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Tag: Lifestyle

  • Carla Harris: Rethink Your Career Path

    In today’s rapidly evolving professional landscape, especially for Black women navigating challenging workplace environments, the advice from seasoned leaders like Carla Harris, Vice Chairman at Morgan Stanley, is invaluable. Harris, a trailblazer who shattered glass ceilings as the second African American woman to become a managing director at the firm, emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and authenticity.

    Taking Stock and Reigniting Your Passion

    With Black women facing significant job losses due to economic shifts and anti-DEI initiatives, Harris’s core advice is to pause and reassess. “It’s time to sit back and take stock of what it is you really want to do,” she told theGrio. Her approach encourages individuals to identify what truly ignites their passion and aligns with their desired compensation, suggesting that now is an opportune moment to redefine one’s career narrative.

    Harris believes that many Black women enter demanding career paths without fully exploring their true desires. She advocates for creating a personal inventory of skills and experiences, using this period of change as an opportunity to pivot towards work that brings genuine joy and fulfillment. This intentional approach can lead to careers pursued with purpose.

    The Power of Authenticity and Support

    Reflecting on her own nearly four-decade career at Morgan Stanley, Harris shared that authenticity has been key to her longevity. Early in her career, she hid her passion for singing, fearing it would impact her professional image. However, realizing that her true self wasn’t present at work created a “competitive differential.” She learned the importance of showing up authentically, a challenge many Black women face when expected to perform at higher levels while suppressing their true identities.

    Harris also stresses the critical role of a robust support system, which she defines through her five pillars: truth-tellers, encouragers, challengers, connectors, and industry experts. She considers her close friends as mentors, highlighting how invaluable this community is, especially for Black women navigating professional and societal pressures, including those in their late 30s and 40s who may be experiencing burnout.

    For those feeling overwhelmed, Harris encourages giving oneself “grace” and redefining success. She advises continuous self-assessment: “What brings me joy? To make sure you’re getting lined up with that and you’re getting some of that, or your movements towards that every day.” Whether it’s a new role within the same company, a different position in the same industry, or a complete career change, Harris’s wisdom empowers Black women to pursue paths that are both inspiring and fulfilling.

    What are your thoughts on Carla Harris’s advice? How do you approach career reassessment and authenticity in your own professional life? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below!

  • Safaree’s Mother Passes Away: A Heartfelt Tribute

    It’s with a heavy heart that we share the news of a profound loss for rapper and reality TV personality Safaree Samuels. He recently took to social media to announce the devastating passing of his beloved mother, sharing an emotional tribute that has touched many.

    An Emotional Farewell

    On Saturday, March 28th, Safaree shared a series of heartfelt photos honoring his mother’s life. His words painted a picture of deep sorrow, revealing the immense void left by her absence. “My life is shattered… I can’t believe I can’t call you… my mommy,” he expressed, grappling with the reality of moving forward without her guidance.

    The post was met with an immediate wave of support from fans and fellow celebrities alike. The comment sections quickly filled with messages of sympathy, with many sharing their own experiences of losing a parent and acknowledging the unique pain that comes with such a significant loss.

    Navigating Grief and Privacy

    As of now, details surrounding the cause or circumstances of his mother’s death have not been publicly shared. Safaree, who has often kept his family life relatively private despite his public profile, is known to have two sisters and two children, daughter Safire Majesty and son Legend Brian, with television personality Erica Mena.

    The outpouring of condolences underscores the deep emotional impact of losing a parent. Many have urged Safaree to take the time he needs to grieve and prioritize his mental well-being during this incredibly challenging period. He has not shared further updates since his initial announcement.

    Losing a parent is one of life’s hardest experiences. What are your thoughts on Safaree’s tribute? Share your messages of support in the comments below.

  • Angel Reese: Vogue Cover, WNBA Star, HBCU Advocate

    If you’ve been following women’s basketball, fashion, or culture lately, chances are Angel Reese’s name has been everywhere. The Chicago Sky forward is having an incredible week, solidifying her status not just as a WNBA star, but as a burgeoning cultural icon. From making history with a Vogue cover to speaking about her HBCU dreams, Reese is redefining what it means to be a modern superstar.

    Making History with Vogue Australia

    Reese recently achieved a major milestone by landing the digital cover of Vogue Australia. What makes this even more special? She’s the first female athlete to grace a Vogue cover wearing her own signature sneaker, the Reebok AR1. Styled in a stunning white fringe dress and her iconic kicks, the look perfectly blends high fashion with her personal brand, showcasing her growing influence at the intersection of sports and style.

    The striking images from the photoshoot, including one featuring a dramatic white feathered bodysuit, quickly went viral. This moment isn’t just about fashion; it’s a powerful statement that Reese is claiming her space and reshaping visibility for female athletes. Even the WNBA acknowledged her impact, commenting “Changing the game” on her social media post.

    Dominance on the Court Remains Key

    While the fashion world is certainly taking notice, Reese’s foundation remains firmly rooted in basketball. Since entering the WNBA, she’s quickly become one of the league’s most productive young stars. She’s averaging an impressive 14.1 points and 12.9 rebounds per game, leading the league in rebounding for two consecutive seasons.

    Reese also holds the record for the fastest player in WNBA history to reach 500 points and 500 rebounds. Her journey from a highly-ranked recruit at Maryland to a standout professional player has been both strategic and explosive. This past offseason, she even gained international experience representing Team USA in the FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament.

    The Resonant HBCU Connection

    Beyond her athletic achievements and fashion statements, Reese recently shared a deeply personal reflection that resonated widely: her dream of attending an HBCU. While speaking at HBCU Awarefest in Atlanta, she revealed that Howard University was her dream school, a choice influenced by her cultural background and proximity to her Maryland roots.

    Reese acknowledged the tension between that desire and the opportunities presented by playing at a Power Five school like Maryland, where she initially played before transferring to LSU. Her comments sparked a significant conversation, particularly within the HBCU community, about the paths top Black athletes often take. While reactions were mixed, her honesty reinforced the enduring connection many feel towards HBCUs, even when their careers lead them elsewhere.

    More Than Just a Moment

    Individually, each of these achievements – the Vogue cover, the WNBA accolades, the heartfelt comments about HBCUs – would be noteworthy. Taken together, they offer a comprehensive look at the multifaceted individual Angel Reese is becoming. She’s not just an elite athlete; she’s a powerful cultural figure navigating identity, ambition, and visibility in real-time.

    What do you admire most about Angel Reese’s journey? How do you think she’s changing the game for athletes and culture? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • A$AP Rocky Curates Historic Home for L.A. Design Event

    In an exclusive Los Angeles design event, rapper and designer A$AP Rocky has turned heads by curating the interior of a historic modernist home. His creative studio, HOMMEMADE, transformed Paul Rudolph’s iconic Walker Guest House into a fully shoppable installation, blending collectible design with a lived-in atmosphere.

    HOMMEMADE Debuts with a Historic Gem

    The three-day showcase, hosted by Basic.Space.LA at the Pacific Design Center, featured over 80 designers and galleries. At its core was the Walker Guest House, a compact yet influential structure designed by modernist architect Paul Rudolph in 1952. Listed for $2 million, the home was meticulously reassembled and outfitted with an interior curated by Rocky himself.

    Rocky described the project as more than just decoration, emphasizing its role in storytelling through space. “HOMMEMADE isn’t about decorating, it’s about storytelling through space,” he told Architectural Digest. “I like when something feels intentional, but still lived in… I want people to experience design the same way they experience music—fully immersed.”

    A Blend of Vintage and Contemporary

    Inside the wood-and-glass structure, visitors encountered a thoughtfully arranged selection of vintage and contemporary furnishings, all available for purchase. This display perfectly reflects Rocky’s multidisciplinary approach, seamlessly merging elements of art, fashion, and architecture into a cohesive and immersive environment.

    Originally built on Sanibel Island, Florida, the Walker Guest House is renowned for its adaptable design, featuring wooden panels that can shift to provide shade or enclosure using heavy counterweights. The structure was later relocated to California by a private collector before being prepared for this unique exhibition.

    Preserving History, Embracing Retail

    Architects oversaw the reconstruction of the house outside the design center, ensuring its original orientation was maintained. While structural adjustments were made to reinforce the building, its historic character was carefully preserved alongside A$AP Rocky’s decor. Event founder Jesse Lee aimed to surpass the previous year’s installation, which featured a transported European structure.

    By combining a rare architectural landmark with a contemporary retail concept, the exhibition highlights Los Angeles’ embrace of creative experimentation. Rocky’s involvement, organizers noted, underscores the event’s mission to dissolve boundaries between creative disciplines and present design as an accessible, immersive experience.

    What do you think of A$AP Rocky’s foray into interior design and curation? Would you be interested in purchasing pieces from his HOMMEMADE studio? Let us know in the comments below!

  • Kerry Washington’s Secret to a Strong Marriage: Preventative Therapy

    What if the secret to a thriving marriage wasn’t about fixing problems, but about preventing them in the first place? That’s exactly the philosophy Kerry Washington and her husband, former NFL star Nnamdi Asomugha, live by. The “Scandal” star recently shared that they turned to couples therapy not when things were tough, but as a proactive measure to strengthen their bond.

    A Proactive Approach to Partnership

    Speaking on the “Call Her Daddy” podcast with Alex Cooper, Washington revealed, “We started couples therapy before anything was wrong… kind of preventatively.” She explained that this approach helps them build a strong foundation for communication, especially since her husband was newer to therapy than she was. “We were like, ‘We should just start having these conversations so that if something does get hard, we already have a culture of knowing how to talk about stuff.’”

    This strategy is all about fostering a healthy relationship dynamic. By regularly discussing their feelings and learning each other’s perspectives, they ensure they have the tools to navigate future challenges together. It’s like a regular check-up for their marriage, keeping it in top shape.

    More Than Just a Meeting: Therapy as a Joyful Ritual

    Washington doesn’t just see therapy as a tool; she genuinely enjoys it! She described her sessions with Asomugha as “the best part of my week,” likening them to a mix of a logistics meeting, a party, and a date. This positive framing makes a potentially daunting activity something to look forward to.

    A key element of their sessions is starting with appreciation. “We start every session with something that the other person did well. Like something that we appreciate about the other person,” she shared. This simple practice sets a positive tone and highlights the good in their relationship.

    So often the thing he shares with me that he appreciated—or the thing I share with him—it’s not something I would’ve guessed. It’s something that to me was small, but to him it meant a lot. — Kerry Washington

    This practice of sharing unexpected appreciations helps them “learn how to love each other better.” It reveals how small gestures can have a significant impact and deepens their understanding of each other’s needs and feelings. It’s a beautiful way to continuously discover new facets of your partner.

    A Private Partnership in the Public Eye

    Washington and Asomugha, who married in 2013, have intentionally kept their relationship private despite their high-profile careers. They have two children together, and Washington is also a stepmother. This commitment to privacy allows them to nurture their partnership away from the glare of the spotlight.

    As Washington told People Magazine in 2024, “I think just from the very beginning, Nnamdi and I have been really protective of our partnership and our relationship, because we wanted it to belong to us, and we found that we were able to define and create a relationship for ourselves and with each other outside of the public eye.”

    Their dedication to protecting their private life while openly embracing tools like preventative therapy offers a unique model for modern relationships. It shows that strong partnerships are built on consistent effort, open communication, and a shared commitment to growth.

    What are your thoughts on preventative couples therapy? Do you think it’s a valuable tool for maintaining a strong relationship? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below!

  • Lamar Odom: From Coma to Sobriety, Inspired by Kobe

    Imagine facing the unthinkable – a near-fatal overdose, a coma, and doctors telling you that walking and talking again might be impossible. For former NBA star Lamar Odom, this was a harsh reality. But today, he’s not just walking and talking; he’s thriving, calling every single day a blessing and crediting a legendary teammate for inspiring his path to sobriety.

    A Miraculous Survival Story

    Lamar Odom’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. After a devastating drug overdose at a Las Vegas brothel in 2015, he was placed in a medically induced coma. During this critical period, he suffered multiple strokes and heart attacks. Miraculously, he survived, but the road to recovery was incredibly challenging.

    His incredible life story, marked by triumphs on the basketball court, personal struggles, and a near-death experience, is now the subject of an upcoming Netflix documentary titled “Untold: The Death & Life of Lamar Odom.” This film promises a candid look into his rise to NBA stardom, his marriage to Khloe Kardashian, and his ongoing battle with addiction.

    The Impact of Kobe Bryant’s Mamba Mentality

    In a candid interview with Kevin Hart back in 2018, Odom revealed the sheer extent of his physical trauma, stating he endured 12 strokes and six heart attacks while in the coma. He’s now about 56-57 days sober, abstaining from alcohol and drugs. He shared with Page Six, “I’m just [continuing] to grow mentally and spiritually. I do try to be my best self and practice the Mamba mentality, which has been passed down to me by my late brother [Kobe Bryant].”

    Kobe Bryant, Odom’s former Lakers teammate and close friend, was a source of support during Odom’s recovery. Though Odom wasn’t conscious when Bryant visited him in the hospital, knowing his friend was there meant the world. Odom reflects, “To know that he was there… When I’m reflecting on it, I think that’s probably what pulled me through. The love that I was getting from everybody. It’s always good to have support, and of course support from your brothers.”

    Embracing Each Day as a Gift

    Since Kobe Bryant’s tragic passing in January 2020, his legacy, particularly the ‘Mamba Mentality,’ has continued to inspire many. For Odom, it’s a guiding principle as he focuses on his personal growth. He’s dedicating time to reading and sharpening his mind, a stark contrast to the challenges he faced when doctors initially doubted his ability to recover.

    Odom’s story is a powerful testament to resilience and the human spirit. His journey from the brink of death to a place of sobriety and continued growth, fueled by the memory of a beloved friend, is truly inspiring. As he puts it, “When I woke up [from the 2015 coma], they told me I would never walk and talk again….And so, every day is a blessing.”

    What are your thoughts on Lamar Odom’s incredible journey and the inspiration he draws from Kobe Bryant? Share your reflections in the comments below!

  • Tyler Perry’s $1,000 Gift Cards for Unpaid TSA Agents

    Ever feel like you just want to help someone out, but the rules get in the way? That’s exactly what happened to the incredible Tyler Perry when he wanted to support TSA agents working without pay during a government shutdown. But you know Tyler Perry – if there’s a will, there’s a way!

    A Generous Gesture, A Legal Hurdle

    Imagine working without a paycheck for weeks. That was the reality for many TSA agents at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport. When Tyler Perry heard about their situation, he wanted to step in and offer some financial relief. His initial thought? To simply hand out cash.

    However, he was informed that directly paying federal employees cash wasn’t permissible. This is where Perry’s determination to do good really shone through. Instead of giving up, he found a different, perfectly legal route to get much-needed funds to these hardworking individuals.

    The Loophole: Gift Cards to the Rescue!

    Perry, the media mogul known for his generosity, ultimately gifted approximately 250 TSA officers $1,000 gift cards. This thoughtful donation was made on a Friday, following a period of intense negotiation in Washington regarding funding for agencies like Homeland Security and the TSA.

    Aaron Barker, president of the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) Local 554 union, confirmed that Perry’s gift cards went through the proper legal channels. There are indeed specific guidelines for gifting items to federal employees, and Perry made sure to follow them.

    The Impact of the Shutdown

    This shutdown, which began on February 14th, meant TSA workers missed out on a staggering $1 billion in paychecks. To make ends meet, many were forced to take on second jobs or even donate blood and plasma. Sadly, over 480 workers nationwide quit their jobs due to the financial hardship.

    While Perry’s gesture provided immediate relief, the broader issues of airport wait times and staffing shortages persisted. Even with the promise of back pay, the disruption caused by the shutdown had a significant impact on both the workers and travelers.

    What do you think about Tyler Perry’s creative solution to support TSA agents? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Megan Thee Stallion’s Heartwarming Dog Rescue Story

    You know Megan Thee Stallion for her chart-topping hits and fierce stage presence, but did you know she has a heart of gold when it comes to furry friends? The Houston rapper recently shared an incredibly moving story about how she rescued a dog named Tyger from a kill shelter, literally hours before he was scheduled to be euthanized. It’s a tale that’s as heartwarming as it is a powerful call to action for animal adoption.

    A Shocking Discovery: The Reality of Kill Shelters

    Megan took to social media on March 26th to reveal her new rescue, Tyger. She admitted that she had only recently learned about the existence of “kill shelters” – facilities that are often forced to euthanize animals due to overcrowding and lack of resources. The idea that healthy animals could be put down simply because they couldn’t find a home deeply affected her.

    “Okay so you guys, I was yesterday years old when I found that there’s such thing as a kill shelter,” she candidly told her followers in a video. “And they are putting down dogs when they cannot find them a home. That is insane.” This revelation clearly struck a chord with the artist, prompting immediate action.

    Tyger’s Last-Minute Rescue

    Tyger was on the brink. According to Megan, the pup was slated for euthanasia on the very day she stepped in. Without hesitation, she decided to intervene personally, saying, “No way. Just give him to me. I’ll take him.” She knew she had to save him, even wondering how her existing pets might react.

    In the emotional footage she shared, Megan is seen cuddling a visibly relieved Tyger. As the dog nuzzled into her neck, she beamed, declaring him her “new son.” It’s a beautiful moment that highlights the profound impact one person can have on an animal’s life.

    A New Life for Tyger

    Tyger is now settling into a life of luxury and love, joining Megan’s other famous pets: her French bulldog, 4oe, and her Maine coon cat, Nine. While 4oe is no stranger to the spotlight, having appeared on TV and enjoyed professional photoshoots, Tyger’s arrival marks a significant moment in Megan’s journey as a pet parent, emphasizing advocacy.

    Even while commanding standing ovations on Broadway in “Moulin Rouge!,” Megan continues to use her platform to advocate for animals in need. By sharing Tyger’s story, she’s shining a much-needed light on the millions of shelter animals waiting for their forever homes and the critical importance of adoption.

    More Than Just a Pet

    Tyger’s rescue is a powerful reminder that for countless animals, a single act of kindness can be the difference between life and death. Megan’s decision to save Tyger not only gives him a loving home but also raises awareness about the urgent crisis facing animal shelters nationwide. It’s a true testament to her big heart and her commitment to making a difference.

    What do you think about Megan Thee Stallion’s incredible rescue? Have you ever adopted a pet from a shelter? Share your stories and thoughts in the comments below!

  • Brandy & Whitney Houston’s Enduring Bond

    In Hollywood, true connections are rare, but the bond between Brandy and the late Whitney Houston was something truly special. From their iconic collaboration in the 1997 TV musical “Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella” to a lifelong mentorship, Houston left an indelible mark on Brandy’s life and career.

    A Fairy Godmother’s Influence

    Brandy, now 47, recently opened up in her memoir, “Phases,” about her profound relationship with Houston. She recalls falling in love with Houston’s voice at just 7 years old after hearing “Greatest Love of All.” This early admiration blossomed into a mentorship that felt like a fairy godmother guiding her through the tumultuous waters of fame.

    Their first real meeting, beyond a brief encounter at the 1995 Kids’ Choice Awards, happened when Brandy was just 12. Aspiring to meet BeBe and CeCe Winans on “The Tonight Show,” Brandy bravely asked if they could connect her with Houston. Within minutes, her idol was on the phone, a pivotal moment that set the stage for their enduring connection.

    The Magic of ‘Cinderella’

    Just two years after their initial meeting, Houston handpicked Brandy to star as Cinderella in the beloved 1997 remake. Houston herself played the Fairy Godmother, executive producing the project and solidifying their on-screen fairy tale dynamic. The film, celebrated for its diverse casting and timeless songs like “Impossible,” was a cultural moment.

    This project wasn’t just a career milestone for Brandy; it marked the formal beginning of a fairy godmother-and-fairy goddaughter-like relationship. Houston’s support extended far beyond the set, offering Brandy guidance, a listening ear, and constant inspiration as she navigated her own rise in the R&B world.

    A Lasting Legacy of Advice

    Throughout Brandy’s career, Houston remained a steadfast presence. She even tapped Brandy for the soundtrack of her film “Waiting to Exhale,” leading to the hit “Sittin’ Up in My Room.” Brandy emphasizes that Houston’s investment in her future was genuine and ongoing, far beyond a simple photo op.

    Tragically, Whitney Houston passed away on February 11, 2012, at the age of 48. Just days before, she gave Brandy a handwritten note and had a nearly three-hour phone call on what was Brandy’s 33rd birthday. During that conversation, Houston’s most profound advice was for Brandy to remain authentic.

    She went into depth about me staying true to who I am. She made me promise her that. — Brandy on Whitney Houston’s advice

    This powerful message of authenticity has stayed with Brandy, shaping how she lives her life and approaches her career. The enduring bond between these two music legends serves as a beautiful testament to mentorship, friendship, and the lasting impact one person can have on another.

    What are your favorite memories of Brandy and Whitney Houston? Share them in the comments below!

  • Alaina Hoskins: Affirmations in a Bottle

    If you ever doubted that your best days are ahead of you, let Alaina Hoskins be your inspiration. At 57, she’s not just living; she’s thriving. Hoskins is a perfumer, an entrepreneur, a soon-to-be magna cum laude college graduate, a newly initiated Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. member, a mother, and the founder of The Strongest Fragrance Bar. Her journey is a powerful testament to reinvention, especially after facing immense loss.

    From Loss to Launch: A New Beginning

    Hoskins openly shares her age, believing it offers hope to others. She navigated a very public and difficult divorce that led to the loss of her marriage, homes, and financial stability. Yet, on the other side of that devastation, she found a new path. “I reinvented myself. I started over,” she told theGrio, emphasizing that this difficult period was not her end.

    Her passion for perfume making spans over 30 years, initially a personal gift before becoming a business. For years, she channeled her creativity into other ventures, including a career as a hairstylist and authoring her 2016 book, “Behind Church Doors: Overcoming Church Hurt.” A pivotal moment came with a styling gig for a Nike campaign celebrating strong women, which led to a five-year role as Gloria James’ personal stylist. This experience, celebrating feminine strength, planted the seeds for her entrepreneurial journey.

    Affirmations in a Bottle

    At 54, Hoskins launched The Strongest Fragrance Bar with a mission to empower women and girls. “We call it affirmations in the bottle,” she explained. The idea is simple yet profound: wear a scent that not only smells good but also shifts your atmosphere and helps you embody the feelings you desire, even if you’re not feeling them initially. It’s about boosting confidence and intention.

    The brand’s initial collection featured five scents: Compassion, Fearless, Ambitious, Empowered, and Selfless. These fragrances are more than just pleasant aromas; they are intentions carried on the skin. Most recently, Hoskins expanded her unique concept with a groundbreaking collection dedicated to the Divine 9 Greek organizations.

    A Fragrant Tribute to the Divine 9

    Inspired by her own experience pledging Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. at the University of the District of Columbia, Hoskins created “Crimson.” This led to the development of what may be the first fragrance collection honoring all nine organizations of the National Pan-Hellenic Council. While designed as a love letter to Black Greek organizations, the scents are crafted for anyone to enjoy, with names like “Standard” (Alpha Phi Alpha), “Simply Pretty” (Alpha Kappa Alpha), “Ikonik” (Kappa Alpha Psi), “Instinct” (Omega Psi Phi), “Noble” (Phi Beta Sigma), and “Eloquence” (Zeta Phi Beta).

    Investing in Legacy and Future

    Hoskins’ commitment extends beyond fragrance; she’s dedicated to investing in legacy through scholarships for single mothers attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This cause is deeply personal, stemming from her own experience of becoming homeless and a single mother after her 25-year marriage ended. She worked tirelessly to ensure her daughters’ futures weren’t derailed by their hardship.

    She understands the critical importance of scholarships, having witnessed students drop out due to financial struggles or unexpected parenthood. “I wanted to give back,” she stated, aiming to make life easier for students who might otherwise be forced to abandon their educational dreams. Her business, therefore, is more than just a venture; it’s a message of resilience and support.

    Hoskins’ journey is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to start over, no matter how broken or far behind you may feel. Grounded in her faith, she sees her life experiences—the divorce, public humiliation, professional setbacks, homelessness, and welfare—not as defeats, but as purposeful detours. “Everything is new,” she reflects, embracing this vibrant new chapter. “If I can do it, you can do it.”

    What inspires you most about Alaina Hoskins’ story? Share your thoughts on her journey and her message of hope for women in the comments below!