In this episode of the Black. Girl. Iowa. podcast, host Emili shares a personal check-in, discussing her recent life transitions, including a job change, returning to therapy, and completing her graduate program. She emphasizes the importance of mental health and self-care, particularly in light of the challenging social and political climate.

Emili also introduces her upcoming reading challenge for 2025, aimed at promoting diverse authors, and expresses her commitment to creating more content that empowers and advocates for Black women.

Want More Black. Girl. Iowa.?

BlackGirlIowa MERCH is NOW AVAILABLE!

Etsy Shop - BlackGirlIowaShop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/BlackGirlIowaShop?ref=seller-platform-mcnav

Website: www.blackgirliowa.com

TikTok: @blackgirliowa

Instagram: @blackgirliowa

Blog Post: 2025 Black. Girl. Iowa. Reading Challenge

Dr. Jasmine Ross is a licensed psychologist, and owner of Essence Psychological Health Services in Houston, Texas. In this episode, she shares her experience growing up in the Bronx and the unique aspects of being a New Yorker. She discusses the impact of her annual visits from her cousins in Iowa and how it challenged her to think about life outside of New York.

Dr. Ross also talks about her journey into psychology and her passion for understanding why people do the things they do. Additionally, she shares how her personal experiences have shaped her professional work and ability to connect with her clients. In this dynamic conversation, she also encourages individuals starting their mental health journey to envision the version of themselves they want to be and to seek out therapists and resources that align with their goals.

Where to find Dr. Jasmine Ross

Website: https://www.drjasmineross.com or epsychhealth.com

Facebook: Jasmine Ross

Instagram: @dr.jasmineross

TikTok: @dr.jasmineross

Resources to find a Mental Health Professional

Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us

Therapy for Black Girls: https://therapyforblackgirls.com

National Latinx Psychological Association: https://www.nlpa.ws

Want More Black. Girl. Iowa.?

BlackGirlIowa MERCH is NOW AVAILABLE!

Etsy Shop - BlackGirlIowaShop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/BlackGirlIowaShop?ref=seller-platform-mcnav

Website: www.blackgirliowa.com

TikTok: @blackgirliowa

Instagram: @black.girl.iowa

In this conversation, Councilwoman Renee Hardman discusses her journey to Iowa and her involvement in the community. She emphasizes the importance of civic engagement and the need for representation in politics. Hardman also shares her passion for serving marginalized communities and highlights the work she does as the CEO of Lutheran Services of Iowa.

Learn More about LSI - www.lsiiowa.org

Want More Black. Girl. Iowa.?

Website: www.blackgirliowa.com

Instagram: @black.girl.iowa

FAVORITE Etsy Shop - BlackGirlIowaShop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/BlackGirlIowaShop?ref=seller-platform-mcnav

***The shop will reopen for pre-orders in November! Stay turned for more details!