If You Knew Better with Amber Grimes
The Black Effect Podcast Network and iHeartPodcasts·15 episodes·Weekly
You can’t rewrite the past — but you can learn from it. Amber Grimes did exactly that, going from college dropout to Executive Vice President in the entertainment industry with no map, just mistakes and lessons that turned into power moves.
If You Knew Better is where Amber shares that wisdom — alongside artists, creatives, and culture-shifters who open up about the missteps they made, the mindsets that changed everything, and the game they wish they knew sooner. Together, they unpack the highs, the lows, and the pivots in life, career, and relationships — so you either don’t have to go through it, or can move smarter when you do.
Every episode delivers real talk, hard-won insight, and practical gems to help you grow into the version of yourself that knows better… and does better.
Episodes
Latest Episode
June 2, 2026 · 1h 1m
In this episode of If You Knew Better , Amber Grimes sits down with Raven B. Varona for an honest conversation about self-discovery, healing, and navigating the transition from your 20s into your 30s. Together, they reflect on embracing change and personal evolution [00:00] , the lessons, regrets, and realizations that shape adulthood [02:56] , and the importance of asking deeper questions about purpose and fulfillment [05:48] . The discussion explores relationships and expectations [09:06] , finding your voice and trusting yourself [14:50] , and how loss can become a catalyst for growth and transformation [18:05] . They also highlight the value of community [21:00] and the need to redefine success and self-worth beyond external validation [23:49] . The conversation expands into purpose, creativity, and the lifelong journey of becoming your most authentic self. Raven opens up about finding meaning amid chaos [31:32] , evolving her sense of purpose through self-discovery [34:07] , and recognizing patterns of co-dependency while learning to make decisions with confidence [38:19] . She also discusses the role of therapy and self-reflection [40:41] , the power of play and creativity in adulthood [43:14] , and the importance of managing inner dialogue and self-talk [51:51] . Through vulnerability and insight, this episode offers a powerful perspective on personal growth, emotional wellness, and creating a life that aligns with who you truly are. Follow Amber Grimes on Instagram: @ambergrimes Follow Ravie B: @ravieb Get Amber's Newsletter on Substack Watch This Episode on Youtube Thursday at 6pm ET Follow Amber's Book Club Get Amber's Book Club Merch Read Amber's Favorite Books See for privacy information.
More Episodes
May 26 · 1h 3m
In this episode of If You Knew Better, Amber Grimes sits down with Dr. Siri Sat Nam Singh for a powerful conversation about therapy, emotional healing, and personal transformation. Together, they unpack the purpose of therapy [00:00], the journey of finding the right therapist [03:06], and the idea that therapy can evolve or even come to an end as growth occurs [06:02]. Dr. Siri also explores the importance of empathy and authentic connection within the therapeutic process [08:51], while discussing emotional growth through reframing perspectives [11:48], balancing the heart and mind [14:55], and understanding gender dynamics in healing spaces [18:12]. The conversation expands into intuition, relationships, and emotional expression, highlighting the balance between masculine and feminine energies [31:36] [35:01] and the importance of communication and vulnerability in healthy connections [39:50] [43:39] [48:58]. Dr. Siri also reflects on navigating personal change and growth [55:01] while addressing the future of therapy in an increasingly technology-driven world [01:01:00]. Blending mental health insight with spiritual wisdom, this episode offers a thoughtful guide for anyone seeking deeper healing, stronger relationships, and a more intentional connection to themselves. Follow Amber Grimes on Instagram: @ambergrimes Follow Dr. Siri: @drsirinow Get Amber's Newsletter on Substack Watch This Episode on Youtube Thursday at 6pm ET Follow Amber's Book Club Get Amber's Book Club Merch Read Amber's Favorite Books See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
May 23 · 57m
The Black Effect Presents... If You Knew Better with Amber Grimes! In this episode of If You Knew Better, Amber Grimes sits down with Jason Lee, founder of Hollywood Unlocked, for an honest conversation about personal growth, accountability, and evolving beyond public perception. Jason reflects on his journey from controversy to clarity, discussing the impact of reality TV on identity [09:09], the challenges of navigating public criticism [05:47], and how strategic chaos helped shape his business success [11:47]. He also opens up about ownership, influence, and authenticity [15:03] [17:57], while sharing insights on therapy, sobriety, and learning to regain control over his personal life [20:49]. The conversation deepens into responsibility, faith, and the importance of using influence with intention. Jason discusses relationships, accountability, and the illusion of control [29:09] [33:47], while emphasizing how resilience, purposeful partnerships, and self-awareness have transformed his outlook [37:36] [45:44]. From building a media empire to inspiring the next generation [50:00], this episode explores the balance between ambition and healing, offering a powerful perspective on growth, redemption, and becoming more intentional in both business and life. Follow Amber Grimes on Instagram: @ambergrimes Follow Jason Lee: @theonlyjasonlee @hollywoodunlocked Get Amber's Newsletter on Substack Watch This Episode on Youtube Thursday at 6pm ET Follow Amber's Book Club Get Amber's Book Club Merch Read Amber's Favorite Books See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
May 19 · 1h 18m
In this episode of If You Knew Better, Amber Grimes sits down with Estelle for a heartfelt conversation about healing, authenticity, and personal transformation. Estelle reflects on her journey of self-discovery and emotional growth [05:07], opening up about navigating family dynamics [09:51], embracing difficult but necessary conversations [19:56], and learning to honor her own unique path [25:07]. The discussion explores the importance of acceptance and surrender in the healing process [30:12], while highlighting how vulnerability and self-awareness can create space for deeper peace and personal evolution [35:03]. The conversation expands into motherhood, timing, and the lessons that come with navigating life’s uncertainties [39:05] [42:43]. Estelle shares insight into trusting divine timing when making life choices [47:18], the power of perspective in shaping personal growth [53:06], and the emotional process of starting over while reconnecting with her roots [01:00:14] [01:07:06]. Through honesty, reflection, and wisdom, this episode offers a powerful perspective on healing, identity, and embracing the freedom that comes from becoming your most authentic self. Follow Amber Grimes on Instagram: @ambergrimes Follow Estelle: @estelledarlings Get Amber's Newsletter on Substack Watch This Episode on Youtube Thursday at 6pm ET Follow Amber's Book Club Get Amber's Book Club Merch Read Amber's Favorite Books See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
May 5 · 1h 10m
In this episode of If You Knew Better, Amber Grimes sits down with Jozzy for a powerful conversation on authenticity, self-expression, and navigating identity in the music industry. From embracing her true self [00:00] [03:12] to unpacking the journey of self-discovery and breaking free from societal expectations [06:02] [08:52], Jozzy shares how confidence and vulnerability have shaped her path. She also speaks on trailblazing within the industry [12:11], maintaining creative control [15:07], and challenging the impact of the male gaze on women and artists [20:51], while emphasizing the importance of building a supportive and inclusive community [24:03]. The conversation expands into relationships, emotional intelligence, and personal growth, highlighting the need for intentionality and self-awareness in romantic connections [17:58] [41:02]. Jozzy reflects on confidence as a continuous practice [26:54] [35:54], while encouraging others to embrace their journey and evolve unapologetically [48:31]. Closing with a message on striving to be your best self—not just for personal success but to inspire others [57:46]—this episode offers a compelling perspective on authenticity, growth, and carving your own lane in life and career. Follow Amber Grimes on Instagram: @ambergrimes Follow Jozzy. on Instagram: @jozzy Get Amber's Newsletter on Substack Watch This Episode on Youtube Thursday at 6pm ET Follow Amber's Book Club Get Amber's Book Club Merch Read Amber's Favorite BooksSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Apr 28 · 52m
In this episode of If You Knew Better, Amber Grimes sits down with award-winning director Child for a deeply personal conversation on grief, loss, and the journey toward healing. From the immediate shock of losing loved ones [00:00] [03:00] to the lasting emotional weight grief places on daily life [06:10] [09:00], they open up about the full reality of loss — not just the heartbreak, but the overwhelming responsibilities that follow: legal battles, funeral planning, managing estates, and handling the countless technical demands that arrive precisely when you're least equipped to face them. The conversation explores the importance of therapy [11:54] and processing emotions in real time, alongside the hard lessons of navigating life after loss [14:46] [18:07] —The discussion then shifts to mental health, relationships, and personal growth — from checking in on loved ones who appear strong [25:36], to reordering priorities away from career and toward meaningful connection [28:02], embracing boundaries [29:30], and navigating identity through life's transitions [30:59] [32:28]. They close by exploring how intentional environments foster healing [36:40] and why honest conversations about legacy and preparing for loss — before it happens — matter more than most people realize [41:14]. Follow Amber Grimes on Instagram: @ambergrimes Follow Child. on Instagram: @childartiste Get Amber's Newsletter on Substack Watch This Episode on Youtube Thursday at 6pm ET Follow Amber's Book Club Get Amber's Book Club Merch Read Amber's Favorite BooksSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Apr 21 · 1h 4m
In this episode of If You Knew Better, Amber Grimes sits down with Grammy-nominated producer Paul Jefferies aka Nineteen85 (of DVSN) for a powerful conversation on fatherhood, parenting, and personal growth. Reflecting on his journey as a young and single dad, Paul opens up about navigating parental expectations [01:20], embracing the idea of disappointing your parents as a path to self-discovery [02:44] [06:24], and unpacking generational differences in parenting styles [10:22]. This episode dives into how modern parents can create space for growth, grace, and understanding [21:28] [25:08]. Paul shares honest insights on navigating early parenthood [33:32], breaking generational cycles [49:24], and the role of therapy in personal growth [55:29], while emphasizing the importance of empowering children to find and use their voices [01:00:43]. This episode offers real-life perspective and actionable wisdom for anyone looking to raise healthier families and become a better version of themselves. Follow Amber Grimes on Instagram: @ambergrimes Follow Nineteen85 on Instagram: @nineteen85 Get Amber's newsletter on Substack Watch this episode on Youtube Thursday at 6pm ET Follow Amber's Book Club Get Amber's Book Club Merch Read Amber's Favorite BooksSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Apr 14 · 25m
In this solo episode of If You Knew Better, Amber Grimes dives deep into self-discovery, identity, and personal growth (00:00), exploring what it means to reconnect with your true self after years of societal pressure and expectations. She reflects on how life experiences, setbacks, and external influences can reshape identity, often leading people to lose touch with their passions, creativity, and purpose (05:27). Through honest insight, Amber highlights the emotional weight of that disconnect and the importance of recognizing it as part of the journey (12:22). Amber encourages listeners to embrace authenticity, reclaim their voice, and rediscover what genuinely brings them joy (21:52), emphasizing that today’s world allows for more freedom to evolve and live multifaceted lives. With practical reflection and empowering perspective, the episode serves as a reminder that growth requires courage, self-awareness, and a willingness to shed outdated versions of yourself in order to step fully into who you’re meant to be. Follow If You Knew Better on Socials: @ambergrimesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Apr 7 · 1h 9m
In this episode of If You Knew Better, Amber Grimes sits down with Grammy-winning artist Durand Bernarr for a heartfelt conversation about adult relationships, friendship dynamics, and personal growth. Durand opens up about the emotional challenges of friendship breakups, emphasizing the importance of accountability, communication, and honesty in maintaining meaningful connections. Together, they explore how life experiences shape the way we show up in relationships and why being clear about your needs is essential for long-term emotional health. The conversation also dives into self-discovery, evolving friendships, and the difference between genuine support and surface-level connections, highlighting the distinction between real friends and fans. Amber and Duran discuss how change is inevitable and how letting go of certain relationships can be a necessary step toward growth. With vulnerability and insight, the episode encourages listeners to prioritize authentic relationships, practice emotional awareness, and embrace personal evolution. Follow If You Knew Better on Socials: @ambergrimesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mar 31 · 1h 18m
In this episode of If You Knew Better, Amber Grimes sits down with empowerment advocate Tonya Renee Meisenbach (Burned Beauty 2018) for a powerful conversation about narcissistic abuse, toxic relationships, and the journey to healing. Tanya shares the deeply personal story of being set on fire by her husband and unpacks the 15 years of emotional abuse she endured. Tanya breaks down the warning signs, red flags, and psychological impact that often go unnoticed. Through her experience, she highlights the importance of self-awareness, recognizing unhealthy patterns, and understanding how trauma can shape relationship choices. The conversation also focuses on healing, personal responsibility, and reclaiming your life after abuse, as Tanya offers practical insight on safely exiting toxic situations and rebuilding self-worth. She emphasizes giving yourself grace, sharing your story as part of the healing process, and embracing self-love as a foundation for growth. Follow If You Knew Better on Socials: @ambergrimesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.