We recently had the chance to connect with Antoinette Barkley and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Antoinette , we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
My grandchildren , that’s what brings me joy right now
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Antoinette B, and I am the creator and host of the Antoinette B Take Over Podcast, a purpose-driven platform centered on truth, healing, and personal transformation. My brand was created from lived experiences—navigating betrayal, loss, growth, and the journey of learning how to heal out loud rather than suffer in silence.
What makes Antoinette B Take Over unique is the honesty. This isn’t surface-level conversation—it’s real dialogue about accountability, boundaries, emotional healing, and becoming a better version of yourself even after pain. I provide a safe space where guests and listeners can share their stories, reflect, and begin the healing process without judgment.
I am currently working on expanding the podcast into a larger movement that encourages people to face their truth, reclaim their power, and understand that healing is not weakness—it’s growth. Through every episode, my goal is to remind people that their story matters and that healing is possible.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
What breaks the bonds between people
Bonds are broken by betrayal, dishonesty, lack of accountability, unresolved hurt, poor communication, and repeated disrespect. When people feel unheard, devalued, or unsafe emotionally, trust erodes. Silence can be just as damaging as words—because avoidance allows wounds to fester.
What restores them
Bonds are restored through truth, accountability, sincere apologies, changed behavior, forgiveness (when it’s healthy), and open communication. Healing requires both sides to be willing to do the work—listening without defensiveness, acknowledging pain without excuses, and rebuilding trust through consistency over time. Some bonds aren’t meant to be restored, but even then, healing still happens when clarity and peace are chosen.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
I stopped hiding my pain when my mother died this year.
Losing both of my parents in the same year forced me into a healing journey I never asked for—but desperately needed.
I had to get to know a new version of myself.
I started by hiding my pain, then I learned how to use it as power—because I no longer had anyone to speak up for me.
So I had to learn how to speak up for myself.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m committed to trusting the process God has me on. Healing isn’t rushed, growth isn’t instant, and I’m willing to do the work for as long as it takes.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
What people might misunderstand is that everything I do comes from love. Even when I speak hard truths, it’s not to hurt—it’s to heal. My legacy is rooted in growth, honesty, and breaking cycles.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Msbarkley35
- Facebook: Antoinette B take over
- Other: Tiktok Antoinette B take over
Image Credits
Antoinette Barkley
