Episodes

The Wise Black Nanas never tire of sharing their stories. With the help of special guest interviewer Michele Caron, founder of MyLifeCoach.com, Dr. Sharla opens up even more about the events that have shaped her life and what may lie ahead. Some paths are chosen. Others are created by circumstance. In this deeply personal conversation, Dr. Sharla reflects on difficult times at work and at home, the ups and downs of life, disappointments and triumphs, illness and loss, joy and inspiration. Whe...

Juneteenth 2026 is shaping up to be a memorable one, with exciting developments that reflect just how far the celebration and recognition of this important day have come. Before you make your plans for this year’s observance, join the Nanas for a brief look at what’s happening in 2026 and why there is so much to celebrate. Then, revisit one of our most popular and enduring Juneteenth features as we explore the history, significance, and spirit of Juneteenth. Travel through generations of resilie...

In this episode, the Wise Black Nanas dive into the idea that risk isn’t just about big, dramatic life decisions, it’s woven into our everyday choices, relationships, and growth. Whether we realize it or not, we’re constantly navigating uncertainty, weighing outcomes, and deciding what feels worth it. As life coaches, Joanne and Dr. Sharla bring their lived experience, insight, and no-nonsense wisdom to the conversation. They explore how different people approach risk, what holds us back, and h...

When a Wise Black Nana is a Wise Black Brother. In this inspirational episode, the Nana’s continue their series “Where are the Good People?” They welcome a very special guest: Joanne’s real-life brother. A retired U.S. Marine and Vietnam-era veteran, beloved brother, husband, father, grandfather, and lifelong friend to his sister. He is also known for cooking some serious Southern cuisine, and Dr. Sharla has also been fortunate enough to be on the guest list for dinner at his house! It is a hea...

Wise Black Nanas talk “Just For Fun”, reflecting on past and present memories. Just when you think you know the Nanas, Sharla and Joanne share more of their experiences that makes them laugh out loud. What makes you laugh? What fun memories do you hold? Listen in and laugh along with Wise Black Nanas.

Wise Black Nanas welcomes Dr. Frances Christine Robinson, founder of A Prayer And Fasting Ministry, longtime friend of Dr. Sharla, and a cherished friend of the podcast. Dr. Robinson is a righteous, everyday Black woman who truly walks the talk of her faith, nurturing lifelong friendships and showing up for her community through teaching, ministering, counseling, and volunteer service. What keeps her grounded and moving forward? How has her “PK” experience shaped who she is today? And what matt...

In this heartfelt episode, the Nanas revisit a cultural celebration that once echoed strongly through their communities—and one they’re ready to bring forward with intention. Kwanzaa may not be as widely observed as they remember, but its wisdom, values, and grounding feel more important than ever. Joanne and Dr. Sharla walk through the seven principles of Kwanzaa, sharing reflections on each day and why these ideas matter so deeply right now. From unity to purpose to collective work and respon...

The Wise Black Nanas are shining a light on friends and friendships, exploring what they mean, how they shape us, and why they matter. What makes a good friend? How do you know who is truly there for you? In this heartfelt episode, Dr. Sharla opens up about one of the most private and painful times in her life and how her friends helped her through it. Join the Nanas as they share stories, laughter, and lessons on finding, keeping, and being great friends at any age and at any stage of life. ...

How often do we consciously or unconsciously utter “I’ll do it later, tomorrow, next week, next life?”. In this Episode, Wise Black Nanas take a closer look at this everyday action, or inaction. Is procrastination a real thing? What is procrastination and what keeps us from “doing it now?” Why do we procrastinate, at home at work, in all interactions and aspects of our lives? Can you guess which Nana is an admitted procrastinator? The Nanas suggest ways that we turn procrastination around. Or ma...

In this powerful and revealing episode, the Nanas go deep on what it really means to love someone enough to be tough. With their trademark honesty, wisdom, and unfiltered truth-telling, they explore the many faces of Tough Love—when it’s necessary, how it can be misunderstood, and why it’s often one of the hardest but most loving places to stand. They open up about personal experiences, the emotional weight of holding boundaries, and the internal struggle of showing up with fierce love when sof...

In this short but heartfelt message, the Wise Black Nanas take a moment to honor Juneteenth, a day of reflection, celebration, and continued commitment to freedom and justice. Dr. Sharla shares a personal memory of seeing Opal Lee, the “Grandmother of Juneteenth,” speak in Las Vegas. Her inspirational presence was a powerful example of the impact one person can have in changing a nation’s story. Looking for a deeper dive into the history and meaning behind Juneteenth? The Nanas invite you to r...

Wise Black Nanas take a look at this common, everyday casual phrase that most of us know well, or do we? How often do you say “How You Doing”? What’s going on when you use the phrase? How are you feeling about the other person who asked you? Probably not something you have considered lately. As usual the Nanas have their own thoughts and experiences with this phrase, and can’t wait to share them with you.

Wise Black Nanas takes a light hearted look at looking back to past times, a slice of their past life, a few of their favorite memories from the Good Ole Days. Joanne and Dr Sharla think a little humor is just the ticket for our current time. When things seem negative, Wise Black Nanas look for the positive. Hear what they think is great and not so great about looking back and how might looking back help us today?

Wise Black Nanas take a look at Robbers of Joy. Just what is that anyway? In their own unique way, Joanne and Dr Sharla talk about the things that Rob us of Joy, whether it is family, work, or life situations, there are ways to recognize and restore that Joy. Listen in as they leave you with hope, optimism and strategies that are simple and lighthearted. And of course with a few laughs along the way.

What happens when cancer is the diagnosis? How does this affect Wise Black Nanas? Listen in to hear about this intensely personal account describing how Joanne reacts when she hears those words, directed at her. How does it impact her life? What does she think was most helpful to her, how does she navigate through it? What are her thoughts, how is she doing now, what words of experience and advice does she share? Listen in as Wise Black Nanas talk about keeping this chapter together or maybe not...

Wise Black Nanas celebrates a whole year of Podcasts. And WOW, what a year the Nanas have had! Dr. Sharla and Joanne share more of their stories, wisdom, strategies and tips to help with some of Life’s Toughest Decisions. This Guide is our gift to you. The guide is an easy to use, true labor of love that is packed with coaching tips, things to do right now, and a whole new set of “Nanaisms” that we hope you will enjoy. Tune in! Get your own copy of the Nanas’ Guide to Life’s Toughest Decisions a...

Wise Black Nanas are shining the light on one of their favorite literary s/heroes, Dr. Maya Angelou. Powerful and positive in her approach to the realities of life, Dr. Maya has been an inspiration and motivational source for decades. Discovered by both Nanas early in life, they talk about how her award winning work and inspiring being has been a constant in their work and lives. Dr. Sharla shares an intense and raw story that illustrates the connection with one of Dr. Angelou’s most well known ...

It’s our 20th episode! Join us as we celebrate this milestone and reflect on the journey so far. As we enter the holiday season—a time filled with celebrations, cherished memories, and joyful gatherings—the Wise Black Nanas remind us that this season can also bring stress, grief, and mixed emotions. For many, the holidays bring up memories of loss, challenges from COVID, political tensions, and past experiences that linger. In this special episode, the Nanas share their fondest holiday memories...

“Make Your Mark” can mean a host of things. It’s an old saying and even older practice. What does it really mean in today’s world? Hear Wise Black Nanas talk about Making Your Mark while taking a closer look and relating the phrase to current times. Joanne opens up more about growing up in the segregated South when “Making Your Mark” was a necessity and a common practice for many people. Wise Black Nanas share loving memories of elderly relatives during a very different time, or is it? How will ...

It’s political season. Wise Black Nanas could not miss the opportunity to share their thoughts on our political climate. Wise Black Nanas remind us of the historical significance of Civil Rights and Voting Rights efforts over the years, the connections and messages that still ring true today. What was it like to attend a newly integrated school as a teenager? Listen as Dr. Sharla shares remembrances of that period. Their passion shines through on this relevant episode. Get connected to your desi...

The Nanas are back after a brief break, back amid their own challenges, Dr Sharla is getting stronger each day, all while the country is greatly polarized in the political arena. The Nanas have a lively discussion about how they will move forward, the hard tough conversations, life and family roles, everyday issues, and most critically their labor of love, Wise Black Nanas.

What’s your purpose? Ever felt that others around you seem to know their calling? Their reason for being here? Perhaps you are not as sure? Well, Wise Black Nanas shed more light on this easy, and yet complex concept. During the conversation Dr. Sharla is especially engaging and frank about the influence of her background. Joanne and Sharla discuss “being” and “doing”…key as it relates to discovering our purpose, our reason for being here. Wise Black Nanas think it’s never too late to discover y...

Wise Black Nanas welcome Dr. Sharla back from her period of recuperation! With grace and gratitude, Dr. Sharla discusses some of her experiences, what got her through, and what she learned about resilience along the way. Wise Black Nanas talk about key issues, documents, family roles as only they can. In hindsight, what situations caused Dr. Sharla to re-look at plans she thought were in place, and sufficient. Were they? Learn, be encouraged, be inspired, just in case you need a resilience check...

Joanne explores the concept of gratitude in that Wise Black Nanas style we love – personal, fascinating, moving and inspiring. This is not your standard treatise on the importance of gratitude. Engaging, revealing and powerful, you will reflect not only on what you can be grateful for, but how you can fully embrace the life you are living.