Let's Try This Again with B. Simone

• Surviving the Darkness: Kevin’s Story of Hope, Healing, and Resilience

  This episode of Let’s Try This Again is one of the most powerful and personal conversations I’ve ever had. I’m your host, B Simone, and today I sit down with Kevin—a filmmaker, producer, author, and mental health advocate whose story is nothing short of a miracle. We talk about the realities of suicide, mental health struggles, and the unseen emotional weight so many of us carry.Kevin opens up about living with bipolar disorder and the darkness he’s battled—including the day he attempted to end his life by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge at just 19 years old. Out of thousands who have jumped, only 40 have survived in 90 years, and Kevin is one of them1. Hearing him talk about the days leading up to that moment, the pain he felt, and the silence he kept out of fear of judgment is both heartbreaking and incredibly relatable. He shares how he used to hide his hallucinations, panic attacks, and deep sadness, and how the loss of his beloved teacher to suicide made him believe it was an option for himself.But this episode isn’t just about the darkness—it’s about hope, resilience, and practical steps to keep going. Kevin shares the two life-saving actions he takes whenever suicidal thoughts return: looking in the mirror and reminding himself, “My thoughts don’t have to become my actions,” and reaching out to say, “I need help now.” These simple but powerful tools have helped him stay alive for 24 years since his attempt, and he urges anyone struggling to use them too.We also talk about the importance of community, love, and small daily actions that can shift your mindset—like meditation, exercise, and even something as simple as a hug. Kevin’s story is a testament to the fact that you are not alone, your life has purpose, and there is always a way forward, even when it feels impossible.If you or someone you love is struggling, please listen with care and know that there are people and resources ready to support you. This episode is raw, real, and full of hope. I promise, you’ll walk away feeling seen, motivated, and reminded that your story isn’t over. Let’s keep trying—together.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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• Isolation vs Solitude

  Welcome to the Let’s Try This Again podcast! I’m your host, B Simone, and in this episode, we’re diving deep into a topic that has transformed my life: Isolation vs. Solitude. This conversation is personal, relatable, and packed with lessons that will help you reflect on your own journey and move forward with intention.I share my experience of navigating a season of solitude—a time of intentional alone moments that have brought incredible growth, clarity, and healing. Solitude has taught me to embrace independence, prioritize self-love, and let go of relationships that no longer serve me. I compare this to isolation, which can feel dark, fear-based, and stagnant—a space I’ve seen others struggle in.For example, I talk about a loved one who’s in isolation—avoiding community out of fear—and contrast that with my solitude journey where I’ve learned to meal prep, set boundaries, and find joy in being alone without depending on external validation. Solitude has been a gift for me, allowing me to shed old habits and step into a healthier mindset.This episode is about asking yourself: What season am I in? Whether you’re feeling lonely or disconnected, understanding the difference between isolation and solitude can be the key to unlocking growth and purpose. I break down the definitions and share practical ways to shift your mindset from victim to victor—because solitude can be empowering when embraced intentionally.Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with vulnerability, laughter, and actionable steps to help you heal and evolve. Let’s keep growing together—because every season has its purpose!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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• Faith Over Fear: Celebrating One Year

  Welcome to the Let's Try This Again podcast! I’m your host, B Simone, and this episode is extra special because we’re celebrating one year of podcasting—yes, a whole year of pressing forward, overcoming fear, and giving God our yes. In this episode, I share my personal journey of starting this podcast, how it came to life during a season of uncertainty, and the lessons I learned about faith, fear, and obedience. Let me take you back to the moment when God dropped the name "Let's Try This Again" into my spirit during a fast—a time when I felt broken and unsure about my next steps. Eight months after walking away from my previous podcast, I was hesitant to start over. But through faith and seeking God’s guidance, I found clarity and courage to take that leap.I talk about how fear can paralyze us—whether it’s starting a new business, giving love another chance after heartbreak, or pursuing a dream that feels impossible. For me, fear was real when I thought about podcasting again after a traumatic experience with my first show. But choosing faith over fear opened doors not just for me but for others who needed encouragement and healing through these conversations.This episode is all about starting, even when you don’t have all the answers. Whether it’s picking up an old hobby like singing or painting, or taking steps toward your purpose—even if it’s as small as writing down ideas—your yes isn’t just for you. It’s connected to someone else’s breakthrough, healing, or freedom.I hope this episode motivates you to seek the next step in your journey. Remember Jeremiah 29:13: Seek Him with all your heart, and you will find Him. Don’t let fear hold you back from what God has called you to do. Your yes can create waves of healing and freedom for others—it’s bigger than you think!Tune in now for a raw and relatable conversation filled with laughter, vulnerability, and practical steps to move forward in faith. Let’s celebrate together and keep trying—because the movement begins with us!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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• Isolation: The Key to Self-Discovery feat Brandon Lewis

  Hey, y’all! It’s your girl B. Simone, and welcome back to Let’s Try This Again! This week, I’m joined by someone super special—my brother and partner-in-crime from my 2024 stand-up tour, Brandon Lewis, aka B-Lew. Together, we dive into a raw and heartfelt conversation about growth, grief, and the power of isolation in self-discovery.We talk about everything—from how we first met back in 2016 (remember that cringy boxing video shoot?) to how we reconnected almost a decade later during one of the most transformative years of our lives. Brandon opens up about losing his mom to cancer and how that heartbreaking experience became the catalyst for his season of transition. He shares how he’s learning to set boundaries, embrace self-worth, and step into a new version of himself.On the flip side, I reflect on my own season of acceleration. From shedding dead weight to staying laser-focused on my vision, I’ve learned that not everyone is meant to come along for the ride—and that’s okay. We also talk about how isolation isn’t just lonely—it’s necessary. It breaks you down so you can rebuild stronger than ever.This episode is full of laughs (Brandon roasting me is a given), tears (he’s been practicing his “10k views” cry!), and real-life gems about faith, resilience, and trusting God’s timing. Whether you’re navigating loss, chasing your dreams, or just trying to figure out your next step, this episode will leave you feeling seen and inspired.Tune in now for some laughs, some lessons, and a whole lotta love. And don’t forget—every Monday we drop audio on all platforms, and every Tuesday you can catch the visuals on YouTube. Let’s grow together! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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• Identity Crisis: Embracing My Authentic Self

  Hey you guys! It's your girl, B Simone, and welcome back to another episode of the 'Let's Try This Again' podcast! In this episode, we are diving deep into something that hit me like never before — an identity crisis. Now, if you know me, you know I have always loved my skin, my curls, my melanin, my juicy lips, and everything about being a Black woman. But recently, I found myself questioning it all, and I need to share this journey with you.It all started with a conversation my girl Connor had on a date with an NBA player who casually said he prefers dating white women because they are "easier to deal with." But he added, "You don't count because you look mixed." That one comment shook me to my core. I mean, here I was, 34 years old, never once doubting my beauty or my worth, and suddenly I found myself asking, "Am I too Black? Too urban? Are my braids too ghetto?" Y'all, these thoughts had NEVER been in my head before.As I got ready for my trip to Brazil, I kept overthinking everything. Am I dressing too Black? Will I fit in with these high-value men? It felt crazy because I had always walked confidently in who I am. But at that party in Brazil, surrounded by women who looked racially ambiguous, I felt it. The doubt. The questioning. And let me be clear — I wasn’t disrespected. Everyone was kind and welcoming. But perception is powerful, and for the first time, I felt like I didn’t fit in.But here's what I learned: My authenticity is my power. I didn't let those thoughts change who I was. I showed up as my loud, vibrant, braided, Black self because that is enough. And I want every Black woman listening to know that YOU are enough. Whether you're rocking colorful nails, big hair, or rocking your natural curls — show up as YOU.This episode is a reminder to confront those sneaky little thoughts that make us question our worth. Catch them before they turn into actions. Cast them down because we are more than society's beauty standards.Tune in now to Episode 51 of 'Let's Try This Again' and let's talk about it. New audio episodes drop every Monday, and visuals are up every Tuesday on YouTube. Follow us on Instagram @letstrythisagain for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. Love y'all so much!Stay authentic. Stay resilient. And remember, you are enough.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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