299: [Paula Sima] Breaking the Silence: Conversations on Mental Health

>> Paula Sima: But raising me. Me and him were invited to another podcast together as a father daughter duo to talk about relationship and depression and even the fact that my dad also came out to me. I was like, I also deal with depression. And I go, so it was like, uh. And these are conversations you need to know. Like, our parents also have mental health struggles, but we look at our parents like heroes. They can't do anything, but we need to also be there for them in their mental

struggles, just as they need to be there for us. Have those conversations with your people. You never know who's true. >> Anthony Weaver: Welcome back, everybody, to another exciting show of the about that Water podcast. I'm your host, Anthony Weaver, where we help the sandwich generation build strong financial habits. One of the people that I have on is somebody that's so energetic, has always a great smile, and has actually welcomed me into the podcast community.

And I want to thank her so much, um, by bringing her on, um, and actually share her energy with you all. And her name is Paula Sema. How you doing today, Paula? >> Paula Sima: Good. Thank you so much for having me. You can't believe it. When you asked me to. To. To be on your podcast was like, the highlight of my January. So technically, you're the first person I'm guesting in on 2025, and I plan to be very picky on the

podcast. I got to this year because I'm taking back seat on podcasting, so this is exciting for me, fresh out of recovery. >> Anthony Weaver: Yeah. Because we were supposed to record before, but, you know, you're under the weather. Actually, it's coming from. Was, uh, what? Podfast, I believe. Oh, yeah. >> Paula Sima: Ah. Um, kids, uh, grown ups, kids. Whoever is listening to this,

uh, sometimes listen to your body. You're not as. As young as you used to think, so doing things you used to do four years ago in a conference might not work four years later. That's what happens when you overdo it and you come back home and you get sick. And very sick. I have been in bed for almost two weeks now. >> Anthony Weaver: Jeez. And do you ever figure out, like, what. What it was?

>> Paula Sima: Well, um, first thing, which, uh, is funny, you will find funny what happened when I was with you in podcast movement. I don't know. This thing about me falling, um, should be examined. >> Anthony Weaver: Yes. >> Paula Sima: So, of course, I did fall twice at Potfest, and I was with the same teams. Why I say these every time I'm with them. Shout out to the mopad boys. I love y' all. But, um, so I fell down twice, but

I'm a Person who never feels pain in the moment. Like, you remember when I fell at focus movement, the first thing I was like, can I get a beer? Like, I was just like, let's get back to the. To the mood. Like, no hospitals, no nothing. I hate hospitals. I hate unless I really feel it. And I normally don't feel it until I stop the movement because I'm always on the go. You come back home and you're like. And then I'm seeing all these bruises, and my toes were literally,

like, popped up. Because apparently I pinch my. Like, looking at my body. Like, I swear if somebody had seen me, they would think maybe I was, uh, abused. You know, something like, you know, and people have marks in the m and they're being abused and hiding. Like, my body was filled with marks, which I was like, what the hell is going on? And then, um, also drinking beer from morning to evening is not healthy if you're not drinking water

in between. So I said, I will pay anybody who has a picture of me about first without holding a beer. And again, I blame the moped boys for constantly having beers for me. So there was that. I was drinking beer constantly, and I wasn't eating as much, even though I had access to as much food. I would literally go get a plate and bring it to my friends, like, hey, look what we have. And they're like, where did you get this? I'm like, don't worry where I got it. Eat right.

But I am not eating myself. And I wasn't drinking enough water. So it was hydration. It was the sinus infection again. Freuda was kind of cold, and we just had the snow. We normally don't. Freuda was like, the weather was we. As I think, jumping into around that time with this weather conditions. I got a sinus infection. Then I had indigestion. It's just like. And, uh, emotion. My body was really tired. Again, if you have met me at a conference, you know how I am at a conference. So the body

was really exhausted until right now. My body is still trying to find back the energy, but the fluid is gone. The cough is going. You can tell because the last voice note I sent you, I was literally coughing more than. So I'm healing, but my energy is still getting slowly. But it was all those things. That's why I say you. Just because you look young or you feel young doesn't mean you're as young as you were before. Ah. And I looked at Joe and Mike, and I was like, bruh.

Because I met them at PodFest in 2022. And we've been doing this since then. I'm like, bruh, we can't keep doing this. Because even the next morning, Joe was exhausted. By the way, it was also like Joe's birthday and Chase's birthday. So it like, and, and this is my last podfest because next year won't be a podfest. So I was trying to do everything, like, because to, to increase for next year that I won't be here, uh, which may overdo it. So, uh, it was just, yeah, a lot. I was doing a lot.

I, I would be the first person to say I was doing a lot. But, um, in. In the me being me, at least, um, the people who were there enjoyed it. And hey, uh, I got promoted from mayor to governor of podfest. I guess I was doing something right while drinking in. >> Anthony Weaver: Well, it was in a long time coming because if you think about it, you're the first person I saw on podfest, um, promotion videos. And I was like, who was this person with all this energy and

there's like, from Tanzania. And I was like, okay, well, maybe I'll see her in passing. Okay, so go to fincon. And I was like, okay, I've seen her face before, um, but didn't say anything first. Well, we met in person and Podcast movement. Yeah, but I've seen you in passing at other events, at another event, I believe. And um, it was my first time actually meeting you in

podcast movement. Um, because it was like, you know, you know, certain people, like, you just kind of see them like, okay, well this is maybe a one time deal. They're gonna go hang out with the people that they know. And you know, it's very, it's like a family reunion when you go to these events. And that's the reason why I like the in person events, uh, more so than like how we have these conversations, but we also support each other

virtually. But when it comes to in person, it's almost like, hey, I've known you for 20 years almost, it feels like, and it's such a great thing to have. Um, and with that being said, because it's like you, your podcast is talking about, you know, with your personal battle with depression and having those moments and seeing you're happy actually helps a lot more than what you think. I'm not sure if anybody ever told you that yet.

>> Paula Sima: Which I like that. But, uh, a lot of people come to me and be like, are you sure you depressed? Because I am constantly. We all, you know, um, in the beginning, I Used to not think I was depressed as well because of the person I am. I'm like, I'm constantly happy and trying to make people happy and cheerful. How can I be depressed? So I understand where they're coming from with it. Right? But. But um, that's just

me and the energy. And I can be like that in a room of people and still be dying inside. Ah. And that's why I put that out. Because I want that back to fill that void inside of me. And that's uh, why when I go to these events, whether I know somebody or not, I give them the full me that I give to the people of non 20 plus. I mean 5, 6 plus years to a new person. People, uh, will tell you I, I will hang out with people and people, uh, and people will come and be like, huh. I just

matter. I'm like. Because that's who I am. Like, uh, I don't like small talks. So when I meet people, I just go straight to that. And I like making people be very uncomfortable because I feel like when you make people uncomfortable, they get comfortable very easily. So I, I go straight with a perverted or weird question, straight on into that digging in and then either it will be like, damn, did she really say that? Wait, did you

really? Oh, you'll be like, oh my God, she m my kind of person. Because she goes straight in. And it helps you fit. Because if you get offended on something I literally ask or anything that shows me, you know, my person and that makes me not waste my time with you because I don't like people get offended easily

because I offend. And my friends used to tell me, paula, just because you say no offense and then you continue to offend us doesn't mean I'm, um, like I'm m to offend you, but I'm also like the. >> Anthony Weaver: You got to get it off your chest, you know. And sometimes it's just like, you know, you have that thought and be like, um, hm. I. I want to say this, but I don't want to say this, but

I feel like I'mma hurt my. I'mma feel bad for not saying this at this moment, you know. >> Paula Sima: And I learned that I rather say it and get it out. And we be. We be. And I am very sarcastic. So you really have to. That's why sometimes, that's why I love this in person events because online you can't really reach somebody's sarcasm if you don't know them, you know. And, um, I have this friend called Junaid. I don't know if you know him. Junaid.

Junaid is the perfect person if you're trying to get into home studio videos. Yeah. He helps them build studios. He has a podcast called Hacks and Obies over 500 episodes. He has that go box where it's like a go studio. You open the go box and it comes with everything they're about to. They sell those. But, um, Junaid has the most driest sarcastic humor ever. If you read his comments on Facebook, you would think this person is writing from hate or anything

because you don't know him. But then when you sit with him and you actually get to know him, and then when you read his, you're like, oh, here we go. Like, you know, you get it because you have been in his presence and you have actually felt his energy and seemed like that's just how he is. But sometimes online, when you read it and everybody reads things in a different perspective, right? In a different, um,

attitude. I might write it in a funny way, but somebody coming from wherever, they might read it in a. Oh, that was offensive. But I was just being funny or sarcastic. So that's why this imperson said, I like going there because people get to know me and they're like, oh, that's just Paula. Like, these days when people hear things or even when somebody goes and say that that short girl just came and said like, oh, that's just Paula. She didn't mean it that way. Trust me, if she

in a bad way, you would know. And I like that because people get to sense who you really are, that nothing gets taken, um, out of context. And I am that person. Like, I am very sarcastic and I say shit and I'm very perverted. Like, four years going on podfest where my badges always have perverted the end. So people can be aware. Like, you know, I'm, um, the person who. But I, I, I, I do, um, what's the thing called when people have sexual harassment and they say, uh,

consent. I don't before I sometimes get into people's personal spaces and, um, you know, so. Because I don't want to be Didi me, me too. Whatever all that crap going on. But I am all those things. Uh, and that's why I think I love podfest because it's a place where as really embraced and welcome me. Like, all of me.

My loud house. I don't know any conference that allows me to drink from morning to evening to and to still and they still trust me to emcee and, and host first timers and Second timers, um, more part to allow me to be their ambassador and spokesman for them with how they know, but because deep down they know who I really am and I get the job done regardless. Like, I am a person who loves people, who loves connecting, who loves networking. Like, I love bringing people together.

So it always comes in a good place. How it ends up, that's all other different things. So. And that's why I tell people, if you deal with drunk polar, go deal with drunk polar. Don't bring drunk polar in to. So cuz I don't know. >> Anthony Weaver: Okay, that is true. I can attest it out. He was like, oh, uh, I don't know what you're talking about. That was yesterday, cuz when you fell, you was like, I totally, I totally forgot about like the next day. I was like, do

you. She was like, no, I don't know what to talk about. But we got footage. So. >> Paula Sima: I came back for two weeks. He was constantly texting me, yo, are you good? Concussion, Are you good? I'm like, bro. Ah. And that's the thing. They. They love me so much that sometimes I feel like smitten by them. But it comes from a good place. But I'm, um, not personal. Like, and that's why I don't even, um, hold grudges or anything. Like, once I let it out,

that's it. You can be mad at me, but I'm not mad. Like, you're wasting your anger. I'm still moving, baby. As long as that's why I like, take putting it out there. And that's why sometimes when I have to say for people with me, Facebook, you have seen. I've had moments where I literally go off on. And once I've already done that, like now, now it's out there. I'm good. What's next? >> Anthony Weaver: Right, Exactly.

So, um, because mental health has been one of your main things, why mental health over any other topic that you love to talk about. >> Paula Sima: About. Well, because one, I'm a depressed speech, and um, two, I am Tanzanian, and in Tanzania, we really don't talk about mental health. And, um, not only Tanzania, I was also around people who, when I was feeling certain way and I would say and I'd get the same, which was, this will pass. Oh, at least you have a roof over your

head. Oh, you're gonna be fine. Uh, I get it. I am blessed and I'm happy that I have this because there are people out there worse. But my feelings still do matter. And I feel like some people don't Speak up because of that, because of people. Keep on having this, or you should be grateful you have this, or you should. You know, tomorrow is gonna be a better day. Oh, blah, blah, blah. No,

right now, this is what I'm dealing with. I want to know. So I wanted people out there to know they're not alone. And also, again, it was the misconstructions on mental. On depression. Like, when I came out with depression, a lot of people came to me saying they would never thought I had depression because of how I handled myself or I looked. And that's when I felt like it was important. Because people assume that you have to be in a dark room and sad or dressed up in crunchy clothes to be

depressed. Like, there's no look on depressed. People can be walking sanely and happy and still depressed. I mean, look at Avicii. Ah, who killed himself. It was rich, Emani, that, um, Katie whoever. Like all these billionaire rich people, actors, they have everything as well, but they still ended up killing themselves because of their battles with mental health. So you can have everything and still be sad because it's a mental thing. It's

not what you have or what you don't have. It's the feelings in your mind that you're battling with. And that's where it was. And people needed to understand that. Um, I lost my thought, but there was something I was going to share. Yeah. Um, there's this saying where. And I used to be those people who used to think surrounding yourself with people would

make you happy. Right? And then until you realize you're in a room full of people, whether you love or hate them, but room full of people, and you're still lonely as m. That shit is real. And that's why when people used to tell me when I started being my own best friend and learning to. Because I used to be a, uh, people pleaser. I wanted people constantly around me, so I would do whatever it takes to. To have

people around me. And I was wasting my energy, my time, my money, because they really didn't want to be around me. I was just buying their presence, you know? And I realized it wasn't filling me. And I had to learn how to be happy by myself. I had to learn how to be doing things by myself, to be okay. To be alone, which most people fear. And my brother came to me and told me, paula, uh, these days, you're so alone, make sure you're not lonely.

I'm like, you know, you can be alone and not lonely, and you can be with People and lonely. And those are things people need to understand. So if that answers the question on why mental health, that. That was why. Plus, I, at the time when my podcast started, I was battling my own mental. My own very fucked up depression, which got. I don't know if without, uh, podcasting, I would have been able to get myself out of it, because it was Covid going on. And back in my country, um,

our president wasn't taking Covid serious. My dad had health issues. And to top off worrying about COVID and is older, you know, so that was depressing me. And then here, ah, there was Black Lives Matter, which was crazy. Then there was Asian Lives Matter. I lived in Asia for five years. I have friends I consider family who are Asian. So that was also. And then I was dealing with my own breakup, which I kind of didn't want to deal with. But when the world shut down, I

had nothing but time to deal with. I'm overthink. I live in my head. So it was a lot of things going on, and I was drinking way too much. Now I'm a drinker and I enjoy drinking, but there's a difference. When you're drinking to have fun and drinking to numb the pain. When you're numbing the pain, you're just constantly drinking with no stopping because you don't want to stop. So that became worse. So, um, I finally dealt with my breakup, and I went on Twitter,

and Twitter was Twitter. And I started talking shit. And somebody was like, you should start a podcast. And I sat down and I asked myself, if I did start a podcast, what would I want it to be? And I was like, what am I going through right now? I need to have this conversation. So my first episode was me opening up with all the shit that I was dealing with. And trust me, recording it was easy. But releasing it to the world, that was a whole other thing. Uh, I was

fearing of judgment again. I'm, um, African. I come from Tanzania. There's all these things of, oh, you're putting too much of the business out there. People don't need to know this. You know, all that. Nobody talks about money, because God forbid you're 35 and broken, living paycheck to paycheck, baby, it's a crime. So all those things, and I was letting all of them out, like, you know, opening a Pandora box and

just letting it fly. But then the most surprising thing happened is people started reaching out and telling me how they are dealing with the same, how they're grateful I spoken up because they they are going through it. And we started having those conversations and, and that's when I knew, you know, what I needed to create this safe space for people to feel safe, to. To have these conversations because we are

shown about their taboo. You can't talk about financials, you can't talk about your mental health, you can't talk about sex. You can't, uh. Who said you can't? How do we get better if we can't have these conversations? How do we hear? >> Anthony Weaver: And it goes back to like, how is society is able to move forward if you're afraid to even talk about it? Because with the movement now is like certain histories you don't talk about now. So like, how do you

deal with. Well, you're only going to tell one side of it. Well, what about what was going on around that sub, around that topic? >> Paula Sima: You know, if you're not digging through. And that's why I tell people it's the same as. And this is why people are scared about therapy or working, working on themselves because, um, growth or, uh, working on yourself, which is something I'm still battling with and I've been doing. It's a, it's a process because you have to dig.

And as soon as you think you're better, uh, you dig into something which opens all these other wounds and you have to go deeper into them and figure them out. And people don't like knowing that, baby, sometimes you are the problem. You know, people want to point fingers. People want to say, it's because of him I am broke. It's because of him. I didn't get this. No, look into yourself. Why are all these people doing that to you? What is your problem? And I had to sit and

constantly look. And I realized there's one time I came out and said, I realize I am, um. I used to pride myself in thinking I am a great, A good friend, like a great friend. And I realized I'm not a great friend. I'm a good person, but a great friend. No, I was lying to myself. And people kept asking me about. I'm like, yes, I was doing things, but I was doing things hoping that my friends do them to me as well. That's not being a good friend. You're supposed to just

do things. So there were certain things I was finding out. And that's why maybe I was getting mad at certain friendships or certain friendships ended. Because even though there was no that, that condition in me, I was putting those conditions without knowing. And. And it takes digging deeper into why the am I like this to realize certain things. So, yeah, yeah. >> Anthony Weaver: So what helped you find yourself? Like, were there books? Did you journal? Did you go to therapy?

>> Paula Sima: Um, so I, believe it or not, I hate, I hate cell phone books. >> Anthony Weaver: Okay. >> Paula Sima: I hate self help books. I. And I read, but I read a lot of crime, um, and, um, autobiography books. I learn a lot from autobiographies because I like learning people's journeys. And that's why, even when I pivoted my podcast from mental health to creative journeys and mental struggles, because I want to share

people's creative journeys. Because we always assume, oh, somebody just got there, like, I want to be there. But you don't know what they went through to get there. So don't excuse your journey. Don't just think people just went to sleep and woke up and here they were. And you want to be there, but you're not doing the work they did or more than they did to get where you're going. And that's why I love autobiographies. And I've always had this idea of my own autobiography in the

future. So it's kind of also like research. But, um, so it's just, um, learning from people's, um, journeys. I read a lot of autobiographies, but there's also this book, um, I forgot, hold on. Pope Francis. Um, it's funny. Uh, I hate Catholic. My parents are Catholic. Thank God I, I didn't grow up, uh, Catholic. But there's this very little book by Pope, uh, Pope. Pope Francis. Um, I'll get the name of it. I, um, don't know why I can't find it right now.

He has several books, but there's this specific one and I literally just found it the other day because I was,

I was getting interviewed and that was part of the, the question. And I, and I had it in there. But, um, so that book really opened my eyes in a different way because he spoke in a very human way than like leading Christianity or Catholicism or anything. So that, um, helped. But also therapy. I'm, um, a firm believer in therapy. It took me, I went on and off to therapy. And, um, I'm actually thinking

right now about going back to therapy. But again, therapy is also exhausting because finding the right fit, it's just like relationship, right? You have to find the right person who gets with you. But also, um, I journal a lot. I do journal a lot. And I'm working on a new book journal coming out. But, um, and one of the biggest thing was accepting that something was wrong with me. And I needed help. And I think once you get there, even if you don't have access to therapy or to books, you will

start digging into yourself. I'm, um, a person who literally digs into myself. And um, I don't know if it's healthy or not, but that's why sometimes I don't sleep. I will sit, I will lay at night and I'll be like, why didn't this work out? And then I'll go deep in, okay, I did this, this, this, they did this, this, this. What could have been done better? And then once, uh, I figure that out, I pray, I pray a lot. Um, I have

a very on and off relationship with God. Uh, because growing up I was forced into religion, Christianity. You know, you're woken up every Sunday to go to church and you had to go to Sunday school and you had to get communion and you had to all that shit. And then I moved from home and went to college and nobody's there to wake you up on Sundays to force you to church. So I took a backseat. Like God, who on Saturday we are turning up, we are too late. I am waking up on Sunday to go to

church. And then when I started battling my depression, I remember, um, me and my mom are not close. I'm more close to my dad. But something told me to call my mom. And I called my mom and I started crying telling her something is wrong with me. And one thing my mom said, she didn't dismiss it, uh, she didn't try to understand it, which I'm grateful. Or she told me was like, Paula, prayer. Pray and pray and pray and God will give you the

answers. And funny enough, I started praying and my heart felt less heavier the more I kept on praying, like something is being lifted. So I have that Bible app on my, on uh, my phone. I read, uh, I look for plans that help me with what I'm going through. And they have mental health plans, they have self esteem plans. They have, they have, have all the plans you need and you can read them with a friend.

Like send links and share and you and your friends read together and discuss so you can do it by yourself. So that was one of the biggest tool I started with that before even therapy. >> Anthony Weaver: Nice. Okay, so try to do it to kind of really know yourself before you actually go in and not waste your money for therapy. >> Paula Sima: What are you going to tell them if you haven't really look like anchors? Whether you say or not that one hour is, they're gonna still charge you.

So, uh, it's at least. And I tell people, don't waste the money unless you're really sure you wanna work on yourself. And that's why certain people come and say, oh, therapy doesn't work. No, baby, it's not that therapy doesn't work. Did you actually do the work? Because it requires you doing the work. It requires you having those conversations, it requires you looking deep, deep in and doing those exercises and following through. And that's why I had to commit to myself

first to do it by myself. And, and all those who say, oh, I have my girlfriends, I don't need therapy, trust me, I know too. But your girlfriends ain't gonna tell you unless your girlfriend is Paula. Because I will tell you the truth. And some of my friends hate me that much because I, I give it to them, uh, as it is, with as much love as I can. But also your friends isn't the same. And that's why you, you need to speak to a stranger because they don't have

loyalty to you. They don't care about your past, they don't care about hurting your feelings, they don't care about sugar coating. You need somebody who's gonna give it to you as it is. And that's why start with yourself looking yourself in the mirror. And, and it's funny, I haven't told anybody yet. You get to, to speak. You get to see this first. I' project. >> Anthony Weaver: Okay. Uh, what's that? It's because you got your background. There you go.

>> Paula Sima: Uh, so, um, it's a new project called sh. Come on. Shattered Mirrors. I'm looking at myself and cracks of mirrors breaking up. And last um, year. October, November, I was having a very hard time and I spoke to Shout out to the High Hope Breakfast Club, Walter Dominic and, and Streamyard Chris recording Streamyard Chris. And um, they were helping me figure out what was going on with me. And um,

they said something which stuck with me. So, um, I started working on a project where I was literally picking everything that I was dealing with. Like, okay, today I'm feeling this. Then I would record a 20 minute episode. Why am I feeling that? What is going on? And then I, and then I write it in a book and then I turned it into a journal and then I did an exercise. So that helped.

And that's why I said after going through this, I'm like, now I'm ready to go back to therapy because I know exactly where my pinpoints are and where the help needs. So don't just jump into therapy first. Look within yourself and

pray. I think when you pray, it does bring that out of you. You start seeing what needs to be fixed. >> Anthony Weaver: And I think the m. Because you pray, it's like you're doing it in threes. So you're already thinking about it

now that you're actually saying it it. And then you're actually listening into it because you're actually bringing it to light of what is actually either a bothering you or you're thinking about and how you actually going to navigate or the logistics of this new feeling or this remapping of your brain for something that isn't, that wasn't there or used to be there, that isn't there anymore. And I think that is really good, um, way to kind of deal with that mental health, ah, process.

Um, so I actually have a question of about like, because we are working with the sandwich generation and you know, dealing with your parents, um, having this discussion and letting them know where you are as a person, as an adult, as a young. Well, to them they are, uh, in their eyes, I'm sure

they still look at you as a little baby girl. But like, like, how was that conversation with them to kind of say, like, you know what, hey, this is how I feel and I would appreciate you if you treat me this way to set those barriers. >> Paula Sima: So, um, I am blessed with incredible parents. Um, my mom is still a typical African mom. Um, but thank God we haven't lived together in 10 plus, not 20 plus years. I haven't been in my mom's prison, so

she can tell me. I mean, even if she wanted to whoop me, she couldn't, right? But, um, so the first time when I, uh, when I came out with depression, right, I started, I wanted to start this thing called life with Paula. And um, I remember when I had the conversation with my mom about depression, um, me and my mom really didn't dig deep into it. As I said, she, she didn't try to understand it. She didn't. She just told me to pray. And we have never really sat down and had

a conversation again. My mom chooses what she wants to, to be a part of and, and you know, and me and I are not close. So God forbid, if this was my brother, it would have been a whole other thing. She would have probably traveled to the moons to find cure for him. But that's a whole other conversation. But as far as my dad, um, which was a little bit more hard, um, because I'm a government kid, right? Government kid means my family is in the government.

So, um, you have to be Kinda very, um, very aware with what you put out there because they take everything and I. And attack you, especially when it's time of political stuff back home. But then again, I haven't been home a long time. And that's why most people wondering why at one point my Facebook name was different, my Instagram. It was because I don't want my, my, uh, shit to interfere with m. The political stuff. Because one thing is for sure, my family knew from a young

age that they can never. Since Apollo, I was that rebellious kid with a loud mouth. I am gonna say what I'm gonna say. I grew up a tomboy. So I was not the normal typical guy you put in the kitchen and train her to be a wife or whatever. I was none of that. I was loud. I, I like they knew they, they just had to let me be. But I also am aware that the things I do put out might affect my family since they are in the government. So I tried

to be sensitive towards that. So when, when I wanted to start life with Paula, when I first realized about my depression, I did have to have a conversation with my dad because our life with Paula was starting on Instagram. And then we ended up creating a support group

on WhatsApp. So I did have a conversation with my dad and I was like, dad, listen, I'm, um, dealing with depression and I feel like the only way for me to heal is to start having these conversations, which means that I will be putting my business out there, which means that it might be used on you guys. And I don't want that, but I also want to do what's best for me. And my dad was do what you gotta do. So I'm grateful for

that. He was really very supportive. And the first live I did, he was even on the comments telling me, language, please. Mind you, I learned to be this language from my father. And then now, you know, he gets older, he starts cleaning his act and he's like, oh, you gotta clean your. I'm like, well, you are 20 years ahead of me, so give me time. But, um, it turned out to be very good because then when I did that first live and people started pouring in, the WhatsApp group had like 30 people.

And some of them were my friends. One of them was my cousin who was my close friend who I found out almost tried to kill herself. But again, because these are things we don't talk about, the family was hiding it. And hiding it doesn't help because you're not getting her help. You're making her Feel ashamed about something that she didn't have control over instead of actually allowing her to speak on it so she can get better, help and be around people who know how to be with her.

So in that group, all these things were coming out and seeing some of my friends dealing with things, and I, I missed it. Like, I, I didn't know that was one of the painfulest things. And I went and I told my dad and my dad was like, well, then keep doing it. You can't stop now. And that support group was like, when I look at all of those people right now, where they

are and what they're doing. And one time some of them came to me and they're like, paula, because you started this, you gave us the stre to go on. And it wasn't that we did anything for each other. It was just that we had a safe space for people to, to talk without being told, oh, uh, it's gonna be okay. Oh, at least you have this. Like, people really just listened and checked in. And sometimes people, all people want is just to be listen. I don't

want an advice. I don't want. I, uh, just want you to hear me. >> Anthony Weaver: Just hear you. Yeah. >> Paula Sima: Yeah. So, um, I'm grateful that I, I, My dad gave me, um, a go ahead and was like, do what you gotta do. And I'm grateful that my mom really doesn't give a, like that to, to, to tell me no. But trust me, if she does hear things, she doesn't, she's not on my socials, unlike my dad. My dad follows me everywhere sometimes. It's so annoying.

But my mom is not on socials and I doubt she listens to my podcast, so. But I feel like if she did hear some of the things, she would be like a proper African man. But my dad is cool. He has even been on my podcast to share about raising me. Me and him were invited to another podcast together as a father, daughter, uh, duo to talk about relationship and depression. And even the fact that my dad also came out to me. I was like, I also deal with depression. And I go, so it was like. And these are

conversations you need to know. Like, our parents also have mental health struggles, but we look at our parents like healers. They can't do anything, but we need to also be there for them in their mental struggles, just as they need to be there for us. So have those conversations with your people. You never know who's struggling.

>> Anthony Weaver: That is true. Um, because like, a lot of things, like, I don't really share, obviously, On a show because I'm like, I don't need that kind of scrutiny or like just people just kind of keep asking me questions about things and I'm like, let me just be me for a moment. I'm gonna be my hermit. I'll throw out an episode that I pre recorded from a live show, throw it up on RSS feed. I got things to do. Um, but so having those moments,

I understand. Because, you know, podcasting is a lot and you produce yours weekly. Um, I do mine weekly, but I do several episodes a week and it's. >> Paula Sima: It'S a wait when you see. When you say several, several episodes a week, what do you mean? >> Anthony Weaver: Oh, um, so I do a pre recorded show like this one and then obviously I do the chop up with edits and everything like that. So I throw those out for the socials. Then I have an AI episode

that comes out after that does like. So it's like an AI summary episode like 20 minutes or so that comes out uh, before I release the next episode on the next Tuesday. But then I do also a live show every Thursday at 8pm Eastern. So because of that live show. Yeah, that's what a lot of people say. They was like, you really don't have kids, do you? I was like, no. But I, because of the feedback and people who actually listen to the

show that find value. You and either the topics that I'm talking about, how can I help them? This is a reason why I do it. Um, in my live shows is where I'm actually testing out features, testing out things and streamlining my processes and seeing. >> Paula Sima: How I like those live shows. I try to catch them as much as I can.

>> Anthony Weaver: I, um, appreciate it, you know, because it's one of the things that just like, you know, it's Thursday night, Friday Eve, whatever you want to call it, you know, let's end the week out strong, have a good Friday, um, and just kind of get people in positive mood before the, the weekend starts. And that's really my goal. >> Paula Sima: Yeah, you should start bringing back the, the round tables again. I enjoy the round tables when you had different people

on the uh, on ah, a conversation. You know, I feel like, uh, because I'm thinking about putting talk show with Pete to bed and trust me, I've gotten a lot of hate from that and PodFest everybody. Because one thing, um, PodFest was my last picking gig. I don't want to speak again. Not this year. And then, uh, I was talking about putting Talk show with P2B and not coming to Podfest next year. And people are like, paula, we are tired of this. What is going on with this Last. Last final. Final. Like

this. We're not doing this. But I feel like if I ever bring it back or something, uh, it will be like round tables. I like having different perspective in one table and different objections and learning from people at the same time. But it also, it. What sucks about it is people don't get as much time because if you have. You're trying to put it under and now or something, but you also want everybody to have a pointer. Uh, it should be like

either one question or two question. But. But however much you prepare, people don't understand about conversations. I. I normally have questions. Right. Just so that I can remember in case we. We sidetracked. Because you get sidetracked. And I have those must ask questions and those questions just in case there's still time. And then sometimes you just go into different segments and you're like, you know what? This is

much more better than the questions I had. And then the next thing you know, time is gone and you really haven't hit in other spots. So imagine when you have the round table and everybody's kind of like, that's the only bad part I hate about roundtables, but I really love them. >> Anthony Weaver: Yeah. And I guess you could say, because it's a difference between being a guest and being a host.

Because hosting them, um, I'm like, yo, I got like eight questions and I, um, maybe get through five. That's it. Because, uh, everything goes off the rails. And this. Which is good. But also it depends on how big the round table is. And sometimes an hour is not long enough. Yeah. So if you're gonna bring one, let me. >> Paula Sima: One guest. And the conversation is so good. One hour can feel

like 30 minutes. And then you have that. Guess where you have to pull everything where 30 minutes feel like an hour. I'm kind of putting my podcast, uh, uh, like I am gonna finish season nine. I'm not gonna promote it as much. I'm gonna dump all the lives episodes. I've already picked out yesterday. The lives that I did. I want to bring them to ISS feed. I want to end Talk show with you with 10 season. The plan was to record, uh, the. The season 10 a podfest, but boy, did I not

even have time to record. I always tell myself I record live when I'm, um, conferences. But I'm always doing too much. Ah. I do way too much m. That I do not have a time to do anything. So I Wasn't able to. To do that. But, uh, maybe I might do the season 10 in. In round tables, but like, instead of four or five people, like two, three. That way it goes. But also, I've realized I enjoy being a guest more than being a host. >> Anthony Weaver: Yes, it's a lot. I, uh, trust me, I

understand. I, uh, I get it. >> Paula Sima: Because unless I have a team, if I just show up and be a host and record and then the team does everything, I can be a host, but the host also does everything that I get how exhausting podcasting is. People think only it's so much fun, all these things. But the back end, the editing, the marketing, the promoting, the. The getting it out there on time, um, the design, the consistency, like, it is a lot. And, and that's just a person

who's just doing one show a week. You. You have all this other as well. Like. >> Anthony Weaver: I mean, I. What else I do. I mean, yeah, so I do help people on the side, um, who are beginner podcasters. Um, I help people with their finances. Uh, so, yeah, I build out the cycles and schedule everything. I mean, that's the only thing. If I didn't have a scheduler, a lot of this stuff wouldn't happen. Um, because I tried before.

>> Paula Sima: How do you use, like, what m. I use calendly. >> Anthony Weaver: Yeah, they don't have a referral code, so I'm like, hey, whatever, just get it. Um, and I highly recommend them. >> Paula Sima: Emailing them. You never know. You know, sometimes I tell people all it takes is a, uh, conversation. Just because you. You don't see doesn't mean they don't have it. Or if you might be the one who makes them bring it. Cause a

conversation. I always tell people, shoot your shirt. Like knocking there. Just send an email. Hey, I'm using this a lot. By any chance do you guys have. You never know. Even if they say no, you're already on a nose, so what's there to lose? >> Anthony Weaver: Yeah, that is true. Um, because I didn't realize, like, you know, have you ever

got people that say, like, yeah, I'm so afraid to ask you. I've been afraid to ask you to be on your show or something like that because, like, how as much as that you do. And it was like, oh, I didn't even know. Or have you ever had it happen? >> Paula Sima: Oh, no. I get too many people wanting to come talk with me. I think my, uh, the thing with me is because my podcast is called Talk with Peace. So, uh, everybody, when they hear the name, the first thing is I want to talk shit.

Okay. But it's not really a, ah, kind of like just come in and talk kind of po. Uh, so I get that. And, and that's one thing I used to fear when I started podcasting. I was like, where will I get the guest from? And now I have too many guests, too many people. They're like, ah, people constantly want to be on my show. Because the structure of my show used to be, um, I would take a break like, like December, uh, to January I'll be on a break, right? Because Christmas I put up the last episode,

um, December, closer to Christmas. And then I'll take that, the remainder like that time off in January because I always know there's spot first. I'm never coming back in January. So that episode started in February, but I start recording in January. So what, what I normally do in my break, I always take two months break. The one month is for me to just really relax and worry about podcasting and just do other things that I need

to get together for my podcast. And then the second month I do, I uh, I do my recordings because in that one month of relaxing, I researched what theme I want for this season, what type of guest I want. I've already reached out to the guests and they have scheduled and all that. So then second month, because I, I, I record. I know every season I have 15 guests I record. So when I come back, the episodes are already ready. I do not have no recordings. All

I have to do is every Wednesday make sure. Uh, but also I hate editing. So sometimes I know episode is supposed to come out on Wednesday morning. I'm um, editing like on Thursday late night, sitting up at 2 3am to make sure, sit at my 5am because I suck. So kudos to people who record and edit right after recording. I want to be like you guys when I grow up. But I me, as soon as I finish recording, I'm like, peace out until next time. Like, I forget about it.

So, um, so when the seasons, when the episodes are going and then people are coming to me, I want to be on your podcast. I'm like, you gotta wait until the next season. But then the next season, if I have a theme that you don't fit in, I'm not gonna have you. So I, I had a problem of too many people wanting to come talk. And even now, like when I've said it's ending, a lot of people like, oh, no, I haven't talked with you yet. You can't end it. You can't end It. I'm like, well, on

season 10, guys, I'm sorry. And I do have a lot of people who I want to bring home, but I'm like, I also don't want to kind of prolong. I want to end Talk shit with pin season 10. And then maybe I have a plan to rebrand it. Like how decision decisions did from horrible decision to decision decision. But I'm gonna rebrand it very different. But that's uh, a whole other maybe in 27. We're in 2025 next year. 2027, like, because next year I do not want to do podcasting at all for a while.

>> Anthony Weaver: M. Yeah, I mean, it's one of the things about podcasting is like this. It's almost like I, I want to stop, but I don't want to stop. Mostly because it's like I enjoy meeting new people and some people haven't had a chance to really sit down. And this is really the longest setup we ever got to sit down because when we in, in real life events, there's so many people asking for either your attention or ask for my attention.

And then we get turned away and it was like, like, all right, cool, I'll see you tomorrow. Like, that's how bad it is in these events. So, um, having those moments, I think it's, it's really good. And I appreciate you coming through today, uh, to kind of share that, um, because we have a lot of things to. That we've went over. Um, but one of the things I do, there's still two more segments of the show. So this third segment is talking

about your features. So like, what skills or habits that you feel is going to take you to the next level? >> Paula Sima: Well, believe, um, it or not, my loud ass talking mouth. Because one, um, thing, uh, a lot of people keep telling me how funny I am, right? And I was like, you know, there's a difference between being funny with your friends because you're just talking and they just find it funny and than going on the stage and,

ah, making people actually laugh. But for some reason, even though I tell them don't show up to mine, they always show up to my talk and literally they will enter. So even this, when I was doing my last talk at Podfest, right, um, the mike literally texted me 9:20, right? And it was richly 9:15 at that time. And I was getting ready to get on the stage, I was like, yes, but no, like Iraq.

And as I was getting on the stage, I see them walking with their humble, their breakfast because it was 9 o' clock in the morning and sit at the back. And I'm like, oh, God, why are you here? And then Joe was like, you know we don't go to talks, right? But for you, we have to come. I'm like, why are you wasting your five precious minutes? You know, you don't need to. They're like, no, Paula, I don't know why you're scared to speak, but you. You were actually good. I was like,

like, cool. So then the. The comedy was on Saturday and like, we're coming to the comedy. I was like, please don't come. Please don't come. They're like, paula, this is your first time doing a comedy show. We are coming. Enjoy looking at me like, paula, I'mma laugh so loud because you're my girl whether you're funny or not. But if you're funny, as soon as you get off the stage, I'mma tell you, don't quit your job. Okay? Don't. Don't ever do this and don't ever put us to this again.

I'm like, cool, just as long as you laugh while I'm on stage. So I. I was nervous as. Because where, uh, I did not practice at all. I wrote it up, but I did not practice. And I started practicing an hour before. And I was. Me and this girl, we were practicing together. And as I was timing myself because you have three minutes, I kept on ending at one minute because I was talking too fast. Like, I still had one minute. And I was like, like, damn, how is this gonna

work? So I started getting like, man, it. I'm a cancer. I'm not gonna show up by m. My head. Um, I'm like, Joe and Mike are gonna kill me. And everybody was coming there. Oh, Paula is doing comedy. We are coming to see Paula. So people literally come. I'm like, I can't do this. And last year, because I was supposed to do it last year, but, um, I was late to pick a number because I was getting awarded and Mike hated me because we stayed through the end of it because Mike thought I was still doing

it and was like, I was here for. I was waiting for you to go on stage. I'm like, oh, my bad. So I was like, I'm not going to do that again to them. So I got on the stage and I ended up pivoting because the person who got off the stage was Kim and was talking about Gangnam Styles. So I was like, oh, this is a nice entryway with me being Tanzania. I'm like, yeah, people Ask me, are you from Africa? No. Africa

is a continent, not a country, people. And I do not know that friend of yours from West Africa, because I'm from East Africa. We don't all know each other just because we're African. So I started with that. So in my head, um, I'm thinking, oh, now that. Because you remember. Because I couldn't do it, for one, I was still left to. I mean, I'm like, since I

added this, which wasn't part of it, I will. But, boy, wasn't I able to finish my set, because the three minutes you like, they rolled up first, but I was still able to. I watched and I closed it out, but I missed a few things. But when I got out, um, because we had comedians also who came. Because the night before there was an actual comedy show. So the comedians were there. Jacob was there, who even used

me as part of his closing line. I was like, okay, so, um, everybody was like, yo, Paula, that was amazing. You were funny. Like, we really, like, enjoyed even just like, yeah, let's get you into comedy now. So, okay, um. Shout out to Steve. Shout out to Jeff Drosky was helping me. Even Steve was like, paula, now I can take you as a client. I'm like, now I can even pay you. I wanted to make sure first I know if I'm, um, I can actually do this before starting paying people. People too.

But now, even if y' all are telling me I am good, even Jacob was like, you just gotta learn how to speak slower because you have an accent and people need, in order to understand, you kind of need to slow down. You speak very fast. I was like, ah, I get that. Maybe that's why the three. The three minutes when I was timing myself was going fast. So I guess my future is in comedy. And that's why I'm kind of really ready to. To. To. To let go of podcasting.

Even though, as you say, you know, podcasting was. I, I, I love the people you meet and the conversations you have. You don't have these normal conversations you have on podcast, on, On. In real life, on street. Like, sometimes you get lucky. Yes. But when you're interviewing somebody or getting interviewed, you have a different type of connection conversation that just goes deeper than you. You expect. And I feel like comedy is kind of the same way because you get to connect with people

even though you're talking. And literally, I was talking about dating apps and, like, I was talking about, you know, but you still connect to people because there is somebody out there who really Feels what you're going through, and. And it just connects. So anything that brings connection. I'm, um. I'm a sucker for connection. And I feel like that's the void I have. And that's why these days, the people

who are in my life have to mean something. Like, I don't care if we've known each other for long if there's not that connection, if we are not healing each other's soul. You gotta go, baby. I'm sorry. So, um, anything. My future is consisted of comedy and, um, just connecting with people. As I said, I'm planning on leaving America this year, and, um, uh, I feel like my life is just about to

start. Like, the future is unknown, and I kind of like it like that, but I know comedy is part of my future. >> Anthony Weaver: Nice. Well, I appreciate you taking time out, you know, to come through the show, to really share that, because sometimes we don't know what we don't know until we try. And that's why I always laugh when they say, oh, this person is the best in the world. I was like, did everybody get a ticket chance?

Did everybody try? Like, no. >> Paula Sima: By what circumstances? Questioning the norms when they say, oh, you can't do this. Who said I can't do this? Why can't I do this? Like, we need to question more, and if we stop worrying about what people say or anything, do the damn thing. And I feel like, um, a lot of people, even the. This goes out to any podcast out there was being frustrated or things like. Podcasting is supposed to be the.

The get rich scam. You can get rich in, uh, with podcasting in different ways, which is connections, opportunities, the doors that it opens you into. Like, the relationship I have with the Mopad boys, it. It wouldn't have happened without, uh, podcasting. Like, those boys have become part of my family in ways that I can't even explain, like, legit when I'm sick. Like right now. They've constantly been bothering me,

all three of them, in different levels. One is messaging on Instagram, one on Facebook, one on. On group chat. It's like, okay, I get it. Y' all love me, but leave me alone. But it's the people come into your life and the opportunities that bring. So podcasting itself might not bring you money, but it might also open doors. Like, people figure out the. They. They prefer being speakers, and some get paid to speak. And it all started because of podcasting. People like me, I'm getting into

comedy. I wouldn't, uh, have if it wasn't for Podcasting. So there's all these ways than just one of being successful with your podcast. Can I say my podcast is successful. It not because it has brought me money, not because of the downloads I have, but all the opportunities. Yeah, I won an award at Potfest. I became a governor at portfolio to the extent where Chris literally tells me, paula, do whatever the you want as long as we don't get in trouble. Like this is the guy who runs the.

>> Anthony Weaver: That's awesome. >> Paula Sima: You know, to trust me like that, uh, Mopad boy. At one point, the amount of credit they gave me for Mopada was myself, like, like, are you kidding me? Like this. So there's yesterday. The other day I got a message from somebody who I've known, a professor. And they're like, I'm extending my team. Would you, uh, are you interested for a talk? And I'm like, sure, let's talk. I got a job from a person who I met, a

portfolio. So there's all these other, all these amazing things that, that my podcast has brought to me more than money could ever do. So. >> Anthony Weaver: Yeah, that's amazing. >> Paula Sima: Question. When you, you know that question of, uh, when you think about wealth, ask me that question. >> Anthony Weaver: Okay, well, that's actually the first question. So. Ready? So you have anything before we dive into the final four?

>> Paula Sima: Yeah, I, I felt like I was going in that direction. >> Anthony Weaver: It's okay. >> Paula Sima: I'm taking over the job. >> Anthony Weaver: I know, right? Take over my whole show. Like, you don't even need to be. Just run the whole show, Paula. Just. You got this. Okay. Apparently. Uh, so anyway, you have anything before we dive into the final four questions of the show? >> Paula Sima: Um. Damn, that was loud. Excuse me. Um, go subscribe to talk show

with me. Because I'm the best. Because I said I'm the best. Hey, no, I want to say, um, um, you know, earlier you talked about how you kind of met me, so I wanna, I wanna give you your pros as well. Um, uh, I've seen you do your thing, you know, um, I've watched you at a podcast movement. I've watched you at, um, Afros. I've watched you at, um, think on them. We were everywhere last year. >> Anthony Weaver: Last year was a lot. It was a lot.

>> Paula Sima: I don't even know how we did that. Um, what I can say is don't let nobody dim your light because in this industry, um, the so called gurus have a way of making people seem less because of their so called glowness. But, um, you, me, by watching you, I admire your work ethic. How you move, how you run your podcast, and how you stand up for your. So keep doing your. I am, um, proud of you. And, um, I mean, I wouldn't be jumping into your

lives every now and then if I really didn't. Like, I'm sorry, I don't, I don't listen even to podcasts. Let me tell you something. Like, I don't. I, I, I, I'm a, I am a podcaster who hates listening to podcasts. Like, and that's why once a month, I'll do a post on, on. On Facebook and be like, drop your favorite episode, let me go listen to it, and leave you a review. Because otherwise, baby, unless. Unless it is, um, the blessed word, shout out to Dominic and

Kendra, who do amazing job with that. Ah, that became appeal because it was kind of like a therapy podcast for me. And lately also Jenna's, uh, episode, uh, podcast, Big Lush Energy. I just love how she talks and shares. Ah, unraw truth. I still miss certain episodes, but, um, apart from really those, I, I don't be even. No offense. Mopad will tell you I don't listen to their Friday night karaoke, but when they are live on Facebook, I will jump and watch and support and

I will share. And then my bo And I love them. Sometimes they'll even be like, well, have you listened to this episode? I'm like, no. Why go listen to it? I'm like, why go listen? They'll have my glasses with my. I'm m. Like, oh, my God, thank you so much. I should have listened to you before y' all tell me. But, um, I suck at that. But I find ways to still support in the ways I know,

and that's why I tell people. Even, Even if you don't listen to podcasts, there's different ways you can support your, Your, your podcasters. You can share it. Just because you don't listen to it doesn't mean the people in your circle won't listen to it. You can like it. You can go review it, at least. I try to listen at least one episode of somebody and go live a review. That's all it takes. Like, you know, so it's not always about money or constantly listening. It's all

these other ways. So I just want to tell you, keep doing your thing. I'm proud of you. And, you know, you. You're the. Damn, you're the best. >> Anthony Weaver: Appreciate you, papa. I, um, mean, you've. Yes, you have really lit a fire up under me on, like, you know, just kind of be excited about what you do versus, like, yes, I get to do this, but you actually help me understand on why I do this and to actually get excited about it again. Um, because,

you know, this does drain on you a bit. You know, sometimes you're like, man, if you start looking at the analytics, it will kill your joy. Um, but I'm excited about every episode that I put out. So it's like, this is it. >> Paula Sima: Um, comparison is a thief. Like, when you comp. Sometimes I, I used to do it and I stopped. I'd look like, oh, you've only been podcasting for a year and you have 10k. And I've been podcasting

for four years and I'm only on this. So when you think about that, it does, does kill you and might make you question, um, yourself. But then one thing I learned also is to be like, even if you have 50 downloads on an episode, that's 50, people are listening. Even if you have one, that's one person who took time out to listen. And, um, and that's why it's always good to remember your why. Like, when you know why you're doing it. The numbers shouldn't matter. None of

that should matter. Keep following your why and eventually it will come. I am a firm believer in as long as you keep making yourself great, like you can compare to others. If you just want to be great like people who you admire and you're like, I want to be as good as them and just to learn to get yourself better, that's fine. But if you're comparing why they're doing it and this, no, because you end up losing yourself because you're constantly be copying them instead of learning from them.

There's a difference between copying somebody and then failing or learning from them. Just, uh, uh, uh. Because just because that worked for them doesn't mean it's going to work for your podcast. But you can learn to implement how it can work for your podcast and that's where we need to be. And I always remember my why. So most of the time when I really want to give up. And I've had so many times where I've wanted to give up on, um, podcasting and everything.

And then I'll drive get that one review or one inbox. Thank you for, for this. You really helped me this thank you for. And I remember this is the reason I'm doing it. But also my podcast has been also therapeutic for me. The conversations I've had have helped me heal, have helped me learn to be a better me or realize My growth. Because sometimes I'll be listening to somebody. I'm like, damn, I would have hanged up on you right now. But because I'm a better me right now, I'm a listen, and

I just agree to disagree. Because it's okay to agree to disagree. You don't all have to be on the same page because just because it worked for them and you don't believe it doesn't mean it doesn't work. >> Anthony Weaver: Yeah. >> Paula Sima: So I think sometimes we get into that mindset, and it's all about changing your mindset, which I'm, um, constantly learning. It's not an easy thing, because once you're like that, trust me, sometimes I really want to go off.

And I'm like, paula, uh, if you go off, you're going five times behind of the growth of you've been doing. Is it better? And sometimes when I go off, that means I'm disrupting my peace. I'm very much these days into being at peace and creating a peaceful space for me. So I just be blind to that. And. And that's okay. >> Anthony Weaver: Yeah. All right, so ready for the final four? >> Paula Sima: Yeah, baby.

>> Anthony Weaver: All righty. All righty. Number one, what does wealth mean to you? >> Paula Sima: Ah. So to me, wealth means peace. Believe it or not, um, I. I don't want to be rich, but I do want to be, uh, financial. What's the word? Financial. >> Anthony Weaver: Independent. >> Paula Sima: Yeah. I want to be able to

live a simple life. I'm not a person who likes designer or anything, but I love traveling and experiencing new things and enjoying the world and eating good food and drinking good alcohol and being in good restaurants. That's my thing. Like, uh, you give me 10,000 to go buy, uh, a Louis Vuitton bag, I'm, um, gonna go spend it in different restaurants and eat good food.

Like my. My m. Uber bills. My uber bill knows every time I get a paycheck, I have to order myself a good ass meal from that Uber, and then the rest goes everywhere else. So, um, for me, wealth is peace. I feel like when you have peace, you have wealth because people assume that you can be re. Wealth is being so rich. But then if you don't have peace, what's the point? >> Anthony Weaver: I like that. All right, number two, what was your worst money mistake?

>> Paula Sima: Oh, baby, how many times? There's no one. We write a whole book of follows money. But I feel like the biggest one should be, um, when I first came to America and I didn't know, uh, about credit score and all these credit cards decided to give me credit Cards. And, uh, I had like four or five with different. And in the beginning, I was doing good. You know, I was new, I was decorating, I was traveling. And then eventually I got lazy into paying back that, you know,

and then they just piled up. And then now you learn all your credit score goes down or now you can't get anything on credit. And so I think that was. And ever since then, I have not had a credit card. And I've lived in this. This space where if I can't afford it by cash with my debit, I can't afford it. We will work hard and find it. Like, I literally got a credit card last week. I don't know why they sent it to me. >> Anthony Weaver: Did you apply for it? I mean.

>> Paula Sima: I don't know. Fidelity. Fidelity, please answer me. Why investment? Why did y' all send. And especially since I, uh, I cashed out my 401k and then they sent me a credit card. So I don't know what was going on. Which I also not sure if I did the right thing cashing out my 401k. But I also don't really give a. Right now with my financial situation. Everything is just like. But, um, that was probably the biggest mistake. And I thought.

And which started pissing me off with my friends because they would make plans on expensive places or anything, like, you know, and I would say, I'm not going. They'll be like, why put it in your credit card? I'm like, that's the point. I don't have a credit card. And I. Even if I did, I'm not putting on something on my credit card for your amusement. So. No. And. And

I've stood by that. Even with this credit card, I'm very strategic with, um, has come in time where, as I said, I'm getting ready to leave and stuff up with, uh, moving or whatever. But I. Yeah, credit cards. >> Anthony Weaver: Okay, number three, is there a book that inspired your journey or changed your perspective? >> Paula Sima: Oh, my God, yes. And I can't find that book. Pope Francis, what's the name of that book? Maybe I should go find the email that I

responded to. Okay, let's go to the last one and then I'll come back to this. >> Anthony Weaver: All right, let me talk about some edits I got you, though. >> Paula Sima: You got this? >> Anthony Weaver: Yeah. Yeah. All right, are you ready for number four then? >> Paula Sima: Yes. >> Anthony Weaver: Okay, number four, what is your favorite dish to make. >> Paula Sima: Any type of. Type of pasta. Like, I am a pasta. Ah,

freak. Like, I love pasta. Pasta and potatoes are my go to food. My Soul food. But um, I like playing because pasta you can play around with different like you know, Alfredo or uh, just add up and make it something, you know, like whichever spaghetti. And it doesn't just necessarily have to be pasta. Like it can be those elbows, whatever, like the spaghetti corner, the entire it. I just love playing around with it and especially with seafood. So I create

my own recipes. Sometimes I look online and see, oh, this. But I'm a tiny this way. So anything pasta. >> Anthony Weaver: Okay, sounds good. Alrighty. Well, you know, as we come through the very last question of the show, which is where could people find out more about you? >> Paula Sima: All right, so you can find me anywhere and everywhere at Talk Shit with P. Um, I'm very active on Instagram. I, um, will respond to Instagram DM than an email.

But also in the few months, uh, I, uh, I really do want to disappear out of social media. So, uh, I might be a little bit quiet in the coming few months on social media, but you can find me anywhere at Talk Shippy. >> Anthony Weaver: Okay. I still tell you looking for the book. >> Paula Sima: Oh, give me one second. >> Anthony Weaver: No, no, no, you can. >> Paula Sima: You know that we are done. Oh my God.

>> Anthony Weaver: Well, I mean once you get that, I just gotta do my closeout stuff and then if you want I can just do a close out right now. And then when you find. >> Paula Sima: Because you can just edit this. >> Anthony Weaver: Yeah, yeah, yeah. >> Paula Sima: I'm gonna mute myself. >> Anthony Weaver: Okay. >> Paula Sima: That way I find. >> Anthony Weaver: All right, well, hopefully you got something out of this particular episode. We had an

awesome opportunity to talk. Talk with Paula, um, talk shit with P. Definitely check out her podcast. And she has so many great value out of it. Now if you're one of the people who are actually dealing with ah, depression and you feel as though, uh, this is something that you might just need some help, uh, some immediate help, you can just dial 988- um- so that you can go ahead on and get that help today.

But one of the things I just want to let you know, like, hey, if you ever need somebody to talk to or if you, if there's a topic that you want me to kind of go through, just go ahead on and shoot me a DM at about that wallet on

Instagram. That's where I'm most active. Uh, or even just respond to one of the episodes on, or actually respond to this episode in the show notes, let me know because one of the things that I am curious about is like, how can we help you build, build a better relationship with yourself and also with your money. So with that everybody, I wish Y' all the best. We out. Peace. >> Paula Sima: All right. Ask me that question about the book again. I found it.

>> Anthony Weaver: Okay. Ah, well, make sure I got my. Because, you know, I got my little. My little notes. Okay. Number, um, three. Is there a book that inspired your journey or change your perspective? >> Paula Sima: Yes, that will be, um, the Name of God is Mercy by Pope Francis. That was a very good read. It stays with me until today. And I might just order another. The. The. The book. The copy right now on Amazon because I might need to read it again.

>> Anthony Weaver: Yeah, it'll be probably good for your journey, I guess. >> Paula Sima: It is indeed. >> Anthony Weaver: Yeah. All right. For my edits. But I know what to edit. >> Paula Sima: All right. >> Anthony Weaver: Um, cool. >> Paula Sima: Oh, wow. We spoke for one and a half hour. >> Anthony Weaver: Oh, dude. I know it's been recording that long, but, um, I'm sure we only. Yeah, it's been about that long. All right, it's back.

>> Paula Sima: It's been recording that wrong, but that's how long we've been talking. >> Anthony Weaver: Yeah, I mean, I'mma keep it. I'mma try to keep it as raw as possible, obviously at the end, move some things around. But, um, my audience do enjoy the long episodes because they do have long drives where they listen to the show when they going on flights and stuff like that. So. But like I said, I do have an AI episode that would do a summary of all of this for like 10 minutes.

>> Paula Sima: So the air comes out and this one comes out. And I will make sure to shade promote it. Is there anything you need from my end? >> Anthony Weaver: Um, no. If you haven't already subscribed to the show on, uh, Spotify, like, do you listen to Spotify? Uh, Apple. >> Paula Sima: What if I up. Even though I have. I mean, I just enjoying Spotify, but I normally go live reviews on Apple, but. Yeah, okay.

>> Anthony Weaver: Yeah, if you can just leave a review that'll be helpful for me. >> Paula Sima: I. Every time I. I always wait until the episode comes out and then I listen to it and then I write a review. Because whenever I guess I write a review as being a guest, but also as you being the host. >> Anthony Weaver: Ah, I like that. Okay, I need to go back to some of mine that I've been. I like that. Um, so yeah, if you ever need

me to. Well, that's right. You're already locked in and you're probably not doing any more anytime soon. You're more than welcome to come on a live panel. >> Paula Sima: Yeah, when I figure out what I'm doing. Season 10. Because these episodes, um, I'm putting them up from. They're gonna start going out from next week, and by March they'll be done. So I feel like season 10, because I want to end it this year. So I feel like I will work on that and start it maybe around,

uh. Because the project I'm working on right now. Let me see. Let me. >> Anthony Weaver: You gotta remove the filter. That's all. >> Paula Sima: Yeah. Let me remove my background. >> Anthony Weaver: Oh, let me stop the recording. Hold on. That recording.