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Heart to Heart: The Lived Experiences of Two Young Black Women

Heart to Heart: The Lived Experiences of Two Young Black Women

By Brea Watkins

On this podcast, Brea and Kim discuss the adventures of two black girls navigating the world around them. Join them every Sunday for meaningful musings about college life and current events!

Follow the girls on instagram for more content @heart2heartpodcast
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End of the Semester Lessons (Part 1)

Heart to Heart: The Lived Experiences of Two Young Black Women May 01, 2022

00:00
38:15
End of the Semester Lessons (Part 1)

End of the Semester Lessons (Part 1)

In today’s episode, Brea and Kim share some of their most important lessons from their undergraduate experience. With just a few weeks left until graduation, they discuss some of the major challenges they faced and how they overcame them. Additionally, they open up about the truth of finding friends and community. This episode is one for the books. Listen for a great and raw conversation. For more follow Brea and Kim on Instagram @heart2heartpodcast
May 01, 202238:15
The Price of Pressure: How Grief, Talent & Expectations Push You Forward

The Price of Pressure: How Grief, Talent & Expectations Push You Forward

In today’s episode, Brea and Kim use some of our favorite and most well known Black celebrities as lessons of “the price of pressure.” The girls talks about how unhealthy some of our biggest motivations can be, and what determines whether you crumble under pressure or become great. How have grief, poverty, and sheer talent been motivating factors for celebrities and in each of our own lives? Listen for a great and raw conversation. For more follow Brea and Kim on Instagram @heart2heartpodcast
Apr 03, 202239:45
The Male Gaze: How Women Have Become Each Other’s Worst Critics

The Male Gaze: How Women Have Become Each Other’s Worst Critics

In todays episode, Brea and Kim get into the male gaze and the effect is has on women who are just trying to live authentically. In addition, the girls talk about how the prison of the male gaze has made women some of the most strict police in the system, keeping others down by judging and hating. In a world where everything is judged, how can we overcome systemic sexism and reclaim our individuality and power as women? To engage the conversation, follow the girls @hearttoheartpodcast on Instagram. Links to sources from episode: https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-the-male-gaze-5118422 & https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Male_gaze
Mar 29, 202233:25
Where We’ve Been, Growing Pains + Post-Grad Plans

Where We’ve Been, Growing Pains + Post-Grad Plans

In today’s episode, Brea and Kim make a return to the podcast with updates about their life, lessons they’ve learned over the past few months, and their post grad plans. They discuss the importance of dealing with growing pains and how they’re managing the final few months of their Ivy League experience. They also provide uplifting advice and support for anyone feeling particularly burnt out or uncertain right now.

Follow the girls on Instagram @heart2heartpodcast
Mar 20, 202233:56
Chicken Noodle Soup for the Graduating Black Woman ft. Annie Blay

Chicken Noodle Soup for the Graduating Black Woman ft. Annie Blay

In today’s episode, Brea and Kim sit down and chat with Annie Blay, Associate Beauty Editor of The Zoe Report. They discuss Annie’s journey into the beauty journalism and her past experiences working with Bustle, Elle, and other publications. Annie also shares how she navigates post grad life and all the difficulties that come with that increased independency. You won’t want to miss this raw and real interview.

Follow the girls on Instagram @heart2heartpodcast
Dec 05, 202138:17
What We’ve Learned: Our Takeaways from (literal) Trials + Tribulations

What We’ve Learned: Our Takeaways from (literal) Trials + Tribulations

In today’s episode, Brea and Kim discuss some trials and tribulations; trials, meaning the most recent depressing verdict our society has witnessed, and tribulations, meaning the painful experiences the girls have had in their interpersonal relationships. This is one of the girls’ most open and honest conversations on white supremacy and setting boundaries. Take what you need from this episode and send it to someone who needs to hear it.
For more, follow the girls on Instagram @heart2heartpodcast
Nov 21, 202135:28
Navigating YouTube Fame, Identity, and Self-Love: A Conversation with Kaiti Yoo

Navigating YouTube Fame, Identity, and Self-Love: A Conversation with Kaiti Yoo

In today’s episode, Brea and Kim have Kaiti Yoo, a successful YouTube content creator and Ivy League student, on to discuss how Kaiti navigates having a large internet presence. Kaiti shares her rise to fame and how she manages to hold space for herself even when sharing her life so publicly. Brea and Kim also ask Kaiti about how her identity as a Korean American woman impacts the work she does. This honest and fun conversation is not one you’ll want to miss.

Subscribe to Kaiti on YouTube (Kaiti Yoo) and follow her on Instagram (@kayteeyou)
Follow the girls on Instagram @heart2heartpodcast
Nov 14, 202132:50
Fleeting Body Standards: Analyzing the BBL Epidemic

Fleeting Body Standards: Analyzing the BBL Epidemic

In today’s episode, Brea and Kim discuss the dangers and consequences of the BBL epidemic. Specifically, they share how this trend has impacted Black and Brown women.
Further, Brea and Kim talk about the economic forces driving the spike in BBL procedures and who is profiting off of this dangerous operation.

Follow the girls on Instagram @heart2heartpodcast
Oct 31, 202128:10
why does trauma make us feel so dirty??
Oct 24, 202127:15
To Be Black Female Athletes in the Ivy League ft Arielle Desir and Sydney Scott

To Be Black Female Athletes in the Ivy League ft Arielle Desir and Sydney Scott

In today’s episode, Brea and Kim have Arielle Desir and Sydney Scott on the podcast to discuss their experiences as Black female athletes in the Ivy League. They share stories about how they manage their mental health and how their athletic experience has changed from high school until now. Additionally, they share their honest opinions about being athletes at Brown and how they have managed that experience. You do not want to miss this episode.

Follow the girls on Instagram @heart2heartpodcast
Oct 17, 202137:27
Capitalism Does Not Want You to Choose Yourself: Learning from Simone Biles

Capitalism Does Not Want You to Choose Yourself: Learning from Simone Biles

In today’s episode, Kim and Brea discuss the perils of pushing yourself too far and how celebrity athletes such as Simone Biles and Naomi Osaka are paving the way for Black women to reclaim their time. The girls discuss how rest is radical under capitalism and how they are implementing that idea in their own lives. Follow the girls on Instagram @heart2heartpodcast
Oct 03, 202126:03
Standing On Your Own Two Feet: Learning How to Be Alone
Sep 12, 202122:40
Digital Blackface and Hoodfishing; How Blackness has Become Internet Currency

Digital Blackface and Hoodfishing; How Blackness has Become Internet Currency

In today’s episode, Brea and Kim dive deep into how Blackness has become inextricably linked with popular culture, and how this accessibility is modern day minstrelsy. Tune in to hear the girls’ thoughts on widespread use of AAVE and the eagerness of many Black Internet users to invite non-Black people to the “cook out.” For more content, follow the girls on Instagram at @heart2heartpodcast
Sep 05, 202129:15
Celebrities Are Integral to Maintaining White Supremacy
Aug 29, 202135:02
life updates + our COVID confessions

life updates + our COVID confessions

Welcome back listeners! Brea and Kim are so happy to be back for the fourth season of Heart to Heart Podcast. In today’s episode, join the girls as they talk about the future in a world with so much uncertainty. As both girls are entering their senior years at Ivy League colleges, they discuss the existential crises, fears and hypocrisy that come with being a young person during a pandemic.

For more content and updates, follow the girls @heart2heartpodcast on instagram.
Aug 22, 202136:50
Grief, Healing and Community: Commemorating the Life of Samuel C. Watkins (Brea’s Father)

Grief, Healing and Community: Commemorating the Life of Samuel C. Watkins (Brea’s Father)

In today's episode, Brea and Kim reflect and commemorate the life of Brea’s father, Samuel C. Watkins. They speak about his humble upbringings, profound impact on the Black community , and the ways he has personally changed their lives. They discuss the non-linear journey of healing and the importance of a strong community during this time. Through tears and laughter, Brea and Kim celebrate and memorialize an incomparable leader and father.

Thank you to all who have extended patience and support these past few months. Your love and care will never be forgotten.
Jun 20, 202133:51
a conversation about Misogynoir in Rap with Taylor Miree
Mar 28, 202140:51
overcoming imposter syndrome + other obstacles at Wharton ft. Chandani Battle

overcoming imposter syndrome + other obstacles at Wharton ft. Chandani Battle

In today's episode, Brea and Kim are joined by Chandani Battle, a junior at Penn's Wharton School. Chandani dives deep into her journey as she describes her experiences as a first generation student dealing with imposter syndrome and adapting a new culture and environment. She talks about grappling with her identity as a Black and Indian American and what it means to succeed.
follow us on @heart2heartpodcast on ig and @heart2heartpod1 on twitter
Mar 21, 202121:35
Black Boy Out of Time: A Conversation with Hari Ziyad

Black Boy Out of Time: A Conversation with Hari Ziyad

In today’s episode, Brea and Kim sit down with author Hari Ziyad to discuss their memoir, Black Boy Out of Time. In this book, Ziyad explores the primary question: “who can really protect Black children in an anti-Black world?” Brea and Kim ask Ziyad about their motivations for writing the book and explore how policing and other carceral logics have been harmful to Black children, particularly Black queer youth. You don’t want to miss this episode!

Be sure to pick up a copy of Black Boy Out of Time today.

Mar 14, 202140:41
P*dophilia & Race: a conversation about what’s happening to Black girls

P*dophilia & Race: a conversation about what’s happening to Black girls

In today’s episode, Brea and Kim discuss the normalization of pedophilia and how it specifically affects Black girls. They discuss shocking data and stories that show how severely Black girls are harmed by pedophilia and what this means for the future. Additionally, the girls engage in conversation about the “double bind” Black women and girls face.

Be sure to follow the girls on ig @heart2heartpod and on twitter @heart2heartpod1
Mar 07, 202129:19
how pedophilia has infiltrated our beauty standards

how pedophilia has infiltrated our beauty standards

TRIGGER WARNING: this episode talks about themes of pedophilia and sexual assault.

in today's episode, Brea and Kim are back with their second episode of their miniseries on sexual liberation. the girls discuss how beauty standards are shaped by a pressure to be youthful, and there has been a normalization of relationships between older men and younger women. can sexual liberation truly exist if women are stifled by these predatory standards?
follow on ig: @heart2heartpodcast
and twitter: @heart2heartpod1 to join the conversation!
Feb 28, 202123:04
does sexual liberation exist for Black women?

does sexual liberation exist for Black women?

In today’s episode, Brea and Kim begin the first episode in their short series about Black womanhood. They explore the question, “does sexual liberation exist for Black women?” They share recent events of famous Black celebrities, such as Chloe Bailey, experiencing backlash and ridicule. Additionally, they discuss the limitations Black women face in their attempts to achieve sexual liberation.

Be sure to follow the girls on ig @heart2heartpod and on twitter @heart2heartpod1
Feb 21, 202128:35
unpacking the “good guy” narrative

unpacking the “good guy” narrative

welcome back to another season of heart to heart podcast! brea and kim dive right into a topic that's been on their minds for a while. in this valentine's day season premiere, brea and kim talk about what it actually takes to be a good guy who protects black women, and how many men who claim to support black women fall abysmally short. tune in weekly for more episodes just like this.

follow the girls on ig @heart2heartpod and on twitter @heart2heartpod1
Feb 14, 202127:30
Season 2 Finale: Our Reflections
Dec 13, 202026:46
How Do We Hold Influencers Accountable? (A Conversation with Katy Bellote)

How Do We Hold Influencers Accountable? (A Conversation with Katy Bellote)

In this episode, Brea and Kim have an informative conversation with YouTuber, social media influencer and graphic designer, Katy Bellote. Brea and Kim ask important questions pertaining to social responsibility and using large social media followings for the greater good. Katy also speaks on her own experiences with being held accountable as an influencer, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dec 06, 202034:06
why Brea won’t visit Kim at Brown again (story time) + exciting announcement
Nov 22, 202019:08
what does this election mean for our future?
Nov 15, 202025:52
what role do colleges and universities play in politics and the election?
Nov 01, 202035:53
are radical politics mainstream or are we just in a Gen Z Twitter bubble?
Oct 25, 202034:42
is the decentralization of the Black Lives Matter Movement working?
Oct 18, 202039:15
why is there so much conflict surrounding voting?
Oct 11, 202028:07
season finale: reflections on season one

season finale: reflections on season one

In the season finale, Brea and Kim have a heartfelt “see you later.” They wrap up season one with their reflections and talk all about what’s to come in season two. The girls want to thank you from the bottom of their hearts for the continued support and cannot wait to produce more content. During the hiatus, please follow heart2heartpodcast on Instagram for updates and content. With love, Brea and Kim 🤍
Sep 13, 202029:24
how we prioritize black joy + self care & podcast updates!

how we prioritize black joy + self care & podcast updates!

In this episode, Brea and Kim talk about how important it is to see images of black joy, and create them in their own lives. They each give their top 3 things that help keep them sane in this crazy world. They also talk about the future of the podcast and discuss some exciting upcoming changes! Follow on instagram@ heart2heartpodcast for more updates and content.
Sep 06, 202028:43
the untold truth abt college: making the most out of the college experience

the untold truth abt college: making the most out of the college experience

In this episode, Brea and Kim conclude their mini series on their college experiences. They talk about choosing their majors and taking advantage of various opportunities available at their schools. The girls discuss their journey of feeling comfortable at these institutions and walking in their paths. Enjoy the episode! Follow us on ig @ heart2heartpodcast.
Aug 30, 202032:59
the untold truth about college ep 2: the highs and lows of our freshman year

the untold truth about college ep 2: the highs and lows of our freshman year

In today’s episode, Brea and Kim dive into their freshman year! They reveal the highs and lows of their freshman year interpersonal relationships and the experience of being black women at PWIs. Subscribe and Follow the podcast so you don’t miss the next and final episode of the series. Follow us on ig @heart2heartpodcast
Aug 23, 202027:30
the untold truth abt college ep 1: our application process + backlash we faced

the untold truth abt college ep 1: our application process + backlash we faced

In this episode, Brea and Kim kickoff their college mini series, where they are bringing you the truth about what it was like applying to college and dealing with negative reactions from their peers. They provide personal anecdotes about the hurdles they had to overcome as young black women and how it felt to be doubted. Enjoy the episode and stay tuned for episode 2! Follow us on ig @heart2heartpodcast for updates and more content.
Aug 16, 202033:19
a deep dive into colorism on campus + beyond

a deep dive into colorism on campus + beyond

In today’s episode, Brea and Kim and are back with a second episode on colorism. This time, they discuss more personal experiences with colorism on campus, including the role black men play in perpetuating colorism. They also have a very special woman of the week. Follow the pod on ig @ heart2heartpodcast. Thank you for listening!
Aug 09, 202034:38
colorism: a real + necessary chat ft. Zoe Jimenez
Jul 26, 202031:33
calling all influencers and celebs: get right, or get LEFT

calling all influencers and celebs: get right, or get LEFT

In this episode, Brea and Kim have a passionate discussion about accountability v. cancel culture. They charge their favorite influencers and celebrities with a call to action to be open to learn and take accountability for their actions. This episode is not an attack on anyone, but rather a necessary discussion laying out things Brea and Kim take issue with as viewers and followers of many people. Continue the discussion on the official Instagram @heart2heartpodcast and share your thoughts!
Jul 19, 202035:42
a tale of two summers: how privilege affects your quarantine
Jul 12, 202029:05
why aren’t black women included in your feminism?

why aren’t black women included in your feminism?

In today’s episode, Brea and Kim talk about the importance of intersectional feminism and share raw stories of feeling left out from white spaces. Petitions: change.org/p/the-people-free-chrystul-kizer & change.org/p/drop-all-charges-against-incarcerated-trafficking-survivor-chrystul-kizer
Jul 05, 202026:02
dealing with expectation, insecurity, and comparison as black girls

dealing with expectation, insecurity, and comparison as black girls

In today’s episode, Brea and Kim explore three stories that portray the unwanted expectations placed on them as black girls. They discuss how people’s comments and projections have made them feel, as well as how they’ve overcome these expectations. Enjoy the episode and don’t forget to rate and subscribe to the podcast for more! Feel free to follow the girls on Instagram @heart2heartpodcast.
Jun 27, 202029:36
welcome to the podcast! + how to talk to your black friends abt BLM
Jun 20, 202028:58