
Keep it Positive, Sweetie
The Black Effect Podcast Network and iHeartPodcasts · iHeartPodcasts
Show overview
Keep it Positive, Sweetie has been publishing since 2023, and across the 3 years since has built a catalogue of 126 episodes, alongside 5 trailers or bonus episodes. That works out to roughly 120 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a weekly cadence, with the show now in its 8th season.
Episodes typically run thirty-five to sixty minutes — most land between 45 min and 1h 7m — though episode length varies meaningfully from one episode to the next. It is catalogued as a EN-language Society & Culture show.
The show is actively publishing — the most recent episode landed 5 days ago, with 18 episodes already out so far this year. The busiest year was 2025, with 51 episodes published. Published by iHeartPodcasts.
From the publisher
Keep It Positive, Sweetie is more than a podcast—it’s a movement rooted in purpose, faith, and healing. Hosted by Crystal Renee Hayslett, this show creates a safe space for raw conversations and real connections that uplift, inspire, and empower. Each episode brings together culture-shifting guests for unfiltered talks on love, self-worth, growth, and navigating life with grace and grit. Whether we’re laughing, learning, or leaning into tough truths, the goal is always the same: to keep it honest, keep it healing, and always… Keep It Positive, Sweetie.
Latest Episodes
View all 126 episodesThe Right Things, In The Right Season
Build As You Are: Personal Branding Without Perfection
Stillness, Clarity & the Courage to Transform
“From Survival to Strategy: Owning Your Narrative”
Real Life, Real Love, & The Truth In Between

S1 Ep 25The Voice Within: Faith, Success & Self-Trust
From music to business to authorship, 2 Chainz has lived many chapters, but this conversation focuses on what’s beneath it all. In this episode, he reflects on his latest NY Times Best Seller, The Voice In My Head Is God, the role of intuition in his life, and the difference between success and peace. Connect @luvCrystalRenee Red: The Voice In My Head is GOD By 2 Chaiz Visit: CrystalReneeHayslett.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 24Ten Seasons Later: Growth, Boundaries & Becoming
Ten seasons. Over a million premiere viewers. Years of growth on screen and off. In this solo episode, Crystal reflects on Fatima’s journey since Season 1, what Season 10 reveals about higher stakes and shifting dynamics, and how playing a strong woman for nearly a decade shapes identity in real life. This conversation is about longevity, visibility, maturity, and what it means to grow in public while still becoming. Connect @luvCrystalRenee Visit: CrystalReneeHayslett.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 23Celebrating 10 Seasons of Sistas w/KJ Smith-Black & Jordan Coleman
Crystal Renee welcomes KJ Smith Black and Jordan Coleman to celebrate 10 seasons of Tyler Perry’s Sistas and talk about what it’s like playing sisters on screen while building real sisterhood off set. They share how their chemistry came naturally, Jordan’s nerves joining an established cast in season 10 (including a vulnerable first-day scene), and how KJ made space for Jordan to shine. The conversation touches on character growth, family trauma and deflection, the pressure of carrying a show, and how fame can feel isolating even with strong support. They also discuss We Got You Sis community events, handling social media negativity with boundaries and blocking, and why their platforms come with responsibility. KJ plugs her Black Coffee business, and Jordan shares she’s producing an action short film. @luvcrystalrenee @KingJayBarnettSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 22From Peloton to Prime Time w/ Tunde Oyeneyin
Crystal Renee welcomes Tunde Oyeneyin to the Keep It Positive, Sweetie Show to talk about stepping into acting as Madison Truitt on Tyler Perry’s Sistas, joining a series in its 10th season, and what it takes to be ready for a fast, one-take set. Tunde shares how she and Chris first connected through Peloton and later met in person, then reflects on pivoting publicly—from 16 years in cosmetics to cycling after a life-changing first class, to becoming a New York Times bestselling author, and now a series regular. They discuss ambition, being a successful Black woman who’s sometimes misunderstood, balancing strength with vulnerability, and choosing not to shrink your life for a relationship. Tunde also talks about soul care, guarding her peace as visibility grows, and upcoming projects, including Sports Illustrated Swim.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 21Black Women and the Power of the Group Chat
Crystal sits down with Jotaka Eadd, Founder of Full Circle Strategies and known as the Olivia Pope of Silicon Valley, for a heartfelt conversation about grief, healing, and finding strength in heavy moments. From navigating personal loss to continuing the work of community, advocacy, and leadership, Jotaka shares how she moves forward through challenges, learns from missteps, and stays connected to purpose.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 20The Way Love Goes w/ Brat + Judy
Host Chrystal Renee welcomes Debra (Da Brat) and Judy to the Keep It Positive Sweetie Show for a real conversation about building happiness on purpose through love, partnership, accountability, and everyday choices that protect home. They share why they’ve been quieter online, expound on motherhood, staying present, and keeping parts of their son’s life private, while still finding a middle ground with content. They talk about having a baby later in life, using Judy’s eggs with Debra carrying the pregnancy, and how becoming parents has softened Debra and helped her let go of survival mode and old habits from being an artist and growing up in Chicago. Judy shares her journey from doing hair as a child in New Orleans to building Kaleidoscope, including how Miracle Drops started after a client returned with damage that needed help. The couple previews their book, “The Way Love Goes,” out February 3, 2026 (pre-orders available), explaining that relationships aren’t always 50/50 and that partners should lean into each other’s strengths instead of fighting for control. They keep it honest about conflicts like jealousy, old messages, and even phones getting thrown, and how they’ve learned to cool down, communicate, and not go to bed angry. They also talk about keeping your identity in a relationship, with Debra encouraging Judy to take time for herself, while Judy opens up about the weight of running a company without investors and having to absorb costly mistakes as the owner. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 19Listening to the Voice of God While Battling Restlessness in This Season - A Candid Conversation with Jonathan McReynolds.
Jonathan McReynolds’ music has long created a space for reflection, faith, and real-time conversation with God. This weeks conversation goes beyond the songs — touching on faith, vulnerability, growth, and what it really means to walk with God in real time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 18From Harvard to Fashion Bomb!!!
In this episode of the Keep it Positive, Sweetie Show, host Chrystal Renee speaks with Claire Sulmers, the visionary behind Fashion Bomb Daily. Claire shares her journey from Atlanta to Harvard and eventually to the heights of fashion journalism. She discusses the challenges she faced in accessing the fashion industry, the importance of resilience, and the critical decision that led her to create Fashion Bomb Daily. The conversation highlights the ongoing struggle for inclusivity in fashion, maintaining personal perseverance, and the significance of ownership and creating one's path. Claire also reflects on the importance of rest, self-care, and her future aspirations, including writing another book and expanding her brand.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 17Building A Creative Life With Intention - A Candid Conversation w/ Shanon Wallace
Crystal welcomes actor and filmmaker Shannon Wallace on the Keep It Positive, Sweetie Show to discuss Shannon's journey in both photography and acting. Shannon shares his experiences from growing up as a shy child in Long Island to gaining confidence in college. He talks about transitioning from social work to modeling and eventually acting, using each phase of his career to build skills and fulfill his artistic ambitions. They discuss his work in notable shows, the impact of personal loss, and how acting in 'City on a Hill' helped him deal with his brother's tragic death. Shannon highlights his new projects, including a film premiering at Slam Dance, and shares insights into his personal life and relationships.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 16Don’t Put Your Purpose in a Holding Pattern w/ Dr Joseph Walker
In this episode of Keep it Positive, Sweetie, host Crystal Renee speaks with Dr Joseph Walker III about his journey into leadership, starting from his early days in the church at 24, navigating faith, loneliness, marriage, and legacy. They discuss his new book 'Pursuit of Purpose: Peace by Piece,' which reflects on understanding life's challenges as pieces of a bigger puzzle, leading to purpose and peace. Bishop Walker shares insights on stewardship, humility, the importance of empathy in leadership, and finding purpose amidst pain. He also talks about the balance between pastoral duties, family life, and entrepreneurial ventures, emphasizing the significance of recognizing and nurturing one's unique purpose. Connect @luvCrystalRenee @josephwalker3 Visit: CrystalReneeHayslett.com Read: Pursuit of Purpose Peace by Piece By Dr. Joseph WalkerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 15From Legendary R&B Group 112 to Prioritizing Quinnes
Crystal sits down with Q Parker for a conversation about life, love, and evolution. From his latest project, Evolution of Romance, Volume One, to the discipline, intention, and values that guide him today, Q reflects on how his perspective has matured over time. The conversation moves beyond music into longevity, relationships, self-respect, and what it means to keep growing with purpose while staying true to who you are.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 14Delay is Not Denial - A Candid Conversation w/ THEE Pastor Mike Jr
Faith isn’t always quiet — sometimes it shows up in the middle of pressure, responsibility, and unanswered questions. Crystal sits down with Pastor Mike Jr. to talk about what it really means to lead with faith while staying human. From the continued impact of “Amen” to the heart behind Confetti & Conspiracies, this conversation is about encouragement that doesn’t ignore reality and faith that meets people exactly where they are. Connect @luvCrystalRenee @PastorMikeJr Visit: CrystalReneeHayslett.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

REPLAY - Creating Your Own Path w/ Marco Summers
bonusIn this episode of the 'Keep It Positive Sweetie Show,' Crystal Renee Hayslett sits down with comedian Marco Summers, also known as Funny Marco, to discuss his unique approach to comedy and life. They talk about Marco's journey from DM'ing Crystal over a year ago after watching a Tyler Perry episode to finally being on the show. Marco shares insights on patience, learning from Kevin Hart, and not letting the industry's timing affect one's passion. He delves into his upbringing, the impact of his father’s street life and the mindset of his mother, and his commitment to being a different kind of dad for his children. Marco touches upon his struggle with dyslexia and how it shaped his comedic style and outlook. We also explore Marco's transition to using his real name, the importance of trusting and learning from his team, and his evolution from doing Walmart pranks to full-scale productions. He provides a candid look into his personal life, including his relationship with his children and his move from Kansas City to Atlanta. The conversation is filled with humor, wisdom, and practical advice on building a career while staying authentic. Connect @luvCrystalRenee @MarcoSummersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1 Ep 13What God Has For You Is For You w/ Terri J. Vaughn
In this episode of the 'Keep it Positive, Sweetie' show, host Crystal Renee shares an anecdote about her challenging travel experience and emphasizes the importance of having supportive, prayerful people in one's life. She welcomes actress Terri J Vaughan, known for her roles on the Steve Harvey Show and Netflix's Miss Governor. They discuss their journeys in the entertainment industry, touching on faith, perseverance, and finding success despite numerous challenges. Terri reflects on her 20 years of pitching her show and the importance of living life fully, balancing career and family, and trusting one's inner purpose. The conversation concludes with a prayer for all attendees, asking for God's guidance, grace, and swift answers to their prayers. Connect @luvCrystalRenee @terrijvaughn Visit: CrystalReneeHayslett.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You Can’t Cancel Gods Plans w/ LeCrae
bonusIn this powerful and transparent episode of Keep It Positive, Sweetie, Crystal Renee Hayslett sits down with Grammy Award–winning artist, author, and thought leader Lecrae for a candid conversation rooted in truth and growth. Together, they unpack faith, identity, mental health, public scrutiny, and what it really means to live authentically—especially when your journey is unfolding in the public eye. With honesty, vulnerability, and mutual respect, this conversation creates space for healing, reflection, and hope, reminding listeners that purpose is often found on the other side of hard conversations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.