The Mama's Den

In this special crossover episode, The Mama’s Den links up with The Gin & Juice Podcast—hosted by powerhouse sisters and moms, Mel Goolsby and Melissa Fredericks. Together, we dive into how these two turned life’s curveballs into purpose and profit. After being laid off on maternity leave 2022, Mel built a thriving social media platform called "I'm Not A Lawyer, But" while Melissa stood beside her—both in sisterhood and entrepreneurship—as they launched their hit podcast, Gin & Juice. 

At a time when so many are navigating job loss and reinvention, this conversation is a reminder that someti...

Husband and father of two, Sean Patrick Thomas, is in The Mama's Den talking about the emotional experience parenting 15 and 17-year olds who are making some very grown up decisions about their lives, feeling proud of how he and his wife, Aonika, have raised them, and playing a grieving father in season two of the Amazon Prime series Gen V. Buckle up because this episode has laughs, tears, incredible parenting lessons, and even some roti and curry! (You'll get that later.)

REMEMBER: If you're in Atlanta on November 3rd, come see The Mamas live! https://citywinery.com...

This week, the mamas are talking about self scrutiny and the public scrutiny of women - Yes, we're talking about Ayesha Curry. But we are also talking about Codie's eldest's recent birthday, Ashley's anniversary, and the realities of all the mamas still being in transition. As always - this is a safe space. We all deserve the space and grace to grow, evolve, and speak our truth. So bring your mom guilt and insecurities and let's worth through them together! 

REMEMBER: If you're in Atlanta on November 3rd, come see The Mamas live! https://citywinery.com/atlanta/e...

Forgive us for being all "woo woo" but we are in our feelings this week as we catch up 1 month after Melanie's move. We read your messages and comments on every platform and couldn't leave our Mama's Den fam hanging on the morning commute. This week, we discuss our recent transitions and the impact of change on family dynamics, the importance of supportive relationships, the even power of manifestation. Tap in with us as we embrace some beautiful changes TOGETHER!

And if you're in Atlanta on November 3rd, come see us live! https://citywinery.com/atlanta/events...

This episode is a little different than most.....OK, a lot different. We snuck into our studio over the weekend just two days before Melanie was set to move her whole family across the country because we wanted to deliver a message to YOU! Things are changing in the Den, but like motherhood, we adapt. Make sure you're following the podcast on all platforms for updates on new episodes, live shows, and community events!

And if you're in Atlanta on November 3rd, come to our live show! https://citywinery.com/atlanta/events/the-mamas-den-podcast-live-6vpkv0

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This summer, we said hello to the Mama's Den village as a party of 3 and we are running this episode back for everyone new to the Den AND because in exactly 7 weeks, Melanie, Ashley, and Codie will be LIVE in Atlanta at City Winery. Get to know where we've been, who we are, and how we are rolling with the changes 2025 has brought us.

Now more than ever, these mamas are juggling motherhood, entrepreneurship, and personal growth - still doing their best to choose joy and lean on community. If you’re out here doing the best wi...

Get ready for a crash course in sex ed! Sexologist and certified sex educator Shan Boodram breaks down what healthy sexual development looks like for kids and teens. From teaching body awareness to navigating first crushes, romantic relationships, and intimacy - Shan shares how to have open, age-appropriate conversations with your children. Trigger Warning: the conversation also offers advice and insights around sexual assault and how to empower children to speak up. This episode is packed with tools and resources to help parents guide their kids through one of the most important (and often overlooked) parts of growing up.<...

The Mamas are joined by Charles Johnson, single dad and founder of the nonprofit 4Kira4Moms. After losing his wife Kira during childbirth, Charles turned his pain into purpose - advocating (all the way to Congress) to end maternal mortality while navigating the hardship and humor of raising his two sons. In this episode, Charles gets real about solo parenting, finding work-life balance, and building the village it takes to do it all. He reminds us that joy and grief can live in the same house - and that showing up for your kids and your purpose is a...

Would you rather your kid have lice…or the stomach flu?? In this episode, the Mamas play a game of Would You Rather? - unpacking everything from funny hypotheticals to real-life boundaries and the many messy moments in parenting. It’s a lighthearted convo full of laughs, real talk, and proof that every mama has her own way of handling motherhood in the wild.

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We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com.

Make sure you connect with our Mamas:

Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls

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Candice Bolden, entrepreneur and former professional dancer, opens up about her journey with PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) - from battling weight gain and skin issues to being told she’d struggle to conceive. With lots of research, faith, and support from her husband, ex-NFL player Omar Bolden, Candice reversed her symptoms through major lifestyle changes - and now they’re proud parents to a baby girl! This episode is a powerful reminder that you can take control of your health and how motherhood can inspire a whole new mindset.

Check out The Mama's Den episode with Candice's husb...

AD, reality TV star and podcast host, joins the Mamas to dish on going from a heartbreak on Love is Blind to finding her happily-ever-after on Perfect Match - where she met her fiancé, Ollie Sutherland. Now expecting their first child (we’re screaming!), AD spills all the tea on her pregnancy body changes, planning two weddings, and how she’s carrying her biggest life lessons into motherhood and marriage. The Mamas swap wisdom on breastfeeding, postpartum, and building a partnership...showing that no matter how you become a mama - self-care, support, and communication are everything.

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We are running back a popular episode where Melanie, Ashley, and Codie break down a list of one-liners they found on social media that make parenting a little easier, like “you gotta do what you need to do, before you get to do what you wanna do” (a Melanie Fiona original). They also discuss teaching their kids about respect, validating their emotions while disciplining them, and giving kids autonomy in making decisions — even when they want to cuss! Throughout the convo, the mamas get a few surprise phone calls that tie right into a heartfelt Listener Letter — this is an episo...

Y'all welcome to this oldie but goodie - we are throwing it back to an conversation that brought out some feelings. Mamas, we often celebrate others and stress ourselves out over our kids' birthdays but, in this episode, Codie, Ashley, and Melanie discuss the value of experiences versus parties, embracing getting older, and Ashley annual emotional response to her birthday......She opens up about the difficulties of having a birthday around the holidays and how her birthday celebrations have evolved since losing her sister.

So Village, what is your ideal birthday celebration? How do you celebrate and...

This is a timeless episode from a time when a then 5-year old Asiyah asked Ashley "What do you want to be when you grow up?" Ashley was not pleased! Codie, Melanie, and Ashley are talking about what it means to be "just" a mother - and more. The Mamas also explore what it means to truly be living in your purpose and supporting your kids’ decisions despite what you may want for them!

So, Mama's Den Village, are you fulfilling your childhood dreams or did you figure out your purpose later in life? Let us know yo...

We are running it back to this fun conversation from 2023....We all know social media sparks a lot of conversations these days. So Codie, Ashley, and Melanie are giving their opinions about a post shared on Instagram that listed 5 things parents should do if they want to have a secure relationship with their children. The Mamas also talk about holding space for their children’s emotions and reflect on their relationships with their own mothers.

Mama's Den Village, do you agree with the 5 steps of having a secure relationship with your child? Do you have another step yo...

Is your kid’s bedtime routine a sweet dream…or a beautiful nightmare? In this episode, the Mamas are joined by Brandi Jordan - pediatric sleep specialist, postpartum doula, lactation consultant, and professional baby whisperer. Brandi breaks down how sleep actually works, from healthy newborn sleep habits to setting boundaries with big kids who still crawl into your bed. She talks about dream feeds, developmental milestones, co-sleeping vs. the cry-it-out method, and how to create the right environment for restful sleep - for your little ones and yourself. Because yes, Village, your sleep matters too.

Check out Brandi’s age...

A few weeks ago, we dropped Mama’s Den Reintroduction Part 1 - if you missed it, go run that back! In Part 2, we pick up where we left off…but this time, we’re officially down one Mama. Codie, Ashley, and Melanie open up about Felicia’s decision to step away from the show to pursue her next chapter (we love you and love this for you, Fee!). The Mamas also get real about where they are now - juggling motherhood, entrepreneurship, and personal growth - while doing their best to choose joy and lean on community. If you’re out her...

Bozoma Saint John is a Badass Mama! From single motherhood to climbing the corporate ladder as a marketing exec, launching her hair brand Eve by Boz, and starring on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills - Boz has done it all! But behind the glam is a woman shaped by hard-earned lessons in self-love, loss, and unstoppable growth. In this episode, Boz opens up about losing a child, becoming a widow, and being a Black woman in the boardroom...and how these moments empowered her to stand on business in every role she takes on. Through it all, Boz has not...

We recently put out a listener survey and the results are in...y’all want more from the Mamas! So in this episode, while Felicia’s off handling her business (we’re so proud of you, Fee!), Codie, Melanie, and Ashley reintroduce themselves, reflecting on how they became the women and mothers they are today. From unplanned pregnancies and navigating pregnancy without health insurance, to finding purpose in motherhood and building community through The Mama’s Den - the Mamas open up about why honest conversations matter and why they keep showing up for the Village.

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Grammy-winning singer, author, and mama Victoria Monét is in the Den! Victoria opens up about how motherhood has shifted her mindset - from navigating the stigma of being pregnant in the music industry to guarding her joy, mastering time management, and finding inspiration for her hit song “On My Mama.” Victoria and the Mamas also talk about the power of having a village, and why leading by example and leaving a legacy matters. Plus, Victoria shares the story behind her new children’s book, Everywhere You Are - a beautiful picture book about the unbreakable connection between kids and their...

Dr. Arlene Hollingsworth - psychologist, Youtube creator, and mama of three - shares how she and her husband, Javoris (PhD), turned a family dream into Gracie’s Corner - the viral YouTube series that celebrates Black culture through animated kids’ songs. But the road wasn’t easy! From failed businesses and financial stress to finding their way as a family during the pandemic, Arlene reflects on how staying rooted in their purpose led to their breakout hit, The Phonics Song. This episode is for every parent chasing a dream while raising little ones - proof that with patience and resili...

In this episode, the Mamas confess about the struggle of teaching kids good hygiene. Because baby! Keeping the house clean and dealing with ashy, stinky bodies is tough — and tough situations call for tough love. Hear how the Mamas are trying to instill responsibility and independence… without completely losing their cool.

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We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com.

Make sure you connect with our Mamas:

Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls

Codie - @codieco

Felicia - @felicialatour

Melanie - @m...

Stylist Bec Gross joins the Mamas to drop her favorite tips for feeling cute and confident in your clothes - especially for moms learning to love their postpartum bodies. From embracing your shape and dressing for your size, to building a wardrobe with key staples, Bec’s here to help you rediscover your personal style. If you’re trying to be outside this season, Bec’s got the fashion hacks to make sure you look good and feel good!

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We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com.<...

Producer, Actor, Choreographer, and Momager - Brittany Perry-Russell is THAT GIRL! From dancing with icons like Ciara and Beyoncé to raising a successful kid actor (Isaiah Russell-Bailey), Brittany joins the Mamas to discuss managing her son’s career while still chasing her own dreams. There’s no blueprint for motherhood, but for Brittany, being spirit-led has always kept her aligned with a higher purpose. If you’ve ever thought about giving up on your own dreams, this episode is your reminder to keep going - because Brittany is the Momager who’s survived the hustle, come out on top, and still...

Kerry Washington is in the Den! The Emmy-winning actress, activist, and mom of three joins the Mamas to talk about her latest film, Shadow Force, and what it’s like to play a badass mom on-screen while navigating wife-and-mom life behind the scenes.

Kerry gets real about everything from her parenting partnership with her husband, Nnamdi Asomugha, to the moment she learned her father isn’t her biological dad - and how that revelation reshaped her personal and professional journey. Kerry and the Mamas also dive into what it takes to build a support system (it's okay to a...

School’s almost out and summer’s almost here! In this episode, the Mamas share their summer break plans for the months ahead. From sports camps and play dates, to family vacations and lazy days at home - the Mamas break down how they balance keeping the kids busy and letting them chill.

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We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com.

Make sure you connect with our Mamas:

Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls

Codie - @codieco

Felicia - @felicialatour

Me...

In this episode, we’re missing Felicia - one-fourth of our quartet. We miss you Fee! So Codie, Melanie, and Ashley get real about when they disagree with their husbands on parenting decisions - from routines and discipline to visions for their kids’ futures. The Mamas share the importance of self-awareness, how they compromise with their partners, and how sometimes, you just have to pick their battles...Don’t worry fellas, Ashley holds it down for the husbands’ point-of-view! This one’s a good convo for both sides!

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We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts o...

The Mamas are joined by Blair Imani, creator of Smarter in Seconds, to talk about everything from working at Planned Parenthood to going viral in 2020 with her powerful, bite-sized videos. She also opens up about her experience with pregnancy loss and how she's currently trying to conceive (complete with a hot pregnancy tip from her auntie!).

In honor of Black Maternal Health Week, Blair schools us on reproductive justice, and how to better support Black women and mothers for stronger maternal health outcomes. Get ready to take notes — Blair drops gems and resources you won’t want to m...

The Mamas welcome Julian Saavedra, Assistant Principal and host of The Opportunity Gap podcast, to discuss learning differences in kids of color and how to support their unique needs. Julian highlights the importance of de-stigmatizing special education, having open conversations with your child about their school experience, and building relationships with administrators to advocate for your child’s success. With Julian’s guidance - and the work of Understood.org - underserved communities can take advantage of the tools available to help kids not only survive but thrive in school and help close the gap.

Learn more: Underst...

We got a Doctor in the Den! Psychiatrist, researcher, and author Dr. Judith Joseph joins the Mamas for a powerful convo about high-functioning depression, grief, and the struggle to find joy in daily life. Dr. Judith keeps it real about her own experience with depression and explains the high-functioning challenges faced by high-achieving women, particularly Black women. If you’ve ever felt the pressure to have it all together while struggling silently, you’re not alone - and this episode is for you!

Dr. Judith's book, High Functioning: Overcome Your Hidden Depression and Reclaim Your Joy, is avai...

We got a Daddy in the Den! Actor and father of two, Michael Ealy, joins the Mamas to talk about raising a boy and a girl. Together, they highlight the value of fathers being involved in their kids’ lives (to all the dads at ballet class - we see you!), the importance of communication between parents, and the need to appreciate each parent’s role. Michael shares lessons learned, from recognizing double standards (why are girls called sassy but boys are assertive?) to reminding us that dads juggle the same challenges moms do.

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This episode kicks off with a round of We’re Not Really Strangers - a fun card game designed to spark meaningful conversations. What starts as a friendly Q&A turns XXX-rated (because Ashley….surprise, surprise...). Then, the Mamas dive into a show-and-tell of their favorite kids’ books, celebrating new releases from fellow Black mamas and authors: Tabitha Brown (Hello There, Sunshine), Tamron Hall (Harlem Honey), and Tika Sumpter (I Got It From My Mama). Get the scoop on all the books the Mamas love reading with their little ones - covering everything from diversity and equality to understanding emotio...

In this episode, the Mamas relive their unforgettable girls trip to NYC — a trip that almost didn’t happen after Melanie hurt her back! From sisterhood sleepovers and Brooklyn meetups, to all the family and friends who showed up for them, the Mamas take a moment to soak it all in. What a journey going from a podcast born during the pandemic to representing Black motherhood on national TV. We love to see it!

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Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com.

Make sure you connect with our Mamas:

Melanie, Ashley, and Codie are back in the Den! Even though Felicia’s out this week, she still makes a stunning appearance—be sure to check out the YouTube channel for the visual!

In this episode, the mamas break down a list of one-liners that make parenting a little easier, like “you gotta do what you need to do, before you get to do what you wanna do” (a Melanie Fiona original). They also discuss teaching their kids about respect, validating their emotions while disciplining them, and giving kids autonomy in making decisions — even when they want to curse...

Marnesha is in the Den! If you've listened to The Mamas long enough, you have heard Fee rave about her kids' behavioral coach, Marnesha Hall. She joined the ladies of The Mama's Den to break down what a behavioral coach is and the benefits of having one for your kids. This episode explains the differences between behavioral coaching and therapy, how parenting dynamics impact your kids, and provides some helpful strategies to outsmart your little ones during their most challenging moments. Get your stickers ready because Marnesha’s advice will help both you and your child fill up your st...

This week, the Mamas tackle Listener Letters on balancing romance, friendships, and managing meddling grandparents.

They get real about the struggles of keeping their dating life alive — because for some, dating has left the chat! — and they share fun ideas for a cute date night (or a little afternoon delight!). The Mamas also dive into the importance of setting boundaries when grandparents are doing the MOST, and discuss the challenge of holding onto old friendships while your kids' social life forces you to befriend other moms. Thanks to the Listener Letters because this episode is packed with prac...

If you’ve ever felt like you were stuck in the hard part of your story, Tabitha Brown is in The Mama's Den to remind you—it’s okay to put yourself first! Tab's journey is a masterclass in faith, being present, and trusting that your moment is coming—even when it feels impossible. This week, Tabitha gets real about the tough seasons in her marriage, the moments she and Chance weren’t sure they’d make it, and what it really took to rebuild their relationship. She also shares how losing her mother shaped her, how she went from struggl...

The Mamas reminisce about their journey to adding baby #2 (or babies #2 and #3 for Codie!), and share the ups and downs of managing the unique logistics and personalities that come with a growing family. From pregnancy stories to juggling schedules and sibling dynamics, this episode dives into the tools, challenges, and unforgettable memories that come with expanding your crew.

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Send any thoughts or questions for the mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com.

Make sure you connect with our Mamas:

Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls

Codie - @codieco

Felicia - @felicialatour

2025 is already doing the most! From navigating the impacts of the LA wildfires while parenting, to facing the realities of a new president, and trying to survive sleep amidst the middle of the night needs of kids, the Mamas discuss how - and if - they can find JOY when the world feels heavy.

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So Village, how do you find joy when your world is heavy? Let us know! Send any thoughts or questions for the mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com. 

Make sure you connect with our Mamas:

Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls

Are you happy with all of your accomplishments? Far too often, we find ourselves reflecting on everything we have done and have the nerve to think we haven’t done enough. But let’s get real, Mama’s Den family, sometimes getting up in the morning IS the accomplishment. It's easy to fall into the trap of believing that we should be further than where we are right now OR that it's too late to accomplish all the things and dreams we've had. The Mamas share not only what they accomplished, but what they had hoped to have done at thi...

The holidays are behind us and some of us are thinking "New Year, New Me" and whatnot. But when you have had a baby or two....or four, there can be challenges beyond just hitting the gym. So, The Mamas are running back an episode where we talked about our pre and post baby bodies. Hear what we think about everything from snapping back to diastasis recti, cosmetic surgery and more. This episode was recorded before Tata and Kaia were even born, so things have changed. But give it a listen and then tell us if you want us...

Ahhh, motherhood.....the new baby smell, the cuddles, the cute questions, sweet tiny voices saying I love you.....the 1000 questions at bedtime, dragging 3 carseats on vacation, paying thousands of dollars at an amusement park to stand in long lines at the bathroom more than actually ride rides.....What did you think motherhood was going to be???

Don’t worry, we will go first as we run it back to one of our all time favorite episodes about what we romanticized about motherhood before becoming moms.

Get in on the conversation and let us know over at...

In this BRAND NEW episode, alongside Victoria Jenn Rodriguez of Banking on Cultura, the Mamas recorded live from Miami to share what tradition means to us in 2024. Baybeee.....it ain't what it used to be. We don't feel the need to make everything perfect year after year but we are sharing the big and small things that do matter to us when the holidays arrive.

Mama's Den Village, what holiday traditions are important to you? Is there a specific story you want to share with us? Get in on the conversation and let us know over at p...

Want to know what we were like before we became moms? From the club - or stage - to jet setting, the Mamas of the Den are running it back to an early episode where we talked about our lives before becoming moms. It was a TIME! 

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We are in that post-Thanksgiving, not-yet-Christmas period where many of us are playing supermom trying to do it all, so we figured you could use a reminder from one of our favorite episodes that this is a season....the holiday season AND a season in your and your family's life. Whether it's our kids growing and evolving or us as adults in all of our complexity, y'all know the saying....The only thing constant in life is change.  Be present, learn what you can, and make the most of it. Most importantly - you are not alone! 

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It’s the holidays so we decided to go down memory lane to one of the first episodes we recorded introducing ourselves to our audience. We recorded this one before we decided on a name for our podcast - it’s so funny to play this one back. Ashley only had 3 kids and Melanie was a mom of 1! Melanie even shares the origin of her love story with Jared! We hope you enjoy listening to this one as much as we enjoyed revisiting it.

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The Mama's have a candid conversation with Dahn Ballard about her journey of raising her transgender child. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Author and attorney Erica Grace joins the Mamas to to provide valuable insight to anyone looking for advice on how to date a parent to develop healthy blended families. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Mama’s share their tips on how to navigate tough and awkward conversations with their little ones plus a listener letter from a mom who needs advice on how to have the sex talk. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Omar Bolden, host of the podcast "Nice and Neat," joins The Mama's Den to share his unique perspective as a new father. Omar discusses his parenting journey, the challenges and joys of being a dad, and the importance of creating spaces where men can be authentically themselves.

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The Mamas recorded live from the Black Love Summit in Los Angeles, jumping into a candid conversation about the importance of building communities where you can be seen and heard, especially during the journey of motherhood. From Melanie entering the music business without any pre-existing relationships, to Felicia and Ashley being the first of their friends to have babies, and Codie desire to explore Black love, the four of them discuss pressing past fear and anxiety to create what they seek.

The Mama’s Den live conversation at the Black Love Summit was presented by Akina Connect, an...

The Mama's are sharing inspiration to chase your dreams and live in your purpose. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hot flashes, body changes, mood swings…oh my! Dr. Kendra Segura is in the The Mama's Den to chat all things perimenopause and menopause.

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Actress and mother Tika Sumpter joins The Mama's to chat about her new podcast The Adventures of Curiosity Cove and everyone shares how their motherhood journey has inspired their creativity.

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Marriage & Family therapist and wife and mother of three, Nina Westbrook, is in the Mama’s Den and we’re talking about therapy, family, and how to heal from the trauma you may have experienced with your own mother, especially, when you enter motherhood.

Visit Nina's mental wellness platform Bene by Nina Westbrook at benebynina.com

And don't miss a new podcast we've tapped into to give us helpful insights on our parenting journey, Opportunity Gap: How to Support Kids of Color Who Learn Differently. Give it a listen here --> https://lnk.to/opportunitygapPS!them...

The Mamas are answering questions from none other than you all, the Village! Codie picked a handful of your questions and she, Ashley, Felicia and Melanie open up about how they all met, and how they manage making new friends while maintaining the old ones. The conversation goes a bit deeper when the Mamas express what they mean to one another and Ashley gets very candid about postpartum and the rules of teenage sleepovers! 

So Mama's Den Village, if you have a question you'd like to ask the Mamas, let us know over at podcasts@blacklove.com O...

You're going to want to listen to this one, Village! Melanie, Ashley, Codie, and Felicia talk about their feelings on plastic surgery, being pregnant, and medical integrity. Plus, you're going to want to stick around for our special guest today - Codie's husband, Tommy! Tommy joins the Mamas to answer one of Fee's pressing questions and share his opinion on having more kids.

So Mama's Den Village, how do you feel about plastic surgery? Do you have a story about your pregnancy or recovery you want to share with us? Get in on the conversation and let...

Summer is coming to an end... The Mamas are doing some girl chat and checking in with each other on mom guilt and how we manage it all.

And don't miss a new podcast we've tapped into to give us helpful insights on our parenting journey, Opportunity Gap: How to Support Kids of Color Who Learn Differently. Give it a listen here --> https://lnk.to/opportunitygapPS!themamasden

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Before we were mothers, we looked at things a little differently. These are our honest opinions now that our lives have changed.

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The Mama's chat about how to handle when your child asks for a cell phone and access to social media.

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Marie Telusma aka Blue Centric is joining The Mama’s Den this week with tips on how to embrace the change you’re entering into a new chapter in your life. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CMS Administrator, Chiquita Brooks-LaSure is in the den to give the details on what the current administration is doing to combat the maternal healthcare crisis in the US.

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Hey Mama’s Den family! Our ladies are out this week, but you’re in for a special treat today because we want to introduce you to our friend Lizzy Mathis, TV host, former model, mama of 3, COOL MOM, and host of The Cool Mom Code podcast!  Every week, Lizzy invites some of the coolest and most influential moms around to have candid convos about their journey before kids and after: how has motherhood impacted, elevated, or even imploded their relationships, career and all the in between. Her guest this week is the one, the only, mama of 4 and our s...

Celebrity hairstylist Angela C.Stevens, is joining The Mama’s Den to talk about life as a new mom, black women's hair care, as well as her children's book, “Hair.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Elaine Welteroth has joined the Mamas to chat about her new initiative BirthFund, to show love to midwives, and to answer a critical question in new friendships.....to FaceTime or not to FaceTime.

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Ashley Blaine Featherson-Jenkins is in the Den to talk about her journey with IVF, plus each Mama lets her know what she can look forward to as a new mom.

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While Ashley is out this week, Codie, Felicia, and Melanie are talking about the good and challenging parts about being a boy mom....and should Mama's Boys really get a bad wrap?

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The Mamas took a quick road trip to Yaamava’ Resort & Casino to take a break from the kids and enjoy some much needed rest and relaxation with a few of their friends.  In their first live recording, listen in as they talk about the importance of friendships, and building your tribe to have your back when you’re raising dem babies. You'll also hear the voices of Tai Beauchamp, Angel Laketa Moore, and Cassandra Freeman.

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Karen Derrico, mom of the TLC show Doubling Down with The Derrico's joins the Mama’s to talk about the upcoming season and how they make it work with 14 children.

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Latham Thomas, founder of Mama Glow is joining The Mama’s Den to talk about self care, wellness and the work she’s doing to advocate for Mama’s everywhere.

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This week the Mama’s talk through how to deal when your little one gets rejected.

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This week in the Mama's Den is OBGYN Dr. Kendra, answering questions about fibroids, when to take your daughters to see an OB and finding the right birth control.

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If only we knew "this" before becoming Mamas, but now that we do, hopefully this helps a mama, auntie, or anyone raising up a child. 

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We're sharing tips on how to navigate the children's schedules with all these extra curricular activities.

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We’re using this episode to bring awareness to Black Maternal Health Week with midwife/doula and founder of Kindred Spaces LA Kim Durdin.

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Whether you have a career or you’re staying home with the kids – let’s face it, moming is still a 24hr job with no PTO. Also don't forget to support Mama Ashley, her book The Forever Journey drops on April 2nd!

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Crying, lying and parenting -- The Mama's talk through all the things that helped to define their parenting styles to raise these chilrennn oh and we shed a few tears.

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This week the mama's are talking about how to navigate the questions of spirituality and religion with our little ones and how our personal beliefs play a role in our parenting.

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The mama’s share their tips on what they do to school their little ones on the value of a dollar. 

Our friends at the podcast Good Moms Bad Choices are going on tour.  Go to https://goodmomsbadchoices.com/tour  for more info! 

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Now that we are adults, here's the conversation we’d tell our younger selves.

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We’re back Mama’s, 2024 is already in full swing and we’re sharing our goals and intentions for the new year plus we get a reading from a numerologist, because you know how we like to look to the stars.

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Whether you love Mariah Carey as much as the mamas do, we hope you can appreciate the transformative experience Ashley, Melanie, Felicia, and Codie had seeing The Queen of Christmas together at the Hollywood Bowl. Special shoutout to Ashley who made it all happen! Today, we recap the experience, discuss the value of friendships, old and new, and the impact music has on us and our inner children. Plus, Melanie opens up about an emotional experience she had with her mom at the concert...you might need some tissues for that one!

So Mama's Den Village, how...

Let's be honest, Village, today was chaotic but we got there! The Mamas get into all things marriage & partnership. Fee, Codie, Melanie, and Ashley discuss how to move through challenges with your partner, which relationships they look to for inspiration, and what it means to choose your partner. While they all have different relationships and perspectives, they're all in agreement that in every marriage - you have to just do you!

So Village, how do you face challenges in your marriage? Are there certain relationships you look up to? Get in on the conversation and l...

Get your tissues, Village. Things get a little emotional on this episode as Codie, Ashley, and Melanie talk about the dynamics of adult friendships, self-awareness... and half-marathons. Two of the Mamas even work through a conflict in their own friendship and shed a few tears along the way. But it's important to note, no matter what anybody thinks, know that you're capable of doing whatever you set your mind to Mamas!

Mama's Den Village, how do you resolve issues in your adult friendships? Is there a specific story you want to share with us? Get in on...

Welcome back Mamas, today is all about birthdays! Codie, Ashley, and Melanie discuss how they celebrate their children's birthdays, the value of experiences over parties, and embracing getting older. Plus, as Ashley's birthday approaches, she opens up about the difficulties of having a birthday around the holidays and how her birthday celebrations have evolved since losing her sister.

So Village, what is your ideal birthday celebration? How do you celebrate and embrace getting a year older? Get in on the conversation and let us know over at podcasts@blacklove.com OR you can fill out our form...

Felicia's back, Village! So it's only right she gives all the tea - and revelations - from her trip to Thailand. The Mamas also get into their perspectives on letting your partner take care of everything, spirituality within your family, and feeling mom guilt while away from your children. While Fe, Codie, Ashley and Melanie all have different points of view, they're in agreement that every Mama deserves to make time for herself (and her partner) without the children from time to time!

So Village, have you taken a big trip without your children? If s...

Okay Mamas, social media sparks a lot of conversations these days. So Codie, Ashley, and Melanie are giving their opinions about a post shared on Instagram that listed 5 things parents should do if they want to have a secure relationship with their children. The Mamas also talk about holding space for their children’s emotions and reflect on their relationships with their own mothers.

Mama's Den Village, do you agree with the 5 steps of having a secure relationship with your child? Do you have another step you would add to the conversation? Let us know your point of...

What’s happening, Mamas? Felicia is in Thailand living her best life while Codie, Melanie, and Ashley are talking about what it means to be just a mother - and more. The Mamas also explore what it means to truly be living in your purpose and supporting your kids’ decisions despite what you may want for them!

So Village, are you fulfilling your childhood dreams or did you figure out your purpose later in life? Let us know your point of view over at podcasts@blacklove.com OR you can fill out our form. PLUS you can always...

Let’s be honest Village, life can be hard. But understanding our own emotions and verbalizing how we're feeling can make some days a lot less difficult. In this episode, the Mamas discuss their perspectives on learning about themselves through their children, how they show their emotions in different situations, and how their astrological chart comes into play with who they are.

The Mamas also dive deep into navigating friendships through different growth paths. And we can’t forget to shout out Ashely and her husband, Chea, as they celebrate their 8-year wedding anniversary!

Mama’s Den...

Welcome back Village! As Halloween approaches, the Mamas discuss their family costumes, traditions, and what decorating looks like at their house (or lack thereof). Codie, Ashely, and Felicia even convert Melanie into the Halloween spirit! But an interesting debate begins when Ashley mentions she’s really just ready for Christmas and Mariah Carey! 

So Mama’s Den Village, what does Halloween look like in your household? Do you have an iconic family costume idea you want to share with us? Let us know over at podcasts@blacklove.com OR you can Fill out our form. PLUS y...

What’s up Village? Are you experiencing a shift with how you parent? Codie, Ashley, Felicia and Melanie definitely are as the mamas give their different perspectives on the ever-changing balancing act of navigating their children’s emotions. Plus Fe shares why we all might need to call a behavioral therapist!So Mama’s Den Village, what are your current parenting growing pains with your children? 

So Mama's Den Village, what's on your mind? Let us know over at podcasts@blacklove.com OR you can Fill out our form. PLUS you can always submit a DM over at  @th...

Mama's Den village! You've been asking and the Mama's are here to answer! What? Your questions. An Island Mama in Antigua (shout out to our international listeners!) needs some advice finding balance. Riley in Vegas needs help with setting up boundaries with her mother and with dealing with unsolicited parenting advice. Plus Yas in Atlanta is wondering what to do when looking for that connection with a god or higher power, but not necessarily with a specific religion.  

So Mama's Den Village, what's on your mind? Let us know over at podcasts@blacklove.com OR you can F...

How we doing Mamas? Let's count today as our check in because Felicia, Ashley & Melanie are talking about what they do to help explain their mental health needs to their children cause sometimes Mommy needs a mental health day. We have to be able to advocate for ourselves in a healthy way so our children know how to advocate for themselves in a healthy way! The ladies are going into speaking up, being true to who you are and teaching your children to do the same.  

So Mama's Den Village, do you need a mental health day? H...

After a short break our Mamas are back and Felicia has a question: What are we working on in our lives personally and professionally? From reconnecting with ourselves spiritually, to new coaches, new books and new music A LOT has changed. The one thing we do know, we are all soooo excited for our friends and this new season of growth for all of us.

So Mama's Den Village, what is new in your world? Let us know over at podcasts@blacklove.com OR you can Fill out our form. PLUS you can always submit a DM...

Are you new to the Mama's Den? Maybe you just don't know where to start? We know that some of y'all aren't going to go all the way back into our catalog to learn about all the Mamas. That's why we went deep into the vault (Think June 2021) to get access to the first episode of The Mama's Den ever recorded. We're talking about before we settled on a name! Listen in as our Mamas, Ashley Chea, Melanie Fiona, Felicia La Tour and Codie Elaine Oliver share their journeys to marriage, motherhood and every thought along the way.

Hey Mamas Den Village! We're going into the vault today for a NEVER BEFORE heard episode from June 2022. Why was it never heard? Well, so you can hear it now! Let's talk about submission? Is it a dirty word? Why do some women feel that it's a non-starter in relationships? What do our ladies (minus Codie who was out filming The Perfect Find which you can watch right now on Netflix), think about submission? How else does submission tie into other facets of love and relationships? 

If you have a question for the Mamas? Let us know s...

Hey Mama's Den Village! Our ladies are out this week, but we want to introduce you to our friend Charisse Sims and her podcast Parenting for the Culture! Charisse is a mama of 6 (!), wife, and early childhood educator who knows a little about the ins and outs of parenting and more specifically GENTLE PARENTING.

One common issue that keeps coming up is that "I just don't know where to start!" Look, that's valid. It seems like these days everyone has a different definition of what exactly gentle parenting is, AND Charisse isn't here to say that her...

A change in Felicia's co-parenting arrangement has her discovering more about who she is without being a full-time mother. This, in turn, has her wondering if the rest of the Mama's Den crew knows exactly who they are outside of motherhood and how they came to those realizations. PLUS what does it look like to try and find balance inside of motherhood with partners, fathers, and even the children? What are those expectations of what it is to be a mom? How are we handling the thought and concept (and occasional real feeling of) mom guilt?

Mama's...

Motherhood is a job! No really. If we weren't doing it, and in those moments where we can't watch the kids, we have to pay someone else to do it. It is a whole job! Now why is it that it doesn't get treated that way? Today, Ashley, Felicia, and Melanie (you gotta make sure you're following the Black Love socials to find out what Codie's been working on!) are speaking on not only that, but on finances in general. Prenups? Splitting the household finances? We're getting into all of it!

Mama's Den village what did you...

You will never have more patience than your child has, but you have to try.

Y'all Ashley has the bars today! Codie is out doing some super secret stuff (yall just need to follow @Blacklove on IG to keep up) and the ladies are talking about these babies. Sometimes it's hard when they're yelling at you and can't communicate in the ways that we, as parents, want them to. Fee shares what she has recently done to help make sure that Zen has all the tools he needs going forward that we think is a total game...