I became a Threads girl in early 2024. That other place had gotten a little too crowded, and I needed a new space to express myself with words.
Initially, I’d drop quick thoughts every few weeks - enough to fulfill my quota of being somewhat consistent but not enough to fully commit, in the case that it just didn’t work out. Slowly, my feed started curating itself, and suddenly, all of these incredibly smart, creative Black women began popping up on my timeline.
Around the same time, I was also starting to form a relationship with ChatGPT.
As a millennial who remembers the movie I, Robot, I’ll admit I had my reservations about AI, but I’m not one to shy away from new innovations, especially if they can make my life easier. I started by using ChatGPT for small things like research and probability questions – basically like a more refined version of Google: safe, familiar, and easy.
Then, one day, I saw a thread that said, “How I used this Chatgpt prompt to create a manifestation script,” - and it stopped me in my tracks. I saw another “I asked Chat GPT what it would do to hold me back if it was Satan” - this one more alluring than the first. Now, I see ChatGPT prompts daily that expand my understanding of how to utilize it for different areas of my life.
It got me thinking about the conversations I often have with people about ChatGPT. Most people, though somewhat intrigued, simply aren’t sure how to use it. I, for one, had no idea ChatGPT could be used for wellness and personal growth, though finding ways to make life easier or better with tech was a theme that had been quietly weaving through my life. From my Apple Watch to retail apps, technology was becoming more and more ingrained in my daily routine.
Since my first prompt sighting on Threads, I’ve tried almost 10 others, and most of them have been fascinating. Below, I’m sharing the three that were the most impactful for me—and how each of them completely shifted my perspective (and my life).
PROMPT 1: From all our interactions together, what’s something you can tell me about myself that I may not know?
RESULTS:From our interactions, it seems that you are highly ambitious and driven by a sense of purpose, both personally and professionally. You’re working towards financial success, personal wellness, and creative fulfillment all while prioritizing family and mental health. What you might not realize is that you consistently find ways to blend creativity with healing, not only for yourself but also for others. This makes you a natural leader in wellness and creativity, guiding others through their own journeys of healing and self-discovery. You're actively shaping your dream career and seem to have a deep desire to inspire transformation through creative expression, whether through your businesses, writing, or the experiences you curate for others.
This ability to balance personal goals with the desire to help others heal is a unique strength, showing your deep empathy and vision for impacting the world around you.
WHAT I LEARNED: The response to this prompt changed how I think.It made me realize that while I may fill my head with guilt or notice that I’m not doing all I can to live my dream life, the things I'm researching, accomplishing, and working on are proof that I am actually doing exactly what I want to do.
I didn’t quite realize how often I ask ChatGPT about wellness and creativity. How much I talk about it, dream about it, and think about it. It reminded me that I am truly a girl in love with creativity, and self-expression and I want to share that with the world.
It was like a reflection back to myself.
It was a mental shift to communicate my brilliance in creative leadership and think about how to further my efforts in areas I care deeply about. Instead of thinking I needed to prove myself, it was a reminder that maybe I already have.
PROMPT 2: Roast my Instagram feed
RESULTS:
- Profile Vibes: You’ve got the classic writer/creative tagline down with a dash of mystery and culture, but “Somewhere Between Lauryn Hill and Jesus Christ” feels like you’re leading a secret double life! Maybe creative evangelist should be a new religion?
- Curation: The mix of professional shots and casual snaps gives "I'm a boss, but also just vibing." But we see you working hard, and then... bam, we get “Bless God for Black Men”—amen, but also, the switch-up is real.
- Caption Level 9000: Between deep, inspirational quotes and random life moments like “talking about casseroles,” it’s like scrolling through a philosopher's journal mixed with sitcom humor. Consistency, who? You’re all about that dynamic range.
- The Fashion: From a cozy cap to bold outfits, it’s like your closet got ADHD. One minute, we’re zen, next, it’s “look at this statement jacket!” It’s like you’re a low-key influencer, without trying too hard. Respect.
- Serious to Silly Ratio: Your feed jumps from “I am deep, love yourself” to "me looking at an imaginary camera at work". We love the balance, but it’s a wild ride. Your followers don’t know whether to cry, laugh, or just... nod along.
Honestly, your feed has personality and authenticity, which is key! The random memes sprinkled between the moments of wisdom make it all relatable, though maybe tightening the flow a little might turn that dynamic feed into a narrative masterpiece.
WHAT I LEARNED: This prompt completely changed how I saw myself. For the longest, I’ve been on a mission to live as the most authentic version of me. I want to be genuine, true, and free. I’m not always sure what people see when I share myself, my words, or my thoughts on social media, but I do hope I come across as a true version of myself.
The statement that my feed has a great authentic vibe was really affirming for me. Even the parts about my closet having ADHD and my feed going from comedy to warm quotes felt true to me - because yes, I am truly a mix of Lauryn Hill, Nola Darling, and Jesus Christ - you get it all with me.
Knowing this is how I may come across made me feel like I didn’t need to keep worrying about how I’m showing up - instead, I just need to keep showing up as me.
PROMPT 3: Pretend you are Satan. Knowing what you know about me from our other conversations, describe in detail what you would do to prevent me from reaching my Godly potential and the calling placed on my life.
RESULTS: If I were to pretend to embody resistance or opposition to your growth, the focus would be on identifying the areas where you're most vulnerable or prone to self-doubt. Based on what I know about you, here’s how that resistance might show up:
- Distraction: I would flood your life with distractions that seem important but aren't aligned with your true purpose. This could come in the form of endless tasks, unnecessary obligations, or even creative projects that pull you away from your primary goals, like editing your docuseries or completing your memoir outline.
- Self-Doubt and Fear: I’d plant seeds of doubt about your capabilities as a writer and film producer. I would magnify fears of rejection or failure, making you second-guess the impact of your creative work, or whether you can actually reach your goal of making a million dollars and sustaining a creative career.
- Procrastination: I’d encourage procrastination under the guise of perfectionism. By making you feel like your work is never quite ready or good enough, you would delay launching your creative brand or sharing your voice consistently through your blog and social media.
- Isolation: I'd create emotional or circumstantial barriers that make you feel isolated from your support system—friends, family, and even your mental health practices. Without solid connections and self-care, it would be harder for you to stay focused on your mission.
- Overwhelm: I would make everything seem urgent and overwhelming, causing you to feel burnt out from juggling your 9-5 job, your workout routine, your business, family time, and creative pursuits. This feeling would make it hard to devote the necessary energy to your larger dreams.
- Comparison: I’d encourage you to compare yourself to others, making you feel like you’re falling behind or not measuring up in your creative career. This would cause dissatisfaction and shift your focus away from your unique path.
- Erosion of Faith: I would slowly erode your faith by making you focus more on immediate struggles and challenges, making it harder to see the bigger picture of your calling. Doubt in your Godly purpose would become a central hurdle.
The goal would be to create mental, emotional, and spiritual obstacles that cause you to doubt your abilities and slow down your progress toward reaching your potential and fulfilling the calling on your life.
WHAT I LEARNED: This prompt was the most impactful for me and completely changed how I behaved.
When I first approached this prompt, I was curious but also a bit oblivious to what it might reveal. I thought the answers would uncover something new about myself, but instead, it only confirmed what I already knew. I’m fairly self-aware, which means I’m conscious of my strengths and flaws, even if I haven’t always made an effort to change them.
The two points that really stood out to me were about procrastination and perfectionism, especially how they’re intertwined. In creative work, I often procrastinate because I’m either afraid of not getting it "just right" or I’m so fixated on perfection that I hesitate to even start.
Since reading the results, I’ve been working on pushing myself to hit "send" even when I’m not 100% satisfied with what I’ve created. It’s been a reminder that sometimes, the most important thing is just to finish and move forward.
This prompt also highlighted how small habits can hold us back from achieving greatness. Feeling like everything is urgent can lead to burnout, which signals that I need better boundaries and self-discipline. Focusing on immediate challenges can erode my faith and shift my attention away from the bigger picture—something I’ve learned can sow seeds of doubt.
Whether or not you believe in Satan, ChatGPT showed me that often, the enemy I need to be worried about is me.
. . .
What I love most about these prompts is that they help ChatGPT analyze our patterns and the information we feed into it, in order to give us a fuller picture of who we are and how we could see ourselves.
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Reset Your Relationship: How To Start 2025 Strong With Your Partner
As the calendar turns and a new year unfolds, many of us are laser-focused on our career goals, fitness resolutions, and vision boards that outline the journey to our best selves. But amidst all the planning and self-improvement, have you made room for another important part of your life? Your relationship.
It's easy for couples to fall into a routine, going through the motions and letting their connection sit on autopilot. While comfort is natural in a long-term relationship, it’s important to remember: that what you don’t nurture, eventually fades. So, why not make 2025 the year you reset your relationship? Here’s how to start the year with a renewed bond, reigniting the spark that brought you together.
Step 1: Schedule Your Reset Meeting
The first step to hitting the reset button is a State of the Union meeting with your partner. This is your chance to take a pulse on the relationship, discuss what's working, and identify areas that need attention. It’s all about creating space to reflect, without distractions.
Grab a pen and paper (or open a shared note on your phone) and come prepared to share your top 2-3 desires for your relationship.
What do you both want to feel more of in 2025? Maybe it’s feeling more appreciated, or perhaps you want to reignite the passion you had when you first started dating. Whatever it is, get clear about it, and make sure both of you are on the same page.
This isn’t just about listing your own wants, it’s also about discussing ways to nurture each other’s needs. Relationship goals should be focused on fostering deeper intimacy, trust, and mutual respect. Use this time to check in, not only with each other but with your individual feelings and expectations. Set the foundation for a fulfilling year ahead.
Step 2: Set A Date (Or Multiple!)
Having the meeting is only the first step. Now, it’s time to take action. One of the simplest ways to breathe new life into a relationship is by reintroducing consistent, intentional time spent together. For many couples, life gets busy, and date nights fall by the wayside. But dating doesn’t stop when you say "I do"—in fact, it’s even more essential.
During your reset meeting, lock in a regular date night that works for both of your schedules. This could be a weekly dinner date or an every-other-week adventure—whatever keeps things fresh. The goal is consistency. It’s easy to push date nights aside when life gets hectic, but if you set a specific date each week or month, you’re making your relationship a priority.
If you’re unsure what to do for your date nights, don’t worry! The key is creating new experiences together. This is what sparks excitement and brings you closer as a couple. Whether it’s cooking a new recipe together, trying a dance class, or exploring a nearby town, it’s about creating shared memories that build your connection.
Step 3: Find an Accountability Partner
Just like you might have a personal trainer to help you crush your fitness goals, an accountability partner for your relationship can do wonders for keeping both of you on track. Consider hiring a marriage coach or therapist—someone who can meet you where you are and guide you in strengthening your relationship.
When selecting a professional, it’s important to choose someone who truly wants the best for your marriage and can provide actionable advice.
Don’t be afraid to set high standards for your relationship, and seek guidance on how to keep it thriving for the long haul. In your reset meeting, discuss your commitment to growth, and be honest about areas where you may need support.
Marriage isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it endeavor—it’s an ongoing process. Regular check-ins with a professional can help keep your relationship in tip-top shape and “divorce-proof” by addressing issues before they become insurmountable.
Step 4: Try Something New Together
Stale routines can easily make a relationship feel monotonous. Spice things up by trying something new! Couples that explore new activities and create new memories together have stronger, more fulfilling bonds.
My husband and I host one of the top luxury marriage retreats, A Weekend For Love, designed to help couples experience new things together. From couples' workshops to outdoor adventures, the retreat provides a platform to rediscover each other and reconnect on a deeper level.
The element of surprise can reignite your connection. It’s exciting, fresh, and shows your partner that you’re committed to growing together. This doesn’t have to be a huge commitment—it could be as simple as trying a new hobby or planning an impromptu weekend getaway.
Your Relationship Should Be A Priority
As you start the year with personal goals in mind, don’t forget the importance of nurturing your relationship. It’s easy to get caught up in work, fitness, and family obligations, but your bond with your partner deserves to be at the top of your list. Resetting your relationship offers an opportunity to reignite that spark and remind each other why you fell in love in the first place.
In 2025, make a commitment to prioritize your partnership, to nurture it daily, and to invest in its growth. Take time to celebrate each other’s victories, support one another’s dreams, and build a foundation of love and respect. When you start the year with a clear focus on your relationship, you’re setting it up for success.
So, before you start mapping out your new workout plan or work goals, do yourself a favor: put your relationship at the top of that list. Your love story deserves a fresh start, too.
Happy New Year, and here’s to a love-filled 2025!
Couples, if you are ready to do the work and invest in your relationship register for A Weekend For Love: Heart Retreat Feb 21-23, 2025.
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10 Black-Owned Wineries, Bars, And Breweries To Visit Across The U.S.
In the booming industry of wine, beer, and spirits, it’s always exciting to come across Black-owned businesses that we can support. The spirits industry has long been a space where Black entrepreneurs have faced significant barriers, from accessing capital to breaking into predominantly white-dominated networks.
I didn’t enjoy beer until I was in my mid-20s, partially due to the fact that it didn’t seem to be marketed toward me. According to a 2021 report from the Brewers Association, less than 1% of breweries in the U.S. are Black-owned, and Black winemakers make up an estimated 0.1% of winemakers nationwide. Despite these challenges, Black-owned wineries, breweries, and bars are still carving out their place in the industry.
By visiting and supporting Black-owned establishments, you’re not only indulging in world-class drinks but also contributing to a movement of equity and inclusion. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or craft beer lover, these businesses celebrate culture, tell stories, and foster spaces where everyone feels welcome.
The more we pour into these Black-owned breweries, bars, and wineries, the more doors we will see open for others to enter the beer, wine, and spirits industries.
There’s nothing I enjoy more than having a sip of wine surrounded by people who look like me in an establishment owned by someone who also looks like me. From lively bars to innovative breweries and boutique wineries, here are 10 Black-owned spots across the country where you can raise a glass to diversity and excellence. Cheers!
1.Harlem Hops - New York, N.Y.
Harlem Hops is more than just a craft beer bar—it’s a celebration of community and culture. Co-founded by three HBCU graduates, this gem focuses on showcasing beers from local and independent breweries, including offerings from Black brewers. When it opened in the summer of 2018, Harlem Hops became the first 100% African American-owned NYC local craft beer bar in Manhattan.
With its cozy vibe, rotating tap list, and tasty bites, Harlem Hops is the perfect spot to discover your new favorite brew while supporting a mission of inclusivity in the craft beer scene. Don’t miss their delicious beer pairings and community-driven events.
2.Brown Estate - Napa Valley, Calif.
Brown Estate is Napa Valley’s first and only Black-owned estate winery. Established in 1996, the family-owned winery is known for its exceptional Zinfandels and refined vineyard experiences. Beyond the Zinfandels, Brown Estate also crafts a variety of other wines to fit everyone’s preferences, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Petite Sirah. If you can’t make it to the winery, you can also enjoy an intimate tasting experience at their downtown Napa tasting room, which opened in 2017. With stunning views and award-winning wines, Brown Estate is a must for wine lovers visiting Napa.
3.Abbey Creek Vineyard - North Plains, OR
Facebook/AbbeyCreekVineyard
What do you get when you merge a love for wine with an appreciation for Hip Hop and Culture? You get Abbey Creek Vineyard in North Plains, Oregon. Loved by both locals and visitors, this community spot offers a unique wine experience while embodying the saying “Hip-Hop, wine, and chill." Owner Bertony Faustin became Oregon’s first Black winemaker when he founded Abbey Creek Vineyard. Faustin’s wines, dubbed “The Creole Collection,” bring a unique cultural perspective to Oregon’s wine industry. Visitors can enjoy tastings at the vineyard’s wine bar, known as “The Crick,” for an intimate experience that’s all about community.
4.Two Locals Brewing Co. - Philadelphia
Business is always better when it’s a family affair. Two Locals Brewing is Philadelphia's first Black-owned brewery, founded by brothers Richard and Mengistu Koilor. The brewery officially opened its doors in early 2024 in the University City neighborhood after years of planning.
The brothers, West Philadelphia natives, started brewing beer as a hobby in 2016 and began planning their expansion while noticing the lack of Black representation in the brewing industry.
Aside from serving up tasty brews, the brothers offer Liberian food, a homage to where Mengistu was born. Throughout the month, guests can pop in for some improv or a comedy night event while enjoying a cold one.
5.House of Pure Vin - Detroit
Located in the heart of downtown Detroit, House of Pure Vin is a Black-owned wine bar and retail shop. It features an impressive selection of global wines, including many from Black winemakers. One highlight is their focus on boutique and hard-to-find labels, offering guests the opportunity to discover unique flavors they won’t see on typical store shelves.
The space frequently hosts events such as wine education classes, collaborations with local chefs, and themed wine nights, giving customers plenty of reasons to pop by throughout the week. Whether you’re shopping for a bottle, enjoying a tasting flight, or attending one of their vibrant events, House of Pure Vin is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to elevate their wine experience while supporting a Black-owned business.
6.LaShellé Wines - Woodinville, WA
LaShellé Wines, located in Woodinville, Washington, stands out as one of the region’s few Black- and female-owned wineries. Founded by Nicole Camp, the winery reflects her passion for winemaking, which she developed through her formal training at the Northwest Wine Academy. Opened in 2021, LaShellé Wines is known for its range of refreshing white and red wines and offering a welcoming and family-friendly environment. On any given day, you can expect to pop in and see owner Nicole involved in the day-to-day functioning—from destemming grapes to hosting guests in the tasting room.
7.Diamond Farm Winery and Brewery - Nokesville, Va.
Instagram/DiamondFarmWinery
This lovely venue was the result of hard work and a change of plans. Diamond Farm Winery & Brewery is an exciting new Black-owned establishment that blends rustic charm with modern sophistication. Owners Alice and Glenn Bertrand, Sr. originally purchased the property to serve as their retirement home but decided to go in a different direction after seeing the historic barn on the land.
Situated on a picturesque farm, the venue offers a serene setting with features like a remodeled historic farmhouse and a romantic heart-shaped pond. While their tasting room is slated to open this spring, the winery is already a sought-after event space, hosting weddings, corporate gatherings, and private celebrations. The venue is rolling out over three phases, so expect all aspects to be fully functioning later this year.
8.Thurst Lounge - Washington D.C.
Thurst Lounge is the first Black-owned LGBTQIA+ bar and lounge in Washington, D.C. Located in the historic U Street corridor, this bar serves as a much-needed inclusive space for the Black LGBTQIA+ community residing in the city. The lounge offers an intimate setting for socializing, complete with carefully curated cocktails and a stylish ambiance that’s perfect for linking with the crew.
Beyond its role as a nightlife destination, Thurst Lounge aims to foster a supportive environment for community connections and cultural celebration.
9.Seven Springs Farm and Vineyard - Norlina, N.C.
Seven Springs Farms and Vineyards is a Black-owned vineyard established by Preston Williams and his family, and it sits on a 140-acre property featuring seven natural springs, providing a picturesque setting for wine tasting and events. The vineyard specializes in muscadine grapes but also grows Merlot, Cabernet, and Chardonnay varieties. Visitors can enjoy tastings in the cozy tasting room, participate in seasonal grape-picking events, or even book a stay at their on-site Airbnb for a more immersive experience. This family-owned space is the perfect location for an outing with the girls or a group event.
10.For The Culture Brewing - Houston
The name says it all with this one. For The Culture Brewing is a craft beer brand focused on creating an inclusive and vibrant space for beer lovers. Holding the title of being H-Town’s first Black-owned brewery, owners Jonathan Brown and Carl Roaches Jr. began working on this brand after realizing that there weren’t many brands marketing to Black Men who like to drink beer.
The brewery aims to cater to a wide range of tastes, offering a variety of beer styles such as tropical IPAs, rice lagers, pale ales, and dry stouts.
While still in the process of opening its own dedicated taproom, the brewery often collaborates with other local businesses, including Ovinnik Brewing, through a unique cooperative model called Craft Culture X. This collaboration has allowed them to share resources and brewing equipment while planning events and developing new beer recipes.
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