Inspire. Create. Shine.

Imagine not knowing what to tell, when to tell and who to tell...

Listen in as debut author, Mrs. Freddie Rodgers Simmons (aka "Miss Freddie Mae") discusses her new children's book, "Lil Dal No Tattle-Telling," and its primary subject matter, which we all can relate to - bullying. This is one that all parents, guardians and adults need to hear - and remember, love is the answer.

For more on the host and her book, visit Melanie's website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

(Originally recorded on 12/22/23, Audio podcast airing on 12/27/23)

When it sinks in that your Creator deems you as royalty, as priceless, as an indispensable part of humanity; it will revolutionize your mindset, behavior and life as a whole. We kings, queens, princes, princesses, etc. are worthy of royal treatment and won't mind giving the same to everyone we meet, knowing they too are one of God's own. Listen in as Melanie breaks down "the value of one," from the divine perspective.

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

FROM THE ARCHIVES: Originally recorded on 5/5/21, Audio podcast re-airing on 7/28/23.

Disney's 2023 remake of "The Little Mermaid," among other things, reminds us that it's okay to keep that childlike wonder, to be willing to explore, and to desire more out of life and love - even when it's uncomfortable, difficult or misunderstood by others. Listen in as Melanie shares her take on this beloved classic and why it's still making waves today.

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Audio podcast airing on 6/29/23.

If you aren't speaking the (love) language of your loved ones, there's gonna be a disconnect somewhere along the line.

Dr. Gary Chapman's international best-selling book, "The 5 Love Languages" has positively transformed the way many think and interact in their relationships for over 30 years. Listen in as Melanie shares insight on the topic, as well as new love languages which reflect the changing social times we live in.

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Audio podcast airing on 5/31/23.

The stories we see in film color the hearts, minds, and perceptions of people and cultures in our society. Food for thought: What's your favorite love story in film and why?

Listen in as Melanie gives her take on a must-see period film for the romantics out there, "Sylvie's Love," a sweeping Black love story that stands out amidst the stereotypical and often negatively depicted stories like it. A reminder of why we need more positive Black love representation in film to help change the narrative.

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

From The Archives - Audio podcast airing on 4/30/23.

When art becomes light, it stirs the soul and lifts the spirit.

Listen in as Melanie gives her take on the must-see Academy Award-winning documentary, "Summer of Soul," which features hidden gems of Black history, culture and music from the Harlem Culture Festival -- and shares reminiscent moments from her own life.

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 2/21/23, Audio podcast airing on 3/29/23.

As we reflect on those whose stories and work have impacted our lives this Black History Month, think about this: Your story was written before the foundation of the world. Psalm 139 speaks of the book of your life that was written, the days of your life fashioned before your days on earth began, all leading toward the destiny already ordained for you. 

Listen in on this Black History segment as Melanie highlights Tyler Perry and gives a word of encouragement to the dreamers out there.

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 2/17/22, Audio podcast airing on 2/26/22.

The journey to pursuing our dreams can be an interesting one, to say the least. How important are dreams and goals to you vs. living your reality?

Listen in as Melanie gives a word of encouragement to the dreamers out there, while sharing a few nuggets from some of the greats who touched on the topic of dreams and their pursuit.

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 1/27/22, Audio podcast airing on 1/31/22.

Growth takes time, water, light, and love primarily - and we grow through everything we go through. 

Listen in as Melanie shares a little of her journey, which may encourage you daily to bloom where you're planted and resist the push/things that take you outside of your character, your capacity, and your calling.

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 12/13/22, Audio podcast airing on 12/30/22.

Some of the most trying or tragic times in our lives can be great catalysts for self-discovery and discovering/fulfilling purpose; developing us into stronger, wiser and more empathetic people; and creating the necessary momentum to bring about great movements for the betterment of society. Love can have the same effect.

Listen in as Melanie gives her take on two powerful, must-see films she just happened to see around the same time and noticed similar themes/connections, as well as significant contrasts, between them - the critically-acclaimed sequel to the "Black Panther," "Wakanda Forever," and "Till," based on the life and tragic death of Emmett Till.

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 11/23/22, Audio podcast airing on 11/30/22.

In all your getting, get an understanding... Further insight into who you are and why you do what you do may be found in your roots.

Melanie continues to reflect on the critically acclaimed "Roots" miniseries/sequels chronicling the life and heritage of legendary writer, Alex Haley - and how it relates to us today. Listen in on this episode as she shares a bit more about her personal discoveries into her family tree and why you should make the connection to yours.

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 8/23/22, Audio podcast airing on 8/31/22.

We are what our communities are made of - the branches, the limbs, the fruit - and it all starts with our family tree roots. 

Listen in as Melanie discusses the part we all should play in building community and shaping our world, as she continues to reflect on the critically acclaimed "Roots" miniseries/sequels chronicling the life and heritage of legendary writer, Alex Haley - and how it relates to us today.

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 7/26/22, Audio podcast airing on 8/24/22.

It's important to know where we come from in order to know who we are and where we are going.

Listen in as Melanie shares her perspective and touches on the critically acclaimed "Roots" miniseries/sequels chronicling the life and heritage of legendary writer, Alex Haley - and how it relates to us today.

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 6/24/22, Audio podcast airing on 7/1/22.

Good times usually outweigh the bad, but have you ever wondered why bad things sometimes happen to God's people? 

Listen in as Melanie gives her take on "The Shack," the best-selling yet controversial book by acclaimed author, William Paul Young, and the film the book was derived from - which delves into the subject. 

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 5/3/22, Audio podcast airing on 5/19/22.

Take the 2022 Black History Month challenge and help us spread black positivity, black love, and black inspiration every day, all month long. Listen in for the details on how you can be a part. #spreadthelove #blackhistory2022 #blacksuccess #blacklove #blackculture #blackfacts #blackownedbusiness #blackisbeautiful 

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 2/1/22, Audio podcast airing on 2/1/22.

At the close of yet another year, it's often the new Year we look forward to. But this quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson challenges us to think in even simpler terms and celebrate every Day as it comes. Listen in for a little tidbit from Melanie on why TODAY is a gift!

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 12/31/21, Audio podcast airing on 12/31/21.

Even if you gotta kneel sometimes, stand your ground...

Life is a journey of discovery - of self, of God and others - and we never stop learning or evolving. But being true to ourselves is one thing that will make the journey truly worthwhile and serve as a testament to who we truly are and what we believe in. Listen in as Melanie highlights the new Netflix limited series on the life of Colin Kaepernick through his eyes, as well as shares a few insightful gems from Vincent Van Gogh and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. that will surely inspire and uplift you.

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 11/19/21, Audio podcast airing on 11/24/21.

Sight, sound, taste, touch, smell... what can you sense beyond your 5 senses? 

Without sight or sound, and a rough start, Helen Keller lived a remarkable life and accomplished great things. Without sound, Beethoven composed some of the greatest musical works of our time. Mozart became a skilled musician/musical composer beginning at the young age of 4... Listen in as Melanie touches on Keller's life, her portrayal in the film "Miracle Worker," and gives food for thought on the amazing capacity of the mind, heart, and spirit.

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 10/19/21, Audio podcast airing on 10/30/21.

From poetry by the legendary Maya Angelou to films like Brown Sugar and Love Beats Rhymes to hip-hop and other genres of music by great musicians; the spoken word, no doubt, is definitely an art form to be appreciated. Listen in as Melanie reminisces on her early days being introduced to the arts, and as she highlights a film that celebrates both the poetry and hip-hop genres.

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 9/19/21, Audio podcast airing on 10/13/21.

When it comes to life, love, career, everyday decisions, etc... Do you believe in "following your heart"? What does that mean to you exactly? It is said that "where the treasure is, there the heart is also." Listen in as Melanie reviews the international best-selling book (and soon-to-be film) by author Paulo Coelho, exploring the concept, and the effect it could have on your journey through life.

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 9/13/21, Audio podcast airing on 9/24/21.

What is more important than love in achieving success in your relationships? Listen in as Melanie shares insight from relationship experts on the thought-provoking topic, and how it all ties into another popular teaching by bestselling authors Gary Chapman (the 5 love languages) and Steve Covey. 

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 9/11/21, Audio podcast airing on 9/13/21.

Jane Austen's character, Darcy, echoing the brilliant mind of Shakespeare, refers to poetry as "the food of love" in the classic book/film, "Pride and Prejudice." Some words are so delightful, so delectable, that they enrapture the senses and captivate the heart - and what better medium than poetry to do so. Listen in as Melanie gives her commentary on 9 beautiful verses from an epic work by the poet Atticus. Which is your favorite?

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 7/31/21, Audio podcast airing on 8/2/21.

Episode Description:

Meet Shanaye and Peter McPherson, a young newlywed couple. Listen in as they share their love story and the impact God's love and their relationship with God have had on them and contributed to the success of their relationship, leading up to marriage. Inspiration and encouragement to anyone currently dating, looking for Mr. or Mrs. Right, or unsure about getting married at a young age in today's society.

You can view the video version of this podcast on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pd4xFvkj2Lo

Originally recorded on 7/10/21, Audio podcast airing on 7/14/21.

Listen in as Melanie shares 13 powerful scriptures about God's love. These, among others, are His love letters to you and me. Which of these scriptures is your favorite? Which scripture do you most relate to? Please share this episode to help our mission and give a dose of inspiration and encouragement to someone who might need it.   

You can view the video version of this podcast on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P-wNCPUnX-E

To purchase Melanie's book, "Love Check" and other "Love Check" merchandise, please visit: http://www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com. If you'd like to share your story on the positive impact God's love has had on your life and/or be featured on Melanie's podcast, go to http://www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com and leave Melanie a message.  

Originally recorded on 9/25/18, Audio podcast airing on 7/13/21.

Get your dose of inspiration... Listen in as Melanie shares a little wisdom and the testimony of a woman who endured major hardships and setbacks at a very young age, but still managed to build an empire on the other side. This is a reminder to never let circumstances, negativity, or naysayers limit you. There is light at the end of your tunnel.

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 5/16/21, Audio podcast airing on 5/23/21.

When it sinks in that your Creator deems you as royalty, as priceless, as an indispensable part of humanity; it will revolutionize your mindset, behavior and life as a whole. We kings, queens, princes, princesses, etc. are worthy of royal treatment and won't mind giving the same to everyone we meet, knowing they too are one of God's own. Listen in as Melanie breaks down "the value of one," from the divine perspective.

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 5/5/21, Audio podcast airing on 5/11/21.

There are defining moments in life - a meeting, encounter, event, or a series of things - that can make an indelible mark on us, greatly impact us and challenge us to do and become more. Debut director Regina King bursts on the scene with this powerful message, delivered through the lives of 4 notable African Americans, in her now-streaming Amazon Original film, "One Night in Miami." Listen in as Melanie gives her take on the film, as well as shares a few more inspirational highlights from the life of Malcolm X as discovered in "The Autobiography of Malcolm X."

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 4/16/21, Audio podcast airing on 4/23/21.

One of the more weighty characteristics of love is that it's sacrificial... Listen in as Melanie recounts her first take on a couple of films that have become mainstays in her family and are of particular importance during the Easter holiday - and hear another small excerpt from her book.

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 3/31/21, Audio podcast airing on 4/3/21.

Melanie gives a brief window into the life of Malcolm X - as told in the bestseller, "The Autobiography of Malcolm X," and in comparison to the critically acclaimed film starring Denzel Washington, "Malcolm X." Malcolm is a prime example of evolution, how our beginnings don't always determine our endings, and how people, places and things that leave indelible marks on our lives change us... Listen in.

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 3/19/21, Audio podcast airing on 3/26/21.

Food for thought: What are the baggage and weights in your life that could be holding you back and stopping you from soaring? These quotes from literature by acclaimed author Toni Morrison may lead you to evaluate the people, circumstances, and things in your life... Listen in.

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 3/12/21, Audio podcast airing on 3/19/21.

What's the "Inspire.Create.Shine." podcast and theme all about? If you've ever wondered why Melanie does what she does, what her primary podcast and life mission is, and what drives her, listen in. And then think about it: What's your why?

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 3/16/21, Audio podcast airing on 3/19/21.

Melanie touches on one aspect of Oprah's March 7th interview with Prince Harry & Meghan Markle and the surprising behind-the-scenes lifestyle this lovely couple endured under the British monarchy. They described the downside to being in their shoes ("The Little Mermaid" complex) and how their love and determination brought them to a newfound freedom they enjoy. Listen in.

For more info on Melanie D, the Author, and to hear other love stories and inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

Originally recorded on 3/7/21, Audio podcast airing on 3/8/21.

It's a competitive world out there, so who's your competition? Melanie offers a little window into her early days and her academic woes/(wows), in light of Marianne Williamson's and Erma Bombeck's powerful truths on tapping into the power within. Listen in.

Learn more about Melanie D, The Author at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

(Originally recorded on 2/22/21, Audio podcast airing on 3/1/21)

Melanie touches briefly on Tyson's final memoir, "Just As I Am," and also offers her own personal thoughts on the deficiency and negativity of how Black love is often depicted in cinema and television - and the artistry that changes that narrative. Listen in.

Learn more about Melanie D, The Author at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

(Originally recorded on 2/23/21, Audio podcast airing on 2/26/21)

The heart wants what it wants, but God knows what you truly need. Listen in as Machelle Terry-Courtney shares her dramatic journey to Mr. Right, with the plot twist she wasn't expecting. Her testimony is another reminder of the healing and redemptive power of God's love. 

Valentine's Edition. For singles and couples.

For more on the author and the book, visit Melanie's website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.

(Originally recorded on 2/5/21, Audio podcast aired on 2/12/21)

FROM THE ARCHIVES:

Questions were submitted prior to Melanie's virtual book launch (that occurred on December 13, 2020), which she promised to answer at a later date if all questions weren't addressed during the actual event. These are those questions that didn't get answered. Listen in...

For more on the author and the book, visit Melanie's website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com

Recorded on 1/14/2021, Aired on 2/3/21