BeUPod

Trigger warning: This episode includes thoughtful discussion of suicide and grief.
In this profoundly moving episode of BEUPOD, we welcome Tamara Grossett—minister, life coach, and intuitive connector—whose story is one of faith, healing, and radical transformation. A woman of quiet strength and deep wisdom, Tamara invites us into her journey across identities, continents, and callings.
Tamara speaks candidly about navigating cultural assumptions, embracing her spiritual calling, and discovering her passion for coaching. With degrees from Princeton, the University of Pennsylvania, and Carnegie Mellon, her voice carries both intellectual rigour and soulful depth.
Reflecting on her personal mission to help others become who they were uniquely designed to be, Tamara shares how the devastating loss of her son to suicide reshaped her life. Prayer, community, and spiritual rhythms became her lifelines. Through vulnerability and grace, she offers wisdom on reclaiming purpose, building connection, and leading with authenticity.
At the heart of this episode is Tamara’s declaration: “I am my ancestors’ wildest dreams.” We explore how she lives that truth—honoring her ancestors’ strength, resilience, and creativity while paving a path for generations to come.
If you're seeking grounding, healing, or a reminder that transformation is possible even in the face of deep loss, this conversation will stay with you long after it ends.
To learn more or work with Tamara as a coach, you can reach her at tamara.grossett@gmail.com.
🌿 Support & Resources
If this episode brings up feelings of grief, depression, or thoughts of self-harm, know that you're not alone. Here are trusted resources you can tap into:
In crisis or feeling suicidal? Call or text 988 for 24/7 confidential support via the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (cdc.gov)
For text-based support in the U.S., text HOME to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line (crisistextline.org)
More resources from trusted organizations:
NAMI HelpLine (info & emotional support): 1-800-950-NAMI or visit nami.org
SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline: Call 1‑800‑985‑5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 (mhanational.org)
To Write Love on Her Arms (TWLOHA): Hope & support for those struggling with depression, self-harm, addiction, and suicide (twloha.com)
HeadsUpGuys: Tools and support for men’s mental health and suicide prevention (headsupguys.org)
Active Minds: Peer-to-peer mental health advocacy for young adults and students (activeminds.org)
Outside the U.S.? Visit findahelpline.com for local, confidential support wherever you are.

In this episode of Black Excellence Unfiltered we welcome Webby winning & Emmy nominated Victor Kamwendo (@Zulu_Warrior), a young Malawian filmmaker, producer, and actor. Victor shares his inspiring journey from Malawi to the United States, revealing the pivotal moments that shaped his path in the entertainment industry. From his transformative college experience guided by a guest director to moving to Los Angeles without knowing anyone in the industry, Victor's story is one of resilience and passion. Hear about his struggles, triumphs, and deep-rooted commitment to representing Malawian artists on the global stage. Victor also talks about his commitment to mental health, fitness, and the importance of having a supportive network. Don't miss his insights on how to break into the entertainment industry, the essence of Black Excellence, and his upcoming projects, including a hit Netflix documentary and a new podcast. Subscribe on your favourite Podcast platform to be the first to listen to more inspirational stories from outstanding individuals like Victor Kamwendo.
#BlackExcellence #EntertainmentIndustry #Inspiration

In this episode, Anya and Dr. Tiamo sit down with Teti Lekalake—a  marketer at Meta, INSEAD MBA graduate, and founder of the Career Queens podcast. Originally from Botswana and now based in New York, Teti opens up about her journey across continents, navigating the tech industry.
Teti reflects on the power of representation, the impact of her family’s values, and the challenges she's faced as a Black woman in tech. Through moments of vulnerability, she shares how she’s cultivated resilience, redefined success, and continues to build spaces for community and mentorship.
This episode is a celebration of identity, ambition, and the courage it takes to feel the fear and do it anyway.

In this episode of Black Excellence Unfiltered, co-hosts Anya, and Dr. Tiamo, tackle the complexities of dating for Black women. The conversation provides insight into societal pressures, mental health impacts, and the evolving narrative around relationships. They delve into statistical data on marriage rates, discuss the significance of the ‘soft life’ trend, and emphasize the importance of self-awareness, healing, and adjusting expectations. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, Anya and Dr. Tiamo encourage Black women to know themselves, set priorities, and enjoy the dating journey while being open to authentic connections.

Mental health is more than just a buzzword—it’s a critical part of our well-being that too often gets overlooked or stigmatized in the Black community. In this bonus episode of Black Excellence Unfiltered, we break down what mental health really means, the common struggles we face, and why self-awareness and proactive care are essential.
We explore the impact of stigma, the power of community and spirituality in healing, and the importance of recognizing when to seek professional help.Through engaging dialogue and personal experiences, we offer practical insights to help you navigate your mental wellness journey.
Trigger Warning: This episode includes references to suicide.
Tune in now—because protecting your peace is just as important as securing the bag. #BlackExcellence #MentalHealthMatters
 
Resources referenced:
For those in the US
Call or text 988.
Chat 988lifeline.org.
Therapy for Black Girls: https://therapyforblackgirls.com/
Clinicians: https://www.cliniciansofcolor.org/
Megan Thee Stallion website
https://tinyurl.com/53dcfw5t
Global helplines
https://findahelpline.com/

In this episode of Black Excellence Unfiltered, co-hosts Anya and Dr. Tiamo sit down with Dumisani Kapanga to explore his remarkable journey from Malawi to the UK, and ultimately to New York. Dumisani shares how his evolving identity has shaped his experiences in life and career, navigating the challenges of being underestimated, adapting to new environments, and maintaining resilience under pressure. The conversation dives deep into the personal side of excellence, as Dumisani opens up about his struggles with anxiety, the strategies he uses for self-care—including his transformative 'Dumi days'—and the importance of therapy. He also reflects on the value of intentionality, vulnerability, and grace, urging listeners to embrace their own paths while building meaningful connections. Join us for an inspiring discussion that redefines Black excellence, highlighting the power of resilience, role models, and living with purpose.

In this bonus episode Dr. Tiamo, co-host of the podcast,  talks about her journey, experiences, and motivations. The conversation delves into Dr. Tiamo's personal 'why,' her purpose of making the world better, and her path to becoming a psychologist from Malawi to the USA. Significant moments include her discovery of her calling, experiences with culture shock, battling loneliness and depression, and the importance of vulnerability. The episode also discusses the nuances of Black excellence, its unique challenges, and the importance of strong, supportive relationships. Dr. Tiamo emphasizes the significance of being authentic and creating spaces for vulnerability within the Black community.

In this episode, Heather Katsonga Woodward (@TheFinancialPlannerUK) shares her authentic journey, exploring her career path in banking, civil service, and entrepreneurship. Heather discusses her complex identity, the pursuit of financial independence, and the importance of not being boxed into societal labels. She emphasizes the value of social, time, and financial wealth and stresses the importance of maintaining personal boundaries to achieve a balanced life. Heather reflects on overcoming challenges, maintaining confidence, and redefining black excellence by embracing individuality and living authentically. The conversation offers insights into navigating work environments, maintaining self-care, and fostering personal growth and independence.

Highlights from our first episode

In this episode, we introduce you to our podcast and dive into the transformative journey of balancing career ambitions with mental health challenges. We share our experience of "building the plane while flying," highlighting the complexities of pursuing 'excellence' amid societal and personal hurdles.
We discuss the misconception that mental health is a binary state, emphasizing that it's a spectrum where struggles and strengths coexist. A key takeaway is learning to embrace both strength and vulnerability. We speak candidly about the importance of self-compassion and the value of recognizing one's needs.
Tune in for a taste of how we plan to build a supportive community and a path to wellness through this Podcast.