OneUnited Bank podcast reframes shame as a path to success

OneUnited Bank is set to launch a new 10-episode podcast series titled Who’s Your Ma Honey? on Thursday, May 7, 2026.

The show will be available across YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Audible, and other podcast platforms, and focuses on personal narratives of shame, identity, and resilience as drivers of growth and empowerment.

The series is designed to examine what the bank describes as “undeserved shame”—a combination of unjustified guilt and social stigma—and how confronting these experiences can help individuals uncover personal strengths and pathways to leadership and entrepreneurship.

Exploring shame as a barrier to growth

The concept behind the series is rooted in the idea that unresolved shame can act as an obstacle to personal development and financial progress. Through guest conversations, the show aims to reframe difficult life experiences as sources of resilience and capability.

OneUnited Bank positions the initiative as part of its broader focus on economic empowerment and community development, highlighting the role of storytelling in addressing barriers to financial inclusion.
Personal story shapes the podcast’s concept.

The podcast title is based on the personal history of Teri Williams, President and COO of OneUnited Bank. Williams’ experience of transitioning from Indiantown, Florida, to Brown University informed the central narrative of the series, particularly her reflection on distancing herself from her upbringing and the influence of her great-grandmother, Annie Coachman, known as Ma Honey.

Teri Williams, President and COO, OneUnited Bank: "For years, I lost the memory of my great-grandmother and the impact she had on my life. My memory loss was rooted in shame. We all have a Ma Honey; someone or something we've been undeservedly ashamed of — that is actually the source of everything we've become. This show is about finding that truth, sometimes uncovering it in real time."

Focus on community and economic empowerment

The bank connects the concept of “Ma Honey moments” to broader themes of community development and generational wealth, suggesting that reframing personal narratives can support economic resilience.

The series will also feature a live community component, described as a shared space for reflection and storytelling aimed at encouraging forward-looking financial and personal growth.

Season one features public figures and advocates

The inaugural season includes guests from journalism, politics, activism, entrepreneurship, and the arts, such as Karen Hunter, Sybrina Fulton, Marc Morial, Frederica Wilson, Daniella Levine Cava, Addonis Parker, Sheena Meade, Felicia Hatcher, Trabian Shorters, and Dr. Delvena Thomas.

Each episode focuses on personal experiences that guests identify as formative challenges, reframed as sources of strength and leadership.

Leadership highlights storytelling approach

Teri Williams leads the initiative alongside Suzan McDowell, President of Circle of One Marketing, which specializes in purpose-driven campaigns and multicultural strategy.

The podcast is positioned as part of OneUnited Bank’s broader communication strategy linking financial education with personal storytelling and community engagement.

www.oneunited.com

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