<![CDATA[Ready to Exhale]]>Welcome to Ready to Exhale, a podcast centering the well-being of Black women. In each episode, we lift up Black women’s voices—learning from their stories, wisdom, and lived expertise.


Together, we explore what it means to hold space for the fullness of who we are: our joy, our healing, our reflection, and our breath.


This podcast offers a brave space where you’ll be inspired to care for yourself, express your joy, and find moments to exhale—because we are no longer waiting to exhale.

]]>https://readytoexhale.buzzsprout.comRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Thu, 28 May 2026 12:52:16 GMTTue, 10 Mar 2026 16:29:57 GMT60Katara McCarty<p><b>Welcome to </b><b><em>Ready to Exhale</em></b><b>, a podcast centering the well-being of Black women.</b> In each episode, we lift up Black women’s voices—learning from their stories, wisdom, and lived expertise.</p><p><br /></p><p>Together, we explore what it means to hold space for the fullness of who we are: our joy, our healing, our reflection, and our breath.</p><p><br /></p><p>This podcast offers a brave space where you’ll be inspired to care for yourself, express your joy, and find moments to exhale—because we are no longer waiting to exhale.</p>episodicKatara McCartykataracoaching@gmail.comno<![CDATA[Black Spiritual Care with Faith Hunter]]>In this episode of Ready to Exhale, Katara sits down with Faith Hunter for a grounding conversation on healing, spiritual well-being, and the power of returning to ourselves. A globally celebrated wellness guide and creator of the Spiritually Fly™ philosophy, Faith shares how yoga, meditation, and breath became part of her own healing journey and life’s purpose.

Together, they explore emotional release, presence, and what it means to care for ourselves in a world that often asks us to keep pushing. This conversation is an invitation to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and make space to exhale.

Check out Faith and her offerings here https://www.faithhunter.com/

]]>8e74163f-55ba-482f-a088-bbe4292496f7Thu, 21 May 2026 19:28:34 GMT<p>In this episode of <i>Ready to Exhale</i>, Katara sits down with Faith Hunter for a grounding conversation on healing, spiritual well-being, and the power of returning to ourselves. A globally celebrated wellness guide and creator of the Spiritually Fly™ philosophy, Faith shares how yoga, meditation, and breath became part of her own healing journey and life’s purpose.</p><p></p><p>Together, they explore emotional release, presence, and what it means to care for ourselves in a world that often asks us to keep pushing. This conversation is an invitation to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and make space to exhale.</p><p></p><p>Check out Faith and her offerings here <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.faithhunter.com/" target="_blank">https://www.faithhunter.com/</a></p>no00:54:4533Black Spiritual Care with Faith Hunterfull<![CDATA[Black Maternal Safety with Latham Thomas]]>In this episode of Ready to Exhale, Katara is joined by Latham Thomas—author, educator, and founder of Mama Glow—whose work is reshaping how we understand birth, postpartum care, and the well-being of mothers and babies.

Together, they explore what it means to build systems where Black women are not only heard, but truly safe. Because too often, safety isn’t given—it’s something Black women are forced to fight for.

As Latham shares, “It’s actually demanding our strength to advocate… because systems refuse to create circumstances where you’re safe. That is a violation of human rights.”

This conversation is both grounding and urgent—a reminder of what care should feel like, and what Black women have always deserved.

To learn more about Latham and her work, visit:
https://mamaglow.com/
https://mamaglowfoundation.org/

]]>976f4712-390a-4e23-8ec3-2a09a005484eThu, 09 Apr 2026 20:00:46 GMT<p>In this episode of <i>Ready to Exhale</i>, Katara is joined by Latham Thomas—author, educator, and founder of Mama Glow—whose work is reshaping how we understand birth, postpartum care, and the well-being of mothers and babies.</p><p></p><p>Together, they explore what it means to build systems where Black women are not only heard, but truly safe. Because too often, safety isn’t given—it’s something Black women are forced to fight for.</p><p></p><p>As Latham shares, “It’s actually demanding our strength to advocate… because systems refuse to create circumstances where you’re safe. That is a violation of human rights.”</p><p></p><p>This conversation is both grounding and urgent—a reminder of what care should feel like, and what Black women have always deserved.</p><p></p><p>To learn more about Latham and her work, visit:<br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://mamaglow.com/" target="_blank">https://mamaglow.com/</a><br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://mamaglowfoundation.org/" target="_blank">https://mamaglowfoundation.org/</a></p>no01:03:0632Black Maternal Safety with Latham Thomasfull<![CDATA[Black Mental WEALTH with Dr. Raquel Martin]]>In this episode of Ready to Exhale, Katara McCarty sits down with Dr. Raquel Martin, psychologist, educator, and thought leader in Black mental health and liberation psychology. Together they explore what it means to cultivate “Black mental wealth,” how our mental health is shaped by the world around us, and why community care is essential to our well-being.

This conversation invites us to think deeper about healing, community, and the ways we can support our mental and emotional well-being as Black women.

Check out Dr Martin and her offerings here https://www.raquelmartinphd.com/

]]>8b024dd3-f21f-4f5d-9eb0-f77b979a14c5Wed, 11 Mar 2026 14:38:43 GMT<p>In this episode of <i>Ready to Exhale</i>, Katara McCarty sits down with Dr. Raquel Martin, psychologist, educator, and thought leader in Black mental health and liberation psychology. Together they explore what it means to cultivate “Black mental wealth,” how our mental health is shaped by the world around us, and why community care is essential to our well-being.</p><p>This conversation invites us to think deeper about healing, community, and the ways we can support our mental and emotional well-being as Black women.</p><p>Check out Dr Martin and her offerings here <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.raquelmartinphd.com/" target="_blank">https://www.raquelmartinphd.com/</a></p>no00:50:1131Black Mental WEALTH with Dr. Raquel Martinfull<![CDATA[Waking Up To The Power Of Rest with Octavia Raheem]]>In this episode, I sat down with the lovely Octavia Raheem to discuss all things rest and her new book, Rest is Sacred, which is out now! As you will hear, Octavia is committed to herself, her family, community and being well rested in body, mind, heart, and spirit. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did. 

Order Rest is Sacred Here https://www.octaviaraheem.com/rest-is-sacred

Octavia's website https://www.octaviaraheem.com/

Octavia on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/octaviaraheem/

]]>Buzzsprout-16026313Thu, 31 Oct 2024 16:00:00 GMT<p>In this episode, I sat down with the lovely Octavia Raheem to discuss all things rest and her new book, Rest is Sacred, which is out now! As you will hear, Octavia is committed to herself, her family, community and being well rested in body, mind, heart, and spirit. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did. <br /><br />Order Rest is Sacred Here https://www.octaviaraheem.com/rest-is-sacred<br /><br />Octavia's website https://www.octaviaraheem.com/<br /><br />Octavia on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/octaviaraheem/</p>no00:59:0619Waking Up To The Power Of Rest with Octavia Raheemfull<![CDATA[We Root Ourselves Here]]>In this solo episode, Katara invites us to pause, breathe, and reflect on the urgent importance of prioritizing our mental health and well-being as Black women. Especially now.

She begins with grounding breathwork practice, weaves in data from The State of Self-Care for Black Women and The Highland Project’s Poll and speaks truth about the systems that harm us while pointing toward collective care as resistance.

The episode closes with her reading her original poem, We Root Ourselves Here, a love letter to our care, joy, and community.

]]>Buzzsprout-17964332Mon, 06 Oct 2025 15:00:00 GMT<p>In this solo episode, Katara invites us to pause, breathe, and reflect on the urgent importance of prioritizing our mental health and well-being as Black women. Especially now.</p><p>She begins with grounding breathwork practice, weaves in data from <em>The State of Self-Care for Black Women </em>and The Highland Project’s Poll and speaks truth about the systems that harm us while pointing toward collective care as resistance.</p><p>The episode closes with her reading her original poem, <em>We Root Ourselves Here</em>, a love letter to our care, joy, and community.</p>no00:27:1526We Root Ourselves Herefull<![CDATA[A Two-Part Conversation with Dr. Gail Parker: Part 2]]>We’re honored to welcome back Dr. Gail Parker to the Ready to Exhale podcast for a powerful two-part conversation. Together, we explore what it means to care for our mental health before reaching the breaking point and how daily practices can help us stay grounded and whole, especially in a year where over 300,000 Black women are unemployed and 45% of Black Women voters say their mental health has worsened this year. (according to The Highland Project Poll). 

In these episodes, Katara and Dr. Parker reflect on a recent event they co-hosted and a deeply moving moment standing at the river, a place Dr. Parker described as both boundary and horizon. Their conversation invites us to consider how that same duality lives within us today: the limits we honor and the possibilities we continue to reach for.

Tune in to both parts of this soul-nourishing dialogue on Ready to Exhale, available now.

]]>Buzzsprout-18193465Sat, 15 Nov 2025 01:00:00 GMT<p>We’re honored to welcome back Dr. Gail Parker to the <em>Ready to Exhale</em> podcast for a powerful two-part conversation. Together, we explore what it means to care for our mental health before reaching the breaking point and how daily practices can help us stay grounded and whole, especially in a year where over 300,000 Black women are unemployed and 45% of Black Women voters say their mental health has worsened this year. (according to The Highland Project Poll). </p><p>In these episodes, Katara and Dr. Parker reflect on a recent event they co-hosted and a deeply moving moment standing at the river, a place Dr. Parker described as both <em>boundary and horizon</em>. Their conversation invites us to consider how that same duality lives within us today: the limits we honor and the possibilities we continue to reach for.</p><p>Tune in to both parts of this soul-nourishing dialogue on <em>Ready to Exhale</em>, available now.</p>no00:33:2128A Two-Part Conversation with Dr. Gail Parker: Part 2full<![CDATA[No One is Self-Made with Dr. Lakeysha "Key" Hallmon]]>This month on Ready to Exhale, we’re joined by Dr. Lakeysha “Key” Hallmon - educator, entrepreneur, and author of No One Is Self-Made: Build Your Village to Flourish in Business and Life.

In this powerful conversation, Dr. Hallmon unpacks the myth of individualism and invites us to reimagine success through the lens of collaboration and community. Together, we explore what it means to build a village that nourishes your growth, supports your vision, and sustains your well-being.

Tune in and be reminded: you don’t have to do it all alone.

Purchase No One is Self Made here: https://drkeyhallmon.com/noism/

Follow Dr. Key on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/drkeyhallmon/

]]>Buzzsprout-17423898Mon, 30 Jun 2025 15:00:00 GMT<p>This month on <em>Ready to Exhale</em>, we’re joined by Dr. Lakeysha “Key” Hallmon - educator, entrepreneur, and author of <em>No One Is Self-Made: Build Your Village to Flourish in Business and Life</em>.</p><p>In this powerful conversation, Dr. Hallmon unpacks the myth of individualism and invites us to reimagine success through the lens of collaboration and community. Together, we explore what it means to build a village that nourishes your growth, supports your vision, and sustains your well-being.</p><p>Tune in and be reminded: you don’t have to do it all alone.</p><p>Purchase No One is Self Made here: https://drkeyhallmon.com/noism/</p><p>Follow Dr. Key on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/drkeyhallmon/</p>yes00:45:4623No One is Self-Made with Dr. Lakeysha "Key" Hallmonfull<![CDATA[Walking Toward Liberation with Vanessa Garrison]]>Katara sits down with visionary leader Vanessa Garrison, co-founder of GirlTrek, the largest health nonprofit for Black women and girls in the U.S., with over one million walkers. Vanessa is reimagining public health as a path to liberation—grounding her work in the radical, beautiful act of walking.

From reclaiming green spaces to sparking a civil rights–inspired health movement, Vanessa shares how walking can be both healing and revolutionary.

We hope you enjoy this beautiful conversation between two sisters committed to the well-being of Black women.

]]>Buzzsprout-17577457Mon, 28 Jul 2025 20:00:00 GMT<p>Katara sits down with visionary leader <b>Vanessa Garrison</b>, co-founder of <b>GirlTrek</b>, the largest health nonprofit for Black women and girls in the U.S., with over one million walkers. Vanessa is reimagining public health as a path to liberation—grounding her work in the radical, beautiful act of walking.</p><p>From reclaiming green spaces to sparking a civil rights–inspired health movement, Vanessa shares how walking can be both healing and revolutionary.</p><p>We hope you enjoy this beautiful conversation between two sisters committed to the well-being of Black women.</p>no00:45:1724Walking Toward Liberation with Vanessa Garrisonfull<![CDATA[We Need To Be Well To Fight with Tonya Lewis Lee]]>In this episode, Katara engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Tonya Lewis Lee, the visionary behind Movita Organics. They delve into the concept that, as Black Women, we are in a constant battle and must prioritize our wellness to effectively fight it.

Tonya created Movita to help women gain a baseline of good nutrition and practice positive choices that support a lifestyle of well-being. For Tonya, Movita is a platform to continue the conversation about finding balance and offer a tool to help women through this process.

Check out Movita Organics https://www.movitaorganics.com/

Tonya is a passionate advocate for women's health and wellness. Tonya turned to creativity by writing her classic children's books, Please Baby Please and Please Puppy Please. She would go on to produce television and film, always with an eye toward women, families, and social justice. Tonya also found her voice as an advocate, becoming the spokesperson for the US Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health, A Healthy Baby Begins with You (AHBBWY) campaign. Inspired by her work with AHBBWY, Tonya created and published Healthy You Now's wellness blog to educate, empower, and support women in their unique health journeys. She also co-directed and co-produced the film Aftershock, which can be streamed on Hulu. Movita Organics is the nexus of Tonya's work as a creator, communicator, and women's health advocate.




]]>Buzzsprout-15041539Thu, 09 May 2024 20:00:00 GMT<p>In this episode, Katara engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Tonya Lewis Lee, the visionary behind Movita Organics. They delve into the concept that, as Black Women, we are in a constant battle and must prioritize our wellness to effectively fight it.</p><p>Tonya created Movita to help women gain a baseline of good nutrition and practice positive choices that support a lifestyle of well-being. For Tonya, Movita is a platform to continue the conversation about finding balance and offer a tool to help women through this process.</p><p>Check out Movita Organics https://www.movitaorganics.com/</p><p>Tonya is a passionate advocate for women's health and wellness. Tonya turned to creativity by writing her classic children's books, Please Baby Please and Please Puppy Please. She would go on to produce television and film, always with an eye toward women, families, and social justice. Tonya also found her voice as an advocate, becoming the spokesperson for the US Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health, A Healthy Baby Begins with You (AHBBWY) campaign. Inspired by her work with AHBBWY, Tonya created and published Healthy You Now's wellness blog to educate, empower, and support women in their unique health journeys. She also co-directed and co-produced the film Aftershock, which can be streamed on Hulu. Movita Organics is the nexus of Tonya's work as a creator, communicator, and women's health advocate.</p><p><br /><br /><br /></p>no00:34:0016We Need To Be Well To Fight with Tonya Lewis Leefull<![CDATA[Freedom is not a destination, but a practice]]>Our host, Katara, sits down with the brilliant Tamara Winfrey-Harris, award-winning author of Dear Black Girl and The Sisters Are Alright.

In this conversation, Tamara reminds us that freedom isn’t a finish line we cross, it’s a daily practice of telling the truth, creating community, and making space for Black women and girls to breathe fully. Together, Katara and Tamara explore what it means to live free in our bodies, our choices, and our joy.

Tune in now and let Tamara’s wisdom remind you that freedom lives within us, here and now.

]]>Buzzsprout-17799769Sat, 06 Sep 2025 18:00:00 GMT<p>Our host, Katara, sits down with the brilliant Tamara Winfrey-Harris, award-winning author of <em>Dear Black Girl</em> and <em>The Sisters Are Alright.</em></p><p>In this conversation, Tamara reminds us that freedom isn’t a finish line we cross, it’s a daily practice of telling the truth, creating community, and making space for Black women and girls to breathe fully. Together, Katara and Tamara explore what it means to live free in our bodies, our choices, and our joy.</p><p>Tune in now and let Tamara’s wisdom remind you that freedom lives within us, here and now.</p>no00:46:4625Freedom is not a destination, but a practicefull<![CDATA[Drinking From Wells That Nourish Us with Dr. Topeka Sam]]>We sat down with Dr. Topeka to hear her beautiful story, from incarceration to launching and leading an amazing organization. Dr. Topeka K. Sam founded The Ladies of Hope Ministries (The LOHM) in 2017 to support women and girls impacted by the criminal legal system. While incarcerated, she realized that prison and jail are not conducive to healing and rehabilitation. Upon her release, Topeka made it her mission to create pathways to success for women and girls and advocate for alternatives to incarceration.

Instagram @topekaksam

]]>Buzzsprout-14747219Fri, 22 Mar 2024 20:00:00 GMT<p>We sat down with <a href="https://thelohm.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Dr. Topeka</a> to hear her beautiful story, from incarceration to launching and leading an amazing organization. Dr. Topeka K. Sam founded The Ladies of Hope Ministries (The LOHM) in 2017 to support women and girls impacted by the criminal legal system. While incarcerated, she realized that prison and jail are not conducive to healing and rehabilitation. Upon her release, Topeka made it her mission to create pathways to success for women and girls and advocate for alternatives to incarceration.<br /><br />Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/topekaksam/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">@topekaksam</a></p>no00:53:5114Drinking From Wells That Nourish Us with Dr. Topeka Samfull<![CDATA[Micro Self-Care with Dr. Stella Safo]]>In this episode, our host, Katara, sat down with Dr. Stella Safo to discuss her work as a board-certified HIV primary care physician, public health advocate, and Just Equity for Health founder. This healthcare improvement company uses advocacy, education, and care model design to ensure equitable care delivery across all sectors of medicine.

Dr. Safo has experience in clinical transformation and healthcare redesign in academic and corporate healthcare settings. In addition to investing in projects around equitable care model design and a commitment to social justice work, she also provides clinical care to patients in New York. Her work has been featured in various academic and popular media, including CNN and MSNBC.

Just Equity for Health


]]>Buzzsprout-14864902Wed, 10 Apr 2024 15:00:00 GMT<p>In this episode, our host, Katara, sat down with Dr. Stella Safo to discuss her work as a board-certified HIV primary care physician, public health advocate, and Just Equity for Health founder. This healthcare improvement company uses advocacy, education, and care model design to ensure equitable care delivery across all sectors of medicine.<br /><br />Dr. Safo has experience in clinical transformation and healthcare redesign in academic and corporate healthcare settings. In addition to investing in projects around equitable care model design and a commitment to social justice work, she also provides clinical care to patients in New York. Her work has been featured in various academic and popular media, including CNN and MSNBC. <br /><br /><a href="https://justequityforhealth.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Just Equity for Health</a></p><p><br /></p>no00:50:1315Micro Self-Care with Dr. Stella Safofull<![CDATA[About the Podcast]]>Our host Katara shares more about Ready to Exhale and what to expect from this podcast.

]]>Buzzsprout-12698115Fri, 21 Apr 2023 20:00:00 GMT<p>Our host Katara shares more about Ready to Exhale and what to expect from this podcast.</p>no00:02:58About the Podcastfull<![CDATA[A Gentle Pause Before the Next Season with Katara]]>In our final episode of Ready to Exhale for the year, Katara sits with you for a short solo reflection to gently close this season of conversation and care. This episode is a moment of gratitude for every listener and for each of the incredible women who joined her throughout the year.

In this closing reflection, Katara shares what this year has held, what we are carrying forward, and offers an invitation to move into the next season with intention, softness, and breath.


]]>Buzzsprout-18381736Fri, 19 Dec 2025 12:00:00 GMT<p>In our final episode of <em>Ready to Exhale</em> for the year, Katara sits with you for a short solo reflection to gently close this season of conversation and care. This episode is a moment of gratitude for every listener and for each of the incredible women who joined her throughout the year.</p><p>In this closing reflection, Katara shares what this year has held, what we are carrying forward, and offers an invitation to move into the next season with intention, softness, and breath.</p><p><br /></p>no00:20:1529A Gentle Pause Before the Next Season with Katarafull<![CDATA[The Relationship Between You and You with Kyra Epps]]>In this episode, Katara sits down with Kyra Epps for a heartfelt conversation on identity, legacy, and the power of staying grounded. Kyra—creative, producer, founder, and a woman deeply rooted in care—opens up about her journey navigating her career, motherhood, and legacy building, all while prioritizing her own healing and growth.

This episode is full of reflection and real talk about what it means to build a life with intention, and to develop a relationship between you and yourself.

Join us for an honest, soulful exchange between friends making space for truth, care, and joy.

Enjoy!

]]>Buzzsprout-17023028Tue, 22 Apr 2025 19:00:00 GMT<p>In this episode, Katara sits down with Kyra Epps for a heartfelt conversation on identity, legacy, and the power of staying grounded. Kyra—creative, producer, founder, and a woman deeply rooted in care—opens up about her journey navigating her career, motherhood, and legacy building, all while prioritizing her own healing and growth.</p><p>This episode is full of reflection and real talk about what it means to build a life with intention, and to develop a relationship between you and yourself.</p><p>Join us for an honest, soulful exchange between friends making space for truth, care, and joy.</p><p>Enjoy!</p>no00:47:4022The Relationship Between You and You with Kyra Eppsfull<![CDATA[Reimagining What's Possible with Dr. Marlo D. David]]>In this episode, Katara sits down with her friend Dr. Marlo D. David for a beautiful conversation to chat about how Black Women deserve space and time to think, to dream, and to reimagine our careers and lives. 

Dr. Marlo D. David is an associate professor of English and Women’s, Gender, and
Sexuality Studies at Purdue University. She is the author of Mama’s Gun: Black
Maternal Figures and the Politics of Transgression, establishing her as a nationally
recognized voice on Black motherhood and reproductive justice. Inspired by her
motherhood journey, her book explains how Black authors, musicians, and filmmakers depict black mothers and how dominant culture has often distorted these representations to fit its political agenda. Through this research, she hopes to make visible the stereotypes that affect Black mothers in the medical system that place them at higher risk for harm and death.

Dr. Marlo’s passion for social justice, writing, and the arts started at a young age. She grew up in Florida as the oldest daughter of an artist and a writer who devoted their time to uplifting their community. After attending Florida A&M University, she worked as a newspaper reporter and editor for nearly a decade before she left journalism for graduate school. She earned her Ph.D. in American Literature in 2009 and has taught and mentored new scholars ever since.

Even with all these career pivots, she explains, "At my core, I’m a storyteller, and I come from a long line of Southern folks who love shaping their worlds with words.” 

Her current book projects include editing a collection of essays exploring the Black literary and cultural explosion of the 1970s, as well as a biography of Bill Gunn, a visionary 20th-century queer Black author, actor, playwright, and filmmaker. 

Her essays on culture and politics have appeared in scholarly and popular publications, including Atmos, Black Perspectives, The African American Review, Home Girls Make Some Noise: A Hip-Hop Feminism Anthology, and BlackGirlMagic Beyond the Hashtag: Twenty-first Century Acts of Self Definition.

You can follow Dr. Marlo on the following social media platforms
X @afrotelligence
LinkedIN @Marlo D. David, Ph.D.
Instagram @dr_marlo91

]]>Buzzsprout-15843048Mon, 30 Sep 2024 19:00:00 GMT<p>In this episode, Katara sits down with her friend Dr. Marlo D. David for a beautiful conversation to chat about how Black Women deserve space and time to think, to dream, and to reimagine our careers and lives. <br /><br />Dr. Marlo D. David is an associate professor of English and Women’s, Gender, and<br />Sexuality Studies at Purdue University. She is the author of Mama’s Gun: Black<br />Maternal Figures and the Politics of Transgression, establishing her as a nationally<br />recognized voice on Black motherhood and reproductive justice. Inspired by her<br />motherhood journey, her book explains how Black authors, musicians, and filmmakers depict black mothers and how dominant culture has often distorted these representations to fit its political agenda. Through this research, she hopes to make visible the stereotypes that affect Black mothers in the medical system that place them at higher risk for harm and death.<br /><br />Dr. Marlo’s passion for social justice, writing, and the arts started at a young age. She grew up in Florida as the oldest daughter of an artist and a writer who devoted their time to uplifting their community. After attending Florida A&amp;M University, she worked as a newspaper reporter and editor for nearly a decade before she left journalism for graduate school. She earned her Ph.D. in American Literature in 2009 and has taught and mentored new scholars ever since.<br /><br />Even with all these career pivots, she explains, "At my core, I’m a storyteller, and I come from a long line of Southern folks who love shaping their worlds with words.” <br /><br />Her current book projects include editing a collection of essays exploring the Black literary and cultural explosion of the 1970s, as well as a biography of Bill Gunn, a visionary 20th-century queer Black author, actor, playwright, and filmmaker. <br /><br />Her essays on culture and politics have appeared in scholarly and popular publications, including Atmos, Black Perspectives, The African American Review, Home Girls Make Some Noise: A Hip-Hop Feminism Anthology, and BlackGirlMagic Beyond the Hashtag: Twenty-first Century Acts of Self Definition.<br /><br />You can follow Dr. Marlo on the following social media platforms<br />X @afrotelligence<br />LinkedIN @Marlo D. David, Ph.D.<br />Instagram @dr_marlo91</p>no01:04:2618Reimagining What's Possible with Dr. Marlo D. Davidfull<![CDATA[Race-Based Stress & Trauma with Dr. Gail Parker]]>In this episode our host Katara chats with Dr. Gail Parker to discuss race-based stress and trauma and ways we can heal and live thriving lives.

Gail Parker, PhD., CIAYT, is an author, psychologist, yoga therapist educator, and a lifelong practitioner of yoga. She is President Emerita of the Black Yoga Teachers Alliance (BYTA) Board of Directors where she served as President of the Board from 2020-2024. Dr. Gail is well known for her pioneering efforts to blend psychology, yoga, and meditation as effective self-care strategies that can enhance emotional balance, and contribute to overall health and well-being. She is a facilitator in The Highland Project leadership program, and in Shay’s Warriors Life After Cancer retreat. 

 She was a faculty member in the Kripalu School of Integrative Yoga Therapy, teaching therapeutic yoga for stress reduction and trauma recovery from 2020-2024. Dr. Gail has appeared numerous times as a psychologist expert on nationally syndicated talk shows including the Oprah Winfrey Show.

Her bestselling book, Restorative Yoga for Ethnic and Race-Based Stress and Trauma, offers self-care strategies and invites everyone, not just those directly impacted, to explore the intersection of yoga, race and ethnicity, and to consider the psychological impact of race-based stress and trauma on all of us. The companion book, Transforming Ethnic and Race-Based Traumatic Stress With Yoga invites us to reimagine and engage in healing strategies for ethnic and racial stress and trauma that lead to post traumatic growth. 

https://www.drgailparker.com/

 


]]>Buzzsprout-15454894Mon, 22 Jul 2024 19:00:00 GMT<p>In this episode our host Katara chats with Dr. Gail Parker to discuss race-based stress and trauma and ways we can heal and live thriving lives.<br /><br />Gail Parker, PhD., CIAYT, is an author, psychologist, yoga therapist educator, and a lifelong practitioner of yoga. She is President Emerita of the Black Yoga Teachers Alliance (BYTA) Board of Directors where she served as President of the Board from 2020-2024. Dr. Gail is well known for her pioneering efforts to blend psychology, yoga, and meditation as effective self-care strategies that can enhance emotional balance, and contribute to overall health and well-being. She is a facilitator in The Highland Project leadership program, and in Shay’s Warriors Life After Cancer retreat. </p><p> She was a faculty member in the Kripalu School of Integrative Yoga Therapy, teaching therapeutic yoga for stress reduction and trauma recovery from 2020-2024. Dr. Gail has appeared numerous times as a psychologist expert on nationally syndicated talk shows including the <em>Oprah Winfrey Show</em>.<br /> <br /> Her bestselling book, <em>Restorative Yoga for Ethnic and Race-Based Stress and Trauma</em>, offers self-care strategies and invites everyone, not just those directly impacted, to explore the intersection of yoga, race and ethnicity, and to consider the psychological impact of race-based stress and trauma on all of us. The companion book, <em>Transforming Ethnic and Race-Based Traumatic Stress With Yoga</em> invites us to reimagine and engage in healing strategies for ethnic and racial stress and trauma that lead to post traumatic growth. <br /><br />https://www.drgailparker.com/</p><p> </p><p><br /></p>yes00:59:3317Race-Based Stress & Trauma with Dr. Gail Parkerfull<![CDATA[A Two-Part Conversation with Dr. Gail Parker: Part 1]]>We’re honored to welcome back Dr. Gail Parker to the Ready to Exhale podcast for a powerful two-part conversation. Together, we explore what it means to care for our mental health before reaching the breaking point and how daily practices can help us stay grounded and whole, especially in a year where over 300,000 Black women are unemployed and 45% of Black Women voters say their mental health has worsened this year. (according to The Highland Project Poll). 

In these episodes, Katara and Dr. Parker reflect on a recent event they co-hosted and a deeply moving moment standing at the river, a place Dr. Parker described as both boundary and horizon. Their conversation invites us to consider how that same duality lives within us today: the limits we honor and the possibilities we continue to reach for.

Tune in to both parts of this soul-nourishing dialogue on Ready to Exhale, available now.

]]>Buzzsprout-18193453Sat, 15 Nov 2025 01:00:00 GMT<p>We’re honored to welcome back Dr. Gail Parker to the <em>Ready to Exhale</em> podcast for a powerful two-part conversation. Together, we explore what it means to care for our mental health before reaching the breaking point and how daily practices can help us stay grounded and whole, especially in a year where over 300,000 Black<b> </b>women are unemployed and 45% of Black Women voters say their mental health has worsened this year.<b> </b>(according to The Highland Project Poll). </p><p>In these episodes, Katara and Dr. Parker reflect on a recent event they co-hosted and a deeply moving moment standing at the river, a place Dr. Parker described as both <em>boundary and horizon</em>. Their conversation invites us to consider how that same duality lives within us today: the limits we honor and the possibilities we continue to reach for.</p><p>Tune in to both parts of this soul-nourishing dialogue on <em>Ready to Exhale</em>, available now.</p>no00:41:4827A Two-Part Conversation with Dr. Gail Parker: Part 1full<![CDATA[The State of Self-Care for Black Women-New Orleans]]>Episode #2 was recorded live during Essence Fest Weekend, we stopped by Magnolia Yoga Studio to discuss "The State of Self-Care for Black Women" report by Exhale. Listen in as Rhonda Broussard, author of One Good Question, educator, and entrepreneur, along with Shelina Davis, CEO of Louisiana Public Health Institute, and Ajax Jackson, founder & CEO of Magnolia Yoga Studio, the first Black Yoga Studio in New Orleans sit down with our host Katara to have a raw discussion on how to prioritize our well-being as Black Women. 

]]>Buzzsprout-13492401Tue, 29 Aug 2023 20:00:00 GMT<p>Episode #2 was recorded live during Essence Fest Weekend, we stopped by Magnolia Yoga Studio to discuss "The State of Self-Care for Black Women" report by Exhale. Listen in as Rhonda Broussard, author of One Good Question, educator, and entrepreneur, along with Shelina Davis, CEO of Louisiana Public Health Institute, and Ajax Jackson, founder &amp; CEO of Magnolia Yoga Studio, the first Black Yoga Studio in New Orleans sit down with our host Katara to have a raw discussion on how to prioritize our well-being as Black Women. </p>no00:49:0612The State of Self-Care for Black Women-New Orleansfull<![CDATA[The Power of Community & Sisterhood with Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette]]>We are thrilled to kick off a new season of Ready to Exhale with the incredible Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette!

Dr. B is a trailblazer in education, leadership, and community impact. She made history as the first female president of Huston-Tillotson University, Austin’s oldest institution of higher learning. With a background in engineering and technology, she has held executive roles in higher education, corporate America, and nonprofit leadership—including serving as President & CEO of Newfields in Indianapolis. A dedicated servant leader, she has championed racial equity, education, and community empowerment through partnerships with organizations like Apple and the Urban League.

In this episode, we dive into Dr. B’s inspiring career journey, how she navigates change, and the ways these transitions have shaped her mental health and well-being. This conversation is full of wisdom, resilience, and insight—we hope you enjoy it!


]]>Buzzsprout-16870695Thu, 27 Mar 2025 16:00:00 GMT<p>We are thrilled to kick off a new season of <b>Ready to Exhale</b> with the incredible <b>Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette!</b></p><p>Dr. B is a trailblazer in education, leadership, and community impact. She made history as the first female president of Huston-Tillotson University, Austin’s oldest institution of higher learning. With a background in engineering and technology, she has held executive roles in higher education, corporate America, and nonprofit leadership—including serving as President &amp; CEO of Newfields in Indianapolis. A dedicated servant leader, she has championed racial equity, education, and community empowerment through partnerships with organizations like Apple and the Urban League.</p><p>In this episode, we dive into Dr. B’s inspiring career journey, how she navigates change, and the ways these transitions have shaped her mental health and well-being. This conversation is full of wisdom, resilience, and insight—we hope you enjoy it!</p><p><br /></p>no00:57:4221The Power of Community & Sisterhood with Dr. Colette Pierce Burnettefull<![CDATA[Luxurious Exhale with Gabrielle Wyatt]]>What does it mean for Black Women to take deep luxurious exhales? Gabrielle Wyatt, founder and CEO of The Highland Project, sits down with our host Katara McCarty to discuss the importance of pausing, resting, and centering ourselves. Episode available on all streaming platforms. 

]]>Buzzsprout-13810838Thu, 19 Oct 2023 19:00:00 GMT<p>What does it mean for Black Women to take deep luxurious exhales? Gabrielle Wyatt, founder and CEO of The Highland Project, sits down with our host Katara McCarty to discuss the importance of pausing, resting, and centering ourselves. Episode available on all streaming platforms. </p>no00:47:5813Luxurious Exhale with Gabrielle Wyattfull<![CDATA[Creating Spaces for US!]]>Episode #1 is here! In this episode, Bria McCarty, Producer and Director of Ready to Exhale podcast, interviews Katara, Exhale app's founder, and our podcast host. They discuss the importance of creating space for Black Women in the wellness industry and why representation is important. Enjoy the show!

]]>Buzzsprout-13213725Wed, 12 Jul 2023 17:00:00 GMT<p>Episode #1 is here! In this episode, Bria McCarty, Producer and Director of Ready to Exhale podcast, interviews Katara, Exhale app's founder, and our podcast host. They discuss the importance of creating space for Black Women in the wellness industry and why representation is important. Enjoy the show!</p>no00:26:1811Creating Spaces for US!full<![CDATA[Pausing to Feel with Aseanté Renee]]>I sat down with Aseanté Renee, a colleague and healer. 

A few days after the election, she asked me what emotions were loud for me. Her question caused me to pause and be with all of the emotions I was having. I was grateful for her thoughtfulness and care during this tender moment for many of us. 

Aseanté is a beautiful human doing beautiful work. I was honored to have her on this episode of Ready to Exhale. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.

Follow and support Aseanté here
https://axongroupinc.com/
https://retiringsuperwoman.com/
https://www.susuhouse.org/

]]>Buzzsprout-16255953Tue, 10 Dec 2024 20:00:00 GMT<p>I sat down with Aseanté Renee, a colleague and healer. </p><p>A few days after the election, she asked me what emotions were loud for me. Her question caused me to pause and be with all of the emotions I was having. I was grateful for her thoughtfulness and care during this tender moment for many of us. </p><p>Aseanté is a beautiful human doing beautiful work. I was honored to have her on this episode of Ready to Exhale. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.<br /><br />Follow and support Aseanté here<br />https://axongroupinc.com/<br />https://retiringsuperwoman.com/<br />https://www.susuhouse.org/</p>no00:51:20110Pausing to Feel with Aseanté Reneefull