The Un-Edited Project

Shareef J.

Season 2 - Theme: Uncharted Chapters & Intentional Growth & Healing Hosted by Shareef J, The Unedited Project returns for Season 2 with deeper conversations about uncharted chapters and the intentional work of healing. From revisiting relationships that shaped us, to navigating grief, mental health, family dynamics, and the ever-changing definitions of love, this season leans into what it truly means to grow beyond the stories we thought we’d be living.

  1. Jan 1

    Episode 7: Dear Mama, A Conversation 30 Years in the Making..

    Summary In this heartfelt conversation, Shareef J and his mother Bernie reflect on their 30-year journey together, exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and identity. They discuss the impact of military life on their family dynamics, the challenges of navigating black motherhood and queerness, and the importance of mutual protection and support. Through candid anecdotes and shared experiences, they highlight the significance of communication, understanding, and unconditional love in their relationship. In this heartfelt conversation, they explore their deep bond, reflecting on their shared experiences, personal growth, and the lessons learned throughout their lives. They discuss the challenges of adulthood, the importance of financial responsibility, and the healing power of their relationship. Bernie shares her aspirations for her legacy, emphasizing the importance of giving and living life to the fullest, while Shareef expresses gratitude for the support and love he has received. Together, they highlight the significance of family, identity, and the journey of becoming oneself. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to a 30-Year Journey 02:05 Mommy's Herstory: A Glimpse into Bernadette's Childhood 09:10 The Path to Military Life 14:33 Meeting Dad: A Love Story in the Military 21:46 Reflections on Military Life and Its Impact 26:48 Navigating Change: The Challenges of a Military Childhood 30:03 Black Motherhood and Raising a Black Gay Son 34:02 Understanding Identity and Mannerisms 39:19 The Protective Instinct of a Mother 45:12 The Balance of Protection and Freedom 48:46 Strengths in the Mother-Son Relationship 57:38 Emotional Connections and Understanding 59:49 Money, Adulthood, and Growing Pains 01:12:46 Identity, Purpose, and Becoming Myself 01:18:47 Healing Through Love and Connection 01:22:49 Legacy Questions: Understanding Our Roots 01:31:35 Leaving a Lasting Legacy Keywords: motherhood, military life, black identity, LGBTQ, family dynamics, personal growth, love, sacrifice, parenting, relationships, mother-son relationship, personal growth, financial lessons, identity, legacy, healing, family dynamics, love, support, life lessons

  2. 12/15/2025

    Episode 6: Becoming Again ft. Kayla J.

    In this episode, Shareef J and Kayla J explore themes of healing, growth, and self-discovery through the lens of heartbreak and friendship. They reflect on their personal journeys, the lessons learned from past relationships, and the importance of community and self-love. The conversation emphasizes the significance of recognizing when to let go of unhealthy relationships and the value of friendships that nurture and support personal growth. In this engaging conversation, Shareef and Kayla explore the complexities of navigating relationships, the resilience found in overcoming health challenges, and the importance of empathy in understanding others. They discuss the impact of chronic illness on body image and self-acceptance, the lessons learned in patience and healing, and the vital role of community support. The dialogue also touches on the evolution of self-care practices, the significance of friendship, and the joy found in acceptance. Ultimately, they emphasize the power of duality in life, recognizing that multiple truths can coexist, and share insights on fostering positive interactions in a world that often highlights negativity. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Healing and Growth 02:43 Friendship Foundations: How We Met 12:00 Reflecting on Past Seasons of Life 19:21 Lessons from Heartbreak 25:04 Recognizing When to Let Go 31:26 Finding Yourself in Relationships 39:35 Navigating Relationships and Friendships 40:59 Resilience Through Health Challenges 43:57 The Importance of Empathy 45:24 Understanding Chronic Illness 48:46 Body Image and Self-Acceptance 50:43 Lessons in Patience and Healing 55:56 The Role of Community in Healing 58:06 Self-Care and Unapologetic Living 01:03:17 The Evolution of Friendship 01:09:42 Finding Joy in Acceptance 01:15:01 The Power of Duality in Life 01:18:19 Positive Male Interactions and Healing Keywords: self-discovery, heartbreak, growth, friendship, healing, personal development, self-love, relationships, emotional health, communication, relationships, resilience, empathy, chronic illness, body image, self-acceptance, community, self-care, friendship, joy

  3. 10/15/2025

    Episode 2: Grief in Real Life ft. Harold Lloyd

    In this episode of 'Grief in Real Time,' Host Shareef Phillips, and special guest, Harold Lloyd, engage in a heartfelt conversation about the complexities of grief, its impact on identity, and the importance of community support. They share personal stories of loss, exploring how grief shapes their lives and relationships. The discussion highlights the often-avoided topic of grief within black communities and emphasizes the need for open dialogue and understanding. Through their experiences, they reflect on the role of time in processing grief and coping with significant dates that remind them of their loved ones. In this heartfelt conversation, Shareef Phillips and Harold Lloyd explore the profound impact of losing loved ones, particularly fathers. They share personal stories of grief, resilience, and the ways they honor their fathers through art and daily life. The discussion emphasizes the importance of vulnerability, the non-linear nature of grief, and the significance of taking time to heal. They also reflect on messages they would send to their departed loved ones, highlighting the enduring connection and love that persists beyond death. keywords: grief, identity, loss, healing, resilience, black community, coping, family, friendship, emotional health, grief, loss, honoring loved ones, resilience, personal growth, emotional healing, storytelling, vulnerability, family, support Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Grief in Real Time08:07 The Impact of Grief on Identity and Relationships24:33 Processing Grief: Personal Experiences and Reflections27:48 Navigating Grief and Responsibility31:42 Heavy Days: Coping with Loss.32:23 The Impact of Time on Grief43:25 Resilience in the Face of Loss51:08 Honoring Our Loved Ones55:16 Embracing the Gift of Voice58:31 Honoring Legacy Through Performance01:01:48 Navigating Grief and Healing01:10:11 Messages to Loved Ones01:11:56 Advice for the Newly Grieving Music Powered by Producer.Ai

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Season 2 - Theme: Uncharted Chapters & Intentional Growth & Healing Hosted by Shareef J, The Unedited Project returns for Season 2 with deeper conversations about uncharted chapters and the intentional work of healing. From revisiting relationships that shaped us, to navigating grief, mental health, family dynamics, and the ever-changing definitions of love, this season leans into what it truly means to grow beyond the stories we thought we’d be living.