Behind the Confident Smile, hosted Bianca N. Cotton, is a place for women to talk about what’s behind their smiles. We say NO MORE to suffering in silence. It is our time to truly walk in purpose daily.
Season 3 Episode 7
Walking Together: Sibling Perspectives on Special Needs
In this episode of Behind the Confident Smile, host Bianca Cotton sits down with Kadince McCrary, a passionate young Chicagoan with a deep interest in healthcare, and LaKara Bailey, a dedicated volunteer and Amtrak employee. Together, they share their personal experiences and insights on the unique challenges of supporting siblings with special needs. This heartfelt conversation explores themes of family, resilience, and the power of community in navigating these challenges.
Season 3 Episode 6
Her Health, Her Story: Black Women and Fibroids Special
In this powerful one-hour special of Behind the Confident Smile, titled “Her Health, Her Story: Black Women and Fibroids,” host Bianca Cotton engages in an enlightening discussion with Dr. Clark-White, a board-certified OB-GYN, and guests Adreiona Jennings and Jahlisa Murphy. Filmed in front of a live studio audience, the episode addresses the unique health challenges that Black women face, particularly concerning fibroids. The conversation emphasizes the importance of holistic care, education, and empowerment, offering valuable insights and resources for better health management.
Season 3 Episode 5
Living with PCOS: Navigating Hormonal Health
In this episode of Behind the Confident Smile, host Bianca interviews LaCresia Walker, a 35-year-old Chicago native and devoted mother to her lively 2-year-old son, named in honor of her late brother. LaCresia shares her poignant story of being raised by her grandparents after losing her mother at a young age. She opens up about her experiences as a stay-at-home mom, navigating the joys and challenges of motherhood, and her journey living with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a diagnosis she received in her early twenties. LaCresia’s story is one of resilience, love, and the strength found in overcoming personal struggles.
Season 3 Episode 5
Did Someone Say Peri? Living perimenopausal
In this episode of Behind the Confident Smile, host Bianca welcomes DeLisa New Williams, M.B.A., a dynamic speaker, author, and life coach. DeLisa shares her candid experiences with perimenopause, infusing the conversation with humor and faith. Her insights offer a relatable and empowering perspective on navigating this transitional phase of life, emphasizing resilience and the importance of maintaining a positive outlook.
Season 3 Episode 4
Stronger Than Ever: My Journey Through Stroke and Heart Surgery Part 2
In this episode of Behind the Confident Smile, host Bianca interviews Menia “MJ” Morris, who shares her inspiring journey of overcoming a stroke and heart surgery. MJ opens up about the challenges she faced during her recovery and how her resilience and strength have played a crucial role in her healing process. Through her story, MJ illustrates the importance of embracing life with renewed vigor and a positive outlook, offering hope and motivation to others facing similar struggles.
Season 3 Episode 3
Stronger Than Ever: My Journey Through Stroke and Heart Surgery
In this episode of Behind the Confident Smile, host Bianca interviews Menia “MJ” Morris, who shares her remarkable journey of overcoming stroke and heart surgery. Discover how MJ’s resilience and strength have guided her recovery and empowered her to embrace life with renewed vigor.
Season 3 Episode 2
Healing Mental Illness
In this episode of Behind the Confident Smile, host Bianca interviews Crystal Turner, a seasoned Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and founder of Mentally Magnificent and Inspire1Wellness. With over 25 years of experience, Crystal shares her expertise on healing mental illness and empowering the African American community to overcome trauma and achieve holistic well-being. This conversation offers valuable insights into mental health and wellness.
Season 3 Episode 1
Overcoming Obesity
In the Season Premiere of Behind the Confident Smile, Bianca interviews Jennifer Bush about her transformative journey from struggling with obesity to achieving a significant weight loss of over 250 pounds. Raised in the Chicago suburbs and educated by her CPS teacher parents, Jennifer’s story reflects her inner strength and faith. Discover her battle with weight and the life-changing steps she took with the help of her support system and physician. Now deeply involved in ministry and enjoying life’s simple pleasures, Jennifer’s journey is a testament to resilience and self-discovery.
Season 2 Episode 20
14 & On My Own
Join us on 'Behind The Confident Smile' as Leslie Roberson, founder of The Black Beauty Collective, shares her inspiring transformation from model and veteran to a trailblazing entrepreneur. Leslie discusses how her experiences have shaped her mission to revolutionize Black-owned beauty brands, focusing on meeting the specific beauty needs of Black women and empowering entrepreneurs. This episode delves into her efforts to create a supportive community that breaks barriers and fosters innovation in the beauty industry.
Season 2 Episode 19
Girls & Women Hoop Too
Discover Ana Sierra's transformative journey from a basketball prodigy in the Bronx/Harlem to a Chicago community leader and founder of the Ana Sierra Women’s Basketball League (ASWBL). Ana’s story highlights the power of sports in empowering women and girls, showcasing her shift from athlete to advocate. This episode reveals how her dedication to sportsmanship and community has inspired a new generation.
Season 2 Episode 18
Grace Amidst Grief: A Widow's Journey of Mothering Four
Join us for an inspiring episode of 'Behind The Confident Smile' featuring LaSandra, a dedicated speaker, social justice advocate, and founder of Grace and Grief. In the wake of her husband's sudden passing, LaSandra navigated the depths of grief alongside her four children, transforming her personal pain into a powerful platform for support and healing. Through Grace & Grief, she has become a beacon of hope for those facing loss, channeling her experiences into a mission that empowers others through her YouTube channel, public speaking engagements, and grief coaching services. This episode offers an intimate look at how resilience and understanding can lead to profound acts of service, providing solace and strength to many.
Season 2 Episode 17
Becoming a Doula
This episode features an inspiring discussion with Sala Spencer, a distinguished healthcare professional and passionate community advocate. With her extensive background as a Registered Nurse, Certified Birth Doula, and her journey towards becoming a Certified Infant Mental Health Specialist, Sala offers invaluable insights into maternal and infant health. Having attended over 200 births, her commitment to enhancing healthcare outcomes for mothers and their babies is evident. This episode shines a light on Sala's profound impact on families through her work, sharing her experiences and the importance of support during one of life's most significant moments.
Season 2 Episode 16
Re-Entering Society
On 'Behind the Confident Smile,' dive into the extraordinary story of Diana, a woman who transformed her life from incarceration to becoming a pivotal figure for Chicago's youth. This episode takes you through Diana's incredible journey of rebuilding her life after release, from her time in a halfway house to her influential role as the Director of Youth Engagement. Hear how Diana dedicates herself to being a beacon of hope, passionately working to ensure that her past does not dictate her future, and inspiring others to believe in the power of change and redemption.
Season 2 Episode 15
Breaking the Silence: Navigating Infertility as a Black Woman - A Motherhood Quest
In a powerful and moving episode, host Bianca Cotton is joined by Sara Brown, Erica Williams, and Brandi P., who open up about their personal battles with infertility. This discussion shines a light on the often overlooked issue of infertility among Black women, delving into their individual journeys, the broader societal impact, and the quest for solutions. Offering a blend of personal stories, insights, and empowerment, this episode provides hope and solidarity for those navigating similar challenges, emphasizing the importance of awareness and support within the community.
Season 2 Episode 14
Graduating College at 40
Host Bianca Cotton sits down with Ja'Niece Nelson, whose journey embodies the essence of lifelong learning and unwavering dedication. Achieving her Bachelor of Science in Child Maternal Health/Human Lactation at the age of 40, Ja'Niece's path is not just academic; it's deeply personal. From her early experiences as a new mother to becoming a certified Breastfeeding Peer Counselor, Labor Doula, Postpartum Doula, Child Birth Educator, and an advocate for family support, her story is a beacon of inspiration. This episode celebrates Ja'Niece's remarkable journey, highlighting the powerful message that it's never too late to pursue your dreams and make a meaningful impact.
Season 2 Episode 13
Living Authentically
Host Bianca Cotton engages in a profound conversation with Yvonne Orr, acclaimed for her extensive experience in development, communications, and nonprofit management. Orr, the leader of YORR Consulting Group and an accomplished artist, brings her unique insights from Chicago's cultural and philanthropic spheres. This episode offers an enriching exploration of Orr's expertise in blending professional leadership with artistic creativity, making it a must-watch in our archive.
Season 2 Episode 12
Parental Advocacy in Schools
Join Bianca Cotton and guest Lakesha Spight, an experienced social worker, as they explore the importance of parental rights and advocacy in education, offering essential insights for both educators and parents.
Season 2 Episode 11
Being a Teen Mom
Meet Lakesha Spight, a dedicated social worker and Aurora University graduate, as she shares her powerful journey of becoming a teen mom at 16 with host Bianca Cotton. Discover her inspiring story of resilience and dedication.
Season 2 Episode 10
Living With Albinism
Host Bianca Cotton is joined by Ursula Harris, who discusses her experience falling in love as a teen and the unexpected loss of her first love.
Season 2 Episode 9
Living With Albinism
Host Bianca Cotton is joined by Brandi Green to discuss her unique experiences growing up with Albinism.
Season 2 Episode 8
Life Before the Attacks
Host Bianca Cotton sits down with Karli Butler to delve into her inspiring story of resilience and transformation following two life-altering attacks.
Season 2 Episode 7
Pregnancy, Postpartum & Pills
Host Bianca Cotton is joined by guest Jordan Owens to share a deeply personal narrative on the trials of challenging pregnancies, the silent struggle with postpartum depression, and the decision to seek help through medication.
Season 2 Episode 6
Raising a King Creator...A Love Letter from a Black Mama
Join host Bianca Cotton and her special guest Pam Bozeman for an empowering discussion on nurturing Black male children to embrace their inner king. Discover the strategies and love that can transform a child into a King.
Season 2 Episode 5
Surviving Sexual Violence
oin host Bianca Cotton and special guest Marline Johnson in a raw and courageous conversation about Marline's journey of surviving sexual violence. Witness strength, resilience, and the power of sharing untold stories.
Season 2 Episode 4
10-year Journey to Medical School
Host Bianca Cotton chats with Travette Daniel about the obstacles she overcame during her 10-year pursuit of medical school.
Season 2 Episode 3
Diagnosed with ADHD in Adulthood
Host Bianca Cotton chats with Farah Harris about her experience with being diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood.
Season 2 Episode 2
From Incarceration to CEO
Host Bianca Cotton chats with Debra Vines about her experience with incarceration and how she used her pain for a purpose.
Season 2 Episode 1
Becoming a Foster Parent
Host Bianca Cotton chats with Katie Cangemi about her transformative journey into foster parenting and insights gained from her foster son.
Season 1 Episode 18
The Woman Behind the Confident Smile
Guest host T'era Burton interviews Bianca Cotton for a captivating episode of Behind the Confident Smile where the conversation takes a look at the woman behind the confident smile.
Season 1 Episode 17
Becoming a Foster Parent (Part 1)
Join Bianca Cotton and Katie Cangemi for a captivating episode of Behind the Confident Smile where the conversation will revolve around the journey to becoming a foster parent.
Season 1 Episode 16
The Battle of Losing Weight
Join Bianca Cotton and Michi Watts for a captivating episode of Behind the Confident Smile where the conversation will revolve around the battle of losing weight.
Season 1 Episode 15
Becoming a Mother at 40
Join Bianca Cotton and Heather Ireland-Robinson for a captivating episode of Behind the Confident Smile where the conversation will revolve around becoming a mother at 40.
Season 1 Episode 14
Caring for a Parent/Grandparent
Join Bianca Cotton and Poshlyn Nicholson for a captivating episode of Behind the Confident Smile where the conversation will revolve around caring for a parent or grandparent.
Season 1 Episode 13
Growing Up Biracial
Bianca Cotton interviews Adreiona Jennings for a captivating episode that revolves around the challenges and joys of growing up as a biracial individual.
Season 1 Episode 12
Living w/ An Autoimmune Disorder
Bianca Cotton interviews Auriel Banister on how she copes with her Autoimmune Disorder.
Season 1 Episode 11
Pieces of Me
Host Bianca cotton interviews J’ai Brown on how she picked up the pieces as an adoptee.
Season 1 Episode 10
Strong Black Woman Syndrome
Ramona Burress joins Bianca Cotton to discuss strong black woman syndrome.
Season 1 Episode 9
My Journey as an Adoptee
J'ai Brown joins Bianca Cotton to share her story as an adoptee.
Season 1 Episode 8
Single Mother to Entrepreneur
Norma S. Williams joins Bianca Cotton to discuss being a single mother and her journey to entrepreneurship.
Season 1 Episode 7
Fortitude After Death of Spouse
Elle Davis joins Bianca Cotton to discuss life after her husband's death.
Season 1 Episode 6
Living with Breast Cancer
Host Bianca Cotton interviews Ramona Burress on living with breast cancer.
Season 1 Episode 5
I Survived Domestic Abuse
Host Bianca Cotton interviews Michelle Ramirez who survived a domestic abuse relationship.
Season 1 Episode 4
Climbing the Workplace Ladder as a Woman of Color
Host Bianca cotton interviews Dawnielle Smith as they discuss Climbing the Workplace Ladder as a Woman of Color.
Season 1 Episode 3
How Lying and Cheating Ruined My Marriage (Part 1)
Host Bianca Cotton interviews Menia “MJ” Johnson on how her first marriage went from bliss to divorce.
Season 1 Episode 2
Fortitude after Death of Spouse
Host Bianca Cotton interviews (Guest) T'era Burton on her journey to motherhood and what she has learned along the way. Behind the Confident Smile was recorded at CAN TV Studios.
Season 1 Episode 1
The Emotional Journey from Miscarriage to Motherhood
Host Bianca Cotton interviews (Guest) T'era Burton on her journey to motherhood and what she has learned along the way. Behind the Confident Smile was recorded at CAN TV Studios.