• Talks With Middle Adults Season Finale: Overcoming Perfectionism, Embracing Vulnerability, and Nurturing Financial Wellness
    Jul 30 2024
    Ever wondered how young professionals tackle perfectionism, navigate their career paths, and find a balance between personal growth and professional success? Discover the candid and inspiring stories of Amir and Joya in the season finale of the Unlearned Podcast, where our hosts Ruth Abigail (Ra) and Jaquetta bring you a wealth of insights and practical advice. Listen in as Amir, an assistant director and campus programmer, and Joya, a passionate young adult, share their personal journeys, challenges, and victories. Producer Joy also joins the celebration, adding a rare and delightful on-screen presence to our discussion.

    From overcoming imposter syndrome with the help of mentors to embracing the philosophy that "done is better than perfect," this episode addresses the real struggles young professionals face in high-pressure environments. We unpack Amir's transition from diverse roles to his niche in student affairs and Joya's path from uncertainty to discovering her passion for administration. The stories are not just about professional growth but also about maintaining authenticity and vulnerability, essential traits for effective leadership and healthy workplace dynamics. Hear firsthand how our guests manage these intricate balances and integrate personal development into their careers.

    As we wrap up this season, we also highlight the significance of self-care, financial wellness, and setting intentional boundaries. Dive into practical tips for managing stress, achieving financial health, and finding joy in everyday routines. Plus, don't miss our exciting announcement about the upcoming series on unlearning entrepreneurship. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for updates and continue this journey of unlearning to achieve greater freedom and fulfillment. Join us for this enriching episode and celebrate the milestones with the Unlearned Podcast community!

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 26 mins
  • Freedom Friday: Patience is YOUR Missing Virture!
    Jul 26 2024

    What if your mistakes were the stepping stones to your greatest growth? In this conversation, we delve into the privilege of making mistakes and how each stumble has been a vital part of our journey. We discuss the freedom that comes from trying new things, even when they don't go as planned, and the significance of embracing unpaid opportunities to build skills and knowledge. Listen to personal anecdotes, such as my experience teaching piano lessons, and gain insights into the essential seasons of life that can't be skipped. Tune in for an inspiring discussion that encourages you to embrace every step of your journey, from missteps to milestones.

    Show more Show less
    14 mins
  • Talks With Middle Adults: Triggers in Friendships, Insecurity in Leadership, Diverse Personalities, Transitions, and Powerful Memories
    Jul 23 2024

    Have you ever wondered how a simple makeover could spark a lifelong friendship? In this episode, we invite our special guest, Producer Joy (Producer of the UnLearnT Podcast), to join us in reminiscing about nearly two decades of shared memories and the transformative moments that shaped our bond. From Ruth Abigail's early days of iconic tank tops and hair clips to her evolution into a confident leader, we recount the laughter and pivotal experiences that strengthened our connection. Jaquetta's humorous recollections of Ruth's style and their unforgettable makeover offer a lighthearted look at the beginnings of an enduring friendship.

    Navigating the complexities of friendships, we discuss how triggers and misunderstandings can actually lead to personal growth if approached thoughtfully. Through a heartfelt anecdote involving an initially hurtful comment from Joy, we underscore the value of honest feedback and the transformative power of candid conversations. We celebrate the joy of witnessing each other's growth, the unwavering support that has been pivotal in our journeys, and the profound impact of leaning into various relationships, including friendships, mentorships, and spiritual connections. Join us for an episode filled with laughter, memories, and insights into the beautiful evolution of friendships.

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 6 mins
  • Talks With Middle Adults: What To Do When Your Personal Habits Are Creeping Into Your Professional Life
    Jul 16 2024

    In this episode, we challenge the idea of splitting your life into separate compartments and introduce a fresh perspective on integrity, likening it to the wholeness of an "integer." Every part of our lives impacts the others, and we explore how embracing this interconnectedness can lead to genuine personal growth.

    In our deeper discussion, we dive into the essence of personal integrity and the pitfalls of living through a "representative" version of ourselves. Learn from our stories and insights how true professional growth is inextricably linked to personal development. We talk about the value of self-love and how appreciating your unique gifts can enhance self-care and leadership, even touching on time management tips that evolve as life circumstances change. Whether you're struggling with procrastination or trying to balance your responsibilities, this episode offers practical advice and engaging anecdotes to help you manage your energy effectively.

    We also explore the journey of unlearning indecisiveness and taking charge of one's life narrative, including the importance of financial independence. Discover how understanding personal productivity rhythms and mentoring styles can transform your approach to leadership and personal development. As we wrap up, we encourage listeners to join our community of "unlearners," dedicated to fostering a culture of commitment, courage, and continuous self-improvement. Get ready for laughs, insights, and a roadmap to becoming a more integrated and empowered version of yourself!

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 30 mins
  • Freedom Friday: Are Your Friends Safe?
    Jul 12 2024

    What happens when the discomfort you feel isn't a signal of danger, but rather an opportunity for growth? We dive into the often-overlooked challenges of making friends as adults, where the eagerness for companionship can lead to misplaced trust. Drawing from the wisdom of my father, we categorize friendships into four distinct groups: casual friends, cohorts, close friends, and confidants, offering you practical tools to build a reliable and genuine community.

    Show more Show less
    15 mins
  • Talks With Middle Adults: What To Do When I'm Feeling Unsafe
    Jul 9 2024


    Have you ever felt on edge during life's transitions, questioning whether it's genuine danger or just discomfort? We dive deep into managing these feelings and offer our own experiences to help you feel more secure amidst change. From relationship shifts to job changes, we discuss how to manage rather than eliminate discomfort and the importance of facing our fears head-on. We share our strategies for handling the dread of making mistakes and the anxiety that comes with unforeseen situations, offering practical advice on how to navigate these turbulent times. Through personal anecdotes, we'll show you how embracing vulnerability and the unexpected can lead to a richer, more fulfilling life.

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 27 mins
  • (Throwback) Freedom Friday: The Art and Consequences of Juggling with Jaquetta Ross
    Jul 2 2024
    Ever found yourself tangled in beliefs that no longer serve you? This Freedom Friday, my best friend, Jaquetta Ross, joins me for a transformative discussion on the liberating journey of unlearning—an odyssey that is reshaping our personal narratives. We'll dive into the insights Jaquetta has gained from her recent speaking engagements, particularly during Black History and Women's History months, and how sharing these experiences enrich our community. We muse on the art of intertwining life's stories with public discourse, cultivating a genuine connection with our listeners. As we thread our way through the complexities of life, we ponder the artistry required to juggle its many demands—grasping for intentionality in time management, seeking grace amidst imbalance, and embracing community as a means to temper the solitude of independence. Join us for this heartfelt exploration of personal growth and the continuous quest for harmony in the rhythm of life.With nearly two decades of friendship as our backdrop, we celebrate the profound impact we've had on each other's lives—testament to the power of enduring bonds in charting our life’s course.

    Show more Show less
    37 mins
  • Freedom Friday: Reclaiming Joy in Adulthood
    Jun 28 2024
    What if maturity didn't have to mean losing your joy? On this Freedom Friday episode of the Unlearned Podcast, I revisit that very question, inspired by a poignant scene from "Inside Out 2." Imagine Joy, the ever-optimistic character, grappling with the reality that growing up could mean having less joy. This revelation hit me hard and prompted me to challenge the conventional belief that joy diminishes with age. Join me as I share this deeply personal experience and unpack the emotions introduced in the film—anxiety, embarrassment, envy, and boredom—and how they intersect with our perception of happiness.

    This episode isn't just about a movie; it's about reclaiming joy as adults. We'll dive into the complexities of adulthood, where responsibilities pile up, and anxiety seems to overshadow our happiness. Together, we'll unlearn the limiting belief that joy is reserved for the naive or untainted. Tune in as we explore practical ways to cultivate joy in our lives, regardless of how "mature" we become. It's a heartfelt journey that promises to leave you feeling a bit lighter and a whole lot freer.
    Show more Show less
    11 mins