In a digital world obsessed with trends, algorithms, and curated perfection, Maryland Monroe is on a mission to bring one thing back to the forefront: realness. If you’ve scrolled social media, you’ve likely felt her energy—a blend of “home state” pride, iconic femininity, and a confidence so authentic it feels like talking to your favorite cousin.
As 1/3 of the Culture Klub Conversations podcast and the creative force behind the weekly “Sistahood Spotlight,” Maryland is making her mark as a bold voice for women’s empowerment. But the journey to the forefront didn’t happen overnight. For years, she was more comfortable behind the scenes, lacking the confidence to be active on social platforms.
Now, she’s an entrepreneur, developer, podcaster, and trendsetter—juggling it all and building a community rooted in something deeper than a double-tap. Today, Maryland Monroe opens up to SwagHer about her journey, her purpose, and how she’s building a legacy of authentic sisterhood.
Journey & Purpose
My journey to podcasting was born from my daily life. I come from a big family, and we talk about everything under the sun. I’ve always been the ‘go-to’ person for real, honest conversations. Culture Club Conversations was literally born from those daily chats with my cousins and friends.
One day, my cousin, Mz. Green Eyez, convinced me to turn those moments into a podcast. After almost a year of hesitation, I finally agreed.
I’ve always had this natural ability to connect and build meaningful relationships, both in person and online. I believe I attract people through authenticity and a genuine heart for others. Many women find me relatable because I embrace transparency and realness in everything I do.
My inspiration comes from a deep celebration of culture, sisterhood, and self. My goal is to redefine connection in this digital landscape—to use my platform not just to be seen, but to be understood and to uplift others.
Challenge & Growth
When I first came to social media in late 2023, it wasn’t easy. I was cyberbullied, and it was a tough moment for me. I was new to being at the forefront and wasn’t prepared for that kind of negativity.
But instead of letting that define my experience, I decided to change the narrative.
I wanted to use my platform to uplift women and create a space filled with love, encouragement, and genuine support. That’s how the Sistahood Spotlight segment was born. It’s my way of reminding women that we can, and should, shine together.
Originally, I planned to give the podcast just one year, but God clearly had other plans. Through this journey, I was blessed with the opportunity to connect with SwagHer Magazine, and that experience completely changed my life. It reignited my passion and gave me a new sense of purpose to continue creating.
SwagHer & Influence
It comes naturally for me to be my authentic self—flaws and all. In the spirit of SwagHer Magazine’s tagline, I am an intentional woman who keeps it real, always leading with purpose, passion, and authenticity.
My name itself is a blend of personality and home. Over two decades ago, my mother affectionately gave me the name Maryland Monroe. She joked that I was full of femininity and style, much like the iconic Marilyn Monroe. I embraced it but put my own twist on it, changing the spelling to reflect my home state of Maryland. When I began building my social media presence, it felt natural to use it.
And whew, that finger roll! It has always been my thing.
I’m very animated and I’ve been that way since childhood. The finger roll is definitely my signature. Whenever I agree with someone or get excited, I naturally start pointing my finger and twirling it clockwise before finishing with a confident point. It’s totally involuntary—I usually don’t even realize I’ve done it until people start laughing! It’s become this fun, sassy little trademark.
Practical Tip
People always ask how I manage it all. I own and operate two of my own businesses, while also managing a 9-to-5, and now I’ve added podcasting into the mix.
I’ve always had a natural ability to juggle multiple responsibilities and still stay focused. What keeps me grounded is simple: prayer and staying organized.
I thrive when I have structure. I map things out. But I also make space for faith to guide me and keep everything in balance. You can’t just hustle; you have to have a system, and you have to have a source of peace.
Legacy & Impact
My focus is on the conversations we, as women of color, should be leading. We have to talk about representation—not just being in the room, but owning the space, telling our stories, and showing up fully.
We have to talk about healing—breaking generational patterns and giving each other grace to grow.
We have to talk about ownership—building our brands, creating our businesses, and keeping control of our narratives.
And finally, authenticity. It’s time to stop shrinking ourselves to fit into boxes. Women of color set trends, shape culture, and inspire movements every day. We deserve to celebrate that loudly.
Essentially, I’m focused on using my voice and platforms to spark those meaningful conversations. I want to create more spaces where women of color can connect, share, and uplift each other—and throughout this process, I plan to continue with my journey of happiness!
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Connect with Maryland Monroe:
- Instagram: @therealmarylandmonroe
- TikTok: @therealmarylandmonroe7
- YouTube: Culture Klub Conversations
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