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Urban and Pop Culture and Lifestyle Blog
Shalena Speaks is a personal urban and pop culture and lifestyle blog that covers current and past events, with a focus on informing, empowering, and educating its audience. With a unique perspective and a desire to bring one's whole self to the table, this blog is a platform for self-expression and discovery. From personal interests to the latest in urban and pop culture, Shalena Speaks is a one-stop destination for inspiration and advice, brought to you by a serial entrepreneur who is passionate about all things urban and pop culture. Explore the site to see what's been cooking and find your own source of inspiration.
URBAN CULTURE
Discover the latest in street art, urban fashion, and the social trends that are defining the heartbeat of the city.
POP CULTURE
Stay on the pulse of pop culture with updates on trending music, film, and celebrity news.
MENTAL HEALTH
Dive into discussions on self-care, overcoming stress, and personal growth stories to inspire your wellness journey.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
From nutrition to holistic practices, this section provides all you need for physical and mental well-being in a bustling city environment.
#EXTRA EXTRA KNOW ALL ABOUT IT
Kick back and stay informed with the Inform and Chill section, where relaxation meets enlightenment. Here, you’ll find a laid-back approach to catching up on the latest urban news, insightful documentaries, and thought-provoking discussions. Perfect for those moments when you want to unwind but also engage with meaningful content. Grab your favorite snack, get comfortable, and let us bring the world to you in the most chill way possible.
Entertainment
Get your dose of entertainment buzz on Shalena Speaks! I'm talking the hottest updates from the world of urban entertainment, including must-watch movies, trending TV shows, and exciting live events. Dive behind the scenes for exclusive peeks and reviews that keep you in the loop. Whether it's a blockbuster hit or a niche play, find your entertainment fix and stay ahead of the curve.
MENTAL HEALTH
Prioritize your well-being with the Mental Health section on Shalena Speaks. This vital space is dedicated to discussing mental health issues, offering support, and providing resources within the urban community. Explore articles on self-care, stress reduction, and coping mechanisms that cater specifically to the unique challenges faced in urban environments. From expert advice to personal stories of resilience and recovery, this section empowers you to take charge of your mental health and find balance amidst the hustle of city life.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Nurture your body and mind with the Health and Wellness section on Shalena Speaks. Explore topics on mental health, urban nutrition, and holistic practices designed to thrive in the hustle and bustle of city life. From stress management tips to wellness trends, our articles help you maintain your health and vitality. Embrace a balanced urban life and find your path to wellness.
LIFESTYLE
Discover the essence of urban living with the Lifestyle section on Shalena Speaks. From the latest in street fashion to cutting-edge tech gadgets and city travel secrets, this segment is your guide to the stylish side of the city. Get insider tips on urban decor and how to maximize your living space in style. Whether you're a city dweller or an urban enthusiast, find your vibe and embrace the dynamic urban lifestyle here.
MUSIC
Tune into the Urban & Pop Culture Music section on Shalena Speaks to catch the latest and greatest in both urban and mainstream pop music. From chart-topping hits to underground gems, this section explores the intersection where urban vibes meet pop culture. Discover new artists, album reviews, and exclusive interviews that showcase the diversity and dynamism of these influential music genres. Whether you're a fan of smooth R&B, energetic pop, or the seamless blend of both, stay updated and in tune with the sounds shaping our cultural landscape.
Shalena Speaking
It's my opinion and what about it? LOL!
THE DEETS
Twitch’s Slap on the Wrist: The Zoe Spencer and Nina Lin Incident with Silky’s Assistant “Said
Twitch streaming—where entertainment and reality collide in unpredictable ways—few stories have shaken the platform like the resurfaced incident involving streamers Zoe Spencer and Nina Lin. What began as a “playful” IRL collaboration in May 2024 has reignited outrage in October 2025, revealing deep cracks in Twitch’s moral foundation and reigniting debates about consent, gender double standards, and accountability in digital spaces.
At the heart of the controversy is FaZe
2 days ago4 min read
Tyler Perry Donates $100K to Bishop Marvin Winans' Church Following Viral Video
When the cameras roll inside the Black church, the results can be unpredictable — sometimes inspiring, sometimes explosive. But few moments have lit up social media this fall like the now-viral video from Bishop Marvin Winans’ Perfecting Church in Detroit.
In that clip, recorded during the congregation’s annual “Day of Giving,” Bishop Winans appears to scold a church member who stepped forward with a $1,235 donation after he called for $2,000 pledges. “That is only $1,200 …
2 days ago4 min read
AT&T and AWS Outages Hit Major U.S. Cities
This morning, millions of Americans woke up to what felt like a digital blackout. Phones wouldn’t connect. Apps wouldn’t load. Websites froze mid-transaction. Around 8 a.m. ET, major connectivity disruptions began rippling across the country, affecting AT&T and Amazon Web Services (AWS) — two of the most critical pillars of U.S. communications and cloud infrastructure.
5 days ago4 min read
Understanding Schizophrenia: The Silent Battle Too Many Misunderstand
Schizophrenia. Even hearing the word can stir discomfort, fear, confusion. For many, it’s wrapped in myths: “split personality,” unpredictable danger, permanent incapacity. But the reality is deeper, more complex—and more human. In communities like mine, we talk about hustle, survival, trauma, resilience—but we often don’t talk about severe mental illness the way we do physical illness. And that omission comes at a cost.
If you are reading this and you—or someone you love—
5 days ago9 min read
When the Internet Turns Cruel: Fat-Shaming, Classism, and the Online Bullying of the Mentally Ill and Disabled
The internet was supposed to be our great equalizer — a place where everyone, no matter who they are or where they come from, could speak freely and connect without limits. But somewhere between the hashtags and the highlight reels, it became something darker.
Today, online spaces have turned into breeding grounds for cruelty — a digital arena where people tear each other apart for likes, retweets, and viral moments. From fat-shaming and classism to the mocking of mental ill
7 days ago4 min read
What Really Happens to the Economy During a Government Shutdown
When Washington Shuts Down, America Slows Down
Every time Congress plays political tug-of-war over the federal budget, the economy takes a deep breath — and then holds it. A government shutdown isn’t just a headline; it’s a full-blown economic disruption that ripples from the halls of D.C. to small-town grocery stores.
When the federal government shuts down, it’s because lawmakers can’t agree on how to fund operations. That means “nonessential” government workers are furlou
7 days ago4 min read
Gang Stalking : How Fear, Fan Bases, and Online Power Turn Paranoia into Reality
There’s a really dark corner of the internet where fear meets technology and people whisper about something called “gang stalking.”
It’s a phrase that has taken over forums, TikToks, and YouTube channels, where thousands claim they’re being followed, tracked, or harassed by organized groups. They call themselves “Targeted Individuals” (TIs) — victims of coordinated psychological warfare meant to destroy their lives.
Skeptics call it delusion. Supporters call it evidenc
Oct 236 min read
Cardi B Addresses Armon Wiggins in Explosive X Spaces Rant: “I Know Exactly Where You Live”
The internet is still buzzing after Cardi B’s 40-minute X Spaces rant aimed squarely at YouTuber and blogger Armon Wiggins (@ArmonWiggins) — and this time, she didn’t just clap back with words. She dropped receipts, warnings, and even a thinly veiled threat that she “knows exactly where [he] lives.”
The viral tirade, captured and archived across YouTube and X, has reignited conversations about celebrity boundaries, blogger accountability, and Cardi’s volatile history with
Oct 234 min read
The Death of Keisha Hilliard in Mesquite, Texas: Timeline and Investigation
On October 12, 2025, 42-year-old Keisha Yvonne Hilliard was found dead in her Mesquite, Texas home during a police welfare checkfacebook.com. Mesquite police discovered Hilliard’s body that Sunday afternoon, and the Dallas County Medical Examiner later confirmed her identity and determined she had died from a gunshot woundwfaa.com. Her death was officially ruled a homicide, prompting a Mesquite Police Department investigationwfaa.com. In the days and weeks that followed, Hill
Oct 2315 min read
Nicki Minaj's Unfiltered Spaces Session: Talks Industry Distractions and Personal Boundaries
When Nicki Minaj speaks, the world listens—especially when she’s unfiltered, unbothered, and unapologetically raw. On October 22, 2025, the rap icon took to X Spaces for a candid, 28-minute session that’s already causing tremors throughout the music industry. The conversation, now preserved and replayed over 5,000 times, wasn’t just another celebrity rant—it was a dissection of how the industry manipulates narratives, distracts fans with chaos, and distorts authenticity for c
Oct 234 min read
Gucci Mane’s Mental Health Journey: From “The Trap” to Therapy — and the Woman Who Saved Him
When Radric Davis—better known as Gucci Mane—first stormed the hip-hop scene, he was pure Atlanta energy: raw, rebellious, and untouchably confident. But behind the fame and flash lived a man quietly fighting for his sanity.
In his powerful 2025 memoir Episodes: The Diary of a Recovering Mad Man (Simon & Schuster, co-written with journalist Kathy Iandoli), Gucci strips away the armor to reveal the truth: decades of addiction, trauma, and untreated mental illness that almos
Oct 216 min read
Why Streamlining Your Business Matters — And How Companies Like One Connections LLC Make It Make Sense
Let’s be honest—running a business these days is not for the faint of heart. Between answering calls, scheduling appointments, keeping clients happy, and trying to actually do the work, it can feel like you’re running a call center instead of running your dream.
That’s exactly why companies like One Connections LLC exist—to take the busywork off your plate so you can focus on what really matters: growth, clients, and peace of mind.
And here’s the best part—it’s not about re
Oct 213 min read
Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe Hearty Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
When the cold weather sets in or you're simply in the mood for something warm and soothing, nothing compares to a homemade chicken pot pie. This comforting dish blends tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, all enveloped in a flaky, golden crust. In this post, we will walk you through the steps to create a chicken pot pie that will not only warm you up but also tantalize your taste buds. A freshly baked chicken pot pie with a flaky crust and bubbling f
Oct 214 min read
The $40 Billion Bailout Nobody Asked For: Why Trump’s Argentina Deal Has Everyone Talking
While millions of Americans are struggling through a government shutdown, the Trump administration just handed out a jaw-dropping $40 billion bailout to Argentina.
Yes, forty billion dollars — not million. And it’s sparking outrage from Capitol Hill to Main Street.
The announcement, made on October 15, 2025, was framed as a “strategic move” to stabilize Argentina’s collapsing economy under its far-right president Javier Milei. But many see it for what it really is: a poli
Oct 214 min read
Promoting Mental Health Awareness Effectively
Mental health is a vital part of overall well-being, yet it often remains overlooked or misunderstood. Promoting mental health effectively requires thoughtful strategies that engage communities, reduce stigma, and provide accessible resources. This article explores practical approaches to mental health promotion, offering actionable recommendations to foster a supportive environment for everyone.
Oct 204 min read
KISS Legend Ace Frehley Dies at 74 Following Brain Bleed from Fall
KISS Legend Ace Frehley Dies at 74 Following Brain Bleed from Fall
Rock & roll has lost one of its cosmic pioneers. Ace Frehley — the legendary co-founder and original lead guitarist of KISS, best known as the band’s “Spaceman” — has died at age 74 after suffering a brain bleed caused by a recent fall, according to multiple reports confirmed by Variety, Rolling Stone, and USA Today on October 16, 2025.
The news was first shared in a statement linked through Frehley’s offici
Oct 162 min read
Yolonda E. Lawrence Dies at 56: Celebrating the Quiet Power Behind ‘Empire,’ ‘Riverdale,’ and ‘The Good Wife’
Hollywood has lost one of its most quietly powerful voices.Yolonda E. Lawrence, a veteran television writer and producer whose credits include Empire, Riverdale, and The Good Wife, has died at the age of 56 in Los Angeles. The news was confirmed by her family earlier this week.
While the exact cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, tributes from across the television community poured in, remembering Lawrence as a storyteller who brought both heart and heat to every
Oct 163 min read
Florida Teen Fakes His Own Kidnapping, Blames Four Hispanic Men — and Now Faces Felony Charges
Marion County, Florida — October 2025.A small Central Florida town is reeling after a 17-year-old boy allegedly staged his own abduction, then claimed he’d been kidnapped and shot by four Hispanic men — a story that law enforcement quickly discovered was a total fabrication.
The Alleged Kidnapping
On the night of October 13, deputies from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office responded to an emergency call reporting that a teen had been found with a gunshot wound near his fa
Oct 164 min read
The U.S. vs China: Inside the 2025 Trade War That Could Change Everything
The United States has officially entered a full-blown trade war with China — again. But this time, it’s not just about tariffs and tweets. It’s about power, technology, and the future of who runs the global economy.
And baby, the tension is thicker than ever.
Oct 164 min read
NBC News Quietly Dismantles Its Black, Asian American, Latino, and LGBTQ+ Coverage Teams — What This Means for Representation, Trust, and the Future of Journalism
NBC News Quietly Dismantles Its Black, Asian American, Latino, and LGBTQ+ Coverage Teams — What This Means for Representation, Trust, and the Future of Journalism
In a move that has stunned journalists, media-watchers, and readers alike, NBC News has eliminated its dedicated coverage teams for Black, Asian American, Latino, and LGBTQ+ audiences as part of a sweeping round of 150 layoffs, representing nearly 7% of the company’s 2,000-person digital and news workforce.
The
Oct 156 min read
Lourdiz Breaks Her Silence on the Cruelty of Cyberbullying
When singer-songwriter Lourdiz opened her phone to see her own death trending online, her first reaction wasn’t anger — it was disbelief. Then came the shaking hands. Then the heartbreak.
“First of all, I’m alive... but I’m shaking while typing this because this is a whole different level of disturbing,” she wrote in a now-viral Instagram story. “My spirit isn’t sitting right with it right now.”
Her post, written with raw emotion and trembling honesty, is more than a celebr
Oct 156 min read
A Georgia Family 8 Dead, Including 5 Children and a Pregnant Mother, After Semi Follows Too Close on I-85
A Georgia Family 8 Dead, Including 5 Children and a Pregnant Mother, After Semi Follows Too Close on I-85
Oct 153 min read
Solange Knowles Makes History as USC Thornton School of Music’s First Scholar in Residence
When Solange Knowles said, “I’m not just an artist — I’m an archivist, a curator, and a student of sound,” she meant it. The University of Southern California clearly agrees.
In a move that blends the worlds of art, academia, and activism, the USC Thornton School of Music has appointed Solange Knowles as its first-ever all-school Scholar in Residence. The three-year appointment marks a powerful cultural shift, recognizing the intellectual and historical value of Black art, c
Oct 153 min read
$50K Hits, Chicago Gangs, and the Cartel Connection: Inside DHS’s Chilling New Warning!
$50K Hits, Chicago Gangs, and the Cartel Connection: Inside DHS’s Chilling New Warning!
Oct 154 min read
World Mental Health Month: The Silent Struggle and the Journey Back to Ourselves
Every October, we see the same green ribbons and slogans: “It’s okay not to be okay.” But what happens when even saying you’re not okay feels dangerous, weak, or out of reach? What happens when you’re carrying generations of pain that nobody ever gave you permission to name?
Oct 145 min read
Chicago Woman Charged in Death of 2-Month-Old Boy: A Community Shocked and Searching for Answers
In a deeply tragic case that has shaken a South Side neighborhood, 31-year-old Andrea Thomas has been charged with one felony count of child endangerment after a 2-month-old baby boy was found unresponsive inside her home earlier this week.
According to Chicago Police, officers were called to a residence in the Englewood area after receiving a report of an unresponsive infant. Paramedics arrived on scene and rushed the child to Comer Children’s Hospital, where he was late
Oct 144 min read
Eight More Mental Health Workers Charged in Widespread Abuse Scandal at Muckamore Hospital
Mental health has always been close to my heart — not as a buzzword, but as a reality that touches nearly every family, every friend group, and every community I know.We talk about healing, therapy, and support — yet behind the closed doors of too many institutions, that compassion vanishes. What happens when the people we trust to care become the ones who harm?
Oct 144 min read
Alex Jones LOSES ! Supreme Court Tells Him “You’re Done!” and Honestly, GOOD.
Let’s keep it real — Alex Jones is the worst kind of loudmouth: the kind who profits off other people’s pain. And now? Karma finally caught up.
The U.S. Supreme Court just slammed the door on his $1.4 billion appeal — yes, billion with a B — leaving him to choke on the mess he made. For years, he called the Sandy Hook shooting a “hoax,” mocked grieving parents, and used their tragedy for views, followers, and profit. Now the highest court in the land just said, you’re done
Oct 141 min read
Mississippi Homecoming Turns Deadly: Four Arrested After Leland Mass Shooting Leaves Six Dead and Over 20 Injured
What should’ve been a joyful weekend celebrating high school pride turned into one of Mississippi’s deadliest nights in recent memory. On October 11, 2025, a mass shooting erupted in Leland, Mississippi, just after a local high school homecoming football game—leaving six people dead and more than 20 wounded.
Oct 143 min read
Alec Baldwin Crashes His Wife’s Range Rover in East Hampton — But Here’s What Really Happened
Hollywood veteran Alec Baldwin found himself in the headlines again — but this time, it wasn’t for a courtroom appearance or a new film role. According to police reports and dashcam footage, Baldwin crashed his wife Hilaria’s white Range Rover into a tree along Main Street in East Hampton after veering off-road to avoid a collision with a commercial truck.
Oct 143 min read
Nicki Minaj’s $20 Million Hidden Hills Mansion Faces Court-Ordered Sale Over Unpaid Debt?
Nicki Minaj, one of the most influential and wealthiest female rappers in the world, is facing an unexpected legal battle that could put her $20 million Los Angeles mansion on the line. According to an exclusive report from Us Weekly, a motion has been filed in L.A. court seeking to force the sale of her Hidden Hills estate to settle a six-figure debt owed to a former employee.
Oct 142 min read
The Texas State Fair’s Hidden History
Every fall, millions of Texans line up under the Ferris wheel lights at Fair Park for funnel cakes, Big Tex selfies, and that greasy-good fried-everything culture. But beneath the laughter, turkey legs, and marching bands lies a story that Dallas doesn’t talk about loud enough—the Texas State Fairgrounds were once a Ku Klux Klan recruitment site.
Yep, the same grounds that now host the State Fair Classic, where Grambling State and Prairie View A&M’s drumlines shake the stadi
Oct 143 min read
Family Statement Confirms the Passing of Neo-Soul Legend D’Angelo at 51
The family of neo-soul icon D’Angelo (Michael Eugene Archer) has confirmed that the beloved artist passed away on October 14, 2025, at the age of 51, following a private battle with pancreatic cancer.
In a heartfelt statement shared with multiple outlets, including Rolling Stone and The New York Times, the family wrote:
Oct 142 min read
Crypto Meltdown 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Spark $19 Billion Crash and a Tragic Death in the Trading World
When President Donald Trump announced 100% tariffs on all Chinese imports, effective November 1, 2025, he didn’t just reignite an old trade war — he detonated a financial earthquake. Within hours, $19.3 billion vanished from global crypto markets, marking what analysts are calling the largest single-day liquidation event in history.
The Crash Heard Around the World
According to CCN.com (October 11, 2025), the sudden tariff declaration sent shockwaves across every asset cl
Oct 124 min read
Dan Scavino Takes Charge of Trump’s Presidential Personnel Office as Administration Tightens Loyalty Circles
President Donald Trump announced that longtime aide Dan Scavino will assume leadership of the White House Presidential Personnel Office (PPO) — a powerful division responsible for vetting and recommending appointees across the federal government. Scavino, who has served as Trump’s Deputy Chief of Staff and social media strategist since the 1990s, will retain his current role while taking on this additional responsibility.
Scavino replaces Sergio Gor, who has been nominated
Oct 122 min read
Japan’s TRG-035 Drug Could Regrow Human Teeth by 2030
For decades, dentists have told us that once your adult teeth are gone, they’re gone for good. Crowns, implants, and dentures have been our only options — until now.But in Japan, a team of researchers at Kyoto University and Kitano Hospital is rewriting dental history with something straight out of a sci-fi movie: a drug that could make your body regrow its own teeth.
Oct 124 min read
Former President Joe Biden Begins Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer
When news broke that former President Joe Biden had begun radiation therapy for prostate cancer, the world paused — not just because it’s a major health update about a former Commander-in-Chief, but because it’s another reminder that even presidents can’t out-run the battles of aging, illness, and mortality.
According to official reports confirmed by NBC News, Reuters, and The Guardian, Biden’s medical team has started a five-week radiation treatment plan, combined with ongo
Oct 124 min read
Texas Teacher Files Police Report After Students Steal $300 Hello Kitty Funko Pop — and the Internet Has Thoughts
When high school teacher Jasmine Seals walked into her Texas classroom last week, she didn’t expect a viral moment — but that’s exactly what happened after she filed a police report over a stolen Hello Kitty Funko Pop valued at $300.
The collectible, which she says was a gift from a former student and carried deep sentimental value, went missing from her desk during a routine class period. Seals says she gave students multiple chances to “make it right” even offering amnes
Oct 112 min read
Diane Keaton, Hollywood’s Fearless Icon, Dies at 79 — Cause of Death Unclear
Hollywood is in mourning today after confirmation that Diane Keaton, the Oscar-winning actress who made eccentricity elegant and individuality iconic, has died at age 79.
Her death was confirmed Saturday by Variety, Rolling Stone, and TMZ. As of publication, the cause of death remains unclear. Representatives for the actress have not yet released an official statement, though sources close to the family confirm that Keaton passed away peacefully in Los Angeles.
Oct 113 min read
Cheryl “Salt” James Shuts Down Viral Lies: The Truth Behind the Gavin Wray
When it comes to hip-hop legends, Cheryl “Salt” James of Salt-N-Pepa has always stood on integrity, faith, and authenticity. But even icons aren’t safe from the wildfire of internet gossip — and this week, Salt found herself forced to address a disturbing rumor head-on.
In a 71-second video posted to Instagram, Salt looked directly into the camera, calm yet clearly frustrated, to address the false claims circulating online. The rumor? That she allegedly accused her ex-husban
Oct 113 min read
INDE AQUAFINA
Things are heating up online after indie rapper Inde Aquafinaa
doubled down on claims that Cardi B allegedly lifted the beat from her 2024 single “Five Star Chick” for Cardi’s newest release.
Indeaquafina called out Bobby Lytes, who seemingly chimed in on the situation after industry chatter began circulating. Lytes commented “Girl” under a viral thread discussing the claims, prompting Inde Aquafina to repost and respond, “Not you trynna say something bobbylytes.”
Oct 101 min read
The Real Reason Mental Health Is Getting Worse
Something is shifting in the air. You can feel it in the workplace when half the team looks like they’re running on fumes. You can feel it in the group chats when everyone goes quiet at once. You can see it in the mirror — that heavy, tired look that no amount of sleep seems to fix.
Mental health in late 2025 has reached a boiling point. Not because we suddenly “care less” about ourselves — but because the world around us keeps getting heavier, louder, and faster.
We’ve
Oct 106 min read
World Mental Health Day 2025: The Truth About Healing When the World Is Still Hurting
Every October 10th, the world pauses for World Mental Health Day. You’ll see the green ribbons, the hashtags, and those perfectly filtered “take care of yourself” posts. Everyone suddenly becomes an advocate for a day — and then the next morning, the internet moves on.
But what happens to the people who can’t move on? The ones still sitting in silence, scrolling through motivational quotes while fighting tears they can’t explain?
Let’s be real: we’ve reached a point whe
Oct 108 min read
The Letitia James Indictment: When Justice Turns Political
When New York Attorney General Letitia James made headlines for leading the civil fraud case against Donald Trump — a case that cost him over $450 million in penalties and reshaped how America views financial accountability among the powerful — she became both a hero and a target. Now, in a twist that feels more like a political thriller than a court docket, James herself is facing federal mortgage fraud charges, accused of misrepresenting her residence on a home loan applica
Oct 94 min read
Bernie Sanders Warns of “Authoritarian Takeover” of Media as Trump Allies Consolidate Power
In a blistering statement shared to his official X account this week, Senator Bernie Sanders issued a stark warning about what he called an “authoritarian takeover of American media,” pointing directly at former President Donald Trump’s ongoing lawsuits against major news outlets and the growing concentration of media ownership among his billionaire allies.
Sanders’ post called attention to Trump’s recent legal actions targeting The New York Times, ABC News, and other outlet
Oct 93 min read
Drake vs. Kendrick Federal Judge Rules “Not Like Us” Was Opinion, Not Defamation
The war of words between Aubrey Drake Graham and Kendrick Lamar Duckworth began as music’s biggest lyrical feud in years. But by the fall of 2025, it had evolved into something much larger: a federal court battle testing how far artistic freedom can go before it collides with defamation law.
On October 9, 2025, U.S. District Judge Jeannette A. Vargas of the Southern District of New York officially dismissed Drake’s defamation and business-law claims against Universal Music
Oct 94 min read
“I Ain’t Dead Yet!” Dolly Parton Silences Death Rumors After Sister’s Post Sparks Panic Online
For the second time this year, the internet has prematurely tried to bury a living legend.But in true Dolly Parton fashion, the 79-year-old country icon shut the rumors down with humor, sparkle, and Southern sass — reminding the world that she’s still very much alive, kicking, and as radiant as ever.
On Monday, Dolly took to social media with a video captioned “I ain’t dead yet!” showing her vibrant and full of energy on the Grand Ole Opry set alongside fellow country star
Oct 93 min read
Freedom of Speech Is Under Attack: Real Voices of Reason and Truth Are Being Silenced
Freedom of speech is supposed to be the backbone of America — the one right that levels the playing field between the powerful and the powerless. But in 2025, it’s becoming clear that the people with the loudest microphones aren’t always the ones telling the truth — and the ones daring to speak it are being silenced, deplatformed, fired, or dragged through the mud.
This isn’t a partisan argument. It’s a human one. Across the United States, educators, journalists, entertainer
Oct 96 min read
Why the Trades Are the Real Money Moves in 2025
Once upon a time, everyone told you to “go to college, get a degree, and you’ll be set for life.” Fast forward to 2025 and that degree isn’t always paying the bills. Meanwhile, plumbers, welders, and HVAC techs are out here quietly stacking six figures with no student loans in sight. Let’s talk about it.
The Trade Boom No One’s Talking About
The United States is facing a massive skilled labor shortage — and the gap is only getting wider. After decades of pushing white-co
Oct 93 min read
The Ebony Alert: California’s Groundbreaking System to Protect Missing Black Youth
When a Black child goes missing, the world often stays silent. Their stories rarely make national headlines, their faces don’t go viral, and too often, law enforcement labels them as “runaways” rather than victims in danger. That’s the painful reality that led to the creation of the Ebony Alert, a first-of-its-kind system launched in California to bring urgency and awareness to missing Black youth and young women.
Oct 93 min read
"Empower your mind, engage your spirit, and connect with the culture — because every voice matters and every story shapes our world." -ShalenaSpeaks
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OUR COMMUNITY SPEAKS.
Breaking the Silence: How Urban Communities are Redefining Mental Health Advocacy
Mental health has historically been a topic shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding, particularly in urban communities where the pressures o
Finding Peace in the Chaos: How to De-Stress on National Stress Awareness Day
Hey there! Today is National Stress Awareness Day—a day dedicated to pressing pause and taking stock of how we’re really feeling. Life can f
The Healing Power of Hip-Hop
Music has long been recognized as a powerful tool for healing, and in recent years, hip-hop has emerged as a crucial force in mental health
Hip-Hop and Mental Health
In recent years, the hip-hop community has become a powerful voice for mental health advocacy. Once a genre known for its focus on grit and
How to Use Simple Tools to Rebuild Your Credit: A Guide
Rebuilding your credit can seem overwhelming, but with the right tools and knowledge, it's more manageable than you think. The Fair Credit R
Starting Your Dreams Without Assistance: My Journey to Self-Investment (Part 2: Credit!)
Starting Your Dreams Without Assistance: My Journey to Self-Investment (Part 2: Credit!)
Let me tell you something: I never expected to be
Starting Your Dreams Without Assistance: My Journey to Self-Investment
I never imagined I'd be steering my own ship, let alone inspired to help others do the same. For the longest time, I thought I’d retire at s
Homelessness in America: A Call to Action for Our Veterans
It’s mind-boggling to think that the brave men and women who put their lives on the line for our freedoms come home to find themselves witho
The Untold Story of Strength: Mental Health in the Black Community
As a Black woman, I’ve often found myself bearing the weight of the world with a smile on my face, told time and again how "strong" I am. It
The Complex Interplay of Wealth, Taxes, and Inflation Wars.
My latest blog post delves into the complex interplay of wealth, taxes, and inflation wars. The decline in resources, coupled with a lack...
The Media Crisis
There was a time when the media played a vital role in uniting us as a country. It kept us informed, grounded, and aware of the issues that
The Role of Religion in My Life and Its Decline in Society
Religion has played a profound role in shaping my identity, my values, and the way I interact with the world. Through faith, I have develope
Financial Power: 5 Personal and 5 Business Credit Tips
Are you ready to take control of your financial future? Whether you're focused on improving your personal credit or building a rock-solid bu
Why Starting a Business Makes More Sense in This World...
Hey, Listen, if you’ve been sittin’ around wondering whether it’s the right time to start your own business, let me tell you somethin’—there
Black Men and Women: Rebuilding Unity and Love in Our Community
As a Black woman, it’s heartbreaking to see the growing divide between Black men and Black women in America. There’s an undeniable shift in
The Income Crisis in America
As a U.S. citizen living in Texas, I never imagined that I would be grappling with financial insecurity despite being considered middle clas
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