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].

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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In this episode of If You Knew Better, Amber Grimes breaks down the power of decisive action and confident decision-making, challenging listeners to be quick in making choices and intentional about sticking to them. She explores how fear-driven habits like overthinking, hesitation, perfectionism, and avoidance can delay progress and keep people stuck, emphasizing the importance of trusting your instincts and moving forward with clarity.

Through personal insights and practical strategies, Amber encourages the embracing of imperfection, build confidence, and take control of their choices in both personal and professional life. The episode serves as a mindset reset for anyone struggling with indecision, highlighting how disciplined thinking and consistent action can lead to growth, success, and a more empowered life.

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In this special live episode of If You Knew Better, Amber Grimes sits down with 2 Chainz at Barnes & Noble in Los Angeles to discuss his new book, The Voice In My Head Is God.

The Grammy-winning rapper and entrepreneur shares the inspiration behind the book and explains how intuition, faith, and self-awareness have guided many of the most important decisions in his life. Reflecting on his upbringing in Atlanta and the evolution of the city’s hustle culture, 2 Chainz emphasizes the value of humility, respect, and community while navigating success in music, business, and life.

The conversation also dives into; his family life, his iconic name change, the untimely passing of his father, admiration for the women in his life,self trust, and how his personal journey shaped the themes in The Voice In My Head Is God.

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In this episode of If You Knew Better with Amber Grimes, Amber sits down with actor Malcolm Mays for a thoughtful conversation about success, financial responsibility and the realities behind pursuing a career in entertainment. Malcolm reflects on his journey from childhood acting to adulthood, sharing lessons learned about family dynamics, personal loss, and the pressures that come with financial success and public visibility. They highlight the importance of community, accountability, and staying grounded while navigating opportunities in Hollywood.

The conversation also dives into financial literacy, social class, and the psychology of money, as Malcolm shares personal experiences growing up in a lower economic environment and learning how financial habits shape relationships and life choices. Together, they explore the importance of patience in financial decision-making, seeking trusted financial counsel, and understanding money as a reflection of time, effort, discipline and much more.

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