I Failed...

Whew!! It was on my heart to do this impromptu podcast about my personal burnout.

Usually, when we experience something, someone else may have a similar experience. 

So this one is for all of my people who are feeling burned out and experiencing self-awareness. 

Thank you for listening!

If you've ever been in a dating relationship and/or marriage that ended, you've had a reflection moment afterward. 

You're trying to figure out what went wrong. Was it you? Was it them? How could have things been redirected away from a breakup? Most of us never realize that our upbringing usually plays a part in how we date. 

Today's guests, Rickey and Shalonda Schoonmaker share their moments of clarity after breakups and divorces. 

Origins: Detroit, Michigan

Expertise: Logistics, Non-Profit, and Business Management

Is it okay to "just in case" your marriage if things don't work out? Should you have a person of interest on standby should your marriage go left?   

While some of us think that this is crazy, it's very real for a lot of people. The "backup plan" has some people in divorce court or annulment highway. Ty and Tera share their wisdom about the matter.    

Origins: The Virgin Islands and Florida 

Expertise: Risk Management and Product Development

Commitment can be a forbidden word to some, while others crawl under their beds to hide from the challenge. But do we make commitment harder than it is? 

Today's guests, Joshua & Tasha Ikegulu, share how they are consciously working through commitment.  

Origins: Nigeria and New Orleans, Louisiana 

Expertise: Oil Industry and Psychology

Keep the connections. Long Distance Friendships can be hard but they are rewarding when everyone can work together.

Even in your waiting, make sure that you date yourself ALWAYS!

In case you're Single and tired, DON'T GIVE UP. 

Rhuneisha speaks about her experience and why it's important to keep going. 

When we think of friendships, we think of those who have been closest to us for a long time. We think of those that we can confide in, laugh, cry with, and share life with. BUT! We never consider being a friend to ourselves. In order to be a friend, you have to show yourself friendly even to thine own self. 

Today's guest, Dr. Heather James, shares the importance of befriending yourself and taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional health. 

Origin: Lansing, Michigan

Expertise: Medical Doctor, Mental Health, Physical Health, Holistic Health

Your sound decision to move away from the place and people that you've every known can be rewarding and heartbreaking all at once. 

While others are celebrating your bravery to move on, others are devastated and feeling betrayed. But for the friends who are cheering for you, you find a way to stay connected. Sometimes it's hard, but you're intentional about nourishing those friendships. 

Today's guest, Charlene, shares her story and experience of friendship, long-distance. 

The dating world has changed drastically and some are giving up on the idea of ever walking down the aisle.   But some are holding onto their faith no matter how grim the dating world can be.   

Frank and Rhuneisha share their personal journeys of singleness, waiting, and meeting each other.   

• Origin: Harlem, NY and Ocala, Florida  
• Expertise: Photography and Travel  
• Social Media: @lifewithrhu and @frankr

Ahhh. The Workplace. 

A place where most of us spend most of our time. And during that time, we eventually become closer to those that we work with because they're the ones who see us the most.   But is friendship always a good thing in the workplace? Or should you just keep it professional?   Natasha shares her wisdom about Friendship in the Workplace.   

Origin: Savannah, Georgia 

Expertise: Cosmetology & Nutrition 

Social Media: @NatashaP

Have you thought about being married? If so, what makes you hopeful about it? And how bad do you want to be married?  The thought of marriage can make us all re-evaluate our "why." 

Today's guests, Tyrone and Samantha, share their journey to marriage and why it can work.   

Origin: Miami, Florida 

Expertise: Insurance and Social Media Management 

Social Media: @sam_socialsolutions & @tyroneharrell

Church... the place where a lot of us learn about God and how to live. But what happens when friendship expands beyond fellowship in the sanctuary?   While many are leaving churches because of church hurt, some are leaving because of torn friendships.   Today's guest, Leah Huggins, shares her friendship and church journey with us.   

Origin: Charleston, South Carolina 

Expertise: Non-Profit Grant Writing and Author 

Social Media: @Transformingyourheart

The world of marriage has evolved from women being "just" homemakers. 

More and more married couples are understanding how important it is to be a team and not a "one-man" show. 

PJ & Taylor share their thoughts about Marriage and Gender Roles.

Friendships tend to evolve as much as we do. However, sometimes, it doesn't work out that way. So what do you do when you're growing but your friendship isn't? Do you move on or try to find a resolution?

Do you believe that friendships are taken for granted?

We all have pre-conceived thoughts about what marriage is to us. And while it's not a bad thing, sometimes explaining your point of view can be complicated. 

You gotta make sure that you and your partner can agree on what marriage looks like to you as a union. 

Today's guest, Paul and Taylor Howard, shares their thoughts and experiences before marriage.

Guest's Origin: Oakland, California and UK
Expertise: Computer Analyst and Politics

Friendships tend to evolve as much as we do. However, sometimes, it doesn't work out that way. So what do you do when you're growing but your friendship isn't? Do you move on or try to find a resolution?   

Today's guest, Starlis (Star) Blaise, shares her moments of outgrowing friendships.   

• Guest's Origin: Decatur, Georgia 
• Expertise: Multi-preneur  
• Social Media: @star_blaise

I FAILED PODCAST FAMILY!!!!!

I am so excited to be back with you all!! I am astounded by your continuous support for this podcast even though we took a break. 

A lot has happened but nevertheless, we are here!!! We've gotten your questions, comments, concerns, and love with much appreciation. 

If you aren't following us on Facebook and Instagram, please do so @wisdom_by_30 and @ifailedpodcast.

Insure this! Insure that! You need coverage! 

When we buy a home, a car, or rent an apartment, we are told to get them insured. And out of habit, we do so not really understanding the "why" and what we are covering. Today, we are breaking it all the way down. 

Today's guest shares her wisdom and personal experience when it comes to property insurance. 

West Coast girl with sweet, Southern hospitality, Antoinette Sims, is an Insurance Agent who diligently assists hundreds of families protect their assets. Connect with Antoinette on Instagram @antoinetteleann. 

It's all about SKIN today! 

Like you, I have struggled and failed in this area. 

"Buy this product!" 

"Buy that product!" 

"This one works better!"

Here's the truth, I didn't understand what type of skin I had nor did I research the ingredients in the products that I was buying. 

Today's guest is sharing her skincare journey and how it became a full-time career. 

Houston rooted with Georgia flare, Ms. Veronica Johnson is a mompreneur with hands for skincare. Veronica began her making skincare products when her son became gravely ill and was bedridden for months. Concerned about his skin change, she took natural products that changed his skin forever. Connect with Veronica on Instagram @vecor_bodycare_alexx_blanks and vecorbodycare.com.

Today, we are discussing Human Rights with Mr. Gerald Rose. 

This is a special conversation that discusses sensitive current events and brings awareness to the importance of human rights. Unfortunately, America is separated by race, ethnicity, religion, gender, when it's called the "United" States. 

Mr. Gerald Rose, a Human Rights Advocate and Leader, speaks about how he and his organization has stepped in to advocate for those who have been discriminated against. 

Ohio native, Gerald Rose, was introduced to the Human & Civil Rights arena through his father. His father was a part of the NAACP and worked with political officials to bring justice for those who didn't have a winning hand. Connect with Gerald on Instagram @rose1992order.

While the present can have its own turn of events, the future is coming day by day. 

Some of us are good at planning, while others take it day-to-day, but are you ready for retirement?

Have you thought about it? What's your plan? As much as you love your job, do you plan on staying?

Today's guest educates us on how important retirement planning is and when to start. 

Filled with Southern Hospitality and HBCU excellence, Jeffrey Lamar, is changing the way people handle their finances. With a financial and real estate background, Jeff has helped thousands of families reach their financial goals. Connect with Jeff via Instagram @_jefflamar and @hamiltonwealthadvisors. 

Life Insurance! What's it all about?! Why do we need it? Who is it for? 

One thing that is for sure is that we all are going to leave Earth and transcend to another dimension. 

Life Insurance, in the midst of grief, is a way to take care of your loved ones in your physical absence. 

Life Insurance isn't just for the rich... it's for everyone!

Today's guest educates us on the importance of protecting your assets and the ones you love. 

The phenomenal, LaKisha C. Williams, is a licensed insurance professional, grief coach, and a mom to 2 superstars. She hails from Ohio and is reigning in Charlotte, NC. Connect with LaKisha on Instagram @lakisha_c_williams and/or www.lakishacwilliams.com.

When it comes to Self-Defense, some of us are taught early while the rest of us are forced into learning. 

Some learn physical Self-Defense, some learn mental Self-Defense, and others learn how to use their intellect as Self-Defense. 

The year, 2020, definitely woke us all up and made us prepare differently when it comes to defending ourselves and loved ones. 

Today's guest educates us on how to take the right direction to ensure that we don't fail. 

Chyna Escobar is a renowned, self-defense coordinator and media producer. Her roots are nourished in the beautiful field of South Carolina while she spreads her wisdom in Atlanta, GA. Connect with Chyna and her Self-Defense Coach on Instagram @chyna.escobar @provectusgroup. 

Finding your Life Partner is such a great feeling but is it great enough for you to do business together? 

There are many couples who are building empires together and they make it look easy. 

When doing business in general, sometimes lines can become blurred. But could you really withstand day-to-day business with your spouse by your side?

Featured Guests

Allen and Renee Richardson, a couple as smooth as leather, hails from the extraordinary Milwaukee, Wisconsin. From real estate to festive eats, this couple has dominated every obstacle in business TOGETHER. Connect with them on Instagram @realestateallenr. 

Cars! Cars! CARS!!!! 

No matter where you live, we all need a form of transportation to get around. However, transportation can be costly and a serious damper to your credit score if you can't afford it. 

But when Tax Season comes around, there is a glimmer of hope for the carless. Whether you're making a decision to buy new or used, this podcast is just for you. 

Featured Guest

New Jersey swagger with a touch of Florida's southern hospitality, Gemar, is the car professional that everyone loves. He's been educating and working in the car industry for more than 17 years. Connect with Gemar on Instagram @gemarichibon.

From the outside looking in, entrepreneurship can look very rewarding and sometimes glamorous. 

Some people become entrepreneurs out of pure passion and some jump in because of the look. Either way, it's all hard work. 

Today's guest shares his entrepreneurship journey of triumph and failure. 

Featured Guest

Sarry Ibrahim is a financial consultant and the Founder of Financial Asset Protection, where he and his team help high net worth individuals, real estate investors, business owners, and retirees grow and protect their wealth predictably and safely. Connect with Sarry on LinkedIn and finassetprotection.com.

Yep! It's tax season and we have SO MANY QUESTIONS!!!!

COVID-19 definitely played a factor for all of us and now we are wondering what to do.

Today's guest is here to help us navigate the Tax Waters.

The vibrant, intelligent, and elite, Latasha Webb, shares her financial wisdom through business and life with the world. Her mission is to educate the masses about finances and how it can work for them. Connect with Latasha on IG @webbcfs.

Whether you're a business owner or an employee or in management, BUSINESS RELATIONSHIPS MATTER. 

It's important that we learn how to nourish them and not be afraid to establish them. 

Today's guest shares her stories of how she found confidence in building business relationships. 

Widely known as “Queen Aftan”, Aftan M Williams is the founder and visionary of Crown Up International, a movement that seeks “to transform the mindset of a girl into the mindset of a queen and the mindset of a boy into the mindset of a king”. She believes that we are all born royalty and therefore it is our responsibility to uphold that legacy. She is a southern girl that hails from New Orleans, Louisiana. Her design is creative, with gifts to host, manage, speak, write, sing, dance, choreograph, act and captivate audiences.  As a full-time entrepreneuHER, she has achieved accomplishments in those areas working in various capacities from road manager to talent with major forces. “Queendom” is a seed that has been planted in her when she was a little girl.

In 1990, she became the Queen of “God’s Royal Court” at Greater St. Stephen Full Gospel Baptist Church at just 5 years of age. She even became a national titleholder as U.S. United Ambassador in 2014. Queen Aftan was the first-ever Queen Juneteenth (2017-2018) and went on to win another national title right after that! She has done over 5,000 hours of community service for which she was awarded the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award from President Barack Obama. Clark Atlanta University rendered her two community service awards for leadership and commitment. She graduated from Clark Atlanta University with a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication: Public Relations. She is also a member of Gamma Sigma Sigma National Service Sorority, Inc and Lambda Theta Rho Alpha Synfonette Sorority, Inc.

Her company, Royalist Management, boasts affluential clients and evidence of her constant pursuit of excellence! As a personality, her “Crown Jewels”, "Car CROWNicles" and “Reign Drops” are anticipated tools of motivation on social media. In all of this, Queen Aftan has put God first. She has been honored by her experiences and is grateful to have been chosen all while walking in her pink shoes with a crown pin on the same side as her heart! Connect with Queen on IG @queenaftan.

Is it common courtesy? Is it peacekeeping? Is it simply PEOPLE PLEASING?

We live our lives making sure that other people are accommodated and sometimes it comes with sacrificing ourselves. While striving for peace is a great goal, it can be draining if you don't change your approach. 

Today's guest shares her journey of being a "People Pleaser" and how it shifted her life.

This brave and charismatic vessel, Keoka Harrison, hails from New Orleans. Filled with wisdom and triumph, she shares her heart with many to help them become their best selves. Connect with Keoka on IG @stephenkeokaharrison.

This is not only the 40th episode but this episode is personal. 

It has been 23 years since we have last seen and spoke to our biological father.  Three days before my 36th birthday, he called. 

In this episode, my brother and I breakdown how we wanted our father to be responsible for our healing. 

Abuse is a very sensitive subject but it has become more spotlighted during COVID-19.

Many of us didn't really know the individuals that we resided with until we were told to quarantine. 

More people have lost their lives because their loved ones couldn't process this "new normal."

Today's guest shares her journey and expertise when it comes to abuse. 

FEATURED GUEST

The wonderful and studious, Coach Nakisha Hargrove, hails from the great state of Maryland. She has been an advocate for Domestic Violence survivors worldwide and a Life Coach to many. She is also an author and her work can be found on Amazon.com. Connect with Nakisha on Instagram @nakisha_thevessel.

Mental Health has been the topic of 2020 and now that we are in 2021, more people are coming to the forefront to make it less taboo.

We oftentimes get hit with so many of life's circumstances that we find ourselves pushing through the pain and never acknowledging that it hurts.

Today's guest gives us some tools to live by through telling us about her personal encounter with mental health.

FEATURED GUEST

The beautiful and studious, Monique Darnell, is a therapist changing the culture of mental health. With over 12 years of experience, she has transformed her clients in achieving a healthier relationship with themselves. Connect with Monique on Instagram @moniquedarnell and www.mrdcasolutions.com. 

Honor is one thing that either we are taught at home, in the church, in the military, and sometimes school. 

However, our continuation of "honor" can sometimes leave us and we find ourselves having to learn it all over again. In some truth, we are able to honor others but neglect ourselves. 

Today's guest teaches us just how important honor is. 

One of Dade County's most prolific and outstanding leaders, Lakeisha Q. Dixon, is a God-champion leading people into greater realms. She has a passion for breakthrough strongholds and baking sweets. Connect with Lakeisha on Instagram @thebreakthroughstrategist.

2020 wore us out!!! We all lost something, someone, etcetera. No matter what, we survived it. 

When tragedy hits us, it's hard to pick up where we left off and some of us never even try. 

Today's guest shares his traumatic moments and how he prevailed afterward. 

 The charismatic and inspirational soul, Coach Brandon Sweeney, has dedicated his life to teaching others how to go beyond the trauma. He is also a husband, father, school administrator, and leader. Connect with Brandon on Instagram @coach_sween. 

Hey there!

We won't be dropping a new episode tomorrow but we will be LIVE on Instagram this coming Wednesday for a podcast review. 

Follow us @wisdom_by_30 for the LIVE at 7 PM Eastern, 6 PM Central and 4 PM Pacific Time. 

THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH FOR LISTENING!!! 

From selling custom t-shirts, jewelry, custom cups, and so much more... it all looks lucrative. 

So we try it for ourselves, the entrepreneur road. All to find out that there is a lot more to learn than just selling items on social media. 

Today's guest takes us down her journey of discovery via e-commerce. 

From corporate to a million-dollar empire, Cyn Meadows has definitely taken her destiny by the ropes. She is also a coach, mentor, and business guru  changing the way that we all "e-commerce." Connect with Cyn via Facebook @cynmeadows.

Planning for the future can be difficult because of life's uncertainties. Even planning for the next day is a bit of a stretch. 

The truth is that life happens fast but you gotta be prepared no matter what. 

Today's guest shares his uncomfortable journey to the "wise road" of planning for the future. 

Centario Grier, husband, financial advisor, and entrepreneur hails from the great state of North Carolina. With poise and his level-headed persona, he educates his community on the importance of being financially free. Connect him on Instagram @cjgrier5.

Parenting is one of the hardest jobs in the world, but sometimes it's hard to be the child of your parents. 

Just like they had to learn how to love us, we had to learn how to love them. But what happens when you become an adult with your own family to raise? Are you still treated like a child or honored as an adult? Sometimes it feels like a tug of war. 

Today's guest shares her transition from a parented child to an honored adult. 

Patrice is a Voice Finder! CEO and founder, Patrice Lindo of @TheCareerNomad helps clients to amplify their authentic corporate voice using their professional brand, experience, and expertise to drive change in their career and business. Connect with Patrice on Instagram @thecareernomad. 

Trust... the essence of allowing people into your personal space freely. And while some of us are open to doing this, the rest of us are not. 

Trust doesn't come easy and once you get it, there is a hefty price to pay to keep it. 

Today's guest shares her most vulnerable moments of experiencing trust on every level. 

One of Meridan's beautiful magnolias, Danielle Badgett, is a diverse entrepreneur with southern charm. When she's not being a CEO, she is a realtor, production manager, and community advocate. Connect with Danielle on Instagram @dani.badgett.  

Some of us want to be fit for the look. 

Some of us want to be fit because it's our lifestyle. 

And the rest of us want to be fit because WE HAVE TO. 

But it's hard!!! No matter what category you fit in, we all find ourselves at a "Fitness Crossroad."

Today's guest helps us to navigate the life of fitness with simple tactics.

The beautiful and fit, Coach LaKisha C. Williams, is a nutritional soul from Akron, Ohio. She is all things culinary, baking, training, and fitness. Connect with Lakisha on Instagram @Lakisha_C_Williams.

Celibacy. The essence of saving yourself for marriage but it saves you from A LOT more. 

But what happens when the saving is hard to maintain? 

Today's guest shares her most intense moments of maintaining celibacy. 

The beautiful and talented, Dorian Brock, is a creative, designer, and culinary enthusiast with Bay and Creole roots. She is the proud owner of "Blessed in the City," a safe community of acceptance and understanding for those who have made the choice to seek professional counseling in hopes of improving all areas of their lives. It is my hope to remove the stigma around seeking therapy and counseling in the Christian Community, specifically the Black Christian Community where it is considered taboo and not encouraged. In this space we are intentional about extending gentle loving grace to those who are struggling with their mental health, relationships with themselves, others, and God, their purpose, careers, and so on by promoting healing through therapy in combination with prayer.

In a world full of critics, critiques, and perspectives... we usually don't take the time to do self-checks. The truth is that most of us are a little nervous about what those self-checks may reveal. 

Today's guest walks us through self-discovery and how not to be afraid of becoming self-aware.

Featured Guest

Tasha T. Huston is an Editor-In-Chief, Author, and Sociologist who hails from New Orleans, Louisiana. She is also a bakery entrepreneur comforting her community through baked goodness. Connect with her @tthuston on Instagram.

When we're young, we make plans about when we will marry, have children, graduate from college, buy a home ore our dream car.

We won't make a decision about chasing a dream because we feel that it's "not the perfect time" to so. 

Today's guests all open up about how perfectionism once ruled their lives. 

Featured Guests

Rhuneisha Fields is a Florida girl with West Coast style. She is a Change Manager by day and a Brand Stylist by night. She is a successful t-shirt line owner and creator. Connect with her on Instagram via @lifewithrhu and @divarhoni.

Shakeera Ruff is a New Jersey creative with an eye for Interior Design & Style. As a realtor and designer, she is cultivating ways to empower those who have yet to tap into their creative side and those who are in need of realty education. 

Tasheka Williams is a New Orleans designer and wardrobe stylist who loves all things fashion. She is a savvy entrepreneur who is trending on the fashion scene. Connect with her on Instagram via @shekababy504.

Hey Everybody! 

It's your Host & Creator, Shay Ruff! I want to welcome and invite you to the "I Failed..." Podcast!

This is a podcast space where failure is welcome so that we all can be set free from the regret of our failures. 

Failure happens, but it doesn't define you! That's why my guests and I share our stories with you so you won't feel bogged down by failure. 

Many of us dream of buying a home... our dream home. However, we're not really clear about the process. 

There are so many different resources that it can be overwhelming. 

Today's guest, who is a realtor and homeowner, shares how she first failed but then succeeded.

Featured Guest

Creative, starlight, realtor, and so much more! Stylis B. hails from the cultural, New Orleans, and her personality is just as live as the city. Connect with her @real_estatewithstyle on Instagram. 

The tears. The heartache. The headaches. The frustration. The random emotions!!!!

Breaking up is clearly hard to do but there's always a lesson or 2 to learn. 

Today's guest tells us his story on breaking up and how we all should see it another way. 

Businessman. Traveler. Wisdom-filled. Full of truth. All of this describes the smooth, Jermaine Manuel. His reign is Louisiana based and he brings southern hospitality everywhere he goes. Connect with Jermaine on IG @jpaul318.