Show Notes

What if cancer care could go beyond managing symptoms to help patients truly heal in mind, body, and spirit? Joining us today is Melbra Watts, Executive Director of Charlotte Maxwell Clinic, a women’s health clinic in Oakland, California, offering free integrative care to under-served, low-income women with cancer. Melbra shares how this clinic goes beyond conventional care to deliver acupuncture, energy healing, nutritional counseling, and more, all in a space that honors the full person. Discover how their holistic support helps women manage pain, renew their spirits, and reclaim power in their healing journeys, transforming their treatment experience. This episode reveals not only the clinic’s impact but also the inspiration and resilience that drive Melbra’s work to make compassionate care accessible to those who need it most. Listen in for a heartening look at how love and dedication fuel a healing community!

Key Points From This Episode:

• A warm welcome to today’s guest, Melbra Watts.

• The history of Charlotte Maxwell Clinic and its mission.

• How complementary therapies can support cancer care.

• Melbra's journey and how she joined Charlotte Maxwell Clinic.

• Understanding the difference between curing and healing.

• How unresolved trauma and shame can affect your health.

• The surprisingly positive impact that the pandemic had on the clinic.

• Unpacking some of the funding and support challenges that the clinic faces.

• Volunteer practitioners and their indispensable contributions to the clinic.

• Why integrative care is essential for comprehensive cancer treatment.

• Reflections on the beauty in helping clients reconnect with their mind, body, and spirit.

Quotes:

“Studies have shown that complementary therapies actually do improve the quality of life. They actually do boost the immune system so that the women can recover from the radiation and the chemotherapy and surgeries and different kind of things that they go through.” — Melbra Watts [0:08:47]

“I have to say, the pandemic, in a way, was a gift for us because it really helped us to shift what we were doing, and we were able to take advantage of some resources that became available during that time.” — Melbra Watts [0:16:54]

“One of our principles is making sure [women don’t] – blame themselves for having contracted the illness or the disease.” — Melbra Watts [0:18:43]

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Melbra Watts

Melbra Watts on LinkedIn
Charlotte Maxwell Clinic
Gwendolyn Mitchell on LinkedIn
MOYO Institute, Inc

Love Letters 2 Our Bodies is sponsored by Moyo Institute, Inc and the Lloyd Symington Foundation
Gwendolyn Mitchell on LinkedIn
MOYO Institute, Inc
instagram.com/moyoinstitute

There are many ways in which your health and nutrition affect your chances of getting cancer and how your body recovers from a cancer diagnosis. Today on Love Letters 2 Our Bodies, Assistant Professor of the Department of Nutritional Sciences at Howard University, Dr. Linda Thompson joins us to discuss food and nutrition in relation to cancer. In this conversation, you’ll hear all about our guest and what inspired her to work in nutrition, how certain lifestyle choices increase the risk of cancer, the effect of chronic disease, stress, mental health, and food on cancer, and so much more! We delve into the kinds of foods to avoid with a cancer diagnosis and what you should prioritize in your diet before discussing organic fruits and vegetables and their benefit. Dr. Thompson even shares tips for eating nutritious foods on a low budget, shares examples of carcinogenic foods, and warns us to avoid genetically modified foods. Finally, our guest tells us what has inspired her in her nutrition journey. Thanks for tuning in!

Key Points From This Episode:

• An overview of today’s guest, Dr. Linda Thompson.

• How Dr. Thompson became interested in nutrition.

• She discusses the lifestyle factors that increase the risk of cancer.

• How chronic disease and stress are related to breast cancer.

• The foods that may increase the risk of getting breast cancer.

• Recommended foods for breast cancer survivors to eat.

• Dr. Thompson shares her thoughts on organic fruits and vegetables.

• How you can manage to eat nutritious foods on a lower budget.

• The danger of eating genetically modified foods.

• Why grill food (that’s been charred), processed foods, and fizzy drinks can cause cancer.

• What inspires Dr. Thompson in her nutrition path and life.

Quotes:

“In order to live, we have to eat and what we eat affects our quality of life and our risk of disease.” — Dr. Linda Thompson [0:04:13]

“It doesn’t matter what size you are as long as you are in good health.” — Dr. Linda Thompson [0:09:20]

“There’s so much going on in the [food] industry that we have to keep up instead of just being blind consumers. We need to really be paying attention to what we’re putting in our bodies, particularly if we’re dealing with an issue like breast cancer, or any cancer.” — Dr. Linda Thompson [0:25:31]

“We may not be able to control a lot of things in our [lives] but we can control what we put in our [mouths] for sure.” — Dr. Linda Thompson [0:29:28]

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Dr. Linda Thompson

Dr. Linda Thompson Email

‘Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers, and Prevention’
Gwendolyn Mitchell on LinkedIn
MOYO Institute, Inc

Love Letters 2 Our Bodies is sponsored by Moyo Institute, Inc and the Lloyd Symington Foundation
Gwendolyn Mitchell on LinkedIn
MOYO Institute, Inc
instagram.com/moyoinstitute

Episode 8: Show Notes
Could the beauty products you're using be silently harming your health? In this powerful episode of the Love Letters 2 Our Bodies podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Astrid Williams, Director of Programs and Initiatives for the California Black Health Network, to reveal a disturbing truth: many of the beauty products marketed to Black women contain toxic chemicals linked to cancer and other serious health issues. Join us as Dr. Williams dives into the heart of the Conscious Black Beauty Movement (CBBM), which is fighting to protect our communities from these dangers while challenging the harmful Eurocentric beauty standards that pressure women to conform. From exposing startling truths, like the fact that the $7.5 billion Black beauty industry often promotes carcinogenic products, to sharing practical ways to choose safer products and support legislative efforts that are pushing for better regulation, this episode is an urgent wake-up call. If you want to reclaim your health, embrace your natural beauty, and take a stand against toxic beauty norms that don't serve you, be sure to tune in today!

Key Points From This Episode:

• An introduction to Dr. Astrid Williams and the California Black Health Network.

• Harmful toxins in Black beauty products that contribute to breast and uterine cancer.

• How the CBBM advocates for access to clean, safe, and affordable beauty products.

• Legal protections like the Crown Act that safeguard natural hairstyles at work and school.

• The importance of rethinking (and reclaiming) our relationship with beauty.

• Eurocentric beauty standards that often pressure Black women into using toxic products.

• Why education and awareness are critical in the under-regulated beauty industry.

• Vote with your dollars: the buying power we have in the $7.5 billion Black beauty industry.

• Legislative initiative pushing for regulations to ensure safer Black beauty products.

• The scope of the CBBM and how the campaign is being received by communities of color.

• Practical tips and tools to help you choose safer beauty and fashion products.

• How to join the Conscious Black Beauty Movement and make meaningful change!

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Dr. Astrid Williams on LinkedIn

California Black Health Network

California Black Health Network on Instagram

California Black Health Network on Facebook

California Black Health Network on X

Conscious Black Beauty Movement (CBBM)

Breast Cancer Prevention Partners (BCPP)

Environmental Working Group (EWG) Healthy Living App

Think Dirty App

Clearya App

Gwendolyn Mitchell on LinkedIn
MOYO Institute, Inc

Love Letters 2 Our Bodies is sponsored by Moyo Institute, Inc and the Lloyd Symington Foundation
Gwendolyn Mitchell on LinkedIn
MOYO Institute, Inc
instagram.com/moyoinstitute

Today’s episode shows how a cancer diagnosis is not the end of one’s life. We are joined by Talaya Dendy, a renowned cancer doula (and 12-year cancer thriver!) who in her daily life and work, goes above and beyond to provide guidance & support. Talaya discusses what she prioritized before and after her cancer diagnosis. We learn about her diagnosis and how her view of her body has changed, how she processed the trauma of her diagnosis, how her lived experiences pushed her to become a cancer doula, and the ins and outs a cancer doula’s role and responsibilities. We also unpack the challenges that Talaya must overcome to serve those in need and what led to her podcast Navigating Cancer TOGETHER. Press play now for this thoughtful and insightful conversation about health, healing, and happiness!

Key Points From This Episode:

• Understanding Talaya Dendy: Her values before and after her cancer diagnosis.

• The stress of a corporate ladder pursuit.

• How she felt about her body before cancer versus how she feels about it now.

• Her approach to processing and accepting her diagnosis as a young, healthy woman.

• The ins and outs of being a cancer doula.

• The barriers that Talaya must overcome to reach the people who need her help the most.

• Why she started her important and inspirational podcast, Navigating Cancer TOGETHER.

• What you can learn from the Love Letters 2 Our Bodies Workshops.

• Talaya explains why Tabitha Brown is her current source of inspiration.

• The affirmations that help her navigate tough times.

Quotes:

“Like most women, you always find those things that you think are imperfect, but in reality, God made us perfectly. Being able to come to that realization took a lot of time, maturity, and self-love.” — Talaya Dendy [0:07:54]

“As a cancer doula, I walk with my clients; I guide them and support them; I make sure that they are heard and seen; and I make sure that they have the information and resources that they need to make informed decisions about their care and become the gatekeepers of their health.” — Talaya Dendy [0:10:51]

“It doesn’t mean that you’re going to die because you get a cancer diagnosis.” — Talaya Dendy [0:11:16]

“It’s not the load that breaks you down; it’s the way that you carry it.” — Talaya Dendy [0:26:28]

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Talaya Dendy | On the Other Side, LLC

Talaya Dendy on LinkedIn

Talaya Dendy on Instagram

Navigating Cancer TOGETHER

I Survived Cancer and Here Is How I Did It

Greater National Advocates

Tabitha Brown

Love Letter 2 Our Bodies Online Workshop – 19-20 October

Love Letters 2 Our Bodies is sponsored by Moyo Institute, Inc and the Lloyd Symington Foundation
Gwendolyn Mitchell on LinkedIn
MOYO Institute, Inc
instagram.com/moyoinstitute

What if setting a simple intention could transform your life? In this powerful episode, Gwendolyn Mitchell sits down with Astrid Richardson-Ashley, a licensed clinical social worker and Reiki practitioner, to explore the profound impact of intention and sacred space in healing and personal growth. Together, they delve into how the Love Letters 2 Our Bodies workshops create safe, transformative environments for Black women to heal, connect, and align their minds, bodies, and spirits. From the introduction of the Soma process, an ancient ritual that brings peace and joy, to the importance of resilience, conscious awareness, and community, this episode is filled with inspiring insights into how spirituality and intentionality can lead to profound change. Tune in today to find out how you can bring these healing practices into your own life!

Key Points From This Episode:

• How Astrid came to be part of the Love Letters 2 Our Bodies Project.

• The power of intention-setting as a catalyst for personal growth and healing.

• A ritualistic formula for setting intentions that unites mind, body, and spirit.

• Why it’s important to create a safe, sacred, grounded space to facilitate openness.

• Astrid’s favorite aspects of the workshops, namely the relationships.

• Acknowledging the courage and resilience of women throughout their healing journeys.

• An introduction to the Soma process and how it promotes joy and peace.

• Beautiful quotes from workshop participants about their transformative experiences.

• Astrid’s profound personal experiences as a result of the Soma ritual.

• How mentioning balance between mind, body, and spirit can enhance feelings of bliss.

• Insight into the Conscious Black Beauty Movement and its inclusion in the workshop.

• The unique integration of spiritual practices that fosters collaborative healing.

• Aspirations for the future of the Love Letters 2 Our Bodies project.

Quotes:

“We have a role in our consciousness and the thoughts that we put out there. The intentions that we set can change our lives. That has been my experience.” — Astrid Richardson-Ashley [0:06:43]

“We’re holding sacred space. You can feel it. It’s palpable – The women who [participate in these workshops] come back and they say, ‘Something happened here. I can feel it.’” — Astrid Richardson-Ashley [0:14:47]

“Intention has made a huge change in how my life has grown and evolved. I [now see] prayer as such. This is part of me co-creating with the universe, with the divine, to create the life that I want to have.” — Astrid Richardson-Ashley [0:32:44]

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Love Letters to Our Bodies Project

Astrid Richardson-Ashley on LinkedIn

California Black Health Network

Conscious Black Beauty Movement (CBBM)

Gwendolyn Mitchell on LinkedIn
MOYO Institute, Inc

Love Letters 2 Our Bodies is sponsored by Moyo Institute, Inc and the Lloyd Symington Foundation
Gwendolyn Mitchell on LinkedIn
MOYO Institute, Inc
instagram.com/moyoinstitute

According to the International Myeloma Foundation, African Americans in the US make up 20% of all multiple myeloma patients, despite comprising only 14% of the country’s population. While science has yet to find a cure, today’s guest, Valarie Traynham, is undeterred. A multiple myeloma thriver, breast cancer survivor, and patient leader, Valarie sheds light on health disparities and advocates for those who cannot speak for themselves. Diagnosed at just 42, she shares her personal journey through the often-overlooked symptoms of this rare blood cancer, the challenges African Americans often face in receiving timely diagnoses, and the critical role of early intervention. Valarie’s experience has empowered her to become a community educator and advocate, emphasizing the importance of mental resilience and self-care. Tune in to hear how she transformed a devastating diagnosis into a powerful story of healing and purpose. Her message is a beacon of hope for anyone confronting life’s toughest challenges, and her unwavering commitment to both her own wellbeing and the wellbeing of others is truly remarkable. You won’t want to miss this inspiring conversation!

Key Points From This Episode:

• The story of how Valarie found out that she had multiple myeloma.

• What multiple myeloma is, what its causes are, and why it isn’t a death sentence.

• CRAB criteria for diagnosing myeloma and how its symptoms may present.

• The prevalence of this incurable disease in the African American population.

• Difficulties that many African Americans encounter in obtaining a timely diagnosis.

• Living with multiple myeloma: the critical role of acceptance, hope, and self-care.

• How Valarie’s cancer diagnosis helped her discover her purpose in life.

• The importance of connecting with others who have gone through similar experiences.

• Destigmatizing mental wellbeing for cancer patients in the Black community.

Quotes:

“When you accept it, then you can move past it.” — @MyelomaValarie [0:13:43]

“I can honestly say that [cancer] is the best thing that happened to me. [Through] dealing with cancer, I found my purpose – Had I not been dealt the cancer hand, I would not have found my purpose.” — @MyelomaValarie [0:15:15]

“To my Black sisters, you are enough. You don’t have to be all things to everybody. Take care of yourself. Self-care is just realizing that you are who you are. That’s self-acceptance and seeing the value that you hold. You are worthy.” — @MyelomaValarie [0:20:55]

“To my Black brothers, it’s okay not to be okay. You don’t always have to be that tough, manly man because you’re going through things. Let that guard down and let somebody in.” — @MyelomaValarie [0:21:15]

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Valarie Traynham on Instagram

Valarie Traynham on Facebook

Valarie Traynham on X

Valarie Traynham Email

Black Myeloma Health Community

Love Letters 2 Our Bodies is sponsored by Moyo Institute, Inc and the Lloyd Symington Foundation
Gwendolyn Mitchell on LinkedIn
MOYO Institute, Inc
instagram.com/moyoinstitute

What if your greatest challenge became the key to unlocking your true purpose? In this inspiring episode, we’re joined by internationally renowned motivational speaker, personal trainer, and triathlete Erin “Bionic” Brown, who turned a life-altering tragedy into a story of triumph. After losing her leg to cancer at a young age, Erin embarked on a journey that propelled her into a life of empowerment and advocacy. Today, she is a passionate advocate for adaptive sports, encouraging others to overcome life’s obstacles with courage and determination. As a mother, athlete, and mentor, Erin draws on her personal experiences to promote resilience, authenticity, and self-advocacy. Tune in for an uplifting conversation about finding your purpose and the courage it takes to be unapologetically yourself. Erin’s story will remind you that no matter how difficult life gets, you have the strength to rise, grow, and make a lasting impact!

Key Points From This Episode:

• A candid account of Erin’s experience with cancer, amputation, and treatment.

• The story of how she met someone in the airport who changed the course of her life.

• Why she chose not to cover or change the appearance of her prosthetic limb.

• Ways that Erin’s self-advocacy journey propelled her to discover her “divine purpose.”

• The profound lesson she has learned about the power of authenticity and self-love.

• How she hopes to inspire young people who lack role models that look like them.

• Community initiatives and educational projects that she is involved in right now.

• The lived experiences, resources, and safe spaces Erin has been able to create.

• Inspiring advice to help you to continue to show up, even when times are tough.

Quotes:

“It’s okay to be 1,000% you in every shape, color, mood, feeling, expression.” — Erin Brown [0:14:12]

“Something that [people] may have seen as – so tragic and life-altering for me – was transformed into something that was absolutely needed for me to get to this point.” — Erin Brown [0:16:08]

“Lean into the belief that your voice is valuable. Your value is not tied to anyone’s narrative or anyone’s experience of you. Your value is tied into what you are prepared to stand on, to define yourself as, and what you answer to.” — Erin Brown [0:25:02]

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Erin Brown

Erin Brown on Instagram

Erin Brown on Facebook

Gwendolyn Mitchell on LinkedIn

Love Letters to Our Bodies

Love Letters to Our Bodies Online Workshop

Love Letters 2 Our Bodies is sponsored by Moyo Institute, Inc and the Lloyd Symington Foundation
Gwendolyn Mitchell on LinkedIn
MOYO Institute, Inc
instagram.com/moyoinstitute