Curls & Courage

by Kensley Meeks

Season 2

Is Miami Actually Toxic? Elizabeth Mulkey on Dating, Social Media & Building Confidence

Hello my loves!! In this episode of Curls & Courage, I have an honest conversation with my girl Lizz the Shizzz- IFBB Bikini Pro, online fitness coach, model, and major beauty and wellness influencer! From moving to Miami and navigating its INSANE culture to building a personal brand online, Elizabeth shares how she's been able to stay true to herself while pursuing success in fitness, modeling, and social media! We talk about confidence, dating, entrepreneurship, and the bold mindset it takes to stop chasing money and start chasing purpose. I hope this episode leaves you feeling inspired! Thank you so much for listening! Connect with Liz: https://www.instagram.com/lizztheshizzz/?hl=en Connect with me: https://www.instagram.com/yoitskenslo/ https://www.instagram.com/curlsandcouragepodcast/ Business & 1:1 coaching inquiries: kensleymeeksfit@gmail.com Want to be a guest on my show? Please join the waiting list here. My YT Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@kensleymeeks WDJY 99.1 FM: Thursdays at 10am EDT https://www.wdjyfm.com/

S2 · E103

Jul 3, 2026

56:06

Pro Boxer Pierre Nance: What It Really Takes to Go All In on Your Dream

Hey guys!! In today's episode, I had the opportunity to sit down with a true GOAT: 6-0 professional boxer Pierre Nance (AKA Frenchie, AKA Certified Head Whoopa). This was an incredible conversation about discipline, sacrifice, risk, courage, and what it really takes to go all in on a dream. Frenchie shares his journey from a small town in Alabama to Miami, one of the most competitive and fast-paced cities in the world, as he pursues his career as a professional boxer. What I loved most about this conversation is that it gives you a real look into the mindset of an athlete competing at the highest level. He opens up about the realities of life in and out of the ring, the pressure that comes with being a professional fighter, staying focused despite distractions, and overcoming the challenges that come with chasing greatness! This episode offers valuable insights for anyone working towards a big goal that demands everything they've got! I hope this one inspires you in the same way it did me! Thank you so much for listening! Connect with Frenchie: https://www.instagram.com/frenchie256/?hl=en Connect with me: https://www.instagram.com/yoitskenslo/ https://www.instagram.com/curlsandcouragepodcast/ Business & 1:1 coaching inquiries: kensleymeeksfit@gmail.com Want to be a guest on my show? Please join the waiting list here. My YT Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@kensleymeeks WDJY 99.1 FM: Thursdays at 10am EDT https://www.wdjyfm.com/

S2 · E102

Jun 19, 2026

46:30

Karen Valencia: Why She Chose Art Over a 9-5

What's good my loves and welcome back to Curls & Courage! Today, I had the honor of sitting down with my friend and insanely talented tattoo artist, Valen. If there’s anyone who embodies courage, it’s this girl! Her journey is bold, inspiring, and completely her own. Society hands us a blueprint: Go to school. Get a 9–5. Play it safe. And you already know… respectfully, I'm not into that type shit lol. In this episode, Valen and I get real about what it actually takes to follow your passion — especially when it means going against expectations. We talk about risk, confidence, being misunderstood, and choosing authenticity over approval. Later, we get deep on humanity, vulnerability, identity, and the truth about what the “Miami lifestyle” actually looks like! I hope y'all love this episode and your support means the world for real! Connect with Valen: https://www.instagram.com/valen.inked/?hl=en Connect with me: https://www.instagram.com/yoitskenslo/ https://www.instagram.com/curlsandcouragepodcast/ Business & 1:1 coaching inquiries: kensleymeeksfit@gmail.com Want to be a guest on my show? Please join the waiting list here. My YT Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@kensleymeeks WDJY 99.1 FM: Thursdays at 10am EDT https://www.wdjyfm.com/

S2 · E101

Jun 5, 2026

47:13

Matteo Cagliano: What Miami Nightlife is Actually Like: Fashion, Networking, and Hustling

What's good guys!! In today’s episode, I’m sitting down with my friend Matteo Cagliano — creator, promoter, and entrepreneur constantly making moves. From fashion shows and swimwear launches to venue partnerships, hospitality, and production, Matteo shares what it really takes to build a brand and create opportunities in Miami. After modeling in Matteo’s recent fashion show for his swimwear brand, Mcgriddys, I had to learn more about the mindset, hustle, and courage behind his journey and everything he’s building! Miami nightlife is NOT always what it seems, and Matteo gives an honest look into the business behind the party scene. We discuss networking, entrepreneurship, nightlife culture, mental health, and the pressure that comes with constantly being “on” while chasing success in fast-paced industries. We talk about: How Matteo got started in fashion and nightlife The reality of working in Miami’s nightlife industry How to build your network and grow your social media Building and launching a swimwear brand from scratch The financial side of starting a personal brand Behind-the-scenes of fashion shows and production Mental health, pressure, and staying grounded in fast-paced environments This one seriously OPENED MY EYES... Hope you love it and thank you so much for listening! Come see me on the runway!! Fantasy Fashion Show Saturday, May 30th (Miami Swim Week Edition) at the Hardrock Casino in Hollywood, FL! https://www.hardrocknightlife.com/ Connect with Matteo: https://www.instagram.com/mcgriddysclubbuzz/ https://www.instagram.com/smproductionsllc_/ https://www.instagram.com/mcgriddys_modeling_agency/ Mcgriddy's Swimwear: https://www.instagram.com/mcgriddys_swimwear/ Connect with me: https://www.instagram.com/yoitskenslo/ https://www.instagram.com/curlsandcouragepodcast/ Business & 1:1 coaching inquiries: kensleymeeksfit@gmail.com Want to be a guest on my show? Please join the waiting list here. My YT Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@kensleymeeks WDJY 99.1 FM: Thursdays at 10am EDT https://www.wdjyfm.com/

S2 · E100

May 22, 2026

1:02:08

Hakeem Morillo: The Dark Realities of the Music Industry, Fame, and Social Media

What's good my loves!! In this episode of Curls & Courage, I sit down with Miami-based hip hop artist and entrepreneur Hakeem Morillo (HK) to have a real conversation about the music industry. We discuss the early stages of his career, starting from nothing to experiencing money, fame, freedom, and opportunity that ultimately changed him, but also began to break him. HK shares what most people don't actually see: the pressure, the loneliness, and the dark truths behind the "high-risk" lifestyle where perception often matters more than reality. We talk about: What it really takes to start from zero in the music industry How artists actually make money The reality behind “fake it till you make it” The connection between music, street money, and funding Social media growth, strategies, and validation The biggest mistakes artists make while trying to succeed Faith vs ego — and why it changes everything Staying disciplined and creative in a world full of distractions This episode blew my mind on multiple levels! If you're chasing a dream or building something new, this one is for YOU! Thank you so much for listening! Connect with Hakeem: https://www.instagram.com/hkgucciboy/ https://www.instagram.com/futureicons.academy/ Book a studio session: https://www.instagram.com/888hkstudio/ Connect with me: https://www.instagram.com/yoitskenslo/ https://www.instagram.com/curlsandcouragepodcast/ Business & 1:1 coaching inquiries: kensleymeeksfit@gmail.com Want to be a guest on my show? Please join the waiting list here. My YT Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@kensleymeeks WDJY 99.1 FM: Thursdays at 10am EDT https://www.wdjyfm.com/

S2 · E99

May 8, 2026

1:07:47

Etila Santiago: The Truth About Fitness Modeling, Confidence, and Building a Personal Brand

Hi my loves!! In today’s episode, I’m sitting down with IFBB Bikini Pro, model, fitness coach, and founder of Ettis Swim, Etila Santiago for a real and inspiring conversation on what it actually takes to build confidence, start over, and create a personal brand that stands out! Etila shares her journey of moving from Brazil to the United States, adapting to a completely new environment, and building a life and career from the ground up. She opens up about her experiences as a bikini competitor and working model, and how those paths led her into entrepreneurship—launching her own swimwear line designed to help women feel confident, sexy, and empowered! We talk about: Moving from Brazil to the U.S. & starting over Life in Miami & how environment shapes growth The reality of bikini competing & fitness culture Finding balance with training, nutrition & lifestyle Confidence in modeling & showing up on camera Growing a personal brand on social media Mistakes creators make when building a brand Launching a swimwear brand & becoming an entrepreneur Navigating risks, setbacks & personal growth. Thank you so much for listening and hope you love this episode! Connect with Etila: https://www.instagram.com/etila/?hl=en Ettis Swim: https://ettisswim.com/ Connect with me: https://www.instagram.com/yoitskenslo/ https://www.instagram.com/curlsandcouragepodcast/ Business & 1:1 coaching inquiries: kensleymeeksfit@gmail.com Want to be a guest on my show? Please join the waiting list here. My YT Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@kensleymeeks WDJY 99.1 FM: Thursdays at 10am EDT https://www.wdjyfm.com/

S2 · E98

Apr 24, 2026

54:08

Jodie Yuncker: From UPS Driver to Bikini Olympian | Overcoming an Eating Disorder & Taking Big Risks

What's good guys and hope y'all are feeling blessed! Today's episode is a REAL conversation with of my genuine girlfriends, Jodie Yuncker. Jodie is a 2x Bikini Olympian, online prep and transformation coach, creator, and entrepreneur — but more than all of that, she’s probably the realest person I’ve met in Miami. This episode is about discipline, identity, growth, and what it actually takes to build a body, a business, and a strong mindset without losing yourself in the process. We talk about: Jodie’s journey from beginner to 2x Bikini Olympian Overcoming an eating disorder & developing a healthy relationship with food Balancing bodybuilding, relationships, and business From UPS driver to full time online fitness coach Taking risks and trusting yourself Leg day secrets Training intensity & how to actually see results Handling criticism, doubt, and pressure We wrapped it up with an unfiltered random Q&A and yeah… she did NOT hold back lol. Hope you guys love this one and thanks for listening! Connect with Jodie: https://www.instagram.com/jodiejfit_ifbbpro/ Join team Ludachris: https://app.elitetrainr.com/register?organizationId=ludafit Connect with me: https://www.instagram.com/yoitskenslo/ https://www.instagram.com/curlsandcouragepodcast/ Business & 1:1 coaching inquiries: kensleymeeksfit@gmail.com Want to be a guest on my show? Please join the waiting list here. My YT Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@kensleymeeks WDJY 99.1 FM: Thursdays at 10am EDT https://www.wdjyfm.com/

S2 · E97

Apr 10, 2026

44:37

Viktor Drago: Why Fear Doesn't Exist- From World Champion to Multimillion-Dollar Empire

In today's episode, I sit down with Viktor Drago- 3 time world champion, pro boxer, entrepreneur, actor, and life coach to talk about fitness, entrepreneurship, mindset, and living without limits! We talk about his journey from world champion skier to pro boxer, how he built a multimillion-dollar empire, and the secrets behind growing a massive social media following with billions of views. Viktor shares his unfiltered perspective on mindset, philosophy, relationships, and lifestyle. This conversation will make you rethink fear, fulfillment, and what's truly possible! Thank you so much for listening and I hope you love it! Connect with Viktor: instagram.com/therealviktordrago info@viktordrago.com https://www.youtube.com/@ViktorDrago LOGAN PAUL VS. DRAGO https://youtu.be/-08S3q3S-Ks?si=9c9La0tB4683CzDV Viktor's #1 book recommendation: https://a.co/d/05B7ubDo Connect with me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/yoitskenslo/ https://www.instagram.com/curlsandcouragepodcast/ Business & 1:1 coaching inquiries: kensleymeeksfit@gmail.com Want to be a guest on my show? Please join the waiting list here. My YT Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@kensleymeeks WDJY 99.1 FM: Thursdays at 10am EDT https://www.wdjyfm.com/

S2 · E96

Mar 27, 2026

48:49

Broke in Puerto Rico: The Solo Trip That Changed My Life

What's good guys! I took a solo trip to Puerto Rico… and my card declined the first night. No cash. No food. Stranded on my “peaceful reset” vacation. In this episode of Curls & Courage, I’m sharing the full story — traveling solo to San Juan, what went wrong, what it taught me about burnout and self-trust, and why everyone should travel alone at least once.. If you’re feeling burned out, stuck in routine, or waiting on someone else to live your life — this is your sign to book the trip! Start the thing! Meet someone new! Life is too short and time is too expensive to keep postponing your own growth. Hope you guys love this one and thank you so much for listening! Connect with me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/yoitskenslo/ https://www.instagram.com/curlsandcouragepodcast/ Interested in 1:1 fitness and nutrition coaching? I'd love to help you! Business & coaching inquiries: kensleymeeksfit@gmail.com Want to be a guest on my show? Please join the waiting list here. My YT Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@kensleymeeks WDJY 99.1 FM: Thursdays at 10am EDT https://www.wdjyfm.com/ My favorite protein powder (literally saved me lol): https://1stphorm.com/products/vegan-power-pro/?a_aid=KensleyMeeks https://1stphorm.com/products/phormula-1-natural/?a_aid=KensleyMeeks https://1stphorm.com/products/phormula-1/?a_aid=KensleyMeeks

S2 · E95

Feb 26, 2026

31:23

Trash vs. Gas Fitness Advice: Carbs, PEDs, & Mindset

Let’s be honest… The fitness space is OVER-saturated. It’s an amazing industry, but sometimes it’s just doing way too much. So in today’s episode, I’m helping you separate the bad from the good gym hot takes in a game I like to call “Trash vs. Gas.” TRASH = misleading, overhyped, straight-up garbage advice that needs to die. GAS = effective, necessary, solid advice that actually produces real results. I'm breaking down nutrition, supplements, performance-enhancing drugs, training, and mindset — so you can actually GET THE GAINS. I hope you love this one and thanks so much for listening! Connect with me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/yoitskenslo/ https://www.instagram.com/curlsandcouragepodcast/ Interested in 1:1 fitness and nutrition coaching? I'd love to help you! Business & coaching inquiries: kensleymeeksfit@gmail.com Want to be a guest on my show? Please join the waiting list here. My YT Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@kensleymeeks WDJY 99.1 FM: Thursdays at 10am EDT https://www.wdjyfm.com/

S2 · E94

Feb 12, 2026

18:48

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