Wise Black Nanas

The Wise Black Nanas continue their celebration of everyday people living extraordinary lives. Meet Joe Lewis, retired Master Sergeant of the United States Air Force and Army Reserve, and a devoted husband, father, grandfather, friend, colleague, and community supporter. Listening to Joe is like watching history come alive. Through stories of his life and work in the San Francisco Bay Area during a very different era, Joe takes us on a journey shaped by family, faith, friendship, music, and a lifelong commitment to helping others. What gives life meaning and purpose? How can each of us make a difference? Joe’s story offers a glimpse into one remarkable life, the people and experiences that shaped it, and the lasting impact one person can have along the way. Join the Nanas for an inspiring conversation about a life well lived, and the extraordinary possibilities found in everyday acts of kindness, connection, and service.

The Wise Black Nanas never tire of sharing their stories. With the help of special guest interviewer Michele Caron, founder of MyLifeCoach.com, Dr. Sharla opens up even more about the events that have shaped her life and what may lie ahead. Some paths are chosen. Others are created by circumstance. In this deeply personal conversation, Dr. Sharla reflects on difficult times at work and at home, the ups and downs of life, disappointments and triumphs, illness and loss, joy and inspiration. Where does inner strength come from when things do not work out the way we hoped? What do we do when life simply feels unfair? And how do we find the courage to keep moving forward? Sometimes, the answer is to just keep on living. Dr. Sharla shows us what is possible when we move forward with determination, strength and grace.

Juneteenth 2026 is shaping up to be a memorable one, with exciting developments that reflect just how far the celebration and recognition of this important day have come. Before you make your plans for this year’s observance, join the Nanas for a brief look at what’s happening in 2026 and why there is so much to celebrate. Then, revisit one of our most popular and enduring Juneteenth features as we explore the history, significance, and spirit of Juneteenth. Travel through generations of resilience, remembrance, and community as we trace the journey from Texas to the national stage. Along the way, you’ll meet familiar historical figures, discover a few new ones, and gain a deeper appreciation for why Juneteenth means so much to so many. Whether you’re learning about Juneteenth for the first time or returning to this story with fresh eyes, we invite you to reflect, celebrate, and be inspired to make Juneteenth every day.

In this episode, the Wise Black Nanas dive into the idea that risk isn’t just about big, dramatic life decisions, it’s woven into our everyday choices, relationships, and growth. Whether we realize it or not, we’re constantly navigating uncertainty, weighing outcomes, and deciding what feels worth it. As life coaches, Joanne and Dr. Sharla bring their lived experience, insight, and no-nonsense wisdom to the conversation. They explore how different people approach risk, what holds us back, and how we can move forward with more clarity and confidence. Along the way, Dr. Sharla shares a simple, practical concept she uses with clients to help make risk-taking feel more manageable and grounded. As well, she reveals some huge personal risks she took…find out if they were worth it! If you’ve ever found yourself hesitating, overthinking, or wondering whether to take that next step, this episode offers both perspective and encouragement to help you move forward.

When a Wise Black Nana is a Wise Black Brother. In this inspirational episode, the Nana’s continue their series “Where are the Good People?” They welcome a very special guest: Joanne’s real-life brother. A retired U.S. Marine and Vietnam-era veteran, beloved brother, husband, father, grandfather, and lifelong friend to his sister. He is also known for cooking some serious Southern cuisine, and Dr. Sharla has also been fortunate enough to be on the guest list for dinner at his house! It is a heartfelt conversation about resilience, perspective, and the wisdom that comes from lived experience. If you still sometimes wonder “Where the Good People Are”, this episode gives you a chance to spend time with one. Listening to his stories is a reminder that wisdom, strength, and goodness are still very much alive in the world.

Wise Black Nanas talk “Just For Fun”, reflecting on past and present memories. Just when you think you know the Nanas, Sharla and Joanne share more of their experiences that makes them laugh out loud. What makes you laugh? What fun memories do you hold? Listen in and laugh along with Wise Black Nanas. 

Wise Black Nanas welcomes Dr. Frances Christine Robinson, founder of A Prayer And Fasting Ministry, longtime friend of Dr. Sharla, and a cherished friend of the podcast. Dr. Robinson is a righteous, everyday Black woman who truly walks the talk of her faith, nurturing lifelong friendships and showing up for her community through teaching, ministering, counseling, and volunteer service. What keeps her grounded and moving forward? How has her “PK” experience shaped who she is today? And what matters most to her now? This conversation is rooted in wisdom, faith, service, and the quiet strength it takes to live your values out loud. To experience more of Dr. Robinson’s inspiration, call in live to join her service at A Prayer And Fasting Ministry, Sundays at 5 pm Eastern/4 pm Central/3 pm Mountain/2 pm Pacific. Call 1-848-220-3100, passcode 031825# . Email [email protected] for more information!

In this heartfelt episode, the Nanas revisit a cultural celebration that once echoed strongly through their communities—and one they’re ready to bring forward with intention. Kwanzaa may not be as widely observed as they remember, but its wisdom, values, and grounding feel more important than ever. Joanne and Dr. Sharla walk through the seven principles of Kwanzaa, sharing reflections on each day and why these ideas matter so deeply right now. From unity to purpose to collective work and responsibility, they explore how Kwanzaa can strengthen our families, our sense of identity, and our connection to one another. Whether you’ve celebrated Kwanzaa before or you’re curious about bringing it into your home for the first time, this episode is a warm invitation to reconnect with heritage, intention, and community—especially in these times. Tune in for culture, clarity, and a whole lot of Nana love.

The Wise Black Nanas are shining a light on friends and friendships, exploring what they mean, how they shape us, and why they matter. What makes a good friend? How do you know who is truly there for you? In this heartfelt episode, Dr. Sharla opens up about one of the most private and painful times in her life and how her friends helped her through it. Join the Nanas as they share stories, laughter, and lessons on finding, keeping, and being great friends at any age and at any stage of life. It is never too late to build deeper, more meaningful connections.

How often do we consciously or unconsciously utter “I’ll do it later, tomorrow, next week, next life?”. In this Episode, Wise Black Nanas take a closer look at this everyday action, or inaction. Is procrastination a real thing? What is procrastination and what keeps us from “doing it now?” Why do we procrastinate, at home at work, in all interactions and aspects of our lives? Can you guess which Nana is an admitted procrastinator? The Nanas suggest ways that we turn procrastination around. Or maybe we’ll do it later… Thank-you for listening! You can support the Nanas at https://wiseblacknanas.com/support