In this episode, Jessica and Ariele dive deep into the world of friendships, exploring their significance, various levels, and the challenges they bring. They start by sharing statistics that highlight the importance of friendships for overall well-being. They discuss different tiers or levels of friendships, ranging from acquaintances to intimate friends, and emphasize the importance of recognizing the differences between these levels. The conversation also touches on the concept of "social fitness" and the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in building and maintaining friendships.

The hosts share personal anecdotes and insights into navigating friendships, including the impact of life changes, trauma bonding, and evolving dynamics over time. They also address common issues such as prioritizing romantic relationships over friendships and the importance of clear communication and boundaries in maintaining healthy friendships.

Throughout the episode, Jessica and Ariele encourage listeners to reflect on their own friendships, considering what they bring to the table and how they can improve as friends. They emphasize the value of self-compassion and celebration of the ways in which individuals show up for their friends.

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Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

FaceBook @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Youtube: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson

Produced by: Ariele

Edited by: Ariele

Jessica’s Cozy Book Nook - Bookshop

Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes - Bookshop

Stay Connected:

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Youtube: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson

Produced by: Ariele

Edited by: Ariele

We delve into the transformative journey of pursuing passions and the positive impact it has on mental health and happiness. We also share research-backed methods to implement your plans to pursue what excites and ignites you.

Episode Transcription Available here

Jessica’s Cozy Book Nook - Bookshop

1. The Alchemist: A Fable About Following Your Dream by Paulo Coelho - Amazon

Stay Connected:

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

FaceBook @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Youtube: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson

Produced by: Ariele

Edited by: Ariele

Marketing: Afia Digital Solutions

In this episode of "Emboldened with Jessica," host Jessica, a licensed mental health counselor, explores the intricacies of soft and hard launches in relationships. Joined by guest Jae Johnson, a passionate advocate for minority communities, they discuss the dynamics of revealing relationship changes to friends, family, and social media. The conversation delves into factors influencing the decision to share relationship status, the significance of boundaries, and the evolving nature of privacy in today's interconnected world. Drawing from personal experiences, Jea provides insights into the considerations around disclosure, privacy, and the interplay between trust and sharing in relationships.

Guest: Jae Johnson

Jessica’s Cozy Book Nook - Bookshop

1. Polysecure: Attachment, Trauma and Consensual Nonmonogamy by Jessica Fern - Amazon

2. Set Boundaries Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab - Amazon

Stay Connected:

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

FaceBook @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson

Produced by: Ariele

Edited by: Ariele

Marketing: Afia Digital Solutions

In this episode, we discuss the concepts of building community and building friendships, exploring the similarities and differences between the two. We also touch on the idea of mixing friend groups and the potential challenges and benefits it can bring. The conversation expands to different types of communities, such as online communities, family, friend groups, and membership-based communities. We address the issue of meeting new people as a professional and provide tips for forging new connections. We emphasize the importance of being approachable, reading body language, and starting conversations based on shared interests or compliments. Additionally, we discuss the secret sauce of maintaining friendships and the role of love languages in understanding and nurturing relationships. The episode concludes with a reflection on the shadow side of friendships and communities, highlighting the importance of addressing conflicts and toxic dynamics.

Episode Transcription Available here

This podcast does not replace therapy or counseling with a licensed professional. 

Jessica’s Cozy Book Nook:  -Bookshop 

How to Win Friends and Influence People- Dale Carnegie - Amazon

Stay Connected: 

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

FaceBook @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica 

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson

Produced by: Ariele

Edited by: Ariele

Marketing: Afia Digital Solutions

Inflation has caused a rise in the cost of everything, but our wages don't always match that. Negotiating can help ensure that our salaries and purchases reflect our worth. In this episode, the host shares her personal experience of negotiating for a new car, including the unexpected sales tactics used by dealerships. She also discusses the importance of having a supportive community to help navigate negotiations. The guest, Producer Ariele, asks about negotiating beyond money and how to assertively navigate life. The episode concludes with tips on negotiating from former FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss's book, "Never Split the Difference."

Transcription available here  

This podcast is not a replacement for therapy or counseling with a licensed professional.  

Jessica's Cozy Book Nook: 

Book: Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It. Author: Chris Voss, Tahl Raz - Amazon

Stay Connected: 

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

FaceBook @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica 

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson

Produced by: Ariele

Edited by: Ariele

Marketing: Afia Digital Solutions

In this episode, we discuss the topic of dating and the phenomenon known as "Hot Auntie Summer." We explore the different aspects of dating, from meeting new people to building meaningful relationships. Additionally, we delve into the concept of "Hot Auntie Summer," which has gained popularity in recent years as a celebration of women in their 30s and 40s who are embracing their sexuality and independence.

Guest: Lisa Holmes

Stay Connected: 

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

FaceBook @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica 

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson

Produced by: Ariele

Edited by: Ariele

Marketing: Afia Digital Solutions

New Episodes will be released on 5/30/23

Stay Connected: 

Instagram: @EmboldenedwithJessica

FaceBook @EmboldenedwithJessica

TikTok: @EmboldenedwithJessica 

Credits:

Host: Jessica Jackson

Produced by: Ariele

Edited by: Ariele

Marketing: Afia Digital Solutions

Transcription

JessicaJ: Welcome to the podcast Emboldened with Jessica. I'm Jessica, a licensed mental health counselor. This podcast is for you, if you're interested in personal growth and relatable community conversations. Emboldened with Jessica examines the nuances of holistic wellness, popculture, and showing up daily as our wholeselves. Using an anti-oppressive, sexpositive lens, a blackity black mental health therapist, and guests, dive into topics inquiring minds want to know. We invite listeners to join us in embracing your immense value, laughter, healing, and a commitment to being Emboldened.