

The Journey with Morgan DeBaun
Morgan DeBaun
Welcome to The Journey podcast, a weekly podcast that delves into the captivating stories of purpose-driven achievers on their quest for living their best lives. Hosted by serial entrepreneur and Founder & CEO of Blavity Inc., Morgan DeBaun, and features a diverse lineup of guests such as Emmy-nominated actors, elite athletes, experienced doulas, viral social media influencers, eco-conscious pioneers, and more. Tune in for empowering conversations sharing personal growth and self-discovery experiences. Embark on The Journey with us!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 28, 2023 • 56min
Sober Living & Choosing to be Child-Free ft. Ruby Warrington
This week Morgan DeBaun is joined by author Ruby Warrington, the creator of the term "sober curious," for a thought-provoking conversation on sobriety, the pressure to conform, and the nuances of being child-free in a world defined by expectations. Ruby shares her transformative journey of becoming sober curious, and choosing an alcohol-free lifestyle, and Morgan opens up about her personal realization during pregnancy on how deeply entrenched alcohol is within our culture. Together they discuss the challenges non-drinkers face, particularly in professional settings where alcohol often acts as a networking lubricant. Ruby boldly addresses how the lack of alternatives for non-drinkers can perpetuate a sense of exclusion, even hinting at a form of discrimination. As the holiday season approaches and social drinking is at a high, Ruby invites listeners to reevaluate their relationship with alcohol. She poses a powerful question: "Would my life be better without alcohol?" Steering the conversation into another significant aspect of personal choice, Ruby shares her experience as a woman who has chosen to be child-free. Both she and Morgan unpack the societal pressures on women regarding motherhood, challenging the stereotypes and implications associated with a woman's decision to not have children or to approach motherhood in a way that is deemed outside the norm. Reflecting on the battles fought by our foremothers for women's autonomy, Ruby highlights the privilege of choice and encourages intentional decision-making in all areas of life. Tune in to this engaging conversation that is sure to empower you to get sober curious, question societal norms, and embrace the freedom of choice in a world filled with expectations. If you have any takeaways as you embark on your own sober curious journey, make sure to share with Morgan! Make sure you are following Morgan on TikTok to follow along with her beauty and wellness journey! https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_ Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase. Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Produced by AosseyCreative.

Nov 21, 2023 • 47min
How Hope Wiseman Became a Pioneer in The Business of Cannabis
This week, Morgan DeBaun is joined by cannabis business pioneer Hope Wiseman as they dive into the intriguing world of cannabis entrepreneurship.In this candid conversation, Hope recounts her unexpected journey into the cannabis industry after recognizing the industry's potential during the legalization wave and seizing the chance to make a mark early on. Hope then delves into the science behind cannabis, shedding light on the endocannabinoid system naturally present in our bodies and how the genetic makeup of different strains interact with each of us differently. She also explains the complexity of medicinal marijuana use, as doctors can recommend marijuana but will not prescribe particular doses or strains due to their federal licensing. Hope and Morgan discuss the hurdles of the cannabis industry, uncovering the red tape and restrictions that Hope has faced in the years since opening her retail store, Mary and Main. Together, Morgan and Hope reflect on their individual paths to entrepreneurship as young Black women. Hope shares her desire to create more accessible paths for young entrepreneurs to scale their ventures. Tune in to hear how Hope has navigated the cannabis industry, and how she continues to innovate within the space and normalize marijuana in the mainstream! Don't forget to make sure you are subscribed to the show and leave a rating and review to let us know how much you love these conversations week after week! Additional Resources: Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase. Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Produced by AosseyCreative

Nov 14, 2023 • 34min
Make Money On Social Media: Morgan's Tips to Building a Personal Brand
Morgan is on her own this week to give you the inside scoop on personal branding and brand partnerships. If you're intrigued by the idea of creating a personal brand, you're in for a treat! The episode starts off with personal branding basics: figuring out what type of content you want to post, where you want to post it, and why consistency is key. Morgan gets into how to ensure your feed is a clear representation of who you are and what you do. She also breaks down her own social media presence, exemplifying how these decisions can impact the success of your personal brand. Partnerships play a crucial role in personal branding, and Morgan is spilling her invaluable insight on the matter - both as a personal brand and a representative of Blavity, which is often on the other end of brand deals. She talks about the importance of being brand-safe, why engagement often matters more than follower count, and how to consider lucrative categories if you're looking to monetize your personal brand. To wrap up the episode, Morgan offers expert tips on how to get brand deals, from researching potential brands to carefully negotiating the deal - all with the goal of helping you make informed and mutually beneficial connections. So whether you're a seasoned influencer or just starting out on your personal branding journey, Morgan DeBaun's insights and experiences will provide you with valuable guidance to help you stand out online. Tune in to this episode of The Journey Podcast, and make sure to hit subscribe if you haven't already! Additional Resources: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase. Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Produced by AosseyCreative

Nov 7, 2023 • 57min
Owning Our Struggles: Boundaries, Healing Trauma & Community Care with Minaa B.
This week, Morgan is joined by licensed social worker, mental health educator, and author Minaa B. for a deep dive into the art of setting boundaries. Just in time for the holidays! Morgan kicks off the conversation by sharing her own experience battling mental health challenges and loneliness during the early days of Blavity, and Minaa explains the need for self-care as a preventative practice rather than a crisis response. They also explore the reality that sometimes it is necessary to shift things around and ask for help when you've met your capacity, which can feel particularly uncomfortable for Black leaders when Black culture is so closely tied to independence. The conversation moves to the distinction between genuine boundaries and "avoidance culture," a facade that often masks deeper emotional conflict. Minaa emphasizes the role of communication in collective healing, shedding light on the core premise of her book, "Owning Our Struggles," which focuses on healing from trauma through community care. To close things out, Minaa breaks down what the terms "gaslighting" and "narcissist" actually mean. If these are words you throw around casually, you'll want to listen up! Tune in for a conversation that is both calming and empowering on embracing boundaries, community care, and owning your healing journey. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a rating and review to support the show! Additional Resources: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Enjoyed This Episode? Listen to This Next: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dating-as-a-high-achieving-woman-ft-yvonne-orji/id1687058364?i=1000630022086 Produced by AosseyCreative

Oct 31, 2023 • 37min
Reality TV, Red Flags, and Rising Stars with Kamie Crawford
This week, Morgan DeBaun sits down with Kamie Crawford, the dynamic and talented host of Catfish. Kamie takes us on a captivating journey through her life and career, revealing that hard work and dedication have been the driving forces behind her success every step of the way. Kamie recounts her incredible transformation from a pageant queen to a renowned TV host, showcasing her unwavering commitment to learning. She dives into the extensive training and mentorship she's received, which has been instrumental in honing her craft and achieving her goals. Morgan and Kamie also share their thoughts on the changing landscape of television, discussing how YouTubers, Instagram stars, and TikTokers are breaking into the industry, and what that means for people who dream of being on TV. And of course, Kamie opens up about relationship red flags, both from her personal experiences and what she's encountered on Catfish. Everything from a lack of generosity and poor tipping etiquette to personal hygiene faux pas, she lays it all out on the table. Don't miss this engaging and candid conversation with a unique behind-the-scenes look at Kamie Crawford's journey. Subscribe to The Journey podcast and stay tuned for more inspiring stories from remarkable individuals as you continue your own journey to success! Additional Resources: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Enjoyed This Episode? Listen to This Next: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dating-as-a-high-achieving-woman-ft-yvonne-orji/id1687058364?i=1000630022086 Produced by AosseyCreative

Oct 24, 2023 • 60min
Plastic Surgery Facts vs. Myths with Dr. Wilton Triggs
This week, prominent Miami plastic surgeon Dr. Wilton Triggs is joining Morgan DeBaun to answer your questions and separate facts from myths on all things cosmetic surgery. Expect an exclusive look into Dr. Triggs' day-to-day life as a plastic surgeon – from the number of surgeries he typically performs in a day to how he uses mood boards to manage patient expectations. Procedures on the docket for conversation: Brazilian Butt Lifts, breast augmentations, botox, facelifts, tummy-tucks, heightening surgeries, and the newly popular "DDL" (you just have to listen to find out what that is), and so much more. Plus, Dr. Triggs is getting into the details of how scars are hidden and some of the risks associated with surgery. The conversation takes an unexpected turn, with Dr. Triggs sharing some of the more memorable experiences he's had in the office – from patients regularly finding out they are pregnant on the day of surgery to a woman attending her consultation from a prison contraband phone. In the end, Dr. Triggs shares his vision for a future of philanthropy, underlining the importance of giving back and creating a positive impact beyond the operating room. Get ready to expand your knowledge on cosmetic surgery, laughing all the way through. And if having work done is in your future, schedule a consultation with Dr. Wilton Triggs himself! Additional Resources: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Enjoyed This Episode? Listen to This Next: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/am-i-taking-maternity-leave-6-month-life-update-pregnancy-q-a/id1687058364?i=1000621498234 Produced by AosseyCreative

Oct 17, 2023 • 18min
Perfect Morning Routine to Start Your Day (Introducing Mor Matcha!)
This week, Morgan is spilling the tea (or drinking it) on starting the morning right with matcha. She is sharing the story of how she came to love the delicious green drink, and why she decided to create Mor Matcha, her own high-quality matcha brand that aims to bring matcha to the masses. Prepare to be convinced to swap your morning coffee for a matcha latte - even if you've resisted in the past. Morgan explains the superior focus and energy benefits of matcha compared to coffee and debunks the myth that matcha is too complicated to make every morning. She also shares her favorite ways to prepare her daily drink and what a difference switching from coffee to matcha has made in her professional life. Want to experience the difference for yourself? You can now pre-order Morgan's very own high-quality matcha at mormatcha.com. Tune into the episode, and get ready to shake up your morning routine! Additional Resources: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Enjoyed This Episode? Listen to This Next: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/am-i-taking-maternity-leave-6-month-life-update-pregnancy-q-a/id1687058364?i=1000621498234 Produced by AosseyCreative

Oct 10, 2023 • 45min
The Patriarchy Harms Men Too! ft. Liz Plank
This week on the podcast Morgan DeBaun is joined by Liz Plank, award-winning journalist, author, and co-host of the renowned podcasts Synced and Man Enough. Together, Morgan and Liz explore what it means to live in a patriarchal society - and the harm that can come from the patriarchy to both women and men. From what it means to be a feminist, to the impacts of patriarchal expectations on men's mental health, Liz is bringing her expertise on gender and oppression to the mic. Through the episode, both Morgan and Liz share experiences they have had navigating the workplace with men, and Morgan dives into the ways her pregnancy has shed new light on disparities between the sexes. They examine how parental leave policies (or the lack-there-of) in the United States contribute to sustained patterns of inequality, and discuss the reality that expectations on moms and dads differ so drastically. Liz closes out the episode sharing her most recent project - a documentary on disability rights called 'Not So Special' that aims to abolish ablism. Follow along with the film process on Instagram @notsospecialfilm for updates on when it is available to watch! However you identify, this episode is for you, so sit back and tune in. Loving the podcast? Make sure to leave a rating and review! More from Liz:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/feministabulous/ Man Enough Podcast: https://manenough.com/podcast/ Liz's Film 'Not So Special': https://www.instagram.com/notsospecialfilm/ Additional Resources: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Enjoyed This Episode? Listen to This Next: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/am-i-taking-maternity-leave-6-month-life-update-pregnancy-q-a/id1687058364?i=1000621498234 Produced by AosseyCreative

Oct 3, 2023 • 48min
Dating as a High-Achieving Woman ft. Yvonne Orji
This week, Morgan DeBaun is joined by Nigerian-American actress, author, and comedian, Yvonne Orji. Known for her role in HBO's hit series Insecure and her popular book, 'Bamboozled By Jesus,' Yvonne is here for nuanced conversations on success, love, and faith. In this episode, Yvonne opens up about her experience navigating love and relationships with celebrity status, and she and Morgan reflect on the challenges of dating as ambitious, high-achieving women. They discuss the importance of understanding attachment styles and why setting high standards in the pursuit of love is a must. Yvonne shares stories of past relationships, and how both the good and bad experiences have taught her to ask God for what she wants. In an unexpected twist, Yvonne flips the script on Morgan, asking her to reflect on her own journey of self-love and becoming a mother. Morgan shares the challenges and triumphs of navigating pregnancy as a black woman and preparing to raise her child in an imperfect world. Grab your headphones, settle in, and get ready for a reflective, insightful conversation between two friends. Want to be a part of the conversation? Leave a message for Morgan at (213) 935-0054 to share your thoughts, ask a question, or even recommend a topic! More from Yvonne:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yvonneorji/?hl=en Website: https://www.yvonneorji.com/ Her book: https://www.bamboozledbyjesus.com/ Additional Resources: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Enjoyed This Episode? Listen to This Next: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/am-i-taking-maternity-leave-6-month-life-update-pregnancy-q-a/id1687058364?i=1000621498234 Produced by AosseyCreative

Sep 26, 2023 • 27min
I'm Writing a Book! My Journey Navigating the Publishing Process
Dive deep into another episode of the Journey podcast, hosted by Morgan DeBaun. This week, Morgan shares her book-writing journey and the insights she's gleaned along the way to help future authors navigate the chaotic world of publishing. Morgan also opens up about her initial hesitation to chronicle her life story, how she put herself back into the shoes of 25-year-old Morgan, and what her advice is for anyone looking to write a book! Whether you're an aspiring author or on a personal growth journey, this episode is a no-gatekeeping peek into the publishing world! Additional Resources: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Enjoyed This Episode? Listen to This Next: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/am-i-taking-maternity-leave-6-month-life-update-pregnancy-q-a/id1687058364?i=1000621498234 Produced by AosseyCreative


