Today’s episode is a special one - it is from our first LIVE recording of Balanced Black Girl Podcast. We hosted our first live podcast at The Collective in Seattle and had an open, honest conversation about the importance of community, and how we can build more authentic connections and relationships. Get to know our amazing guests. Michaela Ayers is the founder of Nourish, a social impact organization that drives cultural change through human connection and experiential learning. Through the lens of social justice, she designs meaningful moments that embrace diversity and foster a culture of belonging. Trina Baker co-leads the Seattle chapter of GirlTrek, the largest public health nonprofit for African-American women and girls in the United States. With nearly 100,000 neighborhood walkers nationwide, GirlTrek encourages women to use walking as a practical first step to inspire healthy living, families, and communities. Falesha Johnson is the founder of Felite Performance where she works as a speed and agility coach for young athletes. She is also a seasoned public speaker, and the Associate Director of Development at the Michael G. Foster School of Business at the University of Washington. In this episode, we talk about… The need for consistent sisterhood, and why it is so important for our health. How to take online connections offline. Finding community when you move to a new city. Overcoming feelings of competition with other women. Connecting with people from different cultural backgrounds.   RESOURCES: Learn more about The Collective Seattle. Connect with GirlTrek in your city. Check out future events with Nourish. Support Balanced Black Girl Podcast on Patreon for exclusive podcast episodes.   If you like this episode, please leave a rating and review on iTunes. Keep in touch with Les on Instagram @balancedles, follow the show @balancedblackgirlpodcast, and join the Balanced Black Girl Podcast Community on Facebook.   PS: If you really want to take your year to the next level, snag our free glow-up guide. This free guide has everything you need to implement a self-care practice that works. You’ll get daily journal worksheets, inspiring quotes, affirmations, and a bonus workout. Get the guide HERE.