Black Girl Burnout

In this vulnerable and reflective episode, Kelley shares a truth many high-achieving Black women can relate to: she’s been hiding—and it’s been holding her back. She introduces the concept of the visibility wound, unpacks the connection between undergiving and burnout, and shares what’s changing on the podcast to support your healing in real-time.💡 Today You'll Learn:Why the visibility wound runs so deep in our communityThe connection between undergiving and hidingWhat’s changing with the podcast (👀 hello new cadence!)And a preview of a powerful new free guide to help you start showing up fullyThis episode is a loving truth-telling moment—and a call to begin practicing presence, visibility, and self-honoring in everyday life.✨ Episode Highlights: 01:06 The Visibility Wound in the Black Community02:44 Personal Achievements and Professional Background05:18 Addressing the Visibility Wound09:09 Changes to the Podcast Schedule10:50 Upcoming Tools and Resources15:07 Encouragement and Final ThoughtsWays To Support The Podcast:⭐ Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify (goal: 1,000 reviews!)📲 Follow on TikTok & Instagram (@blackgirlburnout)💬 Tag a Black creator, artist, or entrepreneur you’ve supported recently. Stay engaged! Follow us on Substack: Substack🎧 Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it!👉 Let’s continue this conversation: What’s one act of reciprocity you’ve done this week? DM us or comment on our latest IG post!Remember, support isn’t just about money. Visibility, engagement, and amplification matter, too.Want To Partner With Black Girl Burnout: sponsorships@blackgirlburnout.comCheck out Happy Mammoth and use my code BGB for a great deal: www.happymammoth.comConnect With Resmaa MenakemWeb: www.resmaa.com www.culturalsomaticsuniversity.thinkrific.comhttps://blackoctopussociety.comhttps://blackoctopussociety.com/subscriptions/Instagram:@resmaamenakemBGB Community Minute l Aline LopesATTN: BGB Community In Dorchester (Boston Area) Massachusetts, we are happy to highlight an amazing upcoming play in your area. We need your help to support this event.Note From Aline Lopes:My name is Aline and I am a theatre company owner from Boston. Our productions are focused on stereotypes and taboos surrounding mental health that exist in black and brown communities.About The Play:The play's name is "The Many Faces Of The Strong Black Woman: The Dark Days", and we will be performing at the Strand Theater in Dorchester, MA April 4th and 5th, 2025. The play is a part of a series of plays that displays different stories of black women maneuvering through the stressors of life all while trying to live up to the ideals held by the idea of "the strong black woman". The plays are meant to highlight the interconnectivity that exists between our biology and our race. The play displays some of the ways these factors impact us as black women living in the US. This particular play showcases what happens when all the members of a sisterhood are simultaneously struggling to manage their individual mental health status. The play focuses on the ways we interact with our inner circle and the world beyond when our mental health is suffering. This production displays some of the dark ways we impact ourselves and those close to us when our mental health is deteriorating. The story is told through dialogue, dancing, singing and rapping. The production collaborates with local artists and works hard to use as much original local music as possible. Where:Strand Theater543 Columbia RdDorchester,, MA 02125When:Friday April 4, 2025Saturday April 5, 2025Attire:Evening / Cocktail AttireTime:The play begins at 7pm - 8:30 (20 minute intermission). Afterwards there is a meet and greet with the cast. Coffee and desserts are served during this time. Art:We will also be displaying paintings and other visual arts pieces, from college and high school students in the gallery. Purchase Your Ticket:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-many-faces-of-the-strong-black-woman-the-dark-day-tickets-1242367557809?aff=oddtdtcreatorLearn More About This Organizationhttps://www.thecrewproductions.com/#BlackGirlBurnout #OptOutOfStruggle #ReciprocityMatters #SupportBlackWomenOur Sponsors:* Check out Green Chef: https://greenchef.com/50BGB* Check out Homeaglow: https://homeaglow.com/BGBAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Relationships should be a place of rest—but what if they often feel like the opposite?In this episode of Black Girl Burnout, host Kelley Bonner dives deeper into the spirit of annihilation—a concept introduced by Resmaa Menakem—to explore how inherited trauma fuels conflict in Black relationships. She unpacks how historical wounds manifest in our interactions today and why choosing rest is a radical act of healing.But here’s the truth: Healing doesn’t come from ignoring the wounds or making excuses. It comes from recognizing the ways we perpetuate cycles of harm, setting boundaries, and choosing rest as a form of resistance.Kelley Highlights✅ The difference between frustration and the spirit of annihilation—and why it matters✅How generational trauma shapes Black relationships today✅Why cultivating accountability is an act of love✅ A new approach to healing—by rejecting toxicity and embracing restIf love has ever felt exhausting, if relationships have left you feeling drained—this episode is for you. Because healing begins when we stop making excuses and start making space for peace.Ways To Support The Podcast:⭐ Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify (goal: 1,000 reviews!)📲 Follow on TikTok & Instagram (@blackgirlburnout)💬 Tag a Black creator, artist, or entrepreneur you’ve supported recently. Stay engaged! Follow us on Substack: Substack🎧 Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it!👉 Let’s continue this conversation: What’s one act of reciprocity you’ve done this week? DM us or comment on our latest IG post!Remember, support isn’t just about money. Visibility, engagement, and amplification matter, too.Want To Partner With Black Girl Burnout: sponsorships@blackgirlburnout.comCheck out Happy Mammoth and use my code BGB for a great deal: www.happymammoth.comConnect With Resmaa MenakemWeb: www.resmaa.com www.culturalsomaticsuniversity.thinkrific.comhttps://blackoctopussociety.comhttps://blackoctopussociety.com/subscriptions/Instagram:@resmaamenakemBGB Community Minute l Aline LopesATTN: BGB Community In Dorchester (Boston Area) Massachusetts, we are happy to highlight an amazing upcoming play in your area. We need your help to support this event.Note From Aline Lopes:My name is Aline and I am a theatre company owner from Boston. Our productions are focused on stereotypes and taboos surrounding mental health that exist in black and brown communities.About The Play:The play's name is "The Many Faces Of The Strong Black Woman: The Dark Days", and we will be performing at the Strand Theater in Dorchester, MA April 4th and 5th, 2025. The play is a part of a series of plays that displays different stories of black women maneuvering through the stressors of life all while trying to live up to the ideals held by the idea of "the strong black woman". The plays are meant to highlight the interconnectivity that exists between our biology and our race. The play displays some of the ways these factors impact us as black women living in the US. This particular play showcases what happens when all the members of a sisterhood are simultaneously struggling to manage their individual mental health status. The play focuses on the ways we interact with our inner circle and the world beyond when our mental health is suffering. This production displays some of the dark ways we impact ourselves and those close to us when our mental health is deteriorating. The story is told through dialogue, dancing, singing and rapping. The production collaborates with local artists and works hard to use as much original local music as possible. Where:Strand Theater543 Columbia RdDorchester,, MA 02125When:Friday April 4, 2025Saturday April 5, 2025Attire:Evening / Cocktail AttireTime:The play begins at 7pm - 8:30  (20 minute intermission). Afterwards there is a meet and greet with the cast. Coffee and desserts are served during this time. Art:We will also be displaying paintings and other visual arts pieces, from college and high school students in the gallery. Purchase Your Ticket:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-many-faces-of-the-strong-black-woman-the-dark-day-tickets-1242367557809?aff=oddtdtcreatorLearn More About This Organizationhttps://www.thecrewproductions.com/#BlackGirlBurnout #OptOutOfStruggle #ReciprocityMatters #SupportBlackWomenOur Sponsors:* Check out Green Chef: https://greenchef.com/50BGB* Check out Homeaglow: https://homeaglow.com/BGBAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Relationships should be a place of safety—but what if they often feel like the opposite? In this episode of Black Girl Burnout, we explore what Resmaa Menakem calls annihilation energy—the deep, destructive force that lives in our bodies and relationships due to inherited trauma. We unpack how Black Men and Women engage with each other, the unspoken tensions that shape our connections, and why healing is more than just self-care—it’s an act of resistance.But here’s the truth: Healing doesn’t come from tips and quick fixes. It comes from deep inquiry, from tending to the wounds we’ve inherited and the ones we’ve created. It requires learning new ways to be with ourselves and each other.Kelley & Resmaa Highlight✨ The difference between anger and annihilation energy—and why it matters✨ How historical trauma shapes our relationships today✨ Why safety and tenderness must be cultivated, not assumed✨ A new way to approach healing—without urgency or shameIf love has ever felt like a battleground, if connection sometimes feels impossible—this episode is for you. Because healing begins when we stop fighting and start tending.Ways To Support The Podcast:⭐ Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify (goal: 1,000 reviews!)📲 Follow on TikTok & Instagram (@blackgirlburnout)💬 Tag a Black creator, artist, or entrepreneur you’ve supported recently.🎧 Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it!👉 Let’s continue this conversation: What’s one act of reciprocity you’ve done this week? DM us or comment on our latest IG post!Remember, support isn’t just about money. Visibility, engagement, and amplification matter, too.Stay engaged! Follow us on Substack: SubstackWant To Partner With Black Girl Burnout: sponsorships@blackgirlburnout.comCheck out Happy Mammoth and use my code BGB for a great deal: www.happymammoth.comConnect With Resmaa MenakemWeb: www.resmaa.com www.culturalsomaticsuniversity.thinkrific.comhttps://blackoctopussociety.comhttps://blackoctopussociety.com/subscriptions/Instagram:@resmaamenakemBGB Community Minute l Aline LopesATTN: BGB Community In Dorchester (Boston Area) Massachusetts, we are happy to highlight an amazing upcoming play in your area. We need your help to support this event.Note From Aline Lopes:My name is Aline and I am a theatre company owner from Boston. Our productions are focused on stereotypes and taboos surrounding mental health that exist in black and brown communities.About The Play:The play's name is "The Many Faces Of The Strong Black Woman: The Dark Days", and we will be performing at the Strand Theater in Dorchester, MA April 4th and 5th, 2025. The play is a part of a series of plays that displays different stories of black women maneuvering through the stressors of life all while trying to live up to the ideals held by the idea of "the strong black woman". The plays are meant to highlight the interconnectivity that exists between our biology and our race. The play displays some of the ways these factors impact us as black women living in the US. This particular play showcases what happens when all the members of a sisterhood are simultaneously struggling to manage their individual mental health status. The play focuses on the ways we interact with our inner circle and the world beyond when our mental health is suffering. This production displays some of the dark ways we impact ourselves and those close to us when our mental health is deteriorating. The story is told through dialogue, dancing, singing and rapping. The production collaborates with local artists and works hard to use as much original local music as possible. Where:Strand Theater543 Columbia RdDorchester,, MA 02125When:Friday April 4, 2025Saturday April 5, 2025Attire:Evening / Cocktail AttireTime:The play begins at 7pm - 8:30  (20 minute intermission). Afterwards there is a meet and greet with the cast. Coffee and desserts are served during this time. Art:We will also be displaying paintings and other visual arts pieces, from college and high school students in the gallery. Purchase Your Ticket:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-many-faces-of-the-strong-black-woman-the-dark-day-tickets-1242367557809?aff=oddtdtcreatorLearn More About This Organizationhttps://www.thecrewproductions.com/#BlackGirlBurnout #OptOutOfStruggle #ReciprocityMatters #SupportBlackWomenOur Sponsors:* Check out Green Chef: https://greenchef.com/50BGB* Check out Homeaglow: https://homeaglow.com/BGBAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of Black Girl Burnout, host Kelley Bonner is getting real about reciprocity—what it means, how we often block it, and why it’s time to shift our mindset. Too often, we take from the spaces that pour into us—our friendships, our communities, and even the creators and entrepreneurs who inspire us—without giving back.This conversation isn’t about guilt; it’s about unlearning old habits and making reciprocity a daily practice. If we truly believe in community and abundance, then we must match our actions to our values.Kelley shares:✅ The ways reciprocity (or the lack of it) shows up in our relationships and communities✅ How the legacy of over-giving has shaped Black women’s experiences✅ Simple, actionable ways to give back daily (and they take less than 5 minutes!)✅ A direct challenge to listeners: Let’s get Black Girl Burnout to 1,000 reviews on Apple & Spotify!Let’s make reciprocity a movement—together! If this podcast has poured into you, this is your moment to give backWays To Support The Podcast:⭐ Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify (goal: 1,000 reviews!)📲 Follow on TikTok & Instagram (@blackgirlburnout)💬 Tag a Black creator, artist, or entrepreneur you’ve supported recently. ⭐ Stay engaged! Follow us on SubStack: SubStack🎧 Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it!👉 Let’s continue this conversation: What’s one act of reciprocity you’ve done this week? DM us or comment on our latest IG post!Remember, support isn’t just about money. Visibility, engagement, and amplification matter, too.Want To Partner With Black Girl Burnout: sponsorships@blackgirlburnout.comCheck out Happy Mammoth and use my code BGB for a great deal: www.happymammoth.comConnect With Resmaa MenakemWeb: www.resmaa.com www.culturalsomaticsuniversity.thinkrific.comhttps://blackoctopussociety.comhttps://blackoctopussociety.com/subscriptions/Instagram:@resmaamenakem#BlackGirlBurnout #OptOutOfStruggle #ReciprocityMatters #SupportBlackWomenOur Sponsors:* Check out Green Chef: https://greenchef.com/50BGB* Check out Homeaglow: https://homeaglow.com/BGBAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Lately, life has felt heavy—but what if that weight isn’t just yours? In this episode of Black Girl Burnout, we explore what Resmaa Menakem calls the squeeze—the collective pressure Black women are feeling in this moment. We unpack how history, trauma, and societal expectations create an overwhelming demand to push through, even when our bodies and spirits are calling us to pause.But, here’s the truth: Not everything is meant to be carried. Some things—old beliefs, obligations, and patterns—must fall away to make room for growth. Resmaa calls this Generative Decay, the process of allowing what no longer serves us to release so that we can step into something new.Join us as we dive deep into:✨ How to recognize when you’re being squeezed✨ The myths about strength and resilience that keep us stuck✨ What it means to tend to yourself instead of pushing through✨ Practical ways to start releasing what no longer serves youIf rest feels unfamiliar, if stillness makes you uncomfortable—this episode is for you. Because when the world squeezes, we rest.Stay engaged! Follow us on Substack: SubstackIf this podcast resonates with you we 💓reviews! We would sincerely appreciate 5 Star reviews on Apple Podcast & Spotify:)Want To Partner With Black Girl Burnout: sponsorships@blackgirlburnout.comMarch Sponsor:Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code BGB for a great deal: www.happymammoth.comConnect With Resmaa MenakemWeb: www.resmaa.com www.culturalsomaticsuniversity.thinkrific.comhttps://blackoctopussociety.comhttps://blackoctopussociety.com/subscriptions/Instagram:@resmaamenakemOur Sponsors:* Check out Green Chef: https://greenchef.com/50BGB* Check out Homeaglow: https://homeaglow.com/BGBAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of the Black Girl Burnout Podcast, host Kelley Bonner welcomes the first male guest, Resmaa Menakem, a renowned therapist and trauma specialist. They discuss the vital topic of rest and its significance for Black women. Resmaa offers insights into racialized trauma, cultural dynamics, and how rest can be a revolutionary act for Black women. The conversation highlights the importance of tending to our bodies and minds, and the necessity of breaking away from urgency culture. Despite some audio quality issues, the richness of the dialogue is maintained, promising an enlightening series over the next three weeks. More, more, and still more is within your reach in 2024. Tune in today and prepare yourself to engage in realistic strategies that can help you with opting into a life filled with abundance and joy.If you haven't already done so, Subscribe Today!If this podcast resonates with you we 💓reviews! We would sincerely appreciate 5 Star reviews on Apple Podcast & Spotify:)Stay engaged! Follow us on Substack: SubstackWant To Partner With Black Girl Burnout: sponsorships@blackgirlburnout.comCheck out Happy Mammoth and use my code BGB for a great deal: www.happymammoth.comConnect With Resmaa MenakemWeb: www.resmaa.com www.culturalsomaticsuniversity.thinkrific.comhttps://blackoctopussociety.comhttps://blackoctopussociety.com/subscriptions/Instagram:@resmaamenakemOur Sponsors:* Check out Green Chef: https://greenchef.com/50BGB* Check out Homeaglow: https://homeaglow.com/BGBAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of the Black Girl Burnout podcast, host Kelley Bonner discusses the importance of evaluating relationships based on how they make you feel — whether they bring rest and nourishment or leave you feeling drained and exhausted. The episode encourages listeners to set boundaries, adjust dynamics, and even eliminate toxic relationships in order to cultivate connections that provide ease, joy, and mutual support. More, more, and still more is within your reach in 2025. Tune in today and prepare yourself to engage in realistic strategies that can help you with opting into a life filled with abundance and joy.If you haven't already done so, Subscribe Today!If this podcast resonates with you we 💓reviews! We would sincerely appreciate 5 Star reviews on Apple Podcast & Spotify:)Stay engaged! Follow us on Substack:SubstackStay informed! Subscribe to our newsletter : www.blackgirlburnout.comWant To Partner With Black Girl Burnout: sponsorships@blackgirlburnout.comCheck out Happy Mammoth and use my code BGB for a great deal: www.happymammoth.comOur Sponsors:* Check out Green Chef: https://greenchef.com/50BGB* Check out Homeaglow: https://homeaglow.com/BGBAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of the Black Girl Burnout Podcast, host Kelley Bonner discusses the importance of setting boundaries in our relationships without experiencing burnout. Kelley explores why boundaries can feel challenging, the common indicators that boundaries are not effectively set, and how to create healthy and sustainable boundaries. She emphasizes the need for boundaries to be clear, simple, firm but flexible, and energy-preserving. More, more, and still more is within your reach in 2025. Tune in today and prepare yourself to engage in realistic strategies that can help you with opting into a life filled with abundance and joy.If you haven't already done so, Subscribe Today!If this podcast resonates with you we 💓reviews! We would sincerely appreciate 5 Star reviews on Apple Podcast & Spotify:)Stay engaged! Follow us on Substack:SubstackStay informed: www.blackgirlburnout.comWant To Partner With Black Girl Burnout: sponsorships@blackgirlburnout.comCheck out Happy Mammoth and use my code BGB for a great deal: www.happymammoth.comOur Sponsors:* Check out Green Chef: https://greenchef.com/50BGB* Check out Homeaglow: https://homeaglow.com/BGBAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of the Black Girl Burnout podcast, host Kelley Bonner discusses the importance of doing less in love to cultivate deeper, healthier, and more fulfilling relationships. The BGB podcast focuses on recognizing the signs of overperformance in relationships, including feelings of exhaustion, anxiety, resentment, and fear. Kelley shares her personal journey and provides tips on how to do less in relationships, not just romantic ones but also with family, friends, and community. The episode aligns with the month's theme, 'March into Rest,' and the year-long goal, 'New Year Heals Me'. More, more, and still more is within your reach in 2025. Tune in today and prepare yourself to engage in realistic strategies that can help you with opting into a life filled with abundance and joy.If you haven't already done so, Subscribe Today!If this podcast resonates with you we 💓reviews! We would sincerely appreciate 5 Star reviews on Apple Podcast & Spotify:)Stay engaged! Follow us on Substack:SubstackStay informed: www.blackgirlburnout.comWant To Partner With Black Girl Burnout: sponsorships@blackgirlburnout.comCheck out Happy Mammoth and use my code BGB for a great deal: www.happymammoth.comOur Sponsors:* Check out Green Chef: https://greenchef.com/50BGB* Check out Homeaglow: https://homeaglow.com/BGBAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of the Black Girl Burnout podcast, host Kelley Bonner discusses the importance of bringing more softness into relationships and reframing softness as a strength rather than a liability. She dismantles the myth of the 'strong Black woman,' urging listeners to embrace vulnerability, intimacy, and tenderness to create deeper, more fulfilling connections. Kelley shares her personal journey of becoming more cuddly and setting healthy boundaries, emphasizing that softness and strength can coexist. More, more, and still more is within your reach in 2025. Tune in today and prepare yourself to engage in realistic strategies that can help you with opting into a life filled with abundance and joy.If you haven't already done so, Subscribe Today!If this podcast resonates with you we 💓reviews! We would sincerely appreciate 5 Star reviews on Apple Podcast & Spotify:)Stay engaged! Follow us on social media:Facebook, IG, YT, TikTok: @blackgirlburnoutTwitter: @blkgirlburnoutStay informed! Subscribe to our newsletter : www.blackgirlburnout.comWant To Partner With Black Girl Burnout: sponsorships@blackgirlburnout.comCheck out Happy Mammoth and use my code BGB for a great deal: www.happymammoth.comOur Sponsors:* Check out Green Chef: https://greenchef.com/50BGB* Check out Homeaglow: https://homeaglow.com/BGBAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy