TBGU: Reclaiming Autonomy with Kiana Ledé

Summary

Therapy for Black Girls University: Reclaiming Autonomy with Kiana Ledé

Podcast: Therapy for Black Girls – iHeartPodcasts
Host: Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, Ph.D.
Guest: Kiana Ledé (singer, songwriter, actress)
Date: December 16, 2025

---

Episode Overview

In this deeply honest and heart-to-heart episode, singer, songwriter, and actress Kiana Ledé joins Dr. Joy Harden Bradford to discuss her personal journey with bipolar disorder, her ongoing process of self-discovery, and the work of reclaiming autonomy as a young Black woman in the public eye. Through candid stories, Kiana reflects on boundaries, vulnerability, therapy, and the often messy search for self-love and closure—recurring themes in her music and life. The conversation is rich with insights on healing, the stigma of mental health, and finding strength in community and self-compassion.

---

Key Themes & Discussion Points

1. Navigating Uncertainty and Self-Discovery

• The Ongoing Process of "Figuring It Out":
  • Kiana shares that, both personally and professionally, she’s learning as she goes. (“I'm figuring it out. I'm a human being just like everybody else.” - Kiana, 04:45)
  • She emphasizes that not having all the answers is normal—even as an artist in the public eye.
• The Reality of Growing Up Publicly:
  • Dr. Joy notes the challenge of coming of age with audiences watching.
  • Kiana speaks to the double pressure of self-judgment and outside criticism.

2. Fears, Judgment, and Healing

• Deep Fear of Judgment:
  • Kiana reveals her history with pageants and early industry experience, which ingrained a fear of judgment and imposter syndrome.
  • She admits: “I have major imposter syndrome... I just have this extreme fear of judgment” (06:49).
• The Role of Support Systems:
  • Kiana credits her partner and professional support for helping her feel less judged and more empowered.
  • Quote: “Being able to have a community that gives me grace is everything.” (06:00)

3. Cutting Ties: The Album and Its Meanings

• Letting Go and Setting Boundaries:
  • The title of her album, 'Cutting Ties', reflects her journey through the end of multiple relationships—friendships included.
  • Kiana discusses the difficulty but necessity of letting go for self-protection and growth.
  • Quote: “Long time friends aren’t forever friends, they don’t have to be. ...You don’t have to stay stuck in [toxic] relationships.” (08:05)
• Deluxe Album and Artistic Collaborations:
  • Kiana explains the new songs and featured artists, especially "Jury" as a song of transition into new emotional territory.
  • She notes the emotional trajectory within the album: from love, to mourning, to boundaries, and then resentment.

4. Resentment and Self-Forgiveness

• Navigating Aftermath of Boundaries:
  • Kiana addresses the resentment that sometimes follows boundary-setting: “I feel resentment come in after I put down the boundaries because I’m like, I gave you so many chances...” (09:44)
• Shame and Self-Compassion:
  • She opens up about the shame many Black and brown girls are taught to internalize.
  • Healing, for Kiana, comes from recognizing she did her best with the tools she had: “Giving myself grace, speaking to my therapist, and really connecting with my inner child...” (11:41)

5. Artistry, Vulnerability, and Mental Health

• Music as Self-Soothing:
  • Kiana describes music as a comfort with sadness, not a cure or escape.
  • Authenticity and vulnerability about trauma, including her mental health journey and experiences of sexual abuse, ground her music.
  • Quote: “Those are the things that make me feel the best. ...Being vulnerable and genuine is the thing that makes me feel like the music matters.” (12:46)
• The Challenge of Public Healing:
  • Dr. Joy and Kiana discuss the unique difficulty of working through pain while audiences witness the process.

6. Living and Creating with Bipolar Disorder

• Struggles and Fears:
  • Kiana shares how she takes things personally, and the unpredictability of her career amplifies triggers for her bipolar.
  • Medication initially scared her; she worried it would disrupt creativity. “I was really scared to get on medication because I was like, it’s gonna take away my creativity.” (19:10)
• Diagnosis and Acceptance:
  • Reluctant at first, Kiana accepted her bipolar diagnosis after conversations with Jennifer Lewis and her own Black female therapist.
  • The process of finding the right medication and support system was transformational.
  • Quote: “When things started to change and my brain wasn’t doing that [negative spiral], I was like, oh, my God, this is magic.” (21:33; 26:52)

7. Tools and Self-Care Practices

• Emergency Grounding Techniques:
  • Kiana uses somatic tools like cold water (icing) and tapping for anxiety and panic attacks.
  • She confesses she’s still learning to use her self-care tools consistently.

8. Reclaiming Autonomy and Values in the Industry

• Moral Boundaries and Professional Choices:
  • Kiana refuses to collaborate with people whose politics or treatment of marginalized communities don’t align with her values.
  • She prioritizes authenticity and a safe environment for her fans. “I go hard when it comes to things that are political, or things that seem political that should not be political, and refuse to compromise on that.” (28:10)

9. Fan Reactions and Community

• Unconditional Support:
  • Kiana expresses appreciation for fans who support her unconditionally, feeling understood and uplifted by their loyalty.
  • Quote: “I feel like I could put out a horrible song...and they love them no matter what.” (33:43)

10. Advice for Young Black Women & Artists

• On Autonomy and Saying No:
  • Kiana urges young women, especially women of color, to understand that “No” is not a bad word.
  • She encourages new artists to hold space for their autonomy and ideas even in intimidating, male-dominated settings.
  • Quote: “Your ideas are as important, Your autonomy is as important. ...No, it’s just a word. It’s not a bad word. You can say no.” (34:41-35:19)

11. Living with Bipolar: What She Wishes More People Knew

• Sensitivity is not Drama:
  • Kiana wants people to understand that those with bipolar aren’t just “too emotional or dramatic,” but extremely sensitive.
  • She discusses the stigma and her experiences with shame and misunderstanding.
  • Quote: “Us feeling things deeply is beautiful, but also...we’re not just being dramatic. There’s more going on.” (35:55)

12. Looking Ahead: Next Musical Era

• Exploring Darkness and Anger:
  • The next phase of her music will dive into “a darker and even angrier side”—using her love of horror and boxing as inspirations.
  • Quote: “I want people to really be able to see the true darkness and horror come out.” (37:32)

13. Honest Lyric Highlight

• Embracing Vulnerability in Love
  • Kiana shares how an honest lyric from “Cut Ties” reflects her anxious-avoidant tendencies in relationships—learning to accept affection and vulnerability from her partner despite discomfort.
  • Quote: “Excuse me while I get a little wholesome, I’m not used to this emotion.” (39:01)

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “I just learn as I get older. The older I get, the less I know.” – Kiana Ledé (04:45)
• “Long time friends aren't forever friends, they don’t have to be.” – Kiana Ledé (08:05)
• “My therapist says… I did the best I could with the tools I was given.” – Kiana Ledé (11:41)
• “I go hard when it comes to things that are political or things that seem political that should not be political, and refuse to compromise on that.” – Kiana Ledé (28:10)
• “No is not a bad word.” – Kiana Ledé (34:41)
• “We’re not just difficult or overly emotional or dramatic… Us feeling things deeply is beautiful, but also… we’re not just being dramatic. There’s more going on.” (35:55)
• “There’s a lot of anger I need to get out... I want people to really be able to see the true darkness and horror come out.” – Kiana Ledé (37:32)

---

Key Timestamps

• Self-discovery and public vulnerability: 04:45–06:43
• Fear of judgment, pageantry, and imposter syndrome: 06:49–07:29
• Letting go, setting boundaries, and album themes: 08:05–09:14
• Resentment, shame, and self-forgiveness: 09:44–11:41
• Art, sadness, authenticity: 12:46–14:04
• Living with bipolar, fears about medication: 19:10–21:33
• Diagnosis acceptance and therapy: 21:33–26:20
• Grounding practices: 26:52–27:49
• Uncompromising values in music/industry: 28:10–29:29
• Fans' reactions: 33:40–34:25
• Advice for young women of color: 34:41–35:46
• Bipolar stigma: 35:55–37:19
• New musical era and embracing anger: 37:32–38:42
• Favorite lyric and vulnerability in love: 39:01–40:27

---

Final Notes

This episode offers a rare, transparent look at the emotional life of an artist in real time—with candid discussion about mental health, boundaries, and identity. Kiana’s vulnerability shines as both a model for others and a testament to the lifelong journey of healing, autonomy, and artistic authenticity.

Transcript

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

Foreign. Hey y', all, thanks so much for joining me for another episode of Therapy for Black Girls University. We'll get right into our conversation after word from our sponsors.

[Kiana Ledé]

This is an I Heart podcast, Guaranteed.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

Human Ever been at the pharmacy counter and your mind goes blank when the pharmacist asks any questions? That's why you need to listen to beyond the Script from CVS Pharmacy and iHeartMedia starting January 14th. Hosted by Dr. Jake Goodman, each episode features real conversations with CVS pharmacists, the health experts you see most, breaking down the questions you wish you'd asked from which meds may not mix well to what vaccines you need before a big trip. They'll bust myths, decode trends and share practical advice you can actually use. Listen to beyond the script on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Today I wanted to share some thoughts about investing in your future while showing up for your present needs. Most of us play a lot of roles in life partner, employee, caregiver. But many of us also think about another role that could take our lives to where we want it to. Degree Holder that's where a national university comes in. They've been busy since 1971 creating more ways for you to work earning a degree into your busy life. NU confers more graduate degrees to diverse populations than any other institution in the country, with more than half being earned by women. With flexible online formats, four and eight week courses, monthly class starts and year round enrollment. NU is an accredited nonprofit university that makes higher education possible and achievable for busy working adults with over 150 different degrees, credentials and certificates to choose from. They have a program that fits your career goals too. Learn more today at nu.edu. living with an autoimmune condition isn't easy, and every journey is different. That's why Season five of Untold Life with a Severe Autoimmune Condition from Ruby Studio in Argenics shares powerful firsthand stories from people with conditions like MG and cidp. Hosted by Martine Hackett, these conversations dive into what resilience really looks like through setbacks, breakthroughs and finding strength in community. Listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. No one's journey is the same. That's why Delta SkyMiles moves with you from earning miles on reloads for coffee runs, shopping and things you do every day to connecting you to new experiences. A SkyMiles membership fits into your lifestyle, letting you do more of what makes you you it's more than travel you it's the membership that flies, dines, streams, rides and arrives with you. Because when you have a membership that's as unique as you are, there's no telling where your journey will take you next. Learn [e-mail] SkyMiles have you finished your holiday shopping?

[Kiana Ledé]

If your answer is no, don't panic. Just go to Macy's. They can take the stress out of last minute shopping. Not only can you save 30 to 60% on top gifts during the Great Gift Sale, but Macy's simplifies everything with curated selections organized by Persona, category and price. It's like a KitchenAid artisan stand mixer for the aspiring chef or Sam Edelman stud Ballerina flats for the fashion conscious. Easy Shop Macy's Great Gift Sale now through the 24th in store or online@macy's.com.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

For this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with singer, songwriter and actress Kiana Laday for a deeply honest and heartfelt conversation. We talked about her journey with bipolar disorder, how she's learned to navigate her diagnosis with compassion, and the ways therapy, boundaries and connection have supported her along the way. We also explored the emotional world of her deluxe album Cut the Ties and the themes of self, love, closure and transformation that run throughout the project. She opened up about the creative process behind her music, the tenderness required to tell the truth about her experiences, and what it means to heal while still being in the public eye. If something resonates with you while enjoying our conversation, please share it with us on social media using the hashtag tvginessession. Here's our conversation. Thank you so much for joining us today, Kiana. Of course.

[Kiana Ledé]

Thank you for having me. I'm so excited.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

Yeah, so I love to start by hearing you talk a little bit about what do you feel like is most important for people to understand about you both professionally and creatively at this moment in your life?

[Kiana Ledé]

I think the most important thing that people should know about me is that I'm figuring it out. I'm a human being just like everybody else. And one of the things that I learned and I know my mom has told me that she's learned and like everybody learns as they get older is that you don't know what you're doing and you think that all these people that are older than you have their shit together. I just learn as I get older. The older I get, the less I know. So that that bleeds into my professional life too because I am my profession so not to judge me too much please, because I am really trying to figure it out.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

Yeah. You know, I appreciate you saying that, because I think we're all figuring out, you're right, your mom is right, you're right, everybody's right. Like, we don't all know what we're doing. We're just going day by day trying to figure it out. But I think the interesting part of, you know, the work that you do in other artists is that you're figuring out. Figuring it out very publicly. Right. You just said, like, oh, don't judge me. So what kinds of things do you feel like help you to figure it out?

[Kiana Ledé]

I think the people that I surround myself with really helps. I have a partner that's really great, and my manager is amazing. I make sure to surround myself with people that I don't feel judged by and that have patience with me, I think, is the most important part. There's patience and there's understanding, because I am learning so much more about myself every single day. And it's been interesting realizations and struggles that I've uncovered over the last couple years. So being able to have a community that gives me grace is everything.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

Are there things in particular that you feel like people have been very judgy about as it relates to you?

[Kiana Ledé]

So I did a moshroom trip the other day, and I realized that I actually have this, like, deep fear of judgment, even if people aren't judging me. I grew up doing pageants, so I'm used, and I've been doing this since I was 14, so I'm used to the judgment and having people that are hypercritical. And I think I've taken that on as something that I am fearful of and things that I push on myself. So I have major imposter syndrome. And so I don't even necessarily think it's other people judging me. I think I just have this extreme fear of judgment that makes a lot.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

Of sense, but also what bravery to feel that and still put yourself out there the way that you do through your. Your artistry.

[Kiana Ledé]

Thank you. I feel like I have no choice. This is just who I am. So I hope people enjoy it. I hope it's at least entertaining at the very least.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

Right. At the very least. So the name of your latest project is Cutting Ties, which I think is a very powerful title. What do you feel like you were cutting ties with in either your personal or professional life that led to that title?

[Kiana Ledé]

I was letting go of a lot of relationships. Not just one, but a lot of relationships that were toxic and a part of my Life for eight years because I had so many changes in my environment and my mental health changed so much. I realized that long time friends aren't forever friends, they don't have to be. And relationships can get really sticky and you can feel super stuck in them, but you don't have to stay stuck in them. Yeah, I think as I was growing into myself, I grew more of a voice and that meant that I might have to cut ties with people. I'm a super loving and understanding, nonjudgmental, open person. But once somebody crosses that line, I'm very unforgiving. And I think I've had to learn whether the unforgiving is being unforgiving or just not forgetting. And what the boundary is of being able to give people chances but also know when it's time to stop.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

I feel like that's a conversation lots of people have been having around, you know, like, when is it time to let go of a friend? How do you know? And I hear you saying that, you know, you've had some difficult conversations and then at some point realize, okay, boundaries have been crossed and I have to choose myself in this case. Yeah, yeah. So what on the deluxe album, like, what did you feel like was left unsaid from the standard version of cutting ties to the deluxe version? What more were you able to say on the deluxe?

[Kiana Ledé]

Well, first, I mean, I'm just so happy with the people that came on to do the album. I love Queen, I love Chloe, I love bj. They're all great people. I try to just a big thing about me is I try to keep myself surrounded by really good, genuine people. And I loved having them on there because I loved working with them and they are amazing people. I think the last song that I have on there called Jury is a song that was supposed to be on the next project that we have already finished and it didn't quite make the cut and my manager was like, this has to go somewhere. Like we have to put it out. And it ended up being like the perfect transition song. I think you hear a lot of my morning almost like you see the love, you see the mourning, and then you see when I start to set boundaries. And I think now after the boundaries, I don't know about you, but I feel resentment come in after I put down the boundaries because I'm like, I gave you so many chances and I was so loyal and so genuine. I'm excited to show people more of the resentment feeling that they get from Jury. Going into the next project.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

I found that the Resentment is sometimes, you know, a lot of times related to other people. But there's also some, like, resentment for myself, like, when I have not honored myself. Right. Like, is that a part of the process as well?

[Kiana Ledé]

Yes, absolutely. I mean, I shame myself all the time. I think being a brown black girl, you know, dealing with mental health struggles my entire life, I've learned to shame myself really well. It's really hard to forgive yourself when you let people in and they let you down. For sure.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

Yeah. And what's the process of forgiving yourself then? Because that has to happen. So what has that process been like for you?

[Kiana Ledé]

I think the biggest part of the process is understanding that I did the best I could with the tools I was given. My therapist says that to me all the time. Giving myself grace, speaking to my therapist, and really connecting with my inner child and realizing, like, I was given all of these tools that are not necessarily always useful or helpful. And one of those is, like, being self aware, but sometimes being painfully self aware aware and knowing when it's time to, like, stop therapizing myself and let my therapist guide me through that.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

That's such a hazard. Right? Especially, I mean, you've talked very openly about your mental health journey, about your therapist, your experiences with multiple therapists. And so at some point you do have to realize, like, okay, I can just be a human. Like, everything is not like a self assessment and picking myself apart.

[Kiana Ledé]

Yeah, absolutely.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

Yeah. How do you feel like mixing your mental health journey with your creative journey? Like, how has that shown up in your work?

[Kiana Ledé]

I had this realization the other day when I was a kid growing up. It was a very toxic living situation, and I realized that I was just a really sad kid. I was dealing with depression. I remember, like, my first major depressive episode when I was like, 12. I realized that music was not the thing that made me happy. It's a thing that made me feel comfortable with being sad. And I've been taking that with me. You know, I go through different shifts in my journey and I go down different paths and I learn more about myself. So my music adjusts, but I think the thing that remains the same is my authenticity when it comes to the sad music. Those are the things that make me feel the best. They feel good when I'm performing them. It makes people cry, and it makes me cry. And then being super honest about my mental health, being honest about my sexual abuse, like, all these things are the only things that make me feel comfortable in music still. So, yeah, I think being super vulnerable and open and genuine is the thing that makes me feel like the music matters.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

More from our conversation after the break. Ever been at the pharmacy counter and the pharmacist asks do you have any questions? And suddenly your mind goes blank? That's exactly why you need to listen to beyond the Script from CVS Pharmacy and iHeartMedia starting January 14th. Hosted by Dr. Jay Goodman, this podcast brings you real conversations with CVS pharmacists, the health experts you see most answering the questions you wished you'd asked, like which medications might not mix well, what vaccines you should consider before a big trip, and even those questions you were too embarrassed to say out loud. Each episode busts myths, decodes health trends, and gives you practical, trustworthy advice straight from the people behind the counter. No white coats, no lectures. Just real talk, real answers, and maybe a few laughs. Listen to beyond the script on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Today I wanted to share some thoughts about investing in your future while showing up for your present needs. Most of us play a lot of roles in life partner, employee, caregiver. But many of us also think about another role that could take our life to where we want it to. Degree Holder that's where a national university comes in. They've been busy since 1971 creating more ways for you to work, earning a degree into your busy life. NU confers more graduate degrees to diverse populations than any other institution in the country, with more than half being earned by women with flexible online formats, four and eight week courses, monthly class starts, and year round enrollment. NU is an accredited nonprofit university that makes higher education possible and achievable for busy working adults with over 150 different degrees, credentials and certificates to choose from. They have a program that fits your career goals too. Learn more today at nu.edu. no one's journey is the same. That's why Delta SkyMiles lets you do it your way. From earning miles on reloads for coffee runs, shopping and things you do every day to connecting you to new places and experiences. A SkyMiles membership fits into your lifestyle, letting you do more of what makes you you. It's more than travel. It's the membership that flies, dines, streams, rides and arrives with you. Every great journey deserves a great story. And when you have a membership that's as unique as you are, there's no telling how your story will unfold or where that journey will take you next. Sky Miles is the membership that will be here for all your big and small moments the membership that's there for every solo adventure or family trip. The membership that comes with the power of partnership from brands you love. The membership that moves with you. Learn [e-mail] SkyMiles if you're tired of the tug, the heat and the hours it takes to blow dry your hair, I got you covered. Revair is a reverse air hair dryer that's changing the game for textured hair. It dries, stretches and smooths your hair all at once with way less heat, less damage and less time. Whether you're rocking coils, curls or kinks, Revair works with your texture, not against it. It's gentle, efficient and gives you that salon quality finish right at home. Imagine all the things you could get done in a day if you cut your styling time in half. With the holidays approaching, treat yourself or loved ones to healthier, shinier hair in a fraction of the time. Thousands of women are already loving the results and the time they are getting back in their day and right now Revair is offering their lowest price of the season so you can look your best at your holiday events. You can also become a member and earn points and rewards every time you shop. Visit myravaire.com today to shop their holiday sale. That's myraver.com your crown deserves it. This episode of Therapy for Black Girls is brought to you by Chase Sapphire Reserve. Whether you're booking your next trip or a weekend escape, Chase Sapphire Reserve is your gateway to the world's most captivating destinations. When I travel somewhere, I'm typically determined to try the best local pizza and find the best spa experience. With Chase Sapphire Reserve you have access to everything from private dinners hosted by award winning chefs to VIP treatment at the most sought after events. Chase Sapphire Reserve allows you to take advantage of one of a kind experiences while earning three times points on dining worldwide. No matter your destination, travel is more rewarding with Chase Sapphire Reserve. Discover more with Chase sapphire [e-mail] Sapphire Reserve cards issued by JP Morgan Chase Bank NA member FDIC subject to credit approval terms apply so what has it been like as an artist living with a bipolar disorder?

[Kiana Ledé]

I think the thing that I've struggled with the most is I take everything very personally and I think that's a huge trigger for my bipolar and I also don't have a lot of time where I can sit and check in with myself. Having basically zero time for so many years just working my ass off in a very inconsistent and unpredictable environment made me not take care of my mental health and not understand what was going on. But when I got on medication, I was really scared to get on medication because I was like, it's gonna take away my creativity. I think that's a huge struggle too. I think I was in denial for years about what was going on because I was like, I didn't. I don't want it to take away my drive. I don't want it to take away my creativity because a lot of the music that I wrote that I felt the best about came from sadness, but it ended up making the music better because I wasn't dealing with all these extra thoughts. I think the bipolar magnified even more my fear of judgment because I had a lot of really negative, down spiraling messages I was telling myself constantly. So hearing negative things and then telling myself negative things on top of that constantly became. And really tough. There were, of course, what I thought were great moments at the time when I felt like I was on top of the world in my career and I felt like I was on top of the world personally. You know, mania is a very real thing, and if. If you're bipolar, you understand. Mania feels amazing at the time, and then you realize that there's a huge crash and. And that was affecting my health a lot when I was having rough times in my career and rough times mentally. So, yeah, yeah, it's. I think the unpredictability in general and my fear of judgment were the hardest things to deal with for sure.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

I appreciate you sharing so honestly about your fears about taking medication, because I think it is a huge thing for people who are creative. Right? Like, how is this going to change my creativity? Am I going to be the same? What kinds of things helped you to confront that fear and to become okay with taking the medication?

[Kiana Ledé]

So I had a couple people tell me that I was bipolar for years, since I was 20. And then when I was 20, 23 or 24, there was a song I wrote about depression called Heavy. And I have Jennifer Lewis, who's really open about her mental health struggles on the song. I took a clip from a podcast that she did that my mom had sent me, and I asked to put it on a song and she asked to meet with me. So I went to her house and I was talking to her and I was just telling her what I was going through, and she was like, bitch, you're bipolar. And I was like, no, I'm not. She was like, yes, you are, and she's also bipolar. And she was like, yes, you are. She told me to read her book and call her as soon as I'm finished, and that she's not going to reach out to me because I'm not going to change until I'm ready. I'm not going to look for help until I'm ready. And I hadn't had a therapist yet that I trusted and I didn't call her, so I was in denial for sure. And I had another therapist before that was white, and I felt like she didn't really understand family dynamics, so she couldn't really understand me, and she didn't understand my experience. And then a couple years later, I ended up being referred to a black female therapist. And that changed everything. The way that she approached things was also very different. Like, she asked me, what would you do if I told you you were bipolar? And I think at that point, I was so low and being told by somebody I felt super comfortable with and I trusted, my mind started to open up a little more, and I just said, I think I just laughed. Like, anytime she tells me something, I just laugh because I don't know how to respond to it. It's like my uncomfortable, you know, nervous, anxious response, I guess. And when I accepted the diagnosis, she kind of was, like, trying to help me figure out how to manage things without medication. But I think at some point, I was just so desperate to feel better. And she helped me get into this mindset of, like, am I going to live like this forever, or would I rather just try something because I have nothing to lose? And that put me into a very vulnerable space that I was really scared to be in, but also opened my mind. And she referred me to a psychiatrist. And then I had my first conversation. It felt like I was breaking the seal. Like, I was just like, all right, let's try it. Let's see what happens. And I know I can get off of it if I need to, but I might as well just try something, because there are no other options at this point. I mean, they're going to just live like this forever or try to change something in some way. So, yeah, then I tried the first medication, and I had to realize also that it was going to take a couple of tries. Just like a therapist, you have to find the one that fits. And took me a while, but I'm finally on something on a couple. A few different pills that make me feel comfortable and, like, I can live my life day to day. And it was so magical. It really felt like magic. Like, I had lived my whole life having these negative voices in my head, things I was telling myself. And I would look At. It's hard to explain to people that don't have bipolar. I would look at a tree, and I would be like, wow, that tree's so beautiful. Oh, the leaves are falling off. Oh, it's fall. Oh, my God, I'm gonna die. Like, it spiraled so fast. And that was my whole life. I lived my whole life like that. So when things started to change and my brain wasn't doing that, I was like, oh, my God, this is magic. And it just made me want to keep searching for answers and. Yeah. And find different tools and ways that my. My brain could live a healthier life. And I'm so grateful I did that. So just breaking that seal and finding somebody that is. That you're comfortable with talking to and that you respect getting that advice from.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

Yeah. I'm really glad that you found a treatment plan that has been working for you, because I know that that can be rough. Right. When you're trying lots of different medications, trying different things, and you finally find the thing that works for you. Great. So I know one of the things that is also really important for people who live with bipolar disorders is to have practices in terms of, like, staying grounded, sleep hygiene, like, all of these things that kind of help you to kind of stay structured. What kinds of practices have you incorporated into your routine that helps to support your mental health?

[Kiana Ledé]

I definitely don't do enough. I know that there's more and more I could do. You know what's really difficult is being in the moment and remembering the tools that you have. When you've lived your life for so long just trying to survive and be a warrior, it's really hard to remember the things that will help you. And I think the biggest thing. When I've had really bad panic attacks, one of the coolest things and the biggest thing that's helped me is putting my hands or my face in a bowl of ice. That's super helpful. Just shocking your nervous system and making you calm down. Another thing is the tapping. I love tapping. It is really calming. You don't even realize it's working until you're already calmed down. Since I'm not the best at using the tools all the time, those are great emergency tools that I use for when I'm not in the best space. But I know I can be better, for sure.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

I mean, we all can. We all can, right? Like, there's always other things we can be doing, but I appreciate you sharing those. So what kind of things have you refused to compromise on in terms of growing as an artist.

[Kiana Ledé]

I refuse to compromise on my morals. I have not worked with people. Damn. I've gotten in trouble before publicly for saying things like this, but I have not worked with people that I don't agree with their politics or I don't agree with how they treated women, Black women, women of color, LGBTQIA community. I go hard when it comes to things that are political or things that seem political that should not be political, and refuse to compromise on that. I think there are a lot of people that I could work with that would help my career, but I just refuse to invite them into my space. Like that's cool. Whatever they're doing, they're doing. But my audience comes to this space, this music space that I've created and my team have created where they feel comfortable, they can be vulnerable and be their authentic selves. I never want people that are listening to my music to feel like they don't belong. So those people just don't belong in my space and I refuse to compromise on them.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

More from our conversation after the break Ever been at the pharmacy counter and the pharmacist asks, do you have any questions? And suddenly your mind goes blank? That's exactly why you need to listen to beyond the Script from CVS Pharmacy and iHeartMedia starting January 14th. Hosted by Dr. Jay Goodman, this podcast brings you real conversations with CVS pharmacists, the health experts you see most answering the questions you wished you'd asked, like which medications might not mix well, what vaccines you should consider before a big trip, and even those questions you were too embarrassed to say out loud. Each episode busts myths, decodes health trends, and gives you practical, trustworthy advice straight from the people behind the counter. No white coats, no lectures. Just real talk, real answers, and maybe a few laughs. Listen to beyond the script on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Many of us play lots of different roles in life partner, employee, caregiver. And many of us also think about another role that could take our life where we want it to be. Degree holder. That's where National University comes in. They've been busy since 1971 creating more ways for you to work, earning a degree into your hectic life. NU confers more graduate degrees to diverse populations than any other institution in the country, with more than half being earned by women with flexible online formats, NU makes higher education possible and achievable for busy working adults. Learn more today at nu.edu. no one's journey is the same. That's why Delta SkyMiles lets you do it your way. From earning miles on reloads for coffee runs, shopping and things you do every day to connecting you to new places and experiences, a SkyMiles membership fits into your lifestyle, letting you do more of what makes you you. It's more than travel. It's the membership that flies, dines, streams, rides and arrives with you. Every great journey deserves a great story, and when you have a membership that's as unique as you are, there's no telling how your story will unfold or where that journey will take you next. SkyMiles is the membership that will be here for all your big and small moments. The membership that's there for every solo adventure or family trip. The membership that comes with the power of partnership from brands you love. The membership that moves with you. Learn [e-mail] SkyMiles if you're tired of the tug, the heat and the hours it takes to blow dry, I got you covered. Revair is a reverse air hair dryer that's changing the game for textured hair. It dries, stretches and smooths your hair all at once with way less heat, less damage and less time. Revair will be your new best friend and right now Revair is offering their lowest price of the season. So treat yourself to healthy hair and get more time back in your day. Visit myraver.com today to shop their holiday sale. That's myraver.com your crown deserves it. This episode of Therapy for Black Girls is brought to you by Chase Sapphire Reserve. Whether you're booking your next trip or a weekend escape, Chase Sapphire Reserve is your gateway to the world's most captivating destinations. When I travel somewhere, I'm typically determined to try the best local pizza and find the best spa experience. With Chase Sapphire Reserve you have access to everything from private dinners hosted by award winning chefs to VIP treatment at the most sought after events. Chase Sapphire Reserve allows you to take advantage of one of a kind experiences while earning three times points on dining worldwide. No matter your destination, travel is more rewarding with Chase Sapphire Reserve. Discover more with Chase sapphire [e-mail] Sapphire Reserve cards issued by JP Morgan Chase Bank NA member FDIC subject to credit approval terms apply. Has anything surprised you about the way that your fans have reacted to your most recent work?

[Kiana Ledé]

You know what?

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

No.

[Kiana Ledé]

They support me no matter what and I'm so grateful for them. I feel like I could put out horrible song. I mean I have put out some horrible songs in my opinion and they love them no matter what. So yeah, I feel like, they always find a reason why things make sense for them to listen to any song I put out, and it makes them feel heard in some way. So, yeah, I'm not surprised at all. I think some of the songs that they cling on to the most, maybe I'm surprised about, but I'm not surprised that they. They love it because they always have my back. So it's really sweet of them. I love them so much.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

I love that. I love that. So what advice would you have for other young women of color who maybe are coming up in the entertainment industry, wanting to maintain their sense of autonomy and, you know, kind of stick to their values in terms of what's important to them?

[Kiana Ledé]

The best advice I can give, and I always give this, but it doesn't matter, because no matter how many people it reaches or how many people hear it or how many times they needed to hear it, it matters. No is not a bad word. I grew up thinking that everybody else in the room is smarter than me, has better ideas than me, and that put me in some really vulnerable spaces. And I always felt like because everybody else is smarter than me or knows more than me, me saying no or having an opinion is bad.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

It feels.

[Kiana Ledé]

Felt like the worst thing I could possibly do, especially being a younger person in all of these rooms and a lot of times with grown men. So, yeah, I would say your ideas are as important, Your autonomy is as important. Your mental health is as important as anybody else's in the room. No, it's just a word. It's not a bad word. You can say no.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

What do you feel like? Is one thing you want more people to know about what it means to live with a bipolar disorder.

[Kiana Ledé]

That we're not just difficult or overly emotional or dramatic. I've lived my life being a very sensitive person and an empathetic person. And I think sometimes how deeply I feel things has been maybe misconstrued as me being dramatic. And then it also caused me at times to shut down and not share my thoughts or feelings. And then, you know, I would be spiraling and having all these negative thoughts to myself and not know how to escape it because of, I guess, the shame that I felt to. To be feeling things so deeply or being labeled dramatic. So, yeah, I would just say being. Being more understanding and realizing that a lot of people with bipolar do feel things deeply, which is a blessing. But, you know, it's also something that we struggle with, and it's not just something to be, like, joked about or judged. So, yeah, I would Say us feeling things deeply is beautiful, but also. But we're not just being dramatic. There's more going on.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

So what do you feel like your fans in the greater community can expect from you? You've already taken us on these depths of vulnerability with Cutting Ties. Where can we expect you to take us next?

[Kiana Ledé]

There's a lot of anger I need to get out. A lot of my music is like, really telling people off. But I think there's a even darker side to me. Like, I love boxing because I feel like it's one of the outlets I have that allows me to just like, some shit up, you know, Like, I'm allowing that to come into my music. I fell out of love with music for a while, and I think a way to find myself back into loving music was bringing this dark side and this love I have for, like, horror and creepy things. And I was able to inject that a little bit into Cut Ties. But this next era, I want people to really be able to see the true darkness and horror come out. So that's probably the most information I'm given about this next era.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

But.

[Kiana Ledé]

But, yeah, I can't wait to show people a darker and even angrier side that I just need to let out the music so I don't do it in real life.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

Thank you. We definitely want you to keep it on the music. So one last question. What's a lyric from Cut Ties that you feel like is the most honest version of you? Oh.

[Kiana Ledé]

Excuse me. While I get a little wholesome, I'm not used to this emotion. Whenever I've been in, like, vulnerable and like, lovey sweet situations, I make things very difficult and I try to make it easier for the other person to run. And if they don't, I run because I'm a very anxious, avoidant, attachment person. So, yeah, feeling nice emotions is like something that makes me want to throw up. But I tried to embrace it a little bit more. My partner is like the kindest person and is always willing to give more and more. And yeah, I couldn't ask for a better partner. And when we first started talking, I was like, he was just being so nice. And Acts of Service is his first love language. And I was just like, I'm so scared that you're love bombing me right now. And I was just open about it. Like, I was like, you, I'm scared that you're love bombing me.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

And.

[Kiana Ledé]

And he was like, I understand that. And I think part of that was my guard up of being like, I can't be emotional. I can't be vulnerable. I don't want to let this person in, but the more I let him in, the more I fell in love and realized that he loved me genuinely too and wasn't trying to use me a lip on me. So yeah, I think. I think there's a funny part to that and also a very deep part. So yeah, I would say that Lyrics.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

Yeah, that's a good one. Well, thank you so much for spending some time with us today, Kiana. Please let us know where can we stay connected with you. What is your website as well as any social media channels you'd like to share?

[Kiana Ledé]

Yeah, everything is at Kiana the day K I A N A L E D E and then kiana laday.com I think is my website. If not you could find it on Instagram.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

Perfect. We'll be sure to include that in our show notes. Thank you so much. Great.

[Kiana Ledé]

Thank you.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

I'm so glad Kiana was able to join me for this conversation. To learn more about her and her work, be sure to visit the show notes at therapy for black girls.com tvgu and don't forget to text this episode to two of your girls right now and tell them to check it out. If you're looking for a therapist in your area, visit our therapist [e-mail] directory don't forget to follow us on Instagram at Therapy for Black Girls and come on over and join us in our Patreon for exclusive updates, behind the scenes content and much more. You can join us at community.therapy for black girls.com this episode was produced by Elise Ellis Indechuwu and Tyree Rush. Editing was done by Dennison Bradford. Thank y' all so much for joining me again for this special TVGU episode. I look forward to continuing this conversation with you all real soon. Take good care Ever been at the pharmacy counter and your mind goes blank when the pharmacist asks any questions? That's why you need to listen to beyond the Script from CVS Pharmacy and I heart Media starting January 14th. Hosted by Dr. Jake Goodman, each episode features real conversations with CVS pharmacists, the health experts you see most, breaking down the questions you wish you'd asked from which meds may not mix well to what vaccines you need before a big trip. They'll bust myths, decode trends, and share practical advice you can actually use. Listen to beyond the script on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Many of us play lots of different roles in life partner, employee, caregiver. And many of us also think about another role that could take our life where we want it to be. Degree holder. That's where National University comes in. They've been busy since 1971 creating more ways for you to work earning a degree into your hectic life. NU confers more graduate degrees to diverse populations than any other institution in the country, with more than half being earned by women. With flexible online formats, NU makes higher education possible and achievable for busy working adults. Learn more today at nu.edu. if you're tired of the tug, the heat and the hours it takes to blow dry your hair, I got you covered. Revair is a reverse air hair dryer that's changing the game for textured hair. It dries, stretches and smooths your hair all at once with way less heat, less damage and less time. Whether you're rocking coils, curls or kinks, Revair works with your texture, not against it. It's gentle, efficient and gives you that salon quality finish right at home. Imagine all the things you could get done in a day if you cut your styling time in half. With the holidays approaching, treat yourself or loved ones to healthier, shinier hair in a fraction of the time. Thousands of women are already loving the results and the time they are getting back in their day. And right now Revair is offering their lowest price of the season so you can look your best at your holiday events. You can also become a member and earn points and rewards every time you shop. Visit myravaire.com today to shop their holiday sale. That's myraver.com your crown deserves it.

[Kiana Ledé]

10 athletes will face the toughest job interview in fitness that will push past physical and mental breaking points. You are the fittest of the fit. Only one of you will leave here with an IFIT contract for $250,000.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

This is where mindset comes in. Someone will be eliminated.

[Kiana Ledé]

Pressure is coming down. Trainer Games on Prime Video January 8th Watch the trailer on trainer games.com this.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

Is Julian Edelman from Dudes on Dudes.

[Kiana Ledé]

With Gronk and Jewels. Sunday mornings I've got my game day.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

Ritual coffee, Lucky socks and now new morning Uncrustable Sandwiches.

[Kiana Ledé]

It's all about that 12 gram protein boost with the new Uncrustables Bright Eyed Berry or Up and Apple flavors. Bright Eye Berries got a feisty receiver Energy up and Apple, your classic do it all tight end, soft, pillowy, packed.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

With protein and easy enough for Gronk.

[Kiana Ledé]

To grab from the freezer Whether you're on the couch, driving to the tailgate or heading to the locker room, New Morning Uncrustable Sandwiches are the MVP of snacks.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

Your new Sunday kickoff ritual starts here with New Morning Uncrustable sandwiches. Packed with 12 grams of protein, this.

[Kiana Ledé]

Is an I heart podcast. Guaranteed human.