, who is running for Superior Court Judge, Division 8 in Gwinnett County, GA. She drops some major gems on us about criminal justice reform and why her passion lies in advocating for our youth. We also talk about her campaign and why Gwinnett residents should vote for her...and we also find out which 90's album she thinks is the G.O.A.T.! Support the show

It's been a while, but we're back with part two in the "Run Girl, Run!" series!! Candidate for Prince George's County, MD Council, District 8, Dania Lofton stops by The Melanin 360 Podcast this week. We talk about everything from 90's R&B and her platform for bringing equity back to her section of the county to what got her into politics and why it's important for black women to be on ballots across the country. Support the show

Candice Miller, founder of Beauty From Ashes Foundation, Inc graces us with her presence this week. She share the story of her family's journey through assault, homelessness and now victory in this amazing story. Also we delve into her vision behind Beauty From Ashes and it's mission. Please follow their socials at: FB: Beauty From Ashes Foundation, Inc. IG: BFA_Foundation_Inc www.beautyfaf.org Feel free to donate at: CashApp: $BeautyFAFInc Venmo: @BeautyFAFInc Zelle: (5...

Veronica Campbell of Boudoir by Veronica blessed us with her presence this week. She gives us the low down on boudoir photography is and why it's so damn sexy! She also gives us the scoop on building a self ran business from the ground up. This is an episode you definetly DON'T want to miss! Be sure to support her at www.boudoirbyveronica.com and @boudoirbyveronica on IG Support the show

Yes - you read that right...not clubbing, but CAMPING!! On this week's show, I have the ladies Jocelyn and Shunte, 2 of 3 founders of Melanated Campout. They stopped through to talk bust the myth that black folks don't camp and let y'all know about their AMAZING campout event that's coming up this summer. You can check them out at www.melanatedcampout.com or on IG @melanatedcampout Support the show

Recently, we've seen the high profile suicides committed by Regina King's son, Ian Alexander, Jr., pageant winner and TV-show host Cheslie Kryst and most recently, the young woman a who jumped overboard on the Carnival Valor cruise ship. And this doesn't even include the countless other suicides and attempts made by black and brown people everyday that don't make the news. Why is this happening? What things can push a person to feel as if the world is better without them? F...

Even though we are STILL in the damn pandemic, people are still hell bent on traveling and refusing to follow the rules. So since we obviously can't be still, the least we can do is be the best guests we can and not stress out our good brothers and sisters in the hospitality industry! Morgan Williams, a 5 year veteran of the hotel and resort industry, stops by to spill the tea on the do's and don't's and updates us on the behind the scenes of her industry post Covid. You can also chec...

On this episode, my good friend Kenya Johnson of Reflections by Nia joins me to talk about dyslexia. Not only will we talk about her personal experiences, but also dealing with this learning disability looks different for people of color and those who are economically challenged. Follow her on IG @reflectionsbynia We are now affiliated with Nakedwines.com. Use our link below to join their monthly Angels program! https://rebrand.ly/melaninwine Melanin 360 Beauty True Beauty Come...

To cohabitate or not cohabitate...THAT is the question! The hosts of the "I Vow" podcast are back to talk about living together outside or before marriage. We know how the church mothers and your aunties feel, but what about millennials and Get Z'ers? How do we feel? We are now affiliated with Nakedwines.com. Use our link below to join their monthly Angels program! https://rebrand.ly/melaninwine Melanin 360 Beauty True Beauty Comes From Within...Celebrate Your Melanin! En...

"It's the most wonderful time of the year!" Or is it? LOL! Today, I kick back and have a conversation with y'all about Christmas in Jorae-land! I spill the tea on some of my favorite childhood Christmas memories, holiday songs and movies, and why I didn't celebrate Christmas for many, many years. So sit back with some hot chocolate (hopefully with some Bailey's) and step in to Christmas, Melanin 360 style! We are now affiliated with Nakedwines.com. Use our link belo...

This week I have Morgan and B.J. of the "I Vow" Podcast as my special guests! And trust me, it gets juicy...we're talking about how and if your relationships with your friends should change once you level up in your romantic relationship. We get down to the nitty gritty and even share some of our personal experiences. This is an episode you DON'T want to miss! We are now affiliated with Nakedwines.com. Use our link below to join their monthly Angels program! https://rebrand...

This week I sit down with emergency room RN and adjunct professor to discuss all things 'Rona. From symptoms to vaccinations; myth vs facts; and everything in between. This is an episode you DON'T want to miss! We are now affiliated with Nakedwines.com. Use our link below to join their monthly Angels program! https://rebrand.ly/melaninwine Melanin 360 Beauty True Beauty Comes From Within...Celebrate Your Melanin! https://www.melanin-360.com Interested in starting your own podca...