The Mama's Den

This summer, we said hello to the Mama's Den village as a party of 3 and we are running this episode back for everyone new to the Den AND because in exactly 7 weeks, Melanie, Ashley, and Codie will be LIVE in Atlanta at City Winery. Get to know where we've been, who we are, and how we are rolling with the changes 2025 has brought us. Now more than ever, these mamas are juggling motherhood, entrepreneurship, and personal growth - still doing their best to choose joy and lean on community. If you’re out here doing the best with what you’ve got, this is your reminder: joy is still available to you. Want to see The Mama's Den live in Atlanta on November 3rd? Get your tickets here: https://citywinery.com/atlanta/events/the-mamas-den-podcast-live-6vpkv0 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Get ready for a crash course in sex ed! Sexologist and certified sex educator Shan Boodram breaks down what healthy sexual development looks like for kids and teens. From teaching body awareness to navigating first crushes, romantic relationships, and intimacy - Shan shares how to have open, age-appropriate conversations with your children. Trigger Warning: the conversation also offers advice and insights around sexual assault and how to empower children to speak up. This episode is packed with tools and resources to help parents guide their kids through one of the most important (and often overlooked) parts of growing up. For more resources, go to LoversByShan.com. Also check out Shan’s Sex Ed Crash Course on YouTube and her MasterClass (The Art of Sex Appeal). ________________________ We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com. Make sure you connect with our Mamas: Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls Codie - @codieco Melanie - @melaniefiona

The Mamas are joined by Charles Johnson, single dad and founder of the nonprofit 4Kira4Moms. After losing his wife Kira during childbirth, Charles turned his pain into purpose - advocating (all the way to Congress) to end maternal mortality while navigating the hardship and humor of raising his two sons. In this episode, Charles gets real about solo parenting, finding work-life balance, and building the village it takes to do it all. He reminds us that joy and grief can live in the same house - and that showing up for your kids and your purpose is a powerful act of love and legacy. Go to 4Kira4Moms.com to get involved and advocate for better maternal health outcomes. ________________________ We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com. Make sure you connect with our Mamas: Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls Codie - @codieco Melanie - @melaniefiona

Would you rather your kid have lice…or the stomach flu?? In this episode, the Mamas play a game of Would You Rather? - unpacking everything from funny hypotheticals to real-life boundaries and the many messy moments in parenting. It’s a lighthearted convo full of laughs, real talk, and proof that every mama has her own way of handling motherhood in the wild. ________________________ We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com. Make sure you connect with our Mamas: Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls Codie - @codieco Melanie - @melaniefiona ________________________ We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com. Make sure you connect with our Mamas on IG: @themamasdenpodcast Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls Codie - @codieco Melanie - @melaniefiona For more Black Love interviews and articles, and to watch The Mama's Den podcast, visit www.BlackLove.com

Candice Bolden, entrepreneur and former professional dancer, opens up about her journey with PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) - from battling weight gain and skin issues to being told she’d struggle to conceive. With lots of research, faith, and support from her husband, ex-NFL player Omar Bolden, Candice reversed her symptoms through major lifestyle changes - and now they’re proud parents to a baby girl! This episode is a powerful reminder that you can take control of your health and how motherhood can inspire a whole new mindset. Check out The Mama's Den episode with Candice's husband, Omar here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-mamas-den/id1616159115?i=1000674715097 ________________________ We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com. Make sure you connect with our Mamas on IG: @themamasdenpodcast Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls Codie - @codieco Melanie - @melaniefiona For more Black Love interviews and articles, and to watch The Mama's Den podcast, visit www.BlackLove.com

AD, reality TV star and podcast host, joins the Mamas to dish on going from a heartbreak on Love is Blind to finding her happily-ever-after on Perfect Match - where she met her fiancé, Ollie Sutherland. Now expecting their first child (we’re screaming!), AD spills all the tea on her pregnancy body changes, planning two weddings, and how she’s carrying her biggest life lessons into motherhood and marriage. The Mamas swap wisdom on breastfeeding, postpartum, and building a partnership...showing that no matter how you become a mama - self-care, support, and communication are everything. ________________________ We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com. Make sure you connect with our Mamas: Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls Codie - @codieco Melanie - @melaniefiona ________________________ LOVE BLACK LOVE? Subscribe to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/blacklove?s... For more Black Love interviews and articles, visit http://www.BlackLove.com Follow Facebook: blacklovedoc Instagram: blacklove Tiktok: blackloveinc #BlackLoveDoc #blacklove #blacklovemagic

We are running back a popular episode where Melanie, Ashley, and Codie break down a list of one-liners they found on social media that make parenting a little easier, like “you gotta do what you need to do, before you get to do what you wanna do” (a Melanie Fiona original). They also discuss teaching their kids about respect, validating their emotions while disciplining them, and giving kids autonomy in making decisions — even when they want to cuss! Throughout the convo, the mamas get a few surprise phone calls that tie right into a heartfelt Listener Letter — this is an episode you won’t want to miss! ====== Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com or hit us up on IG at @themamasdenpodcast Make sure you connect with our Mamas: Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls Codie - @codieco Melanie - @melaniefiona

Y'all welcome to this oldie but goodie - we are throwing it back to an conversation that brought out some feelings. Mamas, we often celebrate others and stress ourselves out over our kids' birthdays but, in this episode, Codie, Ashley, and Melanie discuss the value of experiences versus parties, embracing getting older, and Ashley annual emotional response to her birthday......She opens up about the difficulties of having a birthday around the holidays and how her birthday celebrations have evolved since losing her sister. So Village, what is your ideal birthday celebration? How do you celebrate and embrace getting a year older? Get in on the conversation and let us know over at podcasts@blacklove.com OR you can always submit a DM on IG @themamasdenpodcast Make sure you connect with our Mamas: Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls Codie - @codieco Melanie - @melaniefiona

This is a timeless episode from a time when a then 4-year old Asiyah asked Ashley "What do you want to be when you grow up?" Ashley was not pleased! Codie, Melanie, and Ashley are talking about what it means to be "just" a mother - and more. The Mamas also explore what it means to truly be living in your purpose and supporting your kids’ decisions despite what you may want for them! So, Mama's Den Village, are you fulfilling your childhood dreams or did you figure out your purpose later in life? Let us know your point of view over at podcasts@blacklove.com OR you can always submit a DM on IG at @themamasdenpodcast. Make sure you connect with our Mamas: Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls Codie - @codieco Melanie - @melaniefiona

We are running it back to this fun conversation from 2023....We all know social media sparks a lot of conversations these days. So Codie, Ashley, and Melanie are giving their opinions about a post shared on Instagram that listed 5 things parents should do if they want to have a secure relationship with their children. The Mamas also talk about holding space for their children’s emotions and reflect on their relationships with their own mothers. Mama's Den Village, do you agree with the 5 steps of having a secure relationship with your child? Do you have another step you would add to the conversation? Let us know your point of view over at podcasts@blacklove.com. PLUS you can always hit us up over on Instagram at @themamasdenpodcast Make sure you connect with our Mamas: Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls Codie - @codieco Melanie - @melaniefiona

Is your kid’s bedtime routine a sweet dream…or a beautiful nightmare? In this episode, the Mamas are joined by Brandi Jordan - pediatric sleep specialist, postpartum doula, lactation consultant, and professional baby whisperer. Brandi breaks down how sleep actually works, from healthy newborn sleep habits to setting boundaries with big kids who still crawl into your bed. She talks about dream feeds, developmental milestones, co-sleeping vs. the cry-it-out method, and how to create the right environment for restful sleep - for your little ones and yourself. Because yes, Village, your sleep matters too. Check out Brandi’s agency - The Cradle Company, her podcast "Dear Doula", and follow her on Instagram @brandi_jordan_official for more tips. ________________________ We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com. Make sure you connect with our Mamas: Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls Codie - @codieco Melanie - @melaniefiona ________________________ LOVE BLACK LOVE? Subscribe to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/blacklove?s... For more Black Love interviews and articles, visit http://www.BlackLove.com Follow Facebook: blacklovedoc Instagram: blacklove Tiktok: blackloveinc #BlackLoveDoc #blacklove #blacklovemagic

A few weeks ago, we dropped Mama’s Den Reintroduction Part 1 - if you missed it, go run that back! In Part 2, we pick up where we left off…but this time, we’re officially down one Mama. Codie, Ashley, and Melanie open up about Felicia’s decision to step away from the show to pursue her next chapter (we love you and love this for you, Fee!). The Mamas also get real about where they are now - juggling motherhood, entrepreneurship, and personal growth - while doing their best to choose joy and lean on community. If you’re out here doing the best with what you’ve got, this is your reminder: joy is still on the table. ________________________ We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com. Make sure you connect with our Mamas: Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls Codie - @codieco Melanie - @melaniefiona ________________________ LOVE BLACK LOVE? Subscribe to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/blacklove?s... For more Black Love interviews and articles, visit http://www.BlackLove.com Follow Facebook: blacklovedoc Instagram: blacklove Tiktok: blackloveinc #BlackLoveDoc #blacklove #blacklovemagic

Bozoma Saint John is a Badass Mama! From single motherhood to climbing the corporate ladder as a marketing exec, launching her hair brand Eve by Boz, and starring on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills - Boz has done it all! But behind the glam is a woman shaped by hard-earned lessons in self-love, loss, and unstoppable growth. In this episode, Boz opens up about losing a child, becoming a widow, and being a Black woman in the boardroom...and how these moments empowered her to stand on business in every role she takes on. Through it all, Boz has not just survived, but thrived - led by intuition, divine timing, and trust in divine intervention. ________________________ We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com. Make sure you connect with our Mamas & guest: Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls Codie - @codieco Melanie - @melaniefiona Bozoma - @badassboz ________________________ LOVE BLACK LOVE? Subscribe to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/blacklove?s... For more Black Love interviews and articles, visit http://www.BlackLove.com Follow Facebook: blacklovedoc Instagram: blacklove Tiktok: blackloveinc #BlackLoveDoc #blacklove #blacklovemagic

We recently put out a listener survey and the results are in...y’all want more from the Mamas! So in this episode, while Felicia’s off handling her business (we’re so proud of you, Fee!), Codie, Melanie, and Ashley reintroduce themselves, reflecting on how they became the women and mothers they are today. From unplanned pregnancies and navigating pregnancy without health insurance, to finding purpose in motherhood and building community through The Mama’s Den - the Mamas open up about why honest conversations matter and why they keep showing up for the Village. ====== We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com. Make sure you connect with our Mamas: Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls Codie - @codieco Felicia - @felicialatour Melanie - @melaniefiona ________________________ LOVE BLACK LOVE? Subscribe to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/blacklove?s... For more Black Love interviews and articles, visit http://www.BlackLove.com Follow us on - Facebook: blacklovedoc Instagram: blacklove Tiktok: blackloveinc #BlackLoveDoc #blacklove #blacklovemagic

Grammy-winning singer, author, and mama Victoria Monét is in the Den! Victoria opens up about how motherhood has shifted her mindset - from navigating the stigma of being pregnant in the music industry to guarding her joy, mastering time management, and finding inspiration for her hit song “On My Mama.” Victoria and the Mamas also talk about the power of having a village, and why leading by example and leaving a legacy matters. Plus, Victoria shares the story behind her new children’s book, Everywhere You Are - a beautiful picture book about the unbreakable connection between kids and their parents. Everywhere You Are is available for pre-order now and in bookstores on June 24, 2025. ====== We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com. Make sure you connect with our Mamas: Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls Codie - @codieco Felicia - @felicialatour Melanie - @melaniefiona

Dr. Arlene Hollingsworth - psychologist, Youtube creator, and mama of three - shares how she and her husband, Javoris (PhD), turned a family dream into Gracie’s Corner - the viral YouTube series that celebrates Black culture through animated kids’ songs. But the road wasn’t easy! From failed businesses and financial stress to finding their way as a family during the pandemic, Arlene reflects on how staying rooted in their purpose led to their breakout hit, The Phonics Song. This episode is for every parent chasing a dream while raising little ones - proof that with patience and resilience, ordinary people can build extraordinary things. ====== We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com. Make sure you connect with our Mamas: Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls Codie - @codieco Felicia - @felicialatour Melanie - @melaniefiona

In this episode, the Mamas confess about the struggle of teaching kids good hygiene. Because baby! Keeping the house clean and dealing with ashy, stinky bodies is tough — and tough situations call for tough love. Hear how the Mamas are trying to instill responsibility and independence… without completely losing their cool. ====== We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com. Make sure you connect with our Mamas: Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls Codie - @codieco Felicia - @felicialatour Melanie - @melaniefiona

Stylist Bec Gross joins the Mamas to drop her favorite tips for feeling cute and confident in your clothes - especially for moms learning to love their postpartum bodies. From embracing your shape and dressing for your size, to building a wardrobe with key staples, Bec’s here to help you rediscover your personal style. If you’re trying to be outside this season, Bec’s got the fashion hacks to make sure you look good and feel good! ====== We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com. Make sure you connect with our Mamas: Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls Codie - @codieco Felicia - @felicialatour Melanie - @melaniefiona

Producer, Actor, Choreographer, and Momager - Brittany Perry-Russell is THAT GIRL! From dancing with icons like Ciara and Beyoncé to raising a successful kid actor (Isaiah Russell-Bailey), Brittany joins the Mamas to discuss managing her son’s career while still chasing her own dreams. There’s no blueprint for motherhood, but for Brittany, being spirit-led has always kept her aligned with a higher purpose. If you’ve ever thought about giving up on your own dreams, this episode is your reminder to keep going - because Brittany is the Momager who’s survived the hustle, come out on top, and still she rises! ====== We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com. Make sure you connect with our Mamas: Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls Codie - @codieco Felicia - @felicialatour Melanie - @melaniefiona

Kerry Washington is in the Den! The Emmy-winning actress, activist, and mom of three joins the Mamas to talk about her latest film, Shadow Force, and what it’s like to play a badass mom on-screen while navigating wife-and-mom life behind the scenes. Kerry gets real about everything from her parenting partnership with her husband, Nnamdi Asomugha, to the moment she learned her father isn’t her biological dad - and how that revelation reshaped her personal and professional journey. Kerry and the Mamas also dive into what it takes to build a support system (it's okay to ask for help!) and how love is the greatest thing we can give ourselves. ====== We love getting Listener Letters! Send any thoughts or questions for the Mamas at podcasts@blacklove.com. Make sure you connect with our Mamas: Ashley - @watermeloneggrolls Codie - @codieco Felicia - @felicialatour Melanie - @melaniefiona