Episodes
Sept. 15, 2023
Freedom Friday: Why Overcommitting DECREASES Your Value!
We're tackling the idea of being 'overcommitted'. You know, the constant hustle that leaves you feeling drained, yet you believe it makes you look successful? Let's debunk that myth, together. We'll explore the difference between being a multitasker and being overcommitted, and we'll share some reflective questions that can help you identify if you're burning the candle at both ends. Tune in for this challenging journey of unlearning and start adding more value to your life, and those around you...
Sept. 8, 2023
Freedom Friday: Your False Humility Is Not Helping Anyone!
Ever grappled with the nuances of humility and how it intertwines with laziness and confidence? Well, it's time to take a deep breath and plunge into the uncharted waters of self-discovery with me, your host Ruth Abigail, also known as RA, on our Freedom Friday session. We're going to tackle the fears that make us play small and how the misinterpretation of humility in religious cultures often leads to self-imposed mediocrity. In this conversation, I share my personal journey towards unmasking ...
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Sept. 1, 2023
There Is No Such Thing As "My Truth" (Throwback Freedom Friday)
What if truth and reality are not the same? This week on the unlearned podcast, we're taking a deep dive into the intriguing difference between truth and reality. We challenge the popular belief that truth is subjective and explore the idea that while our realities are personal and ever-changing, truth remains constant, existing beyond our individual selves. So join us on this thought-provoking journey of understanding and unlearning, as we grow towards freedom together. Plus, stay tuned for an...
Aug. 25, 2023
Freedom Friday: Unlearning Planning and Embracing the Power of Pivot
Are you ready to unlock personal growth and actual freedom? Master the art of the pivot with me, your host Ruth Abigail (RA), as I unpack the lessons I've unlearned about planning and the essential role of spontaneity. As someone who once thrived on meticulous plans, I've come to understand that the real beauty lies in the ability to change direction quickly. So, join me on this Freedom Friday episode as we continue our unlearning journey, enhancing our lives with the power of the pivot. Don't ...
Aug. 22, 2023
Unlearning Marriage: Overcoming a Disapproving In-Law, The Challenge of Age Gaps, Starting A Family With No Place To Live, Being Forced Into Marriage By The Church, And Rebuilding Faith In God
Ever been in love and felt the world against your union? Join us as we sit down with the resilient couple, Darnell and Sundra Harris. For 24 years, they've navigated the high seas of disapproval, age gap, financial instability, and step-parenting, using faith as their compass and prayer as their anchor. Their compelling story not only puts a spotlight on the reality of marriage but also shares insights on how to overcome common hurdles. Darnell and Sundra open up about the early days of their m...
Aug. 18, 2023
Unlearning Productivity: Choose Rest! (Freedom Friday Throwback)
On this episode of Freedom Friday, RA challenges you and herself to choose rest in order to get more done. As counter productive as this sounds, it’s the only way to live a free life. Take a listen!
Aug. 15, 2023
The Road To Marriage: Accepting The Differences Between Men and Women; Managing Conflicts Before “I Do”; The Realities of Being Engaged To A Step Parent; and Important Things To Unlearn Before Marriage
Our guest stars, the newly-engaged Megan and Nick dive into the value of true friendship between partners, the complexities of parenthood, and the influence of the church in relationships. How does pride play a role in relationships? How do you balance being an individual and being part of a team? We share our insights on these topics, underlining the importance of unlearning preconceived notions and expectations. Also, we discuss the power of decision-making and communication in relationships a...
Aug. 11, 2023
Fast vs. Far: Unlearning Your Personal Pace (Freedom Friday Throwback)
Life comes with changes and different changes require different rhythms. Sometimes life moves fast, some times life moves a little slower. Personally, I prefer a fast pace, slightly chaotic life, but that's time has come to an end. I wonder if you can relate...
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Aug. 4, 2023
Freedom Friday - Your Faith is NOT Fixed! (Freedom Friday Throwback)
The title says it all! Take a quick listen and get a little more free!
Aug. 1, 2023
Unlearning Marriage: Twenty-Five Years of Navigating Through Finances, Challenging Family Origins, Using Strategies to Prevent Drifting, And Accumulating Wisdom Around The “Whys” of Divorce
What happens when you take two people with contrasting views on money, varying upbringing, and a sprinkle of selfishness? You get a marriage, of course! We're sitting down with Jill and Shannon Dyson, my dear friends, who have been navigating the rough seas of marriage for an impressive 25 years. They're ready to spill the beans about their adventures, the trials and tribulations, and how they've worked through their own selfish tendencies to understand each other better. They even share some fu...
July 28, 2023
Freedom Fridays: Unlearning Your Relationship with Fear (Freedom Friday Throwback)
(The mics weren’t working so excuse the sound quality) This is a fire Freedom Friday Episode! My good friend, Dr. Monique Ositelu (former olympic track qualifier, serial entrepreneur, and data storytelling expert), talks about unlearning her relationship with fear. These next 15 minutes could change the game for you!
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July 25, 2023
Unlearning Marriage: The Importance of Divorcing Things Before Marriage, Feeling Trapped After Marriage, Becoming Best Friends With Your Spouse, And Navigating Challenges Of Year One
Ever thought about what it means to 'divorce' certain aspects of your life before you say 'I do'? Join us as we explore this transformative concept with the insightful Patrick and Shemeika Harrington, a couple who has navigated 26 years of marital waters and emerged with wisdom to share. We uncover the significance of disconnecting from harmful influences, establishing healthy communication, and forging unity in the sacred journey of marriage.
July 21, 2023
Freedom Fridays with Megan Broadstreet - Information Overload! (Freedom Friday Throwback)
Megan Broadstreet joins RA this week for Freedom Fridays! She's unlearning a lot about processing truth, making mistakes, being vulnerable, etc... turns out you can cover a lot in 13 minutes!
July 21, 2023
Unlearning Marriage Series Intro
Join me as I prepare for my own impending nuptials, driven by the curiosity to understand the mysteries of marriage. Whether you're a couple seeking advice or an individual intrigued by the dynamics of intimate relationships, this series serves a feast of thought-provoking discussions. Look forward to our launch episode on July 25th and join us in discovering how unlearning can pave the way for healthier and happier relationships.
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July 14, 2023
Freedom Friday: Change is not your enemy!
Change, often feared and avoided, can actually be a tool for growth, innovation, and self-improvement— if we know how to leverage it right. I'll be sharing my own personal journey of managing anxiety and adapting to change, and why I believe change is not our enemy but a reliable companion on our journey to self-improvement.
July 7, 2023
Unlearning Limitation (Freedom Friday Throwback)
It's Freedom Friday! Join RA and her friend Maya as they talking about how letting go of limitations has made them more free!
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June 30, 2023
Freedom Friday with Jazmin Woodcox - You are ENOUGH... Even If Everyone Around You Doesn't Think So
Have you ever questioned the advice that your family passed down to you? Have you been torn between appeasing your loved ones and making decisions that truly resonates with your own needs and desires? Well, you're not alone. On our latest Freedom Friday episode, I chat with the vivacious Jazmin Woodcox, an intern at Angel Street and podcaster, who is grappling with these very questions. Jazmin is taking us on a captivating journey of self-discovery as she learns to establish personal boundaries ...
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June 27, 2023
The Art of Reverent Irreverence: Alexus Rhone’s Unique Take on Faith and Storytelling
I had the incredible opportunity to reconnect with the talented and inspiring storyteller Alexus Rohn, who first sparked my love for reading as a teenager. We chat about her journey of sharing stories about black girls and women through various mediums, such as writing, stage plays, podcasts, and more. Together, we dive into Alexus’ faith journey, from her time attending a conservative seminary in Texas to her experiences at the Brem Center in Los Angeles. We discuss the challenges faced by bla...
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June 23, 2023
Freedom Friday: Stop Letting Fear Make Decisions For You
Have you ever let fear dictate your choices, only to realize later that you could've conquered the challenge if you hadn't been so afraid? On this Freedom Friday episode, I share a personal story from my college days when fear held me back from pursuing a music education, and the valuable lesson I learned from that experience. Join me as I reflect on the importance of unlearning fear-based decision-making and believing in our own potential for growth.
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June 20, 2023
Uniting Faiths: Exploring Christianity and Unitarian Universalism
What happens when two pastors (who happen to be married!) of differing faith backgrounds engage in an open conversation about the complexities of belief, spirituality, and the challenges of guiding a congregation? Join me as I sit down with Reverend Sandra Summers and Reverend Sam Tietel, two Memphis-based pastors navigating the intricate world of religion and raising their son, Gideon, amid the blend of Christianity and Unitarian Universalism. In our conversation, we reminisce about our own pe...
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June 16, 2023
Freedom Friday: It’s Not Just What You Say but How You Say It
In this Freedom Friday, we dive into the concept of conscious communication and the freedom that comes from "unlearning" ingrained patterns. Through examining our own communication styles and understanding the impact they have on receiving and giving information, we can progress towards a brighter and more connected world. Share your thoughts with us and follow our journey on social media as we unlearn and grow together.
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June 13, 2023
Unlearning Religion: Breaking Free from Religious Boundaries with Pastor Vincent Joplin
What happens when a pastor embarks on a journey to unlearn religion? Join us as we explore this intriguing topic with our guest, Vincent Joplin, an assistant pastor at Hope Church who has been pastoring since 1999. In this thought-provoking conversation, we dive into youth ministry and the life-altering power of gospel transformation. Vincent vividly recounts his time working with young people at Manassas High School in Memphis and the importance of building relationships based on the character...
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June 9, 2023
Christian Cousins: Extending Grace to Christians That Bother You
Listen in as we wrestle with the idea of extending grace and understanding to those who may not share our beliefs, and the dangers of adopting a cancel culture within the faith community. Together, let's gain more wisdom and courage to change our minds and experience more freedom and peace in our spiritual journeys. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that will challenge your perspective and help you grow.
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June 6, 2023
Rediscovering God Beyond Rules and Practices - Reverend Roslyn Nichols
Growing up in South Memphis, Reverend Roslyn Nichols was shaped by ideas of justice, her family, and the strong women who raised her. Our conversation covers the limitations of a black and white theological understanding, the ambiguities of scripture, and the role of justice in a Christian context. We also emphasize the importance of allowing yourself permission to let your relationship with God evolve and fall apart, and finding a safe space to ask questions without judgment. As we wrap up thi...