Black Girl Burnout

You Cannot Optimize Your Way Out of Grief

May 27, 2026

Sometimes grief doesn’t look like falling apart — sometimes it looks like becoming incredibly productive. In this episode, Kelley reflects on the realization that she had been producing healing instead of actually experiencing it, and how years of survival mode, caregiving, medical trauma, and loss shaped her relationship to grief. Through personal storytelling and thoughtful reflection, she explores how Black women are often culturally rewarded for over-functioning while quietly disconnectin...

The Life You Worked For Might Be Exhausting You W/ Zerlina Maxwell

May 20, 2026

In this episode, Kelley is joined by political analyst, writer, and speaker Zerlina Maxwell for a powerful conversation about visibility, truth-telling, and navigating the pressure of being a Black woman in public spaces. Together, they explore the emotional toll of constantly having to prove yourself, the importance of boundaries, and what it means to remain grounded while living and working in highly demanding environments.Zerlina shares reflections on ambition, identity, and protecting you...

Breath, Mindfulness, and Black Joy with Oneika Mays

May 12, 2026

In this episode, Kelley sits down with mindfulness teacher and creative visionary Oneika Mays for a grounding conversation about breath, presence, and reclaiming joy as a daily practice. Together, they explore how mindfulness can help Black women reconnect with themselves in a world that often rewards constant output over inner peace.Oneika shares how breathwork, creativity, and intentional pauses have supported her healing journey and helped her cultivate more spaciousness, clarity, and joy....