Some people tend to sugarcoat things or skirt around sensitive issues, but not Jada Pinkett Smith.
The celebrated actress keeps it real and that’s what makes millions tune into her popular Facebook Watch web series, “Red Table Talk,” which she co-hosts with her mom, Adrienne Banfield-Norris, and her 18-year-old daughter, Willow Smith.
Photo by Brown Girl Gumbo
The online talk show, which has taped more than a dozen episodes made its debut on the social networking platform earlier this year and instantly went viral – and for good reason. The content is explosive and engaging. No topic is off limits. They tackle it all. From body image perceptions and beauty ideals to grappling with loss and addiction, the hosts openly share their personal experiences through three distinct generational lenses in the comfort of the Smith’s family home in California.
Enlightening and eye-opening, the co-hosts’ candor and refreshing transparency make the show relatable for many people due to the hosts’ varying ages. Additionally, they have guests like Gabrielle Union and R&B singer August Alsina visit the red table to chat specifically about the various subjects at hand. “Red Table Talk” is the talk of the internet and earlier this week I had the pleasure of attending an intimate panel discussion here in New York City with Jada and her mom to celebrate the series’ new season, which premiered October 22.
While petite, Jada has an undeniably powerful presence that commands the room. She and her mother talked with us mom bloggers about parenting, marriage, self-care and more. Thanks to The Moms for hosting a lovely, illuminating and insightful Mamarazzi event.
Here are 5 of the biggest takeaways I learned from Jada and Adrienne’s red table talk:
- Parenting is not “one size fits all”: When it comes to raising kids, there’s no one size fits all method. Jada and Will Smith’s rearing came under fire in 2013 when they allowed their son Jaden to move out of their home at the age of 15. Jada expressed that she was initially devastated by her teenage son’s emancipation request, but knew that Jaden was wise beyond his years. Thus, she was confident that he would be fine on his own. Parents should keep in mind that we must tailor how we raise our children based on their unique individuality and personality. No two children are the same so parents must adjust accordingly when it comes to raising them.
- Titles can be limiting: It was a shock to learn that Jada doesn’t consider herself to be married to Will anymore. While I still believe in traditional “husband” and “wife” titles, Jada made a good point that people are merely human beings on a journey, which doesn’t require them to live within the constraints of the titles placed upon them. Love is boundless and thrives beyond any label or title. Whether you agree or disagree with their unconventional relationship, that’s a concept that many people can get behind.
- Kids won’t be perfect: There’s no such thing as a perfect person. So, why do so many parents think they can create and mold perfect children? News flash: it’s impossible. Jada eloquently stated that we know that perfection doesn’t exist so why do we put so much pressure on making our kids “perfect?” Let them freely express themselves so that they grow into well-adjusted, confident adults.
- Open-communication is key: Keeping the lines of communication open with your family breeds trust, confidence and stability. Having discussions about sex, drugs and other taboo topics with teens can be touchy and uncomfortable at first, but will pay off in the end. We were all young once and cultivating a space where your children can come to you to talk about sensitive subjects is the best thing you can give them.
- Me-time is important: Whether you’re a stay-at-home mom, entrepreneur, corporate executive or Hollywood actress, making time for yourself is crucial for your overall wellbeing. From meditation to pampering yourself with a “goddess bath,” like Jada enjoys, setting aside me-time is a priceless practice. Unwinding is essential and a way to relax and rejuvenate your mind, body and soul.
Check out “Red Table Talk” on Facebook. Here’s a clip:
Have you watched the show? If so, what’s your favorite episode?
