Official Website of
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about melanie
A native Washingtonian, author, playwright/director, graphic designer and entrepreneur with a passion and love for the arts and all things creative. Melanie loves to use her gifts and talents to inspire, create, and shine. One of her life's missions is to convey and spread the message of God's love.
Melanie is a member of the Nonfiction Authors Association and the Black Writers Collective.
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To take advantage of Melanie's graphic design and virtual assistant services, visit her website at www.KingdomKreatives.com
BOOK Reviews
"Such a 'blessed work' on Agape Love...the author makes it so surreal in the creative writing and delivery until you don't want to put the book to rest."
~Altheria W. Jones, DMin
(Love Check Book Review)
Events
MEDIA
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast
An exploration of life, love, literature and the arts from the Christian perspective.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Wanna get featured or interviewed on this podcast?
Email melaniedtheauthor@yahoo.com
Wanna have your questions & comments featured and answered
on the podcast? Drop 'em here via voice message -------->
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S2:E2
LOVE CHECK CONVERSATIONS (Valentine's Edition)
Matters of the Heart: What You Want Vs. What You Need
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
The heart wants what it wants, but God knows what you truly need. Listen in as Machelle Terry-Courtney shares her dramatic journey to Mr. Right, with the plot twist she wasn't expecting. Her testimony is another reminder of the healing and redemptive power of God's love.
Valentine's Edition. For singles and couples.
(Originally recorded on 2/5/21, Audio podcast airing on 2/12/21)
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S2:E3
CICELY TYSON MEMOIRS
(and Black Love in Cinema)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Melanie touches briefly on Tyson's final memoir, "Just As I Am," and also offers her own personal thoughts on the deficiency and negativity of how Black love is often depicted in cinema and television - and the artistry that changes that narrative. Listen in.
(Originally recorded on 2/23/21, Audio podcast airing on 2/26/21)
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S2:E4
WHO'S YOUR COMPETITION?
Tapping Into Your Power - Williamson & Bombeck​
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
It's a competitive world out there, so who's your competition? Melanie offers a little window into her early days and her academic woes/(wows), in light of Marianne Williamson's and Erma Bombeck's powerful truths on tapping into the power within. Listen in.
(Originally recorded on 2/22/21, Audio podcast airing on 3/1/21)
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S2:E5
MEGHAN MARKLE & HER PRINCE
The Little Mermaid Complex (Oprah Interview)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Melanie touches on one aspect of Oprah's March 7th interview with Prince Harry & Meghan Markle and the surprising behind-the-scenes lifestyle this lovely couple endured under the British monarchy. They described the downside to being in their shoes ("The Little Mermaid" complex) and how their love and determination brought them to a newfound freedom they enjoy. Listen in.
(Originally recorded on 3/7/21, Audio podcast airing on 3/8/21)
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S2:E6
INSPIRE. CREATE. SHINE.
What's Your Why?
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
What's the "Inspire.Create.Shine." podcast and theme all about? If you've ever wondered why Melanie does what she does, what her primary podcast and life mission is, and what drives her, listen in. And then think about it: What's your why?
Originally recorded on 3/16/21, Audio podcast airing on 3/19/21.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S2:E7
FLY
Toni Morrison on Baggage
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Food for thought: What are the baggage and weights in your life that could be holding you back and stopping you from soaring? These quotes from literature by acclaimed author Toni Morrison may lead you to evaluate the people, circumstances, and things in your life... Listen in.
Originally recorded on 3/12/21, Audio podcast airing on 3/19/21.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S3:E1
MALCOLM X
Your Beginning Is Not Your End
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Melanie gives a brief window into the life of Malcolm X - as told in the bestseller, "The Autobiography of Malcolm X," and in comparison to the critically acclaimed film starring Denzel Washington, "Malcolm X." Malcolm is a prime example of evolution, how our beginnings don't always determine our endings, and how people, places and things that leave indelible marks on our lives change us... Listen in.
Originally recorded on 3/19/21, Audio podcast airing on 3/26/21.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S3:E2
LOVE CHECK CONVERSATIONS (Easter Edition)
Sacrificial Love and the Resurrection
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
One of the more weighty characteristics of love is that it's sacrificial... Listen in as Melanie recounts her first take on a couple of films that have become mainstays in her family and are of particular importance during the Easter holiday - and hear another small excerpt from her book.
Originally recorded on 3/31/21, Audio podcast airing on 4/3/21.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S3:E3
ONE DAY OR DAY ONE
Inspired by "One Night In Miami"
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
There are defining moments in life - a meeting, encounter, event, or a series of things - that can make an indelible mark on us, greatly impact us and challenge us to do and become more. Debut director Regina King bursts on the scene with this powerful message, delivered through the lives of 4 notable African Americans, in her now-streaming Amazon Original film, "One Night in Miami." Listen in as Melanie gives her take on the film, as well as shares a few more inspirational highlights from the life of Malcolm X as discovered in "The Autobiography of Malcolm X."
​
Originally recorded on 4/16/21, Audio podcast airing on 4/23/21.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S3:E4
KINGS AND QUEENS
And The Value of One
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
When it sinks in that your Creator deems you as royalty, as priceless, as an indispensable part of humanity; it will revolutionize your mindset, behavior and life as a whole. We kings, queens, princes, princesses, etc. are worthy of royal treatment and won't mind giving the same to everyone we meet, knowing they too are one of God's own. Listen in as Melanie breaks down "the value of one," from the divine perspective.
​
Originally recorded on 5/5/21, Audio podcast airing on 5/11/21.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S3:E5
IF YOU'RE GOING THROUGH
Keep Going
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Get your dose of inspiration... Listen in as Melanie shares a little wisdom and the testimony of a woman who endured major hardships and setbacks at a very young age, but still managed to build an empire on the other side. This is a reminder to never let circumstances, negativity, or naysayers limit you. There is light at the end of your tunnel.
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Originally recorded on 5/16/21, Audio podcast airing on 5/27/21.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S4:E1
FROM THE ARCHIVES:
Love Letters From God (9.25.18)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Listen in as Melanie shares 13 powerful scriptures about God's love. These, among others, are His love letters to you and me. Which of these scriptures is your favorite? Which scripture do you most relate to? Please share this episode to help our mission and give a dose of inspiration and encouragement to someone who might need it.
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You can view the video version of this podcast on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P-wNCPUnX-E
​
Originally recorded on 9/25/18, Audio podcast airing on 7/13/21.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S4:E2
LOVE CHECK CONVERSATIONS:
Young Love & The Journey To 'I Do'
(Meet The McPhersons)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Meet Shanaye and Peter McPherson, a young newlywed couple. Listen in as they share their love story and the impact God's love and their relationship with God have had on them and contributed to the success of their relationship, leading up to marriage. Inspiration and encouragement to anyone currently dating, looking for Mr. or Mrs. Right, or unsure about getting married at a young age in today's society.
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You can view the video version of this podcast on YouTube at
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pd4xFvkj2Lo
​
Originally recorded on 7/10/21, Audio podcast airing on 7/14/21.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S4:E3
THE FOOD OF LOVE
Austen and Atticus
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Jane Austen's character, Darcy, echoing the brilliant mind of Shakespeare, refers to poetry as "the food of love" in the classic book/film, "Pride and Prejudice." Some words are so delightful, so delectable, that they enrapture the senses and captivate the heart - and what better medium than poetry to do so. Listen in as Melanie gives her commentary on 9 beautiful verses from an epic work by the poet Atticus. Which is your favorite?
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The YouTube video version of this podcast is not yet available.
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Originally recorded on 7/31/21, Audio podcast airing on 8/2/21.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S4:E4
IS "UNDERSTANDING" A LOVE LANGUAGE?
Steve Covey & Gary Chapman
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
What is more important than love in achieving success in your relationships? Listen in as Melanie shares insight from relationship experts on the thought-provoking topic, and how it all ties into another popular teaching by bestselling authors Gary Chapman (the 5 love languages) and Steve Covey.
For more info on Melanie D, the Author, her book, and for more inspirational content, please visit her website at www.MelanieDTheAuthor.com.
​
Originally recorded on 9/11/21, Audio podcast airing on 9/13/21.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S5:E1
FOLLOW YOUR HEART?
Reviewing "The Alchemist"
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
When it comes to life, love, career, everyday decisions, etc... Do you believe in "following your heart"? What does that mean to you exactly? It is said that "where the treasure is, there the heart is also." Listen in as Melanie reviews the international best-selling book (and soon-to-be film) by author Paulo Coelho, exploring the concept, and the effect it could have on your journey through life.
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Originally recorded on 9/13/21, Audio podcast airing on 9/24/21.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S5:E2
RHYTHM & RHYMES - FOR THE POET IN YOU
(Angelou, Banks, Scott)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
From poetry by the legendary Maya Angelou to films like Brown Sugar and Love Beats Rhymes to hip-hop and other genres of music by great musicians; the spoken word, no doubt, is definitely an art form to be appreciated. Listen in as Melanie reminisces on her early days being introduced to the arts, and as she highlights a film that celebrates both the poetry and hip-hop genres.
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Originally recorded on 9/19/21, Audio podcast airing on 10/13/21.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S5:E3
SENSE BEYOND THE SENSES
(Keller, Beethoven, Mozart)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Sight, sound, taste, touch, smell... what can you sense beyond your 5 senses?
​
Without sight or sound, and a rough start, Helen Keller lived a remarkable life and accomplished great things. Without sound, Beethoven composed some of the greatest musical works of our time. Mozart became a skilled musician/musical composer beginning at the young age of 4... Listen in as Melanie touches on Keller's life, her portrayal in the film "Miracle Worker," and gives food for thought on the amazing capacity of the mind, heart, and spirit.
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Originally recorded on 10/19/21, Audio podcast airing on 10/30/21.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S5:E4
STAND YOUR GROUND:THE BLACK & WHITE OF IT
(Kaepernick, Van Gogh & King)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Even if you gotta kneel sometimes, stand your ground...
Life is a journey of discovery - of self, of God and others - and we never stop learning or evolving. But being true to ourselves is one thing that will make the journey truly worthwhile and serve as a testament to who we truly are and what we believe in.
Listen in as Melanie highlights the new Netflix limited series on the life of Colin Kaepernick through his eyes, as well as shares a few insightful gems from Vincent Van Gogh and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. that will surely inspire and uplift you.
​
Originally recorded on 11/19/21, Audio podcast airing on 11/24/21.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S6:E1
TODAY: CLEAN SLATE
(A Gem From Emerson)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
At the close of yet another year, it's often the new Year we look forward to. But this quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson challenges us to think in even simpler terms and celebrate every Day as it comes. Listen in for a little tidbit from Melanie on why TODAY is a gift!
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Originally recorded on 12/31/21, Audio podcast airing on 12/31/21.
WHERE TO LISTEN
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Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S6:E2
BLACK HISTORY MONTH CHALLENGE
(Black Positivity, Black Love)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Take the 2022 Black History Month challenge and help us spread black positivity, black love, and black inspiration every day, all month long. Listen in for the details on how you can be a part. #spreadthelove #blackhistory2022 #blacksuccess #blacklove #blackculture #blackfacts #blackownedbusiness #blackisbeautiful
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Originally recorded on 2/1/22, Audio podcast airing on 2/2/22.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S6:E3
HIDDEN FIGURES:
The Story Behind The Glory
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Some of the greatest work is often done behind the scenes. Greatness is often found in uncommon places. Recognition matters. Get your dose of inspiration as Melanie shares some insight on the groundbreaking story/film that brought these hidden figures to light.
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Originally recorded on 2/10/22, Audio podcast airing on 2/13/22.
WHERE TO LISTEN
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Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S6:E4
THE POWER OF PRAYER: STORIES & TESTIMONIES
(Black History Edition)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
In a recent group meeting and in honor of Black History Month, we examined the lives of 4 phenomenal African Americans who believed in the power of prayer and used it to accomplish great things - Harriet Tubman, Richard Allen, Jarena Lee and Thomas Dorsey. Listen in as we share a bit of their lives, as well as some personal stories/testimonies that are a testament to the power of
prayer. Food for thought: What impact has prayer had in your life?
​
Originally recorded on 2/21/22, Audio podcast airing on 3/7/22.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S7:E1
LOVE CHECK EXPLORATION PART 1
(The Greatest Love)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Love is, no doubt, the most powerful force in the world - the Greatest of All Time. But what does that look like to you? How has Love impacted your life?
Listen in as Melanie shares a more in-depth exploration of Love, from the pages of her book and other sources.
​
Originally recorded on 3/19/22, Audio podcast airing on 4/4/22.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S7:E2
LOVE CHECK EXPLORATION PART 2
(Heart Check)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
When we begin to grasp the magnitude of the love of GOD, it will make us examine & change our perspective & how we love.
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Listen in as Melanie shares a more in-depth exploration of Love, from the pages of her book and other sources.
​
Originally recorded on 3/19/22, Audio podcast airing on 4/20/22.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S7:E3
THE GOOD, THE BAD AND MOMENTS IN BETWEEN
(Reviewing "The Shack")
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Good times usually outweigh the bad, but have you ever wondered why bad things sometimes happen to God's people?
Listen in as Melanie gives her take on "The Shack," the best-selling yet controversial book by acclaimed author, William Paul Young, and the film the book was derived from - which delves into the subject.
​
Originally recorded on 5/3/22, Audio podcast airing on 5/19/22.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S7:E4
ROOTS & BEYOND: THE PATH TO YOU
(A Look at the "Roots" Sequels)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
It's important to know where we come from in order to know who we are and where we are going.
​
Listen in as Melanie shares her perspective and touches on the critically acclaimed "Roots" miniseries/sequels chronicling the life and heritage of legendary writer, Alex Haley - and how it relates to us today.
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Originally recorded on 6/24/22, Audio podcast airing on 6/30/22.
WHERE TO LISTEN
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Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S8:E1
ROOTS & BEYOND: I'M THAT BRANCH
(Reflecting on the "Roots" Sequels)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
We are what our communities are made of - the branches, the limbs, the fruit - and it all starts with our family tree roots.
Listen in as Melanie discusses the part we all should play in building community and shaping our world, as she continues to reflect on the critically acclaimed "Roots" miniseries/sequels chronicling the life and heritage of legendary writer, Alex Haley - and how it relates to us today.
​
Originally recorded on 7/26/22, Audio podcast airing on 8/24/22.
WHERE TO LISTEN
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Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S8:E2
ROOTS & BEYOND: MAKING THE ANCESTRAL CONNECTION
(Reflecting on the "Roots" Sequels)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
In all your getting, get an understanding... Further insight into who you are and why you do what you do may be found in your roots.
​
Melanie continues to reflect on the critically acclaimed "Roots" miniseries/sequels chronicling the life and heritage of legendary writer, Alex Haley - and how it relates to us today. Listen in on this episode as she shares a bit more about her personal discoveries into her family tree and why you should make the connection to yours.
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Originally recorded on 8/23/22, Audio podcast airing on 8/31/22.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S9:E1
LOVE: THE BLUEPRINT
(Love Check Exploration of Jesus)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
If Jesus is Love, then He is also our blueprint - in business, in life, in ministry, in relationships, etc. But what might that truly look like?
​
Listen in as Melanie explores a few passages that give a small window into the nature of Jesus, His character, and His example - which may surprise you how different it is from common ideas about Him and our societal influence on what Love looks like.
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Originally recorded on 9/20/22, Audio podcast airing on 9/29/22.
WHERE TO LISTEN
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Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S9:E2
LOVE: THE BLUEPRINT PT2
(Ghost Encounters)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
An encounter with Jesus is a direct encounter with Love.
Since Jesus is Love, then He is also our blueprint - in business, in life, in ministry, in relationships, etc.
Listen in as Melanie explores further from the pages of her book and other sources on the nature of Jesus, His acts, His character, His example - and how He shows up when we need Him most.
​
Originally recorded on 10/19/22, Audio podcast airing on 10/31/22.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S9:E3
PURPOSE, PAIN & THE POWER OF LOVE
(Reviewing "Wakanda Forever" & "Till")
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Some of the most trying or tragic times in our lives can be great catalysts for self-discovery and discovering/fulfilling purpose; developing us into stronger, wiser and more empathetic people; and creating the necessary momentum to bring about great movements for the betterment of society. Love can have the same effect.
​
Listen in as Melanie gives her take on two powerful, must-see films she just happened to see around the same time and noticed similar themes/connections, as well as significant contrasts, between them - the critically-acclaimed sequel to the "Black Panther," "Wakanda Forever," and "Till," based on the life and tragic death of Emmett Till.
​
Originally recorded on 11/23/22, Audio podcast airing on 11/30/22.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S10:E1
BLOOM WHERE YOU'RE PLANTED
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Growth takes time, water, light, and love primarily - and we grow through everything we go through.
​
Listen in as Melanie shares a little of her journey, which may encourage you daily to bloom where you're planted and resist the push/things that take you outside of your character, your capacity, and your calling.
​
Originally recorded on 12/13/22, Audio podcast airing on 12/30/22.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S10:E2
DREAMER
(Gleaning From Joseph, King, Disney, Hughes & Angelou)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
The journey to pursuing our dreams can be an interesting one, to say the least. How important are dreams and goals to you vs. living your reality?
​
Listen in as Melanie gives a word of encouragement to the dreamers out there, while sharing a few nuggets from some of the greats who touched on the topic of dreams and their pursuit.
​
Originally recorded on 1/27/23, Audio podcast airing on 1/31/23.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S10:E3
THE AUTHOR BEHIND YOUR STORY:
Highlighting Tyler Perry (Black History Edition)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
As we reflect on those whose stories and work have impacted our lives this Black History Month, think about this: Your story was written before the foundation of the world. Psalm 139 speaks of the book of your life that was written, the days of your life fashioned before your days on earth began, all leading toward the destiny already ordained for you.
​
Listen in on this Black History segment as Melanie highlights Tyler Perry and gives a word of encouragement to the dreamers out there.
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Originally recorded on 2/17/23, Audio podcast airing on 2/26/23.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S11:E1
WHEN ART BECOMES LIGHT
(Reviewing "Summer of Soul" Film)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
When art becomes light, it stirs the soul and lifts the spirit.
Listen in as Melanie gives her take on the must-see Academy Award-winning documentary, "Summer of Soul," which features hidden gems of Black history, culture and music from the Harlem Culture Festival -- and shares reminiscent moments from her own life.
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Originally recorded on 2/21/23, Audio podcast airing on 3/29/23.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S11:E2
FROM THE ARCHIVES: Black Love In Cinema
(Reviewing "Sylvie's Love")
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
The stories we see in film color the hearts, minds, and perceptions of people and cultures in our society. Food for thought: What's your favorite love story in film and why?
​
Listen in as Melanie gives her take on a must-see period film for the romantics out there, "Sylvie's Love," a sweeping Black love story that stands out amidst the stereotypical and often negatively depicted stories like it. A reminder of why we need more positive Black love representation in film to help change the narrative.
​
From The Archives - Audio podcast airing on 4/30/23.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S11:E3
Now You're Speaking My (Love) Language:
Getting Beyond The Disconnect
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
If you aren't speaking the (love) language of your loved ones, there's gonna be a disconnect somewhere along the line.
​
Dr. Gary Chapman's international best-selling book, "The 5 Love Languages" has positively transformed the way many think and interact in their relationships for over 30 years. Listen in as Melanie shares insight on the topic, as well as new love languages which reflect the changing social times we live in.
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Audio podcast airing on 5/31/23.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S12:E1
In Pursuit Of What You Love:
Reviewing "The Little Mermaid 2023"
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Disney's 2023 remake of "The Little Mermaid," among other things, reminds us that it's okay to keep that childlike wonder, to be willing to explore, and to desire more out of life and love - even when it's uncomfortable, difficult or misunderstood by others. Listen in as Melanie shares her take on this beloved classic and why it's still making waves today.
​
Audio podcast airing on 6/29/23.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S12:E2
FROM THE ARCHIVES:
Kings and Queens and the Value of One
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
When it sinks in that your Creator deems you as royalty, as priceless, as an indispensable part of humanity; it will revolutionize your mindset, behavior and life as a whole. We kings, queens, princes, princesses, etc. are worthy of royal treatment and won't mind giving the same to everyone we meet, knowing they too are one of God's own. Listen in as Melanie breaks down "the value of one," from the divine perspective.
​
FROM THE ARCHIVES: Originally recorded on 5/5/21, Audio podcast re-airing on 7/28/23.
WHERE TO LISTEN
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Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S12:E3
ISSA WORD:
What Are You Speaking & Listening To?
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Spoken word. Written word. Living word. The words we ingest, speak and listen to help to frame the world we live in and can literally affect growth, health and vitality in a positive or negative way. They can also serve as a defense against negativity, toxicity and spiritual attacks.
​
Listen in as Melanie shares a thought-provoking word on this simple truth, as well as a few insights she's learned along the way.
​
Originally recorded on 8/18/23, Audio podcast airing on 8/29/23.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S13:E1
ISSA WORD INDEED (PT 2):
Mind Over Matter
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Words and deeds are a vibe, and love is paramount... Listen in as Melanie delves a little deeper into last month's topic about the power of words, how they frame and affect our environment, and why the words you're speaking and listening to matter.
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Originally recorded on 9/23/23, Audio podcast airing on 9/30/23.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S13:E2
FOR EVERY MOUNTAIN:
A Matter of Perspective
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
The beauty, magnitude and grandeur of mountains can put God, you and life in perspective. For every mountain you encounter, there's a lot to take in... what you see and experience is a matter of perspective.
Listen in as Melanie shares a word from one of her dreams and more on the topic.
​
Originally recorded on 10/23/23, Audio podcast airing on 10/31/23.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S13:E3
APTITUDE FOR GRATITUDE:
Minding Your Posture
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Opening with a snippet on gratitude from motivational speakers Germany Kent & Zig Ziglar, listen in as Melanie expounds further with a message that will hopefully challenge you to keep a posture and an attitude of gratitude. Increase your aptitude for gratitude by making it a habit, in word and deed.
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Originally recorded on 11/25/23, Audio podcast airing on 11/30/23.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S14:E1
LOVE CHECK CONVERSATIONS (Author Edition):
Telltale Signs of Bullying and Why Your Voice Matters
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Imagine not knowing what to tell, when to tell and who to tell...
Listen in as debut author, Mrs. Freddie Rodgers Simmons (aka "Miss Freddie Mae") discusses her new children's book, "Lil Dal No Tattle-Telling," and its primary subject matter, which we all can relate to - bullying. This is one that all parents, guardians and adults need to hear - and remember, love is the answer.
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Originally recorded on 12/22/23, Audio podcast airing on 12/27/23.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S14:E2
MAGNETIC LOVE:
Reviewing "The Chosen" Film/TV Series
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
It is often Love that draws us, Love that transforms us and Love that sustains us.
​
Listen in as Melanie gives an in-depth review on the hit TV series-turned film, "The Chosen," which depicts the life and ministry of Jesus and his original disciples -- specifically the first three seasons. This monumental work, and the first of its kind, is another beautiful reminder of the redeeming love of God. (Season 4 in theaters February 2024)
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Originally recorded on 10/14/23, Audio podcast airing on 1/31/24.
WHERE TO LISTEN
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Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S14:E3
SELFLESS ACTS THAT LIFTED HUMANITY:
Colvin, Boynton, Lewis, Houston & Wells
(Black History Edition)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
One of the major qualities of love is that it is sacrificial, giving of itself for the wellbeing of others. Listen in as Melanie highlights a few notable African Americans for Black History and Love Month, whose selfless sacrificial and inspirational acts helped make the world a better place, and their effects are far-reaching even today. #BlackHistoryMonth #LoveMonth
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Claudette Colvin
Amelia Boynton Robinson
John Lewis
Charles Hamilton Houston
Ida B. Wells
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Originally recorded on 2/17/24, Audio podcast airing on 2/29/24.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S15:E1
AFTER THE RESURRECTION:
The Last Sayings of Jesus (Easter Edition)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Around Easter/Resurrection Sunday time, we often hear about the last sayings of Jesus on the cross as if that was the end and the last things He had to say, but have you ever paid attention to what He said AFTER the resurrection?
Listen in as Melanie shares these words of love from the 4 gospels of the Bible, how they relate to us, and how Jesus is still speaking today.
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Originally recorded on 3/20/24, Audio podcast airing on 4/1/24.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S15:E2
ASCEND TO LOVE:
Rising Up To God's Standard
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Referencing such literary works as The Count of Monte Cristo, Shawshank Redemption, the Bible (1 John 4:7), and her own book, Love Check, Melanie takes another deep dive into the topic of Love. This episode further highlights the evidence, challenges, necessity and supremacy of love, while reminding us to look within and rise up to God's standard.
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Originally recorded on 4/26/24, Audio podcast airing on 4/30/24.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S15:E3
LOVE MAKES A DIFFERENCE:
Words, Deeds and Feelings
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Drawing from the words of Maya Angelou and her own book, Love Check, Melanie challenges us to go beyond the bare minimum as we love in word and deed and create memories of kindness and love that others can truly feel.
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Originally recorded on 5/25/24, Audio podcast airing on 6/1/24.
WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S16:E1
KEEP IT SIMPLE: JUST LOVE
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
What can you do to make a difference and best represent God? Keep it simple: Just love... A life that reflects love is a life that reflects God. Listen in as Melanie delves into Matthew 25:35-40 and highlights this powerful truth.
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WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S16:E2
CLIMATE OF COMPETITION & COVETING
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
In a climate of competition and coveting, when seeking for more becomes more about you and less about God, your purpose or others, beware. What part does coveting and competition play in your world? How can love balance everything out?
Listen in as Melanie highlights the impact and effects of coveting and competition on the road to destiny.
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Originally recorded on 7/31/24, Audio podcast airing on 8/4/24.
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WHERE TO LISTEN
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Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S16:E3
FRUIT THAT REMAINS
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
In any arena we're in, people will know we are disciples of Christ by our love, the #1 fruit of the Spirit. And our connection to that Vine produces fruit that remains, fruit that also draws others to God.
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Listen in as Melanie reminds us to check our fruit, and encourages us to continue to be a light in these last and evil days.
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Originally recorded on 9/1/24, Audio podcast airing on 9/13/24.
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WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S17:E1
EVERY HERO HAS A CHOICE:
Reviewing "Spiderman 3"
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
There's a hero inside of all of us, and every hero has a choice -- to choose the good and be the light or choose to walk in darkness.
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Listen in as Melanie gives her take on Spiderman 3 (starring Tobey Maguire & Kirsten Dunst), expounding on some of the hard things we face in love and encouraging us to continue to be a light.
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Originally recorded on 10/4/24, Audio podcast airing on 10/19/24.
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WHERE TO LISTEN
Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S17:E2
GOD'S REMINDERS:
His Love Always Shines Through
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
Amidst the noise and distractions of life, God always has a way of getting through.
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Listen in as Melanie discusses a little on the subject of God's reminders - and how His love will find you every single time.
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Originally recorded on 11/14/24, Audio podcast airing on 11/26/24.
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WHERE TO LISTEN
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Inspire. Create. Shine. Podcast - S17:E3
GIVE LOVE:
The Tangible Intangible Gift (Christmas Edition)
By Melanie Dee
Episode Description:
That one gift that stands above the rest... you can't hold it in your hands, but you can hold it in your heart. You can't carry it, but it can carry you...
Listen in as Melanie discusses a little on the subject of giving, and why there's no greater gift than love.
Originally recorded on 12/14/24, Audio podcast airing on 12/24/24.
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WHERE TO LISTEN