Witnessing Greatness: Lessons from My Brother’s PGA Journey

This July was one for the books. I had the incredible joy of watching my brother, Marcus Byrd, compete in the ISCO Championship PGA tournament — standing alongside my mom and daughter, three generations cheering him on with pride.

Watching him walk that course, focused and calm, reminded me of what dedication really looks like. Success doesn’t happen overnight; it’s built in the quiet moments when no one’s watching. It’s a daily choice to show up, practice, and believe.

It also reminded me that family wins are personal wins. As women who lead and nurture others, we often forget to slow down and celebrate the victories — both ours and theirs. Watching my brother shine in his element filled my heart with gratitude and motivation.

✨ Your encouragement this month: Take time to celebrate the wins around you. Sometimes witnessing greatness helps you reconnect with your own.

Beyond the Smile: A Conversation on Authenticity with Simone Bailey

In June, I had the honor of hosting my dear friend Simone Bailey for the release of her book See Beneath My Smile. It was more than just a book launch — it was a moment of truth, vulnerability, and connection.

As we talked about her journey, I was reminded that so many of us wear smiles that hide stories the world will never know. As leaders, we often feel pressure to be “on” all the time — polished, prepared, and perfect. But the truth is, authenticity is our superpower.

There’s freedom in being honest about your journey — the wins, the lessons, and the healing in between. That kind of openness not only strengthens you but gives others permission to show up as themselves too.

✨ Your encouragement this month: Don’t hide behind your smile. Let your story speak. Your transparency might just be the key to someone else’s breakthrough.

Sisterhood & Soft Life: The Power of the Girls’ Trip

This May, I took a much-needed girls’ trip to Savannah, Georgia with some of my closest friends — women who live all over the world but share one common goal: to fill each other’s cup.

Between the laughter, the late-night talks, and the quiet moments by the water, I was reminded that sisterhood is sacred. In leadership and media, we spend so much time pouring into others that we often forget to refill ourselves. But these kinds of moments — the ones that restore your joy and remind you who you are beyond your titles — are essential.

Savannah gave me peace. It reminded me that “soft life” isn’t about luxury; it’s about rest. It’s about community. It’s about surrounding yourself with women who remind you to breathe.

✨ Your encouragement this month: Take time to pause. Call your girls. Plan that trip. Your spirit deserves space to exhale.

Stepping Into the Spotlight: What a Game Show Taught Me About Courage

If you’ve ever stepped into something completely outside your comfort zone, then you know that fluttery mix of fear and excitement. This April, I got to check off a bucket list dream — appearing on the game show 1% Club!

Now listen, I was nervous. The lights, the cameras, the moment — it all felt bigger than me. But as I stood there, I realized courage doesn’t mean you’re not scared; it means you show up anyway. And that’s exactly what I did.

That experience taught me something about leadership: we all need moments that stretch us. When we say yes to new opportunities, we grow our confidence muscle. We remind ourselves that we are still evolving, still becoming.

So whether it’s applying for that new role, pitching a media idea, or taking your voice to a bigger stage — do it scared. The version of you that’s waiting on the other side deserves to shine.

✨ Your reminder this month: You don’t have to be fearless to be powerful. You just have to be willing.

The Power of Purpose: Lessons from the National Black College Expo

This March, I had the honor of speaking at the National Black College Expo — a moment that reminded me just how powerful it is to walk in your purpose. Standing before so many bright, ambitious young minds, I saw reflections of myself: curious, hopeful, and ready to dream bigger than circumstance.

As women in leadership and media, our purpose often evolves, but one thing remains constant — our responsibility to pour back into those coming behind us. Speaking to those students reminded me that representation isn’t just about being seen; it’s about being accessible. It’s about showing young women that their stories matter, their voice matters, and their future is limitless.

In rooms like that, purpose feels contagious. You can’t help but feel re-energized to lead louder, love deeper, and serve greater.

So this month, I challenge you to ask yourself — how are you using your platform to light the path for someone else? Remember, you don’t have to have it all figured out. Sometimes purpose begins with a simple “yes” to the moment in front of you.

✨ Your assignment this month: Mentor one young woman. Share your story. Let her see what’s possible.