Welcome to this exciting episode of The Melanin Initiative! We’re diving into the world of KidNaturalz with the youngest entrepreneurs we’ve ever hosted, Bria Milan Bentil (11) and Nylah Rose Bentil (6), alongside their inspiring mom, Dr. Stacy Bentil, DNP. KidNaturalz is a family-founded business offering natural hair and skin care products tailor…

Welcome back to The Melanin Initiative! In this enlightening episode, Dr. Nayo Wills MD, a board-certified physician in Internal and Functional Medicine, dives deep into hormone therapy for women. Dr. Nayo specializes in empowering patients to achieve optimal health through a personalized, integrative approach. With over 16 years of experience, her…

Welcome to The Melanin Initiative! In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into the world of Functional Medicine and Hormone Therapy for Men with Dr. Nayo Wills MD, a highly respected functional medicine expert and board-certified internal medicine doctor. Dr. Wills has a unique approach, viewing health holistically and focusing on the underlying cau…

In this episode of the Melanin Initiative, we’re thrilled to welcome back Anthony Young, MSN, APRN, AGPCNP-BC, CPHQ, as he dives into the mission and impact of the National Black Nurses Association’s (NBNA) Men’s Health Committee. Anthony brings over 20 years of nursing expertise, including his deep commitment to hospice, palliative care, and healt…

In this powerful episode of The Melanin Initiative, we are honored to welcome Dr. Linda Brooks Johnson, a Certified Personal Life Coach (CPLC) and two-time breast cancer survivor, who specializes in supporting breast cancer patients, survivors, and those facing challenging life transitions, such as grief, divorce, and caregiving. Dr. Johnson shares…

In this powerful and insightful episode of The Melanin Initiative, we are joined by Anthony Young, MSN, RN, AGPCNP, CPHQ, a nurse practitioner with extensive experience in hospice and palliative care. Anthony shares his journey in nursing, inspired by his grandmother, and explores the nuances of these essential yet often misunderstood areas of heal…

In this compelling episode of The Melanin Initiative Podcast, we are joined by the remarkable Tiffany Lewis-English, a nurse and fertility doula, to discuss her powerful journey with Endometriosis and Infertility. Tiffany shares her personal story of being diagnosed with stage 4 endometriosis just five months before her wedding and the impact it ha…

Welcome to another enlightening episode of The Melanin Initiative! Today, we have the honor of speaking with Tiffany Lewis-English, founder of Hannah’s Heart Fertility, about the deeply emotional and often overlooked topic of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness. Tiffany shares her personal journey with infertility, endometriosis, and how her faith …

Welcome to the Melanin Initiative! In this powerful episode, we sit down with Dr. Danielle K. McCamey, DNP, ACNP-BC, FCCP, FADLN, founder of DNPs of Color, to discuss the 4th Annual DNPs of Color Conference. Dr. McCamey shares her incredible journey of creating a supportive and inspiring community for nurses of color, focusing on mentorship, advoca…

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Melanin Initiative Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Ashley Wynn-Grimes, a nurse, cannabis advocate, and holistic practitioner from Maryland, as we explore the Benefits of Medical Cannabis on Breast Cancer Patients. Ashley’s journey from traditional nursing roles in medical-surgical nursing an…

Welcome to the Melanin Initiative Podcast! In this special episode of our 73 Questions Series, we have the pleasure of speaking with Shydai K. M., BSN, RN, a remarkable healthcare professional who has successfully transitioned from being an LPN to a newly graduated RN specializing in Surgical ICU. With nearly a decade of diverse healthcare experien…

In this episode of The Melanin Initiative Podcast, we welcome back Dr. Kimberly Souffront, PhD, RN, FNP-BC, FAAN, a powerhouse in nursing, research, and diversity advocacy. Dr. Souffront takes us through her nursing journey, from her start in Boston to becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner and leading vital research in emergency care. She opens up a…

Join us for an insightful episode of The Melanin Initiative featuring Dr. Farah Laurent. In this engaging interview, Dr. Farah Laurent, a seasoned healthcare professional and career coach, answers 73 rapid-fire questions about her journey in nursing. From her initial motivations and career choices to the impact of her specialty and advice for aspir…

Join us for a captivating conversation with Alisha Brown, MSN, RN, as she unpacks the rapidly evolving world of virtual nursing. Alicia Brown, MSN, RN, is a passionate nursing leader with a rich background in bedside care and hospital leadership. From her early days as a new nurse in Washington, D.C., to her current leadership role, Alicia has alwa…

In this episode of The Melanin Initiative, join us for an extraordinary conversation with Robert Chelsea, the first African American full face transplant recipient, whose journey is a powerful testament to resilience and unwavering faith. After a tragic accident that forever changed his life, Robert faced immense challenges as he navigated the comp…

Welcome to The Melanin Initiative! In this milestone episode, we're excited to present our first-ever TMI Awards, celebrating the journey we've taken together through Seasons 1-3. 🎉 Hosts Geraldine, Alisha, and Kimberly dive into the most impactful moments from our podcast so far, including discussions on our most popular episodes like Sexually Tra…

In this episode of The Melanin Initiative, we're thrilled to welcome back Dr. Yvette Conyers for a deeper dive into her inspiring nursing journey and her perspectives on the current state of healthcare. Dr. Yvette Conyers, DNP, RN, FNP-C, CTN-B, CFCN, CFCS, CNE, is a powerhouse in the world of nursing and healthcare. With a deep passion for health …

Welcome to the Melanin Initiative! In this episode, we talk with Kelsey Wilson, LCSW, a therapist in private practice who specializes in empowering women to feel seen and heard in both their personal and professional lives. She has extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, burnout, trauma, and life transitions. Kelsey’s…

Welcome to the Melanin Initiative! In this episode, we talk with Dr. Ruby J. Long, MD, FACEP, an exceptional emergency medical doctor dedicated to saving lives and serving those in need. She is an advocate for equitable healthcare for marginalized and underserved communities and an accomplished author advocating for marginalized individuals in the …

Welcome to the Melanin Initiative! In this episode, we talk with Kelsey Wilson, LCSW, a therapist in private practice specializing in helping women feel seen and heard in their personal and professional lives. Kelsey shares her insights on Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and its application in treating depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, bu…

Welcome everyone to the Melanin Initiative! Today we're talking to special guest, Clarence Sams, MS2 in this series called: Becoming a Physician. We're going to follow his journey to becoming a physician. Each semester he will return to share his experience as we watch his career, vision, and practice evolve. A physician is a medical professional w…

In this enlightening episode of The Melanin Initiative, we are joined by Dr. LaTaya De Jesus, the passionate founder of Eden Health Restored. Dr. De Jesus shares her inspiring journey of pursuing lifestyle medicine and her dedication to helping clients reverse and prevent chronic diseases through sustainable lifestyle changes. She discusses the pre…

Welcome to the Melanin Initiative! In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of our guest, Dr. Farah Laurent, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, NPD-BC, CPXP, CEN, who immigrated to Canada at the age of 9. Despite facing language barriers and bullying, she persevered and became the first in her family to earn a bachelor's, master's, and soon-to-be Doctora…

Welcome to the Melanin Initiative! In this episode, we are joined by Tonja Johnson, the executive director of Beautifully Unblemished Support Group, Inc. Diagnosed with vitiligo in 2014, Tonja faced significant challenges finding information and support, leading her to establish the non-profit in 2017. Together, they discuss the critical support ne…

Welcome to the Melanin Initiative! In this episode, we speak with Tonja Johnson, who was diagnosed with vitiligo in 2014 and faced significant challenges in finding information and support in Florida. This experience led her to found the Beautifully Unblemished Support Group, Inc. in 2017, a non-profit organization that provides social connectivity…

Welcome to the Melanin Initiative! In this episode, we are delighted to have Charity Bean, CMA, CFSD, CLC, CHW, SMW, share her heartfelt journey of becoming a Certified Midwife. Charity is a certified pregnancy, labor, childbirth, and postpartum doula who specializes in hospital birth. With numerous certifications including medical assistant, lacta…

Welcome to the Melanin Initiative! Join us for an exclusive interview in our "73 Questions" series featuring a Doctor of Nursing Student! 🌟 Dive deep into the life, career, and insights of this accomplished healthcare professional. From personal anecdotes to professional advice, discover what it takes to excel in the nursing field. Whether you're a…

In our latest episode, we are thrilled to have Kimberly Souffront, PhD, RN, FNP-BC, FAAN, join us to discuss Asymptomatic High Blood Pressure. Dr. Souffront is a highly accomplished Nurse Scientist, Emergency Nurse Practitioner, Health Equity Advocate, Leader, Innovator, and BIM Fellow. Her extensive research focuses on achieving health equity and …

Welcome to the Melanin Initiative! In this informative episode, we talk with Yvette Conyers DNP, a doctorally-prepared Nurse Practitioner specializing in foot and nail care. Yvette shares her extensive knowledge gained from over 20 years in nursing and over a decade as an advanced practice nurse. She discusses her mission to provide high-quality fo…

Welcome to the Melanin Initiative! In this episode, we discover the groundbreaking skincare brand Nuekie, founded by the brilliant and passionate Eunice Cofie-Obeng, a distinguished chemist and beauty innovator. 🌟 Nuekie, meaning "first daughter in the family and hardworking one," reflects the brand's dedication to promoting healthy, youthful skin …

In this enlightening episode of The Melanin Initiative podcast, we sit down with Dr. LaTaya De Jesus, a dedicated healthcare professional with an inspiring journey from combat medic to triple board-certified nurse practitioner. Dr. LaTaya shares how her faith has guided her career and discusses her passion for Lifestyle Medicine, a holistic approac…

Faisa Farole is a licensed certified midwife and the Founder of Washington state's inaugural Black woman-owned freestanding birth center, the Federal Way Birth Center. She is a seasoned midwife who blazes trails for her community, especially women and babies of color. Recognizing the challenges faced by Black women in maternal care, Farole's vision…

Kenya Hutton is back! He's the current Deputy Director for the Center for Black Equity. In August 2024, he'll be promoted to the President and CEO! He returns to talk about DC Black Pride 2024 in Washington, DC https://dcblackpride.org/ 💫 Wednesday May 22 - Monday May 27 📍 Westin Washington DC Hotel 💻 Workshops, Health & Wellness Pavilion, Vendor M…

Discover the remarkable story of Faisa Farole, a seasoned midwife who blazes trails with the founding of Washington state's inaugural Black woman-owned freestanding birth center. Located in Seattle, the Federal Way Birth Center is more than just a medical facility; it's a beacon of community support, especially for women and babies of color. Recogn…

Dive into our latest podcast episode where we unravel the complexities of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). From symptoms to management strategies, we've got everything you need to know. Tune in now for empowering discussions and valuable insights! Welcome to Season 3! We started the show in May 2023 during Nurses' Week and we're doing it again t…

Our new 73 Questions Series was inspired by @NDMD . We're putting our nursing twist on it and inviting all healthcare professionals to participate so we can learn more about all the different career options in healthcare as well as inspire the next generation. Welcome to Season 3! We started the show in May 2023 during Nurses' Week and we're doing …

Our new 73 Questions Series was inspired by @NDMD . We're putting our nursing twist on it and inviting all healthcare professionals to participate so we can learn more about all the different career options in healthcare as well as inspire the next generation. Welcome to Season 3! We started the show in May 2023 during Nurses' Week and we're doing …

Our new 73 Questions Series was inspired by @NDMD . We're putting our nursing twist on it and inviting all healthcare professionals to participate so we can learn more about all the different career options in healthcare as well as inspire the next generation. Welcome to Season 3! We started the show in May 2023 during Nurses' Week and we're doing …

Demetrius Kirk, DNPc is back to share his journey to pursuing graduate education in a series called, Becoming: Doctor of Nursing Practice. We're going to follow his journey to becoming a doctorally prepared nurse leader. Each semester he will return to share his experience as we watch his career, vision, and practice evolve. ----------------- The N…

Join us for an in-depth discussion on the newest treatments and breakthroughs in weight management. From medications to lifestyle tips, we've got you covered. Welcome to Season 3! We started the show in May 2023 during Nurses' Week and we're doing it again this year. We're releasing a new show every day during Nurses' Week and then weekly on Sunday…

Welcome everyone to the Melanin Initiative! Today we're talking to special guest, Demetrius Kirk, DNPc, about his journey to pursuing graduate education as we begin a new series called: Becoming: Doctor of Nursing Practice. We're going to follow his journey to becoming a doctorally prepared nurse leader. Each semester he will return to share his ex…

Welcome everyone to the Melanin Initiative! “In healthcare, there is often too much information and not enough time. Here at The Melanin Initiative, we avoid TMI by breaking things down into language you can understand, we create a safe space to ask your questions, and share our nursing perspective without taking too much of your time." Today we're…

Welcome everyone to the Melanin Initiative! “In healthcare, there is often too much information and not enough time. Here at The Melanin Initiative, we avoid TMI by breaking things down into language you can understand, we create a safe space to ask your questions, and share our nursing perspective without taking too much of your time." Today we're…

Welcome everyone to the Melanin Initiative! “In healthcare, there is often too much information and not enough time. Here at The Melanin Initiative, we avoid TMI by breaking things down into language you can understand, we create a safe space to ask your questions, and share our nursing perspective without taking too much of your time." Today we're…

Welcome everyone to the Melanin Initiative! “In healthcare, there is often too much information and not enough time. Here at The Melanin Initiative, we avoid TMI by breaking things down into language you can understand, we create a safe space to ask your questions, and share our nursing perspective without taking too much of your time." Today we're…

Welcome everyone to the Melanin Initiative! “In healthcare, there is often too much information and not enough time. Here at The Melanin Initiative, we avoid TMI by breaking things down into language you can understand, we create a safe space to ask your questions, and share our nursing perspective without taking too much of your time." Today we're…

Welcome everyone to the Melanin Initiative! “In healthcare, there is often too much information and not enough time. Here at The Melanin Initiative, we avoid TMI by breaking things down into language you can understand, we create a safe space to ask your questions, and share our nursing perspective without taking too much of your time." Today we're…

Welcome everyone to the Melanin Initiative! “In healthcare, there is often too much information and not enough time. Here at The Melanin Initiative, we avoid TMI by breaking things down into language you can understand, we create a safe space to ask your questions, and share our nursing perspective without taking too much of your time." Today we're…

Welcome everyone to the Melanin Initiative! “In healthcare, there is often too much information and not enough time. Here at The Melanin Initiative, we avoid TMI by breaking things down into language you can understand, we create a safe space to ask your questions, and share our nursing perspective without taking too much of your time." Today we're…

Welcome everyone to the Melanin Initiative! “In healthcare, there is often too much information and not enough time. Here at The Melanin Initiative, we avoid TMI by breaking things down into language you can understand, we create a safe space to ask your questions, and share our nursing perspective without taking too much of your time." Today's epi…