At Black Girl Magic headquarters, senior editors Cori Murray (@corimurray), Charli Penn (@ManWifeDog) and Yolanda Sangweni (@YoliZama) host ESSENCE’s podcast Yes, Girl! Every episode features interviews with celebrities, politicos, and influencers—plus unfiltered “Tea for the Week” discussions on pop culture, love and relationships, race, news and business. Basically, uplifting everybody who’s taking Black culture a little higher.
Ruth E. Carter Teaches Us How To Dress Like Royalty
Two months into 2021, and we're still at home, but we know we're not the only ones. At least we have streaming, food delivery, and podcasts (wink, wink) to keep us company. Speaking of streaming...lately, our Friday nights have been spent watching 90's and early 00's re-runs. That's why we're beyond excited for the return of Coming to America (available on Amazon Prime March 5th). It's the best of both worlds - old-school nostalgia and new content for the weekend.To get us in a regal state of mind, Academy Award-Winning Costume Designer, Ruth E. Carter, stopped by (virtually of course), to give Cori and Charli some tips, and share anecdotes about her 30-plus year career, styling some of our favorite celebrities for the most iconic movies.NOTE: This episode is sponsored by Crown Royal So, what's your favorite moment from the original Coming to America? Let us know, and be sure to use #yesgirlpodcast.Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli PennAudio: Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
2/25/2021 • 25 minutes, 38 seconds
Tessa Thompson and Aja Naomi King Spread Love (and Style) The Christmas Way
Bellas, we're back...well for a quick moment. It's been a while since we got together and we've missed you.Although 2020 has been a roller coaster of highs and lows, we had to end the year, and our podcast season, with some love. Actresses Tessa Thompson and Aja Naomi King (virtually) stopped by to reminisce on vintage Black excellence and share about their upcoming movie, Sylvie's Love (available on Amazon Prime December 23rd). Plus Cori and Charli say "see ya' 2020" and share their final quarantine thoughts for the year. Wanna share your goodbye message to 2020? Be sure to use #yesgirlpodcast.Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn Audio: Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
12/17/2020 • 55 minutes, 24 seconds
Janelle Monae Talks Rest As Resistance For Black Women
This week, we’re talking to singer, songwriter, businesswoman, and actress...THE Electric Lady herself -- Janelle Monae (@janellemonae), whose new movie Antebellum is out now on-demand. She chats with hosts, Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn) about why it’s time for Black women to put their capes down, and rest for a moment, even when a revolution is happening.Share your thoughts on social using #yesgirlpodcast.Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
9/26/2020 • 27 minutes, 36 seconds
Yes, Girl! Tributes Chadwick Boseman, The King
There has been and will be no one like him. On this special encore episode which originally aired on December 6, 2019, Cori and Charli spoke with the late Chadwick Boseman and 21 Bridges cast mate Stephan James , gleaning gems about his method and finding laughs along the way. Rest in power, King.Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
9/20/2020 • 33 minutes, 25 seconds
Do You Know How To Chase Your Passion?
This episode of Yes, Girl! Podcast is an #UnBossed Podcast Takeover! *Cue the airhorns!* Our ESSENCE Podcast Network sister, Marquita Harris had a very real conversation with Monika Johnson, Associate Vice President at Nationwide and Patrice Washington, CEO of Seek Wisdom Find Wealth about what it means to find and purse your passions and how to pivot when things (like a global pandemic) happen out of nowhere. Get into it and let us know what you think #UnBossedPodcast #YesGirlPodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
9/17/2020 • 36 minutes, 11 seconds
Tamron Hall Teaches Us How To Bet On Ourselves!
Broadcast news and daytime talk royalty Tamron Hall (@tamronhall) is here! And she breaks down what it means to be a trailblazer in journalism, why being raised by a village was so important for her, and what it really means to bet on yourself as a Black woman. Let us know what you think using #YesGirlPodcast on social!Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
9/15/2020 • 37 minutes, 1 second
John David Washington Casually Saves The World & We Head To THE PYNK With Nicco Annan!
THE John David Washington (@johndavidwashington) is here to talk all things The Tenet and building a legacy! Cori’s going to double-mask it and head to theaters to see it. And Nicco Annan (@alldaynicco) aka Uncle Clifford talks about everything from what strip clubs and church have in common to how good ARE strip club chicken wings? Get into this ki-ki! And hit us up on social to let us know what you think! #YesGirlPodcast Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
9/11/2020 • 53 minutes, 43 seconds
How Angelica Ross Gets Her GLOW!
Businesswoman. Trans rights activist. Actress. Author. She does it all and she looks good while doing it. On this episode, Angelica Ross (@angelicaross) aka Miss Ross spilled the deets on her skincare and her spiritual practice as well as the beautiful advice Laverne Cox offered early in her career. *sigh* We just can’t get enough of her zen vibe. Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
9/3/2020 • 48 minutes, 54 seconds
Lecrae Takes Us Soul Searching!
On this episode, we have a real soul-stirring conversation with the one-and-only LECRAE. (@lecrae) (whose new album ‘Restoration’ is out now!) about everything from the weight of learning in public to that time Beyonce inspired him to base jump. If you need some words of wisdom to boost your spirit, you REALLY don’t want to skip this episode.Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
8/27/2020 • 47 minutes, 39 seconds
A Blackity Black Podcast Party With Yes, Girl! And The Nod!
When Black podcast hosts get together, you know it’s a love fest. This week’s guests Brittany Luse (@bmluse) and Eric Eddings (@ejeddings) hosts of the wildly popular podcast, “The Nod” talk about everything from their new Quibi show to what they hope to tell their children about the year 2020!Use #YesGirlPodcast to join the party!Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)Social: Miranda Johnson (@randa_writes)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
8/20/2020 • 47 minutes, 57 seconds
Pandemic And All, Tasha Smith Is Living Her Best Life!
Suffice it to say, she's no shrinking violet. When you're in a room with Tasha Smith (@tashasmith4real), you know Tasha Smith is in the room. And we love that she brought that big, beautiful, affirming energy to Yes, Girl! On this episode she talks directing the binge-worthy P-Valley, loving on her acting students, and living life to the absolute fullest! We love it and we love her. Let us know what you think of the whole WORD she drops! #YesGirlPodcast Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)Social: Miranda Johnson (@randa_writes)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
8/13/2020 • 55 minutes, 23 seconds
Drinkin’ and Podcastin’ With Podcast Queen Tracy Clayton!
It's a Black Lady Pod Show when Tracy Clayton stops by. When the pod queen and host-extraordinaire join Cori and Charli on the mic, it's a recipe for an instant ki-ki. Y'all the stories were endless. From the time Tracey curtseyed at the White House (yep, that happened), to why it's always important to have the confidence of a “mediocre White man”, the conversation was non-stop. No one wanted to leave. Since her stint as co-host of Another Round, Tracy has been busy, baby! As host of Netflix's popular series Strong Black Lead and her latest show Mailchimp's Going Through It Podcast, there's no stopping anytime soon. Now that we’re done fanning out. Take a listen, and be sure to share your thoughts using #yesgirlpodcastAfter the episode, be sure to head over to Mailchimp's Going Through It Podcast, where the conversation continues with our own Cori Murray as a guest.Speaking of amazing Black female podcasters, be sure to also check out The Michelle Obama Podcast available now, exclusively on Spotify.Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)Social: Miranda Johnson (@randa_writes)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
8/6/2020 • 53 minutes, 11 seconds
Brandy's Back! Need We Say More?!
Like she never left - Brandy (@brandy) is here this week, y’all. We geeked and gushed because it’s BRANDY but we also chatted with her about her new and long-awaited album ‘B7’ which drops TOMORROW. Are y’all as ready as we are? She holds nothing back on this new record and she’s just as gracious and humble as ever. Check out the episode right now, and the new album tomorrow and then let us know what Brandy moment most influenced you! The braids? I Wanna Be Down? Cinderella? Mo-to-the-E-to-the? We want to know! #YesGirlPodcast Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)Social: Miranda Johnson (@randa_writes)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
7/30/2020 • 46 minutes, 10 seconds
Nia Long Is Unapologetically Black & Deserving Of Her Crown!
We won’t even hold you: NIA LONG (@iamnialong) IS HERE THIS WEEK! Can you say ‘Hollywood royalty’?! 👑💐 Not only is she chatting with us about her starring role in Netflix’s latest thriller, ‘Fatal Affair,’ Nia opens up about loving her Blackness, mental health in the Black community, and why she goes SO hard as a culture creator. You’ll want to tune ALL the way in to this episode! So adjust your crowns, and use #YesGirlPodcast to let us know what you love most about this queen!Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
7/21/2020 • 39 minutes, 21 seconds
Gratitude Is Tia Mowry’s Youth Serum!
Who better to discuss the reflection and wellness with than actress, mother, wife, businesswoman extraordinaire - Tia Mowry (@tiamowry)?! She’s a doll and gave us a good word and some homework around mastering our health journeys and aging like fine wine. From her battle with endometriosis to the health supplement she’s launched as a result - Tia drops SO many good nuggets of wisdom that we can’t wait for you to scoop up! Use #YesGirlPodcast to let us know some of the tips and practices that have improved your health!Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
7/17/2020 • 44 minutes, 22 seconds
Tichina Arnold Has Been Pandemic-Prepared Since 1991!
Look, there are few people we love to laugh with more than Tichina (@tichinaarnold). And every single time she comes through, she drops a word! On this episode of Yes, Girl! the mother/actress/singer/comedienne shares all the incredible projects she’s working on and she shares how a 1991 earthquake prepared her for just about any natural disaster. Plus, she shares what it’s like self-isolating with her teenage daughter (who is just as funny and talented as her!). Use #YesGirlPodcast to let us know what’s been your favorite Tichina Arnold moment!Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
7/10/2020 • 51 minutes, 46 seconds
A Playlist Pick-Me-Up with Spotify Playlist Queen, Mjeema Pickett!
When you think of the modern playlist, there are a few people who should be thanked. Mjeema Pickett (@ladyjeems), Spotify’s Head of R&B Programming is one of them. Not only has she revolutionized the way we listen to music but she just LOVES it so damn much! Amidst all the social unrest and a global pandemic, we were so glad to sit down and talk about good music with Mjeema and her incredible career story. We got to ask her some dope questions including “How would you describe yourself in 5 songs?” Do you have your answer? Yes? Well share it with us on social sing #YesGirlPodcast!Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
7/2/2020 • 50 minutes, 10 seconds
Patti LaBelle Feels 35 And Looks Just As Fierce!
Listen… You can never fully prepare yourself to meet a legend. We tried and we think we did ok when PATTI LABELLE (@mspattilabelle) stopped by Yes, Girl!, y’all! (Yes, we gushed a little bit about that time the entire ESSENCE office stopped what they were doing when she came by) but we also learned the backstory behind one of Miss Patti’s BIGGEST hits! This was such a fun conversation with one of the best to ever hit the stage so jump into this episode and keep the comments coming on social using #YesGirlPodcast! Also, stick around to hear a special segment with Dr. Patrice A. Harris (@PatriceHarrisMD) - the American Medical Association’s FIRST Black woman President - on how Black women can maximize their heart health and wellness! Sponsored by The American Medical Association (@amermedicalassn).Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)Video: Tiffani DuPree (@tiffani_dupree)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
6/25/2020 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 54 seconds
This Is Juneteenth: A Celebration of Our Black Freedom, History, and Future
There’s a lot going on in the country and the world right now. But one thing we refuse to do is to let it stop our Black joy. So, we’re giving you this special Juneteenth 2020 episode of #YesGirlPodcast to honor the beauty of Blackness past and present. With conversations from Alzo Slade (@alzoslade), Kendrick Sampson (@kendrick38), Kirk + Tammy Franklin (@kirkfranklin) (@iamtammyfranklin) and Miss Juneteenth director Channing Godfrey Peoples (@cgpeoples) some of our favorite #Juneteenth comments from our Yes, Girl! supporters - this episode is dedicated to the truths about our freedom and the joy we can always find in our Blackness.Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
6/19/2020 • 26 minutes, 57 seconds
Farrah Fawx Set FIRE to Our Feeds with the #ESSENCEChallenge!
This was an extra beautiful week to be Black! Just in time for our 50th Anniversary, Farrah Fawx (@farrahfawx) set our Instagram feeds ablaze with her jaw-dropping contribution to the #ESSENCEChallenge. The hashtag exploded all over our feeds and is now filled with thousands of stunning, Blackity-Black photos - a much-needed reminder of our beauty and resilience. Farrah stopped by Yes, Girl! Podcast and was sure to make one thing clear: She believes wholeheartedly that we should flip the narrative and tell our own stories - our way. Use the hashtag #YesGirlPodcast to join the conversation!Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
6/18/2020 • 20 minutes, 27 seconds
We LOVE Kirk & Tammy Franklin’s Authentic Love!
The only reason we’re not tired of seeing #RelationshipGoals is because of couples like Kirk (@kirkfranklin) and Tammy Franklin (@iamtammyfranklin). Not only are they faith-filled, they are FUNNY. They had us cracking up. We had a blast with this playful couple discussing everything from Kirk’s music process to how to keep the faith in difficult times to...that’s right… how the two of them met! Get into this fun and uplifting conversation with The Franklins! Don’t forget to use #YesGirlPodcast to join in the conversation!Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
6/12/2020 • 48 minutes, 2 seconds
Black Moms On The Front Lines: These Black Women Reporters Are Bringing Us Life-Saving News
For our final episode of the Black Moms on the Front Lines Series, we speak with three Black mothers who are reporters. Michelle Relerford (@mrelerfordnbc), Checkey Beckford (@Checkey4NY), and Janai Norman (@janai.norman). Their experiences though different, have one very important thing in common, these women are clear about their impact on the daily lives of Black people. Reporting the news and coming home to their little ones, these three women give us a glimpse into their lives - one reporting on the highs and lows of Chicago, another remembering the impact of Newtown, and another giving birth during this pandemic. Listen to their stories and help us celebrate them by sharing their episode with others. #YesGirlPodcastYes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany Ashitey + Ashley J. HobbsAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
6/11/2020 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 49 seconds
Tracee Ellis Ross Is Absolutely The High Note Of Our Week!
She’s back! Y’all know Tracee Ellis Ross (@traceeellisross) is an ESSENCE sweetheart! This conversation was so full of love, honesty, and light - we didn’t want it to end! We talked about everything from the heartbreak of what’s going on in the US today to celebrating ourselves, to...our favorite ways to drink tequila! We love that Tracee has etched in stone two of our favorite, empowered Black woman leads (shout out to Joan Carol Clayton, Esquire and Dr. Rainbow Johnson!) and she’s now given us another Black woman lead to cheer for with her new film, The High Note. Listen to the episode and let us know 1) How you are finding and holding on to joy, 2) if you’ve seen the film and what you think! #YesGirlPodcast!Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
6/5/2020 • 25 minutes, 29 seconds
Black Moms On the Front Lines: The Power of Trust Is NOLA Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s Biggest Weapon Against COVID-19
New Orleans. ESSENCE’s home-away-from-home has done an extraordinary job of flattening the COVID-19 curve due to the guidance and tireless efforts of Mayor LaToya Cantrell (@mayorcantrell). The city that defines what it means to thrive in the wake of disaster has become something of a case study for the rest of the country and we are so honored to have the chance to unpack Mayor Cantrell’s action plan and how her beautiful city keeps hope alive in the face of disaster. Her love for the city of New Orleans just pours out during this special interview. We can’t wait for you to hear it and find some nuggets of wisdom and encouragement.Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany Ashitey + Ashley J. HobbsAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
6/4/2020 • 33 minutes, 43 seconds
Insecure’s Kendrick Sampson Is At Peace With Disturbing the Peace
Insecure social justice warrior, Kendrick Sampson (@kendrick38) checked in with Yes, Girl! Podcast and boy was it a treat! Ahead of his upcoming film, Miss Juneteenth, Kendrick dropped gems on the origins of the widely-celebrated - but often misunderstood - Juneteeth holiday. He also poured out his heart and vision for Black mental health and how we can resist unjust systems in America and reimagine justice. Check out the full episode and use #YesGirlPodcast to share mental health practices that have been helpful for you during this time.Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
5/29/2020 • 30 minutes, 20 seconds
Tika Sumpter & Thai Randolph Unite to Create a (Safe) Sweet Space For Black Moms!
As a Black woman where do you go for info on all things motherhood, whether you’re a mother or expecting or just..thinking about it? Actress, Tika Sumpter, and marketing veteran Thai Randolph decided to create a safe space for all the questions Black women couldn’t find nuanced answers to in the mainstream: The Suga Podcast. On this episode, we have a good ol’ girlfriends ki-ki about what it means to be a "good" mom, creating a community for all our questions, and...that Superwoman cape that’s on the floor, up under the bed someplace. You’re in for a sweet treat!Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
5/22/2020 • 39 minutes, 56 seconds
Black Moms On the Front Lines Ep. 2: Kenya Slaughter Never Wanted To Be A Front-Line Worker
Yes, Girl! podcast presents, On the Frontlines - a celebration of Black women who are taking care of our families...and theirs too. These beautiful souls are more than essential, they are powerful.Kenya Slaughter is a mother and Dollar General employee in Louisiana where she is a part of Step Up Louisiana, an organization fighting for dollar store workers and essential workers’ rights. Her New York Times op-ed “I Never Planned to Be a Front-Line Worker at Dollar General” recently caught the nation’s attention. She opened up about just how hard it is for essential workers to take care of themselves and their families and even protect themselves while they’re working. We’re deeply honored to include her in this special series, to zoom in on the stories that are making the biggest differences for all of us during this global pandemic. To learn about the work Kenya is doing with Step Up Louisiana, please visit stepuplouisiana.org.Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany Ashitey + Ashley J. HobbsAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
5/19/2020 • 29 minutes, 56 seconds
Can Kelis Adopt Us And Let Us Live On Her Zen Glam Farm?
No, seriously. How can we be down? The mother/singer/master chef’s (@kelis) California farm is the ultimate low-key glammed out homestead. We only got a peek during our video chat with her but we could totally see ourselves reconnecting with earth, chasing the chickens that keep escaping, and having the dopest dinner parties EVER. You’ll love this conversation with the saucy boss. We talk about her new show, ‘Cooked With Cannabis’, cooking tips for the unchef’d (ahem, Charli Penn), and what she wants her sons to learn from her life. Get into it! Use #YesGirlPodcast on social to join the conversation.Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
5/14/2020 • 47 minutes, 40 seconds
Black Moms On the Front Lines Ep. 1: Twin Doctors Uché and Oni Blackstock Are Battling Structural Racism in Healthcare
Yes, Girl! podcast presents, On the Frontlines - a celebration of Black women who are taking care of our families...and theirs too. These beautiful souls are more than essential, they are powerful.Our first episode shines a spotlight on two incredible doctors. They have an incredible family legacy of Black women physicians committed to serving marginalized and immunocompromised communities. Drs. Uché (@uche_blackstock) and Oni Blackstock (@DrOniBee) serve as an emergency physician and primary care physician respectively. We're proud to amplify their stories and their words of advice and encouragement to the masses as physicians, mothers, and fighters for social justice.Yes Girl! On The Front Lines Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany Ashitey + Ashley J. Hobbs + Shantel HolderAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
5/8/2020 • 50 minutes, 19 seconds
Kandi's Got Advice For Women Considering Surrogacy!
The mother, singer, songwriter, businesswoman extraordinaire and reality TV star dropped by Yes, Girl! to share what’s she’s been up to since we’re all stuck in the house. Anyone else ready to hear some new tracks written and produced by Kandi (@kandi)?! We just might be hearing some new songs penned by Kandi by the time this quarantine is over! Not only that, she generously shares the details of her surrogacy journey and advice for those who may be considering the process. We can’t get enough of hearing about her beautifully blended family and how she and her baby girl, Blaze are bonding! Happy Mother's Day and get into this episode!Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
5/7/2020 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 34 seconds
Teddy Riley Wrote "Let's Chill" About His Own Puppy Love!
We’re so glad that even during a global pandemic, music can still bring people together. We're specifically talking about how we got to witness some music history for the culture… Babyface & Teddy Riley facing off on Instagram Live. We were bopping our heads, taking trips down memory lane, dancing in our living rooms. Were you there? Do you know the back stories to some of these iconic songs? Well, episode is all about the beautiful (and hilarious) back stories to some of Teddy’s (@teddyriley1) best work and the songs that defined decades! Get into it and as always use #YesGirlPodcast to let us know your favorite Teddy Riley/New Jack Swing memories! Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Designer: Imani Nuñez (@profoundly_imani)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
4/30/2020 • 39 minutes, 23 seconds
Kelly Rowland Stands Solidly In Her Sexuality & It's A Whole Vibe!
Just because we’re self-isolating doesn’t mean we can’t get down with some new tunes! And of course the one-and-only Kelly Rowland (@kellyrowland) has brought us a new single that’s empowering and just...a whole VIBE. She gave us the deets on the beautiful thing that happened BTS of her new video ‘Coffee’ AND she shared why she’s done with the word ‘pretty’. Listen, Kelly is a VIBE, ok? We’re about to come out of quarantine with a whole new level of confidence thanks to women like her. Use #YesGirlPodcast to let us know how you like ‘Coffee’ and what makes you feel empowered!Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
4/23/2020 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 30 seconds
Kierra Sheard Is Blessed and Highly Favored, For More Reasons Than You Think
If you watched “The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel” on Lifetime this weekend raise your hand. If you didn't, we won’t shame you, but since you have time on your hands, consider this a friendly reminder. Regardless, Kierra Sheard is a name you will want to remember. Not only did she honor her family legacy by slaying the role of her mother (Karen Clark-Sheard) in the biopic, but the phenomenal singer also has an album dropping, this Friday, April 17th. What more can a woman ask for? Blessings on blessings on blessings. Cori and Charli girl-chatted with the actress, singer, lifestyle entrepreneur and all-around ray of light, as she shared more about the family bonds that continues to create the Clark Family realness and inspiration we’ve come expect and love. Get into this ki-ki with KiKi!Plus we’re asking you, who has pushed you to achieve excellence in your life? Let us know what using #YesGirlPodcast.Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier) + Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
4/15/2020 • 57 minutes, 41 seconds
Eva Marcille Gives Us A Masterclass On Confidence, Beauty, and Unapologetic BLACKness!
Eva the Beautiful Diva (@evamarcille) is here! She came in like a burst of light and filled up the Essence studio with such great energy and all of the wisdom - much of which came from her mentor, the dynamic Tyra Banks. Eva chatted with Charli Penn about all things confidence, Black womanhood, lifestyle, maintaining your peace with her new CBD line cEVAd, and the latest goings-on with RHOA crew! We didn’t want to stop recording with her because she just brings so much great energy. Make sure you listen to the end for her tips for showing up as your true self always. You’ll dig this interview for sure! #YesGirlPodcastYes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
4/9/2020 • 42 minutes, 58 seconds
Last Night DJ D-Nice Saved Our Lives - And We’re FOREVER Grateful!
Huddle up, y’all. We’ve recently realized that the whole world has been using the word ‘epic’ way too loosely. We realized this after attending the party that seemed to never stop over this past weekend. We know you heard about it. You were probably at the bar with us! DJ D-Nice, founding member of Boogie Down Productions, and beloved turntablist all over the world, hosted a virtual party so EPIC that it brought us all together in a way that only good music and a GREAT DJ can do. So, of course we had to talk to the music man himself and get the scoop on how it all started. He’s so humble! And this convo - along with the way he brought us together in a time of international crisis - is solidified as an official Yes, Girl! Favorite. We hope you enjoy as much as we did. Use #YesGirlPodcast to let us know if you came to the party and what part you loved most!Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
3/26/2020 • 39 minutes, 37 seconds
We Aspire to Keep Calm (and Unbothered), Just like Omarion!
Yes, Girl! family, we all hope that you are staying safe and taking care of yourself. While at home, we're doing all the things: washing our hands, social distancing, and staying hydrated - the essentials. We’re also maintaining a certain level of #UNBOTHEREDness while dealing with these stressful times, and who better to school us on living an unbothered lifestyle than music industry veteran and heartthrob, OMARION (@Omarion)! This episode is like a meditation and TED Talk rolled into one. In our studio, Omarion dropped knowledge on everything from being a role model for other men, to his 20+ year music career, his friendship with Bow Wow, and what he’s looking for in a partner (Hint: Friendship is key, ladies!).So how are you staying calm and unbothered? Let us know!Be sure to share your playlists and tools for coping with the quarantine lockdown! Tag our hosts, and use #YesGirlPodcast on social.Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
3/19/2020 • 41 minutes, 23 seconds
Lauren & Cameron From Netflix’s ‘Love Is Blind’ Are As Adorable As You Imagine And They're Already Thinking About Their Future Children!
If you’ve not watched Netflix’s newest reality show sensation ‘Love Is Blind’ you need to stop what you’re doing and go binge it right now. It’s too good to look away! Once you finish you need to come back here and listen to this week’s bonus episode with Lauren and Cameron, the couple on the show that really stole all of America’s hearts. We’ve been swooning about their love story since the first episode of the show and we finally got our chance to ask them all the questions we ALL want to know! Another wedding? How scared was Cameron to meet Lauren’s father? What goes down in the Love Is Blind cast mates group chat? You already know - Use #YesGirlPodcast to chime in on all things Love Is Blind and to let us know what you think of our chat with the lovely Lauren and Cameron!Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder(@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
3/11/2020 • 43 minutes, 40 seconds
Our Homegirl Danielle Brooks Has a Beautiful New Baby And A Few “Champagne Problems!” + SURPRISE!!! 'The Great Girlfriends' Brandice Daniel And Sybil Amuti Are Here!!
Look...We’re not even gon’ hold you - We were finally able to coordinate an incredible official YES, GIRL! conversation with our homegirl, Danielle Brooks (@daniebb3) in sunny L.A.! And we talked about ALL of the things. You already know she’s an award-winning actress both on the silver screen and the stage, a soul-stirring singer (you need to check out THE ANTHEM “Black Woman” on her debut EP), an executive producer, director...and she’s just not even close to finished. Our conversation covered everything from children to our “champagne problems.” We also have a special bonus conversation with Sybil Amuti (@sybil_amuti) and Brandice Daniel (@brandicedaniel) of The Great Girlfriends Podcast! We had the BEST time with them. Get into it and use #YesGirlPodcast to chime in! We want to ki-ki with you too!Yes Girl Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) + Charli Penn (@charlipenn)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley J. Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@harmonys.touch)Bookings: Cori Murray + Charli Penn + Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
3/6/2020 • 1 hour, 17 minutes, 32 seconds
New Empire. Same Woman. Taraji P. Henson Is A Boss, And Don’t You Forget It
We did it again! We had an incredible conversation with another cover star! Taraji P. Henson (@tarajiphenson) covers our March/April issue of ESSENCE and not only does she give straight up GLAM, she gives that good old realness we LOVE. She’s never changed and we respect that SO much. On this episode we ki-ki with Taraji about the beauty of Black hair and the way SHE designed all the products and tools in her new haircare line TPH by Taraji; the importance of making space to talk about mental health among Black woman; and of course her upcoming wedding! You know we laughed, gushed, and sister-girled OUT. Get into the episode and as always, leave us an Apple review, subscribe, and tell a friend! #YesGirlPodcast!Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@harmonys.touch)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio Engineers: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
2/25/2020 • 48 minutes, 47 seconds
Robin Thede Stays Winning Because She ALWAYS Has A Plan!
Y’all are going to LOVE this episode! Robin Thede (@robinthede) is a friend to Yes, Girl! so of COURSE we were thrilled to have our sis back on the show! A Black Lady Sketch Show is one of our favorite shows and we were so happy to talk to her about how she gets people on her show, how she stays humble with 20+ year career, and what the future holds for her. We had this whole conversation at Essence’s Black Women In Hollywood...inside of a Ford Escape...ONSTAGE. What?! Get into this episode and use #YesGirlPodcast to share in the Robin Thede love!Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@harmonys.touch)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio Engineers: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
2/20/2020 • 25 minutes, 46 seconds
K.Michelle Is In Transition - Mind, Body & Music!
Just in time for Valentine’s Day - our favorite Love & Hip Hop cast member, K. Michelle (@kmichellemusic) is here this week and can we just say we STAN for her?! She’s always given that real relatable music about life and love and she’s here this week talking to us about it all. K.Michelle shares some words of wisdom from Ciara, her plan to transition into country music, and how her experience with bad cosmetic surgery has created the perfect platform to help other women to experience SELF-love. Check out the episode and leave us an Apple review letting us know what your thoughts! #YesGirlPodcast!Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Associate Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@harmonys.touch)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
2/14/2020 • 40 minutes, 2 seconds
The Sexiest, Funniest, & Most Motivating Yes, Girl! Moments of 2019!
2019 was full of great Yes, Girl! Episodes. We ki-ki’d in sisterhood with some of the most beautiful souls. We unknowingly created some of the funniest bloopers, podcasting while hangry. We were moved to tears by some of the most inspirational guests. And of course, we wanted to share some of our favorites of 2019 with you in this episode! SEXIEST EPISODE OF 2019. FUNNIEST INTRO BLOOPERS OF 2019. MOST MOTIVATIONAL MOMENT OF 2019. Take a listen and have a good laugh! Don’t forget to subscribe to Yes, Girl! Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Apple listeners, definitely leave us a review and let us know how we’re doing! #YesGirlPodcastYes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
2/6/2020 • 48 minutes, 37 seconds
This One’s For The #GirlDads | #RIPKobeandGianna
Since learning of the passing of sports legend Kobe Bryant, and his daughter Gianna Bryant. The conversations surrounding his legacy have filled us with warmth as we remember the father he was. This week we wanted to center Black #girldads and it only made sense to invite Essence Ventures Founder and Chair, and #GirlDad of FOUR - Richelieu Dennis. Our prayers are with the fathers of all the families affected by the tragedy and we hope that this episode helps to lift up the beauty of Black fatherhood. Use #YesGirlPodcast to share your #girldad experiences and hug your loved ones a little tighter today.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
1/30/2020 • 39 minutes, 22 seconds
Michael B. Jordan Is Taking Total Control Of His Creative Destiny & We STAN
The Wire, Friday Night Lights, Fruitvale Station, Creed, Black Panther - the list goes ON. We are always here for a strong Black come-up in Hollywood so you know we (Cori Murray @corimurray and Charli Penn @charlipenn) were 10 different kinds of thrilled to chat with Michael B. Jordan about his spectacular career thus far (because he’s far from finished!) and his latest actor/producer role in ‘Just Mercy.’ If you’ve not seen it - you need to run to the theater. (Cori gives it two thumbs way up - SKY HIGH!). As always, leave us an Apple review and let us know what you thought of the movie and this episode of Yes, Girl! using #YesGirlPodcast!Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
1/10/2020 • 28 minutes, 18 seconds
A Standing O For The Black Girl Magic Moments That Made The Decade!
Yes, Girl! is THE place where Black Girl Magic reigns, ok? So, we decided to compile an episode with the hosts of the ESSENCE Podcast Network and a few of our guests across the network to share their favorite BGM moments from the past ten years. We're telling you, this episode is a nod, a standing O, a celebration of the Black Girl Magic Moments that MADE the decade. Get into it and use #YesGirlPodcast to let us know what your favorite Black Girl Magic Moments have been. You've got a whole decade to reflect on, girl!Cori Murray's Favorite BGM Moment: 2:28Tracy Clayton's Favorite BGM Moment : 5:52Charli Penn's Favorite BGM Moment: 8:40Marquita Harris's Favorite BGM Moment: 13:46Arian Simone's Favorite BGM Moment: 15:32Kim Kimble's Favorite BGM Moment: 15:58Julee Wilson's Favorite BGM Moment: 17:14Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
1/3/2020 • 22 minutes, 13 seconds
LL Cool J’s STILL Rockin’ The Bells + Davido Is...Planning A Wedding!
Yes, girl - we’re on holiday break! But you didn’t think we’d leave you hangin’, did you? We’ve got not one but TWO dope conversations for you to get into with the legend, LL Cool J (@llcoolj) and Afrobeats frontrunner, Davido (@davidooffical)! Cool James is always doing big things from hosting Lip Sync Battle to recently celebrating his 150th episode of NCIS: LA, to fueling the hella successful Rock The Bells Sirius XM station! LL stopped by to drop knowledge on everything from money management to creating a legacy that will stand the test of time. Davido chatted with Cori about how his biggest hits were created, the lessons he’s learned having a Nigerian background and growing up in the Deep South, and the incredible Nigerian wedding he’s planning with his beautiful fiancee! Get into this episode and share with a friend!Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
12/27/2019 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 33 seconds
Sophia Chang Is Unapologetically The Baddest Chick In EVERY Room
Sophia Chang (@sophchangnyc) is the queen bee of badasses! She’s lighting up Instagram feeds daily with all the empowerment that a bad chick needs.This “Music Business Matriarchitect” has managed the magic behind your favorite artists’ (and their labels) for the past 25 years - ODB, RZA, GZA, Q-Tip, Raphael Saadiq, A Tribe Called Quest, D’Angelo, Joey Bada$$ and more. Now she’s conquering a new chapter in her story - author and storyteller. Her audio event The Baddest Bitch in the Room, now available on Audible, is possibly the most candid and reflective story of love and hip-hop. Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (@charlipenn) give us a front-row seat to Sophia, as she shares her tools for how women of color can be seen and heard, by any means necessary.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
12/21/2019 • 51 minutes, 51 seconds
‘Watchmen’ Star Yahya Abdul-Mateen II Did Not Come To Play With Hollywood!
When we say we had a GOOD time with this man? We mean it! Star of the hit HBO series, ‘Watchmen’ Yahya Abdul-Mateen II (@yahya) is the New Orleans-born architect-turned-actor taking Hollywood by storm with his incredible acting chops. He’s also quickly become a sex symbol...because abs, and fully connected beard...and adorable face! He kept us cracking up! Get into this episode because we definitely had a good time discussing his relatively quick rise in La La Land, his already iconic role starring opposite Regina King in Watchmen and all the lessons he’s learned along the way. Don’t forget to leave us comments to let us know what you think of the episode and tell a friend! Use hashtag #YesGirlPodcast!Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Hip Hop Christmas by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) | Artist: http://www.twinmusicom.org/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
12/13/2019 • 47 minutes, 42 seconds
Chadwick Boseman & Stephan James Break Down What It Means To Be A Leading Man!
What does it take to be a true leading man in Hollywood? We - Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (@charlipenn) got to chat with two of Hollywood’s best today! Who, you might ask? Chadwick Boseman (@chadwickboseman) and Stephan James (@tdotsteph) - two Black kings who are taking Hollywood by storm! They sat down with us to talk about their latest movie 21 Bridges, the responsibility of portraying real people, and the creative ways they finesse fame to feel normal. Let us know what you think of the episode using #YesGirlPodcast and don’t forget to share with a friend!Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)Hip Hop Christmas by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) | Artist: http://www.twinmusicom.org/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
12/6/2019 • 43 minutes, 15 seconds
Kelly Rowland Sprinkles Holiday Cheer With A New Christmas Movie SHE Produced!
The holidays are HERE. You know what we're thankful for? This lovely ki-ki with the glamorous sweetheart (and friend to the brand) - Kelly Rowland! We won’t say too much except that she knows her way around a kitchen and we’re manifesting that she’s the next big thing when it comes to movie production! There’s also new music coming! Check out her new Lifetime movie #MerryLiddleChristmas at 8/7c! What’s your signature Thanksgiving dish? Hit us up! @corimurray and @charlipenn! And don’t forget to comment on Apple, Twitter, or Instagram and let us know what you think of the episode using #YesGirlPodcast.Happy Thanksgiving to all our boos out there! We hope your holiday is filled with peace, love, and Yes, Girl!"Let all your thinks be thanks."Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11/28/2019 • 28 minutes, 47 seconds
All Rise For QUEEN Regina King!
Now, you KNOW we were hyped for this interview! And although we (Cori + Charli) weren't the ones interviewing her, it's an honor to have Regina King (@iamreginaking) grace Yes, Girl! With over 30 years in the industry, Regina King's winning season has finally come! After her December ESSENCE cover shoot, Queen Regina sat down with another Queen - our West Coast editor, Regina R. Robertson (@reginarrobertson) (or "R to the Third" as Regina King lovingly calls her) to take us on an inspiring walk back through her life and career from '227' to the now incredibly popular HBO hit, 'Watchmen,' to her favorite cocktails to what was going through her mind when she won her Academy Award to the moment the world came to know that she is a whole lot of fun! Let us know what you think by using #YesGirlPodcast and don't forget to rate, comment, subscribe and grab the December issue of ESSENCE on newsstands now![19:12] Regina King Describes Her Character "Sister Night" From 'Watchmen'[21:57] Regina King On Being The First Person On The Call-Sheet[35:25] Was She Really Drunk on 'Watch What Happens Live'?[59:57] Regina King Explains Her 'Black Girls Rock!' SpeechYes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11/25/2019 • 1 hour, 6 minutes, 31 seconds
Tamela Mann Talks Getting Snatched and Having The Most Supportive Hubby Ever (Who's Also Here!)
For those who’ve been part of the Yes, Girl Squad for a while, you’ll remember that Tamela and David Mann joined us last Thanksgiving for a hilarious and heartwarming Yes, Girl! convo. Well, they are back! This time we talked about how in sync they are as a couple, David’s support of Tamela’s Weight Watchers weight loss journey, and what it takes to keep a strong, healthy marriage for over 2 decades! Check out the episode and hit us up to let us know what you think makes a strong relationship! Cori Murray (@corimurray) and Charli Penn (@charlipenn).Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11/14/2019 • 51 minutes, 36 seconds
Nobody Loved Whitney Like Robyn Crawford - The Interview You've Been Waiting For
Since her death, Whitney Houston’s life has been poked, prodded, and questioned by the masses. Today, Robyn Crawford releases her book with an intimate view of the late singer and their long and significant friendship. We're honored to bring you this special episode of the Yes, Girl! Podcast as Robyn talks with hosts, Cori Murray (@corimurray) and Charli Penn (@charlipenn) to dispel the myths and rumors of her relationship with Whitney and to honor one of the greatest voices of all time. Listen to the episode to catch intimate glimpses of the late singer's personality and perspective and one of the friendships she cherished most. Let us know what you think of the episode and how Whitney impacted your life using #YesGirlPodcast.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11/12/2019 • 55 minutes, 48 seconds
Give Tank His R&B Roses, Please!
Y’all are really going to love this week’s episode. The king of babymaking/’Daddy’ music - Tank (@therealtank) came through Yes, Girl! Podcast to talk about his latest album ‘Elevation’ (OUT NOW!) and his path as one of the most consistent leading men of R&B music. We got into a great conversation about his musical process, if he makes love to his own music, and...bacon. Yes, we talked about bacon! Your hosts, Cori (@corimurray) + Charli (@charlipenn), want to know what you think of this episode and also what R&B songs are your favorites! Use #YesGirlPodcast to share your thoughts and memories. Also, remember to rate, comment, subscribe and share with a friend!Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
10/31/2019 • 46 minutes, 21 seconds
Tracee Ellis Ross, The Queen of Natural Chic, Is Living Her Juiciest Life and Reflects on Her Fame During "Girlfriends"
Hey boos! Before this month wraps up, we wanted to share a special bonus episode with our Yes, Girl! fam. Earlier this month, ESSENCE's Global Beauty Director, Julee Wilson (@missjulee), sat down with our October 2019 cover star (and birthday girl 😉 10/29), Tracee Ellis Ross (@traceeellisross) for an episode of The Color Files podcast! Don't worry, we'll be back with a new episode of Yes,Girl! on Thursday. In the meantime, get into this conversation with a legend, a mood, and the BFF in all of our heads.Check out more of this conversation in the October 2019 ESSENCE magazine.16:20 - Tracee talks how late-night shows ignored her while on Girlfriends30:04 - Tracee shares her Hair Story and gets passionate about the beauty of Black hairBe sure to share your thoughts with The Color Files host, Julee Wilson (IG: @MissJulee) using #TheColorFiles to let her know your thoughts…anytime, anywhere!This episode is sponsored by Ulta Beauty.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
10/30/2019 • 50 minutes, 37 seconds
The Best Ki-Ki Ever With First Wives Club Star Ryan Michelle Bathé
This week Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (Twitter: @ManWifeDog, IG: @charlipenn) had a whole sister-girl ki-ki with the one and only Ryan Michelle Bathe (@ryanmichelleb)! That’s buh-THAY. Not only is she the star of the new BET+ series ‘First Wives Club’ she is HILARIOUS! She shared the joy of working with the incredible Jill Scott and Michelle Buteau, growing up reading ESSENCE Magazine, and how important sisterhood amongst Black women is! Plus she shares some anecdotes from her childhood that will have you in tears. Get into this episode and let us know what you think! #YesGirlPodcastYes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
10/24/2019 • 56 minutes, 3 seconds
Truth Is: Love & Faith Helped Set Fantasia Free
THEE Fantasia (@tasiaworld) is here this week! You know we love a down-to-earth vibe and Tasia gave us just that. With her new album ‘Sketchbook’ out now, we ki-ki’d about her music journey, what it means to be a soul singer in 2019 and how free she feels to now be an independent artist. Fantasia also shed some light on what has helped her find freedom and of course, good love is #1! Make no mistake - we will be grabbing our tickets and scream-singing along to every song at her Sketchbook tour! And when she kicks her shoes off, we’ll be there to catch ‘em! Hit us up on social media (Cori Murray - @corimurray; Charli Penn - Twitter: @ManWifeDog, IG: @charlipenn) and tell us what you think of the episode using #YesGirlPodcast and let us know what other members of the “One-Name Club” you love!Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
10/17/2019 • 43 minutes, 25 seconds
Bebe Winans Just Found Out He’s A Bearded Bae!
We keep scoring conversations with legends lately and we ain't even mad at it! This week, Cori (@corimurray), Charli (Twitter: @ManWifeDog, IG: @charlipenn), and guest host, Julee “Global” Wilson (@MissJulee) had THEE best time with Gospel royalty Bebe Winans (@bebewinans)! We were able to tell him all the ways his music has changed our lives and learn why he says his new album - Need You (out now) is his best body of work. Between all the laughs Mr. Winans offered the best nuggets of inspiration for the tough times and how he lost 80 pounds without dieting! Bonus: Bebe left us with some of his most cherished memories with the beloved Luther Vandross and Whitney Houston. And don't worry - we kept it classy while explaining what exactly a “bearded bae” is and how he fits the profile. The ladies are AFTER him on The ‘Gram and his beard needs its own IG account, ok?! Click play and get to listening! Also, let us know what you think using #YesGirlPodcast! Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
10/10/2019 • 1 hour, 41 seconds
Raphael Saadiq’s Hits Have Some Dope Backstories + So Does His Name!
Cori and Charli stanned really #hoord for this week’s guest. Borderline embarrassingly so. It’s only because he’s so cool and chill and has HITS for days! Raphael Saadiq (@raphael_saadiq) aka ⅓ of Tony! Toni! Toné! aka Still Ray stopped by to talk about his latest album “Jimmy Lee” and gave us some little-known insight into his childhood, his early music choices, and his personal philosophy for turning out hit after hit over the years. Charli got to ask the question that’d been burning for quite a while: “What’s the story behind “Ask Of You”? (If you’re a REAL Raphael Saadiq fan and real 90s R&B/movie fan, you’ll want to rush to -insert timestamp- for that answer!) What’s your favorite track that Raphael Saadiq has blessed? Let us know using #YesGirlPodcast! Tag Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (Twitter: @ManWifeDog, IG: @charlipenn) and don’t forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to Yes, Girl! and share with a girlllfriiieeennnddd!**This episode is sponsored by Nationwide.**Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
10/3/2019 • 1 hour, 27 minutes, 36 seconds
Sexpert, Shan Boodram’s Got The Recipe For That Special Relationship “Sauce”
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: This is our first crossover episode between Yes, Girl! and The Solve Podcast! Cori (@corimuray) and Charli (Twitter: @ManWifeDog, IG: @charlipenn) have a good time chatting about this week’s topic - something we all either hear or talk about (or both) on the regular: Sex and relationships. For many, much of the advice we received wasn’t completely healthy or accurate. But never fear! This week’s guest - the one and only, renowned sexpert, Shan Boodram aka Shan Boody (@shanboody) is here to dispel rumors, myths, and outright lies about how we should be engaging sex, dating, and our relationships with our own bodies. She lays out a whole plan and petition for why we need sex re-education and even challenges us to think about flirting differently. Shan also drops the basics of sex and socialization that will make you take inventory of what you believe about your body, how you date, and what to expect in the bedroom. (Sidebar: Something that Cori and Charli are quite concerned about is getting to “100% THAT BITCH” levels like the great Lizzo. What’s your percentage and what advice do you have for helping Cori and Charli get their numbers up?) Let us know by using #YesGirlPodcast! Visit www.thegameofdesire.com to grab your copy of Shan's book that EVERYONE is talking about!**This episode is sponsored by MAC Cosmetics.**Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
9/26/2019 • 57 minutes, 32 seconds
Jidenna Just Gave The Best Explanation EVER For Why He’s Single (And We Can’t Even Be Mad)
It's a very special day! Not only is it our co-host Charli Penn's birthday (Woot woot!) but The Chief himself, Jidenna (@jidenna), came through Yes, Girl! (or we came through his hotel lounge) and he graced us with the DOPEST conversation! To say this was a fun and thought-provoking episode is an understatement. We came away with much to consider and some brand new perspective about heritage, unity across The Diaspora, and even some tattoo concepts! For all the ladies who are wondering, Jidenna is VERY clear on a few things: His purpose, the importance of unity across The Diaspora, and what he finds intriguing and attractive about women. Is he ready to date? Well, you’ll just have to listen to him tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth to Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (Twitter: @ManWifeDog, IG: @charlipenn)! PLUS, he tells us the most romantic thing he’s ever done for someone. You'll either crack up or swoon or both! Let us know how you liked the episode AND we want to know where you’ve traveled or would like to travel across The African Diaspora and what you've learned or hope to learn! And as always, use #YesGirlPodcast!**This episode is sponsored by MAC Cosmetics.**Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
9/20/2019 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 22 seconds
THE Shea Butter Baby, Ari Lennox’s Voice (And Laugh) Is Like Soul Food! (We Stan So Hard!)
We are all-the-way thrilled to have one of our favorite new recording artists, Ari Lennox (@arilennox), on the show this week! Cori is trying to get her bedroom decor to ‘BMO’ video levels and Charli is stanning hard for Ari’s humility and IG hilarity. R&B is having a revival of sorts and artists like Ari are leading the way. So, we chopped it up with her about her new album “Shea Butter Baby” (it’s a whole vibe!), what (THE QUEEN) Erykah Badu said to her before her Black Girls Rock! performance, cautionary tales of signing record deals, and her upcoming tour with LIZZO! We cannot get enough of Ari, y’all. Her star is rising at meteoric speeds and it warms our hearts. Check out this episode, full of laughs and real talk! Be sure to use #YesGirlPodcast to share your thoughts and follow Cori Murray (@corimurray), and Charli Penn (Twitter: @ManWifeDog, IG: @charlipenn)!Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
9/12/2019 • 57 minutes, 57 seconds
Erika Alexander Schools Us On Rising From Rejection + New Hulu Series: ‘Wu-Tang: An American Saga’
So, listen… Sadly, our Hot Girl Summer is on its way out. But we’re determined to hold onto every single ray of sunshine we soaked up for as LONG as we can! Speaking of sunshine --- THE Erika Alexander (@erikaalexanderthegreat) aka Maxine Shaw Attorney-At-Law (Living Single) aka Cousin Pam (The Cosby Show) graced the Yes, Girl! Podcast this week! Do y’all know how many Black women went to law school because of her?! Erika had us laughing, crying and nodding in agreement as she gave us the real-real about bouncing back from rejection in the entertainment industry, becoming an internationally-renowned creator, and her newest role playing The RZA’s mother on the new Hulu series ‘Wu-Tang: An American Saga’ (Go watch now! It’s incredible!). If you don’t already consider her a friend-in-your-head, you will once you hear her absolute humility, honesty, and hilarity on this episode. Follow us: Cori Murray (@corimurray), Charli Penn (IG: @charlipenn, Twitter: @ManWifeDog) and hit us up on social media using #YesGirlPodcast and tell us what you think of the episode!Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
9/5/2019 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 12 seconds
Sak Pase?! This Is How Jessie Woo Prayed, Worked, & Joked Her Way To The Top
Seeesteeerrrs! We are back from our vacations and tanned for the gawds, relaxed, and ready for you to get into this convo with one of our social media faves -- Seesterrr Jessie Woo (@TheJessieWoo)! Jessie’s new album “Moods of a Cancer” has been on everyone’s end of summer playlist, plus she blew up the internet with her epic vacation pics in Haiti—her proud homeland. We’re in awe of how she’s manifested her rapid rise from from being broke to blessed. On this episode, Jessie shares the prayer she prayed for the life she’s enjoying now. We want to know what prayers you’ve been manifesting for your best life too! Follow us - Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (@charlipenn) and use #YesGirlPodcast to let us know!Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
8/29/2019 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 1 second
Larenz Tate's Thoughts On Family, Black Film and the FINAL Season of POWER!
We have ALL the love for this legendary leading man! THE “Brother to the Night” aka Larenz Tate (@LarenzTate) was in the building and brought the WARMEST of vibes and biggest smiles to ESSENCE. We chopped it up with Mr. Tate about the jaw-dropping final season of ‘Power’ (can you believe it’s the end?!) and just how the cast has been able to keep all the Season 6 secrets! Since he’s a legend in these Hollywood rom-com streets we had to discuss the possibility of a ‘Love Jones’ sequel and what he loves most about his relationship with his beautiful wife. On top of all of THAT, he dropped wise words on what it means to raise his boys as Black kings and the importance of building and sustaining Black communities. What do y’all think is the big plot twist in the final season of Power? Are you here for a Love Jones sequel? Hit us up on social media and let us know using #YesGirlPodcast: Cori Murray (@corimurray), Charli Penn (IG: @charlipenn)!14:53 - Jump to the beginning of the interview!16:05 - What projects does Larenz Tate have brewing?19:59 - Larenz talks about the final (jaw-dropping) season of ‘Power’!43:42 - Want to see that viral photo of Larenz Tate & Nia Long? https://www.instagram.com/p/B06y4I6Bsl3/48:17 - Larenz Tate talks about his beautiful relationship with his beautiful wife51:20 - The importance of making time for family56:20 - Learn more about Mr. Tate's epic audio drama, Bronzeville!Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
8/22/2019 • 59 minutes, 35 seconds
Tyler Perry Challenges the #BlackExcellence in All of Us
Heyyy y’all! We (Cori and Charli) are packing our bags and hoppin’ on the first thing smokin’ to get our vacays in before Summer ends! Even though our hearts are already on the beach, we can’t wait to get back to you with EPIC, ALL-NEW Yes, Girl episodes! But in the meantime? CHILE! We wanted to throw it back to ESSENCE Fest 2019. THE Reverend Bishop Pastor Tyler Perry (@tylerperry) spoke with Angela Rye (@angelarye), on-stage, and gave an incredible WORD, on a Sunday, that spoke to our souls and put a battery in the back of everybody in attendance. Someone pass the collection plate! His highly sought-after advice on Black ownership, #BlackExcellence, and the come-up were nothing short of motivating. Soak up all this wisdom, then hit us up - Cori Murray (@corimurray), Charli Penn (Twitter: @ManWifeDog, IG: @charlipenn) using #YesGirlPodcast. Let us know how Mr. Perry’s talk resonated with you! As always, thank you for listening! ESSENCE’s #hotgirlsummer continues.12:24 - Sneak Peak into Upcoming Guests14:00 - Tyler Perry’s Convo w/ Angela Rye18:00 - Tyler Discusses Leveling Up Black Excellence25:00 - Tyler Perry Will Call Folks to Mentor Them26:20 - Tyler Perry Doesn’t Make Mistakes32:27 - BONUS SEGMENT: Keeping your melanin healthyYes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
8/16/2019 • 46 minutes, 46 seconds
Boris Kodjoe’s Got Fineness and Fitness On Lock! (+ BONUS Content)
Honeyyy… Have we got a TREAT for you! Listen, lovelies… If you’re trying to figure out what to do with all that residual Hot Girl Summer energy, our guest, Boris Kodjoe (@boriskodjoe) has an idea. Mr. Kodjoe came through and schooled us on the importance of working out no matter how much (or how little) time or energy you THINK you have. Boris’s brother, Patrick (@patkodjoe), came along to rap with us about calories, crunches, and caring for our bodies and they’ve got a new digital fitness venture they’ve created with all of us in mind! They want us to get fit, y’all. NO excuses! PLUS: Boris shares insight into his and the lovely Nicole Ari Parker’s (@nicoleariparker) health & wellness mindset and routines. (Peep their Instagram accounts -- their discipline is unmatched!) So, if you didn’t quite sculpt the perfect summer body, never fear - this episode will help you get right throughout the rest of 2019! Check out the interview w/Boris and Pat Kodjoe at 11:40. As always, be sure to rate, comment, and tell a friend to listen to Yes, Girl! Follow the Yes, Girl hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray), and Charli Penn (Twitter: @ManWifeDog; IG: @charlipenn) and use #YesGirlPodcast to tell us how you plan to stay fit for the rest of 2019! This episode of the Yes, Girl! Podcast is sponsored by Aveeno.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
8/8/2019 • 31 minutes, 55 seconds
Monica’s Commitment and Friendship Commandments (Preach!)
BAES! This week is very special. It’s not just one of those days. It’s a great day because THE Miss Thang herself, Monica (@MonicaBrown), came through for a true heart-to-heart about all things matters of the heart with Yes, Girl! co-host Charli Penn. She has a hot #1 single (“Commitment”) ruling the charts with a fire video and a new album coming this Fall. Sis shared her entire truth on everything from her greatest musical accomplishments, her divorce from ex-husband Shannon Brown, what it means to be a GREAT friend and why it’s important to tell your kids the whole truth. All the more reasons why we love her so much! P.S. - Cori is traveling for work but she really misses y’all! Listen to Monica’s new single and be sure to tell us what qualities you value most in a friendship using #YesGirlPodcast. Follow Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (IG: @charlipenn, Twitter: @ManWifeDog) to stay up on all things YGP. We love you for listening!Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
8/2/2019 • 39 minutes, 7 seconds
QUEEN Loretta Devine Drops A Word On Fame And Family
Huddle up, family! YGP hosts, Cori and Charli, gave the biggest hug to special guest Loretta Devine (@lodivadevine), star of the new Netflix sitcom ‘Family Reunion.’ Cori and Charli chatted with Ms. Devine about the best (and worst) parts of family get-togethers. Plus, she told a crazy fan encounter story that she laughs about now, but then, not so much. Bonus: Ms. Devine played a hilarious game you MUST hear! And as always, follow hosts Cori Murray (@corimurray), and Charli Penn (Twitter: @ManWifeDog, IG: @charlipenn) and use #YesGirlPodcast to let us know what you think of the episode and... your favorite cookout foods!Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
7/26/2019 • 54 minutes, 1 second
Why Senator Cory Booker Is Inspired By Black Women
In New Orleans at ESSENCE Festival, the YGP hosts had a chance to get to know some of the 2020 presidential Candidates better. Senator (and TRUE Jersey boy) Cory Booker (@CoryBooker) came through for an intimate conversation where he shared his commitment to Black women and our community. Cori and Charli had the pleasure of chatting with Sen. Booker about developing communities, his Vegan lifestyle, his love for his home state and the Black women who’ve inspired his career. And with Election Day 2020 quickly approaching (473 days to be exact!) the senator also offers encouragement for those of us who are feeling a little jaded about the political process. Hit us up with your thoughts: Cori Murray, @corimurray; Charli Penn, (Twitter: @ManWifeDog, IG: @CharliPenn) and use #YesGirlPodcast when you tweet these gems!Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
7/20/2019 • 27 minutes, 54 seconds
Rotimi Is Giving Us LIFE and 'Love Riddim' This Summer
Hey fam! Charli and Cori are back from Essence Fest and their recap is one for the books. There, they bumped into this week's guest, Rotimi, and his Power costars. Rotimi’s (@rotimi) quickly become a worldwide heartthrob but he's naturally multi-talented and FOCUSED out here. On this episode, we chat with Mr. Nigerian Butterscotch about his unique start as an actor and the seasoned actors who have mentored him, and how he's contributing to Afrobeats mass takeover. Plus, the qualities he’s looking for in a “Mrs. Nigerian Butterscotch!” (Heads up, ladies: having a little “riddim” is a great thing!) Follow the Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn (IG - @charlipenn, Twitter: @ManWifeDog). Tell us what you think of the episode on social and remember to use hashtag: #YesGirlPodcast.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
7/13/2019 • 59 minutes, 49 seconds
2019 Guide to a Hot Girl Summer, Plus a Read From Robin Givens
Sun’s out and so are the good vibes. Before Cori and Charli pack their bags for festivals and vacations, they share what’s on their Summer bucket list, plus tips on what it takes survive and thrive at #ESSENCEFEST. Since one can never have too much shade on these sunny days, take notes as Robin Gives (@robingivens) gives Cori lessons on how to give a good read.Keep the comments coming! Hit up Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (IG @charlipenn / Twitter @manwifedog). Be sure to tag #yesgirlpodcastYes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
6/30/2019 • 49 minutes, 53 seconds
Kofi Siriboe Pours Out His Heart and Steals Ours
Calling all #SiriBAEs—your king is here! Queen Sugar is back and Ralph Angel, a.k.a. Kofi Siriboe (@kofisiriboe) celebrated with Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (@charlipenn) over some of Aunt Vi’s (delicious) pies. With Essence Fest 2019 just around the corner, the trio reflected on a crazy memory from Essence Fest 2016 when Kofi had the entire crowd parted like the Red Sea. He also gushes about his love for women, advice from Oprah and advocating for mental health. Things get a bit emotional when Kofi spoke about the untimely passing of his mentor, Nipsey Hussle. Listen in.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
6/14/2019 • 38 minutes, 51 seconds
Bishop T.D. Jakes and Tonya Lewis Lee Bring Food to Our Souls
Blessings on blessings! This week’s episode is a double portion of inspiration. Bishop T.D. Jakes (@bishopjakes) will motivate your spirit, and Tonya Lewis Lee (@tonyalewislee) will motivate your mind and body. Cori and Charli’s cup overflowed with joy when Bishop T.D. Jakes came to NYC while promoting his new book, Crushing. The bishop gave the hosts a loving read about manifesting vision and the reality of success. Meanwhile, producer, author, and entrepreneur, Tonya Lewis Lee, brought her Brooklyn vibes to the studio to dish on how she stays fit and fabulous, plus spill the tea on all things Nola Darling, in season two of She’s Gotta Have it.Keep the comments coming! Hit up Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (IG @charlipenn / Twitter @manwifedog). Be sure to tag #yesgirlpodcast.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray) Charli Penn (IG = @charlipenn / Twitter = @manwifedog)Executive Producer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Producers: Ashley Hobbs (@ashleylatruly) + Shantel Holder (@shadesofshan_)Bookings: Cori Murray, Charli Penn, and Tiffany AshiteyAudio: Josh Gwynn (@regardingjosh) + Anthony Frasier (@anthonyfrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
6/8/2019 • 1 hour, 23 minutes, 39 seconds
Blair Underwood, Ladies! (You're Welcome!)
Ladies, we have a treat for you! Blair Underwood is in the building, and yes he's EVERYTHING you would imagine him to be (and more) - cool, conscious and funny. Plus who can forget that smooth voice? Cori and Charli got an earful of his time, when he stopped by to talk about the new Netflix mini-series, 'When They See Us', directed by the phenomenal Ava DuVernay, which dives into the stories of ‘The Central Park Five’. The trio reflected on what has changed from then to now, and take a flashback look into Blair’s 30+ year career.We’re blocking out time this weekend to watch it on Netflix.Let us know what you think. Hit up Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (IG @charlipenn / Twitter @manwifedog). Be sure to tag #yesgirlpodcast.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
5/31/2019 • 47 minutes, 30 seconds
Alicia Keys Sits Before Us As A Grown Ass Woman
Being in the music industry for nearly twenty years qualifies Alicia Keys (@aliciakeys) to be a lot of things - a veteran, a role model and so much more - but it’s her role as a wife and mother that has helped her become the grown ass woman who sits before us today. Hosts, Cori Murray and Charli Penn catch up with the timeless musician, and June ESSENCE cover star, to exchange grown woman wisdom and Keys is happier than ever. Listen to her tell us why hubby Swizz Beatz completes her, when she put her “big girl panties” on and how motherhood changed her. Plus C+C discuss the most grown move anyone could make…paying off those student loans and bills. (Congrats Morehouse Class of 2019!)Keep telling us what you think. Hit up Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (IG @charlipenn / Twitter @manwifedog). Be sure to tag #yesgirlpodcast.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
5/22/2019 • 1 hour, 25 minutes, 1 second
Yara Shahidi’s An Old Soul, Plus Diddy Love Continues #CantStopWontStop
It’s clear that Yara Shahidi is more than just an actress or an activist, she’s an old soul who’s clearly been in this world before. So naturally she fit right in when stopping by to talk about her new movie, The Sun is Also a Star (out in theaters Friday, May 17). In this episode, Cori and Charli chat with Yara about their mutual on-and-off again relationship with New York City. Plus Yara gives them some sightseeing homework. You may want to take notes for your next NYC trip. Thanks for all the Mother’s Day love! You know Cori and Charli had to read more fan mail on air. Keep them coming. You might hear yours.Hit up Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (IG @charlipenn / Twitter @manwifedog). Be sure to tag #yesgirlpodcast.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
5/17/2019 • 43 minutes, 24 seconds
For Diddy, It's Faith and Family over Everything
In honor of Mother's Day, we're remixing our show just a bit. We're sharing audio from a very personal sit down with dream hampton and ESSENCE's May cover star Sean 'Diddy' Combs (@diddy). He shared his raw feelings about his love for Kim Porter, raising their children and preparing for Mother's Day without her. We appreciate Diddy for courageously sharing his emotions and personal conversation with ESSENCE and now the world.Plus this epsiode really hits home as Charli shares her own experiences about growing up without a mother. For all dealing with parental loss this Mother's Day, we see you and you're in our hearts. You can always connect with Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (IG -@charlipenn / Twitter - @manwifedog), use #yesgirlpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
5/9/2019 • 27 minutes, 42 seconds
Michael Ealy + Meagan Good Are Welcome To Our Home Anytime
Y’all this week at Black Girl Magic headquarters, it's been been a roller coaster. TGIF! Thankfully The Intruder's Michael Ealy and Meagan Good came to our rescue—they brought us some much needed laughs and good vibes. They even gave us an idea for a new script. Plus Cori (@corimurray) teaches us some new tricks courtesy of her spirt animal (Cardi B), and Charli (@charlipenn) has some thoughts about the human anatomy.Fan shoutouts are back y’all, so keep telling us what you think. Hit up Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (IG @charlipenn / Twitter @manwifedog). Be sure to tag #yesgirlpodcast.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
5/3/2019 • 57 minutes, 56 seconds
Be Still Our 90s-Loving Hearts! Turn Up With Salt n Pepa and SWV
This one goes out to anyone who ever got their entire life belting out the lyrics to “Push It” or “Weak” during an epic night of karaoke. Put on your cutest 80s and 90s inspired outfits and get ready to kick it with two of the greatest female groups to ever do it in the industry. That’s right, Salt n Pepa’s here (like, for real!) and SWV is too! It’s officially ladies night as the hosts cozy up to a good keke with Salt n’ Pepa (@saltnpepaofficial) and our favorite Sisters With Voices (@officialswv). While visiting our studios to give us a sneak peek of their new reality show, Ladies Night, (premiering April 30th on BET), we discovered that Pepa and Charli have a LOT in common and Cori’s song request warmed Salt’s heart. Oh and have you seen ESSENCE’s latest viral cover starring Diddy and his daughters? Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (@charlipenn = IG / @manwifedog =Twitter) are talking all about it and raising a glass to all of the daddy-mommies out there.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
4/26/2019 • 49 minutes, 25 seconds
Robin Givens Read Us Like a Book, and We Loved It!
Y’all! Robin Givens (@robingivens) has longevity on lock! She’s been booked, busy and beautiful for over three decades. Currently, she stars in two shows - Riverdale (CW) and The Fix (ABC) - with a third show on the way this Summer (Ambitions on OWN). While visiting ESSENCE, Robin shared throwback moments from the hit film, Boomerang and recounted her last moments with Riverdale co-star, the late Luke Perry. She also taught us how to master the art of reading people, without saying a word. Robin plays no games, and we love it!Plus, we’re dishing on our college homecoming memories, thanks to Queen Bey! Share your homecoming memories with us - Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (IG @charlipenn / Twitter @manwifedog). Be sure to tag #yesgirlpodcast.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
4/18/2019 • 47 minutes, 17 seconds
Issa Rae + Regina Hall Invite Us to Their #BlackGirlMagic Party
Issa Rae (@issarae) and Regina Hall (@morereginahall) are an instant mood booster. Their comedic chemistry is so pure, we’re secretly wishing they get a TV show together. Days before the release of ‘Little’, with co-star and executive producer Marsai Martin — who, at age 10, pitched this movie idea to producer Will Packer — Cori and Charli got a sneak peak into all the #BlackGirlMagic on set.Plus we’re still in the running for this Webby y’all!!Yes, Girl fans thanks for all the love. Keep voting, and help us #WinAWebby! http://wbby.co/vote-pod15 Let Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (IG @charlipenn / Twitter @manwifedog) know you’ve voted. Be sure to tag #yesgirlpodcast.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
4/10/2019 • 38 minutes, 44 seconds
Live from Brooklyn, It’s SNL’s Chris Redd
Emmy award winner and Saturday Night Live cast member Chris Redd (@chrisreddis), is having a great year. This week, he took a break from his 30 Rock duties and visited Cori and Charli in Brooklyn, where Chris talked about his buzzy impersonations (Jussie, Kanye, Soulja Boy….the list is long), his Comedy Central album "But Here We Are," and his thoughts on why comedy shouldn’t be censored...especially for Black folks. He even gave us his shortlist of the funniest rising young Black female comediennes.Plus Yes, Girl fans help us #WinAWebby! Vote for Yes,Girl! - http://wbby.co/vote-pod15 Let Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (IG @charlipenn / Twitter @manwifedog) know you’ve voted. Be sure to tag #yesgirlpodcast.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
4/5/2019 • 52 minutes, 31 seconds
Why Salli Richardson-Whitfield Is Hollywood’s Secret Weapon
Salli Richardson-Whitfield (@sallirichwhit) is a boss on so many levels. Beyond her nearly 30 year acting career, she has become one of the top five Black female TV directors, in just three years…EPIC! Charli and Cori connected with this phenomenal woman in Los Angeles, to learn more about her secret to leveling up, while staying employed and balanced in Hollywood. Plus, we have a few theories of our own about the meaning of Jordan Peele’s ‘Us’. What are yours? Connect with Charli (IG @charlipenn + Twitter @manwifedog) and Cori (@corimurray). Be sure to use #yesgirlpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
3/28/2019 • 43 minutes, 25 seconds
Winston Duke is BAE & Wakanda...FOREVER
Guess who was In the presence of royalty? These gals!! While in Hollywood, we had a chance to hang with actor Winston Duke (@winstoncduke) who stars in Jordan Peele’s new thriller, Us, which is in theaters March 22. Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (IG/ @charlipenn Twitter/ @manwifedog) had a front row seat to get answers to all your burning questions about the scary new flick, Duke’s life after Black Panther and his love for Black women (yasss!). Plus we welcome a new member to the ESSENCE podcast family. Say hello to Marquita Harris, and her new show Unbossed!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
3/22/2019 • 43 minutes, 36 seconds
Roy Wood Jr. is the Big Brother We All Need
Roy Wood Jr. (@roywoodjr) is more than just a comedian, he’s the friend we all need in our life. This renaissance man—his has legit journalism receipts—has come a long way thanks to a legal awakening from his past. Cori (@corimurray) spent time with Roy to talk new projects on Comedy Central, getting nearly fired from jobs, plus how he almost became an heir to the Soul Train empire. Told y’all he’s lived. This week we’re jumping straight into the convo, but we’ll be back next week with Tea for the Week. XOXO! In the meantime, connect with us on social Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (@manwifedog = Twitter | @charlipenn = IG), using #yesgirlpodcastYes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray and Charli Penn @charlipennProducer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Bookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Anthony Frasier (@AnthonyFrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
3/15/2019 • 49 minutes, 29 seconds
Bozoma Saint John Is A Walking Testament To Owning Your Power
We’re spreading the international love y’all! Global boss and all-around badass Bozoma Saint John (@badassboz) is baaacckkk! The Ghanaian goddess spills the tea on how she secured Boris Kodjoe, Idris Elba, Naomi Campbell and more of her beautiful celebrity friends to the Motherland for the most epic trip ever. Plus Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (@manwifedog Twitter + @charlipenn IG) get a word from her on owning your power at all times.Black Girl Magic headquarters is all about supporting the love 365/24/7. So tell us how you’re spreading sisterhood this month, and every month. Use #yesgirlpodcast, and don’t forget to view the conversation on YouTube.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @charlipennProducer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Bookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Anthony Frasier (@AnthonyFrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
3/8/2019 • 39 minutes, 5 seconds
Eve is here for our 100th episode! She’s a master of reinvention and we’re basking in her light!
Being in Los Angeles for Oscars week and our Black Women In Hollywood event was amazing, but we have two more amazing reasons to glow this week. (1) It’s our 100th episode!!!!!! Yup, we did it! (2) We shared a one-of-kind moment with the one and only E-V-E! Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (T: @manwifedog/IG: @charlipenn) hung out with the Grammy-award winning artist/actress/designer and talk show host (The Talk!!) to discuss her incredible career, how she found her way out of the darkness and into the light and why taking a break from fame was the best thing for her health and her happiness. Plus, she’s dishing on how her husband makes her happy and celebrating self love. It’s an epic conversation you won’t want to miss!Also show us some celebration love y’all. Use #yesgirlpodcast to let us know your favorite show moments, and who you want us to interview next.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @charlipenn; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Bookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Anthony Frasier (@AnthonyFrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
3/1/2019 • 31 minutes, 16 seconds
We’re Hustling Hard with Side Hustle Pro’s Nicaila Mathews Okome
From day one, Nicaila Mathews Okome (@sidehustlepro) has been known to stand out. Through triumph, trial, and error, she has tested her talents to discover her purpose and passion. And now the test has paid off. She’s taken her curiosity about entrepreneurship, and built her own platform and profitable business. Yolanda (@yolizma), sat down with her to unpack the reality of entrepreneurship, and help those considering self employment.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @charlipenn; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Bookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Anthony Frasier (@AnthonyFrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
2/22/2019 • 40 minutes, 56 seconds
Business Is Always Personal for Killer Mike and His Wife Shay
Raise your hand if you enjoyed Killer Mike's (@killermike) Netflix special Trigger Warning with Killer Mike as much as we did. He always keeps it honest. Whether talking politics, economics, business or music we respect someone who always speaks their mind. Hope you’re ready for these keys. Charli (@charlipenn) and Yolanda (@yolizama) sat down with Killer Mike and wife, Shana “Shay” Render, to dive into how we can all contribute to building a stronger legacy for our communities, our families and ourselves. Get ready to take some notes. Class is in session. Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @charlipenn; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Bookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Anthony Frasier (@AnthonyFrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
2/15/2019 • 50 minutes, 7 seconds
DeVon Franklin Translates Your Man’s Bad Behavior
When it comes to men, who better to ask for answers than a man? Well, we hope you're sitting down, because it’s about to get honest…very honest. Producer, author, speaker and preacher, DeVon Franklin (@DeVonFranklin) stopped by, and didn’t hold back. Yolanda (@yolizama), Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (@charlipenn) got the truth about men, relationships, marriage and more, in advance of his latest book The Truth About Men. If you want to watch and listen, be sure to check out this interview on YouTube.Plus Yolanda and Charli are on a mission, and need your help. #yesgirlpodcastYes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @charlipenn; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Bookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Anthony Frasier (@AnthonyFrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
2/7/2019 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 41 seconds
We’re Black-ish and Better with the Real “Rainbow Johnson” and Life Coach Lindsay Fauntleroy
Now that January is history, we’re stepping into Black History Month blacker and better thanks to our guests Rainbow Johnson (@tharealrainbow) and life coach Lindsay Fauntleroy (@oceansandrivers). Both gave us a sense of how important it is to define success and balance it on your own terms. Lindsay offered Cori (@corimurray), Charli (@charlipenn) and Yolanda (@yolizama) insight on how to truly attract and keep what you want, while Rainbow Barris (@tharealrainbow) gave us clarity on how to balance it one you get it. Plus we check-in on the progress of our own resolutions. How are you doing?Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @charlipenn; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Bookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Anthony Frasier (@AnthonyFrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
2/2/2019 • 52 minutes, 13 seconds
Amanda Seales Wants Black Women to Win
Friend to the show Amanda Seales (@amandaseales) truly does it all – comedienne, actress, activist, podcaster, DJ, and host. This week she’s back celebrating the premiere of her one-hour HBO comedy show, I Be Knowin’, which is major because she’s the second Black woman to have a standup comedy special on the network. We love Amanda because she’s smart, funny and Black (see what we did there?). Plus, she’s fearless when she’s expressing her love and support of Black women. On this episode, we raise a glass to Amanda’s big wins, celebrate her hustle, and allow her to do what she does best: get a few things off her chest. Plus, Cori (@corimurray), Yolanda (@yolizama) and Charli (T:@manwifedog/IG: @charlipenn) have thoughts about that juicy Fyre doc everyone is talking about, because….girl!Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @charlipenn; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Bookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Anthony Frasier (@AnthonyFrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
1/25/2019 • 59 minutes, 48 seconds
Be Yourself, Because Everyone Else Is Taken
How can you be your best self if you’re not being true to who you are? All month, we’re helping you do the work of getting to know and love who you are in 2019.Look out for these bonus self-care episodes, all month long. This week, Yes, Girl’s Yolanda Sangweni (@yolizma)…aka our Yo-prah meets with artist, author and speaker Neycha (@neycha) to discuss authenticity and how we can be true to ourselves. From code-switching and imposter syndrome to the social media trap, Neycha has ways for us to face the person in the mirror. Psst…stay to the end of the episode, we have some self-care homework for you.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @charlipenn; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Bookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Anthony Frasier (@AnthonyFrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
1/23/2019 • 36 minutes, 16 seconds
Beloveds! Iyanla Vanzant Speaks On R. Kelly, Practicing Self Love and Healing Our Community
Grab the sage and get ready for spiritual healer Iyanla Vanzant (@IyanlaVanzant) to cleanse and bless your soul for 2019. That’s right beloveds, Mrs. Vanzant brings her love and light to Yes, Girl this week and we couldn’t be more excited. When she speaks, lives change. So we couldn’t wait to hear what’s in store for season six of Iyanla, Fix My Life. She keeps it candid about her guests, how she prepares them to do the work on the show, and shares why you must protect your energy at all costs. Plus Cori (@corimurray), Charli (@charlipenn) and Yolanda (@yolizama) receive some anecdotes on how we heal as a culture in the wake of the R. Kelly revelations. Go to essence.com for the video version of this conversation.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @charlipenn; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Bookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Anthony Frasier (@AnthonyFrasier)Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
1/18/2019 • 38 minutes, 35 seconds
How Ronnie and Shamari DeVoe Saved Their Marriage and Made It Stronger
Ronnie (@bigrondevoe) and Shamari (@shamaridevoe) DeVoe aren't new to this fame game, but they certainly are the real thing. With nearly 40 years in the industry (combined), this celebrity couple has seen much as a duo, and as individuals. Now embarking on another chapter, after nearly 15 years of marriage, Ronnie (New Edition, BellBivDeVoe) and Shamari (Blaque, RHOA) spent some time with Yes,Girl to talk marriage, open relationships, and weathering the storm in marriage and music. Plus Cori (@corimurray), Yolanda (@yolizama) and Charli (@charlipenn) share some fan love, and take a deep dive into where we go from here as Black women and girls, in light of the Surviving R.Kelly docuseries. Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @charlipenn; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Bookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Agerenesh Ashagre (@agerenesh) Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
1/11/2019 • 1 hour, 11 minutes, 56 seconds
Are You the Driver or the Passenger in Your Own Life?
You spoke, and we answered! Thanks to the overwhelming love from last week’s self-care episode. we treating our Yes, Girl family to bonus self-care episodes every Tuesday in January. Hosted by Yes, Girl’s Yolanda Sangweni (@yolizma)…aka our Yo-prah, these episodes are meant to help you do the work to being your best in 2019.First up, Yolanda and Charreah K. Jackson, @charreah, (Author, Entrepreneur, Senior Editor at ESSENCE) discuss the power in taking ownership of your life (even the messy parts) to manifest the goals you want.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @charlipenn; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Bookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Agerenesh Ashagre (@agerenesh) Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
1/10/2019 • 27 minutes, 17 seconds
Actions Speak Louder Than Resolutions
Happy New Year, family! Sure, it’s Winter break, but we just couldn’t break away from giving you something to listen to. This week, we’ve skipped the celebrity guest to dedicate time to helping you hit your 2019 goals. What are you giving up, and going after? Yolanda (@yolizama), Cori (@corimurray) and Charli Penn (@charlipenn) dish on their new year’s goals (not resolutions), and challenge you to do the same. Be sure to share your thoughts on social and tag #yesgirlpodcast. We want to support your #goals!Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @charlipenn; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Bookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Agerenesh Ashagre (@agerenesh) Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
1/4/2019 • 28 minutes, 22 seconds
Lil Rel Howery and Trevante Rhodes are Funny, Sexy and Cool
It's always a good day when bae comes to visit, and we're ending the year with a double dose. Lil Rel Howery (@LilRel4) and Trevante Rhodes (@_Trevante_) graced us with their good vibes and good looks during a stop in NYC to promote their new Netflix psycho-thriller, Birdbox. Cori (@corimurray) and Yolanda (@yolizama) joined the duo for laughs and a little self-reflection.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @charlipenn; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Bookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Agerenesh Ashagre (@agerenesh) Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
12/27/2018 • 41 minutes, 14 seconds
Erica Campbell is Booked, Busy and Blessed
Erica Campbell (@ImEricaCampbell) is a master of many trades, on the low. The Grammy award-winning singer, radio host, entrepreneur, wife, and mother can't be stopped from fulfilling God's purpose for her life. Cori (@corimurray) and Yolanda (@yolizama) caught up with Erica immediately after her interview with "mom" Michelle Obama (eek!) to talk about music, her family, and how to live a purpose-filled life.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @charlipenn; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Bookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Agerenesh Ashagre (@agerenesh) Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
12/20/2018 • 42 minutes, 6 seconds
Two Snaps and A Circle For David Alan Grier's Career
Enter the presence of comedy royalty. Since the 80s there isn’t a decade that David Alan Grier (@davidalangrier) hasn’t put his stamp on. From Broadway and In Living Color to Boomerang and The Wiz Live!, chances are one of his characters made a mark on your childhood. Yolanda (@yolizama) and Cori (@corimurray) spent time with the thespian and comedian, currently co-starring on The Cool Kids, and read his receipts, discovered his role in Tiffany Haddish’s career and discussed what it’s like finding love the second time around. Interview Starts @ 23:55Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @charlipenn; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Bookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Agerenesh Ashagre (@agerenesh) Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
12/14/2018 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 14 seconds
Bet On Yourself, Like Jemele Hill Did
Anchor and journalist Jemele Hill has lived many lives and endured many trials in her career. She’s seen the highs and the lows of what it means to be your most authentic self. Surely, taking uncertain risk is always a gamble, but it pays to bet on yourself. For Jemele the payoff has been big. Charli (@manwifedog) and Yolanda (@yolizama) celebrate her new wins - new job, new business, new coins - and take a stroll down memory lane recalling what it was like growing up as 80s babies.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Bookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Agerenesh Ashagre (@agerenesh) Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
12/6/2018 • 46 minutes, 57 seconds
Love Callled, and Porsha Williams Answered
Porsha Williams (@porsha4real) is having a glow up that is meant-to-be. She has a new man, a new ring, a new baby on the way. Plus she’s securing bags from every angle. Nothing is slowing down this Southern belle. Cori (@corimurray), Charli (@manwifedog) and Yolanda (@yolizama) sit down with the queen of the South to dig into those rumors about her relationship, her “friendship” with Kandi, and what’s next in this new chapter of her life story. It's tea time y'all! So grab a glass and sip with us.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Bookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Agerenesh Ashagre (@agerenesh) Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11/29/2018 • 39 minutes, 59 seconds
A Thanksgiving Word with David + Tamela Mann
Yes, Girl is coming to Thanksgiving dinner and we didn’t come empty-handed. We brought love and light through David and Tamela Mann (@davidandtamela)! This blessed, and highly-favored couple has soared to new plateaus as entertainers and entrepreneurs, but remain grounded in family and faith. Yolanda and Charli bonded with The Manns as they share the secret recipes to staying together and having staying power, from their new book “Us Against the World: Our Secrets to Love, Marriage, and Family." Plus you know it wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without the food. David Mann bless the table, while Yolanda (@yolizama), Cori (@corimurray), and Charli (@manwifedog) talk dinner fails, and favorite meals.Happy Thanksgiving YG Fam!Be sure to share your holiday moments with us on social #yesgirlpodcast.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Bookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Agerenesh Ashagre (@agerenesh) Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11/22/2018 • 56 minutes, 27 seconds
Go Best Friend! Tisha Campbell And Tichina Arnold In The House
In the true spirit of giving, we’re serving up an extra portion of Yes, Girl this week. Grab your seat at this table because you’re about to get full. Fresh off of hosting and co-producing the Soul Train Awards (airing 11/25 on BET), original #bestfriendgoals — Tisha Campbell (@tishacampbellmartin) and Tichina Arnold (@tichinaarnold) — gave Yolanda (@yolizama), Cori (@corimurray), and Charli (@manwifedog) a front-row seat to their 30 + year bond.They take us down memory lane with celebrity friend stories, including why a ride on a “blood boat” required them to take a time out for a few weeks. Plus, Tisha opens up about life after divorce and the ladies pick up where Jill Scott left off, sharing some “skillful” tips.P.S. Yes another serving of Yes, Girl will drop on Thanksgiving.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Bookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Agerenesh Ashagre (@agerenesh) Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11/21/2018 • 54 minutes, 37 seconds
NeNe Leakes Is Stronger Than Ever and Owning Her Dopeness
Just days after the Season 11 premiere of the The Real Housewives Of Atlanta, we sat down with no-nonsense star NeNe Leakes (@NeNe Leakes) for one of her most vulnerable interviews yet. The Broadway and television actress, entrepreneur and reality star opened up about her husband Gregg’s shocking cancer diagnosis, why it changed them forever and how she’s held his hand throughout the fight of his life. Plus, Leakes reflects on her own receipts (as Andy Cohen says, "RHOA is the house that NeNe built"), living healthier and staying fabulous. In Tea For The Week Yolanda and Charli are all about Gabrielle Union and Dwayne Wade’s baby news, silencing mommy-shamers and counting down the days until Thanksgiving.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Bookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Agerenesh Ashagre (@agerenesh) Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11/15/2018 • 41 minutes, 9 seconds
How Faith and Love Heal w/ Michelle Williams and Fiancé Chad Johnson
Singer Michelle Williams (@RealMichelleW) and her fiancé, professional sports chaplain Chad Johnson (@PastorCJ), have one of the most moving love stories this year. After finding love unexpectedly through the bond in their shared faith and getting engaged, their happiness was derailed when Williams revealed she was battling severe depression. She checked herself into a treatment facility with Johnson standing right by her side. Now they’re back on the road to matrimony and documenting their journey to the altar on their new OWN series, Chad Loves Michelle. Charli (@ManWifeDog) and Cori (@CoriMurray) sat down with the soon-to-be-newlyweds to discuss the importance of owning your truth, finding a spiritual partner and healing from the power of love. Plus, the ladies are dishing on the midterm election highs and lows and how they plan to reactivate their joy.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11/8/2018 • 52 minutes, 28 seconds
A Seat At the Red Table with Jada Pinkett-Smith and Her Mom Adrienne Banfield-Norris
Are you ready for all of that longevity tea?! Charli (@ManWifeDog) and Cori (@corimurray) pulled up a seat at the famous red table with Jada Pinkett-Smith (@jadapsmith) and her mom, Adrienne Banfield-Norris (@adriennebanfieldnorris) for a chat on maintaining love, marriage and yourself through the years. Plus, Yes, Girl! reunites with Yolanda (@yolizama), who’s back from maternity leave, and she shares her emotional birth story. In Tea for the Week, they discuss Kanye’s latest flip-floppin’, Cardi B’s instagram gems and Black folks' urgency to rock this midterm election vote. With the girls back together, grab your mugs because the tea is served.**Interview w/ Jada Pinkett-Smith starts at the 21:12 markYes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey (@misstiffsays)Bookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Agerenesh Ashagre (@agerenesh) Music: Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11/1/2018 • 35 minutes, 47 seconds
A Lesson In Finding Your Purpose With Beauty Boss Jackie Aina
When you're living in your purpose, nothing can stop you. Beauty super-influencer and YouTube sensation Jackie Aina (@jackieaina) is living fabulously inside and out. But don't get it confused, her success is a decade in the making. Hear how Jackie went from being married and in the military to carving out the luxe life of her dreams. Yes, having a social media following of over 2 million always helps, but she had to start somewhere. Jackie breaks down her path to power. Cori Murray (@corimurray) and guest host, ESSENCE Beauty Director Julee Wilson (@missjulee), get the deets on what's new, now and next for this soaring supernova.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey @MissTiffSaysBookings: Rorna Richards Audio Engineer: Agerenesh AshagreMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
10/25/2018 • 29 minutes, 47 seconds
DeRay McKesson Makes His Case for Hope
When he joined the Ferguson protests against the senseless murder of Mike Brown, DeRay McKesson (@deray) had no idea his life would change forever. The educator-turned-activist, podcaster and author explains why he spends every day being a voice for change on the frontline of the fight for our civil rights. On a book tour for his collection of personal essays, On the Other Side of Freedom: The Case for Hope, McKesson talks with Cori about the weight of it all, from finding balance when justice tilts towards racism to living a full, authentic life as a Black gay man. Plus Charli and Cori discuss the daily burdens of breathing while Black in America and why the film The Hate U Give is a shining salute for the work of Black Lives Matter activists everywhere. Charli's also recapping all the fun that was had over the weekend at ESSENCE's first ever Black Love Ball.Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey @MissTiffSaysBookings: Rorna Richards Audio engineer: Agerenesh AshagreMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
10/18/2018 • 32 minutes, 48 seconds
A Lesson In Self Love w/ Vivica A. Fox and Raven Symoné
It’s only fitting that after our self-love masterclass with the one-and-only Mikki Taylor that we follow up with two inspiring interviews with amazing women who love themselves completely and are comfortable in their own skin—Cori’s talking grown woman things with actress, producer, TV host, entrepreneur, author (receipts!), and certified boss, Ms. Vivica A. Fox, and later, Charli joins in the fun as the ladies talk authenticity, success and finding your lane with Disney queen and Raven’s Home star, Raven Symone. Plus, Vivica’s giving us all of the tea on her new daily show, Face The Truth. Plus, Cori’s doing big things (and sharing big news), and she and Charli go IN about how they keep their cool on the job when they’re fan-girling out over big stars, Tessa Thompson’s sexy new ESSENCE cover, and more!Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Tiffany Ashitey @MissTiffSaysBookings: Rorna Richards Audio engineer: Agerenesh AshagreMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
10/11/2018 • 46 minutes, 17 seconds
Boo'd Up: Remy Ma and Papoose's Countdown to Baby Mackie
Don’t you just love the way Papoose (@PapoosePapoose) loves his wife Remy Ma (@RemyMa)?! The Mackies are back and sharing the love like only they can. The madly-in-love pair cozy up with Cori (@CoriMurray) and Charli (@ManWifeDog) to share their baby excitement, the tea on their new reality series on VH1, "Meet The Mackies," and the secret to loving each other through whatever life through their way.Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosCo-Producer: Tiffany Ashitey @MissTiffSaysBookings: Rorna Richards Audio engineer: Agerenesh AshagreMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
10/4/2018 • 27 minutes, 44 seconds
From Self-Care to Slay with Mikki Taylor, Plus Star’s Ryan Destiny
Tapping into one’s best self can take some work. Luckily Mikki Taylor (@IAmMikkiTaylor), Essence’s longtime beauty expert, has written a blueprint in her current book, Editor-in-Chief: How to Style and Be Your Most Empowered Self. Mikki gives a preach and a prayer on renewing one’s self-worth, style and senses. Plus, fall TV is in full swing and we’re chatting with Star’s Ryan Destiny (@RyanDestiny). NOTE: Sorry in advance to those listening to this episode in your headphones, Mercury was in full retrograde when we recorded the Mikki interview and Cori's mic was tripping.Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosCo-Producer: Tiffany Ashitey @MissTiffSaysBookings: Rorna Richards Audio engineer: Chiquita Pascal @ChiquitaPaschalMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
9/28/2018 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 20 seconds
Love Is In the Hair: Conversations with Sanaa Lathan and Lynn Whitfield, plus Curly Girl Collective’s Gia Lowe
Within Black sisterhood, the relationship with hair is one of our strongest bonds. It’s why Sanaa Lathan (@sanaalathan) took a leap of faith (and clippers!) for her leading role – alongside the ever fabulous Lynn Whitfield (@mslynnwhitfield) -- in Netflix's Nappily Ever After, the long awaited adaptation of the novel about a woman’s search for love beyond her head. In person, the actresses reveal their personal journey to self love and acceptance. And we couldn’t talk about our ‘dos without chatting with experts we love – our very own fashion and beauty director Julee Wilson (@missjulee) and Gia Lowe (@gia.lo) of the Curly Girl Collective (@curlygirlcollective), the hair hub for Black women who produced the epic CurlFest.Curly Girl Collective Starts @ 11:45Sanaa Lathan & Lynn Whitfield Starts @ 35:20Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosCo-Producer: Tiffany Ashitey @MissTiffSaysAudio Engineer: Chiquita Pascal @ChiquitaPaschalBookings: Rorna Richards & Joi-Marie McKenzieMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
9/20/2018 • 52 minutes, 37 seconds
The Black Women Behind LeBron James' New Sneaker
Have you ever had a life changing phone call? That’s what Harlem Fashion Row (@hfrmovement) founder Brandice Daniel (@brandicedaniel) received when LeBron James asked for her collaboration on his 16th sneaker for Nike. What they developed made history: It’s the first Nike sneaker designed by Black women for women. Daniel recommended three designers from her collective: Undra Celeste (@love_ucny), Kimberly Goldson (@kimberlygoldson) and Fe Noel (@fenoel). All four phenomenal women join us for a discussion about having — and maintaining — a seat at the fashion table.Yes, Girl! Hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosCo-Producer: Tiffany Ashitey @MissTiffSaysAudio Engineer: Chiquita Pascal @ChiquitaPaschalBookings: Rorna RichardsMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
9/13/2018 • 51 minutes, 25 seconds
Lil Rel Howery Hearts Awkward Black Girls
Lil Rel Howery’s having a helluva year. Since playing the TSA Agent whose spidey senses saved his best friend in “Get Out”, the stand up comic has been cosigned by JAY Z and Kevin Hart. This month, Rel (@LilRel4) leads his own self-titled sitcom loosely based on his life as a single dad in Chicago. Things are only getting better too: Rel’s ready for a love connection and Charli’s lining one up. BTW ladies: He likes his women a little awkward and awesome. Plus Yolanda’s bundle of joy has arrived -- send her congratulations at @yolizama -- and Charli (@ManWifeDog) and Cori (@corimurray) make the most of their time in an Uber.Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosCo-Producer: Tiffany Ashitey @MissTiffSaysAudio Engineer: Chiquita Pascal @ChiquitaPaschalBookings: Rorna RichardsMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
9/6/2018 • 37 minutes, 49 seconds
Bobby Brown and Alicia Etheredge-Brown share the love
Before "The Bobby Brown Story" has us all in our feelings, we went straight to the source for the story behind the story of how Bobby Brown found a second chance at love and life with his wife and business partner Alicia Etheredge Brown. They invited us over for an intimate conversation about sustaining their faith-based marriage, keeping Bobbi Kristina's memory alive and getting Brown's iconic story right (The Bobby Brown Story airs September 4 and 5 on BET). Plus Charli asks where do you get your astro wisdom because although a psychic once told Cori she'd find love abroad, she did not come back with a British bae after her trip to London. Not even close. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
8/30/2018 • 37 minutes, 14 seconds
Mixing Business and Pleasure With Rev Run and Justine Simmons
Rev Run (@revrunwisdom) and his wife Justine Simmons’ new Netflix family drama All About The Washingtons is out, and it’s official: everyone is hooked! We sat down with the married sitcom stars to talk about how they’ve learned to successfully mix business with pleasure (spoiler: Rev Run refused to agree to the show until Justine signed on too!), their secret to a lasting marriage, and how they knew Justine would be such a natural onscreen! Plus, Cori and Charli remember Aretha Franklin, react to Nicki Minaj’s latest Twitter rant and size up Kanye’s wedding guest attire. Grab your mugs, it’s tea time!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
8/27/2018 • 32 minutes, 15 seconds
Triple Threat and Black Rom-Com Bae Taye Diggs Is Here!
You know we love to hear from the fellas, and this week one of your favorites is in the house. Taye Diggs (@tayediggs) has mastered it all — theater, movies and TV. He stopped by to talk about his secret to success, hosting the inaugural episodes of Crossovers, a new talk show appearing on streaming network Stage, and to fatherhood. Plus, Black rom-com queen Charli asks burning questions about some of the classics he starred in and finds out what’s up with The Best Man Wedding movie we’re all waiting on. Plus, Cori and Charli pour up the tea for the week! Note: This interview was pre-recorded before the passing of The Queen Of Soul, Aretha Franklin.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
8/20/2018 • 41 minutes, 34 seconds
Summertime Shine with Tracy G.
This week we talk to ESSENCE 2018 Millennial Love Leader and wellness mami, Tracy G (@itstracyg) about all things health and fitness. Plus! We catch up with entertainment director Cori Murray (@corimurray) as she returns from her Caribbean vacation with a #popping glow. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
8/9/2018 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 15 seconds
Let’s Hear It For Sherri Shepherd’s Powerful Sister Circle
If a sister-friend’s love ever got you through the fire, this episode is for YOU! Actress, comedienne and host Sherri Shepherd (@sherrieshepherd) brings the laughs and the wisdom this week as she promotes the return of her hit NBC show Trial & Error: Lady Killer. Sherri recalls how her dear friend Niecy Nash’s love helped to lift her through a difficult time, shares the joys and realities of being a hard working mom and explains how, no matter what, she’s always able to choose joy.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
8/2/2018 • 51 minutes, 20 seconds
Hey Auntie! Angela Bassett Is Here, Plus 'Blindspotting’s Daveed Diggs & Rafael Casel Came Through
Prepare yourself for a moment in Black Hollywood excellence as we share an epic conversation with screen queen Angela Bassett (@imangelabassett). Bassett, who’s in the soon-to-be summer hit Mission Impossible: Fallout, shares her secrets to ageless beauty, a lasting career and a peaceful family (hint: her kids aren’t allowed to have cell phones). And yes, we asked the sixty-year-old stunner to recite a classic line from What’s Love Got To Do With It. You’ll never guess which one it is. Plus: Charli (@ManWifeDog) relives her Oakland days with Bay Boys Daveed Diggs (@daveeddiggs) and Rafael Casal (@rafaelcasal), who both wrote and star in the buzzy buddy film Blindspotting.--Angela Bassett starts at 12:00Daveed Diggs and Rafael Casal interview: 31:00--Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosAudio engineer: Chiquita Pascal @ChiquitaPaschalMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
7/26/2018 • 53 minutes, 29 seconds
Brunch with Bae: We got cozy with Michael B. Jordan at ESSENCE Fest
When Michael B. Jordan posted “s/o to the baby oil lady” in the IG caption for his first solo ESSENCE cover, inquiring minds wanted to know: How can I apply for the job next time? Well, we invited Michael “Bae” to brunch at ESSENCE Fest — with some special invited friends — to discuss his application process among other things. During a steamy afternoon in New Orleans, Michael shared what his life has been like since the global success of Black Panther, the women he counts as his sheroes and who keeps him grounded, why his brotherhood with Ryan Coogler is so strong and how he’s intent on living a full, happy life. Are you ready to get personal with bae?Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosAudio engineer: Chiquita Pascal @ChiquitaPaschalMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
7/18/2018 • 56 minutes, 7 seconds
Girl Down! Big Freedia’s Our Guest In New Orleans, Plus The First Purge Cast Is Here!
We’re still on a high from our biggest ESSENCE Fest yet and we’re reliving the moment we shared opening for The Read LIVE in New Orleans! We brought NOLA’s own Queen Of Bounce, Big Freedia (@bigfreedia), along to Kid Fury & Crissle’s (@thisistheread) show to help us get the crowd hype. And, oh what fun we had! Big Freedia reveals how she found her confidence, why she doesn’t care if you call her Freddie or Freedia and how New Orleans does it best. Plus, we caught up with summer movie stars Y’lan Noel (Daniel from Insecure) and Lex Scott Davis (@scottyeye) from The First Purge. You already knoooooowww.Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosAudio engineer: Chiquita Pascal @ChiquitaPaschalMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
7/13/2018 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 15 seconds
We Saw A Ghost In Miami! Yup, Omari Hardwick’s Here!
OMG we saw a ghost, ya’ll! That’s right, STARZ’s hit drama Power is back and hotter than ever, so it was only fitting we get caught up with our bae Omari Hardwick (@omarihardwick) during the American Black Film Festival in Miami. Omari and ESSENCE go way back like Atari. We dug right in as he opened up about fame, fatherhood, becoming Ghost, and how hard he’s been hustling for his craft. Plus Charli, Cori and Yolanda are in NOLA, grubbing and grinding for Essence Fest.Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosAudio engineer: Chiquita Pascal @ChiquitaPaschalMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
7/6/2018 • 36 minutes, 49 seconds
'Luke Cage' Star Simone Missick Could Teach a Masterclass In Praying and Believing
One thing we learned from Simone Missick (@SimoneMissick): She knows how to pray. Back for Luke Cage’s second season kicking more ass (with one arm), Simone’s tapped into a higher power that’s blessed her with an in-demand career on stage and screen and loving husband (hey, Dorian Missick). Literally minutes before Simone took the stage at Netflix’s Strong Black Lead panel at the American Black Film Festival (@abff), she chatted with Yes, Girl! about her work-life-love-faith balance — yes, she’s tired but she’s thankful — and why Detroit girls never leave the house without slaying.Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosAudio engineer: Chiquita Pascal @ChiquitaPaschalMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
6/28/2018 • 39 minutes, 22 seconds
Matters of the Heart with Mara Brock Akil
Yes, Girl jumpstarted summer with a last-minute trip to Miami for the American Black Film Festival (@abff). In between movies and mojitos, we chatted with Mara Brock Akil (@marabrockakil) about her new series Love Is_ (@LoveIsOWN), which takes us back to the beginning of her real life love story with husband Salim Akil. The series is already a fave of Charli’s (@ManWifeDog) who knows the real thing when she sees it. Plus, we’re thankful our Tidal subscriptions were active when the Carters’ dropped Everything Is Love. Like the rest of the world, we went apesh*t.Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosAudio engineer: Chiquita Pascal @ChiquitaPaschalMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
6/21/2018 • 37 minutes, 42 seconds
We Weren’t Ready! Marlon Wayans Pours Out His Heart and Opens Up About the Realities of Fatherhood
Comedian, actor, director and producer Marlon Wayans (@marlonwayans) returns to Yes, Girl! for more unfiltered conversation. He’s celebrating the return of his hit sitcom Marlon (season 2 premieres tonight on NBC) and going in about the realities of being a father, co-parenting and why White Chicks was one of his all-time favorite projects. Plus, Marlon beautifully explains why he and his ex are truly the best of friends (and that’s better for them both), his wonderful relationship with his mother and brothers, and why he’s better off single. Plus, he doesn’t think he’s actually “rich” and his explanation is as real as it is funny! We love him more after this conversation and we’re certain you will too! Get into it!Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosAudio engineer: Chiquita Pascal @ChiquitaPaschalMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
6/14/2018 • 59 minutes, 37 seconds
Boss Moves Brought To You By Mona Scott-Young
Multi-millionaire reality TV boss Mona Scott-Young (@monascottyoung) has been quietly building her Monami Entertainment empire for over 20 years and she has a mile-long list of receipts to prove it. The talent manager and Love and Hip Hop creator comes through to share her recipe for ongoing success, her personal mantras, the tea on her forthcoming new fiction book, Blurred Lines, and her praise for our girl Cardi B! Grab your mugs, loves, because this tea is hot like fire! Plus, Charli and Yolanda weigh in on the Drake vs. Pusha T rap beef, Roseanne (bye, Felicia!) Barr’s racist rants and DMing gone wrong.Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosAudio engineer: Chiquita Pascal @ChiquitaPaschalMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
5/31/2018 • 54 minutes, 21 seconds
Taraji’s Got A Man At Hoooooome (Encore Episode)
In case you guys haven't heard the news, our girl Taraji P. Henson (@TheRealTaraji) got engaged on Mother’s Day. In honor of her big news — remember when she confirmed her and Kelvin Hayden’s relationship exclusively on "Yes, Girl!"? — we’re re-airing our epic interview with Taraji in Jamaica where she spilled all of the hot tea. Plus, Charli, Cori and Yolanda get their best British accents together just in time for Meghan Markle’s royal wedding, recap their Mother’s Day highs and lows and applaud Jada Pinkett Smith for all of these grown woman confessions she’s dropping on her new Facebook live show, Red Table Talk. Are your mugs ready because the tea is served.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
5/17/2018 • 51 minutes, 39 seconds
Jay Ellis Explains Why Men Really Hate Being Called F*ck Bois
Bae is here! Insecure star and new American Black Film Festival host Jay Ellis (@jayrellis) came through to talk all things Beyonce, Black Hollywood excellence and, of course, TV “f*ck bois” like his character Lawrence. Plus, Charli and Yolanda go IN about their true thoughts on R. Kelly, the latest Kanye West foolery and traveling (and renting homes) while Black.Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosAudio engineer: Chiquita Pascal @ChiquitaPaschalMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
5/11/2018 • 57 minutes, 25 seconds
Getting All the Longevity Tea with Our Fave Fabulous Auntie, Vanessa Bell Calloway
We’ve loved legendary actress Vanessa Bell Calloway since, like, forever. From Coming to America to What’s Love Got to Do With It?, Calloway has wowed us on the big screen. Now she’s on the small screen, starring in BounceTV’s Saints and Sinners — she even directed an episode. She paid us a visit to talk longevity in Hollywood, her squad of girlfriends (which includes Tina Lawson and Cookie Johnson), staying fabulous in your 60s, and secrets to her 30-year marriage. Plus, we talk Kanye’s slavery comments, Kelis dishing on Nas, and the Bill Cosby verdict. #yesgirlpodcastYes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosAudio engineer: Chiquita Pascal @ChiquitaPaschalMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
5/4/2018 • 57 minutes, 17 seconds
As Free as She Wanna Be: Janelle Monáe
“I’m happy to be a Black woman making art, as free as I want to right now.” That’s the space singer and actress Janelle Monáe (@janellemonae) occupies as she unveils her boldest work yet, Dirty Computer. In the episode, Monáe opens up about why the new album is near and dear to her heart, her earliest memories of Prince and the impact he left, and why the revolution will be female. Tea for The Week is short and sweet: Beychella strikes again, Waffle House shooting survivor James Shaw, Jr. is a national hero and oh, Kanye, Kanye, Kanye. Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosAudio engineer: Chiquita Pascal @ChiquitaPaschalMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
4/26/2018 • 43 minutes, 36 seconds
Beychella Hangovers, Woke Notes with Tessa Thompson and ESSENCE President Michelle Ebanks On What's Next
In this high season of Black Excellence, we start our episode in acknowledgment and praise for Beyoncé’s salute to HBCU’s greeks and goddesses at Beychella’s first weekend. Next, a sit-down with Michelle Ebanks, president of Essence Communications Inc, and actress and activist Tessa Thompson (@TessaThompson_x). Both women are leading movements: Michelle’s helming Black Girl Magic headquarters with a vision to super-serve Black women, and Tessa’s fiercely advocating for diversity representation on screen and off through her work as a founding member of Time’s Up. In the spirit of King Bey, we came to slay. #yesgirlpodcast Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosAudio engineer: Chiquita Pascal @ChiquitaPaschalMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
4/19/2018 • 1 hour, 26 minutes, 4 seconds
A deep dive into why we’re here for Cardi B., plus Erica Ash shares why she’s ready to be a leading lady
This week’s tea is piping hot because it’s all about bonafide super star, Cardi B. (@iamcardib). She’s brought a cultural shift with the release on her first album and baby reveal. With help from special guest ESSENCE Senior News and Culture Editor Christina Coleman (@ChrissyCole), the hosts unpack Cardi’s big wins and bigger influence from her humble Instagram beginnings and her reality TV fame. Plus, Survivors Remorse’s Erica Ash (@theericaash) becomes a leading lady in BET’s new drama, In Contempt. She stopped by for loads of laughs and real talk about finding her divine lane in Hollywood.Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosAudio engineer: Chiquita Pascal @ChiquitaPaschalMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
4/13/2018 • 1 hour, 6 minutes, 17 seconds
Sonequa Martin-Green boldly takes us to the land of Black girl joy
Our obsession with Sonequa Martin-Green (@SonequaMG) began when we fell in love with her character Sasha on The Walking Dead. Now we’re cheering her on as she helms Star Trek: Discovery — she’s literally playing captain Michael Burnham on the hit prequel streaming on CBS All Access. Within minutes of our chat, we agree Sonequa is Black girl joy realized. She lets us in on what it’s like being a bomb Black woman in Hollywood, plus confesses all the feels she had saying goodbye to TWD (even though her hubby is still on the show) and relocating to La La Land. Her feel-good vibes are contagious, promise! Also in this episode’s Tea for the Week, Charli (@ManWifeDog) and Cori (@corimurray) debate what’s worth a TV reboot these days. Tell us what you think using #yesgirlpodcast.Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosAudio engineer: Chiquita Pascal @ChiquitaPaschalMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
4/6/2018 • 45 minutes, 10 seconds
Tyler Perry gives a word on faith, fatherhood and acting on your dreams!
Faith, family and forgiveness — and very Black — that’s the formula that has made Tyler Perry (@tylerperry) one of the most successful storytellers in Hollywood. But as he chatted with us about his new film Acrimony, Tyler opened up about how fatherhood has informed his work, creating generational wealth and whether or not he thinks he's funny.Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosAudio engineer: Chiquita Paschal @ChiquitaPaschalMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
3/29/2018 • 33 minutes, 33 seconds
Jussie Smollett meets us in Arkansas + Roxanne Shante and Chante Adams on finally telling this hip hop legends story
Our podcast cup runneth over this week with three special guests: Jussie Smollett (@jussiesmollett) who, hours after wrapping up a project in Memphis, drove through the night so he could spend the afternoon with us in Bentonville, Arkansas. During our live recording, Jussie gave us a preview of his new album Sum of My Music and why he celebrates Black History Month every day. Back in New York, we sit down with hip-hop legend Roxanne Shante (@ImroxanneShante) and the ingénue who plays her, Chanté Adams (@chanteaadams), in Netflix’s biopic Roxanne, Roxanne. Plus, @yolizama wants to know “What feeds your soul?” Tell us using #yesgirlpodcastYes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosAudio engineer: Chiquita Pascal @ChiquitaPaschalMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
3/22/2018 • 1 hour, 46 minutes, 2 seconds
**BONUS** She better preach! Why Iyanla Vanzant wants people to stop clinging on to struggle
Our Yo-Prah, ESSENCE's Yolanda Sangweni, sits down with spiritual coach and author Iyanla Vanzant to talk about the new season of Iyanla: Fix My Life, her upcoming tour and new book. Vanzant also shares her favorite memories from the show, and why this season will be transformative. Plus, “Mama Iyanla" gives us a good talking to about why she wants some Black folks to stop clinging on to struggle. A word was delivered and we received it. Yes, Girl! host: Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosAudio Engineer: @chiquitaPashMusic: Gold Standard Creative: @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
3/20/2018 • 33 minutes, 51 seconds
Black Panther’s costume designer Ruth Carter + actress Florence Kasumba take us behind-the-scenes of Wakanda
This week, Black Panther hit the billion dollar mark at the box office, and we’re still in Wakanda heaven. If the movie's amazing visuals gave you life, then so will legendary film and television costume designer Ruth Carter, who created the film’s unforgettable wardrobe. Ruth paid us a visit in L.A. and gave us the tea on the vision behind the looks our new favorite characters rocked on screen, how her incredible career began on the set of Spike Lee’s School Daze and why she’s all about keeping it real...for the culture. Plus, Ruth (@iamruthecarter) and Cori (@corimurray) gush over being proud Hampton University grads, and Charli (@charlipenn) asks Ruth for tips on how to get her DIY Dora Milaje Halloween costume together. Next, Florence Kasumba (who plays Ayo, the fierce Dora Milaje) stops by to tell us all about how she prepared, both mentally and physically, to play the ultimate badass for the role of a lifetime.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
3/15/2018 • 1 hour, 21 minutes, 28 seconds
Kym Whitley on the plight of Black female comediennes…and Mo’Nique argument!
Everyone’s favorite auntie Kym Whitley (@kymwhitley) drives nearly two hours in LA traffic (thank you, boo!) for an unfiltered chat about inequality amongst women in comedy (yes she hears Mo’Nique's point but…), Lena Waithe’s genius writing and balancing the life of stand-up comedy and motherhood. Speaking of hard working moms, Yolanda (@yolizama) has some BIG news. Plus Charli’s (@ManWifeDog) lashes barely survived ESSENCE’s Black Women in Hollywood awards and Cori (@corimurray) twirled at the Oscars and nearly took a picture of Jordan Peele at the Governors Ball (she explains why she didn't).Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosAudio engineer: @ChiquitaPaschalMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
3/8/2018 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 31 seconds
Lena Waithe on how dope it is to be a Black woman in Hollywood right now
When ESSENCE Black Women In Hollywood 2018 honoree Lena Waithe (@lenawaithe) says come over when you get to L.A., you take the fastest Uber you can find and come on through. Waithe returns to the podcast to discuss her historic Emmy win, her hit drama "The Chi," and how special it is to be Black, creative and winning in Hollywood right now.Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray); Charli Penn( IG: @CharliPenn/ Twitter: @ManWifeDog); and Yolanda Sangweni (@yolizama)Producer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
3/1/2018 • 59 minutes, 11 seconds
All Rise For Black Panther’s Princess Shuri: It’s Letitia Wright Appreciation Day
(Warning: spoiler alert!) Black Panther’s finally (!!!) here and while everyone is everything in Wakanda, Princess Shuri aka Letitia Wright (@letitiawright) has a special place in our hearts. The Guyanese-born, Britain-raised actress already had our attention from Black Mirror (get into it), but seeing her fight for her brother, her King and country last weekend sealed the deal. In person, her vibe is even more infectious – she’s gracious, she’s grounded, and she’s gifted.Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosAudio engineers: @ChiquitaPaschalMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
2/20/2018 • 34 minutes, 13 seconds
You're In The Presence Of 2 Dope Queens
We¹re baaaaaaack for season 2! Comedy¹s new royalty 2 Dope Queens Phoebe Robinson (@dopequeenpheebs) and Jessica Williams (@msjwilly) anointed us with their Black girl shine. Their four-part HBO special has us in stitches every Friday night. Plus in Tea for the Week, we congratulate Idris Elba and Sabrina Dhowre on their engagement and Yolanda on foreseeing the return of Omarosa.Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProducer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosAudio engineers: @ChiquitaPaschal and @iamtydavisMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
2/15/2018 • 53 minutes, 3 seconds
Bonus Episode: Why Kandi Burruss is as real as they come
Surprise: When Kandi Burruss (@Kandi) said she had a few hours off from her Broadway debut as Mama Morton in 'Chicago,' we said come thru sis! Between how she’s staying snatched, sane and sexually fluid, Kandi sets the record straight on this season’s 'Real Housewives of Atlanta' drama brewing between her and Kim Zolciak. As she said in her ESSENCE cover story — written by our very own Charli Penn (@ManWifeDog) — Kandi’s reputation means everything to her. Listen in as there’s nothing alternative about these facts. Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray (@corimurray); Charli Penn (IG: @CharliPenn/ Twitter: @ManWifeDog); and Yolanda Sangweni (@yolizama)Producer: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosAudio Engineers: Dave Giles (@daveeveryseason) + Aaron Amado (@theoriginalsaedi)Music: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
1/23/2018 • 39 minutes, 32 seconds
Let the Black Panther countdown begin…we already got our tickets!
We see you 2018! There’s already lots to celebrate and we’re just three weeks in. First, we have some news: ESSENCE is now 100-percent Black-owned (again!) and Black girls everywhere are rejoicing. Plus, Black Panther’s release date is close, and we’re shopping for outfits and prepping our snack list. Yolanda’s bringing hot chicken and Cori’s tucking quarter water into her Wakanda-inspired bag. Let's heart it for celebs such as Serena Williams and Will Smith bringing nothing but authenticity in 2018. Last, we’re taking a small break but look for season 2 of Yes, Girl starting again in February.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
1/17/2018 • 29 minutes, 11 seconds
It’s A Black Girl Magic Explosion: Yvonne Orji and ESSENCE Bawse Vanessa K. DeLuca Are Here!
We’re closing out the year celebrating why Black women are so lit (obvi). ESSENCE editor-in-chief Vanessa K. DeLuca (@Vanessa_KDeLuca) shares what it's really like to be at the helm of Black Girl Magic headquarters and recaps the biggest moments for Black women in 2017. Plus, Yvonne Orji (@YvonneOrji) is back, ya’ll! Cori, Yolanda and Charli kicked it with the Insecure star in Miami — on a break from touring on Chris Rock’s Total Blackout tour — and as always, extreme laughter and good vibes followed. Yvonne reveals what “making it” means to her, why she won’t let fame change her and why 2017 has been incredible for her. Happy New Year! Love, Team Yes, Girl!Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProject Manager: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosProduction: Cadence13’s Bob Tabaddor @tabaddorMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
12/28/2017 • 1 hour, 28 minutes, 9 seconds
From Tootie to Regine: Kim Fields gets real about her rise from child star to queen
It’s no surprise why ESSENCE named Kim Fields (@KimVFields) memoir, Blessed Life, “one of the best books of 2017.” In the spirit of bringing the magazine to life, Fields gets cozy in our studio for a conversation about her journey from Harlem to Hollywood, the biggest lesson she learned from that year on reality TV, and confirms what we always hoped – she and the cast of Living Single are that close. Yes, Girl! hosts: Cori Murray @corimurray; Charli Penn @ManWifeDog + @CharliPenn; and Yolanda Sangweni @yolizamaProject Manager: Steven Psyllos @stevenpsyllosProduction: Cadence13’s Bob Tabaddor @tabaddorMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
12/21/2017 • 1 hour, 5 minutes, 15 seconds
Taraji P. Henson joins us for a Jamaican vacation!
“I’m very happy in my personal life.” That’s how Taraji P. Henson (@TherealTaraji) feels right now. Yes, she and her bae are still going strong plus she has so many exciting projects to toast to right now — so we sipped Seagrams Escapes with her in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. She’s producing and starring in her annual holiday variety special, Taraji’s White Hot Holidays, as well as her next film Proud Mary and returning to Empire. However, @ManWifeDog @yolizama and @corimurray discover, Taraji’s true joy comes from the real love surrounding her and her truth: “I’m not stopping until I’ve done it all.” Yes, Girl! hosts: @corimurray @ManWifeDog @yolizamaProject Manager: @stevenpsyllosProduction: Cadence13’s @tabaddorMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
12/14/2017 • 56 minutes, 13 seconds
Symone D. Sanders is breaking 2017 down, for the culture
We know and love political strategist and CNN commentator Symone D. Sanders (@symonedsanders) for bringing her one-of-a-kind brand of unfiltered Black Girl Magic to cable news and Twitter daily to make sure the world stays woke. In case you hadn’t noticed, being a Black woman in 2017 was lit, and Symone helps us rundown the most magical sister moments of all. Plus, we’re celebrating the importance of the #MeToo movement( and applauding the sisters behind it) and talking about holiday gifting dos and don’ts. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
12/7/2017 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 31 seconds
Laughing along with late night’s Robin Thede
“No matter what color you are, stay Black.” That’s how Robin Thede (@RobinThede) ends her new weekly late show, The Rundown with Robin Thede. She’s one of the few Black women in the late night comedy and given today’s political fuckery, Robin’s voice is right on time. With Charli and Cori, Thede breaks down the good, bad, and ugly about being a Black woman in comedy, how to tell if Oprah actually likes you and the art of being funny and real. (For the culture.) Yes, Girl! hosts: @corimurray @ManWifeDog @yolizama Project manager: @stevenpsyllosProduction: Cadence13’s @tabaddorMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11/30/2017 • 57 minutes, 4 seconds
Why Erykah Badu ain’t afraid of nobody
Sisters, how y’all feel? Twenty years ago, Erykah Badu (@fatbellybella) had an epic year: she released Baduizm and Baduizm Live -- which gave us all the ultimate f*&kboy anthem, “Call Tyrone” -- and gave birth to her son, Seven. Badu remembers those moments, plus sings us a hint of what’s coming when she hosts the 30th anniversary of the Soul Train Awards and why she can go from 0 to 100 real quick. Bonus: Badu gives Charli a step-by-step guide on where she can find stillness. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11/23/2017 • 52 minutes, 41 seconds
"She's Gotta Have It" star DeWanda Wise is our #WCE
Can you believe its been 30 years since Spike Lee (@SpikeLee) released his first Spike Lee Joint, She's Gotta Have It?! Now the classic has been reimagined as a Netflix series (@shesgottahaveit) starring fresh face DeWanda Wise (@dewandawise) as the one and only Nola Darling. We got all of the tea about her hot new role, how the series differs from the original and her marriage to Underground’s Alano Miller. (Psst, Alano, we're totally crushin' on DeWanda too.) Yes, Girl! hosts: @corimurray @ManWifeDog @yolizamaProject Manager: @stevenpsyllosProduction: Cadence13’s @tabaddorMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11/16/2017 • 49 minutes, 53 seconds
Issa Bonus Episode: Keke Palmer pours up a cup of tea
And the gag is….actress, singer and songwriter KeKe Palmer (@kekepalmer) thought she was just stopping by to talk about playing April Lewis, a young spy on season 2 of Epix’s drama Berlin Station, but she wound up going IN about her life as a young Black women thriving in Hollywood and what she’s claiming for the future. Palmer shares hilarious stories about filming overseas, a missed encounter with a Berlin bae, and what goes down in her DMs. Plus. she’s keeping it real about what dating is like when you’re single and successful.Yes, Girl!: @corimurray @ManWifeDog @yolizamaProject Manager: @stevenpsyllosProduction: Cadence13’s @tabaddorMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11/14/2017 • 23 minutes, 33 seconds
We kiss and make up with Insecure's Amanda Seales
Comedian and actress Amanda Seales (@amandaseales) loves clapping back (Google her explain White privilege to Caitlyn Jenner.) She even publicly disagreed when ESSENCE reported on her series of Tweets about why more folks need a passport over Jordans. But since we've been fans of Amanda long before Insecure, we all said “Let’s talk about it!” because real sisterhood means discussing your differences. Plus, Amanda dishes on her brilliant "Smart, Funny & Black" traveling comedy show and what happens when you say yes to a rising star in Hollywood. Yes, Girl team is @corimurray @ManWifeDog @yolizama + @stevenpsyllosProduction: Cadence13’s @tabaddorMusic: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11/9/2017 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 8 seconds
Jennifer Hudson gives a word on the art of living your truth!
J-HUD is in the house! The Voice’s newest coach comes through with heart-to-heart wisdom on self love, standing in your truth and doing you, boo! The R&B singer and Academy-award winning actress reveals why she loves her new gig, what makes her feel at home and the story behind a very special ring. Plus, we weigh on Cardi B’s surprise engagement and Wendy Williams fainting on air. Girl!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11/2/2017 • 50 minutes, 45 seconds
Ayesha Curry’s recipe for dream chasing, plus Latham Thomas gives get-your-glow lessons
Bust out the sage because this week is all about self care and growth. First up: chef, TV personality, author and NBA wife and mom Ayesha Curry (@ayeshacurry) reveals how following her heart and chasing her culinary dreams lead her to become one of the newest Cover Girls and helped to bring her new line of cookware to a store near you. Next, celebrity wellness lifestyle guru and doula Latham Thomas (@glowmaven) helps upgrade your inner glow. The Glow Maven talks about the secrets inside her new book Own Your Glow: A Soulful Guide for Luminous Living and Crowning the Queen Within shares how to own your power in mind, body and spirit. Plus, Yolanda gets her first weave — and she has questions! — and, Charli’s talking about her second honeymoon in Hawaii! Yes, Girl! hosts: @corimurray @manwifedog @yolizamaProduction: Cadence13Music: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
10/26/2017 • 1 hour, 13 minutes, 57 seconds
Gabrielle Union on Who Hates Her the Most and Why We Love Her for It (LIVE)
Just when we thought we knew everything about Gabrielle Union (@itsgabrielleu) — she’s had nine ESSENCE covers — we fell more in love after reading her new memoir, "We’re Going to Need More Wine." Gabby joins us for a live audience recording where she pulls back the curtain on her life. She’s unapologetic about social media shaming of sexual assault victims, why she’s still healing from her own rape and that it’s okay hubby Dwyane Wade reads her book (but not her dad). Yes, Girl! hosts: @corimurray @manwifedog @yolizamaProduction: Cadence13Music: Gold Standard Creative @gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
10/19/2017 • 55 minutes, 26 seconds
Demetria McKinney on playing her idol Whitney Houston
The world caught another glimpse of the former reality star Demetria McKinney when she played Whitney Houston in TV One's "Bobbi Kristina," the controversial biopic about Bobbi Kristina Brown - the only child of Houston and singer Bobby Brown. McKinney talks about life after Real Housewives of Atlanta, balancing motherhood with fame and why music is her first love. Plus, Yolanda's back from South Africa, Cori turns a work trip into a mini vacation and Charli debates the true meaning of glamping. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
10/12/2017 • 50 minutes, 26 seconds
Tamar Braxton gets real, plus two queens from Queen Sugar are here!
Singer and reality TV star Tamar Braxton came to town honey, and you know she came to spill the tea! Braxton discusses her new album "Bluebird of Happiness," sets the record straight on whether it's really her last, and reveals how motherhood truly changed her. Plus, "Queen Sugar" stars Rutina Wesley and Dawn-Lyen Gardner open up about Black Girl Magic on set and being Black women in Hollywood. The ladies also open up about their beloved Juilliard classmate Nelsan Ellis' tragic and sudden passing and the legacy he has left behind. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
10/5/2017 • 56 minutes, 41 seconds
Empire’s Jussie Smollett is sooo lit, plus creator Lee Daniels has another show up his sleeve and it’s juicy
It’s an #EMPIRE lovefest! Jamal Lyons aka friend in our heads, actor and activist JUSSIE SMOLLETT stops by to discuss Twitter clap backs, life after being an ESSENCE cover cutie and LOTS more! Plus, Hollywood juggernaut and Empire creator LEE DANIELS joins us to discuss casting and working with the most iconic Black actresses in Hollywood, making TV magic and loving Black women's stories.Produced by Bob Tabaddor at Cadence 13Music by Gold Standard Creative (@gscdotnyc), Aaron Amado (@theoriginalsaedi) and Dave Giles (@daveeveryseason)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
9/28/2017 • 1 hour, 19 minutes, 7 seconds
Kim Kimble's Prayer for Your Edges
When A-Lister's such as Beyoncé and Mary J. Blige need a game changing look, celebrity hairstylist Kim Kimble swoops in with bundles of color and creativity that goes from the stage to screen. Minutes before her flight back to Los Angeles -- where Kimble films her hit reality show, WeTV's L.A. Hair -- she shared why working on Beyoncé's Lemonade was a dream, how she made it from Chicago to Hollywood and that she never leaves home without a bottle of blessed oil for folk's edges. Amen. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
9/21/2017 • 47 minutes, 22 seconds
Celebrity hair stylist Ursula Stephen, plus a champagne fueled Insecure recap
Known for giving Rihanna her signature bob and pixie, celebrity hair stylist and salon owner Ursula Stephen dropped by Yes, Girl and gave us a peek into her fab life during New York’s Fashion Week. Plus Buzzfeed’s entertainment reporter Sylvia Obell helps us pop a bottle as we recap Insecure’s season two finale. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
9/14/2017 • 54 minutes, 55 seconds
The Real's Loni Love
During our LA trip, comedienne and co-host of hit daytime talk show The Real Loni Love sat down with Cori and Yolanda to chat about her journey from corporate America to comedy. Plus, the ladies react to Issa and Lawrence’s fight on Insecure and the season finale of Power. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
9/7/2017 • 53 minutes, 47 seconds
Mary J. Blige, Jada Pinkett Smith, Queen Latifah & Friends Get Real About Pushing Through
At ESSENCE Festival 2017, Tamron Hall moderated a juicy, once in a lifetime conversation between Mary J.Blige, Queen Latifah, Jada Pinkett-Smith, Monica, Niecy Nash, Mudbound director Dee Rees and Planned Parenthood Director Kristi Henderson. The women got real about past heartbreak, overcoming personal setbacks and the resiliency of Black women. Now this is what we call Black Girl Magic!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
8/31/2017 • 42 minutes, 26 seconds
Tichina Arnold and Love Talk with Flex & Shanice
It’s a TBT special when we talk to Tichina Arnold, who’s been dispensing comic relief on our small screens since Martin, and celebrity couple Flex and Shanice. These 90s faves are as hot as ever: Tichina’s pulling double duty in Starz’s Survivor’s Remorse and VH1’s Daytime Divas andFlex and Shanice – who’s celebrating the 20th anniversary of “I Love Your Smile” – prove why Black love is always supreme See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
8/24/2017 • 1 hour, 14 minutes, 16 seconds
Marlon Wayans and Essence Atkins
Marlon Wayans has been busy. His new Netflix comedy Naked is now streaming and he stars alongside NBC’s new Black family sitcom Marlon with his dear friend, actress Essence Atkins. On the show the actors play a divorced couple who actually gets along. First up, Marlon stops by to discuss fatherhood, positive Black images on screen and why it was so important for him to make this show and later Essence opens up about her longtime bond with Marlon, life after divorce and more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
8/17/2017 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 46 seconds
Tyra Banks and 'Bachelorette' Rachel Lindsay
The stars of two of TVs biggest reality shows join the Yes, Girl! sister-circle. First, television producer, businesswoman, actress, and former model (receipts!) Tyra Banks opens up to Cori and Yolanda about exploring new career opportunities, life with her son York, motherhood and more. After that, TV’s first Black Bachelorette Rachel Lindsay stops by with her new fiancé, Bryan Abasolo, to chat with Charli about her newfound fame, wedding plans and why she felt she made the right choice.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
8/10/2017 • 41 minutes, 37 seconds
Badass Bozoma Saint John
The Yes Girl! hosts dig into the latest episode of Insecure, plus they’re talking confidence and career challenges with Uber’s new Chief Brand Officer Bozoma Saint John, whose stellar track record with major brands like Apple Music and Pepsi speaks for itself. Her bold confidence, impressive resume and unique relatabilty are just some of the topics we dig into. Get ready to catch those gems!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
8/3/2017 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 53 seconds
Halle Berry
Last spring, Halle Berry damn near broke the internet by posting a pic of herself frolicking in a field of flowers back lit only by the sun. At 50, yes, she's gorgeous as ever but there's so much more to this Oscar winner. After talking with her during Essence Festival in New Orleans, we discovered Halle's hilarious and humbled, and like the determined mom she plays in Kidnap, she's fiercely protective of her two kids off screen. Take a listen. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
7/27/2017 • 33 minutes, 7 seconds
Regina Hall (Girls Trip)
Everyone’s talking about new movie Girls Trip, so obvi we’re chatting with one of the film’s stars, actress Regina Hall. Regina was all about the girl talk, and we covered all of our fave topics — including why we love our girlfriends, caring for our edges and finding puppy love. Listen, and she’ll definitely be your newest friend in your head.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
7/20/2017 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 15 seconds
Angela Rye (#Woke100) and Candice Benbow (4:43 essayist)
Politico and lawyer Angela Rye was featured on the cover of Essence's Woke 100 issue for her smart and peppered analysis of issues affecting marginalized communities. She tells Yolanda and Cori about her start in politics, how to stay woke and a preview of her new podcast On 1 with A. Rye. Ladies, can we talk about the trail of heartbreak left behind from a breakup you never saw coming? Did you give too much? Did he give too little? Candice Benbow, the author of 4:43, the viral internet response to JAY-Z's 4:44, sits down to discuss her emotional piece, social media's response and how women heal after a love lost. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
7/13/2017 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 52 seconds
Iyanla Vanzant (Live at Essence Festival)
A year ago, Iyanla Vanzant was a scheduled keynote speaker at Essence Festival. Then the unthinkable happened days before her appearance: she was fighting for her life due to a medical emergency. On July 1, Iyanla made a triumphant return to the daytime stage as an empowerment speaker – shouting hallelujah as she walked through the audience before delivering a stirring testimony about surviving, letting go and shining from within. As a Yes, Girl! treat, we’re sharing her full speech here; let Iyanla words feed your spirit. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
7/6/2017 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 11 seconds
Courtney A. Kemp (Power creator and executive producer) and The Matchmaking Duo
Long before Courtney A. Kemp created one of TV’s most addictive series, Power, she was a lowly magazine writer with much bigger aspirations than typing up celebrity Q&As. But when she had an opportunity to write about her own life coupled with the death of her father, the experience made starting her scriptwriting career a priority. As Power, which she created and executive produces, enters its fourth season, Kemp shares what motivates her, what’s next for her leading man Ghost and how she works alongside co-executive producer Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson. The Matchmaking Duo returns to explain exactly what happens when you hire a professional matchmaker and how they hold your hand on the road to love.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
6/29/2017 • 1 hour, 12 minutes, 38 seconds
June Ambrose #RockMom
Stylist to the stars June Ambrose took time out of her crammed Hollywood schedule and shared how she juggles red carpets, motherhood, and marriage while looking flawless and stress free. Through her Instalife, we know June’s a rock mom who’s been shaping the culture for two plus decades. From styling hip hop icons Jay Z, Missy Elliott and Diddy to creating visionary magazine covers and videos to reporting on who’s hot and what’s not at every hot ticket in around the world.
But here she gives the real keys to having a beautiful life.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
6/22/2017 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 13 seconds
Janet Mock (Surpassing Certainty: What My Twenties Taught Me)
We’re talking life and love lessons learned from our 20s with journalist, writer, New York Times-bestselling author and transgender rights activist Janet Mock who shares hilariously real stories from her second memoir —Surpassing Certainty: What My Twenties Taught Me. The tea is served!
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
6/15/2017 • 1 hour, 43 seconds
Tiffany Haddish and Amber Stevens West (The Carmichael Show) and #WokeBaes Greg and Helanah
On a day off from taping their hilarious sitcom, The Carmichael Show's Tiffany Haddish and Amber Stevens West walks us through their respective lives before and after the hit show. Not to be missed: Tiffany, who's starring in this summer's Girls Trip, sharing how she won over Will and Jada Pinkett Smith with a Groupon swamp tour.
How important is it to be intentional in choosing a romantic partner who shares your spiritual beliefs and life passions? Former ESSENCE Bachelor Greg Corbin and his girlfriend Helanah top by to share their love story and discuss the power of intentional love. #WokeBaes
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
6/8/2017 • 1 hour, 42 minutes, 11 seconds
Charlamagne Tha God (LIVE)
Love him or hate him, Charlamagne Tha God—radio’s favorite agitator—sits in the hot seat for Yes, Girl’s first live recording at ESSENCE’s New York City offices. He answers audience’s burning questions about “disrespecking” Birdman, loving Black women (“I don’t hate Black women") and sharing his surprisingly affirming life lessons from his book Black Privilege: Opportunity Comes to Those Who Create It.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
6/1/2017 • 1 hour, 5 minutes, 28 seconds
Mary J. Blige
Fresh off the release of her latest album, "Strength of a Woman," Mary J. Blige checks in with Charli and Yolanda about life after divorce, finding real love again, and what fans can expect from her sure-to-be epic performance alongside Chaka Khan, Jazmine Sullivan and Monica at the 2017 Essence Festival.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
5/25/2017 • 36 minutes, 34 seconds
Lena Waithe (Master of None) and Gabby & Andrew Wilkes
Long before producer-turned-actress Lena Waithe mined her personal coming out story for Master of None’s best episode ever (“Thanksgiving”), she stopped by Yes, Girl studios and chatted about growing up in the Chi, breaking into Hollywood and falling in love with the girl of her dreams.
Publicist Gabby Cudjoe Wilkes and her husband, pastor Andrew Wilkes, are young, married and ministering other 20 and 30-something couples on how to blend faith and love. Find out their secrets to "Christian coupling" and faith-based Love!
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
5/18/2017 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 45 seconds
Luvvie Ajayi & Abiola Abrams
Luvvie Ajayi is not only one of ESSENCE’s 100 Woke Women and featured on the May 2017 cover, she’s a New York Times bestselling author (I’m Judging You: The Do-Better Manual) and she’s developing a show with Shonda Rhimes. Her life right now: WINNING. Luuvie chats with Yolanda and Cori about her blogger beginnings, hooking up with Hollywood go-getters and why even when she’s judged, she’s gracious.
Plus, ESSENCE's resident intimacy expert, Abiola Abrams, is in the house to answer reader's sex questions and offer advice for some of those "sticky" situations that occur between lovers. She's keeping it all the way real!
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
5/11/2017 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 34 seconds
Bill Bellamy and Oneika the Traveller
After the last 100 days with Trump, we need a good laugh. Thankfully, comic and actor Bill Bellamy (@billbellamy) gives us the levity our spirits craved as he tells Cori and Yolanda how he coined the term “booty call.” (fact.)
Is it possible to meet a keeper while traveling the world? Travel blogger, Oneika the Traveler found her husband doing just that. We're talking international dating do's and dont's and how to find your happy ending overseas.
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5/4/2017 • 1 hour, 10 minutes, 54 seconds
Meagan Good and Devon Franklin
Meagan Good and DeVon Franklin are relationship goals for real.
We chat with the power couple about how they build each other up by maintaining their faith and love in Hollywood, plus gems from their book "The Wait: A Powerful Practice for Finding the Love of Your Life and the Life You Love."
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4/27/2017 • 51 minutes, 9 seconds
Tameka "Tiny" Harris and Daughter Zonnique Open Up
Tameka "Tiny" Harris sets the record straight on how she really felt when T.I. called their marriage "a distraction," their impending divorce and what's next for her (hint: Xscape is reuniting).
Plus, we chat with Tiny's daughter Zonnique about the inspiration for debut EP, Love Jones, and how she fell in love with her NFL star boyfriend Damian Swann
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4/20/2017 • 54 minutes, 39 seconds
Yvonne Orji (Insecure) and Kel Mitchell & Asia Lee (Game Shakers)
Insecure’s breakout star Yvonne Orji takes us on her bumpy journey to Hollywood, which includes a one way bus ticket to NYC (with no place to stay) to awkwardly hiding in HBO’s lobby after her audition (in a blonde wig no less). Afterwards, Nickelodeon star Kel Mitchell and his wife Asia Lee share their love story and baby joy!
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4/13/2017 • 1 hour, 13 minutes, 34 seconds
Danai Gurira (The Walking Dead) and Demetria Lucas D'oyley (A Belle in Brooklyn)
The Walking Dead's Danai Gurira is a super busy woman. Between writing stage plays, filming this season's TWD and going off to start Black Panther, she came by our studio for a chat about everything good in her life and although it was a few months ago, we're still inspired.
The Internet’s go-to girl for all relationship and life advice, Demetria Lucas D’Oyley, stops by to set the record straight on whether or not Black women need as much help finding love as the news headlines suggest. So, what is the current state of Black love? D’Oyley breaks it down!
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4/6/2017 • 1 hour, 25 minutes, 17 seconds
Angie Nwandu (The Shade Room) and Prentice & Tasha Penny
The Shade Room is one our guiltiest pleasures (The New York Times calls it "The Black TMZ") and on this week's episode of Yes, Girl! we talk with its founder Angie Nwandu, who's rag to riches story will have you in tears.
Plus, we’re now officially obsessed with Insecure show-runner Prentice Penny and wife Tasha Penny’s sweet (yet unbelievably real) “how we met” story. The college sweethearts turned power couple know the secret to balancing success and love in Hollywood. Meet your new couple crush.
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3/30/2017 • 1 hour, 13 minutes, 29 seconds
Sanaa Lathan & Gina Prince-Bythewood (Shots Fired) and The Matchmaking Duo
Besties Sanaa Lathan and Gina Prince-Bythewood share the magic inside their real-life bond in Hollywood and discuss their new show, Shots Fired.
Plus, professional matchmakers The Matchmaking Duo reveal why professional Black women really have so much trouble finding love. (Sips, tea!)
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Cori Murray and Yolanda Sangweni laugh it up with Niecy Nash, who we’ve adored since her days on Reno 911!, Clean House and Soul Man. Niecy tells us about her upcoming dramedy Claws, befriending Karrueche Tran, laughing through grief and meeting her husband at a party (yes, there’s love in the club).
After that, Charli Penn and Beyoncé’s dance captain Ashley Everett talk about how Ashley’s man put a ring on it with a surprise engagement on The Formation Tour.
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3/16/2017 • 51 minutes, 42 seconds
Uzo Aduba / Remy Ma & Papoose
Long before actress and activist Uzo Aduba was a two time Emmy award winning star of Orange is the New Black, she was a doubtful young woman ready to call quits on a career in Hollywood. A fateful phone call from her agent turned her work life around. However, looking back on her life in Yes, Girl's premiere episode, Uzo shares that the constant encouragement from her family - Nigerian immigrants - and teachers kept her hopeful on her best and worst days navigating her career—including a run-in with the police. PLUS, reality TV’s most loyal married couple, Love and Hip Hop New York Stars
Remy Ma and Papoose open up like never before and reveal how they fostered their unbreakable bond with prison bars between them, what it feels like to be #BlackLove goals for millions and what really goes down in the Mackie home.
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3/9/2017 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 25 seconds
Teaser Episode
"Yes, Girl!" launches March 9th!
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