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Behind the Confident Smile
November 11, 2025
In this episode of Behind the Confident Smile, host Bianca Cotton sits down with Kiana Jones, founder of Jones’s Jewels Learning Center, for an inspiring conversation about her mission to close the learning gap. Kiana shares how her frustration with the education system sparked a transformative vision—one rooted in holistic care, music-infused learning, and unwavering belief in every child’s potential. With over a decade of experience, she reveals how creating a safe, nurturing environment can help young learners thrive academically, emotionally, and creatively.
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Behind the Confident Smile
October 21, 2025
In this heartfelt episode of Behind the Confident Smile, host Bianca Cotton sits down with Victoria Ivy for an intimate conversation about her experience with an unplanned C-section. Together, they unpack the emotional and physical journey of navigating birth plans that don’t go as planned—exploring themes of vulnerability, strength, and grace in recovery. Through candid reflection, Bianca and Victoria offer a powerful reminder that healing and self-compassion are vital parts of every birth story.
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Behind the Confident Smile
October 14, 2025
In this episode of Behind the Confident Smile, host Bianca Cotton sits in conversation—and in community—with three phenomenal women: Star August Ali, Mary Kay Devine, and Moniqueca Long. Together, they open up about the realities of motherhood, support, and self-preservation—tackling the often-unspoken question: Who supports the mother while she supports everyone else? The discussion blends honesty, vulnerability, and empowerment in equal measure.
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Behind the Confident Smile
September 30, 2025
In this episode of Behind the Confident Smile, host Bianca Cotton sits down with Judy Weathers to explore the inner world of a military wife married to a combat soldier. Judy opens up about the love, loneliness, uncertainty, and strength that define her journey—beyond the patriotic salutes are moments of deep fear, emotional labor, missed milestones, and unwavering support.
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Behind the Confident Smile
September 23, 2025
In this episode of Behind the Confident Smile, host Bianca Cotton sits down with Rosie Drumgoole, CEO of Chicago Cares, for a candid conversation on leadership, service, and motherhood. Rosie shares how she balances the demands of running an impactful nonprofit with the realities of raising a family, offering insight into resilience, purpose, and the power of community.
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Behind the Confident Smile
September 16, 2025
In this episode of Behind the Confident Smile, host Bianca Cotton sits down with Javiel Anderson to share her powerful journey of resilience when motherhood collided with a medical crisis. Javiel opens up about discovering her youngest son, Kairo, was living with Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM), the difficult decisions that followed, and the balance of being a working parent caring for a child with complex medical needs.
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Behind the Confident Smile
September 9, 2025
Behind the Confident Smile returns with a powerful season premiere as host Bianca Cotton welcomes guest Danielle Patterson to unpack the emotional weight of the “supermom” syndrome. From the guilt of asking for help to the freedom of embracing authenticity, this candid conversation challenges the myth of perfection in motherhood and makes space for vulnerability, honesty, and healing.
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Behind the Confident Smile
December 18, 2024
In this episode of Behind the Confident Smile, host Bianca sits down with Kimberly Mhoon, a Chicago native and Howard University alumna with over 20 years of expertise in dance and fitness. Kimberly shares her journey, rooted in her training with Deeply Rooted Dance Theater and The Ailey School, and her experiences performing with prestigious companies like Forces of Nature and Broward Stage Theater’s production of The Wiz. Beyond movement, Kimberly is passionate about emotional wellness, integrating mindfulness practices, yoga, meditation, and 12-step recovery. She works with organizations like the Forest Preserve and Aunt Martha’s Health and Wellness to promote joy, body awareness, and community.
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Behind the Confident Smile
December 18, 2024
In this episode of Behind the Confident Smile, host Bianca sits down with DeLisa New Williams, M.B.A., a devoted wife, mother, writer, public speaker, and life coach. DeLisa shares her journey of joy, healing, and transformation, from being the wife of a paramedic first responder to raising a lively blended family of five. Known for her humor and faith, she talks about her six published books, including works like No Longer Am I a Baby Mama and Mommy, Where is Jesus? Is He Hiding in My Room?. DeLisa also discusses her custom apparel business, her podcasts, and how she blends truth with humor to inspire faith and healing in her community.
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Behind the Confident Smile
November 12, 2024
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.
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