On this episode of Cocoa Mode, Shawna Renee talks to Chandria Jackson-Saunders, DC Public School Psychologist, the affects of tragedies like the one in Newtown Connecticut and how to help them process the many emotions that are sure to rise as a result.  We  also continue our discussion on mental health and violence in American culture.

You can learn more about Bassey’s non-profit on www.thesiweproject.org.

In his new film, Wolf, filmmaker Yake pulls no punches in his depiction of the emotional effects of sexual abuse in the Black church among the victims, congregations and the community at large.  He talks about why he chose to take on such a controversial topic and why he believes more black filmmakers should do the same.

Author, Iyanla Vanzant stops by the Lioness’ Den to talk about her new show “Fix My Life” on the OWN Network.   She sheds some light on why women often find themselves in physically and emotionally abusive relationships.

With the recent news of Evelyn Lozada and Chad Johnson’s domestic dispute and Rihanna’s comments regarding her concern for Chris Brown’s mental well-being,  I wonder if now is the time to re-evaluate how we discuss Domestic Violence.  Are we missing an opportunity to teach girls/women how to handle conflict without lashing out?  Is it time that we start showing the men, many of them victims of violence themselves, a bit more compassion?  We did DEEP this week to find out what’s really behind the beatings.

I discovered Lauren Von Der Pool a few months ago while researching diet tips for vegetarian athletes.  Lauren, who was just named one of Essence Magazine’s Young, Gifted and Black women under 35, is the personal chef to Venus and Serena Williams.   As fantastic and (F.A.B ulous) as her life is today, it pales in comparison to her incredibly inspiring story of resilience and perseverance.  After spending the hour with her, Lauren Von Der Pool has earned a top spot on the Green Lioness’ list of S-HEROs.

To learn more about Lauren, visit her website:  www.vonderpoolgourmet.com

Tracy pulls no punches when it comes to explaining why so many women, who want to be married, are not.

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Until next week….

Rapper, actor and author, Common talks to Shawna Renee about his new book “One Day It Will All Make Sense.

Demetria L. Lucas, author of A Belle in Brooklyn: Your Go-to Girl for Advice on Living Your Best Single Life and relationship editor at Essence Magazine talks about love, relationships and entrepreneurship and how she manages to balance it all. 

For more information on Demetria, visit her blog: A Belle in Brooklyn

According to a recent studyconducted by Prudential Financial Services, African Americans don’t save as much as other races.  I invited our resident financial guru, Gail Perry Mason to discuss why she thinks this is and more importantly share her tips on how to save money during these tough financial times.

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