Hey y’all, welcome back to the Brown Heart Podcast! We’re right in the thick of year-end planning season, and I know it can bring a mix of excitement and pressure. If you’re feeling that familiar pull of everything needs to be perfect, trust me, you’re not alone. Today’s episode is all about shifting away from that stress-filled mindset and embracing a different approach.

Instead of letting the pressure get to us, we’re diving into how to lead with purpose, compassion, and flexibility. I’m sharing what’s helped me get through this time of year without losing my sanity—like setting clear boundaries (because who else feels like their calendar is a chaotic mess?), detaching from outcomes we can’t control, and reconnecting with our big ‘why’. Taking time to reflect on your purpose can make this whole process feel lighter and more focused.

• Letting Go of Perfection: Spoiler alert—perfection is overrated. We’re leaving it behind to focus on progress, not perfection.

• Intentional Delegation: You can’t do it all, and that’s okay. Let’s talk about empowering your team and giving them space to shine.

• Space for Reflection: Creating moments for collective reflection can provide insights that shape intentional, aligned goals for 2025.

• Detaching from Uncontrollable Outcomes: It’s time to release the stress of things outside our control and focus on where we can make real impact.

I’ll also share a reflective question I ask myself every year: What was the hope and purpose that brought me into this role? It’s a powerful way to reconnect with what truly matters as we close out the year.

To wrap things up, we’re taking a mindful moment together. Take a deep breath with me and let go of any tension tied to the things you can’t control. Let’s create space for clarity and step into the new year feeling grounded and connected to our purpose.

This past week was a rollercoaster (post-election stress anyone?), so here are a few things that brought me a little joy:

• Self-Care Item of the Week: My new patio water fountain. There’s something so calming about listening to the water flow while I sit outside.
• Show of the Week: Abbott Elementary had me laughing all week. It’s the perfect comfort show for my nervous system.
• Tea of the Week: I tried the Puff & Sip blend from the Sip Teashop (found them on TikTok!). Even though I’m not puffing it, the flavor was so soothing and just what I needed.

Let’s keep this conversation going over on Instagram (@brownheartwellness). Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss next week’s episode where we’ll be tackling holiday stress and setting boundaries to protect our peace. Remember, you have the right to prioritize your well-being, and I’m here cheering you on.

See you next week, and if you loved today’s chat, share it with a friend who could use a little encouragement as they plan for the new year!

In this Election Day episode, Samantha explores the power of using your voice, from voting to setting boundaries with family and colleagues. Whether in tough conversations or protecting your peace, find out how to show up with courage, especially when it’s uncomfortable.

Brown Heart Affirmation: "Today, I honor the power of my voice. I make choices that align with my values, knowing that my voice holds power, even in the smallest actions."

Key Topics:

• Embracing Your Voice on Election Day – A reminder to vote and how expressing yourself shapes both life and community.

• Managing Workplace Tensions – Ways to stay grounded when values clash.

• Navigating Family Dynamics – Balancing self-respect with familial love, especially in tense moments.

Actionable Tips:

1. Set Boundaries for Political Discussions – Know which topics are worth engaging in.

2. Prepare for Tough Conversations – Outline your main points to stay focused.

3. Breathe and Pause – Use the space between reaction and response to center yourself.

4. Lean on Safe Spaces – Seek out supportive environments to build resilience.

Brown Heart Mindful Moment: Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and think of a moment where you stayed silent. Visualize speaking up confidently and let your voice grow stronger in your mind.

Next Episode: Join us next week to explore how to balance year-end planning with self-care as we prepare for 2025. Subscribe and share if today’s episode resonates—let’s keep building courage, together.

✨ Weekly Favorites Round-Up! ✨
I thought it’d be fun to start sharing some of the things that stood out for me each week! Here’s what made the list:

👓 Most Complimented: My go-to glasses—these Azalea Tortoiseshell frames from Zenni! Always a conversation starter!
📺 Show of the Week: The Martha Stewart Documentary on Netflix. It’s so inspiring to see the journey of a female mogul—it had me captivated!
🍵 Most Drank Tea: Magic Hour Teas are still my favorite, but I’d love to support a Black-owned tea brand. Any recommendations?

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In this episode of the Brown Heart Podcast, Samantha Edu explores the journey of reclaiming your voice, particularly as a Black woman in corporate spaces. She shares a personal journal entry that marked a turning point in her journey and dives into the challenges of self-censorship, the weight of systemic pressures, and how finding your voice is key to personal and professional growth.

Brown Heart Affirmation:
"Today, I honor my voice. I recognize the systems that have silenced it and the courage it takes to reclaim it. I speak with clarity, confidence, and compassion, knowing that my voice is my power."

Key Takeaways:

• Self-censorship often stems from internalized pressures within systems of oppression.
• Reclaiming your voice is a process that starts with small, intentional steps.
• Using your voice isn't just about being heard in corporate settings—it's about leading yourself in all aspects of life.

Actionable Steps:

• Write it Down: Journal about something you’ve been afraid to say.
• Find Brave Spaces: Surround yourself with people and environments where you feel safe to express your voice.
• Take Small Steps: Practice using your voice in small, everyday moments.

Listen Now:
Take a moment to connect with your voice and discover how you can start using it more boldly, both at work and in your personal life. Tune in now to learn how to take the first steps toward reclaiming your authentic expression.

Call to Action:
Challenge yourself this week: find one moment to speak up and reclaim your voice. If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with a friend and subscribe for more empowering episodes.

If you would like more information on The GreatBIG Life Academy check out her website and the new Youtube channel!