INvisible Women Podcast

Melody Simmons- Hudson & Monica Simmons
  • 5.0 (3)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Hosted by sisters Melody and Monica, explores the authentic stories and experiences of Black women navigating the realms of leadership, corporate America, entrepreneurship, and creative industries. As Corporate America queens, authors, founders, and visionaries, Melody and Monica share their journeys, highlight the barriers they face, and celebrate the resilience and cultural contributions of Black women. Each episode aims to inspire, educate, and empower listeners to THRIVE! Subscribe to our YouTube channel for full podcast videos: https://www.youtube.com/@hnttproductions

  1. Making Space to Exhale: Rest, Resistance & Reclaiming Power with Lisa Hurley

    04/30/2025

    Making Space to Exhale: Rest, Resistance & Reclaiming Power with Lisa Hurley

    In this empowering episode of the INvisible Women Podcast, host Melody and Monica sits down with award-winning writer, activist, and creator of The Great Exhale, Lisa Hurley. As we close out Autism Awareness Month, Lisa opens up about her lived experience as a Black autistic woman, the daily exhaustion of navigating professional spaces not built for her, and why she created digital sanctuaries where Black women can finally breathe. Lisa is creating a movement where Black women are unapologetically taking off the “Strong Black Woman” capes and stepping boldly into a new era—the Soft Life Era—one rooted in rest, restoration, and radical self-honoring. Lisa’s upcoming book, Space to Exhale: A Handbook for Curating a Soft, Centered, Serene Life, is more than a wellness guide—it’s a lifeline for those tired of hustle culture, unspoken expectations, and masking exhaustion behind competence. In this episode, she speaks truth to the pressure Black women face to “perform strength” while rarely receiving support in return. ✨ This episode is for you if you’ve ever felt: Tired of doing it all while being seen as “too much” or “not enough” Overstimulated by environments that ignore your needs Pressured to smile through pain or prove your struggle to be believed Exhausted from being strong when what you really need is rest We talk rest as resistance, softness as survival, and why Lisa believes Black women deserve to exhale—without apology. 🎧 Tune in now and be part of the conversation.📘 Pre-order Space to Exhale at spacetoexhalebook.com

    42 min
  2. Heart to Heart: Black Women, Healing, and the Fight for Our Lives w/LaQuenta Jacobs

    03/26/2025

    Heart to Heart: Black Women, Healing, and the Fight for Our Lives w/LaQuenta Jacobs

    In this powerful episode of INvisible Women, hosts Monica and Melody sit down with LaQuenta Jacobs—executive leader, inclusion strategist, and heart health survivor—for a deeply personal and urgent conversation on the intersections of Black womanhood, wellness, and the fight for visibility in healthcare. LaQuenta shares her extraordinary journey from heart failure to healing, walking us through the life-altering diagnosis that changed her forever. Through vulnerability and clarity, she unpacks how faith, resilience, and community care carried her through one of the most difficult chapters of her life. Together, we explore the often-ignored epidemic of heart disease among Black women, the impact of systemic medical bias, and the dangerous myth of the "strong Black woman" that keeps so many of us suffering in silence. LaQuenta challenges us to redefine self-care—not as indulgence, but as a radical act of survival and self-love. This episode doesn’t just speak to the heart—it speaks for it. LaQuenta leaves listeners with a powerful reminder: “You are worthy of rest. You are worthy of joy. And you are worthy of abundance and not just survival. You DESERVE it!!!” Bold, healing, and deeply necessary—this episode is a must-listen for anyone committed to health equity, advocacy, and honoring the lives of Black women. 🎧 Tune in now and be part of the conversation.

    53 min
  3. The Policy Goddess: Erica Shoemate on AI, Power & Purpose in Tech

    02/22/2025

    The Policy Goddess: Erica Shoemate on AI, Power & Purpose in Tech

    In this powerful episode of Invisible Women, hosts Monica and Melody sit down with Erica Shoemate—The Policy Goddess—for a deep dive into AI, national security, and the realities of being a Black woman in leadership. From her beginnings in inner-city Memphis to shaping policies in tech and cybersecurity, Erica shares the resilience, strategy, and purpose that fuel her work. This conversation unpacks the challenges of navigating predominantly white spaces, the mental toll of professional expectations, and the double-edged sword of loyalty for Black women in the workplace. Erica also explores the transformative potential of AI—how it can amplify marginalized voices if built with cultural awareness and accountability at its core. With tech evolving at breakneck speed, Erica asks the tough questions: Who controls innovation? How do we hold the industry accountable? And how can we ensure technology serves the people, not just profit? Bold, urgent, and unapologetic—this episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in diversity, equity, and the future of tech. 🎧 Tune in now and be part of the conversation.

    41 min
  4. Season 3 Opener: Reclaiming Our Power – A New Year, A Renewed Vision

    02/21/2025

    Season 3 Opener: Reclaiming Our Power – A New Year, A Renewed Vision

    Welcome to a brand-new season of the Invisible Women Podcast! Hosts Melody and Monica are back, reintroducing the mission, purpose, and power behind this platform. As Black women navigating leadership, entrepreneurship, and corporate spaces, they reflect on their personal and professional journeys—why they started this podcast, how it has evolved, and why the mission of celebrating and empowering Black women is more relevant than ever in 2025. This episode sets the tone for the season, reaffirming their message:"We are resilient. We are culture. We are visible and valued!" What to Expect in This Episode: The Journey So Far – Melody and Monica share the inspiration behind Invisible Women and how their experiences continue to shape the podcast. The Power of Visibility – A deep dive into what it truly means for Black women to be seen, heard, and valued in today’s world. Lessons from 2024 – Personal reflections on growth, challenges, and the importance of reclaiming time, confidence, and purpose. What’s Ahead in 2025 – Bold conversations, game-changing guests, and topics that matter—mental health, leadership, entrepreneurship, and breaking barriers. A Call to Action – This year is about reclaiming power. Melody and Monica encourage listeners to set their own intentions for 2025, step into their greatness, and remember that they are not alone on this journey. This season is all about elevation, empowerment, and making sure that Black women are never invisible. 🎧 Tune in now! Let’s reclaim our time, confidence, and power—together.

    11 min
  5. "Nobody's free until everybody's free." Fannie Lou Hamer

    08/23/2024

    "Nobody's free until everybody's free." Fannie Lou Hamer

    Summary In this episode, host, Melody and Monica discuss the excitement and hope surrounding Kamala Harris's nomination as the Democratic vice presidential candidate. They highlight the importance of representation and the need for black women to be seen in leadership roles. They also address the challenges and criticisms that Kamala Harris faces, including racism and sexism. The conversation emphasizes the significance of using one's voice and vote to support candidates who align with their values and will work towards positive change. Takeaways - Representation matters, and Kamala Harris's nomination as the Democratic vice presidential candidate is a significant step towards normalizing black women in leadership roles. - Black women face unique challenges, including racism and sexism, and it is important to support and uplift them in their pursuit of political office. - It is crucial to do thorough research and fact-checking to combat misinformation and make informed decisions when voting. - Black women's issues, such as equal pay and housing insecurity, need to be addressed and improved upon. - Using one's voice and vote is essential in advocating for change and holding elected officials accountable. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for full podcast videos @ HNTT PRODUCTIONS! Subscribe to our podcast to receive alerts as we drop new episodes on Spotify and Apple podcasts! Please rate our podcast and leave us a review!

    28 min
  6. The Power of Political Activism w/Future Coalition Director, Corryn G. Freeman

    04/23/2024

    The Power of Political Activism w/Future Coalition Director, Corryn G. Freeman

    Summary In this episode of the Invisible Women podcast, host Monica and Melody interview Corryn G. Freeman, the executive director of Future Coalition. They discuss the work of Future Coalition in supporting and empowering young change makers and change agents. They provide financial support through grants and offer fiscal sponsorship to organizations. They also discuss the importance of youth leadership in social change and the need for strong movements led by young people. The conversation also touches on the 2024 civic engagement strategy of Future Coalition, the impact of Governor Ron DeSantis on education in Florida, and Corryn's background in political science and organizing. In this conversation, Corryn G. Freeman discusses the importance of political engagement and activism, particularly for young people. She emphasizes the need for individuals to find their passion and join communities that share their interests. Corryn also highlights the significance of local elections and encourages listeners to research candidates and vote down the ticket. Additionally, she shares her work with the Black Violin Foundation, which aims to provide access to classical arts education for BIPOC youth. Takeaways -Future Coalition provides financial support and resources to young change makers and change agents. -Youth leadership is crucial in driving social change and creating strong movements. -The 2024 civic engagement strategy of Future Coalition focuses on supporting school board candidates and down ballot races. -Governor Ron DeSantis has implemented policies that negatively impact education in Florida. -Corryn G. Freeman has a background in political science and organizing, and her passion for social change was influenced by her upbringing. Find your passion and join communities that share your interests -Research candidates and vote down the ticket in local elections -Advocate for access to classical arts education for BIPOC youth -Engage in political activism to create positive change https://futurecoalition.org/about/ Subscribe to our YouTube channel for full podcast videos @ HNTT PRODUCTIONS! Subscribe to our podcast to receive alerts as we drop new episodes on Spotify and Apple podcasts! Please rate our podcast and leave us a review!

    46 min
  7. Girl Chat w/ Z Singleton, Hot Topics from a Black Woman's Lens!

    04/19/2024

    Girl Chat w/ Z Singleton, Hot Topics from a Black Woman's Lens!

    Summary In this episode, the hosts are joined by Iam_Z.Singleton on YouTube and IG to discuss various topics related to black women. They talk about Z's podcast and her journey as a podcaster. They also discuss the importance of awareness and acceptance among black women. The conversation then shifts to the topic of equal pay in women's sports, specifically focusing on Angel Reese's salary in the WNBA. They explore the challenges faced by black women in terms of pay equality and the need for women to advocate for themselves. The hosts also discuss Ashanti & Nelly's baby news and the trend of women waiting until later in life to become mothers and the importance of self-care. The conversation covers various topics related to pregnancy, motherhood, and self-care. The hosts and guest discuss the importance of taking time for oneself and establishing a strong foundation before starting a family. They also touch on the challenges and fears that come with pregnancy, including the risk of complications and the need for proper education and support. The conversation emphasizes the power of women in making choices about their reproductive health and the importance of advocating for oneself in healthcare settings. Overall, the discussion highlights the diverse experiences and perspectives of women when it comes to motherhood. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the importance of protecting black children and the need for appropriate police tactics. They also share their self-care practices and recommend books and movies. The conversation ends with a reminder that all women are worth it. Takeaways - Podcasting can be a powerful platform for raising awareness and sharing stories. - Black women face challenges in terms of pay equality in various industries, including sports. - Women are choosing to wait until later in life to become mothers in order to pursue their careers and personal goals. - Self-care is important for maintaining overall well-being and should be prioritized. Taking time for self-care and establishing a strong foundation before starting a family is important. - Pregnancy can come with challenges and fears, and it is crucial to have proper education and support. - Women have the power to make choices about their reproductive health and should advocate for themselves in healthcare settings. - Motherhood is a diverse experience, and each woman's journey is unique. Protecting black children is crucial in a society that often treats them unfairly. - Appropriate police tactics and communication are necessary when dealing with children. - Self-care practices, such as reading and exercise, are important for mental and physical well-being. - Recommendations for books and movies can provide entertainment and education. - All women are worth it and should embrace vulnerability. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for full podcast videos @ HNTT PRODUCTIONS! Subscribe to our podcast to receive alerts as we drop new episodes on Spotify and Apple podcasts! Please rate our podcast and leave us a review!

    49 min
  8. Your First Million Live 2024 | Invisible Women Podcast Live Coverage

    04/15/2024

    Your First Million Live 2024 | Invisible Women Podcast Live Coverage

    Monica and Melody discuss their experience at the Your First Million Live 2024 event in LA. They talk about the importance of networking and surrounding yourself with mentors to level up in business. They also discuss the value of working with people who don't necessarily look like you and the benefits of branching out. The conversation takes a turn when Monica shares her allergic reaction during the event and her trip to the emergency room. They emphasize the importance of teamwork and adaptability in entrepreneurship. They conclude by expressing gratitude for the event and its organizer, Arlan Hamilton. Subscribe to our HNTT PRODUCTIONS Youtube channel for full podcast video!

    8 min
See All (62)

Trailers

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Hosted by sisters Melody and Monica, explores the authentic stories and experiences of Black women navigating the realms of leadership, corporate America, entrepreneurship, and creative industries. As Corporate America queens, authors, founders, and visionaries, Melody and Monica share their journeys, highlight the barriers they face, and celebrate the resilience and cultural contributions of Black women. Each episode aims to inspire, educate, and empower listeners to THRIVE! Subscribe to our YouTube channel for full podcast videos: https://www.youtube.com/@hnttproductions

Information

  • Creator
    Melody Simmons- Hudson & Monica Simmons
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    62
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Melody Simmons- Hudson & Monica Simmons
  • Show Website
    INvisible Women Podcast