Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed April Lancit.

• Founder of a private therapy practice focused on culturally sensitive therapy for Black and Brown communities.
• Main Topics:
  • Cultural differences in therapy
  • Challenges in modern relationships and marriage
  • The impact of technology on human connection
  • The role of therapy in addressing generational trauma and stress
  • The future of therapy in the age of AI

💡 Key Insights 1. Culturally Sensitive Therapy

• April emphasizes the importance of therapists understanding the lived experiences of marginalized communities.
• Black and Brown clients often face unique challenges that require a nuanced, empathetic approach.

2. Modern Relationship Struggles

• Top issues in marriage therapy: finances, infidelity, and communication.
• Communication is often overlooked but is foundational to resolving other issues.

3. Technology & Disconnection

• The rise of remote living and digital communication is reducing opportunities for organic human interaction.
• Couples are increasingly using text messages—even within the same home—to communicate, which can erode intimacy.

4. Therapy as a Preventative Tool

• Therapy shouldn't be reserved for crises; it can be a proactive tool for personal and relational growth.
• Pre-marriage counseling is often skipped or done too late, missing key conversations about values, finances, and intimacy.

5. AI in Therapy

• April sees potential in AI as a supplementary tool but stresses it cannot replace the human connection essential to effective therapy.

🧠 Final Message

April encourages people to seek therapy not out of crisis, but as a way to grow and connect more deeply—with themselves and others. She remains hopeful that with intention and effort, society can rebuild meaningful human connections.

#SHMS #STRAW

#BEST

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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Monique Strong.

President of the Atlanta Chapter of the National Association of Black Women in Construction (NABWIC). Here's a breakdown of the key highlights and takeaways:

🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Breaking Barriers in Construction

• Monique Strong is a trailblazer in a traditionally male-dominated and white-dominated industry.
• She leads NABWIC’s Atlanta chapter, advocating for leadership, equity, and professional development for Black women in construction.

2. What “Construction” Really Means

• Construction isn’t just hard hats and manual labor—it includes:
  • General contracting
  • Project management
  • Estimating
  • Safety coordination
  • Architecture and engineering
  • Business ownership and development

3. Legacy and Inspiration

• Monique’s passion for construction was inspired by her grandfathers and her grandmother, who helped build the home she grew up in.
• Her journey includes a degree in engineering from Clark Atlanta University and further training in construction management.

4. Challenges and Triumphs

• Faced skepticism from family and industry peers.
• Overcame stereotypes and isolation as a young Black woman in construction.
• Emphasizes the importance of knowing who you are and embracing your identity as a woman in the field.

5. The Power of Mentorship and Community

• NABWIC provides a supportive network for women at all stages of their construction careers.
• Weekly calls, mentorship, and shared resources help members grow and succeed.

6. Why Diversity in Construction Matters

• Diversity reflects the makeup of the country and brings innovation and detail-oriented excellence to the field.
• Inclusion in leadership and contracting opportunities is essential for equity and community development.

💬 Notable Quotes

• “You don’t have to be hard. You just have to be hungry.”
• “We are the unicorns people are looking for.”
• “I like to take something that’s nothing and make it something.”

🎯 Advice for Women in Construction

• Get involved with a community like NABWIC that supports your growth.
• Seek mentorship from women at all stages—beginning, middle, and end of their careers.
• Embrace your uniqueness and use it to lead and innovate.

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST #AMI

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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Obi Obadike.

A world-class fitness and nutrition expert, about the importance of building healthy habits, realistic weight loss goals, and the truth behind diet myths. Obi emphasizes portion control, consistency, and education over quick fixes. He also discusses his supplement brand, Ethical Inc., co-founded with actor Morris Chestnut, and shares practical advice for sustainable health and wellness.

🧭 Key Points 1. Motivation vs. Habit

• Motivation gets you started, but habit keeps you going.
• The hardest part is showing up—once you start, the benefits become self-reinforcing.

2. Time and Prioritization

• Everyone has 24 hours; health must be prioritized like hygiene.
• Schedule workouts like appointments—don’t try to “fit them in.”

3. Small Goals, Big Results

• Focus on small, incremental goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
• Use analogies like “one game at a time” or “one chapter at a time” to stay motivated.

4. Weight Loss Basics

• Weight loss = caloric deficit (burn more than you consume).
• A 500-calorie daily deficit = ~1 pound/week; 1,000 = ~2 pounds/week.

5. Simplified Nutrition

• If calorie counting is overwhelming, use hand-based portion control:
  • Meals: size of two hands.
  • Desserts: size of one palm.
• Meals should include protein, complex carbs, and fibrous carbs (fruits/veggies).

6. Supplements and Ethics

• Obi’s company, Ethical Inc., focuses on clean, science-backed supplements.
• He stresses that supplements are optional if you eat a balanced diet.

7. Desserts and Cheat Meals

• You can enjoy desserts 1–2 times per week in moderation.
• Portion control is key—even for treats like Krispy Kreme donuts.

8. Realistic Expectations

• Healthy weight loss is 1–2 pounds per week.
• In 3 months, 25–30 pounds is a realistic and sustainable goal.

💬 Notable Quotes

“Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going.”

“You have 24 hours in a day. You’re telling me you don’t have 30 minutes to take care of your health?”

“Forget the vanity aspect—this is going to save your life.”

“You can’t overdose on broccoli.”

“If you’re eating in a balanced way, you don’t need supplements.”

“A dessert should not exceed the palm of your hand.”

“Small, incremental goals are the key to long-term success.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST #AMI

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