Pondering Thoughts Podcast

K. Wilkes
  • 5.0 (4)
  • PHILOSOPHY

Pondering Thoughts Podcast is a captivating podcast for curious minds.  Hosted by K. Wilkes, each episode is crafted with care to provide you with engaging stories, thought-provoking insights, and occasional interviews to satiate the hungry minds of curious individuals.  From themes in literature to cultural phenomena and everything in between Pondering Thoughts Podcast will delve into a myriad of topics that will leave you endlessly curious. So get ready to embark on an adventure of stimulating conversations that will leave you pondering long after each episode ends. 

  1. DEC 11

    Legal Must-Knows for Content Creators: Protect Your Brand, Likeness, and IP with Attorney Samantha Bradshaw

    In this episode, host K. Wilkes and legal expert Samantha Bradshaw break down the legal essentials every content creator should understand. They tackle common misconceptions—like thinking an LLC provides trademark protection—and clarify the core pillars of intellectual property: trademarks, copyrights, and patents. Samantha explains how copyright protection is automatic, why registration matters, and how tools like batch filings, contracts, and media releases help creators protect their content and likeness online. They also explore the challenges of AI-generated content, the importance of knowing the difference between state and federal laws, and practical ways creators can proactively safeguard their work. Samantha shares insights from building her virtual law firm and highlights the value of strong support systems when navigating entrepreneurship—including why teaching your team copyright basics can reduce legal costs. If you’re interested in connecting with Samantha for masterminds, membership groups, or local business circles—where she offers educational support on business and intellectual property law—please refer to the Guest Info below. Packed with actionable tips, this conversation helps creators build a strong, legally sound foundation for their brand. Chapters 02:00 Demystifying Legal Practices for Content Creators 14:12 Understanding Intellectual Property and Common Mistakes 17:13 Defining Intellectual Property: Trademarks, Copyrights, and Patents 22:17 Navigating Copyright Protection and Registration 26:34 Protecting Content in the Age of AI 28:15 Navigating Copyright Challenges 30:57 Understanding Watch Services for Content Protection 34:55 The Public Nature of Likeness and Content Ownership 39:40 The Importance of Contracts in Content Creation 43:10 Creating Effective Guest Release Agreements 52:45 Navigating Legal Challenges in Podcasting 53:20 Essential Protections for Podcasters 54:55 Setting Goals for Your Podcast 56:54 Balancing SEO and Trademarking 58:51 Creating Trademarkable Brand Names 01:00 Leveraging Intellectual Property for Growth 01:02 Closing Thoughts - Building a Strong Foundation for Your Brand Guest Info Samantha Bradshaw is a business attorney and the founder of InLine Legal. With a background as the Senior Foreign of Counsel for a multinational law firm in Beirut, Lebanon, she has a unique perspective on cross-border business and a life-by-design approach. Working from anywhere there's internet, Samantha is on a mission to empower a new generation of entrepreneurs by anti-gatekeeping legal information and showing them how to build a business that supports their life, not the other way around. She’s here to talk about how a collaborative, no-nonsense approach to intellectual property can help you create lasting value and build a brand you actually own. Resources InLine Legal website Instagram YouTube LinkedIn Like what you heard? Share with others and follow us @ponderingthoughtspodcast Instagram

    1h 12m

  2. NOV 20

    Critical Minds in Critical Times: Teaching Higher Ed in Today's Political Climate with Dr. Kris Marsh

    In this lively conversation, host K. Wilkes speaks with Dr. Kris Marsh as she dives into the challenges and rewards of teaching in today’s politically charged higher education landscape. She reflects on the importance of critical thinking and authentic student engagement, drawing from her popular Boondocks class and highlighting the power of contemporary culture—like Kendrick Lamar’s music—to connect with students. Dr. Marsh also explores Black joy as a revolutionary act, shares her strategies for self-care, and discusses the evolving nature of teaching, encouraging educators to adapt their methods to truly meet students where they are. By the end, listeners will see that teaching is not just about imparting knowledge—it’s about shaping minds and nurturing resilience in every classroom.  Chapters 02:00 Introduction and Welcome Back 04:29 Teaching in a Changing Political Climate 05:34 Adapting Teaching Methods for Critical Thinking 11:53 The Boondocks Class: Engaging Students Through Media 17:00 Disrupting Myths: Conversations on Race and Fatherhood 22:05 Student Demographics and Class Dynamics 25:18 Navigating Censorship in Education 28:12 The Future of the Boondocks Class 29:40 Exploring Sociology Through Pop Culture 34:19 The Evolution of Teaching Methods 40:17 Ethnography and the Kendrick Lamar Experience 48:22 Reflections on Race and Music 50:17 Exploring Black Joy 52:50 The Intersection of Black Joy and Research 55:54 Rest as Resistance 57:23 Self-Care and Joy in Academia 01:06 Reflections on Teaching in Today's Climate Guest Info https://drkrismarsh.com/ Like what you heard? Share with others and follow us @ponderingthoughtspodcast Instagram

    1h 8m

  3. NOV 6

    Special Episode: Exploring Andropause: Male Menopause Explained with Dr. Alan Kelton

    In this episode, host K. Wilkes is joined by Dr. Alan Kelton, a board-certified physician specializing in Internal Medicine to discuss andropause — often referred to as male menopause. Dr. Kelton explains what andropause is, how it differs from female menopause, and why testosterone decline and hypogonadism can have such a profound impact on men’s health. The conversation explores common symptoms such as fatigue, loss of libido, mood changes, and decreased energy, while emphasizing the importance of lifestyle changes, sleep, and nutrition in maintaining hormone balance. This episode also addresses widespread misconceptions about andropause and highlights the role of medical awareness and support systems in helping men navigate this stage of life. Dr. Kelton offers practical insights and encourages open communication with healthcare providers for those experiencing changes in hormonal health. Whether you’re experiencing these changes yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers practical insights and encourages men to seek medical advice and proactive care.  Chapters 02:00   Understanding Andropause: The Male Menopause 05:00    Symptoms and Manifestations of Andropause 07:53    The Age Factor: When Does Andropause Occur? 10:43    Lifestyle Changes to Combat Andropause 14:03   Misconceptions and Awareness of Andropause 22:13    Understanding Andropause and Hormone Testing 24:34    Evaluating Symptoms and Seeking Help 26:38    The Importance of Identifying Underlying Causes 26:49     Key Takeaways on Andropause Awareness 28:54     Supporting Loved Ones Through Andropause 29:48     Fun Questions with Dr. Kelton 37:14     Final Thoughts on Andropause Awareness Resource referenced in episode:  Endocrine Society Guidelines Like what you heard? Share with others and follow us @ponderingthoughtspodcast Instagram

    41 min

  4. OCT 30

    A Cosplay Journey: Creativity, Healing & Community with Brée Nachelle

    In this episode K. Wilkes sits down with Brée Nachelle, a passionate cosplayer, to explore the transformative world of cosplay. Brée shares her journey, which began as a way to connect with her children during a challenging time, and how cosplay became a source of healing, creativity, and joy. They discuss the vibrant cosplay community, the importance of representation—highlighting spaces like BlerdCon for Black cosplayers—and the collaborative creative process that brings costumes to life. Brée also opens up about public speaking at conventions, misconceptions about cosplayers, and the role of intent and mindfulness in cosplay. Full of laughter, insight, and heartfelt stories, this conversation celebrates cosplay as more than just dressing up—it’s about connection, curiosity, and the friendships that make the community thrive. Key Takeaways: Cosplay can be healing and joyful.Community and collaboration are central to cosplay.Representation matters; events like BlerdCon provide space for Black cosplayers.Overcoming public speaking anxiety through sharing personal stories.Cosplay builds connections and friendships.Misconceptions often obscure the diversity of cosplayers.Mindful intent enhances the cosplay experience.Staying curious fosters growth and community.Chapters 02:00  Introduction to Cosplay and Personal Journey 05:01  The Healing Power of Cosplay 07:43  Creative Process in Cosplay 10:55  Community and Representation in Cosplay 13:40  Challenges and Misconceptions in Cosplay 16:59  Public Speaking and Sharing Experiences 40:00  Game Time: Fun Questions 50:39 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Guest Info Website: https://breenachelle.com/ Book: Aligned, Not Automated Instagram: @baronessbree Like what you heard? Share with others and follow us @ponderingthoughtspodcast Instagram

    53 min

  5. OCT 16

    Building the Black Podcasters Association: A Conversation with Founder, Corey Gumbs

    In this episode of Pondering Thoughts, host K. Wilkes welcomes Corey Gumbs, founder of the Black Podcasters Association (BPA), to discuss his journey into podcasting, the challenges and triumphs of founding BPA, and the importance of community and advocacy in the podcasting space. Corey shares his personal story, insights on monetization, and the vision for BPA's future, highlighting how his musical family background influenced his path. Highlights Corey Gumbs started podcasting in the early 2000s, inspired by the potential of the internet and his family's musical influence.Growing up in a family with a rich musical heritage, Corey was exposed to jazz and hip hop, which shaped his creative journey.The Black Podcasts Association was founded to support, advocate, and educate black podcasters.Corey emphasizes the importance of community and building relationships in the podcasting space.Monetization should be considered from the start of a podcasting journey.Corey shares insights on the challenges of pricing and providing value to the community.The BPA aims to be a global institution supporting black creators worldwide.He highlights the importance of authenticity and not following trends in content creation.Corey encourages creators to embrace failure as a learning opportunity.The BPA's mission is to provide a safe space for black creators to grow and succeed.Chapters 00:02:02 - Introduction and Corey's Journey00:04:27  -  Discovering Podcasting00:14:41 -  Building the Black Podcasts Association00:34:17 -  Mission and Challenges of BPA00:44:34 -  Monetization and Community Building00:54:16 -  Vision for the Future01:00:00 - Closing ThoughtsGuest Info: Black Podcasters Association Website: https://store.blackpodcastersassociation.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theblackpodcastersassociation/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BlackPodcastersAssociation Corey Gumbs Website: https://www.coreygumbs.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coreygumbs/?hl=en Like what you heard? Share with others and follow us @ponderingthoughtspodcast Instagram

    1h 18m

  6. AUG 28

    Summer Book Spotlight: "Summer on Cape May" with Author Monica Garner

    Join this engaging conversation with author Monica Garner as we spotlight her latest novel, Summer on Cape May. This captivating beach read follows three lifelong friends Lu, Kenya, and Natalia who reunite in the charming seaside town of Cape May, New Jersey, to plan a lavish wedding. As the summer unfolds, past secrets, new loves, and difficult choices challenge their bond in unexpected ways. In this episode, Monica shares insights into her creative journey, discussing how she navigates the writing process, embraces new literary challenges, and explores diverse genres. Discover the inspiration behind Summer on Cape May and Monica's evolution as a storyteller. Additionally, Monica gives us a sneak peek into her upcoming project, Sunset Over Napa Valley, set to release in April 2026. This novel delves into the lives of two best friends and their college-age daughters as they journey to Napa Valley, where a long-held secret threatens to alter their relationships forever. Tune in for an inspiring discussion that explores the heart of friendship, love, and the transformative power of storytelling. Guest Information: Monica Garner (Author) Website: https://www.monica-writes.com/ Facebook Instagram Like what you heard? Share with others and follow us @ponderingthoughtspodcast Instagram

    49 min

  7. JUN 5

    Season 4 Wrap-Up: Lessons Learned, Growth Gained & What’s Next for Season 5

    As Season 4 comes to a close, K. Wilkes reflects on the evolution of the podcast — from standout guest insights to moments of personal growth behind the mic. In this episode, she shares what she’s learned, how curiosity and community have guided the journey, and what listeners can expect in Season 5. Plus, a look at how she plans to pause and recalibrate over the summer break. A thoughtful recap for curious minds who’ve been part of the story — and those just tuning in.   Like what you heard? Share with others and follow us @ponderingthoughtspodcast Instagram

    12 min

  8. MAY 22

    More Than a Diagnosis: Rewriting Mental Health Through Storytelling with Dominic Lawson

    In this powerful episode host K. Wilkes sits down with Dominic Lawson, the creator of the groundbreaking new podcast Mental Health Rewritten, to dive deep into the evolving landscape of mental health conversations. Together, they explore how storytelling, cultural identity, and personal experience can transform the way we talk about mental health. Dominic Lawson shares the inspiration behind Mental Health Rewritten and how its unique narrative format sets it apart from traditional mental health podcasts. From sex addiction and suicide awareness to sexual anorexia and generational trauma, this episode goes beyond surface-level discussions, tackling topics often left out of mainstream conversations. Lawson also discusses the rigorous research behind the podcast, referencing tools like the DSM and ICD-11, and emphasizes the importance of culturally nuanced mental health resources. Whether you're a podcast lover, mental health advocate, or someone on a journey of personal growth, this episode offers a fresh, accessible perspective on healing, identity, and the power of vulnerability. Join us as we unpack the complexities of mental health, addiction, therapy, and what it truly means to rewrite your story. Highlights 04:30    Inspiration Behind the Podcast 05:53    Unique Approaches to Mental Health Discussions 08:14     The 312 Format Explained 13:57      The Significance of the Title 'Mental Health Rewritten' 17:05      Understanding DSM and ICD-11 18:21     Making Mental Health Accessible 19:40     The Power of Storytelling in Mental Health 24:36      Research Process for the Podcast 33:25      Rethinking Mental Health Perspectives 35:39      The Vision Behind Mental Health Rewritten 37:24      Insights from Research and Personal Growth 39:49      Understanding Sexual Anorexia 42:47      Cultural Contexts of Sexual Addiction 45:15      The Complexity of Treatment Approaches 48:23     Accessibility and Addiction 53:40    Engaging Conversations on Mental Health 56:29     Final Thoughts on Mental Health Awareness Resources and Guest Info Mental Health Rewritten Podcast Website - https://www.mentalhealthrewrittenpodcast.com/ Dominic Lawson Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/therealdominiclawson/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominiclawson Like what you heard? Share with others and follow us @ponderingthoughtspodcast Instagram

    1h 1m
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Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Pondering Thoughts Podcast is a captivating podcast for curious minds.  Hosted by K. Wilkes, each episode is crafted with care to provide you with engaging stories, thought-provoking insights, and occasional interviews to satiate the hungry minds of curious individuals.  From themes in literature to cultural phenomena and everything in between Pondering Thoughts Podcast will delve into a myriad of topics that will leave you endlessly curious. So get ready to embark on an adventure of stimulating conversations that will leave you pondering long after each episode ends. 

Information

  • Creator
    K. Wilkes
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    52
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Pondering Thoughts Podcast
  • Show Website
    Pondering Thoughts Podcast