Besa Gordon’s journey to national recognition is a testament to resilience, community, and the power of dreams. With the exciting news that her show, Back2Besa, is joining the FOX SOUL platform, she remains grounded in her purpose: showcasing stories that truly reflect her community.

“Although the show has my name on it, it’s not just about me,” Besa shares. “It's about our community. It's about what our community should look like to the general public, and especially now that we're going on a national platform, it's even more important for everyone's story to be told as naturally as possible."

Born and raised in Seattle’s Central District, Besa’s path was shaped by her love for storytelling and her determination to make her dreams a reality. From a young age, she envisioned herself on television. After graduating from Cleveland High School in 2008, she took her first steps toward that vision by launching her entertainment blog, Naybesa.com. Her passion for media quickly gained traction, leading her to contribute as a writer for Seaspot.com and later expanding her presence with the launch of her YouTube channel, Naybesa TV, in 2010. Through her videos, Besa offered candid, unfiltered takes on everything from pop culture to community issues, establishing herself as a fresh and dynamic voice.

Her break into radio came in 2015 when she joined iHeartMedia’s Street Team in Seattle, working tirelessly behind the scenes at KUBE 93. She set up tents, passed out stickers, organized contests—whatever it took to learn the ropes and prove her dedication. That hard work paid off when she earned her own show, Besa At Night, on KUBE 93.3 in 2018. Over time, her radio career flourished, with her voice reaching audiences on HITS 106.1 in Seattle, JAM’N 107.5 in Portland, B95 in Fresno, V101.1 in Sacramento, and 102.3 The Beat in Austin, Texas.

Through it all, Besa’s journey has been anything but easy. There were moments when giving up might have seemed like the simpler choice, but her belief in herself kept her going. 

Her unwavering determination has not only allowed her to live out her dreams but also to uplift others along the way. Known for her selflessness, Besa is committed to creating opportunities for those around her. As she steps into this new chapter with FOX SOUL, she’s bringing her Converge Media family with her.

“I’m not going by myself,” Besa says with a smile. “I’m taking my Converge family with me.”

Besa Gordon’s story is proof that success isn’t just about reaching the top—it’s about bringing others with you and staying true to the community that shaped you.

Jamila Conley, a former tech executive, is on a mission to transform the wine industry. Frustrated by the lack of diversity, she founded WeRise Wines, a wine bar that celebrates underrepresented winemakers. By sharing their personal stories, Jamila hopes to inspire others and drive change within the predominantly white, male-dominated wine world.

Learn more: www.WeRiseWines.com

Dr. Amy Xie, a CDC Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer, provided valuable insights into navigating the upcoming "respiratory season." Explaining the resurgence of illnesses like whooping cough and the importance of proactive measures, such as getting vaccinated against flu, COVID-19, whooping cough, and RSV. Dr. Xie stressed the need to stay home when feeling unwell and maintain good hygiene practices to protect oneself and the community.

Highlighting the role of epidemiologists in monitoring disease patterns and investigating causes, emphasizing the collaborative effort between public health agencies and the public to stay healthy during the winter months.

Trae Holiday sat down with Phoenix Rockwell-Davidson as she provided an in-depth overview of the Covenant Home Loan program, a groundbreaking initiative offering up to $150,000 in interest-free down payment and closing cost assistance for first-time home buyers from the global majority in Washington state.

Rockwell-Davidson highlighted the program's historical context, rooted in addressing the state's long history of discriminatory policies that prevented people of color from accessing homeownership.

Heru Tchaasamen was recently elevated to the title of Shechem, or chief, of a Kemetic spiritual organization in the Pacific Northwest. He discusses the significance of the winter solstice as a time for spiritual reset and goal-setting.

Tchaasamen is hosting an event on December 22nd focused on holistic healing, meditation, and rewiring the mind to detach from white supremacy. Emphasizing the importance of identifying as a divine being and aligning internal beliefs with external actions. The event will feature various ancient healing modalities to facilitate personal growth and community wellness.

Destiny Wimpye, a professional ballet dancer, graced The Day With Trae to discuss her newly established foundation and her commitment to inspiring and educating the next generation of dancers. Wimpye highlighted her partnership with Families First Community Center, emphasizing their collaborative efforts to provide free community classes. She also expressed her aspirations to expand these opportunities by connecting with school districts, aiming to introduce ballet to underserved communities.

Hanad Abdi is a trailblazing first-generation Somali American actor making waves in the entertainment industry. He has appeared in notable productions such as Hulu's "Dave" and Apple TV's "Little America," where he portrays stories that resonate deeply with his own experiences as a Somali immigrant. With a promising career ahead of him, Abdi is an emerging talent to watch.

"If I make you feel good, my day is going to be all right." - Josephine Howell.

Josephine Howell, a renowned vocalist in the Pacific Northwest, recently shared her inspiring journey with Trae Holiday. From discovering her gift of song to using her voice to uplift and heal, Josephine's story is a testament to the power of music and purpose.

"My gift makes people be quiet long enough to hear what I gotta say." - Josephine Howell.

Josephine's passion for her craft and commitment to her community are evident in her numerous projects. She is a featured performer in the upcoming production of Black Nativity, an iconic show that celebrates the story of the Nativity through gospel music and dance playing at the Broadway Performance Hall December 4th - 29th.

"I'm always...put your money where your mouth is, and don't always wait for somebody else to do for you what you can do for yourself and for others." - Josephine Howell.

In addition, Josephine is producing her own concert, Sounds of the Sound 7, on November 30th at Town Hall Seattle. This event showcases a diverse range of talented artists from the Puget Sound region, providing a platform for their voices to be heard.

Watch the full interview to hear Josephine's incredible story and learn more about these exciting events.

#JosephineHowell #BlackNativity #SoundsOfTheSound #Inspiration #Music #Healing #Community #Seattle #Talent

Dr. Sabine Thomas, Executive Director of JSOL STUDIOS, joined us on The Day With Trae. Host Trae Holiday spoke with Dr. Thomas about the organization's groundbreaking program, "Anchoring Our Roots." This initiative focuses on nurturing the parent-child relationship by empowering grandparents through coaching, education, and community-building.

Dr. Thomas emphasized the program's focus on grandparents, stating, "We really, really, really wanted to focus on our grandparents. This gift that our elders are offering to our little ones...is exactly what we want to do." The program recognizes the vital role grandparents play in the family unit and seeks to support them in their legacy of love, guidance, and cultural transmission.

Upcoming events on November 30th and December 19th will specifically address the needs of grandparents in the Black, Indigenous, and Latinx communities. These conversations will offer tools, skills, and connections to further nurture and support grandparents in their caregiving roles. Viewers are encouraged to watch the full interview for a deeper dive into this impactful program.

More Information:

Website: https://www.jsolstudios.com/anchoring-our-roots

Instagram @Anchoring_our_roots

Photo: Jordan Somers

Alana Bell: Empowering Black Students through the Becraft Scholars Program

Alana Bell, the founding director of the Becraft Scholars Program at the Fulcrum Foundation, recently joined The Day With Trae Show to discuss her inspiring work empowering Black students and families in Catholic schools.

The Becraft Scholars Program, a relationship-centered initiative, provides scholarships and comprehensive support to Black students, fostering a sense of belonging and academic success. Bell's passion for educational equity and her commitment to centering humanity in her work shone through during the interview.

She highlighted the program's emphasis on family engagement and the importance of creating a supportive community for students to thrive. Bell's vision for the Becraft Scholars Program extends beyond financial assistance; it's about creating a space where Black students feel seen, heard, and empowered to achieve their full potential. 

For more information visit: https://fulcrumfoundation.org/news/introducing-the-becraft-scholars-program/

Photographer: Susan Fried

Manny Santiago, the Chief of Equity and Community Partnerships at the Washington Health Benefit Exchange, is a passionate advocate for accessible and inclusive healthcare. In his interview with Trae Holiday, he sheds light on the critical role of the Health Plan Finder in empowering Washingtonians to make informed decisions about their health insurance.

Santiago emphasizes that the Health Plan Finder serves as a centralized platform where individuals and families can easily compare and choose health plans that align with their needs and budgets. He highlights the invaluable support provided by navigators and brokers, who assist individuals in navigating the complexities of the healthcare system and selecting the right coverage.

A core tenet of Santiago's work is his unwavering commitment to equity. He underscores the importance of ensuring that all Washingtonians, regardless of their background or immigration status, have access to quality healthcare. He discusses the availability of subsidies for undocumented residents, highlighting Washington's progressive stance in protecting its diverse communities.

Santiago's dedication to inclusivity is evident throughout the interview. He emphasizes the importance of language access, ensuring that resources and assistance are available in multiple languages to cater to Washington's diverse population.

Through his leadership and advocacy, Santiago is making a tangible difference in the lives of countless Washingtonians. He is a driving force in creating a more equitable and accessible healthcare landscape, where everyone has the opportunity to live a healthy and fulfilling life.

For more information visit: https://www.wahbexchange.org

#healthcare #equity #community #Washington #HealthPlanFinder #insurance #access #inclusion #leadership

Photographer: Susan Fried

Amanda Morgan, the groundbreaking first Black female lead soloist at Pacific Northwest Ballet, opened up about her inspiring journey during her interview with Trae Holiday.  She reflected on her recent debuts in iconic Balanchine roles, stating, "It was honestly unreal."  

Morgan's commitment to mentorship and mental health advocacy shines through. She emphasizes the importance of supporting dancers' well-being and fostering a positive environment. Her dedication extends to her pursuit of a bachelor's degree in Arts Management, showcasing her passion for both dance and the business side of the arts.  

As a choreographer and founder of the Seattle Project, Morgan is actively shaping the future of ballet. Her vision for inclusivity and artistic excellence is evident in her work. She's also looking forward to the upcoming Nutcracker season at PNB, inviting everyone to witness the "beautiful dancers and students of the organization."  

Join us in celebrating Amanda Morgan's remarkable achievements and her unwavering commitment to the arts. Her story is a shining example of the transformative impact of perseverance, passion, and mentorship. 

#AmandaMorgan #PNB #Ballet #ArtsManagement #Mentorship #MentalHealth #TDWT

“I experienced both sides, you know, I experienced sides. I've been in companies where there was a lot of diversity, and I've been in other companies where there was hardly any, and I was the token, if you will, you know, so it got a chance to kind of see both sides of it. I think what we do here at PMB, we call it PMB, for sure, is, is the best I've seen across the country.” - Ikolo Griffin

Ikolo Griffin is a passionate ballet instructor at Pacific Northwest Ballet (PNB) with a deep commitment to diversity and inclusion in the art form. He brings a wealth of experience from his professional dancing career with prestigious companies such as the San Francisco Ballet, Dance Theatre of Harlem, and Joffrey Ballet.

Ikolo's involvement in PNB's Dance Chance program showcases his dedication to making ballet accessible to underserved youth. His inspiring journey, expertise, and advocacy for inclusivity make him a valuable asset to the ballet community and a role model for aspiring dancers.

Menopause Mentor Danyale Thomas joined Trae Holiday on "The Day With Trae" for an eye-opening discussion about the often-overlooked financial implications of menopause. Danyale highlighted the startling statistic that "one in four women think about scaling back on their hours or leaving their job based on menopause symptoms." This can significantly impact their long-term financial security.

The conversation also delved into the out-of-pocket costs associated with managing menopause symptoms. As Danyale pointed out, "Women are averaging thousands of dollars that they're trying to manage what's happening to them." This financial burden, coupled with potential career disruptions, underscores the need for greater awareness and proactive planning.

Danyale offered valuable insights and strategies for navigating the financial challenges of menopause. To hear her empowering advice and learn more about this critical topic, be sure to watch the full interview! It's a conversation that could make a real difference in your financial well-being.

"It's joy, very simple. It's so much joy that comes within me, around community, our babies, our elders, all the people that celebrate." - Afua Kouyate

We had the pleasure of speaking with the incredible Afua Kouyate about the 40th anniversary of Odunde, a celebration of community, culture, and legacy. Afua's passion for bringing people together and creating spaces for joy is truly inspiring. In this interview, she shares the evolution of Odunde, the impact it has had on the Seattle community, and the exciting plans for this year's festival.

"We're going to celebrate by having... an African marketplace, we'll have, like, 1000s of African artifacts, clothing, musical instruments. We'll have food... DJ music... testimonials that will be a part of our documentary... and then... the concert, that's just going to be the... alpha and the omega." - Afua Kouyate.

Join us as we dive deeper into the heart of Odunde and the vision behind the African Cultural Arts Center (ACAC). Afua's dedication to preserving and celebrating African culture is a testament to the power of community and the importance of honoring our roots. Watch the full interview to learn more about this incredible event and how you can be a part of the celebration! #Odunde #Community #Legacy #AfricanCulture #Seattle

Dr. Traci Harrell, a passionate advocate for community empowerment, joins The David Trey Show to discuss her involvement with the Odunde Festival and the upcoming African Cultural Arts Center. Dr. Harrell emphasizes the importance of leaving a legacy of love and service, stating, "It is about us being able to show up, for each of us, to be able to leave a legacy, to be able to contribute in some way."

She highlights the visionary leadership of Ms. Alpha, who has dedicated 40 years to building deep roots in the community. Dr. Harrell expresses her enthusiasm for the future, stating, "I'm excited to say I'm a part of that next 40 years. I'm part of leaving a legacy, and this is definitely part of divine, divine guidance."

Dr. Harrell encourages everyone to get involved and support the African Cultural Arts Center, emphasizing the various opportunities available, including the building fund, the legacy wall, and the online ecosystem. She invites the community to join the journey and contribute to shaping the story for the next 40 years. As Dr. Harrell says, "We are all part of community, and so being able to contribute both your voice, to tell your story, to really be able to show up in community in a way that allows us to, again, leave a legacy...I think there's nothing more we can do than to really walk in our divine assignments."

"Drums represented the sound of freedom for our people," reflects Awodi, emphasizing the profound significance of drumming in his life and community. He recounts facing prejudice and misunderstanding, even from those within his community. "I remember sometimes, like, some teachers would ask us about some of our beliefs at home and everything...the moment I would, like, say something like, 'Hey, yeah, my family does African spirituality,' they'd be like, 'Oh, so you worship the devil.'"

Despite the challenges, Awodi's passion for drumming and his commitment to his heritage remained steadfast. Now, he's the Executive Director of the Hawk Foundation for Research and Education in African Culture, using drumming as a tool for healing and empowerment. "We're working with the Department of Health right now to actually implement African drumming as a health modality," he shares, highlighting his dedication to community well-being.

Don't miss this inspiring interview! Chief Awodi's story is a testament to the power of cultural identity, resilience, and the transformative power of music. Tune in to The Day With Trae for an insightful conversation that will leave you feeling empowered and connected to your own roots.

"We've got to be careful about where we're putting our money...Let's take care of our own, and let's begin to model a new way." - Bishop Gwendolyn Phillips Coates

These powerful words from Bishop Coates, shared during her recent interview with Trae Holiday, perfectly capture the spirit of the upcoming Christmas Marketplace and Soiree. This event isn't just about shopping; it's about community, empowerment, and celebrating Black artistry and entrepreneurship.

As Bishop Coates so eloquently explains, it's a chance for us to come together, support local businesses, and "model a new way" of investing in our community. It's an opportunity to enjoy live music from talented artists like Philip Sharp Skills Jacobs and Lucia Francine, savor delicious food, and connect with friends and family.

Join Bishop Coates on November 30th at Grace United Methodist Church from 10 am to 12 pm for the free marketplace, and consider staying for the lunch and concert with a small donation.

Intrigued by the intersection of art, activism, and social change? 🎭 Then you won't want to miss this insightful interview with the multi-talented Philip Jacobs.

Philip, a speaker, author, and now actor, shares his journey from childhood acting to his current role in "A Soldier's Play" with Act on Stage. He delves into the play's powerful exploration of racial dynamics and its resonance with contemporary struggles for equality.

But it doesn't stop there! Philip also discusses his impactful book, "Elephant in the Room," and the innovative board game he created to facilitate meaningful conversations about race.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and be inspired by Philip's work. Watch the full interview and make sure to catch "A Soldier's Play" at Act on Stage https://actsonstage.com/

#TheDayWithTrae - Actor Leon Huggins-Richards sat down with Trae Holiday on "The Day With Trae" to discuss his role in the upcoming production of "A Soldier's Play." Leon shared his personal connection to the play, his acting background, and the unique experience of working with an all-black cast.

He also opened up about the challenges of portraying a character with a complex personality and how he draws inspiration from his own family's military background. Leon's passion for the play and his dedication to his craft shine through in this insightful interview.

To learn more about Leon's journey and his thoughts on "A Soldier's Play," be sure to watch the full interview. And don't forget to get your tickets to see Leon and the rest of the talented cast bring this powerful story to life on stage. Visit https://actsonstage.com/ for tickets and show information.

"Each night is a singular moment, never to be replicated. It's ephemeral, vital, and incredibly fulfilling. That's why I'm so drawn to theater." - Austen Danielle Bohmer, the captivating Glinda in Wicked's Seattle run at the Paramount Theatre, shares her passion for the stage and the magic of live performance. ✨

In her interview on The Day With Trae with Trae Holiday, Austen opened up about her experience playing the iconic role. "Glinda undergoes a profound transformation," she explained. "Having explored various genres like musical theater, Shakespeare, and classical works, this role allows me to draw upon my diverse experiences and infuse them into Glinda's journey." 🎭

Austen's portrayal of Glinda has been praised for its emotional depth and undeniable chemistry with Elphaba, played by Lauren. "Their onstage connection is a symbiotic fusion of voices," Trae Holiday remarked. "Their impeccable harmonies are a defining highlight of the show." 🎶 Don't miss your chance to witness this extraordinary production! Get your tickets today at www.STGPresents.org and experience the magic of Wicked for yourself. #Wicked #Seattle #Theater #Musical #AustenDanielleBohmer #Glinda #TheDayWithTrae 🎟️

"This has been a bucket list role of mine since I very first saw the show in London's West End," says Lauren Samuels, the talented actress who plays Elphaba in the touring production of Wicked, now playing at Seattle’s Paramount Theatre through December 1st.  In her interview on The Day With Trae with Trae Holiday, Samuels shared her excitement about fulfilling a lifelong dream and the unique opportunity to explore the backstory of the Wicked Witch. "We get to see the Wicked Witch. Is she wicked? Is she good? You get to decide for yourself as an audience," Samuels explained.

Samuels also spoke about the strong female friendships depicted in Wicked, particularly the complex relationship between Elphaba and Glinda. "It is about female friendship, right?" Samuels remarked. "And I love this underlying message in Wicked."  She also shared her appreciation for the enthusiastic American audiences, noting their stark difference from the more reserved British audiences she's accustomed to. "The American audiences, I've got to say...they go wild," she exclaimed.

Samuels concluded by inviting everyone to come and see the show, emphasizing the power of theater to transport and inspire. "I hope that it just gives people a little bit of escapism as well," she said. "They can come to the theater. They can forget their lives, forget the outside world for a moment, enjoy the beautiful music, the costumes, the scenery, laugh, cry, just escape their reality for a moment." Don't miss your chance to see Lauren Samuels bring Elphaba to life in this unforgettable production. Tickets: www.STGPresents.com

Isaiah Ruffin, owner of the new Seattle pizza spot "Pizzas by Ruffin,"  sat down with guest host Deaunte Damper on The Day With Trae to discuss his journey from the military to the culinary world. Ruffin's passion for pizza shines through as he describes his unique approach to this classic dish, drawing inspiration from his travels and experiences.

"Pizza is something I really fell in love with because you can use it as a vessel to put on many cultures and many faces," Ruffin explains. He also shares his excitement about opening his restaurant in the Lake Union area, emphasizing the importance of community support and following your dreams. "No dream is too big," Ruffin advises aspiring entrepreneurs. "Start that day."

To learn more about Isaiah Ruffin's inspiring story and his delicious pizzas, be sure to watch the full interview! You can find Pizzas by Ruffin at 400 Fairview Market Hall, Suite 107, Monday through Friday, 11 am to 4 pm.

Fancy Vargas, the dynamic force behind Elevate PR Management, recently sat down with Deontay Damper on "The Day with Trey" to discuss her inspiring journey and upcoming events. Vargas, who found her calling in activism during the BLM movement, is passionate about uplifting and highlighting communities of color through her work.

As Vargas shared in the interview, "I think that when something is bothering any person in humanity, that it really should be bothering all of us. How can we be successful if any part of humanity is not successful?" This powerful sentiment drives her commitment to inclusivity and amplifying diverse voices.

Don't miss Vargas' upcoming events. From November 29th to December 24th, be sure to visit Cultivate the Collective Black Art Boutique, open Thursdays through Sundays from 4 pm to 8 pm at the Bellevue Art Museum Gift Shop. This unique boutique showcases the work of nearly 100 local artists and plays a vital role in building black economic mobility and stimulating the creative economy. To learn more about Vargas' work and the importance of supporting diverse communities, watch the full interview and follow Elevate PRM

Alexis Mercedes Rinck, candidate for Seattle City Council, appeared on "The Day with Trey" to discuss her campaign and platform. Rinck emphasized the need for comprehensive solutions to address the city's challenges, particularly in housing and public safety.

On the issue of housing, Rinck stated, "Housing and affordability broadly have been huge issues facing almost every community in the city." She highlighted the importance of equitable housing development and anti-displacement strategies, advocating for increased density and transit-oriented development. Rinck also underscored the connection between housing and public safety, stating, "Our communities are safest when we're healthy and housed."

When asked about her motivations for running for office, Rinck drew upon her experience in community organizing and human services, stating, "I bring this blend of someone who's done community organizing work, and then someone who's kind of worked in these systems and seen firsthand how they fail people oftentimes." She expressed her commitment to proactive community engagement and accountability, emphasizing the importance of building strong relationships with community partners.

Learn more about Alexis: https://www.alexisforseattle.com/

Josalyn Ford, Chief Advancement Officer at the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, joined guest host Deaunte Damper on The Day With Trae to discuss the Urban League's upcoming 23rd Annual Breakfast on November 22nd and the importance of community engagement.

"Representation also means that we have people who understand the work of the mission and can be our advocates," Ford emphasized, highlighting the Urban League's commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment within the community. She also spoke passionately about the need to move beyond tokenism in fundraising, stating, "I don't want any other family or any other individual who has been marginalized to ever experience the idea or even the concept of coming into a space and someone thinking they saved them."

The Urban League's Annual Breakfast, featuring a special guest appearance by Taraji P. Henson, promises to be an unforgettable event celebrating community, purpose, and care. You can click here for tickets: https://urbanleague.org/

Artist Justin Huertas joined guest host Deaunte Damper on "The Day with Trae" to discuss his artistic journey, the importance of representation in the arts, and his upcoming show, "Triple Fire Sign."

Reflecting on his career, Huertas shared, "It took me a long time to understand that  I can be the hero if I decide that I'm the hero." This realization led him to create works like "Lizard Boy," which showcase diverse stories and characters. He emphasized the importance of representation, stating, "I'm...able to show other people who feel that way, that...you are the hero of your story."

Huertas's latest project, "Triple Fire Sign," is a deeply personal concert featuring songs from his musicals and new, never-before-heard pieces. The show runs November 4th and 5th at the Erickson Off Broadway on Capitol Hill with Intiman Cabaret. To learn more about Justin's inspiring journey and his upcoming show click here: https://www.intiman.org/justin-huertas/

Owuor Arunga beautifully encapsulates the essence of community and mentorship in this interview. Reflecting on his own journey, he emphasizes the importance of giving back, stating, "The lifelong model for learning ends with giving back and sharing." It's a sentiment that resonates deeply, highlighting the cyclical nature of growth and the responsibility to nurture future generations.

His passion for music education shines through as he discusses the transformative power of providing a space for young musicians to explore their creativity and connect with like-minded individuals. "It's about how do we work as a group? How do we maximize our strengths to create something beautiful?" he asks, underscoring the collaborative spirit that lies at the heart of musical expression.

Owuor's words serve as a reminder that music is not just an art form but a powerful tool for connection and community building. By creating opportunities for young people to express themselves and learn from one another, he's not only shaping the next generation of musicians but also fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose.

Kibibi Monié believes that "in life, not just in one's career, it's important to teach others anything that you have learned." She was raised in a close-knit community where families knew and supported each other, which instilled in her a desire to share her knowledge and uplift others.

Kibibi has always been passionate about the arts, and she believes that they have the power to transform lives. She recalls being inspired by watching performers like Judy Garland on television, and she knew from a young age that she wanted to pursue a career in the arts. Kibibi's own experiences as an only child who spent hours "pretending and becoming something other than a little girl" helped her to understand the importance of imagination and creativity.

Kibibi's dedication to teaching and mentoring young people is evident in her work at the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute, where she offers drama classes that help students develop their confidence, creativity, and communication skills. She believes that "pretending prepares you for life," and she encourages her students to explore their imaginations and embrace their unique talents.

Today on The Day With Trae, Trae Holiday is joined by menopause mentor Danyale Thomas to discuss the challenges and symptoms of menopause. Thomas emphasized the importance of awareness and understanding, highlighting that menopause symptoms can occur between 35 and 55 and can significantly impact mental health and relationships.

"Black women in particular, experience menopause at a higher rate and with more extreme symptoms," Thomas noted. "We're also less likely to get help or be believed when we seek treatment."

Thomas and Holiday discussed the role of nutrition in managing menopause, with Thomas sharing details about an upcoming anti-inflammatory cooking class she's hosting. "We'll be talking about how to better care for ourselves through food," Thomas explained, "and how to cook in a way that addresses the ailments that show up during this time."

The conversation also touched on the extended lifespan of women today, with Thomas stressing the need for financial planning and health advocacy. "We need to make sure we're taking care of our health and our money so that we can live longer with vitality and joy," she said.

Throughout the interview, Thomas underscored the importance of community support and practical resources for navigating menopause. She encouraged listeners to join her Facebook group, Mainstreaming Menopause, for a safe space to discuss their experiences and connect with other women.

"It's so important to have these conversations and know that you're not alone," Thomas said. "We're all in this together."

Watch the full interview to learn more about the challenges and symptoms of menopause.