Pennie For Your Thoughts Podcast

Pennie Anassi
  • 5.0 (42)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Weekly

A nonjudgmental space where psychology, pop culture, & self meet. Join Pennie Anassi & her special guest co-hosts as they bridge the gap between cool and conscious through scripted monologues and conversations. The show will take a humanistic & empathetic approach towards the discussion of mental health, hip hop, pop culture, addictions, relationships, family, spirituality, and life itself. Pennie is a first generation Kenyan-American media personality and lifestyle & entertainment writer thriving in New York City. She ditched her white lab coat and dropped out of her organic chemistry class to pick up a microphone and pursue a career in media and entertainment.

  1. May 21

    Let's Start Gatekeeping Again

    We talk about gatekeeping like it’s always a bad thing, but maybe everything was not meant to be shared, linked, explained, and turned into a template. In this episode of For Your Thoughts, I’m talking about Law Roach, gatekeeping, taste, discovery, collective consciousness, influencer culture, and why life feels so flat when everything is so easy to access. We get into why we keep confusing billboards for moodboards, how the internet turns people into templates and walking sound bites, and what happens when the collective consciousness starts shaping what we want, what we believe, how we date, how we heal, and how we see ourselves. Some things need to be lived. Some things need to be discovered. Some things need to stay yours long enough for you to actually become yourself.

  2. Apr 9

    Isolation Isn’t Self Care: What It’s Doing To Your Brain & How To Fix

    I'm breaking down how "protecting my peace" almost broke my brain. I get into the neuroscience behind what happens when you isolate for too long, the signs you might not even recognize, and how to rebuild those neural pathways. Plus a life update, a shoutout to 2 Chainz and his new book "The Voices in My Head is God," and the mindful sudoku book that's been saving my mornings. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: "The Voices in My Head is God" by 2 Chainz: https://amzn.to/4tBBTsS Mindful Sudoku by Megan Kim: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP987KjcqG3H... Mental health resources for creatives:www.foryourthoughts.org CONNECT: Instagram: @penniepeace Podcast IG: @foryourthoughtspod TikTok: @penniepeace Email: pennie.anassi@gmail.com Send me your pen pal letters! I don't know everything but I'll give you the best advice from what I do know. If you need mental health resources, visit www.foryourthoughts.org. I'm building something specifically for creatives, professionals, and multihyphenates, connecting you with therapists who are culturally competent and actually get what we have going on.

  3. 11/25/2025

    The Unconventional Ways to Fight Seasonal Depression That No One Talks About

    Unconventional Ways to Fight Seasonal Depression That No One Talks About Seasonal depression hits different — especially when life is already lifing. In this episode, I’m breaking down the unconventional things that actually helped me get through the heaviness this time around. Not the generic “drink water and go outside” advice — real shifts, real tools, real practices people don’t normally talk about. I open up about• why this season can feel so overwhelming• the emotional and physical symptoms that sneak up on us• how overstimulation, burnout, and isolation make it worse• what actually helped me feel grounded again• the mindset shifts that got me out of the fog• the small daily rituals that made a huge difference• how to reconnect with yourself when you feel disconnected from everything• ways to build structure when your brain doesn’t want any This episode isn’t about perfection or forcing yourself to “be positive.” It’s about finding relief, softness, and small ways to feel like yourself again — especially on the days when you don’t. If you’re moving through seasonal depression right now, I hope this helps you feel seen, supported, and not alone.

  4. 10/23/2025

    The TRUTH About Loving Someone Through Mental Illness (Inspired by Gucci Mane & Keyshia Ka’Oir’s Story)

    Gucci Mane’s new book Episodes revealed something most of us didn’t know — his journey living with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. His story, and the way his wife Keyshia Ka’Oir stood beside him, opened up deeper questions about what it means to love and support someone who’s struggling with their mental health. In this episode, Pennie breaks down the difference between mania, psychosis, and schizophrenia, shares her personal experiences supporting loved ones through these disorders, and offers insight into how to show up with empathy, care, and boundaries. This isn’t just for caregivers — it’s for friends, partners, and anyone who wants to better understand how to walk alongside someone on their healing journey. What you’ll hear: Understanding the difference between mania, psychosis, and schizophrenia What Gucci and Keyshia’s story reveals about grace and support How to hold space without losing yourself The truth about “handlers” and mental health misconceptions online Why boundaries are an act of love, not rejection How to balance compassion with care for your own mental health Key Quote: “People living with mental illness are not burdens — they’re humans doing their best with what their mind is giving them that day.” Resources Mentioned: ForYourThoughts.org Therapy for Black Men Boris L. Henson Foundation NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness)

  5. 10/08/2025

    EP 81: CultureCon, Confidence & Comparison | How to Stop Feeling Small in Big Rooms

    This week, Pennie unpacks the real conversation behind all the Culture Con discourse — the one that has less to do with influencers and everything to do with how we feel about ourselves. She opens up about why she didn’t attend for years, what finally made her go, and what she learned about confidence, comparison, and walking in rooms like she already belongs there. From social anxiety to the pressure of online visibility, Pennie shares her personal journey and offers tangible, psychology-backed tools to help you feel grounded, confident, and connected — even in spaces that once made you shrink In This Episode: Why so many people left Culture Con feeling disconnected How comparison culture and social media distort our self-worth Pennie’s story of finally attending after years of hesitation What it means to build confidence through action, not validation Practical ways to manage social anxiety and regulate your energy The importance of networking across, not up Highlights from Vic Mensa and 2 Chainz’s panels How to remember that everything you’re looking for already exists within you “Everything you’re searching for in those rooms — confidence, belonging, connection — already exists within you. You just have to know it, practice it, affirm it, and walk in it.” - Pennie Anassi Mentioned: Vic Mensa — on quitting drugs and redefining success 2 Chainz — on being a psych major and bridging intellect with artistry Imani Ellis & Culture Con NYC — a creative homecoming and hub for Black excellence IG: @penniepeace TikTok: @penniepeaceful YT: @peacepennie

  6. 09/23/2025

    EP 80: Art, Identity, & Living with Bipolar | Inside COVL's Mind

    In this episode, we dive into the vibrant world of COVL, a multidisciplinary artist who shares her journey of living with bipolar disorder and how it influences her art. We explore her creative process, the impact of her Puerto Rican heritage, and her mission to normalize mental health conversations through her work. Takeaways: COVL's art is deeply influenced by her Puerto Rican heritage and personal experiences. Living with bipolar disorder has shaped COVL's creative journey and artistic expression. COVL emphasizes the importance of normalizing mental health conversations. Her work is characterized by vibrant colors and childlike themes. COVL's first solo show, 'Homesick,' was a pivotal moment in her career. She uses art to explore and express her identity and mental health. COVL's creative process is intuitive and often subconscious. She values the support of her community and family in her artistic endeavors. COVL's work aims to evoke emotions and connect with viewers on a personal level. Her future goals include creating an artist residency in Puerto Rico.

  7. 09/17/2025

    EP 79: Nick Cannon Opens Up About Narcissism + A New Therapist Directory for Creatives

    After a year away, I’m back on the mic. In this episode, I dive into Nick Cannon’s recent confession about being diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder and break down what narcissism really means versus simply feeling “special.” I also catch you up on life updates, introduce the therapist directory I’ve been building, and talk about The Great Lock-In. My Therapist Directory: www.foryourthoughts.org

  8. 09/19/2024

    The Truth About Quitting Your 9-5 For Content Creation: Nimilolu's Journey & Jackie Aina's Support

    In this episode, our host sits down with Nimi Lolu to explore her inspiring journey from a conventional engineering career to becoming a successful content creator. They delve into the transformative challenges and triumphs she encountered along the way, with a particular focus on mental health, identity, and cultural representation. Cultural Roots and Identity: Nimi’s reflections on her Kenyan heritage and her life in America after moving from Nigeria at age eight. The cultural and identity struggles she faced, and how these shaped her perspective. Corporate Disillusionment: Experiences of feeling undervalued as a woman in traditional corporate environments. The decision to leave engineering in pursuit of a more fulfilling career in content creation. Finding Fulfillment Online: Contrast between online acceptance and past experiences of bullying. The role of self-confidence and personal expression, particularly through fashion and beauty, in finding personal happiness. Mental Health and Relationships: Nimi’s advocacy for mental health awareness and the importance of therapy. The positive influence of a supportive partner in overcoming depression and content creation challenges. Resilience in Content Creation: The impact of her candid video on privilege and comparison, and its resonance with viewers. Challenges faced by black women in gaining visibility and success. Importance of persistence, authenticity, and reassessment of strategies. Mindful Consumption and Personal Values: Promotion of the initiative “use what you have at home,” emphasizing mindful consumption. Aligning product promotions with personal values for authenticity. Nature and Spirituality: The restorative benefits of connecting with nature and engaging in outdoor activities. The practice of spiritual fasting, especially during significant times like Easter. Takeaway Messages: Prioritize personal happiness and self-confidence over societal expectations. Value emotional understanding and address mental health issues through therapy. Embrace authenticity and resilience in all pursuits. Practice mindful consumption and stay true to personal values. Connect with nature for mental and spiritual rejuvenation. Call to Action: Reflect on your own career and personal journey. Are there areas where you feel undervalued or unfulfilled? Consider the importance of mental health and seek support if needed. Engage with nature and find small ways to connect with the outdoors. Explore mindful consumption habits and make a conscious effort to use what you have at home. Connect with Nimilolu: Follow Nimi on her social media platforms for more insights and inspiration on fashion, beauty, and personal growth. Tune in to hear more about Nimilolu’s incredible journey and the valuable lessons she shares from her experiences.

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5
out of 5
42 Ratings

About

A nonjudgmental space where psychology, pop culture, & self meet. Join Pennie Anassi & her special guest co-hosts as they bridge the gap between cool and conscious through scripted monologues and conversations. The show will take a humanistic & empathetic approach towards the discussion of mental health, hip hop, pop culture, addictions, relationships, family, spirituality, and life itself. Pennie is a first generation Kenyan-American media personality and lifestyle & entertainment writer thriving in New York City. She ditched her white lab coat and dropped out of her organic chemistry class to pick up a microphone and pursue a career in media and entertainment.

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