In this vibrant and fashion-forward episode of Black. Girl. Iowa., Emili sits down with Nekia Whitfield—CEO and lead designer of NikStar Designs. A proud Chicago native and Iowa State alum, Nekia shares her journey from studying fashion in Ames to building a thriving design brand in Des Moines. From prom gowns to bridal wear and maternity fashion, she designs clothing that empowers women of all shapes, sizes, and life stages.

Nekia opens up about her early days selling wholesale, the intentional pivot to full custom work, and how body inclusivity and confidence-building are at the core of her brand’s mission. She also talks about her signature slogan “Rock It with Confidence,” the importance of functional fashion (yes to deep pockets!), and her annual prom dress giveaway that offers young girls an unforgettable custom experience.

From behind-the-scenes design processes to mental health, rebranding, fashion rules, and future plans (hello solo bridal fashion show!), this conversation is equal parts inspiring, intimate, and empowering.
Where to find Nekia...Founder, NikStar DesignsWebsite: www.nikstardesigns.comSocial: @nikstardesigns on IG, TikTok, Facebook

Listen on:Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | iHeartRadio | Pandora | YouTube
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In this episode of Black. Girl. Iowa., host Emili sits down with Judge Ashley Stewart, the only Black woman currently serving as a judge in the state of Iowa. From her roots in Dallas and a passion for journalism to her pivot into law during the recession, Judge Stewart shares how resilience, community, and faith led her to the bench.

Together, Emili and Judge Stewart discuss:

• What it means to be the only Black woman judge in Iowa

• The power of representation in the courtroom

• Lessons learned from practicing criminal defense, appellate law, and opening her own firm

• Building community and finding home in Iowa

• Advice for young Black women considering careers in law

This conversation is about justice, perseverance, and the responsibility of paving the way for others.

📌 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and YouTube.
🔗 Visit www.blackgirliowa.com for more stories and reflections.

In this week’s episode of Black. Girl. Iowa., host Emili J sits down with La Toshia Burrell, licensed massage therapist, entrepreneur, and CEO of Redefine & Reveal Massage Therapy and Bodywork.

Born and raised in Fort Dodge, La Toshia shares her journey from competitive athletics and collegiate coaching to discovering her true calling in wellness and healing. She opens up about navigating identity in predominantly white spaces, overcoming challenges in higher education, and the pivotal decision to bet on herself as a single mother and entrepreneur.

La Toshia also discusses her trauma-informed healing program, Render a Respite, which provides massage therapy for individuals in marginalized communities, and reflects on the importance of safe touch, body awareness, and redefining massage as a tool for health—not just luxury.

Together, Emili and La Toshia talk about:

• Growing up biracial in Iowa and finding belonging.

• The role of athletics in shaping discipline, resilience, and purpose.

• The power of safe, therapeutic touch in addressing trauma.

• Building a purpose-driven business while navigating imposter syndrome.

• The importance of mentorship, collaboration, and betting on yourself.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, wellness advocate, or simply seeking encouragement to take the next step in your journey—this episode will leave you inspired to “do it afraid” and walk fully in your purpose.

Connect with Redefine & Reveal Massage Therapy & BodyworkWebsite: www.redefineandreveal.comEmail: massage@redefineandreveal.comInstagram/Facebook: @redefineandrevealSupport Render a Respite: Donations start at just $10.

Want more Black. Girl. Iowa.?Check out more ways to connect, reflect, and support the movement:

• Website: www.blackgirliowa.com

• Instagram: @blackgirliowa

• TikTok: @blackgirliowa

• Shop: BlackGirlIowaShop on Etsy — apparel (sweatshirts & t-shirts) and journaling kits

In this week’s episode of the Black. Girl. Iowa. podcast, Emili reflects on the legacy of Black women’s organizing through her experiences with the Tawasi Federated Women’s Club.

She highlights how community involvement is both a personal journey and a way of honoring those who came before us. From the safe housing provided to students in 1919 by the Iowa Association of Colored Women’s Clubs to the ongoing service of Tawasi, Black women have always built networks, created opportunities, and led with resilience.

Emili reminds listeners that rest is revolutionary, service is an honor, and meaningful change happens when each of us contributes to our communities and connects with others through local organizations.

Want more Black. Girl. Iowa.?

🌐 Website: www.blackgirliowa.com📱 Instagram: @blackgirliowa🎵 TikTok: @blackgirliowa

#BlackGirlIowa #BlackWomenLead #CommunityLegacy #IowaHistory #BlackExcellence #ServiceAndLegacy #RestIsRevolutionary #BlackWomenOrganize #CommunityMatters #HonorThePastBuildTheFuture

On this episode of Black. Girl. Iowa., Emili welcomes Loretta Windsor, founder of Sista SoulFest. What began as a vision in 2020 has grown into a powerful annual celebration spotlighting women of color, entrepreneurs, artistry, and community pride.

The 6th Annual Sista SoulFest takes place Sunday, August 31st from 11 a.m.–4 p.m. at Evelyn K. Davis Park in Des Moines. This year’s theme is Empowerment Through Unity, featuring food, music, a fashion show, vendors, and the inspiring “We See You Sis” Awards—all free and open to the public.

Loretta shares how SoulFest has expanded beyond Iowa, the importance of representation, and the lasting impact of building safe and joyful spaces for the community.

🎧 Listen & Subscribe:

• Spotify

• Apple Podcasts

• Amazon Music

• iHeartRadio

• Pandora

• YouTube

🛍️ Shop exclusive podcast merch + journaling kits: BlackGirlIowaShop on Etsy

📲 Follow on social media: Instagram | TikTok

🔗 Stay Connected to Black. Girl. Iowa.

In this episode of Black. Girl. Iowa., I sit down with Kayla Bell-Consolver—licensed mental health counselor, community leader, and founder of Question Kayla, LLC.

Kayla opens up about her journey from Tampa to Des Moines, the challenges of Black girlhood and acceptance, and how her experiences with shame and resilience shape the powerful work she does today. We talk about therapy as “heart work,” her viral TikToks making mental health accessible, and why she believes: “You don’t have to be perfect, you just gotta be you.”

This conversation is about healing, identity, and the courage to embrace every part of who we are.

Stay Connected with Kayla:

Question Kayla, LLCMental Health Presentations, Consultations, and Trainings
Pronouns: She/Her
Licensed Mental Health Counselor

• Website: questionkaylallc.com

• Substack: questionkayla.substack.com

• TikTok: @questionkayla

• Instagram: @questionkayla28

Want More Black. Girl. Iowa.?

Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pandora, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, and YouTube.
✨ Read reflections, guest features, and community stories on the Black. Girl. Iowa. Blog.
✨ Follow along on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook for updates, journaling prompts, and behind-the-scenes.

Keep telling your story. Keep being unapologetically you. 🖤

Registered nurse and community leader Monica Goodlett turned a single hike in West Virginia into a movement—founding Black Iowa Outdoors to connect, inspire, and challenge the narrative of who belongs in nature.

In this episode, she shares her journey from Urbandale to trailblazer, how the outdoors boosts mental and physical health, and why representation matters on the trail.

Get ready to be inspired—and maybe even lace up your sneakers for your own adventure.

Support Black Iowa Outdoors:

Facebook - Black Iowa Outdoors

Instagram - @blackiowaoutdoors

TikTok - @blackiowaoutdoors

Website - www.blackiowaoutdoors.com

Upcoming Events:

Mushroom Foray & Hike

Saturday, August 16th at Jester Park - 10:00 AM

Community Trash Pick-Up

Saturday, October 18th at Good Park - 10:00 AM

Want More Black. Girl. Iowa.?

Follow Black. Girl. Iowa. on Instagram and TikTok @blackgirliowa for more stories, reflections, and behind-the-scenes podcast moments.

Read my blog at www.blackgirliowa.com for deeper dives into each episode, and check out the Black. Girl. Iowa. Etsy shop for journals, kits, and more at BlackGirlIowaShop.

In this episode, I sit down with Corey Dion Lewis—health coach, media founder, and passionate health equity advocate—for a conversation that reminded me just how powerful intention and community really are.

Corey shares his journey from East Moline to Iowa City, and how his experience advocating for his mother’s health changed everything. That moment pushed him to launch The Healthy Project Podcast, build My City, My Health, and commit to creating spaces where our voices are heard in conversations about care, access, and representation.

We talk about what it means to lead with purpose, the challenges of navigating healthcare as Black Iowans, and how sometimes your calling finds you through the most personal experiences. Corey’s story is rooted in truth, transformation, and the belief that when we take care of each other, we all rise.

Resources & Links:🎧 Listen to The Healthy Project Podcast wherever you stream podcasts📲 Follow Corey on Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn & more @coreydionlewis🌐 Learn more about My City, My Health

Connect with Black. Girl. Iowa.:Follow Emili on Instagram & TikTok: @blackgirliowaShop merch + journaling kits: BlackGirlIowaShop on EtsyVisit the blog + more: blackgirliowa.com