272 – Unlearning the BS with Dr. Donna Oriowo

In this episode, I welcome back Dr. Donna Oriowo—the brilliant therapist, dynamic speaker, and now author of Drink Water and Mind Your Business: A Black Woman’s Guide to Unlearning the BS and Healing Your Self-Esteem. Known for her candid insights and unapologetic approach to mental wellness, Dr. Donna returns to break down what it really means to heal, unlearn, and radically embrace self-worth as a Black woman.

We dive deep into:

🧠 The difference between self-esteem and self-confidence—and why it matters 😞 How shame shows up in our lives and keeps us disconnected from ourselves 📝 The power of journaling, reflection, and doing the work beyond the page 💔 Why unlearning childhood conditioning is necessary for growth and freedom 🪞 How to stop confusing external validation with internal self-worth

Dr. Donna keeps it real as we unpack the ways the world teaches Black women to shrink—and how her book offers a roadmap to expand, heal, and thrive. If you’ve ever questioned your worth, struggled with shame, or felt stuck in a cycle of people-pleasing, this conversation is for you.

Follow Dr. Donna here: 📌 Instagram: @drdonnaoriowo 🔗 Website & Book: https://www.drdonnaoriowo.com

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Chapters 0:16 Welcome Back, Dr. Donna Oriowo 2:24 Housekeeping and Episode Feedback 4:01 Upcoming Events: Boonie Live 5:01 Journey to Self-Esteem 6:34 Love Island and Social Media Influence 9:58 The Concept of Self-Esteem 16:23 The Impact of Childhood on Self-Concept 18:42 Understanding Shame vs. Guilt 25:13 Breaking Down Self-Worth 35:53 The Role of Shame in Relationships 46:49 The Difference Between Loneliness and Alone 51:34 Quickfire Thoughts: A Final Breakdown