The Exchange

a hybrid conversation

The Exchange is a monthly recurring hybrid event where we meet to exchange ideas, information, resources, and support! We start the conversation and help you find community around a variety of topics important to ALL GIRLS.

The Exchange

a hybrid conversation

Monthly
on The 1st tuesday
6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

In-Person

Phoenix House Brooklyn
Community Recovery Center
20 New York Avenue
Brooklyn, NY, 11216

Virtually via Zoom

Meeting ID: 846 1003 8056
Passcode: ExChange

Past Exchange Topics

1. Effective Communication - October 18th, 2022

  • Analyzed ineffective communication habits and shared tips for enhancing verbal communication skills. The session stressed the importance of aligning words with body language, the power of active listening, and the significance of considering your audience's perspective.

  • Shining a Light On: Wendy Truitt, author of "Color Your Recovery Beautiful with Slogans", adds vibrancy to the recovery journey with her book, available at Amazon

2. Living Single - November 1st, 2022

  • Explored the nuances of living single, from the freedom it offers to the challenges of solitude. It highlighted the journey of self-discovery and the strength found in independence.

  • Shining a Light On: Zelda Riddick, owner and creator of "Zel Signatures", offering unique baby blankets. For purchases, visit Zelda's website

3. To Debt or Not To Debt - November 8th, 2022

  • Discussed strategies for achieving financial freedom, managing debt, and making informed spending decisions. The session underscored the importance of financial planning and awareness.

  • Shining a Light On: Donna Gibson of "Natty's Jewelry Box" (NJB) for handcrafted jewelry pieces. Follow her on Instagram @Shop_NJB

4. What Are You Dreaming Of? - November 15th, 2022

  • Encouraged participants to dream big and plant seeds for their future achievements. The session emphasized the importance of self-belief and taking actionable steps towards realizing dreams.

  • Shining a Light On: Sunflower Community Development Project & Friends' Khalilah D, hosting the "Women's Day" event for community unity and empowerment at Ebenezer Baptist Church.

5. A Breath of Poetry w/Alexzenia - November 22nd, 2022

  • Delved into the transformative power of poetry as a means of self-expression and healing. Participants were encouraged to engage in a personal poetry writing activity.

  • Shining a Light On: Alexzenia, founder of The Poets List, and author. Her work fosters a vibrant poetry community. Support and connect at The Poets List

6. The Crown - November 29th, 2022

  • Celebrated natural hair and the cultural significance behind it while discussing the CROWN Act's impact. The session promoted self-love and the embracing of one's unique hair journey.

  • Shining a Light On: Takiyah Jerome, aka The Headwrap Queen, creator of "Fashions by TJ", celebrates Afrocentric beauty through fashion. Discover her collection on www.fashionsbytj.com

7. Sisterhood - December 6th, 2022

  • Highlighted the strength and support found in sisterhood, exploring how these relationships foster a sense of belonging and empowerment.

  • Shining a Light On: Nicole Williams, LCSW, CPC, hosts the Transformational Women's Coaching Group, fostering deep connections and growth.

8. Soul Care - December 13th, 2022

  • Focused on nurturing the soul through self-care practices, emphasizing the importance of inner peace, forgiveness, and mindful living for holistic wellness.

  • Shining a Light On: Vallori Thomas, Amazon #1 Best-Selling author of "Possibilitology", inspires readers to live amazingly through self-discovery and personal growth. Visit ValloriThomas.com for more.

9. How Can We Support You? - December 20th, 2022

  • Opened a discussion on support systems and self-care, providing resources for mental health and wellness. The session underlined the strength in asking for help and the resources available for support.

  • Shining a Light On: Atiya Bey, contributing author of "Cards of Life: Volume 1 - Finding Your Winning Hand", shares narratives of resilience and empowerment. Contact Atiya for your copy.

10. Who Are You Choosing to Be in 2023? - December 27th, 2022

  • Encouraged reflection on personal growth and the aspirations for the new year, focusing on the qualities and attitudes to cultivate for a fulfilling life.

  • Shining a Light On: Community encouragement to reflect and choose qualities that align with personal aspirations and growth.

11. Meditation - January 10th, 2023

  • Explored the benefits of meditation on mental, emotional, and physical health, encouraging participants to incorporate meditation into their daily routines for improved wellbeing.

  • Shining a Light On: Serene Howard, creator of "Plateanum Punch", offers healthy iced tea alternatives for natural body healing and hydration. Connect on Instagram at Plateanum Punch.

12. Boundaries - January 17th, 2023

  • Discussed the importance of establishing and maintaining boundaries for personal peace and respect in various relationships.

  • Shining a Light On: Bernie, known as DJ Sista Love, brings joy through music. Book her for an event and enjoy a blend of soulful tunes. Contact details available for bookings.

13. The Year of Yes - January 24th, 2023

  • Inspired by Shonda Rhimes' journey of self-discovery through saying "yes", this session encouraged participants to step out of their comfort zones and embrace new opportunities.

  • Shining a Light On: Shonda Rhimes, celebrated for her transformative journey documented in "The Year of Yes", encourages embracing life's opportunities.

14. I AM - January 31st, 2023

  • Focused on the power of affirmations and self-identity, encouraging participants to define themselves positively and manifest their desires through the power of "I AM".

  • Shining a Light On: Personal empowerment through the acknowledgment and affirmation of one's inherent worth and capabilities.

15. Frientimacy - February 7th, 2023

  • Explored the depth and significance of friendship intimacy, discussing how positive, consistent, and vulnerable interactions strengthen bonds.

  • Shining a Light On: Building deeper and more meaningful connections through understanding and nurturing the elements of frientimacy.

16. Relocating - February 14th, 2023

  • Discussed the challenges and rewards of relocating, from adapting to new environments to discovering personal resilience and independence.

  • Shining a Light On: Emara Grainger, a fitness trainer and founder of Endurance by E, encourages exploration and growth through movement and connection at her Dance Soul Session.

17. Skin Care - February 21st, 2023

  • Highlighted the importance of tailored skincare routines, emphasizing the role of nutrition, lifestyle, and proper skincare products in maintaining healthy skin.

  • Shining a Light On: Margaret Walker, an Independent Beauty Consultant for Mary Kay, shares insights on skin health and beauty. Connect for personalized skincare advice and products.

18. Skincare w/ Chadina Blue - February 28th, 2023

  • Addressed skincare through the ages and the importance of adopting practices that support skin health, featuring treatments and routines for mature skin.

  • Shining a Light On: Chadina Blue, Licensed Esthetician and CEO of Juskin, offers personalized skincare services. Book a session to enhance your skincare routine.

19. Bucket List - March 7th, 2023

  • Inspired participants to create and pursue their bucket list items, emphasizing the joy and fulfillment in achieving personal dreams and experiences.

  • Shining a Light On: Encouragement for individuals to explore and realize their dreams, emphasizing that it's never too late to pursue what brings joy and fulfillment.

20. What Are You Doing for Fun? - March 14th, 2023

  • Explored the importance of incorporating play and fun into adult life, highlighting activities that boost physical, mental, and social health.

  • Shining a Light On: Nicole Williams, LCSW, CPC, invites you to the Transformational Women's Coaching Group for an intimate setting of change and new possibilities.

21. Spiritually Refreshed - April 11th, 2023

  • Encouraged finding new ways to rejuvenate one's spiritual practice, from retreats to daily rituals, emphasizing the role of spirituality in overall wellbeing.

  • Shining a Light On: Evelyn Jimenez, creator of Spirit in Motion, crafts unique, hand-made jewelry inspired by our spiritual journey. Each piece comes with a prayer, offering style with purpose.

22. BNew - April 18th, 2023

  • Focused on embracing new beginnings and the courage to try new things. It offered tips for a healthy lifestyle and mindset shift towards growth and rejuvenation.

  • Shining a Light On: Cherise Canton, also known as Coach Cee, a Certified Health and Wellness Coach, advocates for a holistic approach to health beyond dieting, promoting a lifestyle of wellness.

23. Our Overall Health - April 25th, 2023

  • Addressed the comprehensive approach to health, covering physical, mental, and social wellbeing. Tips included stress reduction, dietary adjustments, and the importance of regular check-ups.

  • Shining a Light On: A call to action for individuals to prioritize their health as a form of self-care, ensuring a balanced and fulfilling life.

24. Blessings in Disguise - May 2nd, 2023

  • Explored the concept of hardships as hidden blessings, encouraging a perspective shift to see challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.

  • Shining a Light On: A motivational push for individuals to recognize and appreciate the growth and strength developed through facing and overcoming life's challenges.

25. Summer Bucket List - May 9th, 2023

  • Invited participants to craft and pursue a summer bucket list, sparking creativity and adventure in making the most of the summer season.

  • Shining a Light On: Encouragement for everyone to embrace the season with open-hearted enthusiasm, exploring new experiences and making lasting memories.

26. Spring Cleaning & Mental Health - May 16th, 2023

  • Discussed the mental health benefits of spring cleaning, linking the act of decluttering and organizing with improved mental clarity and reduced stress.

  • Shining a Light On: A reminder of the therapeutic power of tidying up our living spaces, promoting a sense of peace, accomplishment, and renewed energy.

27. Give Yourself a Break - May 23rd, 2023

  • Highlighted the importance of self-compassion and taking breaks for personal wellbeing. It suggested various activities for relaxation and self-care.

  • Shining a Light On: A call to embrace moments of rest and leisure as essential components of a balanced and healthy lifestyle, recognizing the value of pausing for self-care.

29. Reset Your Spirit - May 30th, 2023

  • Proposed a mid-year spiritual reset to reassess goals, refocus energy, and renew commitment to personal growth and wellbeing.

  • Shining a Light On: Encouragement for a reflective pause to realign with one's spiritual path and purpose, fostering a deeper connection with oneself and one's aspirations.

30. Are You A Barrier to Your Success? - June 13th, 2023

  • Examined internal and external barriers to success, offering strategies to overcome self-sabotage and embrace a mindset conducive to achieving goals.

  • Shining a Light On: Dorinda Walker, author of "Protected By Purpose", shares her journey from despair to empowerment, inspiring others to overcome obstacles and live a purpose-driven life.

31. You Deserve Celebration! - June 20th, 2023

  • Encouraged recognizing and celebrating personal achievements, big or small, as a form of self-love and acknowledgment of one's growth and efforts.

  • Shining a Light On: Kia, creator, designer, and Founder of KiasKrush, embodies the spirit of creativity and self-expression, showcasing the joy found in celebrating oneself and one's work.

32. Cozy Corners - June 27th, 2023

  • Highlighted the importance of creating a personal sanctuary for relaxation and introspection, underscoring the need for a physical space dedicated to one's mental and emotional wellbeing.

  • Shining a Light On: Arianna Brackett, aka Ari B, The Artist "The Most Versatile", combines poetic musicality with confidence, showcasing the power of creativity and inner strength in expressing oneself and finding peace.

33. Reflections - July 11th, 2023

  • Emphasized the value of reflection in personal growth, encouraging participants to take stock of their experiences, learn from them, and use this insight to inform future decisions and actions.

  • Shining a Light On: Collective encouragement for an introspective journey, recognizing the lessons learned and the growth experienced as foundational steps towards a fulfilling and purposeful life.

34. Who Do You Need to Be? - August 1st, 2023

  • Focused on the essence of being rather than doing, this session led by Sylvia High explored the concept of identity and personal growth. Participants were encouraged to reflect on who they need to be to achieve their goals and fulfill their desires, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and presence.

  • Shining a Light On: Sylvia High, a life coach dedicated to helping individuals discover and align with their true selves to lead fulfilling lives. Explore further resources and guidance at aiminghighinc.com

35. Who Are You Being? - September 5th, 2023

  • Another enlightening discussion with Sylvia High that delved deeper into personal identity and the roles we choose in life. It highlighted how our choices and actions reflect who we are and who we aspire to be, urging participants to live intentionally and authentically.

  • Shining a Light On: Continuation of exploring personal growth and authenticity with guidance from Sylvia High. Participants are encouraged to seek alignment between their actions and their true selves for a more meaningful existence.

36. Financial Fitness w/ Joanna "Jo" Smith - October 3rd, 2023

  • Joanna "Jo" Smith led a session on financial health, offering practical advice on savings, investments, and managing debt. The focus was on building a solid financial foundation to support personal and professional goals.

  • Shining a Light On: Joanna Smith, a multifaceted professional offering insights into financial planning and stability. For those interested in expanding their financial literacy and securing their financial future, Jo's expertise is a valuable resource.

37. Believe, Begin, Become w/ Alicia Newton - November 7th, 2023

  • This session, led by Alicia Newton, emphasized the power of affirmations in overcoming challenges and realizing one's potential. It encouraged participants to believe in themselves, take the first steps towards their goals, and become the person they are meant to be.

  • Shining a Light On: Alicia Newton, whose work inspires others to embrace their journey with confidence and purpose. Her eBook, "Believe, Begin, Become," is available for those looking to deepen their understanding and application of these principles. Learn more at alicianewton.com

38. Make Room for More of What Feeds You - December 5th, 2023

  • Rev. Sheree Jones and Chef Brandy Cochrane presented a holistic approach to well-being, emphasizing the importance of decluttering one's life to make space for nourishing experiences. The session combined spiritual and dietary guidance to encourage overall health and happiness.

  • Shining a Light On: The collaborative efforts of Rev. Sheree Jones and Chef Brandy Cochrane, who advocate for a balanced lifestyle that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit. Their book, "The Noah Fast: Make Room for More," provides a guide for those seeking to embark on this transformative journey.

39. There is More in 2024! - January 2nd, 2024

  • A session designed to set the tone for the new year, encouraging participants to envision and claim more of what they desire in life. It focused on setting intentions, embracing possibilities, and actively pursuing a life filled with love, joy, and fulfillment.

  • Shining a Light On: Collective encouragement to embrace the year with open hearts and minds, ready to welcome new opportunities, relationships, and experiences that align with one's deepest desires and values.

40. FEAR: Face Everything And Rise or Forget Everything And Run - February 6th, 2024

  • Minister Dawne Billings McCain tackled the topic of fear, exploring its impact on our lives and decisions. The session offered strategies to confront and overcome fears, advocating for a life lived with courage and conviction.

  • Shining a Light On: Minister Dawne Billings McCain, who provides spiritual guidance and support to help individuals face their fears and embrace their true potential with faith and courage.

41. Reason, Season, and Lifetime - March 5th, 2024

  • This thoughtful session explored the different roles people play in our lives, some for a reason, some for a season, and some for a lifetime. It encouraged participants to appreciate each relationship's value and lessons, fostering gratitude and understanding.

  • Shining a Light On: A collective reflection on the transient nature of relationships and the enduring impact they have on our journey, reminding us to cherish connections and the growth they bring.