Homeschooling My Four Kids Inspired Me To Create A 6-Figure Feminine Revolution
As Told To is a recurring segment on xoNecole where real women are given a platform to tell their stories in first-person narrative as told to a writer.
This is Yahya Smith's story, as told to Charmin Michelle.
Women, it's our time—our time to take care of ourselves and to take care of other women, wholeheartedly.
Growing up, I never considered any other career option outside of entrepreneurship. And because my parents were serial entrepreneurs, it didn't even occur to me that working for someone was the norm until I got to college and noticed everyone else's goals were a lot different from mine.
I became a mom early on, but I always knew that I didn't want my son to be raised by teachers and daycare workers. I also knew I needed to be able to feed him, too. I worked a traditional job for the first year of his life and while I was able to climb fast in the company, it just wasn't enough for me. I felt a pull toward family life and so I answered it. I got married at 23 and one of my "must-haves" (for agreeing to marry him, lol) was being able to stay home and raise our family.
Like many SAHMs, I quickly realized that housework and babies 24/7 would drive me crazy if I didn't have an outlet for things that were just for me.
So, I started a blog.
I was flowing in marriage and motherhood easily, but I saw a lot of other women having a hard time. I wanted to share what was working for me. My marriage and relationship was easy, creating systems in my home was easy, building a business based on what I knew was coming naturally. I even had time to grow a backyard garden, give birth at home, homeschool my children, and incorporate regular me-time.
Photo Courtesy of Yahya Smith
I was living free, systematically, and I knew that other women wanted to be free to do the same.
That was the beginning of Feminine Success.
We're a consulting and life coaching brand created to give high-performing women the kind of support they need to be great in the areas that matter to them without burning out. We position femininity as the most practical and dynamic tool to have holistic success from the inside out, with grace and ease.
Success for women is usually different than success for men yet we've been taught to measure success with a man's ruler, so we settle for pieces of success rather than having the whole thing. We choose to describe the kind of woman who shows up in the world on purpose. She's not hoping to stumble upon her best life. She's curating it in every way.
I grew up with a unique mix of New Orleans creole culture and Alabama red clay, so I have a steady love for the simplicity of country life and an equal amount of love for the pulse of the city.
I'm the oldest of three girls, and I've always been the caretaker. My parents were young, entrepreneurial, and doing well financially, so I got to witness first-generation "rich". That exposure really shaped my ideas of success, as I learned early how you could have all of the trappings of success and still not feel successful. Who shows us how to have it all without doing it all and being it all? Who shows us how to have healthy families, loving marriages, and a clear heart while leaving a legacy of financial and social impact? When you get everything you ever wanted, how will you handle it?
When I began homeschooling, I had to adjust and make room for it in my family's lives. On an average day, I wake up at 5 a.m. and have two hours of me-time before my children wake up. My husband is up at 4 a.m., so he usually has a cup of tea waiting for me. I go through my morning routine—I like the Miracle Morning method—have a quick team update, and get breakfast started. If I'm really on time, I throw in a load of laundry because, 6 people. We homeschool 4 hours a day and my husband and I alternate days and subjects. I start work in my business around 1 and work until 3. 3-8:30 is family time.
And this is generally how our days run.
What I love the most is I get to build my business around my life. Most of our content is family-centered and is created from our actual lives. My husband is a photographer/videographer by profession so we're constantly documenting our day-to-day and that is the essence of our business. It all works beautifully. This comes from an understanding that it's harder to hurdle anything alone. Because I don't believe in unnecessarily stressing myself, I like to preserve my energy for the good stuff. So, I get a good amount of help.
I think that every woman needs reciprocity because we give so much, but it's up to us to create that kind of culture in our lives.
Community care curbs burnout.
My favorite self-care tactic is taking naps. They are so important, I don't believe in sacrificing sleep for success. For those times that naps don't work, I schedule weekend hotel stays and acupuncture appointments. I have an amazing naturopathic doctor who is also a sister and she gets my whole life. I take self-care seriously, so I try to make sure to integrate it for the women I coach because we all know what usually happens when you plan time away: everything but time away.
Take care of yourselves, too. We need it.
Ladies, what I'm saying is, it is so, so, so, important for you to build your life how you want it from the beginning. If freedom is what you want, build out your life and business for freedom. Don't go into entrepreneurship saying, "one day" because much like relationships, how it starts is how it ends. Have boundaries with your business so you know when to say "yes" and "no". Value Relationships. Focus on how you make people feel, and know the value of that. Value yourself highly, what you bring to the table, and how you present it, is significant.
Success, to me, is what you create your life to be. Like, my ideal day is me in the kitchen, baking bread and cakes and preserves from scratch, my team is running my business operations, my husband is playing some fire tunes and grilling up some goodness, my clients are winning on repeat, and my children are laughing in the background. And what I love most is that I can be anywhere in the world and have all of that.
Femininity has helped me flow with the ups and downs that come with making the radical decision to be free—as a mom, as a business woman, and as a creator.
There's power in who we are as women.
It's up to us to tap into it.
To find out how you can become Yahya's client, you can apply on her website. Also, you can follow her on Instagram for her latest tips on balancing your life.
If you have a story you'd like to share, but aren't sure about how to put it into words, contact us at submissions@xonecole.com with the subject "As Told To" for your story to be featured.
Featured image courtesy of Amiri Isreal
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Charmin Michelle is a southern native and creative spirit who works as a content marketer and events manager in Chicago. She enjoys traveling, #SummertimeChi, and the journey of mastering womanhood. Connect with her on Instagram @charminmichelle.
There’s just something about HBCU Homecoming that just hits different. Whether it’s your first time stepping onto the yard since graduation or you’re a regular at every Homecoming tailgate, HBCU pride is undeniable. It’s a vibrant celebration that unites the legacy of excellence and tradition with the energy and resilience of Black culture.
The experience goes beyond a typical college reunion; HBCU Homecoming is a family reunion, a fashion show, a cultural festival, and a week-long turn-up that embodies what it means to be unapologetically Black and educated. For HBCU alumni, the journey back to the yard each year is rooted in a love and pride that’s hard to put into words but impossible to deny.
From statement pieces to tech must-haves, every item represents the intersection of Black pride and HBCU love, ensuring that you show up to the yard in style and with intention. So whether you’re repping your alma mater for the first time since graduation or looking for fresh pieces to express your HBCU pride, these essentials will have you standing out, because, at HBCU Homecoming, it’s not just about showing up—it’s about showing out.
Thread Goals
diarrablu Jant Pants in Alia Noir
High-waisted, wide-legged, and ready to shut down the yard, the Jant Pants by diarrablu bring a whole new meaning to campus chic. Handcrafted in Dakar, Senegal, these free-flowing jacquard pants are perfect for stepping onto the yard with style and ease—making them a must-have for any HBCU alum’s closet.
Silver & Riley Convertible Executive Leather Bag Classic Size in Olive
This all-in-one luxury bag isn’t a bestseller for nothing. The Silver & Riley essential is made of Italian calfskin leather and thoughtfully designed, as it can be worn in four different ways: a shoulder bag, crossbody, a top handle, and a backpack. Chic and elegant, the Convertible Executive Leather bag is “the bag that every woman needs in her collection.”
Renowned Women's Intuition Cotton Graphic T-Shirt
Renowned
Renowned’s Women’s Intuition Cotton Graphic T-shirt features a bold graphic print inspired by the power and essence of women’s intuition. With its striking design, this all-cotton tee is a vibrant thing, making it a statement piece that celebrates feminine energy.
Mifland Million M Mesh Crop Shirt
Talk about bold, the Million M Mesh Crop Shirt combines edgy style with comfort, featuring Mifland’s signature print on a semi-see-through mesh fabric. Show up and show out in sophisticated flair.
HBCU Love FUBU
Melanin Is Life Melanated & Educated - I Love My HBCU Hoodie
Show off your HBCU love with this piece that represents everything you gained from your alma mater: a top-tier education, a community that lifts you up, and a deep sense of esteem for yourself and your culture. Wear it loud and proud, because being melanated and educated isn’t just a flex—it’s a legacy.
HBCU Culture Spelmanite Sweatshirt in Navy
Spelmanites, rep your Spelman pride with this unisex crewneck sweatshirt, designed for ultimate comfort and a relaxed fit. Made from a cozy cotton/polyester blend, this classic sweatshirt is as durable as it is stylish—making it an ideal piece for any Spelmanite showing love for their alma mater.
HBCU Culture Howard Is The Culture T-Shirt
Rock the ultimate flex by showcasing your Howard U love with HBCU Culture’s Howard Is The Culture t-shirt. This unisex tee offers a comfortable, relaxed fit that’s perfect for celebrating your HBCU spirit without sacrificing style or comfort.
DungeonForward FAMU - Strike Bucket - Reversible
DungeonForward’s Strike Bucket Hat brings versatility and style to the FAMU Crown collection with its reversible design, giving you two looks in one. Featuring a sleek black snakeskin-embossed brim lining and a bold outline Rattler emblem, this hat is all about repping your Rattler pride in style.
DungeonForward Savannah State University - HBCU Hat - TheYard
The Savannah State University HBCU Hat by DungeonForward is more than just a hat—it’s a symbol of Tiger pride and a nod to the culture. Perfect for gamedays, tailgates, or just showing off your HBCU love, this hat lets you carry a piece of the yard wherever you go.
Tech the Halls
Anker iPhone 16 Portable Charger, Nano Power Bank
Stay charged up with the Anker Nano Power Bank, which features dual USB-C ports, a foldable connector, and a compact design, making it perfect for those HBCU tailgates and late-night parties you pull up to.
Drip Check
Wisdom Frame 14 Square Sunglasses
Elevate your look with these angular square-frame sunglasses by Wisdom, bringing an ultramodern edge to any outfit. The sleek design makes them perfect for blocking out the haters while you stunt on the yard.
Coco and Breezy Eyewear Fortune in Gray Turquoise
The Fortune Glasses in Grey Turquoise is a bold statement piece to any Homecoming weekend ‘fit that “embody our fearless and outspoken DNA.” With their color and edgy design, these frames by Coco and Breezy are perfect for anyone looking to stand out and express their unapologetic confidence.
Howard U Lapel Pin
Rep your Bison pride wherever you go with this Howard U Lapel Pin from Pretty AmbVision. Whether adding it to your jacket, shirt, or bag, this pin is the perfect way to showcase your love for your alma mater while rocking your HBCU love with honor and distinction.
Mifland Standard Rucksack Mini
The Standard Rucksack is designed to evolve like that HBCU pride—getting richer, bolder, and better with time. Durable, stylish, and built to last, this Rucksack by Mifland is a timeless piece equipped with versatile carrying options and fully adjustable back straps for ultimate comfort.
Stay Fresh, Stay Blessed
Slip Pure Silk Sleep Mask in Pink
Keeping it cute starts with beauty sleep. This luxurious silk mask is an essential for a reason. If protecting your skin and waking up refreshed is your priority, look no further than this Homecoming essential.
Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier Lemon Lime - Hydration Powder Packets
Stay hydrated and energized throughout Homecoming weekend with this Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier in Lemon Lime. Just add a packet to your water bottle, and bless your body with 2-3 times more hydration than water with every packet. Because staying hydrated is the key to popping up and showing out all weekend long!
Loop Experience Plus Earplugs High Fidelity Hearing Protection
Designed for your hearing protection, these sleek earplugs reduce noise without compromising sound quality—perfect for enjoying the band’s halftime show, late-night parties, and DJ sets. Whether you’re front row at the step show or hitting the yard, your ears deserve to be protected in style!
Black Girl Magic Glass Cup
Sip in style and celebrate your melanin with the Black Girl Magic Glass Cup. Perfect for morning coffee, your favorite iced drink, or showing off your HBCU pride on the yard—this cup is all about keeping it cute while radiating your endless supply of Black Girl Magic.
Glow Up & Show Out
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
What Homecoming weekend can be complete without an assist from this beauty find? Formulated to blend seamlessly into melanin-rich skin (no white-cast), protect your glow while you turn up with the Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30.
Sienna Naturals Issa Rae's Wash Day Ritual Set
Issa Rae’s Wash Day Ritual Set from Sienna Naturals includes the H.A.PI. Shampoo, the Plant Power Repair Mask, Dew Magic, and Lock and Seal to get your crown right. Whether you’re repping your coils or rocking a new color on the yard, these products restore and nourish your strands, keeping your hair healthy, strong, and Homecoming-ready!
54 Thrones Ivorian Cocoa + Ghanaian Coconut Beauty Butter
Stay glowing from the tailgate to the after-party with the 54 Thrones Ivorian Cocoa + Ghanaian Coconut Beauty Butter. Infused with African-sourced ingredients, this rich, multi-purpose butter is the answer to keeping your skin soft and radiant through all the festivities all Homecoming long.
Saie Glossybounce Hydrating Lip Oil
Keep your lips looking luscious and nourished with the Saie Glossybounce Hydrating Lip Oil. Perfect for adding an extra pop to your pout before hitting the yard or freshening up between events, this lip oil is a beauty essential for staying camera-ready all weekend.
Join us in celebrating HBCU excellence! Check out our Best In Class hub for inspiring stories, empowering resources, and everything you need to embrace the HBCU experience.
Featured image by Visual Vic/Getty Images
Ananda Lewis Clarifies Why She Didn't Get A Mastectomy & Says She's Doing 'Better' After Stage IV Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Former MTV VJ Ananda Lewis received a lot of backlash from online critics after sharing she decided to forgo a double mastectomy. But there's more to the story.
Ananda was diagnosed with stage III breast cancer in 2019, and during a recent round table discussion with CNN's Stephanie Elam and Sara Sidner, she revealed that she decided not to get a double mastectomy and, now, she has stage IV cancer.
Following that interview, she clarified why she did not get the surgery. “The circumstances were not conducive to surgery because my tumor wasn’t aggressively growing at the time, and then COVID hit,” Ananda told The Epoch Times.
She opted for a cryoablation treatment instead, which uses extreme cold to destroy the cancer cells.
Another thing the 51-year-old wanted to clarify was whether she was dying. She said she is not. “Nothing happened. Today, I am fantastic. I may have felt like I was dying in February, but I’m not dying, and I’m definitely doing better than I was last October,” she said.
She is focused on taking care of herself and getting a "good 20 more years out of this body." She follows a keto diet and avoids alcohol, white flour and white sugar.
During the CNN roundtable discussion, the mother of one shared that she had an integrative approach to her treatment, which included traditional medicine and homeopathy methods such as red light therapy.
“My plan at first was to get out excessive toxins in my body. I felt like my body is intelligent, I know that to be true. Our bodies are brilliantly made,” she said.
“I decided to keep my tumor and try to work it out of my body a different way,” she continued. “Looking back on that, I go, ‘You know what? Maybe I should have.’
Ananda also admitted that she wasn't prioritizing early detection, such as getting mammograms. The former talk show host's mom also had breast cancer and chose to go the conventional route, which influenced her to go a non-traditional route.
As a content creator, Ananda uses her social media to inform others on the things she's learned about obtaining good health such as toxic items to through out of your pantry and the many benefits of water.
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Feature image by Paul Archuleta/Getty Images