The Gag is… Podcast
The GAG is" is a powerful podcast that takes you on a journey through the life of a remarkable black woman who defied the odds. Charli Shanta became a teen mom and a widow by 21. Now in her mid 30’s life has been unpredictable, she’s faced unimaginable adversity yet she's never given up. Join Charli as she shares her inspiring story, offering a message of resilience and hope even if it isn’t always perfect. Discover that even in the darkest times there are better days ahead. Laughter can always follow tears.
Connect with Me!
Email: TheGagIsPod@gmail.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegagispod/
Episodes
69 episodes
Navigating Back-to-School: High School vs College Essentials
We wrap up our back-to-school series with practical advice for high school and college supplies, focusing on the transition between these educational stages and what students actually need versus what retailers want you to buy.• High sc...
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24:53
The Back-to-School Style Guide: Tips and Tricks
Back-to-school clothes shopping can be the most expensive part of preparing for the new school year, but with proper planning and practical strategies, parents can stay on budget while ensuring their children have what they need.• Preve...
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20:53
Finding Your Balance in the Back-to-School Chaos
We need to focus not just on getting our kids ready for back-to-school season, but also ensuring we're taking care of ourselves as parents because without us there's no them, and without them there's no us.• Take time to just breathe - ...
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23:42
Navigating Back-to-School Shopping: Elementary to Middle School Guide
The back-to-school season brings challenges for parents navigating lengthy supply lists and deciding between self-shopping versus purchasing pre-packaged kits from schools.• Elementary school supply lists grow longer each year with each...
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31:49
Back-to-School Prep: Emergency Contacts Matter
Returning with another back-to-school preparation episode, I focus on the critical importance of keeping your emergency contact information updated with your child's school. • Working in schools taught me how common it is for emerg...
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23:45
Back-to-School Health Essentials: Physicals, Medications & More
Charlie Shante discusses the importance of scheduling back-to-school health appointments early to ensure your child starts the school year with all required medical clearances and in good health.• Start scheduling physical exams and imm...
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25:10
First Impressions Start Young: Building Character Through Courtesy
Manners matter, and I've noticed an alarming decline in basic courtesy among children today, creating challenges for both adults and other kids who interact with them.• Children as young as five or six showing shocking disrespect to adu...
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22:26
Restructuring Your Life: Breaking Down the Path to Self-Improvement
Breaking life into manageable pieces can make restructuring your life more achievable, just like eating a pizza is easier when it's sliced rather than trying to consume it whole. Using a "four quarters" approach helps identify goals, gather res...
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30:32
Kids, Camps, and Climbing Utility Bills: A Parent's Summer Reality
Summer brings unique challenges for parents as they navigate planning activities, managing increased expenses, and keeping kids constructively occupied during the break. From sports commitments that don't pause for summer to the mysterious phen...
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32:11
Memorial Day vs Veterans Day: Honor the Fallen Correctly
Memorial Day is specifically for honoring military personnel who died in service to the country, not to be confused with Veterans Day which honors all who have served. I share my personal experience as a military widow and why the common phrase...
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23:42
When Your Kid Leaves You Hanging: A Mother's Day Special
Charlie shares a heartfelt and unfiltered Mother's Day episode after her son's brief attempt to take over leaves her scrambling to create content. She opens up about her 25 years of motherhood, the joys and challenges of raising children, and w...
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23:23
Navigating Life's Turbulence: Getting Back to Basics When Everything Gets Overwhelming
Life is a cyclical journey of growth, discomfort, and returning to basics. When overwhelm strikes, reconnecting with fundamental self-care practices can restore balance and prepare us for the next phase of personal evolution.• Discomfor...
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17:37
Easter Memories and Modern Dilemmas
Easter traditions create a stark contrast between childhood memories and adult responsibilities, highlighting the evolution of holiday celebrations within Baptist church communities.• Childhood Easter fashion included pageant-like dress...
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20:03
Play Hard, Rest Hard: Nurturing Young Athletes for Success
A conversation around the necessity of balancing sports with rest reveals vital insights into maintaining young athletes' health. Discover effective strategies for supporting children and respecting their limits while fostering a love for athle...
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27:18
Beyond Grades: Emotional Health and Academic Growth
Expectations placed on children have evolved, but the impact of perfectionism often harms their mental health and social skills. This episode prompts parents to reconsider how they nurture their child's development, aiming for balance and commu...
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20:55
Laughter, Love, and Lessons: Navigating Dating Disasters and Celebrating Galentine's Day
This episode humorously explores the absurdities of modern dating on International Loveless Day, as Charli and her best friend Suzanne share their wild and cringe-worthy dating tales. The conversation delves into understanding love's many expre...
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41:42
Reflections on Grief and Personal Growth
This episode explores the journey of grief and healing following the 18-year anniversary of the host's husband's passing. It delves into the complexities of experiencing joy alongside sorrow, the relevance of therapeutic support, the ethics of ...
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32:12
Rethinking Health: Beyond Diets and Calorie Counting
This episode emphasizes the interconnectedness of muscle groups and the significance of setting realistic fitness goals while navigating nutrition. It addresses the dangers of fad diets, discusses the importance of flexible, personalized nutrit...
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32:25
Unmasking Fitness Myths and Embracing Reality
Bonnie Maxon Lee shares her extraordinary journey from professional wrestling to fitness excellence, emphasizing the importance of accountability and self-advocacy in health. The discussion covers the pitfalls of fad diets, the impact of fitnes...
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21:30
Authentic Growth and Realistic Goals for the New Year
This episode invites listeners to reconsider the phrase "New Year, New Me" and explore the concept of "New Year, Improved Me." We discuss setting realistic goals, the importance of balancing nutrition and fitness, managing time effectively, mai...
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29:22
From Cringe to Courage: A Year in Review
Laughter and reflection take center stage as we celebrate 50 episodes of the Gag Is Pod while looking back at the wild ride of 2024. Join me as we discuss parenting expectations, customer service frustrations, and resilience during hurricane se...
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45:03
The Art of Holiday Gift Giving and Merry Moments
Amidst the chaos of the holiday season, Charli navigates the humorous and relatable intricacies of Christmas traditions, gift exchanges, and family expectations. • Exploring the evolution of family Christmas traditions • Shari...
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25:13
From Storms to Serenity: A Birthday Reflection
Ever wondered how a birthday celebrated on Friday the 13th could become a personal new year filled with hope and renewal? Join me as I embrace the mystical charm of my unique birthday and reflect on the past year's journey of patience, understa...
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23:40
Rebuilding Life After the Storm
What happens when life throws you the ultimate curveball, forcing you to rely on community, faith, and sheer ingenuity to survive? Join me as I recount my firsthand experience of enduring back-to-back hurricanes in Florida and the chaos that fo...
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26:23
Mastering Black Friday: Smart Shopping Strategies and Budgeting Tips
What if you could transform your chaotic, impulse-driven shopping habits into a finely-tuned strategy that saves money and reduces stress? Join me as I recount my evolution from a spontaneous Black Friday enthusiast to a meticulous planner, bri...
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31:52