AW Confidential: Sharing stories that help us connect and learn from different perspectives.

The topic of sex or sexual health can trigger embarrassment, alarm, or delight. Reactions vary, depending on culture, upbringing, and experiences. Men are perceived to be more confident when talking about it, while women, may prefer, more privacy. However, modern times are changing the landscape and encouraging an open dialogue. We are increasingly, less intimidated to discuss the things that long ago were taboo. Nationally recognized experts such as Dr. Shannon Chavez, a Clinical Psychologist based in Beverly Hills California, who is helping demystify the subject of sexual health. She is using her teachings to encourage an open exchange on all things sexuality. The educator and therapist has been featured in major media platforms including the New York Times, Cosmopolitan, Glamour, Women’s Health, HuffPost, GQ, Men’s Health, and many others. Now, she has partnered with the #1 dating app for Latine singles, Chispa to help couples navigate the sometimes, intimidating topic. Together, they are working on providing a safe and supportive space to have honest conversations about sex.

To learn more about Dr. Shannon Chavez, visit Instagram or www.drshannonchavez.com

Where does the phrase Gaslighting come from? The term derives from a 1940s movie called "Gas Light." The premise involves a husband who distorts his wife's reality to make her feel crazy. Current day, the phrase is being used to describe psychological manipulation. This behavior is damaging, it can trigger ⁠mental⁠ health issues like anxiety and depression. Also, you can be gaslighted not only by a romantic partner but a family member, friend, or boss.

I didn't know any better the first time it happened to me. The term had not been invented for the abusive behavior my boyfriend was exposing me to at the time.

Have you ever been gaslighted? Would you know what it looks like if it happened to you?

In this episode, Host, Yvette Bodden shares a very personal experience with gaslighting, red flags to watch out for, and some helpful tips to protect yourself against this type of abuse.

To learn more about AW, visit www.awakened-woman.com

Every episode of the AW Confidential Podcast is special. In some way, I am left inspired or empowered by each guest. Sasha Merci's interview hit differently because I can see myself in her, as will many others.

As the daughter of Dominican immigrants, raised in New York, I connected with the Comedian-Actress. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have her on our platform.

The Bronx native has used her personal experiences as a 2nd generation Dominican to help our community open dialogue on topics that may have been taboo years ago. Her first love was music but she shifted to an art form that offered her more freedom of expression and creative autonomy. Comedy.

Sasha's credits include El Teteo Parties, the film De Lo Mio, the Fuse series, Share, Like, Dimelo, and collaborations with Bumble, AT&T, Heineken, and others.

Listen as we discuss our Dominican roots including family, the dream, the use of words Hispanic, Latina, Latine, Latinx, El Teteo Parties, and the new film role in Righteous Thieves.

Now, we will see her as "Nadia" in the Lionsgate film, "Righteous Thieves" which premiered in select theatres, On Digital, and On Demand.

To learn more about Sasha, visit Instagram@Sashamerci.

Jaina Lee Ortiz is best known for her roles on ABC's Station 19 and Grey's Anatomy, FOX's Rosewood, USA's Shooter, and the film Girls Trip. On March 10th, audiences will see her in "Righteous Thieves," as, Lucille. More than a tech-savvy badass, she brings explosive energy to the screen. The movie stars a cast of dynamic actors including Lisa Vidal, Sasha Merci, Cam Gigandet ("Twilight"), Danube Hermosillo, and Carlos Miranda.

Every interview is unique in its own way. The individual connection we make with someone sets a tone and dictates the dialogue that can take place between two people. AW had the immense pleasure of sitting down with this Latina powerhouse. She is vibrant, filled with warmth and charisma. Her friendly smile made it easy to engage in conversation.

Jaina is an only child raised in the Bronx, NY by parents who instilled the importance of discipline, respect, honesty, and compassion. It is evident, the actress takes her values wherever she goes, treating others with the same kindness learned while growing up.

I believe whether you are reading, watching, or listening to our interview, you too will sense her genuine disposition.

For more on Jaina Lee Ortiz, visit Instagram, Twitter, or TikTok @jainaleeortiz.

You can find the AW Confidential Podcast on all streaming services and watch it in its entirety on our YouTube channel to enjoy all the side chats during the interview.

Bevy Smith walked away from a successful career in fashion advertising to find her authentic and happiest self. By the age of 55, she was a well-known media celebrity, an Award-Winning Television & Radio Personality, Co-Host of Bravo’s “Fashion Queens,” Host of Sirius XM's, Bevelations on Radio Andy, Ted Talk Speaker, and Bestselling Author of Bevelations: Lessons from a Mutha, Auntie, and Bestie. She has proven that life does not stop at any age. In fact, "It gets greater, later."

AW sat down with the fabulous Bevy to discuss her journey, the pressures of staying young, being a late bloomer, her "Red Sole Proposition," self-love, self-worth, and living her best life. Her bevelations inspire millions all over the world. Hopefully, her story will be a reminder of what can happen when we let go of self-limiting beliefs.

AW is grateful to Bevy for being a guest and sharing her wisdom with us. I'm sure you will be inspired by her story and go write the next chapter of your own.

Watch the interview in its entirety on the AW Confidential YouTube channel and listen on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Anchor Podcasts.

To learn more about Bevy, visit bevysmith.com. You can also find her on Instagram and Twitter as @bevysmith. Listen to Bevelations on Radio Andy, Channel 102 on Monday through Wednesday at 5:00 pm and Fridays at 5:00 pm.