Shine Brighter Together

Latest Episodes:

Why I Went On A Shopping Freeze & What I Learned Jun 21, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Monique reflects on her experience doing a shopping freeze, which began around December 22, 2023. She shares the motivation behind this decision, influenced by Christine Platt's book 'The Afro Minimalist Guide to Living With Less.' Monique discusses the emotional and psychological insights gained from this experience, including issues related to money, shopping habits, and personal growth. This is a truly informative show to listen to.

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IG: @moemotivate; @shinebrightertogether

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Healing Intergenerational Trauma with Dr. Mariel Bouquet Jun 20, 2025

Show notes

In this insightful episode of the Shine Bright Up Together podcast, the host engages in a profound conversation with Dr. Mariel Bouquet, a trauma psychologist and expert on intergenerational trauma.

The discussion covers the importance of reconnecting with one's heritage, the resilience and courage of ancestors, and the healing power of acknowledging and addressing intergenerational trauma. Dr. Bouquet also introduces her book, 'Break the Cycle: A Guide to Healing Intergenerational Trauma,' which provides comprehensive tools for mental, physical, spiritual, and cultural healing. The episode underscores the significance of holistic healing practices and the role various practitioners, not just therapists, can play in facilitating this process. Tune in to explore transformative insights and practical strategies for personal and collective liberation.

Connect with Monique and Remember To Subscribe And Review The Podcast.

Share Your Takeaways From The Podcast With The Hashtag: #SBTPODCAST

IG: @moemotivate; @shinebrightertogether

Get Monique's book EntrepreFriendships

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How to Talk About Consumerism With Kids Jun 18, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Shine Brighter Together podcast, Monique Melton dives into a conversation many folks are unsure how to start—talking with children about money, overconsumption, and the values we want them to hold. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator, or someone with kids in your life, Monique invites you to consider how your own early experiences with money might still shape your habits today—and how that impacts the children watching and learning from you.

From doing a personal inventory to noticing how kids respond to money conversations, Monique offers approachable ways to talk about needs vs. wants, build healthier attitudes about consumerism, and teach values like contentment, resource-sharing, and thoughtful spending. She also explores the importance of raising children with values that don't rely on constant buying, especially in a world designed to promote consumption at every turn.

Tune in to learn how to make space for these meaningful conversations in everyday moments, and hear why being different from the status quo isn't a bad thing—it's often where real growth begins.

Chilling, Learning, and Evolving Oct 31, 2023

Show notes

In this enlightening episode we take a deep dive into the world of self-care and well-being. Monique engages in a candid and insightful conversation with the remarkable guest, Nikki Blak, as they share their experiences and explore the art of happiness, liberation, and living life on your terms.

Discover why making self-care a central pillar of your life is more critical than ever. Learn from Monique and Nikki about the joys of embracing activities like journaling, painting, dancing, and indulging in the simple pleasure of taking soothing baths. Gain valuable insights into the vital importance of establishing clear boundaries, both personally and professionally.

Join us as we guide you on a journey to discover your own path to happiness and liberation, while challenging traditional norms and fostering co-created knowledge in a multifaceted world. Listen in, and you might just find yourself on the path to your own joyful liberation.

Remember To Subscribe And Review The Podcast. Share Your Takeaways From The Podcast With The Hashtag: #SBTPODCAST

Connect With Monique On Social Media:

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IG: @moemotivate; @shinebrightertogether

Nikki Blak: nikkiblak

Youtube: @ShineBrightSchool

Get Monique's book EntrepreFriendships

Support the podcast: Join Support Liberation

Website: https://www.shinebrightschool.com/

Nikki Blak: https://www.blakisbeautiful.com/

What You Should Be Asking Your Friends Oct 17, 2023

Show notes

Monique asks important questions you should ask your friends. This episode of the Shine Brighter Together Podcast is a heartfelt reminder to be intentional and deliberate in our relationships. It's an invitation to stay curious, interested, and engaged in the ever-evolving journey of friendship. Listen in to verify if you are truly showing up for your friends.

Remember To Subscribe And Review The Podcast. Share Your Takeaways From The Podcast With The Hashtag: #SBTPODCAST

Connect With Monique On Social Media:

Join The Shine Brighter Together Community To Stay Up To Date On The Shine Brighter Together Podcast.

IG: @moemotivate; @shinebrightertogether

Youtube: @ShineBrightSchool

Get Monique's book EntrepreFriendships

Support the podcast: Join Support Liberation

Website: https://www.shinebrightschool.com/

Are friendships with white people for Black people possible? Oct 10, 2023

Show notes

In this thought-provoking episode, we dive deep into the complex and nuanced question: Is it safe for Black individuals, particularly Black women, to form friendships with white people? Join us as we explore the challenges, considerations, and potential pitfalls of such friendships. Drawing from personal experiences, Monique sheds light on the various factors that can make these relationships complicated and even unsafe for Black individuals. From the importance of anti-racism work to the dangers of expecting Black friends to validate behavior, we cover it all. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics at play and discover how to navigate these friendships with empathy and respect. Join the conversation and embark on a journey toward more meaningful and inclusive connections.

Remember To Subscribe And Review The Podcast. Share Your Takeaways From The Podcast With The Hashtag: #SBTPODCAST

Connect With Monique On Social Media:

Join The Shine Brighter Together Community To Stay Up To Date On The Shine Brighter Together Podcast.

IG: @moemotivate; @shinebrightertogether

Youtube: @ShineBrightSchool

Get Monique's book EntrepreFriendships

Support the podcast: Join Support Liberation

Website: https://www.shinebrightschool.com/

Motherhood Isn't For Everyone Oct 03, 2023

Show notes

In this thought-provoking episode, Monique speaks about the personal and often overlooked aspects of motherhood and the societal pressures surrounding it. She shares her own experiences and insights, shedding light on the importance of respecting individual choices. The episode also challenges the romanticized view of parenthood, acknowledging that not everyone who becomes a parent wanted to or loves the experience.

Join us in this enlightening conversation and continue exploring these topics in our Shine Bright School, where we foster a community that embraces diversity of choices. Remember, we shine brighter together. 🌟

Remember To Subscribe And Review The Podcast. Share Your Takeaways From The Podcast With The Hashtag: #SBTPODCAST

Connect With Monique On Social Media:

Join The Shine Brighter Together Community To Stay Up To Date On The Shine Brighter Together Podcast.

IG: @moemotivate; @shinebrightertogether

Get Monique's book EntrepreFriendships

Support the podcast: Join Support Liberation

Key Signs You're In A Healthy Friendship Sep 26, 2023

Show notes

In this enlightening podcast episode, we delve into the intricate dynamics of healthy friendships. Discover the seven telltale signs that you're in a nurturing and supportive friendship. This episode not only highlights the importance of these signs but also provides valuable insights into fostering and maintaining healthy relationships. Tune in to uncover the secrets of lasting connections and join the conversation in our vibrant community.

Remember To Subscribe And Review The Podcast. Share Your Takeaways From The Podcast With The Hashtag: #SBTPODCAST

Connect With Monique On Social Media:

Join The Shine Brighter Together Community To Stay Up To Date On The Shine Brighter Together Podcast.

IG: @moemotivate; @shinebrightertogether

Get Monique's book EntrepreFriendships

Support the podcast: Join Support Liberation

Embracing Body Positivity and Building Community Sep 19, 2023

Show notes

Join host Monique in an uplifting and insightful episode of the Shine Brighter Together Podcast as she welcomes the remarkable CeCe Olisa. Together, they dive into the world of body positivity, beauty, and community-building. CeCe shares her inspiring journey and introduces her body-positive beauty company, Cocoa By CeCe, which is making waves in the beauty industry.

Discover the power of self-care routines and the importance of balancing urgency and importance in your life. Gain valuable insights into building a structured and organized approach to achieving your goals. CeCe's unique body butter application method offers a glimpse into her detail-oriented nature and dedication to her craft.

Prepare to be motivated and inspired by this engaging conversation that reminds us all to embrace our unique journeys and shine brighter together. Tune in for an episode filled with wisdom, positivity, and a touch of self-discovery, and a special discount code to Cocoa by CeCe.

Resources mentioned in this podcast:

Cocoa by CeCe-Add discount code "shine" at check out https://cocoabycece.com/

Nap Ministry- https://thenapministry.com/

Remember To Subscribe And Review The Podcast. Share Your Takeaways From The Podcast With The Hashtag: #SBTPODCAST

Connect With Monique On Social Media:

Join The Shine Brighter Together Community To Stay Up To Date On The Shine Brighter Together Podcast.

IG: @moemotivate; @shinebrightertogether

Get Monique's book EntrepreFriendships

Support the podcast: Join Support Liberation

Loneliness Sep 12, 2023

Show notes

In this weeks episode of the "Shine Brighter Together" podcast, we dive deep into the universal human experience of loneliness and the pursuit of meaningful connections. Join us in candid conversations as we explore the complex emotions that come with feeling disconnected and the transformative power of opening up about our experiences.

Remember To Subscribe And Review The Podcast. Share Your Takeaways From The Podcast With The Hashtag: #SBTPODCAST

Connect With Monique On Social Media:

Join The Shine Brighter Together Community To Stay Up To Date On The Shine Brighter Together Podcast.

IG: @moemotivate; @shinebrightertogether

Youtube: @ShineBrightSchool

Get Monique's book EntrepreFriendships

Support the podcast: Join Support Liberation

Website: https://www.shinebrightschool.com/