As we stand on the brink of a new year, it’s time to pause, reflect, and appreciate the journey. 2024 has been one of the most challenging yet transformative years of my life. It was a year that tested me, pushed me, and ultimately shaped me into a stronger, more self-assured version of myself.
In this episode of Black. Girl. Iowa., I took a moment to review my year—the highs, the lows, the lessons, and what’s ahead for 2025. This is a look back at a year that, in every way possible, beat my ass, but also reminded me of my resilience, purpose, and ability to rebuild.
Biggest Accomplishment: Graduating from Grad School
Without question, my proudest moment of 2024 was graduating from Drake University on December 14th with my Master of Arts in Communication, emphasizing communication leadership and public advocacy.
Graduating wasn’t just about the degree—it was about reclaiming a dream that had been put on hold. I applied to grad school in 2022 in the midst of leaving my marriage, not fully sure if I could balance it all. But I did. And now, with a 3.7 GPA, I am officially done with school (for now!).
“The moment I got my degree, the first thing I did? Took a three-hour nap. Because exhaustion is real.”
With my degree now framed and ready to be displayed, I can’t help but wonder—is a Ph.D. next? We’ll see.
A Career Leap: Leaving Iowa State and Becoming an Educator
2024 was also a year of career shifts. After three years at Iowa State University, I decided to take a leap of faith and transition into teaching. I joined Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates (iJAG) and will be teaching career and technical education at Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) starting in February.
Coming from a family of educators, this move feels full-circle. My father, a 50-year veteran educator, is finally retiring (for real this time), and here I am stepping into the world of education.
“Soon, they’ll be calling me Professor Johnson. And honestly, that has a nice ring to it.”
Podcast Growth & Milestones
Black. Girl. Iowa. started as a passion project, but in just six months, it has grown into something much bigger.
- 28 episodes released since June 1st.
- 23 guest interviews with incredible Black voices across Iowa and beyond.
- Over 10,000 followers on TikTok and growing engagement on Instagram.
- Presented at the Iowa State Conference on Race and Ethnicity, reinforcing the power of storytelling with The Other Iowa Girl
The biggest lesson? Black stories matter. And this podcast is here to make sure they are told.
“I never imagined this podcast would mean so much to me. But now? I can’t imagine not doing it.”
Personal Wins & Celebrations
Beyond career and education, 2024 was about celebration and self-love. Some of my personal highlights include:
- Turning 38 and making birthday dinners an annual tradition.
- Reading three books (Trick Shot by Kayla Grosse, Legendborn by Tracy Deonn, Regretting You by Colleen Hoover)—not quite the 12 I aimed for, but progress!
- Finishing 15 diamond paintings, spending 387 hours crafting.
- Watching over 60 documentaries, diving deep into stories and history.
- Celebrating my 20-year high school reunion, reconnecting with old friends.
- Completing a journaling prompt book, documenting my thoughts, past, and future.
- Taking graduation photos with my dog, George, because he’s been with me through it all.
- Seeing Justin Timberlake live in concert, a generational artist for me.
“2024 may have beat me up, but I still found joy, and that matters.”
Hardest Decision: Leaving an Abusive Relationship
One of the biggest challenges this year was walking away from a relationship that no longer served me.
I shared my story in Black. Girl. Speaks., and while the experience was painful, it taught me one of the most valuable lessons—love should never hurt, and I deserve better.
“Looking back, I now see the rose-colored glasses I wore. But walking away was the best thing I could have done for myself.”
Healing is ongoing, but in 2025, I’m focusing on rebuilding, rediscovering my worth, and protecting my peace.
Goals for 2025
Instead of overwhelming myself with 10+ goals, I’m keeping it simple and intentional:
- Read 12 books – Prioritizing joy and learning through literature.
- Pay off a credit card – Small financial wins matter.
- Furnish my apartment – Creating a space that feels like home.
- Complete another journaling prompt book – Continuing my self-reflection journey.
- Attend an NFL game – Because football is life, and stadium bucket lists are real.
Final Thoughts: 2024 Owes Me Nothing
If there’s one thing I’ve learned this year, it’s that resilience isn’t just about survival—it’s about transformation.
Yes, 2024 was hard. But when I look back, I see growth. I see accomplishments. I see a woman who kept going even when the odds were stacked against her.
“I am not the same woman who started this year. And that is something to celebrate.”
As we step into 2025, I’m walking in my truth, telling my story, and embracing what’s next. Here’s to a new year, a new chapter, and more Black girl joy.
Join the Conversation
How was your 2024? What are you manifesting for 2025? Let’s keep the conversation going—drop a comment or connect with me on Instagram (@blackgirliowa).
Until next time—stay bold, stay joyful, and keep telling your story.
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