The Single Greatest Choice

Faith and Self-Advocacy on the Path to SMBC with Jamela Black

Episode Summary

Sometimes the greatest comeback is choosing the life that’s right for you, even if it doesn’t fit the traditional mold. Today’s guest, Jamela Black, shares her journey from divorce to embracing solo motherhood by choice. At 37, shortly after her marriage ended, Jamela’s mother suggested she consider having children through a sperm donor. Jamela knew she wasn’t interested in dating and was clear about the qualities she wanted to pass down to her future children. With her mom’s support, she took the brave steps to become a solo mother by choice. Her path was anything but straightforward, yet her faith and commitment to her vision led her to where she is today: the proud mother of 4-month-old twin girls. Her story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when you stand firm in your choices and stay open to life's twists and turns.

Episode Notes

In this episode, we discuss:

• The pressures women often feel to fit men into their lives to fulfill societal expectation
• Jamela’s decision to pursue solo motherhood after her divorce at 37;
• How her mom played an active role in her decision to become a solo mom by choice;
• The emotional journey of mourning both her marriage and the traditional family dream;
• The challenges and rewards of being a single mother in African American culture;
• Her fierce advocacy for herself in the fertility process and how important it is to ask questions;
• How she leaned into her faith and her community when the path was challenging;
• The importance of prioritizing your self care and your own happiness, even as a mom of newborn twins;
• The biggest benefit of being a solo mom according to Jamela;
• And more!

Connect with Jamela on Instagram