Welcome back to The Shades of Pride with Vic and Rena ! July is here, and we’re starting the month with power, pride, and purpose. Happy Disability Pride Month to all our listeners! In this episode, we celebrate the strength and beauty of living a limitless life, regardless of disability.

We dive into our week and share some fun Fourth of July traditions, including our annual family casino trip—something especially meaningful to Vic, as it marks the last tradition shared with her father before his passing last year on July 9.

We also share our amazing experience at the American Council of the Blind Convention in downtown Dallas, where we volunteered at the DFW Virtual Lions Club table in partnership with the Laurel Wheeler Foundation. We made some incredible connections and left feeling inspired.

This episode kicks off our Small Business Spotlight Series for July! Rena sits down with Vic for an in-depth interview about her 10-year journey as a successful massage therapist and business owner. Vic opens up about what inspired her, the steps she took to get licensed, the obstacles she’s overcome, and how she built a loyal clientele. She also shares tips, education insights, and her vision for the future of accessible wellness.

Know a small business owner who uses accessible tech and wants to share their story? We’re looking for two guest entrepreneurs to join us this month! Reach out if you’re interested or if you have questions about massage therapy or entrepreneurship.

Want to book a massage with Vic? Whether you’re local or just visiting the DFW area, head to her website: www.majestichealinghandstx.com Don’t miss this heartfelt, empowering episode. Hit play now! Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575048897727 YouTube https://youtube.com/@shadesofpridewithvicrena?si=U6pNEpgxZ8k1uNHr Email shadesofpridepod@gmail.com To leave a voicemail or shoot us a text for comments, guest appearance, or feedback, you can text or call 682-730-200 one.

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We’re wrapping up our Pride series and celebrating the end of Pride Month in a powerful way—with none other than the amazing advocate for both the LGBTQ+ and blind communities, Chris Walker . Chris is currently the Vice President of the NFB Winchester Chapter of Virginia and will soon step back into the role of President this coming September.

Chris shares his incredible story of resilience, strength, and purpose. In this heartfelt episode, he opens up about: • Losing his vision in just three weeks • Finding life-changing resources and learning how to navigate his new world • Losing two partners and how he continues to carry their love with him • Being adopted and what that journey meant to him • Becoming a voice for change in the blind and LGBTQ+ communities • His love for cooking and creating connection through food • His work as a proud Lion in his local community This episode is a powerful reminder that no matter what life throws your way, you can rise, thrive, and lead with love and purpose. Chris is living proof of that. Be sure to listen all the way through and grab his contact info if you’d like to connect!

Vic and Rena also talk about their exciting week, including a magical experience at The Lion King play in Dallas, where they participated in a special touch tour. They’ll be in Dallas at the ACB Convention representing the DFW Virtual Lions Club —come find them if you’re in town! Connect with Us: 📍 Facebook: Shades of Pride with Vic and Rena 📍 YouTube: Shades of Pride on YouTube 📧 Email: shadesofpridepod@gmail.com 📲 Text or leave us a message: 682-730-2001 Join the Community: 🌈 All VIP Lesbian Women’s Facebook Group: Join here 🦁 Interested in joining our Virtual Lions Club for blind and visually impaired individuals and persons with disabilities? Email us and we’ll get you connected! 📚 Book Club + Women’s WhatsApp Group: Open to all the shades of the rainbow! Reach out and we’ll send you the details.

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It wouldn’t be Pride without celebrating our best friends—the ones who hold us down daily, the ones we can count on, and the ones we talk to before the day even begins.

In this heartwarming and laughter-filled episode, Vic and Rena sit down with their two best friends, Brandi and Andrea. Though they’ve only known each other for three years, the bond feels like a lifetime. These incredible women open up about their lives, friendship, and love. Andrea shares her journey through grad school as she pursues her rehabilitation counseling degree, while Brandi gives insight into her life working in customer service on a military base.

The conversation dives into long-distance love, careers, obstacles, and how they’ve all made their relationships and friendships thrive. You’ll laugh, you might tear up, and you’ll definitely feel the love. This episode is a celebration of connection, sisterhood, and what it means to find your chosen family.

Check out Brandi’s blog: https://withgraceandacane.wordpress.com Follow us on Facebook: [ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575048897727

Subscribe to our YouTube channel: [ https://youtube.com/@shadesofpridewithvicrena?si=U6pNEpgxZ8k1uNHr

Want to leave us a voicemail or text with your thoughts, feedback, topic ideas, or just to say hello—or if you’re interested in being a guest? Call or text us at 682-730-2001

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In this deeply spiritual and emotionally charged episode of The Shades of Pride with Vic and Rena , your favorite wives return with powerful insight, raw vulnerability, and unwavering love for the community.

✨ Rena opens up about a recent spiritual encounter and how both Vic and Rena are embracing crystals, mantras, and energy work on their healing journey. 💬 They explore the reality of feeling invisible in the LGBTQ+ community , diving into how blindness, race, and stigma impact their daily lives. 🛡️ Despite these challenges, Vic and Rena offer heartfelt encouragement, affirmations, and motivation —sharing how they continue to stand tall, speak up, and live out loud .

🔍 The duo also covers current events, including the tragic shooting of the King of the Hill actor—calling it what it is: a hate crime . They reflect on the rising risks surrounding Pride parades , the importance of traveling smart and staying safe , and how they continue to celebrate without letting fear steal their joy.

❤️ Plus: • Real-life stories from their journey • Motivational affirmations for your week • An invitation to join their listener spotlight • A warm introduction to their Virtual Lions Club —a space to give back and serve with pride 📨 We Want to Hear From You! Send us your quotes, questions, topics, or thoughts. You can remain anonymous —just let us know! You might be featured on our next Listener Spotlight . 🔗 Connect With Us • 🌈 Facebook Podcast Page: The Shades of Pride with Vic and Rena • 🦁 Virtual Lions Club: Click here to learn more and get involved • 📺 YouTube Channel: @shadesofpridewithvicrena • 📬 Email: Shadesofpridepod@gmail.com 🎉 Join Our Virtual Pride Gathering! Hang out with your hosts Vic and Rena and celebrate Pride together on June 28 at 7 PM CST . RSVP on our Events Page through our Facebook podcast page or email us at Shadesofpridepod@gmail.com and we’ll make sure you get the Zoom info.

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Pride Is Our Power: Kicking Off Pride with Jess Welcome to our very first Pride Month episode of Shades of Pride with Vic & Reena ! 🌈

In this special kickoff episode, we’re joined by a dear friend and phenomenal guest, Jess. The three of us sit down to celebrate Pride with open hearts and full spirits. Together, we share what Pride means to each of us—beyond the parades and rainbows.

Jess opens up about her powerful coming out story, navigating life through college and adulthood, and stepping into motherhood through her IUI/IVF journey. You may want to grab a box of Kleenex while listening to this episode! She’s not just a mom and friend—she’s a bold voice in the LGBTQ+ community, and we are so honored to share space with her.

This episode is filled with love, laughter, truth, and Pride in its purest form. Whether you’re out, coming out, or still figuring it all out—you are welcome here.

🎧 Want to be a guest this Pride Month? We would love to hear your story and invite you to sit down at the table with us.

📩 Email us: shadesofpridepod@gmail.com

💬 Send your Q&A or topic suggestions—we’d love to include your voice! Connect with us:

📘 Facebook: Shades of Pride

📺 YouTube: @shadesofpridewithvicrena

Let’s celebrate Pride. Let’s celebrate your power. ✨

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In this powerful and personal episode, Vic and Rena open up about the transformative role of emotional intelligence in navigating conflict, especially within relationships, friendships, and chosen families. From storytelling rooted in raw vulnerability to practical insights on healing through communication, this heart-to-heart explores how self-awareness, empathy, and intentional love can strengthen connections — even in the hardest moments.

Whether you’ve experienced growing pains in your own relationships or you’re on a journey of emotional growth, this episode is packed with affirmations, wisdom, and community-centered support.  ✨ Announcements & Community Invites: 🌈 Join Our Women’s LGBTQ+ Group Looking for a safe, supportive space to connect with other LGBTQ+ women? Join our growing community on Facebook: 👉 https://www.facebook.com/groups/838933940231949/ 🦁 Interested in Advocacy & Service? We’re proud to be part of the Virtual Blind and Visually Impaired and Persons with Disabilities Lions Club . If you’re interested in joining, email us at: 📧 dfwvirtuallions@gmail.com 📣 Upcoming Event – Mark Your Calendars! Join us on Saturday, May 24th, from 11 AM to 1 PM CST for the NFB Dallas Chapter’s NEWSLINE Event via Zoom. Topic: Using NFB-NEWSLINE® to Live and Work the Way You Want Discover career insights and hear from blind and visually impaired professionals sharing their journeys and answering your questions. 🔗 Zoom Link : https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89252589034?pwd=LHBIZbGpPzNiKxwGCLSNCeQau1VcDs.1  🎧 Stay Connected with Shades of Pride: 📍 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575048897727 📺 YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@shadesofpridewithvicrena?si=U6pNEpgxZ8k1uNHr 📬 Email Us: shadesofpridepod@gmail.com  💬 Thanks for tuning in and sharing space with us. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. Healing is a journey — and we’re in it together.

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In this short and soul-nourishing episode, Vic takes us on a peaceful morning walk, hoping to beat the rain while reconnecting with nature and mental clarity. With birds flying overhead, dogs barking in the distance, and the trail under her feet, Vic shares a heartfelt reminder: you matter too. Mental awareness starts with self-care, and this episode is your gentle nudge to take time for yourself—no matter how busy life gets.

🌤️ Whether it’s planning out your self-care time on your phone calendar, treating yourself to a relaxing walk, or indulging in a homemade scrub, this episode is a reminder that “me time” is not optional—it’s essential.  🧖🏽‍♀️ Vic’s Favorite DIY Salt Scrub Recipe: ✨ Relax, replenish, and rejuvenate with this calming scrub! • 1 cup Epsom salt (for magnesium and detoxing) • ½ cup coconut oil (deep moisturizing) • 10 drops lavender essential oil (calming) • 5 drops eucalyptus essential oil (refreshing and soothing) 💌 Want more scrub recipes or a custom-made one? Need help fitting self-care into your schedule? Vic is here to help—just reach out!  📝 Takeaway Tips from This Episode: • Schedule “you time” like any other appointment. Use your planner or digital calendar. • Walks in nature can be powerful mental therapy. • Even 10 minutes a day of intentional stillness or care can change your mindset. • DIY bath scrubs are a fun, nourishing way to show your body love. • You are worthy of rest. You are worthy of space.  📲 Connect With Us: 🔗 Facebook: Shades of Pride on Facebook 🎥 YouTube: Shades of Pride with Vic & Rena 📧 Email: shadesofpridepod@gmail.com (We’d love to hear from you—or have you as a guest!)  🦋 Take care of you. We’re walking this journey with you—one trail, one breath, one step at a time. #ShadesOfPride #MentalAwareness #SelfCareJourney #WalkWithVic #LightOfTheJourney #PodcastHealing #DIYScrub #YouTime #NatureTherapy 

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In this heartfelt Mother’s Day episode, Vic and Rena are joined by their amazing son, YJ, for a powerful and emotional celebration of motherhood in all its forms. From biological moms to chosen moms, single moms, blind moms, new moms, and every inspiring woman who’s made a difference — this episode is our love letter to you.

We share personal stories of the moms who raised us, influenced us, and stood beside us in the toughest moments. YJ opens up about being raised by two moms, navigating bullying, and how he found confidence and strength in his unique journey. We also unpack some of the strange and insensitive things people say — and how to rise above them.

Whether you’re a mom, love a mom, or have been mothered by someone who changed your life, this episode is for you. In This Episode: • Shout-outs to all types of moms and maternal figures • Real talk about motherhood, identity, and stereotypes • YJ’s story of growing up with two moms and facing challenges with courage • Encouragement for single moms, blind moms, and moms who are breaking barriers • A celebration of resilience, love, and the power of being unapologetically YOU Connect With Us: • Facebook: Shades of Pride on Facebook • Email: shadesofpridepod@gmail.com • https://youtube.com/@shadesofpridewithvicrena?si=ph_LWpt9m3I8T-kC YouTube: Subscribe to our channel Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe — and shout out your favorite moms in the comments! 

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This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-eb2089 for 40% off for 4 months, and support The shades of pride with Vic & Rena.