Keep it Positive, Sweetie

Imani Ellis has built more than an event—she’s created a space where culture, creativity, and community can grow together. In this Season premiere episode, Crystal sits down with the CultureCon founder to talk about what it means to evolve something that’s already successful, how faith shapes the way she leads, and why building something meaningful should never cost you your identity. They get into the woman behind the work, the responsibility that comes with creating for a community, and how Imani is learning to make room for her own growth along the way. This is a conversation about culture, calling, and becoming, and the work of staying grounded while the vision keeps getting bigger. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the Season 12 finale of Keep It Positive, Sweetie, Crystal sits down with bestselling author, speaker, and faith leader Nona Jones for an honest conversation about what healing really looks like when forgiveness doesn’t immediately take the hurt away. Inspired by her new book, The Power of Petty Prayers, Nona opens up about trauma, rejection, betrayal, anger, boundaries, and the difference between saying you forgive and actually doing the deeper work of healing. This conversation is about faith without pretending, healing without rushing, and learning how to tell God the truth about what still hurts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special episode of Keep It Positive, Sweetie, Crystal turns the mic around and answers questions straight from the Sweeties. Nothing is off the table as she opens up about the woman she’s becoming, love, boundaries, and discernment. This episode is honest, fun, and a personal check-in about faith, growth, love, purpose, and becoming. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Keep It Positive, Sweetie, Crystal sits down with Grammy-nominated artist and songwriter Johnny Venus as he steps into a new chapter and gears up for his solo album release. Johnny opens up about what it feels like to carry the vision more personally, how his solo work is revealing new sides of his creativity, and what he’s learning about trusting his own taste. It’s a conversation about identity, creativity, purpose, and what happens when you give yourself room to follow your own voice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Keep It Positive, Sweetie, Crystal sits down with Foundation Director Ari for a deeper look at the heart behind the Crystal Renee Hayslett Foundation. They talk about how the Foundation came together and what it means to build something that creates lasting access, opportunity, and support for others. This conversation is about service, stewardship, community, and building something that can keep making an impact long after the moment has passed. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when two completely different journeys come together around one shared vision? In this episode of Keep It Positive, Sweetie, Crystal sits down with Cloudy Donut Co. founders Zewiditu Jewel and Derrick Faulcon for a conversation about the people behind the brand, building a business together, and creating something that challenges what ownership can look like in communities that are often overlooked. Derrick opens up about the years he spent incarcerated and the life he built afterward, while Zewiditu shares how her background in education shaped the way she approaches leadership and impact. Together, they talk about taking a chance on Cloudy, navigating business and their relationship, and their philosophy of “reverse gentrification. It’s a conversation about love, risk, representation, partnership, and the responsibility that comes with creating a path someone else can follow. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Success doesn’t always come when you expect it—but that doesn’t mean you’re behind. This week on Keep It Positive, Sweetie, Crystal sits down with marketing executive, entrepreneur, and IBest Wines founder Ingrid Best to talk about what it really means to bet on yourself after years of building someone else’s vision. From becoming a young mother to spending more than two decades helping shape iconic luxury brands before launching her own, Ingrid shares the lessons she learned about courage, preparation, faith, and trusting God’s timing. If you’ve ever questioned whether it’s too late to start, wondered if your current season is preparing you for something greater, or needed the reminder that your biggest leap begins with believing in yourself, this conversation is for you. Because sometimes the greatest investment you’ll ever make… is betting on yourself. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who are you when the thing that introduced you to the world is no longer the thing that defines you? This week, Crystal sits down with basketball legend, analyst, and coach Ty Young for an honest conversation about life after the game, reinventing yourself, and discovering purpose beyond the jersey. It’s a conversation about identity, fulfillment, and becoming the woman behind the titles. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it mean to carry the weight of the truth? This week, Crystal Renee Hayslett sits down with Dr. Charis Chambers, known as “The Period Doctor,” to celebrate the release of her new book, The Period and Puberty Parenting Revolution. Together, they explore calling, motherhood, and the courage to have the conversations that shape generations—revealing how truth, when shared with compassion, has the power to heal. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some people wait for proof before they move. Others move because they believe. This week, Crystal Renee Hayslett sits down with entrepreneur and founder Jhalesa Seymour for an honest conversation about faith, discernment, discipline, and the courage to build with conviction. Together, they explore what it means to trust God before you have all the answers and keep moving when the evidence hasn’t caught up to the promise. Whether you’re building a business, stepping into a new season, or simply learning to trust God’s timing, this episode is a reminder that purpose often requires belief before proof. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it really take to build wealth that lasts? This week, Crystal sits down with Earn Your Leisure founders Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings for a conversation about entrepreneurship, friendship, and influencing the future leaders of America., From building Invest Fest into a global movement to preparing the next generation for financial freedom, they share the lessons that transformed a podcast into one of the most trusted platforms in business. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when your purpose becomes bigger than you ever imagined? This week, Crystal sits down with Jasmine Crowe-Houston—founder and CEO of Goodr, author of Feeding Hope, and one of the nation’s leading voices in fighting food insecurity. From recovering millions of pounds of surplus food to building free grocery markets in underserved communities, Jasmine shares the courage, faith, and stewardship behind a mission that’s changing lives. This is a conversation about purpose, leadership, and becoming the woman God was preparing all along.e. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Crystal Renee sits down with Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, and actress Keri Hilson for an honest conversation about purpose, peace, relationships, and embracing every season of your journey. Together, they discuss her first studio album in fifteen years, why she chose to tell this chapter of her story now, navigating relationships as a woman in the music industry, trusting God’s timing, and the lessons that shaped the woman she is today. This conversation isn’t about looking back—it’s about moving forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This season gave us more than unforgettable interviews—it gave us perspective. Join Crystal Renee, Shelly, Ashauna, and Wes as they look back on a season filled with powerful conversations, unexpected laughter, personal growth, and life-changing moments. Together, they revisit the stories that stayed with them long after the cameras stopped rolling—from healing and purpose to leadership, relationships, and finding your voice. It’s a celebration of the lessons, laughter, and humanity that defined Season 11. Whether you’ve watched every episode or you’re discovering Keep It Positive, Sweetie for the first time, this special invites you to reflect, grow, and remember why honest conversations matter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Toya Johnson and Red Rush open up about marriage, blended family, entrepreneurship, fatherhood, and what it really takes to build love intentionally in public. From balancing business and family to navigating visibility through reality TV and their content, they’re redefining modern Black love and leadership. This conversation is honest, warm, and deeply grounded in partnership. This episode is about love, family, and building a life rooted in intention. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Keep It Positive, Sweetie, Dr. Key Hallmon talks about community, wellness, entrepreneurship, and the mission behind building The Village Market Enterprises. From expanding Village Retail into the world’s busiest airport to growing Our Village United into more than 30 states and releasing her book No One Is Self-Made, this conversation explores what it means to build intentionally, lead with purpose, and create opportunities that extend beyond yourself. This episode is about collective care, responsibility, healing, and the power of community. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this solo episode of Keep It Positive, Sweetie, Crystal talks all things ORS Unapologetic, from the inspiration behind the line to the deeper relationship Black women have with hair, confidence, self-care, and identity. She opens up about building the products, stepping into founder territory, the emotional launch experience, and why this line is about so much more than just hair. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Keep It Positive, Sweetie, Keisha Lance Bottoms opens up about the deeply personal journey behind her memoir The Rough Side of the Mountain. From childhood trauma and family secrets to faith, leadership, motherhood, body image, and reclaiming the parts of herself she once felt she had to hide, this conversation explores the humanity behind public strength. This episode is about healing, identity, authenticity, and what it means to finally show up as your whole self. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Keep It Positive, Sweetie, Jess Hilarious opens up about motherhood, co-parenting, healing, faith, and the emotional journey behind her memoir ’Til Death Do We Parent. From becoming a mother at 19 to navigating survival mode marriage, and redefining family, this conversation is honest, funny, emotional, and deeply relatable. This episode is about healing, softness, and learning how to move forward even when life doesn’t look the way you imagined. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this live episode of Keep It Positive, Sweetie, Yung Miami opens up about growth, motherhood, business, relationships, confidence, and stepping fully into her solo era. From relaunching Caresha Please and navigating public perception, to entrepreneurship, faith, and evolving in real time, this conversation goes beyond the persona and into the woman behind it all. This episode is about reinvention, confidence, and embracing every version of yourself along the way. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Part 2 of this solo episode, Crystal talks about what it really means to expand with intention. From being multi-hyphenate, to maintaining privacy while building a public brand, to navigating purpose, faith, and the fear of oversaturation, this conversation is about alignment, timing, and trusting your own path. Because success isn’t about doing everything at once, it’s about doing the right things, in the right season. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In PT.1 of this solo episode, Crystal breaks down what it really looks like to build a personal brand while you’re still becoming. From navigating pressure to be perfect to staying consistent, avoiding burnout, and building a brand beyond social media, this conversation is a reminder that you don’t have to have everything figured out to get started. Your brand isn’t something you wait to become; it’s something you build as you are. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a world full of noise, what does it really mean to be still? Touré Roberts joins Keep It Positive, Sweetie to talk about his new book Knowing: The Journey to Certainty in an Uncertain World, and what it really means to find your calling, move through uncertainty, and embrace the power of stillness. This conversation explores how to slow down, trust yourself, and move with clarity, even when the path isn’t fully clear. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At 14, Tiffany Willis was a teen mom facing homelessness. Today, she’s a Fortune 100 executive and author. In this episode, she shares how she rewrote her story, from being labeled and overlooked to owning her voice, her power, and her purpose. Through her journey and her new book, Own Your Narrative, Tiffany opens up about family, faith, leadership, and the mindset it takes to turn struggle into strength. Connect @luvCrystalRenee Visit: CrystalReneeHayslett.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chrystal Renee welcomes KevOnStage to talk about how humor helps him tell the truth and cope in real life, especially through his one-man show “Grief Sucks,” inspired by losing his brother. He explains that comedy can help people hear hard things, “People can listen, are more open to listening if you’ve made them laugh”—and admits jokes are part of how he processes grief, even when it’s messy and too soon. Kev also gets real about boundaries and burnout (why he stopped meet-and-greets), parenting two very different sons, and what he’s learned in 22 years of marriage—like how you can “do hurt and harm with good intention,” and how marriage requires staying updated, “like being up to date on your cell phone.” Biggest takeaway: growth is ongoing, and Kev is choosing to be “unapologetically me,” even if everyone won’t like it. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From music to business to authorship, 2 Chainz has lived many chapters, but this conversation focuses on what’s beneath it all. In this episode, he reflects on his latest NY Times Best Seller, The Voice In My Head Is God, the role of intuition in his life, and the difference between success and peace. Connect @luvCrystalRenee Red: The Voice In My Head is GOD By 2 Chaiz Visit: CrystalReneeHayslett.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ten seasons. Over a million premiere viewers. Years of growth on screen and off. In this solo episode, Crystal reflects on Fatima’s journey since Season 1, what Season 10 reveals about higher stakes and shifting dynamics, and how playing a strong woman for nearly a decade shapes identity in real life. This conversation is about longevity, visibility, maturity, and what it means to grow in public while still becoming. Connect @luvCrystalRenee Visit: CrystalReneeHayslett.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Crystal Renee welcomes KJ Smith Black and Jordan Coleman to celebrate 10 seasons of Tyler Perry’s Sistas and talk about what it’s like playing sisters on screen while building real sisterhood off set. They share how their chemistry came naturally, Jordan’s nerves joining an established cast in season 10 (including a vulnerable first-day scene), and how KJ made space for Jordan to shine. The conversation touches on character growth, family trauma and deflection, the pressure of carrying a show, and how fame can feel isolating even with strong support. They also discuss We Got You Sis community events, handling social media negativity with boundaries and blocking, and why their platforms come with responsibility. KJ plugs her Black Coffee business, and Jordan shares she’s producing an action short film. @luvcrystalrenee @KingJayBarnett See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Crystal Renee welcomes Tunde Oyeneyin to the Keep It Positive, Sweetie Show to talk about stepping into acting as Madison Truitt on Tyler Perry’s Sistas, joining a series in its 10th season, and what it takes to be ready for a fast, one-take set. Tunde shares how she and Chris first connected through Peloton and later met in person, then reflects on pivoting publicly—from 16 years in cosmetics to cycling after a life-changing first class, to becoming a New York Times bestselling author, and now a series regular. They discuss ambition, being a successful Black woman who’s sometimes misunderstood, balancing strength with vulnerability, and choosing not to shrink your life for a relationship. Tunde also talks about soul care, guarding her peace as visibility grows, and upcoming projects, including Sports Illustrated Swim. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Crystal sits down with Jotaka Eadd, Founder of Full Circle Strategies and known as the Olivia Pope of Silicon Valley, for a heartfelt conversation about grief, healing, and finding strength in heavy moments. From navigating personal loss to continuing the work of community, advocacy, and leadership, Jotaka shares how she moves forward through challenges, learns from missteps, and stays connected to purpose. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Chrystal Renee welcomes Debra (Da Brat) and Judy to the Keep It Positive Sweetie Show for a real conversation about building happiness on purpose through love, partnership, accountability, and everyday choices that protect home. They share why they’ve been quieter online, expound on motherhood, staying present, and keeping parts of their son’s life private, while still finding a middle ground with content. They talk about having a baby later in life, using Judy’s eggs with Debra carrying the pregnancy, and how becoming parents has softened Debra and helped her let go of survival mode and old habits from being an artist and growing up in Chicago. Judy shares her journey from doing hair as a child in New Orleans to building Kaleidoscope, including how Miracle Drops started after a client returned with damage that needed help. The couple previews their book, “The Way Love Goes,” out February 3, 2026 (pre-orders available), explaining that relationships aren’t always 50/50 and that partners should lean into each other’s strengths instead of fighting for control. They keep it honest about conflicts like jealousy, old messages, and even phones getting thrown, and how they’ve learned to cool down, communicate, and not go to bed angry. They also talk about keeping your identity in a relationship, with Debra encouraging Judy to take time for herself, while Judy opens up about the weight of running a company without investors and having to absorb costly mistakes as the owner. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jonathan McReynolds’ music has long created a space for reflection, faith, and real-time conversation with God. This weeks conversation goes beyond the songs — touching on faith, vulnerability, growth, and what it really means to walk with God in real time. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Keep it Positive, Sweetie Show, host Chrystal Renee speaks with Claire Sulmers, the visionary behind Fashion Bomb Daily. Claire shares her journey from Atlanta to Harvard and eventually to the heights of fashion journalism. She discusses the challenges she faced in accessing the fashion industry, the importance of resilience, and the critical decision that led her to create Fashion Bomb Daily. The conversation highlights the ongoing struggle for inclusivity in fashion, maintaining personal perseverance, and the significance of ownership and creating one's path. Claire also reflects on the importance of rest, self-care, and her future aspirations, including writing another book and expanding her brand. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Crystal welcomes actor and filmmaker Shannon Wallace on the Keep It Positive, Sweetie Show to discuss Shannon's journey in both photography and acting. Shannon shares his experiences from growing up as a shy child in Long Island to gaining confidence in college. He talks about transitioning from social work to modeling and eventually acting, using each phase of his career to build skills and fulfill his artistic ambitions. They discuss his work in notable shows, the impact of personal loss, and how acting in 'City on a Hill' helped him deal with his brother's tragic death. Shannon highlights his new projects, including a film premiering at Slam Dance, and shares insights into his personal life and relationships. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Keep it Positive, Sweetie, host Crystal Renee speaks with Dr Joseph Walker III about his journey into leadership, starting from his early days in the church at 24, navigating faith, loneliness, marriage, and legacy. They discuss his new book 'Pursuit of Purpose: Peace by Piece,' which reflects on understanding life's challenges as pieces of a bigger puzzle, leading to purpose and peace. Bishop Walker shares insights on stewardship, humility, the importance of empathy in leadership, and finding purpose amidst pain. He also talks about the balance between pastoral duties, family life, and entrepreneurial ventures, emphasizing the significance of recognizing and nurturing one's unique purpose. Connect @luvCrystalRenee @josephwalker3 Visit: CrystalReneeHayslett.com Read: Pursuit of Purpose Peace by Piece By Dr. Joseph Walker See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Crystal sits down with Q Parker for a conversation about life, love, and evolution. From his latest project, Evolution of Romance, Volume One, to the discipline, intention, and values that guide him today, Q reflects on how his perspective has matured over time. The conversation moves beyond music into longevity, relationships, self-respect, and what it means to keep growing with purpose while staying true to who you are. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Faith isn’t always quiet — sometimes it shows up in the middle of pressure, responsibility, and unanswered questions. Crystal sits down with Pastor Mike Jr. to talk about what it really means to lead with faith while staying human. From the continued impact of “Amen” to the heart behind Confetti & Conspiracies, this conversation is about encouragement that doesn’t ignore reality and faith that meets people exactly where they are. Connect @luvCrystalRenee @PastorMikeJr Visit: CrystalReneeHayslett.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the 'Keep It Positive Sweetie Show,' Crystal Renee Hayslett sits down with comedian Marco Summers, also known as Funny Marco, to discuss his unique approach to comedy and life. They talk about Marco's journey from DM'ing Crystal over a year ago after watching a Tyler Perry episode to finally being on the show. Marco shares insights on patience, learning from Kevin Hart, and not letting the industry's timing affect one's passion. He delves into his upbringing, the impact of his father’s street life and the mindset of his mother, and his commitment to being a different kind of dad for his children. Marco touches upon his struggle with dyslexia and how it shaped his comedic style and outlook. We also explore Marco's transition to using his real name, the importance of trusting and learning from his team, and his evolution from doing Walmart pranks to full-scale productions. He provides a candid look into his personal life, including his relationship with his children and his move from Kansas City to Atlanta. The conversation is filled with humor, wisdom, and practical advice on building a career while staying authentic. Connect @luvCrystalRenee @MarcoSummers See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the 'Keep it Positive, Sweetie' show, host Crystal Renee shares an anecdote about her challenging travel experience and emphasizes the importance of having supportive, prayerful people in one's life. She welcomes actress Terri J Vaughan, known for her roles on the Steve Harvey Show and Netflix's Miss Governor. They discuss their journeys in the entertainment industry, touching on faith, perseverance, and finding success despite numerous challenges. Terri reflects on her 20 years of pitching her show and the importance of living life fully, balancing career and family, and trusting one's inner purpose. The conversation concludes with a prayer for all attendees, asking for God's guidance, grace, and swift answers to their prayers. Connect @luvCrystalRenee @terrijvaughn Visit: CrystalReneeHayslett.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful and transparent episode of Keep It Positive, Sweetie, Crystal Renee Hayslett sits down with Grammy Award–winning artist, author, and thought leader Lecrae for a candid conversation rooted in truth and growth. Together, they unpack faith, identity, mental health, public scrutiny, and what it really means to live authentically—especially when your journey is unfolding in the public eye. With honesty, vulnerability, and mutual respect, this conversation creates space for healing, reflection, and hope, reminding listeners that purpose is often found on the other side of hard conversations. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Black Effect Presents... Keep It Positive, Sweetie! In this episode of 'Keep It Positive, Sweetie,'host Crystal Renee Hayslett sits down with the multi-talented Brian Jordan Jr., known for his role on Tyler Perry's 'Sisters.' Brian shares his journey from his childhood in Louisiana, through his struggles and triumphs in the entertainment industry, to his recent ventures, including his passion project 'Riley the Musical.' He reflects on the impact of Hurricane Katrina, his educational path, and the importance of black representation in theater. Brian also opens up about the personal challenges he has faced, such as body image issues and the pressures of public life. With a focus on his growth, faith, and the people who have supported him along the way, See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, Crystal Renee continues her conversation with Dr. Jay Barnett, licensed therapist and advocate, to discuss his transformation from a professional athlete to a leading voice in mental health. Barnett shares his powerful personal story of overcoming depression, surviving suicide attempts, and finding purpose through faith and therapy. This candid conversation covers the stigmatization of therapy among Black men, the impact of parental divorce, and the paths to healing and emotional intelligence. Barnett also touches on the role of spirituality in his life, the importance of being vulnerable, and the challenges of navigating relationships while pursuing a higher calling. With deep honesty, both Hayslett and Barnett reflect on their personal journeys, the significance of seeking help, and the power of prayer and stillness. @luvcrystalrenee @KingJayBarnett See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, Crystal Renee welcomes Dr. Jay Barnett, licensed therapist and advocate, to discuss his transformation from a professional athlete to a leading voice in mental health. Barnett shares his powerful personal story of overcoming depression, surviving suicide attempts, and finding purpose through faith and therapy. This candid conversation covers the stigmatization of therapy among Black men, the impact of parental divorce, and the paths to healing and emotional intelligence. Barnett also touches on the role of spirituality in his life, the importance of being vulnerable, and the challenges of navigating relationships while pursuing a higher calling. With deep honesty, both Hayslett and Barnett reflect on their personal journeys, the significance of seeking help, and the power of prayer and stillness. @luvcrystalrenee @KingJayBarnett See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Keep It Positive Sweetie Show, host Crystal Renee Hayslett chats with actor, producer, and writer Lil Rel Howery about his career, faith, and new film 'Unexpected Christmas.' Lil Rel shares stories from his early years in Chicago, his breakout role in 'Get Out,' and his journey through standup comedy. He opens up about the influence of great comedians, the importance of faith, and how he found healing through prophecy after his mother's passing. The conversation also touches on his experiences in the industry, the importance of owning up to mistakes, and how he maintains balance between his family, faith, and fame. Lil Rel emphasizes the significance of representation in holiday films and offers advice for young comedians. This insightful chat underscores the power of laughter and faith in navigating life’s challenges. Connect @luvCrystalRenee @comedianlilrel See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the 'Keep It Positive Sweetie Show,' Crystal Renee Hayslett sits down with comedian Marco Summers, also known as Funny Marco, to discuss his unique approach to comedy and life. They talk about Marco's journey from DM'ing Crystal over a year ago after watching a Tyler Perry episode to finally being on the show. Marco shares insights on patience, learning from Kevin Hart, and not letting the industry's timing affect one's passion. He delves into his upbringing, the impact of his father’s street life and the mindset of his mother, and his commitment to being a different kind of dad for his children. Marco touches upon his struggle with dyslexia and how it shaped his comedic style and outlook. We also explore Marco's transition to using his real name, the importance of trusting and learning from his team, and his evolution from doing Walmart pranks to full-scale productions. He provides a candid look into his personal life, including his relationship with his children and his move from Kansas City to Atlanta. The conversation is filled with humor, wisdom, and practical advice on building a career while staying authentic. Connect @luvCrystalRenee @MarcoSummers See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.