Checked Inn

Checked Inn is an enthralling reality television series that first aired in 2017 on the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN). This heartwarming show takes viewers on a unique journey, showcasing a quaint bed and breakfast nestled in the beautiful Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. Monique Greenwood, along with her supportive husband, Glenn Pogue and daughter, Glynn, run the charming establishment known as Akwaaba's Mansion. Greenwood, a former editor-in-chief at Essence Magazine, decided to leave her high-powered job in New York City to fulfill her lifelong dream of running her own bed and breakfast.

The series centers around the trials, tribulations, triumphs, and daily operations of Akwaaba's Mansion, a Victorian-style mansion converted into an upscale bed and breakfast. This peaceful scenic retreat is more than a place for guests to rest their heads; it's a place where relationships are revitalized, self-care is prioritized, and dreams are realized. Greenwood, with her immense hospitality, warmth, and professional touch, strives to provide a unique and luxurious experience that captivates and indulges her guests, providing them with a blend of relaxation, rest, and revitalization.

Each episode introduces viewers to Greenwood’s big-hearted approach to hospitality and follows a diverse set of guests as they check in and experience Akwaaba’s intimate charm. Guests range from couples seeking a peaceful respite from their hectic lives or those rekindling their relationships, to entrepreneurs seeking inspiration in the tranquil settings, to celebs escaping the limelight, to weekly themed events such as poetry weekends and girl's getaways. Each guest's story contributes a fresh, emotional and inspirational arc to the series, which compliments and enriches the ongoing narrative of the Mansion's daily operations.

The dynamic character of series protagonist Monique Greenwood brings this show to life as she balances her roles as a businesswoman, wife, mother, and friend. Her entrepreneurial spirit, natural warmth, and drive for excellence are the beating heart of Checked Inn. Her passion for the job is palpable, and her authentic concern for her guests' well-being is beyond admirable. Over time, viewers come to appreciate her ability to balance her personal life with her demanding profession, redefining the meaning of hard work and dedication.

The show also highlights Greenwood's efforts to empower other women, especially those of color, through her business. She does this by hiring primarily female contractors and suppliers and by inspiring her guests to pursue their own dreams. This attribute of the series resonates with a broad audience and adds a unique perspective to the show. It reflects the experiences, challenges, and possibilities of black entrepreneurship and offers hope and encouragement to aspiring entrepreneurs.

Also significant is the stunning backdrop — Akwaaba's Mansion. Its beautiful scenery, the nostalgic Victorian-style architecture, and the attention to detail in decor contribute to the show's enchantment. Each room is exquisitely designed with themes inspired by celebrated authors — an attempt to encapsulate simplistic elegance with a touch of cultural richness. One cannot ignore the prominent role the Mansion plays as it almost becomes a character in its own right, adding depth and grandeur.

Checked Inn serves a vast menu of emotions, from nervous anticipation of guests checking in to the heartening satisfaction when they leave, fulfilling their expectations and more. Alongside this, the relationship dynamics between Greenwood and her family, as well as among other employees of the Mansion, add a delightful and compelling element of drama. The delightful array of guests, each with their unique stories, promises an eclectic mix of heartwarming moments, unexpected drama, and a genuine celebration of diversity.

Furthermore, Checked Inn subtly offers a commentary on self-care and wellness, reminding us of our need to slow down, pause, and take a much-needed break from our often chaotic lives. It encourages us to prioritize our well-being, to dream and pursue those dreams, and to appreciate the spectacularly ordinary moments of our lives.

In conclusion, Checked Inn is more than just a reality TV show about running a bed and breakfast; it's a celebration of life, relationships, entrepreneurship, and the black experience. It offers viewers a heartwarming journey that encompasses deep human emotions and resilience, the beauty of hospitality, and the values of hard work, subjecting viewers to life's simple joys, heartening triumphs, and spirited dreams. As it unfolds, the series reveals the inn's magic, capturing the essence of togetherness, personal growth, restoration, and renewal that make every stay at Akwaaba's Mansion unique.