The primary objective of The Inky comet is to offer nuanced perspectives to existing conversations about Blackness. Blackness in and of itself is incredibly complex, and we do ourselves a disservice when we simplify our experience. We can build our stamina and capacity to have difficult but necessary conversations within the Black community by increasing our empathy and understanding of experiences different than our own.  We should practice this in all of our relationships, but especially as it relates to Blackness.  This episode features Michelle Adzido.

Why Nuance Within the Black Experience is Important

In this episode, Nia speaks with her sister Dr. Natalie Lewis about our ancestral power and narrative as Black Americans. Through sharing stories about their experiences studying abroad in West Africa, they unpack the power and magic in the ancestry of kidnapped Africans who birthed a nation after the horrors of the middle passage.

Black Americans, Our Birthright Is Divine!

In this episode, Nia and Michelle, explore the idea that in our personal relationships, there is an opportunity to establish a  social contract that outlines  guidelines for the interaction and treatment of Black people globally.

Do Black People Need a Social Contract?

Throughout this summer we have seen countless examples of how the “Strong Black woman Trope '' harms the collective’s ability to show up for Black women in our time of need. In this episode, Nia and Khadija explore the trope of the black women in our own lives and think creatively about how we can create space for Black women to express their full humanity.

What Being Strong Means to Black Women

At its best, cancel culture is our attempt to hold public figures accountable for their actions and establish collective values. It attempts to introduce the concept of accountability to a society that rarely acknowledges when wrongdoing occurs and refuses to offer a genuine apology. In this episode, Antoinette and Nia explore how the idea of public accountability can strengthen the Black community.

How Cancel Culture Makes Us Better

We are in the midst of a Black Renaissance. Similar to the giants who came before us, we are reflecting, discussing, envisioning, and manifesting more. We are crafting a reality that is different from what is currently present.  In this episode, Antoinette and I discuss what it means for Black people to actively own our culture and intentionally create art with a specific vision of the future in mind.

A Love Letter To Black Futures

After a short hiatus, The Inky Comet is back! In this episode, Nia and her dear friend Jack talk shit about generally all things. It's a great laugh if nothing else!

Talking Shit w/ Jack - Vol. 1

Single and childless at 32 is definitely not what little Nia had in mind when she envisioned her future; nevertheless,  joy and love (among many other things) are abundant in my current reality.  In this episode, I'm joined by Marley, the OG Inky Comet producer/cheerleading captain, to discuss life after her nearly 8-year relationship, healing, and staying open to new love.  It's a lighthearted listen, I pinky promise <3 :*

32 Single with No Kids - Marley

In this episode, I'm joined by corporate baddie @MizzVickay. We explore our Mississippi roots and how the love that drove our ancestors to brighter pastures is the same love that inspires our modern-day adventures.

Mississippi Love

In this episode,  my sister Nicole joins me to share her experience as a mother of two Black boys. We talk about motherhood and some of the things related to raising Black children.

Dear Mama: Reflections on Black Motherhood

It's hard to keep the faith when you're in a difficult moment. And sometimes, it's even harder to acknowledge the abundance that is also present. Original Inky Comet Star Tyler joins this episode to share her journey as a single mother.

Keeping the Faith When Your Life Feels Like a Trope

The lovely Antoinette (@justantoinette) is back in the stu, and we couldn't be any more excited. In this episode, we mostly talk about the crazy behavior of our world leaders and the lack of response to a changing world. It's a lovely listen to get you fired up!

We're Almost Halfway Thru 2023 And It's Getting Hectic

Season 8 of The Inky Comet starts May 14 through July! Tune in to hear what's new from the host, Nia Marie :)

Season 8 Trailer

In this episode, Nia discusses the unspoken ways Black people have to manage perceptions of their identity.

S8 Black Ain't Never Wrong - Managing Perceptions of Blackness

In this episode, Nia discusses the potential for social media to be a productive space for public discourse. Tune in to discover how embracing new forms of communication can help reshape cultural norms and create space for honest dialogue.

S8 Open Forum - Social Media As A Platform For Public Discourse

In this episode, Nia delves into the complexities of grief during times of transition and highlights the healing power of friendship.

S8 Grief, Transitions, And Friendship

In this episode, we delve into the rich history and enduring impact of education in the Black community. By revisiting and uplifting the educational legacies of our ancestors, we seek guidance and inspiration for today's approaches to liberation and empowerment. Join us as we explore how the wisdom and efforts of those who came before us can illuminate our path forward in the ongoing struggle for freedom and equity.

S8 Legacy Of Knowledge: Education as a Path to Freedom

In this thought-provoking episode, Nia delves into the rapidly growing trend of cosmetic surgery and its normalization in today’s society. Tune in for an insightful conversation that challenges the status quo and encourages mindful choices about cosmetic surgery.

S8 Beyond the Knife: Rethinking the Cosmetic Surgery Craze

In this episode, Nia is joined by Harlem-born artist Turtle. He shares about his early start, and continuing to create after experiencing loss. This is an episode on Black Men's mental health that you don't want to miss.

S8 Turtle Musings: An Artist's Reflection On His Journey To Manhood And Love

2024 has been a tough year, both personally and collectively. In this episode, Nia is joined by Antoinette and Vicky, who share their experiences with career shifts, personal transformation, and the trailblazing path of being a single childless woman in her 30s.  Pull up a seat and get this healing!

S8 Group Therapy with Antoinette and Vicky

This episode focuses on the social isolation of black folks. Through the narratives of three black women, we explore the many forms isolation can take.

Episode 1: One Is The Magic Number

Why love? This week The Inky Comet kicks of a three part series exploring this very question. Different storytellers share their experiences with seeking love. 

If you're interested in sharing your ideas or stories, visit the new website: http://www.theinkycomet.com/  

Episode 4: Love in the Time of El Niño (Pt. 1)

Listen in on the lovers as they recall the moment they knew it was love and exactly how it feels. 

If you're interested in sharing your ideas or stories, visit the new website: http://www.theinkycomet.com/

Episode 5: Love in the Time of El Niño (Pt. 2)

Tune in for reflections on the relationship between mental health and blackness.

Episode 12: Mental Health Is Your Wealth

In this episode, we explore the notion of home throughout the African diaspora. Have our ancestors passed down a spirit of migration? How does this impact our relationship with physical space? 

Featuring @justantoinette and @sacredblooming

Home. A Concept

In this episode, we explore sources other than pain as creative inspiration. How does one move to authenticity in an effort to exalt Spirit through art? 

Featuring @justantoinette, @sistahrogers and @sacredblooming

Beyond the Pain that Drove You

In this episode, we explore what celebrity means and its function in society. We also examine whether or not Black celebrities have a particular responsibility to upholding our collective greater good. 

Featuring @homeandsanctuaryllc and @justantoinette

The Notion of Celebrity

Nia and Kadija process the current moment and collective outrage in the wake of George Floyd's death. As our country is in a collective moment of reflection, we must seize this opportunity to share our truth as Black people. Only through complete honesty, will the roots of racism be fully unearthed. What will you do beyond this moment? 

Featuring @homeandsanctuaryllc

Beyond this Moment

In this episode, Nia and Antoinette discuss how our response to the pandemic, is a reflection of our collective American values. 

Featuring @justantoinette

How Our Values Define Us

A series of conversations with Black Women about self-care. In this episode, we explore why self-care is so important to the survival, healing, and liberation of Black women. Included are actionable steps and ways you can better love and support the Black women in your life.

What is Self Care for the Black Woman?  (Part 1)

The Inky Comet podcast illuminates conversations we often shy away from. The topics that make us uncomfortable in mixed company, but when given sacred space, transform us and make the elephant in the room smaller—creating space for shared empathy, understanding, and community.  

After 8 years, the light of the comet has evolved. Join the host Nia Marie, as she dissects topics that are foundational to how we relate to one another in a rapidly changing world. Tune in to season 8 every Wednesday from May 14  through July anywhere you listen to podcasts.

Popular tracks by The Inky Comet