Pondering Thoughts Podcast

In this episode, host Kay takes a moment to reflect on the journey of Pondering Thoughts Podcast celebrating two incredible years and five seasons of meaningful, curiosity-driven conversations. From inspiring guests to thought-provoking topics, the show has grown in ways that feel both exciting and deeply personal.

As PonderingThoughts prepares for a short break before launching Season 6, Kay shares what’s ahead: a renewed commitment to intentional storytelling, personal growth, and creating conversations that truly live up to the heart of the show.

While you wait for what’s next, now is the perfect time to r...

In this conversation, Dominic Lawson shares his journey from Christianity to Judaism, exploring the complexities of faith, cultural identity, and personal growth. He reflects on his upbringing in the Bible Belt, the questions he had as a child, and the impact of a major life event on his spiritual exploration. Through a series of meetings with religious leaders, he found a sense of belonging in Judaism, emphasizing the importance of making the world a better place. Now, as part of an interfaith family, he encourages open dialogue and exploration of faith for his daughter. In this conversation, Dominic Lawson...

In this episode, host K. Wilkes and legal expert Samantha Bradshaw break down the legal essentials every content creator should understand. They tackle common misconceptions—like thinking an LLC provides trademark protection—and clarify the core pillars of intellectual property: trademarks, copyrights, and patents. Samantha explains how copyright protection is automatic, why registration matters, and how tools like batch filings, contracts, and media releases help creators protect their content and likeness online.

They also explore the challenges of AI-generated content, the importance of knowing the difference between state and federal laws, and practical ways creators can proactively safe...

 In this lively conversation, host K. Wilkes speaks with Dr. Kris Marsh as she dives into the challenges and rewards of teaching in today’s politically charged higher education landscape. She reflects on the importance of critical thinking and authentic student engagement, drawing from her popular Boondocks class and highlighting the power of contemporary culture—like Kendrick Lamar’s music—to connect with students. Dr. Marsh also explores Black joy as a revolutionary act, shares her strategies for self-care, and discusses the evolving nature of teaching, encouraging educators to adapt their methods to truly meet students where they are. By the en...

In this episode, host K. Wilkes is joined by Dr. Alan Kelton, a board-certified physician specializing in Internal Medicine to discuss andropause — often referred to as male menopause.

Dr. Kelton explains what andropause is, how it differs from female menopause, and why testosterone decline and hypogonadism can have such a profound impact on men’s health. The conversation explores common symptoms such as fatigue, loss of libido, mood changes, and decreased energy, while emphasizing the importance of lifestyle changes, sleep, and nutrition in maintaining hormone balance.

This episode also addresses widespread misconceptions about andropause and high...

In this episode K. Wilkes sits down with Brée Nachelle, a passionate cosplayer, to explore the transformative world of cosplay. Brée shares her journey, which began as a way to connect with her children during a challenging time, and how cosplay became a source of healing, creativity, and joy.

They discuss the vibrant cosplay community, the importance of representation—highlighting spaces like BlerdCon for Black cosplayers—and the collaborative creative process that brings costumes to life. Brée also opens up about public speaking at conventions, misconceptions about cosplayers, and the role of intent and mindful...

In this episode of Pondering Thoughts, host K. Wilkes welcomes Corey Gumbs, founder of the Black Podcasters Association (BPA), to discuss his journey into podcasting, the challenges and triumphs of founding BPA, and the importance of community and advocacy in the podcasting space. Corey shares his personal story, insights on monetization, and the vision for BPA's future, highlighting how his musical family background influenced his path.

Highlights

Join this engaging conversation with author Monica Garner as we spotlight her latest novel, Summer on Cape May. This captivating beach read follows three lifelong friends Lu, Kenya, and Natalia who reunite in the charming seaside town of Cape May, New Jersey, to plan a lavish wedding. As the summer unfolds, past secrets, new loves, and difficult choices challenge their bond in unexpected ways.

In this episode, Monica shares insights into her creative journey, discussing how she navigates the writing process, embraces new literary challenges, and explores diverse genres. Discover the inspiration behind Summer on Cape May...

 As Season 4 comes to a close, K. Wilkes reflects on the evolution of the podcast — from standout guest insights to moments of personal growth behind the mic. In this episode, she shares what she’s learned, how curiosity and community have guided the journey, and what listeners can expect in Season 5. Plus, a look at how she plans to pause and recalibrate over the summer break. A thoughtful recap for curious minds who’ve been part of the story — and those just tuning in.  

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In this powerful episode host K. Wilkes sits down with Dominic Lawson, the creator of the groundbreaking new podcast Mental Health Rewritten, to dive deep into the evolving landscape of mental health conversations. Together, they explore how storytelling, cultural identity, and personal experience can transform the way we talk about mental health.

Dominic Lawson shares the inspiration behind Mental Health Rewritten and how its unique narrative format sets it apart from traditional mental health podcasts. From sex addiction and suicide awareness to sexual anorexia and generational trauma, this episode goes beyond surface-level discussions, tackling topics often left...

In this episode, K. Wilkes is in conversation with Talib Jasir, Founder of Afros & Audio.  Talib shares his journey from a close-knit community upbringing on the Eastern Shore of Maryland to becoming the founder of Afros & Audio, a festival dedicated to Black podcast creators. He discusses how his childhood experiences shaped his creativity and storytelling abilities, the importance of community in his endeavors, and the intentionality behind creating a festival that fosters collaboration and support among creatives. Talib emphasizes the significance of representation in audio storytelling and the need for a supportive ecosystem for independent creators in the podcasting i...

In this episode host K. Wilkes interviews Anthony Weaver from About That Wallet, discussing his personal journey towards financial literacy and the importance of understanding money management. They explore childhood influences, pivotal moments that shaped Anthony's mindset about money, practical steps for achieving financial literacy, and the significance of community planning in financial decisions. Anthony also shares insights on starting his podcast to help others navigate their financial journeys. In this engaging conversation, Anthony from 'About That Wallet' shares his insights on financial literacy, the journey of motherhood, and the importance of mindset in achieving financial success. The discussion...

In this special Earth Day episode host K. Wilkes is in conversation with Imani Black an oyster farmer and Founder of Minorities in Aquaculture (MIA), who shares her inspiring journey into aquaculture, detailing her early influences, education, and the founding of her nonprofit, Minorities in Aquaculture (MIA). She discusses the significance of the Chesapeake Bay, the mission of MIA to promote diversity in the aquaculture industry, and the importance of sustainable seafood practices. Imani also highlights the unique aspects of oyster farming and the need for more representation in the field. In this conversation, Imani Black discusses her journey...

In the second installment of our "Childfree By Choice" series, host K. Wilkes engages in an enlightening discussion with Dr. Jennifer Neal, a prominent researcher, at Michigan State University, specializing in child-free adults. This episode takes a deep dive into the motivations and demographics of individuals who choose not to have children, examining the stereotypes they face and the societal perceptions surrounding their lifestyle. Dr. Neal shares valuable insights from her research, highlighting the increasing visibility of child-free individuals and the implications for policy and societal norms. Together, they discuss the benefits of this choice and the importance of...

In this captivating first part of our two-part series,  host K. Wilkes is in conversation with Mia Voss, who describes herself as "intentionally childless".  In this engaging conversation,  Mia shares her journey of choosing a child-free lifestyle, discussing societal pressures, personal choices, and the language surrounding childlessness. The dialogue explores the importance of community, the role of aunts and uncles, and the nurturing aspects of pet ownership. Additionally, the conversation touches on the experiences of men who are child-free and the societal expectations placed on women regarding motherhood. In this engaging conversation, K. and Mia explore the complexities and soc...

In this episode K. Wilkes is in conversation with Lori L. Tharps, an award-winning author, journalist, educator, and literary influencer.  She discusses the influence of her upbringing, her experiences in academia, and her commitment to elevating BIPOC voices through storytelling. Lori also delves into her podcast, 'Reed, Write, & Create,' where she explores the power of literature and the importance of representation in the literary world, all while navigating her new life in Spain. In this engaging conversation, Lori Tharps discusses the importance of storytelling, the legacy of bestselling authors, and the motivation needed for writers, especially those from m...

In this episode host K. Wilkes is in conversattion with Dr. Allison Applebaum, author of 'Stand By Me: A Guide to Navigating Modern, Meaningful Caregiving', as she shares her personal journey as a caregiver for her father, renowned musician Stan Applebaum, known for many iconic songs including "Stand By Me" and "This Magic Moment".   The conversation explores the emotional complexities of caregiving, the impact of grief, the importance of building a support network, financial considerations, and the challenges of navigating complicated family dynamics. Allison emphasizes the significance of self-care, mindfulness, and advocating for quality of life while addressing ageism i...

In this episode, K. Wilkes is in conversation with Talaya Dendy who shares her inspiring journey from being diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma to becoming a cancer doula. She discusses the emotional and physical challenges she faced during her diagnosis and treatment, the importance of self-advocacy in the healthcare system, and the support she sought to navigate her cancer journey. Talaya emphasizes the significance of acknowledging one's emotions, the need for holistic care, and the ongoing journey of being a cancer thriver. She also reflects on how her experiences have shaped her perspective on life and health. In this conversation...

In this episode, host K. Wilkes is in conversation with Attorney D. Mike Lyles as he shares his unique journey from a career in comedy to law.  He reflects on his childhood inspirations, particularly Richard Pryor, and how his comedic background has influenced his approach to law. Lyles discusses the parallels between comedy and law, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and audience engagement in both fields. He also touches on the challenges and highlights of his comedy career, as well as the transition to law and the skills that have carried over into his legal practice. In this engaging c...

We're thrilled to announce that the premiere episode of Season 4 launches February 13th!  Get ready for a vibrant lineup of guests and fascinating topics, including child-free living, caregiving, finances, inspiring authors and so much more.  Join us for thought-provoking conversations that will spark your curiosity and enrich your understanding of the world. Mark your calendars and join in the discussion! 

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In this episode, host K. "Kay" Wilkes celebrates the conclusion of Season 3 and reflects on a remarkable year that included airing two seasons and commemorating a one-year anniversary in September. As Kay gears up for Season 4, set to launch in early 2025, she wants to hear from YOU!  If you have a guest or topic you would like to see covered on the show, you can send your ideas to Kay via Instagram at @ponderingthoughtspodcast or via email at info@ponderingthoughtspodcast.com. Kay is thankful for all the listeners and everyone who has supported her on this journey and is e...

In this episode, host K. Wilkes speaks with Zenith Malawo, host of Assorted Immigrant Stories podcast.  Zenith shares her personal immigrant story, detailing her journey from Zambia to the United States, the challenges she faced in adjusting to a new culture , and her experiences as an international student. She discusses the realities of immigration laws, the importance of community support, and her eventual transition from studying accounting to a career in nursing. Zenith also highlights the significance of sharing immigrant stories through her podcast, Assorted Immigrant Stories, to provide insights and support for others navigating similar paths. In this e...

In this special "behind the scenes" episode of Pondering Thoughts Podcast, host K. Wilkes introduces listeners to Mr. Al Pete, the talented audio editor who brings the show to life. Join them as they explore Mr. Al Pete’s fascinating journey from DJing and hip hop to podcasting and the creation of his media company, MPN Network. 

The conversation delves into the challenges of podcasting, common mistakes to avoid, and the joy of helping others realize their podcasting dreams. Mr. Al Pete shares valuable insights on standing out in the oversaturated podcasting market, emphasizing the importance of hav...

In this thought-provoking episode, K. Wilkes is conversation with Trish Ferrett, Director of Talent and Founder of Amplify HR Innovations.  They delve into the ever-changing world of recruiting, focusing on the transformative role of technology and AI. With an impressive 30 years of experience, Trish highlights the remarkable shifts in recruiting practices, from the emergence of virtual resumes to the profound impact of social media.

Trish and K. Wilkes engage in a rich discussion about the challenges and opportunities that AI brings to the recruitment landscape, underscoring the necessity of human intuition and inclusivity in the hiring process. T...

In this episode K. Wilkes welcomes back Dr. Daniel Swann, a returning guest who previously graced the show to explore the intersection of race and atheism, specifically focusing on black atheism. This time, Dr. Swann dives into a pressing area of research: the effects of social media on mental health.

In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Swann shares his eye-opening findings on how social media has transformed communication and behavior among young people. After observing alarming trends in his friends and students, he embarked on a journey to understand the significant increase in depression, anxiety, and suicide attempts...

In this heartfelt conversation, K. Wilkes hosts Ginny Thomas and Nicole Holland, two remarkable women, who share their experiences in creating a blended family. They discuss their initial impressions of each other, the challenges they faced, and how they navigated the complexities of co-parenting. The conversation highlights the importance of communication, patience, and building relationships, as well as the joy and growth that come from embracing a blended family dynamic. They also touch on the significance of family traditions and the role of technology in maintaining open communication. Ultimately, they emphasize the value of leading with love and understanding...

In this episode K. Wilkes interviews Jill McClennen, a death doula, and host of Seeing Death Clearly podcast, as she shares her profound insights into navigating the delicate journey of end-of-life care. Discover the vital role that death doulas play in providing emotional, spiritual, and mental support to individuals and their families during one of life’s most challenging moments. Jill recounts her personal journey into this meaningful vocation, inspired by her experiences caring for her aging grandmother and the complexities of end-of-life decisions.

Join us as Jill discusses the certification process, the diverse specialties within the fi...

 In this episode, K. Wilkes interviews Ayreon "DJ Starr" Jackson, who is on an inspiring journey to build a tiny home for financial freedom and to create a stable environment for her autistic son. Ayreon shares her DIY construction efforts, supported by family and friends, and describes her innovative layout designed for her son's needs. She discusses her sustainable lifestyle choices, from composting toilets, using solar power energy sources, to growing her own food, while emphasizing the importance of taking action towards your dreams. Ayreon's passion and resilience shine through as she shares her future vision along with advice f...

In this second installment of our monthly summer series we're revisiting one of our Season 1 favorites: "Is Meditation a Game Changer?" Whether you're a loyal listener needing a refresher or a curious newcomer, this episode is made for you! Join host K. Wilkes as she explores the history of meditation, debunks common myths, and reveals the numerous benefits it offers. Plus, discover easy ways to integrate meditation into your daily life. As summer wraps up and fall approaches, let this episode inspire you to carry the practice of meditation throughout the year! 

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