Latest Episodes
A Playlist Pick-Me-Up with Spotify Playlist Queen, Mjeema Pickett!
July 2, 2020
When you think of the modern playlist, there are a few people who should be thanked. Mjeema Pickett (@ladyjeems), Spotify’s Head of R&B...
Patti LaBelle Feels 35 And Looks Just As Fierce!
June 25, 2020
Listen… You can never fully prepare yourself to meet a legend. We tried and we think we did ok when PATTI LABELLE (@mspattilabelle)...
This Is Juneteenth: A Celebration of Our Black Freedom, History, and Future
June 19, 2020
There’s a lot going on in the country and the world right now. But one thing we refuse to do is to let it stop our Black joy. So, we’re...
About The Show
At Black Girl Magic headquarters, senior editors Cori Murray (@corimurray), Charli Penn (@ManWifeDog) host ESSENCE's Yes, Girl! Podcast every Thursday. The award-nominated, podcast fills your glass with celebrity interviews, pop culture and unapologetic perspective. From week-to-week, they're uplifting everybody who’s taking Black culture a little higher.
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More Episodes
A Playlist Pick-Me-Up with Spotify Playlist Queen, Mjeema Pickett!
July 2, 2020
When you think of the modern playlist, there are a few people who should be thanked. Mjeema Pickett (@ladyjeems), Spotify’s Head of R&B...
Patti LaBelle Feels 35 And Looks Just As Fierce!
June 25, 2020
Listen… You can never fully prepare yourself to meet a legend. We tried and we think we did ok when PATTI LABELLE (@mspattilabelle)...
This Is Juneteenth: A Celebration of Our Black Freedom, History, and Future
June 19, 2020
There’s a lot going on in the country and the world right now. But one thing we refuse to do is to let it stop our Black joy. So, we’re...
Farrah Fawx Set FIRE to Our Feeds with the #ESSENCEChallenge!
June 18, 2020
This was an extra beautiful week to be Black! Just in time for our 50th Anniversary, Farrah Fawx (@farrahfawx) set our Instagram feeds...
We LOVE Kirk & Tammy Franklin’s Authentic Love!
June 12, 2020
The only reason we’re not tired of seeing #RelationshipGoals is because of couples like Kirk (@kirkfranklin) and Tammy Franklin...
Black Moms On The Front Lines: These Black Women Reporters Are Bringing Us Life-Saving News
June 11, 2020
For our final episode of the Black Moms on the Front Lines Series, we speak with three Black mothers who are reporters. Michelle...
Tracee Ellis Ross Is Absolutely The High Note Of Our Week!
June 5, 2020
She’s back! Y’all know Tracee Ellis Ross (@traceeellisross) is an ESSENCE sweetheart! This conversation was so full of love, honesty,...
Black Moms On the Front Lines: The Power of Trust Is NOLA Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s Biggest Weapon Against COVID-19
June 4, 2020
New Orleans. ESSENCE’s home-away-from-home has done an extraordinary job of flattening the COVID-19 curve due to the guidance and...
Insecure’s Kendrick Sampson Is At Peace With Disturbing the Peace
May 29, 2020
Insecure social justice warrior, Kendrick Sampson (@kendrick38) checked in with Yes, Girl! Podcast and boy was it a treat! Ahead of his...
Tika Sumpter & Thai Randolph Unite to Create a (Safe) Sweet Space For Black Moms!
May 22, 2020
As a Black woman where do you go for info on all things motherhood, whether you’re a mother or expecting or just..thinking about it?...
Black Moms On the Front Lines Ep. 2: Kenya Slaughter Never Wanted To Be A Front-Line Worker
May 19, 2020
Yes, Girl! podcast presents, On the Frontlines - a celebration of Black women who are taking care of our families...and theirs too....
Can Kelis Adopt Us And Let Us Live On Her Zen Glam Farm?
May 14, 2020
No, seriously. How can we be down? The mother/singer/master chef’s (@kelis) California farm is the ultimate low-key glammed out...
Black Moms On the Front Lines Ep. 1: Twin Doctors Uché and Oni Blackstock Are Battling Structural Racism in Healthcare
May 8, 2020
Yes, Girl! podcast presents, On the Frontlines - a celebration of Black women who are taking care of our families...and theirs too....
Kandi's Got Advice For Women Considering Surrogacy!
May 7, 2020
The mother, singer, songwriter, businesswoman extraordinaire and reality TV star dropped by Yes, Girl! to share what’s she’s been up to...
Teddy Riley Wrote "Let's Chill" About His Own Puppy Love!
April 30, 2020
We’re so glad that even during a global pandemic, music can still bring people together. We're specifically talking about how we got to...
Kelly Rowland Stands Solidly In Her Sexuality & It's A Whole Vibe!
April 23, 2020
Just because we’re self-isolating doesn’t mean we can’t get down with some new tunes! And of course the one-and-only Kelly Rowland...
Kierra Sheard Is Blessed and Highly Favored, For More Reasons Than You Think
April 15, 2020
If you watched “The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel” on Lifetime this weekend raise your hand. If you didn't, we won’t shame you,...
Eva Marcille Gives Us A Masterclass On Confidence, Beauty, and Unapologetic BLACKness!
April 9, 2020
Eva the Beautiful Diva (@evamarcille) is here! She came in like a burst of light and filled up the Essence studio with such great energy...
Last Night DJ D-Nice Saved Our Lives - And We’re FOREVER Grateful!
March 26, 2020
Huddle up, y’all. We’ve recently realized that the whole world has been using the word ‘epic’ way too loosely. We realized this after...
We Aspire to Keep Calm (and Unbothered), Just like Omarion!
March 19, 2020
Yes, Girl! family, we all hope that you are staying safe and taking care of yourself. While at home, we're doing all the things: washing...
Lauren & Cameron From Netflix’s ‘Love Is Blind’ Are As Adorable As You Imagine And They're Already Thinking About Their Future Children!
March 11, 2020
If you’ve not watched Netflix’s newest reality show sensation ‘Love Is Blind’ you need to stop what you’re doing and go binge it right...
Our Homegirl Danielle Brooks Has a Beautiful New Baby And A Few “Champagne Problems!” + SURPRISE!!! 'The Great Girlfriends' Brandice Daniel And Sybil Amuti Are Here!!
March 6, 2020
Look...We’re not even gon’ hold you - We were finally able to coordinate an incredible official YES, GIRL! conversation with our...
New Empire. Same Woman. Taraji P. Henson Is A Boss, And Don’t You Forget It
February 25, 2020
We did it again! We had an incredible conversation with another cover star! Taraji P. Henson (@tarajiphenson) covers our March/April...
Robin Thede Stays Winning Because She ALWAYS Has A Plan!
February 20, 2020
Y’all are going to LOVE this episode! Robin Thede (@robinthede) is a friend to Yes, Girl! so of COURSE we were thrilled to have our sis...
K.Michelle Is In Transition - Mind, Body & Music!
February 14, 2020
Just in time for Valentine’s Day - our favorite Love & Hip Hop cast member, K. Michelle (@kmichellemusic) is here this week and can we...
The Sexiest, Funniest, & Most Motivating Yes, Girl! Moments of 2019!
February 6, 2020
2019 was full of great Yes, Girl! Episodes. We ki-ki’d in sisterhood with some of the most beautiful souls. We unknowingly created some...
This One’s For The #GirlDads | #RIPKobeandGianna
January 30, 2020
Since learning of the passing of sports legend Kobe Bryant, and his daughter Gianna Bryant. The conversations surrounding his legacy...
Michael B. Jordan Is Taking Total Control Of His Creative Destiny & We STAN
January 10, 2020
The Wire, Friday Night Lights, Fruitvale Station, Creed, Black Panther - the list goes ON. We are always here for a strong Black come-up...
A Standing O For The Black Girl Magic Moments That Made The Decade!
January 3, 2020
Yes, Girl! is THE place where Black Girl Magic reigns, ok? So, we decided to compile an episode with the hosts of the ESSENCE Podcast...
LL Cool J’s STILL Rockin’ The Bells + Davido Is...Planning A Wedding!
December 27, 2019
Yes, girl - we’re on holiday break! But you didn’t think we’d leave you hangin’, did you? We’ve got not one but TWO dope conversations...
Sophia Chang Is Unapologetically The Baddest Chick In EVERY Room
December 21, 2019
Sophia Chang (@sophchangnyc) is the queen bee of badasses! She’s lighting up Instagram feeds daily with all the empowerment that a bad...
‘Watchmen’ Star Yahya Abdul-Mateen II Did Not Come To Play With Hollywood!
December 13, 2019
When we say we had a GOOD time with this man? We mean it! Star of the hit HBO series, ‘Watchmen’ Yahya Abdul-Mateen II (@yahya) is the...
Chadwick Boseman & Stephan James Break Down What It Means To Be A Leading Man!
December 6, 2019
What does it take to be a true leading man in Hollywood? We - Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (@charlipenn) got to chat with two of...
Kelly Rowland Sprinkles Holiday Cheer With A New Christmas Movie SHE Produced!
November 28, 2019
The holidays are HERE. You know what we're thankful for? This lovely ki-ki with the glamorous sweetheart (and friend to the brand) -...
All Rise For QUEEN Regina King!
November 25, 2019
Now, you KNOW we were hyped for this interview! And although we (Cori + Charli) weren't the ones interviewing her, it's an honor to have...
Tamela Mann Talks Getting Snatched and Having The Most Supportive Hubby Ever (Who's Also Here!)
November 14, 2019
For those who’ve been part of the Yes, Girl Squad for a while, you’ll remember that Tamela and David Mann joined us last Thanksgiving...
Nobody Loved Whitney Like Robyn Crawford - The Interview You've Been Waiting For
November 12, 2019
Since her death, Whitney Houston’s life has been poked, prodded, and questioned by the masses. Today, Robyn Crawford releases her book...
Give Tank His R&B Roses, Please!
October 31, 2019
Y’all are really going to love this week’s episode. The king of babymaking/’Daddy’ music - Tank (@therealtank) came through Yes, Girl!...
Tracee Ellis Ross, The Queen of Natural Chic, Is Living Her Juiciest Life and Reflects on Her Fame During "Girlfriends"
October 30, 2019
Hey boos! Before this month wraps up, we wanted to share a special bonus episode with our Yes, Girl! fam. Earlier this month, ESSENCE's...
The Best Ki-Ki Ever With First Wives Club Star Ryan Michelle Bathé
October 24, 2019
This week Cori (@corimurray) and Charli (Twitter: @ManWifeDog, IG: @charlipenn) had a whole sister-girl ki-ki with the one and only Ryan...
Truth Is: Love & Faith Helped Set Fantasia Free
October 17, 2019
THEE Fantasia (@tasiaworld) is here this week! You know we love a down-to-earth vibe and Tasia gave us just that. With her new album...
Bebe Winans Just Found Out He’s A Bearded Bae!
October 10, 2019
We keep scoring conversations with legends lately and we ain't even mad at it! This week, Cori (@corimurray), Charli (Twitter:...
Raphael Saadiq’s Hits Have Some Dope Backstories + So Does His Name!
October 3, 2019
Cori and Charli stanned really #hoord for this week’s guest. Borderline embarrassingly so. It’s only because he’s so cool and chill and...
Sexpert, Shan Boodram’s Got The Recipe For That Special Relationship “Sauce”
September 26, 2019
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: This is our first crossover episode between Yes, Girl! and The Solve Podcast! Cori (@corimuray) and Charli...
Jidenna Just Gave The Best Explanation EVER For Why He’s Single (And We Can’t Even Be Mad)
September 20, 2019
It's a very special day! Not only is it our co-host Charli Penn's birthday (Woot woot!) but The Chief himself, Jidenna (@jidenna), came...
THE Shea Butter Baby, Ari Lennox’s Voice (And Laugh) Is Like Soul Food! (We Stan So Hard!)
September 12, 2019
We are all-the-way thrilled to have one of our favorite new recording artists, Ari Lennox (@arilennox), on the show this week! Cori is...
Erika Alexander Schools Us On Rising From Rejection + New Hulu Series: ‘Wu-Tang: An American Saga’
September 5, 2019
So, listen… Sadly, our Hot Girl Summer is on its way out. But we’re determined to hold onto every single ray of sunshine we soaked up...
Sak Pase?! This Is How Jessie Woo Prayed, Worked, & Joked Her Way To The Top
August 29, 2019
Seeesteeerrrs! We are back from our vacations and tanned for the gawds, relaxed, and ready for you to get into this convo with one of...
Larenz Tate's Thoughts On Family, Black Film and the FINAL Season of POWER!
August 22, 2019
We have ALL the love for this legendary leading man! THE “Brother to the Night” aka Larenz Tate (@LarenzTate) was in the building and...
Tyler Perry Challenges the #BlackExcellence in All of Us
August 16, 2019
Heyyy y’all! We (Cori and Charli) are packing our bags and hoppin’ on the first thing smokin’ to get our vacays in before Summer ends!...
Boris Kodjoe’s Got Fineness and Fitness On Lock! (+ BONUS Content)
August 8, 2019
Honeyyy… Have we got a TREAT for you! Listen, lovelies… If you’re trying to figure out what to do with all that residual Hot Girl Summer...
Monica’s Commitment and Friendship Commandments (Preach!)
August 2, 2019
BAES! This week is very special. It’s not just one of those days. It’s a great day because THE Miss Thang herself, Monica...
QUEEN Loretta Devine Drops A Word On Fame And Family
July 26, 2019
Huddle up, family! YGP hosts, Cori and Charli, gave the biggest hug to special guest Loretta Devine (@lodivadevine), star of the new...
Why Senator Cory Booker Is Inspired By Black Women
July 20, 2019
In New Orleans at ESSENCE Festival, the YGP hosts had a chance to get to know some of the 2020 presidential Candidates better. Senator...
Rotimi Is Giving Us LIFE and 'Love Riddim' This Summer
July 13, 2019
Hey fam! Charli and Cori are back from Essence Fest and their recap is one for the books. There, they bumped into this week's guest,...
2019 Guide to a Hot Girl Summer, Plus a Read From Robin Givens
June 30, 2019
Sun’s out and so are the good vibes. Before Cori and Charli pack their bags for festivals and vacations, they share what’s on their...
Kofi Siriboe Pours Out His Heart and Steals Ours
June 14, 2019
Calling all #SiriBAEs—your king is here! Queen Sugar is back and Ralph Angel, a.k.a. Kofi Siriboe (@kofisiriboe) celebrated with Cori...
Bishop T.D. Jakes and Tonya Lewis Lee Bring Food to Our Souls
June 8, 2019
Blessings on blessings! This week’s episode is a double portion of inspiration. Bishop T.D. Jakes (@bishopjakes) will motivate your...
Blair Underwood, Ladies! (You're Welcome!)
May 31, 2019
Ladies, we have a treat for you! Blair Underwood is in the building, and yes he's EVERYTHING you would imagine him to be (and more) -...
Alicia Keys Sits Before Us As A Grown Ass Woman
May 22, 2019
Being in the music industry for nearly twenty years qualifies Alicia Keys (@aliciakeys) to be a lot of things - a veteran, a role model...
Yara Shahidi’s An Old Soul, Plus Diddy Love Continues #CantStopWontStop
May 17, 2019
It’s clear that Yara Shahidi is more than just an actress or an activist, she’s an old soul who’s clearly been in this world before. So...
For Diddy It's Faith and Family over Everything
May 9, 2019
For Mother's Day we're remixing our show just a bit. In a very personal sit down with his friend, dream hampton (@dreamhampton), this...
Michael Ealy + Meagan Good Are Welcome To Our Home Anytime
May 3, 2019
Y’all this week at Black Girl Magic headquarters, it's been been a roller coaster. TGIF! Thankfully The Intruder's Michael Ealy and...
Be Still Our 90s-Loving Hearts! Turn Up With Salt n Pepa and SWV
April 26, 2019
This one goes out to anyone who ever got their entire life belting out the lyrics to “Push It” or “Weak” during an epic night of...
Robin Givens Read Us Like a Book, and We Loved It!
April 18, 2019
Y’all! Robin Givens has longevity on lock! She’s been booked, busy and beautiful for over three decades. Currently starring in two shows...
Issa Rae + Regina Hall Invite Us to Their #BlackGirlMagic Party
April 10, 2019
Issa Rae (@issarae) and Regina Hall (@morereginahall) are an instant mood booster. Their comedic chemistry is so pure, we’re secretly...
Live from Brooklyn, It’s SNL’s Chris Redd
April 5, 2019
Emmy award winner and Saturday Night Live cast member Chris Redd (@chrisreddis), is having a great year. This week, he took a break from...
Why Salli Richardson-Whitfield Is Hollywood’s Secret Weapon
March 28, 2019
Salli Richardson-Whitfield (@sallirichwhit) is a boss on so many levels. Beyond her nearly 30 year acting career, she has become one of...
Winston Duke is BAE & Wakanda...FOREVER
March 22, 2019
Guess who was In the presence of royalty? These gals!! While in Hollywood, we had a chance to hang with actor Winston Duke...
Roy Wood Jr. is the Big Brother We All Need
March 15, 2019
Roy Wood Jr. (@roywoodjr) is more than just a comedian, he’s the friend we all need in our life. This renaissance man—his has legit...
Bozoma Saint John Is A Walking Testament To Owning Your Power
March 8, 2019
We’re spreading the international love y’all! Global boss and all-around badass Bozoma Saint John (@badassboz) is baaacckkk! The...
Eve is here for our 100th episode! She’s a master of reinvention and we’re basking in her light!
March 1, 2019
Being in Los Angeles for Oscars week and our Black Women In Hollywood event was amazing, but we have two more amazing reasons to glow...
We’re Hustling Hard with Side Hustle Pro’s Nicaila Mathews Okome
February 22, 2019
From day one, Nicaila Mathews Okome (@sidehustlepro) has been known to stand out. Through triumph, trial, and error, she has tested her...
Business is Always Personal for Killer Mike and Shay
February 15, 2019
Killer Mike (@killermike) always keeps it honest. Whether talking politics, economics, business or music we respect someone who always...
DeVon Franklin Translates Your Man’s Bad Behavior
February 7, 2019
When it comes to men, who better to ask for answers than a man? Well, we hope you're sitting down, because it’s about to get honest…very...
We’re Black-ish and Better with the Real “Rainbow Johnson” and Life Coach Lindsay Fauntleroy
February 2, 2019
Now that January is history, we’re stepping into Black History Month blacker and better thanks to our guests Rainbow Johnson...
Amanda Seales Wants Black Women to Win
January 25, 2019
Friend to the show Amanda Seales (@amandaseales) truly does it all – comedienne, actress, activist, podcaster, DJ, and host. This week...
Be Yourself, Because Everyone Else Is Taken
January 23, 2019
How can you be your best self if you’re not being true to who you are? All month, we’re helping you do the work of getting to know and...
Beloveds! Iyanla Vanzant Speaks On R. Kelly, Practicing Self Love and Healing Our Community
January 18, 2019
Grab the sage and get ready for spiritual healer Iyanla Vanzant (@IyanlaVanzant) to cleanse and bless your soul for 2019. That’s right...
How Ronnie and Shamari DeVoe Saved Their Marriage and Made It Stronger
January 11, 2019
Ronnie (@bigrondevoe) and Shamari (@shamaridevoe) DeVoe aren't new to this fame game, but they certainly are the real thing. With nearly...
Are You the Driver or the Passenger in Your Own Life?
January 10, 2019
You spoke, and we answered! Thanks to the overwhelming love from last week’s self-care episode. we treating our Yes, Girl family to...
Actions Speak Louder Than Resolutions
January 4, 2019
Happy New Year, family! Sure, it’s Winter break, but we just couldn’t break away from giving you something to listen to. This week,...
Lil Rel Howery and Trevante Rhodes are Funny, Sexy and Cool
December 27, 2018
It's always a good day when bae comes to visit, and we're ending the year with a double dose. Lil Rel Howery (@LilRel4) and Trevante...
Erica Campbell is Booked, Busy and Blessed
December 20, 2018
Erica Campbell (@ImEricaCampbell) is a master of many trades, on the low. The Grammy award-winning singer, radio host, entrepreneur,...
Two Snaps and A Circle For David Alan Grier's Career
December 14, 2018
Enter the presence of comedy royalty. Since the 80s there isn’t a decade that David Alan Grier (@davidalangrier) hasn’t put his stamp...
Bet On Yourself, Like Jemele Hill Did
December 6, 2018
Anchor and journalist Jemele Hill has lived many lives and endured many trials in her career. She’s seen the highs and the lows of what...
Love Callled, and Porsha Williams Answered
November 29, 2018
Porsha Williams (@porsha4real) is having a glow up that is meant-to-be. She has a new man, a new ring, a new baby on the way. Plus she’s...
A Thanksgiving Word with David + Tamela Mann
November 22, 2018
Yes, Girl is coming to Thanksgiving dinner and we didn’t come empty-handed. We brought love and light through David and Tamela Mann...
Go Best Friend! Tisha Campbell And Tichina Arnold In The House
November 21, 2018
In the true spirit of giving, we’re serving up an extra portion of Yes, Girl this week. Grab your seat at this table because you’re...
NeNe Leakes Is Stronger Than Ever and Owning Her Dopeness
November 15, 2018
Just days after the Season 11 premiere of the The Real Housewives Of Atlanta, we sat down with no-nonsense star NeNe Leakes (@NeNe...
How Faith and Love Heal w/ Michelle Williams and Fiancé Chad Johnson
November 8, 2018
Singer Michelle Williams (@RealMichelleW) and her fiancé, professional sports chaplain Chad Johnson (@PastorCJ), have one of the most...
A Seat At the Red Table with Jada Pinkett-Smith and Her Mom Adrienne Banfield-Norris
November 1, 2018
Are you ready for all of that longevity tea?! Charli (@ManWifeDog) and Cori (@corimurray) pulled up a seat at the famous red table with...
A Lesson In Finding Your Purpose With Beauty Boss Jackie Aina
October 25, 2018
When you're living in your purpose, nothing can stop you. Beauty super-influencer and YouTube sensation Jackie Aina (@jackieaina) is...
DeRay McKesson Makes His Case for Hope
October 18, 2018
When he joined the Ferguson protests against the senseless murder of Mike Brown, DeRay McKesson (@deray) had no idea his life would...
A Lesson In Self Love w/ Vivica A. Fox and Raven Symoné
October 11, 2018
It’s only fitting that after our self-love masterclass with the one-and-only Mikki Taylor that we follow up with two inspiring...
Boo'd Up: Remy Ma and Papoose's Countdown to Baby Mackie
October 4, 2018
Don’t you just love the way Papoose (@PapoosePapoose) loves his wife Remy Ma (@RemyMa)?! The Mackies are back and sharing the love like...
From Self-Care to Slay with Mikki Taylor, Plus Star’s Ryan Destiny
September 28, 2018
Tapping into one’s best self can take some work. Luckily Mikki Taylor (@IAmMikkiTaylor), Essence’s longtime beauty expert, has written a...
Love Is In the Hair: Conversations with Sanaa Lathan and Lynn Whitfield, plus Curly Girl Collective’s Gia Lowe
September 20, 2018
Within Black sisterhood, the relationship with hair is one of our strongest bonds. It’s why Sanaa Lathan (@sanaalathan) took a leap of...
The Black Women Behind LeBron James' New Sneaker
September 13, 2018
Have you ever had a life changing phone call? That’s what Harlem Fashion Row (@hfrmovement) founder Brandice Daniel (@brandicedaniel)...
Lil Rel Howery Hearts Awkward Black Girls
September 6, 2018
Lil Rel Howery’s having a helluva year. Since playing the TSA Agent whose spidey senses saved his best friend in “Get Out”, the stand up...
Bobby Brown and Alicia Etheredge-Brown share the love
August 30, 2018
Before "The Bobby Brown Story" has us all in our feelings, we went straight to the source for the story behind the story of how Bobby...
Mixing Business and Pleasure With Rev Run and Justine Simmons
August 27, 2018
Rev Run (@revrunwisdom) and his wife Justine Simmons’ new Netflix family drama All About The Washingtons is out, and it’s official:...
Triple Threat and Black Rom-Com Bae Taye Diggs Is Here!
August 20, 2018
You know we love to hear from the fellas, and this week one of your favorites is in the house. Taye Diggs (@tayediggs) has mastered it...
Summertime Shine with Tracy G.
August 9, 2018
This week we talk to ESSENCE 2018 Millennial Love Leader and wellness mami, Tracy G (@itstracyg) about all things health and fitness....
Let’s Hear It For Sherri Shepherd’s Powerful Sister Circle
August 2, 2018
If a sister-friend’s love ever got you through the fire, this episode is for YOU! Actress, comedienne and host Sherri Shepherd...
Hey Auntie! Angela Bassett Is Here, Plus 'Blindspotting’s Daveed Diggs & Rafael Casel Came Through
July 26, 2018
Prepare yourself for a moment in Black Hollywood excellence as we share an epic conversation with screen queen Angela Bassett...
Brunch with Bae: We got cozy with Michael B. Jordan at ESSENCE Fest
July 18, 2018
When Michael B. Jordan posted “s/o to the baby oil lady” in the IG caption for his first solo ESSENCE cover, inquiring minds wanted to...
Girl Down! Big Freedia’s Our Guest In New Orleans, Plus The First Purge Cast Is Here!
July 13, 2018
We’re still on a high from our biggest ESSENCE Fest yet and we’re reliving the moment we shared opening for The Read LIVE in New...
We Saw A Ghost In Miami! Yup, Omari Hardwick’s Here!
July 6, 2018
OMG we saw a ghost, ya’ll! That’s right, STARZ’s hit drama Power is back and hotter than ever, so it was only fitting we get caught up...
'Luke Cage' Star Simone Missick Could Teach a Masterclass In Praying and Believing
June 28, 2018
One thing we learned from Simone Missick (@SimoneMissick): She knows how to pray. Back for Luke Cage’s second season kicking more ass...
Matters of the Heart with Mara Brock Akil
June 21, 2018
Yes, Girl jumpstarted summer with a last-minute trip to Miami for the American Black Film Festival (@abff). In between movies and...
We Weren’t Ready! Marlon Wayans Pours Out His Heart and Opens Up About the Realities of Fatherhood
June 14, 2018
Comedian, actor, director and producer Marlon Wayans (@marlonwayans) returns to Yes, Girl! for more unfiltered conversation. He’s...
Boss Moves Brought To You By Mona Scott-Young
May 31, 2018
Multi-millionaire reality TV boss Mona Scott-Young (@monascottyoung) has been quietly building her Monami Entertainment empire for over...
Taraji’s Got A Man At Hoooooome (Encore Episode)
May 17, 2018
In case you guys haven't heard the news, our girl Taraji P. Henson (@TheRealTaraji) got engaged on Mother’s Day. In honor of her big...
Jay Ellis Explains Why Men Really Hate Being Called F*ck Bois
May 11, 2018
Bae is here! Insecure star and new American Black Film Festival host Jay Ellis (@jayrellis) came through to talk all things Beyonce,...
Getting All the Longevity Tea with Our Fave Fabulous Auntie, Vanessa Bell Calloway
May 4, 2018
We’ve loved legendary actress Vanessa Bell Calloway since, like, forever. From Coming to America to What’s Love Got to Do With It?,...
As Free as She Wanna Be: Janelle Monáe
April 26, 2018
“I’m happy to be a Black woman making art, as free as I want to right now.” That’s the space singer and actress Janelle Monáe...
Beychella Hangovers, Woke Notes with Tessa Thompson and ESSENCE President Michelle Ebanks On What's Next
April 19, 2018
In this high season of Black Excellence, we start our episode in acknowledgment and praise for Beyoncé’s salute to HBCU’s greeks and...
A deep dive into why we’re here for Cardi B., plus Erica Ash shares why she’s ready to be a leading lady
April 13, 2018
This week’s tea is piping hot because it’s all about bonafide super star, Cardi B. (@iamcardib). She’s brought a cultural shift with the...
Sonequa Martin-Green boldly takes us to the land of Black girl joy
April 6, 2018
Our obsession with Sonequa Martin-Green (@SonequaMG) began when we fell in love with her character Sasha on The Walking Dead. Now we’re...
Tyler Perry gives a word on faith, fatherhood and acting on your dreams!
March 29, 2018
Faith, family and forgiveness — and very Black — that’s the formula that has made Tyler Perry (@tylerperry) one of the most successful...
Jussie Smollett meets us in Arkansas + Roxanne Shante and Chante Adams on finally telling this hip hop legends story
March 22, 2018
Our podcast cup runneth over this week with three special guests: Jussie Smollett (@jussiesmollett) who, hours after wrapping up a...
**BONUS** She better preach! Why Iyanla Vanzant wants people to stop clinging on to struggle
March 20, 2018
Our Yo-Prah, ESSENCE's Yolanda Sangweni, sits down with spiritual coach and author Iyanla Vanzant to talk about the new season of...
Black Panther’s costume designer Ruth Carter + actress Florence Kasumba take us behind-the-scenes of Wakanda
March 15, 2018
This week, Black Panther hit the billion dollar mark at the box office, and we’re still in Wakanda heaven. If the movie's amazing...
Kym Whitley on the plight of Black female comediennes…and Mo’Nique argument!
March 8, 2018
Everyone’s favorite auntie Kym Whitley (@kymwhitley) drives nearly two hours in LA traffic (thank you, boo!) for an unfiltered chat...
Lena Waithe on how dope it is to be a Black woman in Hollywood right now
March 1, 2018
When ESSENCE Black Women In Hollywood 2018 honoree Lena Waithe (@lenawaithe) says come over when you get to L.A., you take the fastest...
All Rise For Black Panther’s Princess Shuri: It’s Letitia Wright Appreciation Day
February 20, 2018
(Warning: spoiler alert!) Black Panther’s finally (!!!) here and while everyone is everything in Wakanda, Princess Shuri aka Letitia...
You're In The Presence Of 2 Dope Queens
February 15, 2018
We¹re baaaaaaack for season 2! Comedy¹s new royalty 2 Dope Queens Phoebe Robinson (@dopequeenpheebs) and Jessica Williams (@msjwilly)...
Bonus Episode: Why Kandi Burruss is as real as they come
January 23, 2018
Surprise: When Kandi Burruss (@Kandi) said she had a few hours off from her Broadway debut as Mama Morton in 'Chicago,' we said come...
Let the Black Panther countdown begin…we already got our tickets!
January 17, 2018
We see you 2018! There’s already lots to celebrate and we’re just three weeks in. First, we have some news: ESSENCE is now 100-percent...
It’s A Black Girl Magic Explosion: Yvonne Orji and ESSENCE Bawse Vanessa K. DeLuca Are Here!
December 28, 2017
We’re closing out the year celebrating why Black women are so lit (obvi). ESSENCE editor-in-chief Vanessa K. DeLuca (@Vanessa_KDeLuca)...
From Tootie to Regine: Kim Fields gets real about her rise from child star to queen
December 21, 2017
It’s no surprise why ESSENCE named Kim Fields (@KimVFields) memoir, Blessed Life, “one of the best books of 2017.” In the spirit of...
Taraji P. Henson joins us for a Jamaican vacation!
December 14, 2017
“I’m very happy in my personal life.” That’s how Taraji P. Henson (@TherealTaraji) feels right now. Yes, she and her bae are still going...
Symone D. Sanders is breaking 2017 down, for the culture
December 7, 2017
We know and love political strategist and CNN commentator Symone D. Sanders (@symonedsanders) for bringing her one-of-a-kind brand of...
Laughing along with late night’s Robin Thede
November 30, 2017
“No matter what color you are, stay Black.” That’s how Robin Thede (@RobinThede) ends her new weekly late show, The Rundown with Robin...
Why Erykah Badu ain’t afraid of nobody
November 23, 2017
Sisters, how y’all feel? Twenty years ago, Erykah Badu (@fatbellybella) had an epic year: she released Baduizm and Baduizm Live -- which...
"She's Gotta Have It" star DeWanda Wise is our #WCE
November 16, 2017
Can you believe its been 30 years since Spike Lee (@SpikeLee) released his first Spike Lee Joint, She's Gotta Have It?! Now the classic...
Issa Bonus Episode: Keke Palmer pours up a cup of tea
November 14, 2017
And the gag is….actress, singer and songwriter KeKe Palmer (@kekepalmer) thought she was just stopping by to talk about playing April...
We kiss and make up with Insecure's Amanda Seales
November 9, 2017
Comedian and actress Amanda Seales (@amandaseales) loves clapping back (Google her explain White privilege to Caitlyn Jenner.) She even...
Jennifer Hudson gives a word on the art of living your truth!
November 2, 2017
J-HUD is in the house! The Voice’s newest coach comes through with heart-to-heart wisdom on self love, standing in your truth and doing...
Ayesha Curry’s recipe for dream chasing, plus Latham Thomas gives get-your-glow lessons
October 26, 2017
Bust out the sage because this week is all about self care and growth. First up: chef, TV personality, author and NBA wife and mom...
Gabrielle Union on Who Hates Her the Most and Why We Love Her for It (LIVE)
October 19, 2017
Just when we thought we knew everything about Gabrielle Union (@itsgabrielleu) — she’s had nine ESSENCE covers — we fell more in love...
Demetria McKinney on playing her idol Whitney Houston
October 12, 2017
The world caught another glimpse of the former reality star Demetria McKinney when she played Whitney Houston in TV One's "Bobbi...
Tamar Braxton gets real, plus two queens from Queen Sugar are here!
October 5, 2017
Singer and reality TV star Tamar Braxton came to town honey, and you know she came to spill the tea! Braxton discusses her new album...
Empire’s Jussie Smollett is sooo lit, plus creator Lee Daniels has another show up his sleeve and it’s juicy
September 28, 2017
It’s an #EMPIRE lovefest! Jamal Lyons aka friend in our heads, actor and activist JUSSIE SMOLLETT stops by to discuss Twitter clap...
Kim Kimble's Prayer for Your Edges
September 21, 2017
When A-Lister's such as Beyoncé and Mary J. Blige need a game changing look, celebrity hairstylist Kim Kimble swoops in with bundles of...
Celebrity hair stylist Ursula Stephen, plus a champagne fueled Insecure recap
September 14, 2017
Known for giving Rihanna her signature bob and pixie, celebrity hair stylist and salon owner Ursula Stephen dropped by Yes, Girl and...
The Real's Loni Love
September 7, 2017
During our LA trip, comedienne and co-host of hit daytime talk show The Real Loni Love sat down with Cori and Yolanda to chat about her...
Mary J. Blige, Jada Pinkett Smith, Queen Latifah & Friends Get Real About Pushing Through
August 31, 2017
At ESSENCE Festival 2017, Tamron Hall moderated a juicy, once in a lifetime conversation between Mary J.Blige, Queen Latifah, Jada...
Tichina Arnold and Love Talk with Flex & Shanice
August 24, 2017
It’s a TBT special when we talk to Tichina Arnold, who’s been dispensing comic relief on our small screens since Martin, and celebrity...
Marlon Wayans and Essence Atkins
August 17, 2017
Marlon Wayans has been busy. His new Netflix comedy Naked is now streaming and he stars alongside NBC’s new Black family sitcom Marlon...
Tyra Banks and 'Bachelorette' Rachel Lindsay
August 10, 2017
The stars of two of TVs biggest reality shows join the Yes, Girl! sister-circle. First, television producer, businesswoman, actress, and...
Badass Bozoma Saint John
August 3, 2017
The Yes Girl! hosts dig into the latest episode of Insecure, plus they’re talking confidence and career challenges with Uber’s new Chief...
Halle Berry
July 27, 2017
Last spring, Halle Berry damn near broke the internet by posting a pic of herself frolicking in a field of flowers back lit only by the...
Regina Hall (Girls Trip)
July 20, 2017
Everyone’s talking about new movie Girls Trip, so obvi we’re chatting with one of the film’s stars, actress Regina Hall. Regina was all...
Angela Rye (#Woke100) and Candice Benbow (4:43 essayist)
July 13, 2017
Politico and lawyer Angela Rye was featured on the cover of Essence's Woke 100 issue for her smart and peppered analysis of issues...
Iyanla Vanzant (Live at Essence Festival)
July 6, 2017
A year ago, Iyanla Vanzant was a scheduled keynote speaker at Essence Festival. Then the unthinkable happened days before her...
Courtney A. Kemp (Power creator and executive producer) and The Matchmaking Duo
June 29, 2017
Long before Courtney A. Kemp created one of TV’s most addictive series, Power, she was a lowly magazine writer with much bigger...
June Ambrose #RockMom
June 22, 2017
Stylist to the stars June Ambrose took time out of her crammed Hollywood schedule and shared how she juggles red carpets, motherhood,...
Janet Mock (Surpassing Certainty: What My Twenties Taught Me)
June 15, 2017
We’re talking life and love lessons learned from our 20s with journalist, writer, New York Times-bestselling author and transgender...
Tiffany Haddish and Amber Stevens West (The Carmichael Show) and #WokeBaes Greg and Helanah
June 8, 2017
On a day off from taping their hilarious sitcom, The Carmichael Show's Tiffany Haddish and Amber Stevens West walks us through their...
Charlamagne Tha God (LIVE)
June 1, 2017
Love him or hate him, Charlamagne Tha God—radio’s favorite agitator—sits in the hot seat for Yes, Girl’s first live recording at...
Mary J. Blige
May 25, 2017
Fresh off the release of her latest album, "Strength of a Woman," Mary J. Blige checks in with Charli and Yolanda about life after...
Lena Waithe (Master of None) and Gabby & Andrew Wilkes
May 18, 2017
Long before producer-turned-actress Lena Waithe mined her personal coming out story for Master of None’s best episode ever...
Luvvie Ajayi & Abiola Abrams
May 11, 2017
Luvvie Ajayi is not only one of ESSENCE’s 100 Woke Women and featured on the May 2017 cover, she’s a New York Times bestselling author...
Bill Bellamy and Oneika the Traveller
May 4, 2017
After the last 100 days with Trump, we need a good laugh. Thankfully, comic and actor Bill Bellamy (@billbellamy) gives us the levity...
Meagan Good and Devon Franklin
April 27, 2017
Meagan Good and DeVon Franklin are relationship goals for real. We chat with the power couple about how they build each other up by...
Tameka "Tiny" Harris and Daughter Zonnique Open Up
April 20, 2017
Tameka "Tiny" Harris sets the record straight on how she really felt when T.I. called their marriage "a distraction," their impending...
Yvonne Orji (Insecure) and Kel Mitchell & Asia Lee (Game Shakers)
April 13, 2017
Insecure’s breakout star Yvonne Orji takes us on her bumpy journey to Hollywood, which includes a one way bus ticket to NYC (with no...
Danai Gurira (The Walking Dead) and Demetria Lucas D'oyley (A Belle in Brooklyn)
April 6, 2017
The Walking Dead's Danai Gurira is a super busy woman. Between writing stage plays, filming this season's TWD and going off to start...
Angie Nwandu (The Shade Room) and Prentice & Tasha Penny
March 30, 2017
The Shade Room is one our guiltiest pleasures (The New York Times calls it "The Black TMZ") and on this week's episode of Yes, Girl! we...
Sanaa Lathan & Gina Prince-Bythewood (Shots Fired) and The Matchmaking Duo
March 23, 2017
Besties Sanaa Lathan and Gina Prince-Bythewood share the magic inside their real-life bond in Hollywood and discuss their new show,...
Niecy Nash / Beyonce's Dance Captain Ashley Everett
March 16, 2017
Cori Murray and Yolanda Sangweni laugh it up with Niecy Nash, who we’ve adored since her days on Reno 911!, Clean House and Soul Man....
Uzo Aduba / Remy Ma & Papoose
March 9, 2017
Long before actress and activist Uzo Aduba was a two time Emmy award winning star of Orange is the New Black, she was a doubtful young...