Black Women Amplified Podcast

Monica Wisdom

Black Women Amplified is a podcast for Black women over 40 who are navigating a midlife pivot and ready to step into their next chapter with clarity and confidence. For seven seasons, the show amplified the voices and stories of Black women across industries and lived experiences. In Season 8, the focus turns inward. Hosted by Monica Wisdom, midlife pivot strategist for women over 40, this season supports women who feel the pull toward something more. If you have carried big dreams for years, feel stuck or outgrowing the life you built, or are considering starting over at 40 or 50, this podcast is your guide. Each episode explores the real work of a midlife pivot. You will learn how to shed outdated identities, release expectations that no longer fit, navigate career changes in midlife, rediscover purpose after 40, and move through the messy middle of change with confidence. This is not about becoming someone new. It is about evolving into your real self and building a life centered on who you are becoming, not just what you do. Whether you are redefining success after 50, rebuilding confidence, healing from burnout, or making a bold life decision, Black Women Amplified offers grounded insight and culturally rooted guidance to help you move forward with clarity and courage. Season 8 is your space to pivot, evolve, and finally honor the woman you have always known yourself to be.

  1. 2D AGO

    Wendy Moten: A Voice That Refused to Be Boxed In

    There are voices you hear, and then there are voices you feel. This week on Black Women Amplified, we sit with the incomparable Wendy Moten, an artist whose career has been defined not just by talent but by staying power, faith, and a deep understanding of who she is. From her breakout moment in 1992 to her unforgettable appearance on The Voice in 2020, Wendy’s journey stretches across decades of an industry that is constantly shifting. What stands out is not just longevity, but the way she has continued to evolve without losing herself. She shares what it really looks like to keep going when the spotlight changes, when the industry shifts, and when your path no longer fits the mold you were given. In this conversation, Wendy opens up about the early days and what it felt like stepping into visibility, and how those first moments shaped everything that followed. She speaks candidly about the choices she made to step away from traditional industry routes, including her decision to tour globally with Julio Iglesias, and how that experience expanded her view of what a career in music could be. We also explore the foundation beneath the voice. Wendy reflects on how her upbringing and the legacy of the civil rights movement shaped her courage, her discipline, and her commitment to excellence. There is a throughline of faith in her story. Not performative, but steady. The kind that carries you when nothing else makes sense. What makes Wendy’s journey so compelling is her range, both musically and personally. She has moved seamlessly across genres such as country, jazz, and soul, never asking permission and never shrinking herself to fit expectations. That versatility is not accidental. It is the result of knowing your gift and honoring it fully. At the heart of it all is connection. Wendy does not just sing songs; she creates moments where people feel seen. In a world that often asks you to narrow who you are, her story is a reminder that your fullness is your power. This episode is about more than music. It is about endurance. It is about trusting your path even when it looks different than what you imagined. It is about the quiet confidence that comes from knowing exactly who you are. In This Episode, We Discuss: Building a career that lasts beyond trendsThe decision to step away from traditional industry expectationsWhat global touring taught her about artistry and audienceHow history and lived experience shape confidence and voiceMoving across genres without losing identityThe discipline behind longevity in musicCreating connection through your workWhy This Conversation Matters Wendy’s story grounds us in something real. A career built over time, shaped by decisions that did not always make sense on paper, but made sense in her spirit. There is a steadiness in her journey. The kind that comes from doing the work, staying committed, and trusting your own timing even when the industry, or the world around you, is moving fast and expecting quick results. What she offers here is perspective. You can take a different route. You can pivot. You can expand. You can do it without losing the core of who you are. This conversation is for anyone standing at a crossroads, questioning their next move, or wondering if it is too late to redefine what success looks like on their own terms.

    1h 4m
  2. The Costume Designer Behind 80+ Productions Shares Her Story | Icey Parks

    2D AGO

    The Costume Designer Behind 80+ Productions Shares Her Story | Icey Parks

    For more than 30 years, Icey Parks has been a quiet force across film, television, and theater. She began behind the stages of Broadway, running wardrobe departments and shaping how stories are told through costume. That foundation carried her into a career spanning more than 80 projects. You may not know her name, but you have seen her work. From American Gangster to Nurse Jackie, Oz, Luke Cage, and Pose, her imprint is woven into the culture. In this rare conversation, Icey opens up about her journey, her discipline, and what it takes to sustain a career behind the scenes at the highest level. We also talk about her latest project, The Color Purple, produced by Oprah Winfrey and Steven Spielberg, and the responsibility of helping bring powerful stories to life. Icey does not do interviews, which makes this moment a true gift. This is a look into the life of a woman whose work has always spoken for itself. In This Episode, We Talk About: Building a 30-year career behind the scenes in film, television, and theaterStarting in Broadway wardrobe and developing a creative foundationThe role of costume in storytelling and character developmentWorking across iconic productions and shaping cultural momentsHer work on The Color Purple and what continues to inspire herLongevity, discipline, and staying power in a competitive industryWhy This Episode Matters: This conversation offers a rare perspective on the women who shape what we see, even when they are not in front of the camera. It is a reminder that legacy is not always loud, but it is always felt. Listen & Subscribe: If this episode resonates with you, subscribe, rate, and review Black Women Amplified. Your support helps us continue to share these powerful stories.

    49 min
  3. Liv Warfield: International Performer

    2D AGO

    Liv Warfield: International Performer

    Liv Warfield does not ease into a stage. She steps into it fully. A vocalist with range, control, and presence, she has built her career performing at the highest level. From sharing the stage with Prince to working alongside Nancy Wilson of Heart and stepping into the national spotlight on America’s Got Talent, Liv has long been a performer who knows exactly how to hold a room. In this episode, we talk about what happens beyond those moments. This is a conversation about building your own lane, staying rooted in your voice in an industry that does not always know where to place you, and the discipline it takes to sustain a life in music. We also talk about her return home to Peoria for a special performance with a symphony behind her, and what it means to come back not as who you were, but as who you have become. This is not about starting over. It is about ownership. To learn more about Liv Warfield, visit: https://livwarfieldofficial.com/ IN THIS EPISODE Building your own lane as an artistStaying true to your voice in a shifting industryThe discipline behind longevity in musicReturning home with a new level of clarityPerforming with a symphony and what that moment represents WEBSITE: www,blackwomenamplified.com and monicawisdomglobal.com

    46 min
  4. Richelle Carey: Leaving the Spotlight, Choosing Motherhood after 40

    MAR 27

    Richelle Carey: Leaving the Spotlight, Choosing Motherhood after 40

    In this intimate and revealing conversation, Monica Wisdom sits down with Richelle Carey, an award-winning journalist whose career has spanned major newsrooms and global platforms, and who made the bold decision to walk away at the height of it. Known for her work in broadcast journalism, Richelle built a respected career delivering the news to millions. Behind that success was a deeper question about fulfillment, timing, and what it means to live life on your own terms. In this episode, Richelle opens up about the moment everything shifted. She shares what led her to step away from a high-profile career and pursue motherhood later in life, a decision that required clarity, courage, and a willingness to redefine success outside of public validation. This is not a conversation about leaving something behind. It is about choosing yourself fully. We explore the reality of navigating a career that looks successful on paper but requires personal sacrifice, and what it means to listen to your inner voice when it asks for something different. Richelle speaks candidly about identity, timing, and the courage it takes to pivot when the world expects you to stay the course. This conversation is a reflection on life transitions, personal truth, and the quiet power of making decisions that align with who you are becoming. In this episode, we discuss: Building a career in journalism and what it requiresThe decision to leave a high-profile role at the height of successChoosing motherhood and redefining personal timelinesLetting go of external validation and public identityCreating a life that reflects your truthAbout Richelle Carey Richelle Carey is an award-winning journalist and former global news anchor who has worked with major networks, including Al Jazeera English and HLN. Her career has taken her across the world, covering complex global stories while maintaining a commitment to thoughtful, human-centered reporting. Listen and Stay Connected Visit: www.blackwomenamplified.com Follow: @blackwomenamplified

    39 min
  5. Natasha Yvette Williams: Tony-nominated actress

    MAR 27

    Natasha Yvette Williams: Tony-nominated actress

    In this dynamic and deeply engaging conversation, Monica Wisdom sits down with Natasha Yvette Williams, a powerhouse performer whose presence on stage is matched only by the depth of her journey behind the scenes. Natasha’s story is one of vision, discipline, and the kind of resilience that is forged over time. She shares what it takes to build a life in one of the most competitive industries in the world, offering an honest look at the path to Broadway and the realities that come with it. From her early aspirations to commanding some of the most celebrated stages, Natasha reflects on the moments that shaped her—both the triumphs and the challenges. Her journey moves beyond performance and into purpose, revealing what it means to stay grounded while navigating an industry built on visibility. This conversation also explores what happens after the spotlight. Natasha speaks to expanding her career beyond Broadway, stepping into new opportunities, and embracing the evolution of her craft on her own terms. At the heart of this episode is a deeper truth: success is not a single moment. It is built through persistence, relationships, and the courage to continue even when the path is unclear. In this episode, we discuss: The real journey to Broadway and what it requiresNavigating an industry that demands both excellence and enduranceExpanding beyond the stage and building a lasting careerThe role of community, relationships, and support systemsStaying grounded while stepping into greater visibilityNatasha’s story is a reminder that dreams are only the beginning. The real work is in becoming the woman who can hold them. About Natasha Yvette Williams Natasha Yvette Williams is a Tony-nominated actress known for her standout performances on Broadway, including her breakout role in Some Like It Hot. With a career that spans theater, television, and music, she continues to leave a lasting impression both on stage and beyond. Listen & Stay Connected Visit: www.blackwomenamplified.com Follow: @blackwomenamplified

    52 min
  6. Tonya Pinkins: The Power of Legacy on and off Broadway

    MAR 27

    Tonya Pinkins: The Power of Legacy on and off Broadway

    In this powerful and deeply layered conversation, Monica Wisdom sits down with the incomparable Tonya Pinkins—Tony Award-winning actress, author, activist, and a woman who has never asked for permission to speak her truth. Known for her commanding presence on stage and screen, Tonya’s journey extends far beyond performance. She has built a life rooted in conviction, creativity, and courage, using her voice not only to entertain but to challenge, disrupt, and uplift. In this episode, we move beyond titles and into the heart of who she is. Tonya reflects on her early life and the foundation that shaped her, sharing what it meant to grow up in environments that required both resilience and imagination. She speaks candidly about navigating the theater industry, the weight of representation, and the discipline it takes to sustain a career on Broadway while remaining true to herself. This is not a surface-level conversation about success. It is a reflection on what it costs to live fully expressed. We also explore the intersections of art and activism. Tonya opens up about using her platform to speak on issues that matter, even when it comes with resistance. Her perspective is clear—visibility without purpose is empty, and real impact requires both voice and action. As a mother and a creative, she shares the ongoing work of balancing family and career, offering an honest look at what it means to show up fully in both spaces. There is no perfection here, only intention. This conversation is a masterclass in owning your story, standing in your truth, and refusing to shrink in rooms that were not built with you in mind. In this episode, we discuss: The journey from early ambition to Broadway excellenceWhat it really takes to sustain a life in the artsThe responsibility of visibility and using your voice with purposeBalancing motherhood, creativity, and personal truthWhy telling your story is both personal and politicalTonya Pinkins reminds us that our voices are not optional. They are necessary. About Tonya Pinkins Tonya Pinkins is a Tony Award-winning actress best known for her work on Broadway in productions such as Caroline, or Change, Jelly’s Last Jam, and Merrily We Roll Along. Beyond the stage, she is an author, filmmaker, and outspoken advocate whose work continues to push conversations around equity, identity, and creative freedom. Connect & Continue the Conversation Visit: www.blackwomenamplified.com Follow: @blackwomenamplified

    48 min
  7. Annette Freeman: The Power of Pleasure

    MAR 27

    Annette Freeman: The Power of Pleasure

    Today on Black Women Amplified, we step into the radiant world of Annette Freeman—visionary, coach, and headmistress of The Goddess Portal. Annette’s mission is clear: to help professional women reconnect with their deepest desires, reclaim their feminine power, and manifest lives of pleasure and purpose. Through her unique blend of coaching, movement, and sacred experiences, she serves as a midwife for transformation—guiding women to rise in both their personal and professional lives. But Annette brings even more to the table. She’s an Emmy-award-winning producer, journalist, and educator whose work spans prestigious platforms like Columbia University, NBC News, and the New York Film Academy. She’s currently consulting on the upcoming documentary Minnie Evans: Draw or Die, releasing in 2024. In This Episode, We Explore: The origin and power of The Goddess PortalWhat it means to be a midwife for women’s desiresHow pleasure and movement activate personal transformationAnnette’s journey from journalism to women’s empowermentBalancing softness with professional brilliance Don’t Miss This If You’re Craving: A deeper connection to your feminine energyTools for manifesting your most aligned lifeInspiration from a woman who has redefined success on her own terms Available on all major podcast platforms. Subscribe, share, and amplify with us. #BlackWomenAmplified #AnnetteFreeman #TheGoddessPortal #FemininePower #PleasureAndPurpose #BlackWomenInMedia #WomenWhoInspire #MidlifeMagic #EmmyAwardWinner #MinnieEvansDrawOrDie #HealingThroughMovement #SoftLifeLeadership

    1h 34m
  8. Jayne Allen on The Best Man, Black Women in Fiction, and Building Her Literary Universe

    10/21/2025

    Jayne Allen on The Best Man, Black Women in Fiction, and Building Her Literary Universe

    In this episode of Black Women Amplified, we sit down with Jayne Allen, the bestselling author of the acclaimed Black Girls Must trilogy, a series that has captured the hearts of readers around the world. Jayne shares her journey from Harvard-trained attorney to bestselling novelist, turning her brilliance, purpose, and creativity into a powerful storytelling career. You will hear about her collaboration with Malcolm D. Lee, the visionary filmmaker behind The Best Man franchise, and what it was like joining forces to expand one of the most beloved stories in Black culture into a new literary experience. Jayne also opens up about what is next in the Jayne Allen Universe, from new projects to empowering the next generation of authors through her education platform, Book Genius. This conversation is for every Black woman who is ready to own her story, claim her voice, and build a legacy rooted in creativity and courage. In this episode, you will hear:Jayne’s journey from Harvard Law to bestselling authorThe creative collaboration with Malcolm D. Lee on The Best Man book seriesHow she built the Black Girls Must Die Exhausted trilogy into a global phenomenonThe business and purpose behind her storytelling empireInsights into Book Genius and how she helps aspiring authors navigate publishingWhat is next in the Jayne Allen UniverseAbout Jayne Allen: Jayne Allen is the bestselling author of Black Girls Must Die Exhausted, Black Girls Must Be Magic, Black Girls Must Have It All, and The Most Wonderful Time. She is also the co-author of The Best Man book series, inspired by the beloved film and television franchise created by Malcolm D. Lee. A graduate of Duke University and Harvard Law School, Jayne is the founder of Book Genius, where she helps authors master the art and business of publishing. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, Essence, Good Morning America, USA Today, and more. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you stream your favorite shows. Visit BlackWomenAmplified.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/black-women-amplified--6590667/support.

    52 min
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4.9
out of 5
16 Ratings

About

Black Women Amplified is a podcast for Black women over 40 who are navigating a midlife pivot and ready to step into their next chapter with clarity and confidence. For seven seasons, the show amplified the voices and stories of Black women across industries and lived experiences. In Season 8, the focus turns inward. Hosted by Monica Wisdom, midlife pivot strategist for women over 40, this season supports women who feel the pull toward something more. If you have carried big dreams for years, feel stuck or outgrowing the life you built, or are considering starting over at 40 or 50, this podcast is your guide. Each episode explores the real work of a midlife pivot. You will learn how to shed outdated identities, release expectations that no longer fit, navigate career changes in midlife, rediscover purpose after 40, and move through the messy middle of change with confidence. This is not about becoming someone new. It is about evolving into your real self and building a life centered on who you are becoming, not just what you do. Whether you are redefining success after 50, rebuilding confidence, healing from burnout, or making a bold life decision, Black Women Amplified offers grounded insight and culturally rooted guidance to help you move forward with clarity and courage. Season 8 is your space to pivot, evolve, and finally honor the woman you have always known yourself to be.

Information

  • Creator
    Monica Wisdom
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    52
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Black Women Amplified Podcast
  • Show Website
    Black Women Amplified Podcast