Episode 22: Being A Teen Mom


The Journey of Empowerment and Resilience: Portia Franklin's Story

In an episode of the MindShift Power Podcast, we had the privilege of diving into the inspiring journey of Portia Franklin, a woman who turned the challenges of teen motherhood into a powerful story of resilience and triumph. Hosted by the charismatic and insightful Fatima Bey, this episode offers raw and honest conversations that aim to uplift and empower.


From Teen Mom to Advocate

Portia's story begins with her becoming a mother at just 14 years old. Raised by a single mom who worked multiple jobs, Portia found herself navigating the complexities of adolescence with minimal guidance. "I was like a free-range chicken just running around," she recalls, reflecting on her early years. Despite the challenges, Portia's determination led her to enroll in a specialized program for pregnant teens, where she found support and encouragement from teachers like Miss Bartel.


The Struggle for Education

Balancing the demands of motherhood and high school was no easy feat. Portia's determination to graduate on time, despite the odds, is nothing short of remarkable. "I went into my senior year with eight classes... I had classes after school, and Saturday classes," she shares. Her tenacity paid off as she walked the graduation stage with her class, setting a powerful example for her daughter and breaking family patterns.


A Life Transformed

Becoming a mother at a young age profoundly impacted Portia's life. "I would say it saved my life," she admits, describing how motherhood provided her with a sense of purpose and direction. She emphasizes the importance of making conscious decisions and rising above adversity. "I knew there was more to life. I knew I wanted more," Portia asserts.


Message to Young Girls

Portia's story serves as a stark reminder that motherhood should not be taken lightly. Addressing the concerning trend of teenagers viewing pregnancy as "cute" or "trendy," Portia offers heartfelt advice: "You are enough and you are worthy. You don't need to have a baby to be enough."


Impact on Current Work

Today, Portia is dedicated to empowering women through her podcast, "Sparkle with Portia Franklin," where she disrupts toxic patterns and inspires others to overcome life's challenges. Her personal experiences have shaped her mission to help women find their worth and embrace their potential.


Ready to dive deeper? Listen to the full episode of the MindShift Power Podcast with Fatima Bey The MindShifter here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2217223/episodes/14203964

Share by: