We’ve been fans of Brandi Sellers-Jackson for quite a while now. And frankly, it’s hard not to fall in love with her. She’s approachable and friendly – her smile is electric, her joy is utterly contagious, her dance moves are unparalleled, and her style is aspirational. Just check her out at @bstereo and you’ll see what we mean.  

Brandi Sellers-Jackson is a birth and postpartum doula, mom of three beautiful boys, musician, social media guru and (mom)ager at Ergobaby, co-founder of Moms in Color, and creator of the blog and social media movement #NotSoPrivateParts. Oh, and she’s writing a book! We’ve decided that there really isn’t anything she can’t do and we are here for all of it.

Brandi co-founded Moms in Color in 2018 out of a lack of diversity within the motherhood community. Moms in Color was created out of a necessity to create safe spaces for Black women; to inspire, motivate, and spread awareness around the topics that affect Black mothers most. We're thrilled to have been able to catch up with her at home and chat more about intersectional motherhood, how music influences her life, her most-loved pair of Mohinders, and her most recent title.

Tell us a bit about yourself! 

I am a doula, writer/author, and wellness expert. I am partnered with my best friend, and am the mother of three boys.

Can you tell us more about Moms in Color and what inspired you to start it?

I co-founded Moms in Color in 2018 out of a need for experiencing and seeing diversity within the motherhood community.

Tell us about the blog and hashtag you created, #notsoprivateparts and how it came to be?

After experiencing my first miscarriage in 2014, I saw very few spaces where pregnancy loss was being discussed. And I wanted to create a safe space for people to share the things many date to mentioned. Things that are so very private, yet are perhaps so very common.

You’re most known for your work in the space of birth education, intersectional motherhood, and spreading awareness around topics that affect Black mothers most—can you share more about how you honed these interests and identified those needs?

 I’m the kind of person and creator where when I see a need that either fills me up or that I am passionate about, I find a way to create the thing missing. I am a Black mother who saw that community within motherhood was and could be super whitewashed and exclusive. I wanted to create a more inclusive community.

You talk a lot about black joy on your instagram - can you tell us what black joy means to you?

It is joy. Unapologetically.

Your husband is a musician and you are a singer—amongst many other things, what role does music play in your life on a daily basis? 

We play music everyday in our home. Our kids are constantly introduced to old albums and artists that we grew up with.

What are you currently listening to?

A little bit of everything honestly! Put on some Prince, and it’s a good time! 

How did you become a postpartum doula? 

I wanted to hold space for new parents. I wanted them to know that they are surrounded. So I started off in postpartum work and then a year or two later switched over to birth work.

Mom guilt - do you feel it? And how do you squash it?

I used to feel it. However, now when I feel mom guilt, I try my best to examine where the feelings are coming from. Usually when I do this I can squash it pretty fast. 

Tell us about your background and where you grew up-

I was born in Bristol, CT. And then by the age of seven moved to to Alabama. It was quite the culture shock.

Who is your biggest influence?

Nature influences me. Watching how plants grow and ask what they need, clawing their way to sunlight, so that they can thrive. That’s amazes me. 

How did you find out about Mohinders? What is your favorite style - what do you have on rotation. 

Oh my gosh! I absolutely love Mohinders! I’m not sure if I have a favorite because I can find a reason to wear all the styles everyday. Sometimes, I wear an open heel Mohinder and then next day I’ll wear my enclosed woven. They are all amazing! 

You always look amazing. Full disclosure, when I feel uninspired by my closet and need a pick-me-up, I look at your instagram for style tips. Do you have any style advice for other busy moms? 

Ok, so now I’m flattered! Thank you! I’ve learned that wearing what makes you feel the most YOU, is everything. When you put on clothing that makes you feel more like YOU. That’s the best. Also, a good hat is the best. Hats make me feel like I cared for the day. 

Wardrobe staples/ brands you cannot live without? 

Hats hats hats and a good pair of old Levi’s.

What do you love most about being a mom in LA and raising kiddos in LA?

I love the weather. It’s the best. 

You’re working on a book - can you tell us about it? What inspired you to share your story. 

My book is called On Thriving! It’s publishing with Ballantine/ Penguin Random House! It’s beyond exciting. It’s about looking to nature and cultivating joy through life’s great labors. 

Go-to restaurant in Los Angeles? What should we not miss when visiting?

Nic’s on Beverly. It’s truly wonderful and delish!