Taking off the Mask: My Lifelong Battle with Depression [Solo Ep]

⚠️ Hey BA fam, before we jump in, just a heads-up: today we’ll be talking about depression and mental health. These topics matter and can hit close to home. What you’ll hear is real talk, but it’s not medical advice—we’re sharing stories and information, not diagnoses. If you or someone you care about needs support, please reach out. You can call or text 988anytime for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or visit 988lifeline.org for free, confidential help. You’re never alone, and there’s always hope. In this week’s episode, Mandi gets real about something she’s been holding close for a long time her battle with depression. After years of pushing through and showing up for everyone else, Mandi opens up about what it’s like to live with high-functioning depression, the pressure to keep performing, and the exhaustion that comes from pretending to be okay. She talks about losing her rhythm after Tiffany left the show, dealing with career setbacks, and the toll motherhood and burnout have taken on her mind and body. this isn’t a “how I fixed it” story, it’s an honest look at what it means to stop hiding, ask for help, and start healing in real time. 🧠 What We Talk About Living with high-functioning depression and burnout How motherhood, career changes, and loss reshaped her mental health journey Letting go of perfection and showing up without the mask Finding small ways to prioritize rest, healing, and self-compassion 📬 Connect Follow us on IG: @brownambitionpodcastEmail: [email protected] Mandi: @mandimoneySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Brown Ambition, Mandi sits down with Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist, author, and MSNBC contributor Trymaine Lee to discuss his powerful new book, A Thousand Ways to Die: The True Cost of Violence on Black Life in America. From reporting on Trayvon Martin and Ferguson to confronting his own family’s legacy of gun violence, Trymaine opens up about what happens when decades of unprocessed trauma take a physical toll. After surviving a near-fatal heart attack, he was forced to reckon with the emotional weight of his work — and the generational pain carried by so many Black families. Together, Mandi and Trymaine unpack what it means to be a storyteller, a parent, and a survivor in a world that often normalizes Black pain. They also explore the economic ripple effects of gun violence, the healing power of vulnerability, and how mindfulness, breathwork, and community have helped Trymaine reclaim peace. 📚 Resources Mentioned A Thousand Ways to Die: The True Cost of Violence on Black Life in America — by Trymaine Lee Hope in High Water: A People’s Recovery 20 Years After Hurricane Katrina — streaming now on Peacock Trymaine’s podcast: Into America (MSNBC) bookshop.org — to support Black and independent bookstores See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hey BA Fam! It’s been a minute, but Mandi, Yanely, and Chris are back at the table with a rich, reflective conversation on life, culture, and community. This week’s episode dives into how our identities, skills, and values shape the way we move through an ever-changing world. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Cultural Identity & Authenticity — Why staying true to yourself matters, and how artists like Bad Bunny are redefining representation. Career & Soft Skills — The rising importance of adaptability, emotional intelligence, and networking in today’s job market. Economic Realities — How inflation and job market shifts are impacting mental health and career choices.  Mental Health & Creativity — The challenges creatives face in uncertain times and how community support makes all the difference.  Parenting & Politics — How to talk to kids about complex political and social issues with care and clarity. Community & Connection — Listener shoutouts, book recommendations, and personal stories that remind us we’re all growing together. Travel & Perspective — How exploring new cultures deepens empathy and reinforces the power of connection. This episode blends cultural commentary with practical advice and heartfelt storytelling — the perfect mix of real talk and inspiration. Whether you’re navigating career transitions, reflecting on your identity, or just need a reminder of the power of community, this one’s for you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week’s episode, we’re joined by the radiant and multi-talented Edwina Findley, actress, author, and faith-driven creative, for a deeply inspiring conversation about walking in purpose, trusting divine timing, and showing up for the vision on your life. From her early beginnings in Washington, D.C. to her breakout roles in Hollywood, Edwina shares how her journey has been shaped by faith, surrender, and community. She opens up about her new book, The World Is Waiting For You, a guide for anyone ready to step into their calling and manifest the dreams that have been placed on their heart. Together, we talk about:✨ What it really means to wait—and grow—in a “season of surrender”✨ The importance of surrounding yourself with people who speak life into you✨ How to recognize divine signs when you’re being called to pivot or level up✨ Why nurturing positivity (in yourself and the next generation) is a key to long-term success✨ Building multiple streams of income and embracing entrepreneurship as a form of purpose If you’ve ever felt like you’re in a holding pattern or you’re wondering how to turn your faith into forward motion, this conversation will remind you: the world is waiting for you to show up. Join the conversation:We’d love to hear how you’re embracing your calling! Drop us a note or tag us on social using #BrownAmbitionPodcastand let us know your biggest takeaway.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week’s episode, Mandi sits down with Lisa Cunningham, a powerhouse creative and the Head of Marketing at the Black Women’s Health Imperative, to unpack her incredible journey from directing music videos to becoming a champion for health equity. Lisa shares how personal loss and self-discovery shaped her purpose, leading her to use storytelling as a tool for change—especially in women’s health. Through her documentary Me Period, she’s breaking down stigmas around menstruation and helping young women and their caregivers access the knowledge and confidence they deserve. Together, Mandi and Lisa dive into what it really means to prioritize your health, wealth, and wellness—and how those three things are deeply connected. They discuss:✨ The role women play as health advocates in their families✨ Why accurate health information is key to empowerment✨ How chronic disease prevention and epigenetics shape generational well-being✨ Navigating career pivots with purpose and financial confidence✨ The importance of community and partnership in personal growth Mentioned on the show:  Watch Me Period: https://kinema.com/ BA Fam, Let’s Connect! Join the conversation on IG: @brownambitionpodcast Share the episode and tag us — we love seeing your takeaways! Don’t forget to subscribe, rate & review to keep spreading the ambition. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The U.S. housing market feels impossible to navigate — high prices, rising taxes, low inventory, and mortgage rates that just won’t budge. This week on Brown Ambition, Mandi sits down with Daryl Fairweather, Chief Economist at Redfin, to cut through the noise and explain what’s really going on. From the “lock-in effect” keeping homeowners stuck, to why renting may actually be more affordable than buying in many cities, Daryl offers insights grounded in both data and behavioral economics. She also shares practical advice for first-time buyers, discusses the hidden costs of homeownership, and explores how systemic challenges continue to impact Black and Brown communities. And before she goes, Daryl gives us a sneak peek into her new book Hate the Game: Economic Cheat Codes for Life, Love and Work — an empowering take on how to use economics to outsmart unfair systems and claim your wins. What You’ll Hear in This Episode: Why so many homeowners feel “stuck” with low-rate mortgages The growing affordability gap between buying and renting How return-to-office mandates are reshaping housing choices The hidden costs of owning a home (taxes, insurance, maintenance) Programs that can help first-time and minority buyers How zoning and local government decisions impact affordability Why Black households are seeing declining homeownership rates Insights from Daryl’s new book Hate the Game BA Fam, Let’s Connect! Join the conversation on IG: @brownambitionpodcast Share the episode and tag us — we love seeing your takeaways! Don’t forget to subscribe, rate & review to keep spreading the ambition. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it look like to redefine family and build a support system rooted in friendship? In this episode of Brown Ambition, host Mandi Woodruff-Santos sits down with NPR’s Ayesha Rascoe and her best friend Jasmin Melvin Hudson to talk about their bold decision to buy a home together and raise their five children under one roof. From meeting as young journalists to becoming inseparable best friends, Ayesha and Jasmin share how their bond evolved into a life partnership centered on co-parenting, financial teamwork, and unconditional support. They open up about navigating shared responsibilities, creating stability for their kids, and what it means to build a family outside of traditional norms. This inspiring conversation dives into: The origin of their friendship and how it deepened over time Deciding to co-purchase a home and their approach to ownership & finances Parenting five kids together and creating a loving, stable household Balancing personal dating lives while keeping their family core strong Handling assumptions from outsiders about their unique arrangement Why building your own “village” can be the key to surviving today’s economic and social pressures Whether you’re a parent, considering alternative paths to homeownership, or just curious about how two best friends are rewriting the rules of family, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on love, community, and resilience. Links & Resources: Follow Ayesha & Jasmin’s journey on Instagram: @under1roofff Keep up with Mandi on IG/Twitter: @mandimoney BA Fam, Let’s Connect! Join the conversation on IG: @brownambitionpodcast Share the episode and tag us — we love seeing your takeaways! Don’t forget to subscribe, rate & review to keep spreading the ambition. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Brown Ambition, Mandi sits down with Cheryl McKissick Daniel — President and CEO of McKissick & McKissick, the oldest Black- and women-owned design and construction firm in the U.S. With five generations of legacy behind her, Cheryl has literally changed skylines while paving the way for women and people of color in an industry that wasn’t built for us. In this inspiring conversation, Cheryl shares: The journey behind her new book, The Black Family Who Built America: The McKissicks, Two Centuries of Daring Pioneers. How her mother courageously took over the family business after tragedy struck. Lessons from navigating a male- and white-dominated industry while building relationships and leading with integrity. The power of resilience, prayer, and community when starting from scratch in New York. Personal stories of overcoming health scares and why legacy and family history matter more than ever. From stories of scrappy entrepreneurship in a Manhattan walk-up to multimillion-dollar projects like the Barclays Center and JFK Airport, Cheryl offers both blueprint and inspiration for anyone determined to build their own table—and their own legacy. Key Takeaways: Legacy isn’t inherited, it’s built—brick by brick, generation by generation. Relationships and integrity are as valuable as technical skills in business. Women have always been at the forefront of resilience and innovation, even when history tries to erase them. Creating your own family tree can be a powerful way to honor where you’ve come from and inspire the next generation. Resources & Mentions: Cheryl McKissick Daniel’s book: The Black Family Who Built America McKissick & McKissick projects: Barclays Center, Harlem Hospital Center, JFK Terminal One See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back for a special episode 10 years in the making. Today, Mandi unpacks the real cost of speaking out in a climate where your voice can cost you your job, especially if you’re a Black woman. She celebrates 10 years of Brown Ambition (yes, 800+ episodes!), but the focus quickly shifts to the headlines: journalists, teachers, and professionals are losing their livelihoods for what they say online, with Karen Attiah (Washington Post) as just the latest in a chilling pattern. SAVE THE DATE: sign up for Mandi’s free AI & Careers webinar (September 25, 8pm ET). This episode is a reminder: Your voice is power. Protect it, plan for it, and—when you can—use it. Karen Attiah on SubstackSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Brown Ambition, Mandi welcomes back powerhouse guest Jannese Torres entrepreneur, author of Financially Lit, host of the award-winning Yo Quiero Dinero podcast, and now, a new mom. Together, Mandi and Jannese sit at the “Brown Table” to get real about: How motherhood reshapes entrepreneurship, boundaries, and time management Breaking free from people-pleasing and stepping fully into self-advocacy Why owning your platform (through blogging, newsletters, and websites) is still critical in 2025 The truth about monetizing blogs: ads, SEO, and building passive income the right way Navigating social media overwhelm while protecting your mental health Jannese’s journey from six-figure engineer to six-figure food blogger and financial educator You’ll hear candid reflections on the messy balance of career, family, and identity—and why building digital real estate can change your financial future. Links and Resources: Connect with Jannese on IG: @YoQuieroDineroPodcast Learn more about Financially Lit and her courses: yoquierodineropodcast.com Sign up for her Blogging Bootcamp (open until Sept 22!) 👉 Don’t forget to check out BrownAmbitionPodcast.com for more career and money tips.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.