Awf The Record
Mona Kosar Abdi and Jeannette Reyes host candid conversations with industry disruptors and cultural tastemakers, exploring the intersection of media, culture, and society. The show lives between the news of the day and the group chat, offering an unfiltered perspective.
Episodes
I turned down $300K | WeezyWTF on Sex, Open Relationships & Building a Media Empire
How do you build a multimillion-dollar brand without watering yourself down?In this episode of Awf The Record, podcast powerhouse and entrepreneur WeezyWTF joins Mona and Jeannette for one of her most candid conversations yet. From launching Horrible Decisions as a side project while working in tech sales to building podcast studios, fitness brands, and a bestselling career, Weezy explains why aut
[Go Awf] Christiana Mbakwe Medina on Diddy, Tyra Banks & 2000s Hustle Culture
In this segment, Christiana Mebakwe Medina breaks down why our cultural standards around fame, work, and accountability have shifted since the 2000s. From Making the Band and Tyra Banks to Diddy, MeToo, Black Lives Matter, workplace power dynamics, and the rollback of DEI, Christiana explores how pop culture reflects the systems we live in, but rarely changes them without policy behind it. She cha
The Death Of Celebrity Mystique: What Bad Bunny, Beyoncé & The Kardashians Reveal About Modern Fame
In this episode of Awf the Record, culture critic and Pop Syllabus creator Christiana Mbakwe Medina joins Mona Kosar Abdi and Jeannette Reyes for a sharp, layered conversation on modern fame, celebrity mystique, pop culture, and the systems hiding underneath our favorite headlines.Using Bad Bunny, Beyoncé, The Kardashians, Tyra Banks, Diddy, Taylor Swift, Zendaya, Rihanna, Chappell Roan, Timothée
[Go Awf] Laura Coates on Why She Left Prosecution
In this powerful segment, Laura Coates opens up about her time as a federal prosecutor and the complicated reality of pursuing justice from inside the system. She reflects on why Black and brown communities deserve prosecutors who understand their lived experiences, the emotional weight of victim advocacy, and the courtroom moment involving a deportation warrant that shook her to her core. Laura s
Why Hard Work Isn’t Enough Anymore | CNN Anchor Laura Coates
On today’s Awf The Record, CNN anchor, attorney, and legal analyst Laura Coates joins the group chat for a powerful conversation about purpose, pivots, and what it really takes to build a life that feels true to you.Laura opens up about leaving the Department of Justice (DOJ), the moment her husband’s fear during a police stop became a wake-up call, and why “informational activism” became her way
[Go Awf] Jaz Turner on the Messy Middle of Becoming Your Best Self
In this segment, Jaz Turner gets honest about the “messy middle” of self-growth, the part that does not look like green juice, Pilates, or a perfectly curated morning routine. She shares how rebuilding starts with small daily choices like journaling, faith, movement, and learning how to pour into yourself first. From leaving law school to redefining self-care as a love letter to herself, Jaz remin
Glow Up Coach: A Step-By-Step Guide To Reinventing Yourself In 30 Days
What does a real glow up actually look like?In this episode of Awf The Record, Mona Kosar Abdi and Jeannette Reyes sit down with lifestyle entrepreneur and digital creator Jaz Turner, whose thoughtful approach to self-investment, wellness, and intentional living has built a global audience of more than one million followers.But Jaz’s story didn’t begin with morning routines and glow-up advice.Befo
[Go Awf] Eboni K. Williams Explains Why Relationships Are an Economy
In this segment from the Eboni K. Williams interview, Eboni breaks down why relationships, appearance, marriage, motherhood, and opportunity all operate within real social “marketplaces.” From Michelle Obama’s recent comments on appearance as currency to the controversy around advising women to prioritize partnership earlier, Eboni challenges listeners to think less about what feels fair and more
The #1 Way Women Lower Their Dating Currency | Eboni K. Williams
In this episode of AWF The Record, attorney, TV host, author, and Judge Eboni star Eboni K. Williams joins the group chat for an unfiltered conversation on dating standards, the infamous “bus driver” controversy, single motherhood by choice, and why she refuses to apologize for being clear about what she wants.From her time on Real Housewives of New York to navigating public backlash, Eboni opens
[Go Awf] Sergio Hudson on The Hidden Costs of Scaling a Fashion Brand
What does it really take to build a successful fashion brand?In this segment, fashion designer Sergio Hudson breaks down the reality of the fashion industry, from scaling a small brand to navigating luxury retail stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, and Neiman Marcus. He shares the hidden costs of production, the risks of wholesale, and why many fashion brands struggle to survive.This convers
Sergio Hudson: Michelle Obama, Beyoncé & The Brutal Truth About Black Designers
In this episode of AWF The Record, legendary fashion designer Sergio Hudson opens up about the journey from small-town South Carolina to dressing some of the most powerful women in the world, including Michelle Obama, Beyoncé, Kamala Harris, and Kendall Jenner.Known for his razor-sharp tailoring, sculpted silhouettes, and unapologetic glamour, Sergio gets candid about the defining moment that chan
[Go Awf] How Nick Cannon and Kevin Hart Helped Jess Hilarious Navigate a Cutthroat Industry
Who do you turn to when the industry gets brutal?In this segment, Jess Hilarious opens up about the mentors who helped shape her career, from Nick Cannon’s support to Kevin Hart’s unfiltered advice on handling controversy and staying authentic. She shares what she learned about navigating fame, dealing with criticism, and why not everyone deserves access to you.Jess also reflects on the importance
Jess Hilarious: Postpartum struggles, The Breakfast Club Tension, and Finding her Voice
In this episode of AWF The Record, Jess Hilarious opens up about the realities of postpartum, navigating a major career shift with The Breakfast Club, and what it actually takes to find your voice in an industry that’s constantly watching.From waking up at 3:30 AM for radio to becoming a published author, Jess reflects on her journey from viral comedian to mainstream media personality. She shares
[Go Awf] Rachel Lindsay on The Pressures & Realities of Being the First Black Bachelorette
In this episode, Rachel Lindsay gets real about what it was actually like to become the first Black Bachelorette. She talks about finding out while she was literally in the middle of a jury trial, getting thrown into late-night TV and Good Morning America, and the moment it hit her that life would never go back to “normal.” Rachel opens up about the pressure of representing Black America on such a
Rachel Lindsay: First Black Bachelorette Reveals What Really Happened in Her Marriage
On today’s episode of Awf The Record, Former Bachelorette Rachel Lindsay opens up about everything the audience didn’t see: navigating fame as the first Black lead, the pressure of representing an entire culture, and the reality behind a highly public marriage and divorce.From walking away from law for a life she never planned, to realizing love alone isn’t enough, Rachel shares the truth about id
[Go Awf] Your Top Plastic Surgery Questions Answered | Facelifts, Fillers, and Trends
What are people actually getting done… and why does everyone suddenly look younger?In this segment, Dr. Carl Truesdale breaks down the reality behind modern plastic surgery, from facelifts and fillers to the techniques behind today’s most natural-looking transformations. He explains why results have improved so dramatically, how trends are shaped by social media, and why the goal is no longer to l
Top Plastic Surgeon: The Secret Procedure Your Favorite Celebrity Is Hiding
What are celebrities actually getting done… and why does everyone suddenly look younger?In this episode of Awf The Record, top Beverly Hills facial plastic surgeon Dr. Carl Truesdale pulls back the curtain on modern plastic surgery, from facelifts and fillers to the “undetectable” glow ups taking over Hollywood.He breaks down the biggest misconceptions about plastic surgery, why natural results ar
[Go Awf] KevOnStage on Embracing Failure, Getting Cancelled, and Staying Relevant
What does failure really look like when you’re already successful?In this candid segment, KevOnStage breaks down why failure is not the opposite of success, it is the path to it. From deals falling apart to Hollywood saying no, Kevin shares the real story behind building a creator career in today’s digital landscape.He also opens up about getting dragged online, navigating cancel culture, and the
KevOnStage: on Failure, Fame, and Staying Relevant
What does it actually take to build a creative empire without losing yourself in the process?In this episode of Awf The Record, KevOnStage (Kevin Fredericks) gets real about the journey from posting skits online to building a full-scale media company. From viral success to real-life responsibilities, Kevin Fredericks opens up about what people don’t see behind the content.This is not just a conver
[Go Awf] Is the Golden Age of TV News Over?
What’s really happening to the news industry and what does it mean for your career?In this episode of Awf The Record, Mona Kosar Abdi and Jeannette Reyes reflect on the changing landscape of broadcast journalism, from shrinking opportunities and layoffs to the growing influence of social media and personal platforms. Drawing from their own experiences in the industry, they unpack the tension betwe
Why Nothing Ever Feels Like Enough
Why does nothing ever feel like enough even when you’re living the life you once prayed for?In this episode of Awf The Record, Jeannette and Mona unpack the hidden struggle behind high achievement, success, and constantly chasing the next milestone. From burnout and anxiety to journaling, therapy, and emotional patterns, this conversation gets real about what happens when you keep moving the goalp
[Go Awf] Jodie Taylor's 4-Step Glow Up Strategy to Become Your Next-Level Self
What does it actually take to glow up and transform your life?In this powerful segment of Awf The Record, Jodie Taylor breaks down the real psychology behind personal transformation, from self-image and confidence to physical changes and social capital. Drawing from concepts like Psycho-Cybernetics, she explains how your internal “self schema” shapes your reality and why true growth requires both
How To Become THAT Girl: Style, Dating Coaches & The Real Glow Up Formula
In this episode of Awf The Record, Jeannette Reyes and Mona Kosar Abdi sit down with Jodie Taylor, corporate strategist, DEI leader at Sony Music, and digital creator with over half a million followers, to unpack the strategy behind becoming your highest self.Jodie shares how a devastating season of loss, heartbreak, layoffs, and friendship breakups forced her to completely reevaluate her life. In
[Go Awf] Jay Manuel on The Truth About ANTM Makeovers
What really happens behind the scenes of reality TV?In this Awf The Record segment, Jay Manuel unpacks the truth behind one of the most talked-about parts of America’s Next Top Model: the makeovers.What began as genuine attempts to help contestants evolve their look quickly turned into something else entirely. As ratings grew and the show became more sensational, makeovers increasingly became stor
Jay Manuel: Top Model Scandals, Secrets & The Dark Side Of ANTM
What really happened behind the scenes of America’s Next Top Model?In this episode of Awf The Record, Mona Kosar Abdi and Jeannette Reyes sit down with fashion creative director, TV personality, and former America’s Next Top Model judge Jay Manuel for a raw and revealing conversation about the reality behind one of the most iconic reality shows of the 2000s.Jay opens up about the renewed public sc
[Go Awf] Why Being Sexy Feels So Uncomfortable for Women
Can confidence actually be learned?In this Awf The Record segment, Jeannette Reyes and Mona Kosar Abdi unpack a surprising lesson from a posing class that completely changed how they think about confidence, presence, and what it means to feel sexy.What started as a simple lesson on red carpet posing quickly turned into a deeper conversation about how women are taught to shrink themselves, move qui
How A Posing Class Taught Us Seduction
What does it actually mean to be sexy?In the Season 4 premiere of Awf The Record, Mona Kosar Abdi and Jeannette Reyes reunite in New York and quickly find themselves unpacking a bigger question than they expected: why does being sexy feel so uncomfortable for so many women?What starts as a simple posing class meant to help them feel more confident in photos turns into a deeper conversation about r
Thursdays Just Got a Whole Lot Better | Awf The Record Season 4 Official Trailer
The girls are back… and this time they’re not going anywhere.Season 4 of Awf The Record is officially here, and we’re going weekly.Every Thursday, Mona Kosar Abdi and Jeannette Reyes bring their newsroom instincts and group chat curiosity to the conversations everyone’s whispering about. From relationships and pop culture to trending headlines and the questions nobody wants to say out loud.The hon
[Go Awf] Unlearning Our "News Voice": Finding Ourselves After Journalism
Who are you when you’re no longer performing?In this raw and reflective segment, Mona Kosar Abdi and Jeannette Reyes unpack the emotional identity shift that comes with leaving journalism. From unlearning their “news voice” to confronting the fear of truly being seen, they share what it’s like to go from messenger to message — and why stepping into your voice is one of the bravest things you can d
[Go Awf] "Good Hair" Is a Lie: Yene Damtew on Deprogramming Hair ShameWhat even is “good hair”?
In this powerful segment, celebrity stylist Yene Damtew and Jeannette Reyes unpack the emotional weight so many Black women carry about their hair — from childhood salon trauma to being conditioned to see certain textures as “unmanageable.” Yene breaks down how she helps her clients deprogram shame, why the natural hair movement has been both a blessing and a battleground, and how true hair confid
[Go Awf] Visible but Voiceless: Andrea Lewis on The Real Story Behind Hazel from Degrassi
What happens when your character is seen, but your story isn’t?In this powerful segment, Andrea Lewis opens up about her experience on Degrassi — playing Hazel, one of the few Black characters on the show, and what it felt like to be visible but voiceless. She reflects on the lack of cultural authenticity in Hazel’s storyline, the toll it took on her confidence, and how it fueled her to create The
[Go Awf] The Art of Quiet Power: Melyssa Ford on Confidence, Sensuality & Setting Boundaries
How do you stay empowered and sensual in a world that wants to box you in?In this powerful segment, Melyssa Ford gets real about the exit ramp from video vixen fame, reclaiming her narrative, and the intentional ways she moved through public spaces to protect her peace. She shares how she modeled herself after women like Claire Huxtable, Lena Horne, and Sade, and what it really means to master qui
How to Audit Your Year & Reset with Intention
Today, this candid and reflective episode of Awf The Record is your go-to year-end reset. Jeannette and Mona ditch the highlight reel to unpack what 2025 really looked like: burnout, blurred boundaries, constant “work mode,” and the pressure to overachieve.They break down the habits that kept them running on fumes, unpack the immigrant-kid conditioning that glorifies exhaustion, and reveal the sma
[Go Awf] Ozempic: Miracle Drug or Just Hype? What You Need to Know About GLP-1s
Is Ozempic really the weight loss solution we’ve been waiting for or is it more complicated than that?In this must-listen segment, Dr. Darien Sutton breaks down the truth behind Ozempic and GLP-1 medications; what they actually do, who they’re for, and why obesity is much more than a matter of willpower. From Serena Williams headlines to the science of chronic weight gain, this convo dives into th
Being a Woman in the Public Eye: The Beauty & Burden of Being Seen | Best of Awf The Record
There’s power in being seen… but there’s also pressure.In this “Best-Of” episode, we explore the beauty and the burden of being a woman in the public eye. Through deeply personal stories of fame, identity, grief, and cultural expectations, these guests reflect on what it means to be visible… and misunderstood. This episode is for every woman who’s ever felt picked apart, underestimated, or praised
[Go Awf] Breaking Into Journalism When You Don’t Know Where to Start
How do you nurture a big dream, especially when you don’t have a roadmap?In this listener Q&A segment, Jeannette Reyes and Mona Kosar Abdi share what it was like becoming journalists as daughters of immigrants, and how they found their voices in an industry where they didn’t always see themselves reflected. From reading scripts off an iPad in the living room to landing anchor desks, they refl
Leaving Your Dream Job for Your Next Dream Job | Best of Awf The Record
What if your dream job wasn’t the dream anymore?In this special “Best-Of” episode, we’re revisiting four powerful stories about career pivots, evolving purpose, and letting go of the identities we once held onto. From childhood fame to corporate boardrooms, these guests opened up about what it really means to outgrow the path you thought was permanent.Whether you're feeling stuck, scared to s
[Go Awf] When Your Dream Job Isn’t Enough Anymore: Why Imani Ellis Left NBC to Build CultureCon
What happens when your dream job can’t hold your purpose anymore?In this unfiltered segment, Imani Ellis, founder of CultureCon and The Creative Collective NYC, shares the real story behind her decision to leave NBC. From working 18-hour days to building a movement out of her living room, she opens up about burnout, identity shifts, and how she knew it was time to choose herself.If you’ve ever fel
How to Stop Hiding and Win by Being the Real You w/ Taryn Delanie Smith
From Beauty Queen to Comedy Queen—Taryn Delanie-Smith proves that reinvention isn’t just possible—it’s powerful. This week, Jeannette and Mona sit down with Taryn Delanie-Smith—comedian, content creator, and former Miss New York—who turned a viral TikTok into a thriving career.Taryn shares how she went from pursuing diplomacy to building a comedy empire, including the hilarious (and sometimes chao
[Go Awf] When Your Kinks Don’t Match... Sex Therapist Explains How to Ask for What You Want in Bed
In this spicy segment, licensed sex therapist Marissa Nelson breaks down what happens when partners have very different sexual desires including kinks, fantasies, and preferences most people are too afraid to admit out loud. From foot fetishes to roleplay to exploring the “awkward intimacy” necessary for real connection, Marissa explains why desire evolves over time and how couples can bridge the
Corporate Baddie DeAndre Brown on Leaving Investment Banking for TikTok Fame
In this episode of Awf The Record, DeAndre Brown – aka the original “The Corporate Baddie” – gets real about leaving investment banking to become a full-time content creator. From viral TikToks and six-figure brand deals to burnout, reinvention, and building a brand with purpose, this episode peels back the curtain on what it really takes to pivot from 9-to-5 to FYP.He shares the lessons he learn
[Go Awf] The Promotion Didn't Happen... Rejection, Redirection, and What’s Meant for You
In this honest, reflective segment, Mona opens up about the moment she thought her journalism career had peaked and how that rejection led to a redirection she never saw coming. With Jeannette by her side, they unpack the grief of missed opportunities, the quiet ways imposter syndrome shows up, and why the “no” might actually be the greatest gift.If you’re in a season of transition, disappointment
Burnout, Brand Deals & Building Life After News
This episode flips the script… literally.In a candid, behind-the-scenes Q&A, Jeannette and Mona sit down with their podcast producer to answer the questions they don’t usually get asked on air. From the burnout that led to leaving legacy media to how they really feel about brand deals, content creation, and modern relationships, nothing’s off limits.If you’ve ever wondered how two former news
The Biggest Hair Myth, Texturism, and the Pressure to Be Perfect
Celebrity hairstylist and salon owner Yene Damtew joins us to talk about the real work behind “good hair,” the pressures Black women face around beauty standards, and what it was really like doing Michelle Obama’s hair at the White House and beyond. From the rise of Instagram stylists to the myths around natural hair, Yene gets brutally honest about the hair industry, client relationships, and why
Andrea Lewis on Life After Degrassi, Burnout, and Becoming a Boss
You may know Andrea Lewis as Hazel from Degrassi — but that was just the beginning.In this powerful episode of Awf The Record, Andrea opens up about the transition from being one of the few Black girls on TV to becoming a writer, director, and multi-hyphenate creative building space for others to shine. From identity to independence, creative control to burnout, Andrea gets real about what it take
Melyssa Ford: The Original Video Vixen on Fame, Fear, and Finding Herself
“The line is drawn when you’re not in control of it. The ownership, agency, and empowerment factor comes from putting the price tag on your own image and likeness.” Melyssa Ford is stepping out of the image, the headlines, and the hype - and into her truth.In this powerful and unfiltered episode of Awf The Record, Melyssa opens up about what it really meant to be “the video vixen,” the trauma of b
Ozempic Explained: Food Noise, Sex Drive, & Side Effects with Dr. Darien Sutton
Is Ozempic a game-changer or just the next quick fix?In this episode of Awf The Record, Jeannette and Mona are joined by Dr. Darien Sutton, an ABC News medical correspondent and emergency room physician, for a deep dive into the complex, controversial world of GLP-1 medications, Ozempic, and the science (and stigma) behind obesity.They break down everything you’ve been hearing [and seeing] online
Real Advice for Real Life Transitions
The group chat is wide open... and y’all did not hold back.In this solo episode, Jeannette and Mona answer voice notes directly from YOU! Tune in as they give their most honest, heartfelt, and hilarious advice on everything from bold career pivots to how to survive motherhood and find your peace. It’s giving: group chat, girl talk, and big sister wisdom all in one.Whether you're navigating bu
Imani Ellis: The Truth About Leaving Your Dream Job
From her dream job at Bravo to building one of the most powerful creative communities in the country, Imani Ellis is the visionary founder behind CultureCon and The Creative Collective NYC. In this episode, she sits down with Jeannette and Mona to share the real story behind her bold pivot from corporate life to creative entrepreneurship - including the fear, obsession, burnout, and self-trust it
Why You’re Not Having the Sex You Want
This is not just a sex talk- it’s a whole intimacy intervention.In this jaw-dropping, laugh-out-loud, deeply healing episode of Awf The Record, Jeannette and Mona welcome licensed couples & sex therapist Marissa Nelson to the group chat… and let’s just say: nothing was off limits.From the orgasm gap to scheduling sex, soul ties to underwater escapades (yes, really), Marissa breaks down the myt
How to Pivot When Life Doesn’t Go as Planned
The group chat is back, and we’re kicking off Season 3 with the realest catch-up yet. Jeannette Reyes and Mona Kosar Abdi sit down to unpack a summer filled with unplanned pivots, unexpected lessons, and major perspective shifts.From navigating a painful career rejection to juggling pregnancy timelines, family expectations, media burnout and motherhood pressure, this episode is for anyone feeling
Awf The Record Season 3 Official Trailer
It’s finally here: Season 3 of Awf The Record, the unapologetically real podcast from Jeannette Reyes and Mona Kosar Abdi.This season, we’re going even deeper with emotional confessions, viral-worthy breakdowns, and unfiltered takes on Black womanhood, sex, therapy, identity, and healing. From hair trauma and awkward intimacy to pleasure, purpose, and poppin’ your sh*t unapologetically, Season 3 i
The Group Chat Gets Messier | S3 Sneak Peek | Awf The Record
It’s finally here: Season 3 of Awf The Record, the unapologetically real podcast from Jeannette Reyes and Mona Kosar Abdi.This season, we’re going even deeper with emotional confessions, viral-worthy breakdowns, and unfiltered takes on Black womanhood, sex, therapy, identity, and healing. From hair trauma and awkward intimacy to pleasure, purpose, and poppin’ your sh*t unapologetically, Season 3 i
[Go Awf] How The News Industry Shaped Us (And Nearly Broke Us)
Mona and Jeannette open up about the emotional toll that working in the news industry took on their mental health. From the impossible hours and sleepless nights to the heartbreaking stories they had to cover, both reflect on the weight of constantly witnessing tragedy up close. Mona shares how the pressure she placed on herself to reach “network level” success pushed her to physical and mental li
[Go Awf] What We Wish We Knew as Young Journalists
What would you tell your 22-year-old self chasing the dream? In this segment, Jeannette and Mona get real about ambition, imposter syndrome, and the unnecessary pressure we put on ourselves to prove we belong. From newsroom nerves to learning how to enjoy the ride, they open up about the grind, the growth, and the freedom that comes when you finally stop doubting yourself.RESOURCES: Keep in touch
How to STOP Caring What People Think
In this deeply personal season finale, Jeannette and Mona take off the armor and speak straight from the heart. What starts as a conversation about vulnerability quickly unravels into a much bigger exploration of fear, identity, legacy, and healing. From life coaches and mindset breakthroughs to childhood trauma, grief, and the fear of criticism, this is the kind of talk that doesn’t just stay in
[Go Awf] How To Become Irresistible
How do you become irresistible? In this no-fluff conversation, dating and relationship expert Anwar White breaks down how true confidence, time boundaries, and a CEO mindset in your love life can completely shift your dating experience. From when to go exclusive to when it's time to walk away, this segment is your blueprint for dating with power, purpose, and self-respect. Sis, it’s time to s
Best of Friendship & Loneliness: Where Did Our Community Go?
What does it really take to have deep, meaningful friendships over time? In this best-of episode, Mona and Jeannette revisit some of the most vulnerable, hilarious, and insightful moments from past conversations about friendship—the joy, the heartbreak, and the unspoken tension in between.From childhood wounds and attachment styles to apology dynamics and growing pains, these clips explore how we
[Go Awf] You Need THIS Picture On Your Dating Profile
Dating app strategy is more real than you think—and timing is everything. In this spicy segment, Mona and Jeannette sit down with dating expert Anwar White to get the unfiltered tea on when not to be on the apps, why January is prime time for dating, and how your location (especially in places like California and Texas) can make or break your dating pool. They also dive into race dynamics, shiftin
Best of Dating Awf The Record: Love, Stats & Self-Worth
In this special best-of episode, Jeannette and Mona revisit the raw, revealing, and sometimes hilarious conversations they've had with experts and friends about dating, love, and the realities of marriage. From navigating modern romance and dating apps to unpacking divorce red flags and cultural double standards, this episode delivers hard truths and big-sis wisdom alike.Whether you're s
[Go Awf] Convenience Is Killing Your Friendships
In this insightful segment, we explore how society’s shift towards convenience has led to a decline in genuine friendships and community connections. Dating back to the 1950s, we discuss how the rise of television changed the way we interact and how the advent of smartphones in 2012 further fueled isolation. The pandemic may have exacerbated these trends, but they were already decades in the makin
Best of Big Sis Advice: Lessons That Hit Different Now
In this special best-of episode of Awf The Record, Mona and Jeannette bring together the realest advice and most unforgettable gems from past conversations that still hit hard. From redefining success to setting boundaries with family, pivoting careers to reclaiming joy, these are the truths that only get better with time.You’ll hear reflections on burnout, letting go of outdated family expectatio
[Go Awf] The Danger of Making Your Partner Your Only Friend
Is your partner your only friend? Dr. Marisa G. Franco joins the conversation to explore the hidden costs of relying solely on romantic relationships for connection. From the science of friendship to the power of confrontation, this segment dives into why strong friendships make us better partners—and how avoiding conflict can actually harm our closest bonds.GUEST RESOURCES: Dr. Marisa G. Franco I
Q&A: From Newsroom Drama to Therapy Sessions
In this special Q&A episode of Awf The Record, Jeannette and Mona are putting the scripts down and pulling the curtain back. You asked, so they answered - nothing is off limits.From what inspired them to launch the podcast, to how their friendship has shifted in the spotlight, this conversation is full of raw reflections, inside jokes, and unfiltered truth. They talk about balancing ambition w
[Go Awf] I Love My Hubby But I’m Not Sharing Him
Is it possible to be your true self without giving too much away? In this conversation, we dive into the fine line between being authentic and protecting your private life. Taryn opens up about why she feels responsible for showing up fully—flaws, quirks, and all—while keeping the most sacred parts of her life off-limits. From handling online scrutiny to setting personal boundaries, this is a raw
This Harvard Grad Quit the Dream Job — Here’s Why
Objection overruled: She didn’t just take a leap of faith—she appealed to her true calling.Today’s Awf The Record guest, Eni Popoola, had all the receipts for a high-powered legal career: Harvard undergrad, Columbia Law, and a coveted position at a top law firm. But what happens when the courtroom starts to feel less like a stage and more like a cage? In this bold and unapologetic episode, Eni ope
[Go Awf] Why Do People Secretly Hate When You Change
What happens when you change your mind—and people feel betrayed by it? In this candid conversation, we unpack the pressure to stick with a career (or identity) because others expect it from you. From the weight of family expectations to the fear of seeming "flaky," we dive into the emotional toll of evolving and choosing a new path—even when the world isn’t ready for your change.RESOURCE
Bitter Exes, Fake Friends, And Embracing The Cringe
If only we knew then what we know now… but at least we’re saying it out loud now.In this deeply personal and wildly relatable episode of Awf The Record, Jeannette and Mona rewind the tape in their 20s and 30s to share the lessons they wish someone had told them. From learning to speak up in rooms that made them question their worth, to letting go of friendships, careers, and relationships that no
[Go Awf] First Crush Horror Stories & Most Painful Rejections
First crushes are brutal—and we’ve got the embarrassing receipts to prove it. From awkward outfits gone wrong to accidentally roasting a crush on voicemail, this episode is full of cringe, chaos, and questionable fashion choices. Would you call your old crush today and get your revenge? Would you survive hearing them call you ugly? We relive our most mortifying middle school moments, and honestly…
The Secret To Becoming Irresistible - From A Top Dating Coach
Dating isn’t just about having chemistry or “vibes”—it’s actually data. In this eye-opening episode of Awf The Record, dating and relationship expert Anwar White joins Jeannette and Mona to break down the real numbers behind modern dating—and why Black and Brown women need a different playbook.From match rates to money, Anwar exposes the hard truths about dating in today’s age: how systemic issues
[Go Awf] Divorce Attorney: “Love isn’t the only thing that keeps a marriage together”
Divorce attorneys have seen it all—messy breakups, unexpected betrayals, and some truly questionable decisions. In this segment, we get into the real reasons people stay too long, file too soon, or should’ve walked away years ago. From high-powered professionals trapped in toxic marriages to clients who expect their lawyer to be their personal attack dog, we’re breaking down the biggest red flags,
Why We Struggle to Make (and Keep) Friends
Making friends shouldn’t feel like a mystery—but in today’s world, it often does.In this episode, Dr. Marisa G. Franco, psychologist and New York Times best-selling author of Platonic, joins Mona and Jeannette to break down the science of friendship. She explores how technology, convenience culture, and societal expectations have fueled an epidemic of loneliness—while also revealing the keys to bu
[Go Awf] Why Kamie Crawford really left Catfish and the rumors she was fired
Kamie Crawford has built a career on confidence, honesty, and speaking her mind. But what happens when you start questioning everything? From dealing with toxic industry standards to making the hardest decision of her career, Kamie gets real about the lessons she’s learned along the way—plus, the one piece of advice she wishes she knew sooner.GUEST RESOURCES Kamie Crawford IG | @kamiecrawfordRESOU
Taryn: Funny is Sexy, Girlhood and Being Miss New York.
From Beauty Queen to Comedy Queen—Taryn Delanie-Smith proves that reinvention isn’t just possible—it’s powerful. This week, Jeannette and Mona sit down with Taryn Delanie-Smith—comedian, content creator, and former Miss New York—who turned a viral TikTok into a thriving career.Taryn shares how she went from pursuing diplomacy to building a comedy empire, including the hilarious (and sometimes chao
[Go Awf] Rebrand Without Losing Yourself (The Hard Truth)
Trying to change everything all at once? That might be what's holding you back. In this segment with Les from Balanced Black Girl, we talk about the power of focusing on one thing at a time—whether it's building a new habit, embodying a new mindset, or working toward a goal. Small, consistent steps are the real game-changer, not overnight transformations. Plus, we dive into personal stor
Strict Parents, Bathroom Lunches, and Judge Judy
Before Awf the Record, before the mics, and before the viral moments—who were Mona and Jeannette?In this episode, they get real about their upbringings, family expectations, and the cultural influences that shaped them. From Mona’s strict Somali academic upbringing in San Diego to Jeannette’s Dominican roots in Providence, they reflect on the highs, lows, and awkward phases that made them who they
The Power of Rebranding, Staying Consistent and Building Habits
What does it really take to rebrand your life? In this episode of Awf The Record, Mona and Jeannette sit down with Les Alfred, host of the Balanced Black Girl podcast, to talk about reinvention, discipline, and stepping into the person you want to be.Les shares her journey of rebranding—not as a one-time makeover, but as a daily commitment to intentional growth. She dives into the mindset shifts t
Red Flags You Should Never Ignore Before Marriage
Is happily ever after just a fairy tale? Or is marriage set up to fail from the start? With over half of marriages ending in divorce, it’s a question worth asking. On this episode of Awf the Record, Jeannette and Mona sit down with family law attorney Tracey Coates to get real about marriage, divorce, and everything in between.From the biggest red flags people ignore before saying "I do"
[Go Awf] Our Unspoken Friendship Tension.. Bring It Up or Let It Go?
Friendships don’t always come with big fights—sometimes, it’s just a quiet shift, a gut feeling, or an unspoken tension. In this segment, we unpack how small moments can define the strength of a friendship, why apologies sometimes feel like power shifts, and how learning to communicate in relationships can transform the way we show up for our friends.RESOURCES: Keep in touch with Awf The Record:Yo
Kamie Crawford: Catfish Chaos, Controversy, Career Pivots
What happens when you walk away from a hit show at the peak of your career? Kamie Crawford knows firsthand.In this episode, Mona and Jeannette pull up a seat with Kamie for an unfiltered conversation about life after Catfish, navigating the pressures of fame, and embracing the next chapter—on her own terms. Kamie spills on everything from her early days as Miss Teen USA (and the intense pageant pr
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