Podcast
Wise Black Nanas
Hosted by Sharla M. Walker and Joanne Early · EN
Sharing intensely personal and professional stories from life experiences, these every day mature Black Women give it to you straight, with compassion, sometimes with candor, always with caring and gentleness, just like your Nana. Wise Black Nanas uses their unique place in life to encourage, open and start conversations about difficult topics and life events.
11episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Taking Risks – Try Coaching
Apr 2700:49:05Tap to summarizeIn 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 how we can move forward with more clarity and confidence. Along the way, Dr. Sharla shares a simple, practical concept she uses with clients to help make risk-taking feel more manageable and grounded. As well, she reveals some huge personal risks she took…find out if they were worth it! If you’ve ever found yourself hesitating, overthinking, or wondering whether to take that next step, this episode offers both perspective and encouragement to help you move forward.
Transcribe →Where Are the Good People? Wise Black Brother
Mar 1501:24:53Tap to summarizeWhen 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 heartfelt conversation about resilience, perspective, and the wisdom that comes from lived experience. If you still sometimes wonder “Where the Good People Are”, this episode gives you a chance to spend time with one. Listening to his stories is a reminder that wisdom, strength, and goodness are still very much alive in the world.
Transcribe →Just For Fun
Feb 1500:38:38Tap to summarizeWise 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.
Transcribe →Where Are the Good People? Here’s One
Jan 1500:49:41Tap to summarizeWise 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 matters most to her now? This conversation is rooted in wisdom, faith, service, and the quiet strength it takes to live your values out loud. To experience more of Dr. Robinson’s inspiration, call in live to join her service at A Prayer And Fasting Ministry, Sundays at 5 pm Eastern/4 pm Central/3 pm Mountain/2 pm Pacific. Call 1-848-220-3100, passcode 031825# . Email aprayerandfastingministry@gmail.com for more information!
Transcribe →Kwanzaa – Now More Than Ever
Dec 100:38:13Tap to summarizeIn 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 responsibility, they explore how Kwanzaa can strengthen our families, our sense of identity, and our connection to one another. Whether you’ve celebrated Kwanzaa before or you’re curious about bringing it into your home for the first time, this episode is a warm invitation to reconnect with heritage, intention, and community—especially in these times. Tune in for culture, clarity, and a whole lot of Nana love.
Transcribe →Friends – The Real Deal
Nov 100:48:56Tap to summarizeThe 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. It is never too late to build deeper, more meaningful connections.
Transcribe →Procrastination – “I’ll Do It Later?”
Oct 100:39:15Tap to summarizeHow 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 maybe we’ll do it later… Thank-you for listening! You can support the Nanas at https://wiseblacknanas.com/support
Transcribe →Tough Love
Sep 100:29:47Tap to summarizeIn 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 softness just won’t serve. If you’ve ever had to make a hard call for the sake of someone you care about—or if you’re on the receiving end of someone else’s truth—this episode will give you clarity, validation, and courage.
Transcribe →A Juneteenth Message from the Nanas
Jun 1900:05:03Tap to summarizeIn 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 revisit Episode 13 – Juneteenth: Did You Know?, where they explore the history and enduring significance of this important day.
Transcribe →How You Doing?
Jun 100:25:03Tap to summarizeWise 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.
Transcribe →