How many decisions have you made today? Between managing a marriage, motherhood, and running your life (or business), the mental load is heavy. Our guest, Whitney Barkley, an AI guru and my college best friend, is here to address the madness of making 35,000 decisions a day—and how she got a handle on it.

We're diving into how AI isn't just for coding and sci-fi; it's a "great equalizer" for Black-owned businesses and the ultimate "regulator for your nervous system". Whitney breaks down her "human-first" framework: AI should be the cherry on top, not the whole recipe. Plus, we talk about the fear I had (as a new mom) of adopting this tech, and why so many women are still hesitant. Stop letting fear keep you from using your tools!

Tune in for the tea on how AI can help you:

• Draft that difficult conflict conversation.

• Lower your utility bills and manage finances.

• Plan a trip (like my upcoming Costa Rica adventure!).

• Get out of your own head and end the overthinking cycle.

  
  

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This episode is a solo podcast, chatting about my recent trip and celebrating a milestone anniversary with our very first international family trip to La Fortuna, Costa Rica. Our toddler is still a lap baby! This week, I'm peeling back the curtain on the real logistics:

• The essential 5 to 1 packing method kept our luggage light.

• How we handled activities like Mistico Hanging Bridges and Choyin Hot Springs with a little one.

• The full, hilarious story of my 4 a.m. run-in with TSA over toddler milk.

If you're planning a trip to Costa Rica with a toddler or just need some encouragement to book that family adventure, tune in!

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New year, new me? Nah, fall is the new January! In this episode, we're talking about how to use that fresh, back-to-school energy to finally hit those goals you've been putting off. I'm spilling the tea on my personal tips, including:

• Getting clear on your 'why'—aka the real reason you want to do the thing.

• Starting small—we're talking 10 minutes a day to start.

• Finding an accountability system to keep you honest.

• And most importantly, being realistic about what you can accomplish.

So grab your PSL and let's get into it—the end of the year is no time to play!

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In this special bonus episode of Young Black MRS., recorded LIVE at the empowering Women's Day event at Bethel AME Church in Kansas City, Morgane spoke on the topic of "Count It All Joy." She shared how to find unwavering joy even when life throws its toughest challenges your way. From starting 2025 with unexpected bumps to embracing God's steadfast presence, this message is packed with personal stories, biblical wisdom, and practical tips.

In this episode, you'll learn three key takeaways for cultivating joy:

1. Know Your History: Discover how looking back at your personal journey reveals God's consistent faithfulness, turning past trials into the foundation for future joy.

2. Practice Contentment: Understand why contentment isn't passive, but an active, daily choice that opens the door to deeper joy, even in times of waiting.

3. Share Your Joy: Learn why joy is contagious and how intentionally expressing it can transform not just your life, but also those around you.

Morgane also shared a truly full-circle moment as we ended the session with a joyous dance – a beautiful throwback to my childhood days dancing in church. It was an absolute blast and such an honor to share this message with the incredible women of Bethel AME Church!

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In this heartwarming episode, join Morgane as she reconnects with her college roommate, Sarah, to explore the evolution of their 15+ year friendship. From shared college memories to navigating the complexities of adult life and motherhood, Morgane and Sarah offer insightful perspectives on what it takes to maintain deep, long-distance friendships.

Discover the pillars of their enduring bond, including the importance of:

* Grace and Understanding: Learning to embrace the ebb and flow of communication, recognizing that long-term friendships don't always require daily conversations as long as consistency remains.

* Consistent Connection: We dive into practical tips on how to "touch base" and actively nurture your friendship bond even when miles apart.

* Intentional Check-ins: Practice the power of proactive communication to ensure both friends feel valued and connected.

* Use Social Media for Good: Sarah emphasizes the positive role social media can play in staying connected but reminds us that true friendship is often just a text message away.

Morgane and Sarah also share delightful anecdotes from their past, including hilarious tales involving a "powerful heater" and Morgane's infamous love for guacamole.

Tune in to learn how to cultivate and sustain your own meaningful long-distance friendships in today's busy world!

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In this episode of Young Black MRS, we're hopping back into our two-part conversation with Kelli Hearns on the evolution of friendships. But in this podcast, Kelli and I also discuss the art of cultivating meaningful relationships and building your personal "squad." It's not just about finding people; it's about connecting with intention, communicating effectively, and understanding each person's vital role in your life.

You'll hear our conversation about:

>Speaking Up for What You Need: Kelli explains the importance of being clear and direct with your communication among friends with old friends or budding buddies. >The Power of Intention: We chat about being intentional about who you invite into your life, and what role you hope they'll play, which can transform your friendships.

>Finding Your People: Host Morgane offers personal tips she's been using to meet new friends and build a supportive community by using commonalities and shared interests as a starting point.

>Defining Relationship Roles: We'll discuss the four key relationship sources contributing to a well-rounded life: family, partner, child, and friends.

>Showing Up: Consistency and effort are crucial for nurturing your relationships and helping them thrive.

Join us as we explore how to foster a supportive "squad" that genuinely enriches your life!

About Our Guest:

Kelli Hearn is an artist, writer, and lover of all things horror. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, with minors in Anthropology and Ethnic & Gender Studies, from Emporia State University, and a master’s degree in Family and Human Development from Arizona State University. Her graduate studies included a thesis on societal perceptions of Black women and how those perceptions impact their lived experiences. Kelli is a researcher at heart, and is currently working on a project focused on non-partnered people, friendship, and community building. She loves to travel, but homebase is in Kansas City, where she lives with her canine comrade, Eva.

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On this week episode of Young Black MRS, we're tackling a topic close to many of our hearts: the ever-changing landscape of friendship as we journey through adulthood.

Have you ever noticed how your friendships have shifted as you've moved through different life stages? From those ride-or-die school friendships to navigating connections amidst career changes, marriage, and starting a family, the evolution is real.

In this insightful first part of a two-part series, Morgane Freeman sits down with the brilliant Kelli Hearn. Kelli is a writer, artist, and behavioral researcher holding a master's in Family and Human Development. Her recent work exploring the experiences of non-partnered individuals and the importance of friendship and community building makes her the perfect guide for this conversation.

We dive deep into:

• The "Traditional Path" and Friendship: Kelli shares her research on how traditional societal norms around marriage and family still influence our friendship dynamics, even for those choosing different paths.

• The Mid-30s Friendship Shift: That moment when you look around and realize life's priorities can significantly impact your friendships. We discuss how focusing on career versus coupling can alter your social circles.

• Proximity: A Blessing and a Curse: We unpack how being physically close can create deep bonds, but distance can sadly lead to some friendships fading. Morgane shares a personal experience highlighting this bittersweet reality.

• Friendships with Purpose: We explore the idea that not every friend needs to be your confidante. Understanding that friends can serve different roles – brunch buddies, work connections, fellow parents – can bring a new appreciation for your social network.

• Navigating Different Life Seasons: It's tough when you and your friends are in vastly different stages of life. We discuss how changing values and personal growth can impact these connections.

About Our Guest:

Kelli Hearn is an artist, writer, and lover of all things horror. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, with minors in Anthropology and Ethnic & Gender Studies, from Emporia State University, and a master’s degree in Family and Human Development from Arizona State University. Her graduate studies included a thesis on societal perceptions of Black women and how those perceptions impact their lived experiences. Kelli is a researcher at heart, and is currently working on a project focused on non-partnered people, friendship, and community building. She loves to travel, but homebase is in Kansas City, where she lives with her canine comrade, Eva.

Don't miss Part 2 next week as we continue this important conversation!

#YoungBlackMRS #EvolvingFriendships #PodcastForBlackWomen #FriendshipAdvice #LifeTransitions #Sisterhood

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Friends, how many of us have them?

We all know the classic Whodini tune, but the lines between online followers and genuine friends are blurring in the modern world. This week, we explore how to turn those online connections into real-life bonds.

This week, Morgane talks with Dani Moore about Black Women Make Friends in Kansas City and the incredible power of online communities to foster sisterhood and meaningful friendships. They discuss where to start online (Facebook, Reddit, Discord, Meetup!), how to make those initial connections, and the crucial steps to take those online friendships offline. If you're a Black woman looking for connection and friendship, this episode is a must-listen!

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