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Honestly, I’m irritated.

Honestly, I’m irritated.

By Ashley Milan Brooks

Take a listen as I—a millennial, MFA candidate, intersectional environmentalist, and Black woman—ramble on about all of the things in this life that pique my interest and possibly cause me some slight irritation, with a fresh twist of individuality and wit of course. Tune in as weekly and monthly topics entice you and encourage you to think about how you experience your life and the world around you. Come join the convo! Because honestly, I’m irritated that you haven’t been listening already!
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S3 Episode 15: Run It Back

Honestly, I’m irritated.Dec 06, 2020

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35:18
S4 Episode 3: …sorry about ghosting you, life started life-ing.

S4 Episode 3: …sorry about ghosting you, life started life-ing.

Hey y’all! Happy New Year 🎉 Like a young cub searching and longing for its mother, I know you all have been wondering…where did Ashley go? What happened to a young, irritated bae?! Well, I can explain. Life got real, grad school commenced, and my time-management and sanity went out the window. ANYWAYS, let’s wet our podcast whistles back up with a recap of a recent creative thesis writing assignment and my past few days. A year long recap will be soon to follow because HONESTLY, it’s been a lot. Let’s get into it!
Jan 19, 202329:10
S4 Episode 2: Winning Season

S4 Episode 2: Winning Season

Different seasons of life require different levels of commitment, behavior, and action. This time around, I’m reaping BIG time, but only because of the losing and learning seasons that came before. Let’s talk about it ✨
Jun 04, 202125:60
S4 Episode 1: Back Up On My BS.

S4 Episode 1: Back Up On My BS.

What? Oh lol, I thought last season said something. Hey!✨ First name Honestly, middle/last-name combo I’m irritated reporting LIVE to you with a quite quirky cuarta temporada. (Get the “q”vibe?!) Let’s vocally strut through this NEW month and season reflecting, appreciating, and preparing for the future! Let’s get it ✨
Apr 15, 202134:57
S3 Episode 16: Still Coming Out Strong

S3 Episode 16: Still Coming Out Strong

Y’all! We have made it to a new year with its own unique set of opportunities, lessons, joyous moments, and so much more. This season-ender is an ode to where we’ve come, where we’ll go, and how to get there reclaiming our power and being more in control of our reactions. ✨ Let’s get to it!
Feb 16, 202134:49
S3 Episode 15: Run It Back

S3 Episode 15: Run It Back

So my planner was SUPPOSED to be my partner in optimism this year...even though she just sold me lies. Hindsight is always 20/20 though, right? Listen as I recap this decade’s culmination by month & dissect my planner and I’s toxic relationship this past year. (I deserved SO much better smh). Let’s get to it! ✨
Dec 06, 202035:18
S3 Episode 14: Certified Freak, 7 Days a Week

S3 Episode 14: Certified Freak, 7 Days a Week

Episodes with music are only available on Spotify.
So I’ve always been a little ”different” than some of those around me, but still cool enough to blend in and be chill, ya know? Well at least I always thought so. Isn’t it funny though when your idea of yourself and others perception of you don’t align? Wowwww. Tea. Confusion. Embarrassment. Let’s get into it! ✨
Nov 14, 202029:02
S3 Episode 13: Pt. 2 Vessels and Signs

S3 Episode 13: Pt. 2 Vessels and Signs

Episodes with music are only available on Spotify.
Pt. 2! As we juggle life and what it throws at us, let’s not forget about the ways we can be of service and blessings to those whom we live + interact with daily. Join me as I reminisce on some personal experiences. Let’s get to it! ✨
Oct 15, 202024:41
S3 Episode 12: Pt.1 Vessels and Signs

S3 Episode 12: Pt.1 Vessels and Signs

As we juggle life and what it throws at us, let’s not forget about the ways we can be of service and blessings to those whom we live + interact with daily. Join me as I reminisce on some personal experiences. Let’s get to it! ✨
Sep 24, 202019:58
S3 Episode 11: Life of the Post-er

S3 Episode 11: Life of the Post-er

My college experience has been one of unique + unexpected nature, but regardless has been very meaningful. Listen as I reveal how my life mission has evolved over time and ponder on how I anticipate life changing + enhancing me in the future...of course with a little rant as well. Enjoy! ✨
Aug 30, 202034:18
S3 Episode 10: Red Pill Me, Please.

S3 Episode 10: Red Pill Me, Please.

From governmental corruption to the mixed perceptions of the Jahari Window, let’s check out of the regularly scheduled program to talk about what really matters. ✨ The exit of the Matrix is this way, follow me.
Aug 13, 202042:25
S3 Episode 9: Honestly, It’s Your Birthday Bihhh! 🎉

S3 Episode 9: Honestly, It’s Your Birthday Bihhh! 🎉

So here we are! On July 2, 2019 I posted the very FIRST episode of this lovely here podcast, and my fellow humans, IT HAS BEEN A YEAR! 🎉 My little baby is growing up! *proud mom tears*. No, but “Honestly”...for me this podcast is the personification of how giving into your creative desires can change you for the better. It’s my life articulated, and I’m grateful to have shared that with you. ✨ To many more years of doing whatever tf I put my mind to! Let’s celebrate life, achieving goals, and working through life’s irritations with style and grace ✨
Jul 02, 202028:34
S3 Episode 8: Activist by DNA

S3 Episode 8: Activist by DNA

Many people have the option to move through life being complacent, neutral, and unaware of the many troubles that are the reality for so many. But as a black, bisexual, and quirky American-based woman, I cannot. Today’s episode is about navigating and finding meaning in a life where just being YOURSELF is deemed an issue, and how that personifies itself. Being born into adversity, I believe it is my job to not only be a voice of reason for people, but to inspire others to be actively a part of positive change as well. Let’s talk about it! ✨
Jun 17, 202036:57
S3 Episode 7: Unlock the Swag

S3 Episode 7: Unlock the Swag

I hope y’all are hungry, because today we feast! Today’s menu consists of juicy conversation about manifestation, women’s awakening in America & what that means, and different types of intellectual capabilities among various personality types ✨ I love a good variety 😩 soul food always hits the spot. Let’s get to it!
Jun 04, 202034:49
S3 Episode 6: Intentional Seconds

S3 Episode 6: Intentional Seconds

Whether it was a messy romance or an overdue friendship, most of us know what it’s like to experience the tail end of a relationship. As with life and new experiences, there will always be someone else that can fill some of those voids and begin creating a different story...but how can that really make you feel though? What’s left after it’s all said and done? Here are some helpful tips to ensure that the process of learning from the past and creating a more intentional version of yourself is more rewarding and enlightening. Enjoy!
May 22, 202042:27
S3 Episode 5: Blank Space

S3 Episode 5: Blank Space

Happy Quarantine World! I can assure you my schedule is all messed up too 🥴 — Today’s episode is about examining ourselves and our daily lives for the blank spaces, as well as figuring out what can be done to make sense of these seemingly “empty” moments. So sit back, relax, and let the self reflection commence!—(That’ll be the only thing commencing this season unfortunately lol. )
Apr 19, 202025:57
S3 Episode 4: What A Time...Pt. 2

S3 Episode 4: What A Time...Pt. 2

Sooooo what in the actual F—k?! Life is a lotta bit crazy right now and I feel like we are living in a real-life Black Mirror Episode. Between quarantines, shifting to 90% online interactions, and people acting ridiculously ALL DURING a presidential election year (can we say a focusing event af?!), everything is crazier than normal. Let’s talk about it! ✨
Mar 26, 202034:11
S3 Episode 3: Honestly, I’m irritated..but really I’m sad.

S3 Episode 3: Honestly, I’m irritated..but really I’m sad.

In celebration of International Women’s Day, Women’s History Month, and sisterly love 💕 here is a podcast with my one and only sister unveiling some of the real emotions that can become masked by some of the more common and vague explanations. Let’s get to it! Enlightened thinking awaits ✨
Mar 11, 202051:31
S3 Episode 2: Going the Distance

S3 Episode 2: Going the Distance

Today we’ll talk about traveling, experiencing new places, and my business & pleasure trip to Seattle✨ Come join the convo!
Feb 27, 202024:46
S3 Episode 1: All Black Everything

S3 Episode 1: All Black Everything

Hey Listeners! Season 3 is here and ready for YOU ✨ Let’s hop into the month of African American pride and love with some wholesome, rhythmic, and beautiful content that so accurately depicts the beautiful diversity within black people & their communities. Let’s celebrate! ✨
Feb 12, 202035:32
S2 Episode 18: What A Time...

S2 Episode 18: What A Time...

Welcome to the end of Season 2! ✨ Recently there has been such an abundance of surprising, random, and stunning events that it’s almost impossible to process that it’s actually happening all at once. In real life, no movie or fictional story. Fires are raging in Australia as our planet continues to grow its heat carrying capacity (no bueno), an epidemic is running rampant throughout other countries and now in America, and a beloved sports legend and his daughter tragically were in a fatal accident that left multiple families broken and asking ‘why’? Listen as I sort through my thoughts and feelings about it all. Because I mean honestly...it’s a lot.
Jan 30, 202035:23
S2 Episode 17: The Evolution of Mac Miller

S2 Episode 17: The Evolution of Mac Miller

With the recent celebration of life, as well as the untimely death, of the talented and swaggy Pittsburgh rapper and musician, I thought it would be great to look at his musical projects to analyze his growth and how his music at the time did or did not impact me. Enjoy! ✨
Jan 23, 202028:42
S2 Episode 16: Size Doesn’t Always Matter

S2 Episode 16: Size Doesn’t Always Matter

For a lot of things, size can determine how effective something will be. Take shoes and clothing for instance, these are just some of the things that have to be “correct” or “fit” a person in order to properly function. But what about when referring to a person, idea, or mission? Listen as I talk through how my perspective on who and what can make a difference changes as I mature and experience new things. Tune in!
Jan 16, 202019:15
S2 Episode 15: What’s On Your Mind?

S2 Episode 15: What’s On Your Mind?

Listen as I talk about some things that have been on my mind and some anticipations I have for my future...but what’s new? ✨
Jan 09, 202025:08
S2 Episode 14: New Year, A More Intentional Me

S2 Episode 14: New Year, A More Intentional Me

Happy New Year! ✨ As 2019 fades away and 2020 welcomes us with open arms, I feel mixed emotions thinking about no only what I’ve been through but also what I’ve learned this past year. Regardless, I am here and things still need to be done! ———Join me talking and thinking about how to be a little bit more intentional this upcoming year and always ✨
Jan 03, 202014:41
S2 Episode 13: Hopes and Dreams

S2 Episode 13: Hopes and Dreams

Listen as I talk about some recent inspirations I have for my present and future, alongside some aspirations I have for my life’s impact. Enjoy!
Dec 18, 201927:29
S2 Episode 12: Big Breaks, Big Plans

S2 Episode 12: Big Breaks, Big Plans

Concluding another semester of undergrad, I am so thankful for and awaiting a much needed break! Listen as I recap my semester, talk about some feelings, and just do what I do best—a whole lot of everything. Enjoy!
Dec 11, 201924:40
S2 Episode 11: Lessons The Hard Way

S2 Episode 11: Lessons The Hard Way

This year has been a very eventful, constantly changing, and emotional one for me personally. None the less I have adapted, evolved, and grown more than I thought I could in such a short period of time. Let’s celebrate! ✨
Dec 05, 201927:20
S2 Episode 10: Super Thankful, Hella Blessed

S2 Episode 10: Super Thankful, Hella Blessed

As Thanksgiving approaches, I just want to take a moment to share some things I’m thankful for. Let’s get to it! ✨ Caution: Extensive and thorough focus on blessings, optimism, and hope ahead ✨
Nov 27, 201923:44
November 14, 2019

November 14, 2019

Nov 14, 201900:54
S2 Episode 9: The Interior Design

S2 Episode 9: The Interior Design

So if you know me, you know I have a love and admiration for design and how that in turn impacts people and the environment. Just as important as it is to make sure the schemes and flow of habitable spaces are thought about, one must also know oneself and just how to precisely maximize our recognizable and hidden potential. Many things may work in one specific setting that can be absolutely detrimental in another, which can apply to people as well. Deep right? Let’s talk!
Nov 14, 201925:21
S2 Episode 8: What’s Really Scaring You?

S2 Episode 8: What’s Really Scaring You?

Fear is an emotion that has personified as the foundation of all hatred, prejudice, racism, and ignorance that has existed throughout history. On a smaller scale, fear can be crippling and drive us as humans to settle, contract ourselves, and not live in our true purpose. Take a listen of my perspective on fear and about some of the things that I struggle with, as well as some helpful tips to get past your own fears to reach your fullest potential!
Nov 07, 201942:45
S2 Episode 7: Tea and Topics

S2 Episode 7: Tea and Topics

On this episode, we’re just gonna talk about some current events, exciting entertainment news, and juicy topics about life that make me think and give me something to look forward to. Let’s get to it!
Oct 30, 201931:31
S2 Episode 6: Divine Purpose

S2 Episode 6: Divine Purpose

In this life, sometimes questions seem to outweigh the answers and everything gets a little too cloudy to clearly be deciphered. If you’re familiar with the Bible and its teachings, you know what God says about you and all of his creation, but sometimes our personal feelings and worldly views don’t always align. Listen as I vent about just some of the things that life has revealed to me, as well as what God has assured me of.
Oct 24, 201939:04
S2 Episode 5: It’s Just the Beginning

S2 Episode 5: It’s Just the Beginning

Listen as I talk about life experiences & new beginnings betwixt a slew of bangers, followed by some clever words of wisdom. Enjoy the madness!
Oct 16, 201933:20
S2 Episode 4: Barriers and Boundaries of the Physical and Mental

S2 Episode 4: Barriers and Boundaries of the Physical and Mental

Throughout history, the discovery of land has brought about many things—with geographic location, area constraints, wealth, and sustenance being some—and with these discoveries there have always been certain barriers or natural forces that come into play. These barriers and forces can begin to drastically change the culture of a species and heavily dictate what can happen in those areas . Similar to everyday life, many things can act as physical and mental barriers to and for our individual success, how we interact with others, and what we have access to. This theory personified even breaks down into literal changes of DNA. Sounds crazy right? Let me explain it to you.
Oct 02, 201935:52
S2 Episode 3: The Highs and Lows of the Love Woes

S2 Episode 3: The Highs and Lows of the Love Woes

Love has many meanings for me, all stemming from feeling a great responsibility to provide for, protect, and accommodate someone else. This sense of selflessness is something I associate with God and how He loves us and wants us to interact with one another. Unfortunately, this is rarely a reality and many issues arise from it. Another day, another life lesson. Listen as I talk about my journey to finding true love in all areas of my life, with my own self-love relationship taking precedence.
Sep 25, 201948:04
S2 Episode 2: Girl, That’s Random Af.

S2 Episode 2: Girl, That’s Random Af.

So you know how Wale had an album about nothing? Well...this is like my version of that, but without the features. Seriously though, listen as I talk about it all on this Wild Card Wednesday and prepare to hear about just SOME of the many random things that cross my mind daily. Try to keep up, ya girl is a trip! I’m an all-expense paid one though 😜✨
Sep 19, 201922:40
S2 Episode 1: The Tragedy of the Commons

S2 Episode 1: The Tragedy of the Commons

Welcome back listeners! To kick off Season Two of ‘Honestly, I’m irritated.’, we are going to look at a common phrase that’s meant to describe the depletion of unregulated natural resources, and from there reach out into our daily lives beginning to realize how sabotaging focusing only on one’s self-interests can be for society and the world around us. Is the “I have to do what’s best for me” mentality causing more harm than good? Are we obligated to consider other people and our environment in our decisions? Let’s talk about it! ✨
Sep 11, 201934:03
Episode 18: Simple and Sweet

Episode 18: Simple and Sweet

As I close out my FIRST, 18 episode season of my podcast—which is awesome!—I just wanted to briefly reminisce, talk about some upcoming discussion topics, and give some deets about episode dates! Thank you to all of my listeners, 200+ plays is a great starting point and I can’t wait to keep evolving and expanding in all aspects of my life. Until next time ✨ (next Wednesday to be exact!) 😉
Sep 06, 201905:37
Episode 17: Bey Day Celebra...tion 🎉

Episode 17: Bey Day Celebra...tion 🎉

Listen as I give homage and respect to Beyoncé and her creativity throughout her career and many different, yet iconic eras. I think I speak for a lot of people when I say that Beyoncé is amazing and I STAN! No but honestly, she’s a diva, an independent woman, and she’s been on for years now! With that being said, what better day to celebrate her other than on Bey Day eve?!...well I guess on Bey Day. Regardless, let’s eat cake! Get in formation and click on the Anchor link to tune in! ✨ Reminder: Music can only be heard through the Anchor app or shared link!
Sep 04, 201932:07
Episode 16: Sunglasses and Trees

Episode 16: Sunglasses and Trees

With illuminating events taking place in the world recently, ranging from the free Gem City Shine event hosted by Dave Chappelle in Dayton, Ohio in light of the recent mass shootings, to the intentional burning and deforestation in the Amazon, it’s safe to say that things have been heating up! Join me in conversation about what these things mean for us as a society and what people like you and I can do to make our own special impact in the world, alongside some of my favorite songs of course ✨ Come Listen!
Aug 29, 201937:19
Episode 15: Caution, Glow Up in Isle 23

Episode 15: Caution, Glow Up in Isle 23

Back like I never left, I’m here to discuss the topics of life, growth, and preparing for those next stages of self evolution. Whatever that means for you, it’s important to be as mentally and spiritually prepared for the self-improvements as you are to reap the benefits! Let’s get down to business about the nitty, gritty, and necessary steps needed to excel and bring about a better you and a better US ✨ Come get in on the convo!
Aug 27, 201929:41
Episode 14: Throwin’ it Bike Pt. 6: Anointed Memories

Episode 14: Throwin’ it Bike Pt. 6: Anointed Memories

Throwin’ it Bike Thursday’s are made specifically for reminiscing, reflecting, and really thanking God that I made it through all of the craziness over the years! Because listen, there has been some pure foolishness in this life of mine. Don’t believe me? Tune in and see for yourself! Also, music will always accompany my Thursday broadcasts that can only be heard through the Anchor shared link or app, so get ready to take an actual time lapse into my life and childhood via memories and some of my favorite songs that help me remember. Let’s have some fun!
Aug 15, 201930:22
Episode 13: Symbolism & Reassurance. What Does It All Mean?

Episode 13: Symbolism & Reassurance. What Does It All Mean?

The journey of life isn’t always—or better yet rarely is—direct or clear. Thankfully, one thing we can begin to make sense of is how we view our experiences and how we let these things enhance our perspectives, which ultimately create the individuals that we become. Crazy right? Take a listen about how I see things, you may just discover some similarities and encouragement ✨
Aug 13, 201931:38
Episode 12: Rediscovering the Magic: Black Women in the Past, Present, and Future

Episode 12: Rediscovering the Magic: Black Women in the Past, Present, and Future

Relax with me as I celebrate the beauty, brilliance, and resilience of the black woman. I will give a glimpse of just SOME of the many talents that have been contributed to this world by some lovely ladies, including fierce trail blazer Toni Morrison and author Linda Hollies. Prepare yourselves for music, nostalgia, and enlightenment ✨ The songs played in this episode can only be heard through the Anchor app or shared link! So click on that link and listen up!
Aug 08, 201922:47
Episode 11: The Land of the Free and The Home of the Cowardly.

Episode 11: The Land of the Free and The Home of the Cowardly.

This podcast is a direct response to the most recent mass shootings across the country, specifically referring to one occurring in my hometown of Dayton, Ohio, that are now too regular to be comfortable with. I will discuss some of the unfortunate realities that we face daily to hopefully begin igniting a fire in you all for positive change, reform, and flat out saying it like it is. Use your voice or have someone else’s speak for you. People have been talking , but here’s what I have to say.
Aug 06, 201938:05
Episode 10: Throwin’ it Bike Pt. 5: College Freshmore

Episode 10: Throwin’ it Bike Pt. 5: College Freshmore

Throwin’ it Bike Thursday’s are made specifically for reminiscing, reflecting, and really thanking God that I made it through all of the craziness over the years! Because listen, there has been some pure foolishness in this life of mine. Don’t believe me? Tune in and see for yourself! Also, music will always accompany my Thursday broadcasts that can only be heard through the Anchor shared link or app, so get ready to take an actual time lapse into my life and childhood via memories and some of my favorite songs that help me remember. Let’s have some fun!
Aug 01, 201924:01
Episode 9: It’s Not Them...It’s You.

Episode 9: It’s Not Them...It’s You.

Life doesn’t always make sense, and if you’re like me you tend to get lost in all the questions and thoughts. As us humans, or potential podcast-loving aliens, mature and grow, there are some pretty tough lessons you will have to learn along the way. What’s even more difficult is realizing that most of your issues and worries lead right back to you. Sucks right? Let’s talk about it.
Jul 31, 201936:16
Episode 8: Throwin’ It Bike Pt. 4: College Newbie

Episode 8: Throwin’ It Bike Pt. 4: College Newbie

Throwin’ it Bike Thursday’s are made specifically for reminiscing, reflecting, and really thanking God that I made it through all of the craziness over the years! Because listen, there has been some pure foolishness in this life of mine. Don’t believe me? Tune in and see for yourself! Also, music will always accompany my Thursday broadcasts that can only be heard through the Anchor shared link or app, so get ready to take an actual time lapse into my life and childhood via memories and some of my favorite songs that help me remember. Let’s have some fun!
Jul 25, 201937:32
Episode 7: A Look Into My Crazy, Dynamic, Sensual, Dramatic Mind

Episode 7: A Look Into My Crazy, Dynamic, Sensual, Dramatic Mind

Sit back, relax, and listen to my poetic foolishness! I have always been very in tune with my emotions and reaching into the great beyond of what if’s and what could be, but I may just be a little TOO dramatic for my own good. Take a listen and see what I mean!
Jul 23, 201929:10