Sister Struggles

“Sometimes as women, as people, we smile and act like everything is ok when it’s not.” Yolanda Sulton-Taylor joins me on the pod to talk about how growing up with low self-esteem and feeling unable to fully express herself shaped her journey. Those struggles eventually inspired her to write her book "Making It on Broken Pieces" and step into entrepreneurship by launching Yogo Mobile Solutions, a mobile drug screening service. In this conversation, we dig into redefining what strength really looks like and unpack the myth many Black women carry—that putting themselves first isn’t an option.Listen to part 1 of this episode on Apple Podcasts and Spotify! Link in BioGet your copy of Yolanda's book here! Book drug screening services with her here!Follow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcastTikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

In this episode of Sister Struggles, I discuss Rayvn Lenae, a rising R+B singer, who was called out for having a "white girl aesthetic", her response, and how blackness isn't easily defined. There are no limits, except the ones we place on ourselves.Listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!Follow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

"Healing isn't always glamorous or a straight line. Sometimes you have to go backwards, forwards, sideways to get through."Now this is one of the biggest reminders I took from Pt. 2 of talk with Shirria McCullough, therapist for ambitious millennial moms.Because It took me a LONG time to figure out. Also, we discuss how we have control over our healing and can take a break when the grief gets too rough. Is there still a stigma of therapy in black community? And our analysis of Nicki Minaj and her recent crashouts. Listen to pt. 2 of our deep conversation, on Spotify and Apple Podcasts!Support Shirria 👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾Ambitious Mom Reset: A Self-Care GuideSchedule An Appt with ShirriaFacebookInstagramFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

Nobody ever told me it was ok to disappoint people. But instead to silence myself so no one was uncomfortable, while feeling like I always had to be "on". And that's especially hard if you're a black mother, struggling to balance showing up for everyone and everything, but not prioritizing yourself. So when I sat down with Shirria McCullough, a therapist for ambitious millennial moms focused on their self care without mom guilt, she said something so on point. "Moms deserve to be happy and kids deserve happy moms."We also get into how black women also feel pressured to show up, say less, and still be grateful and why we truly don't owe anyone anything. Oh and Cardi B lately!Listen to part one of our deep conversation, on Spotify and Apple Podcasts!Support Shirria 👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾Ambitious Mom Reset: A Self-Care GuideSchedule An Appt with ShirriaFacebookInstagramFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

Black women are the originators of the side-hustle. Nobody can juggle like us, but do we have to?! In this episode, I explore if side-hustles are good for our mental health, on where the compulsion comes from, and are we having fun or nah?Follow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

"Your silence is keeping your shame alive. It's not yours to carry, and it's not your fault." On this episode I talk about the emotional toll of staying silent and what you can do to release what's holding you back. Let's talk about it.*FYI, this episode is dated. So some things have come to light (ahem, Diddy).Follow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

"If I show my anger, I’ll be the angry black woman."How do black women get to show their anger without looking like the stereotypical "angry black woman"? This is a question I've wrestled for too long until I realized I wasn't the problem. And it wasn't my problem to fix. So this episode is about letting go of shame in releasing the very valid anger we feel. And deflecting narratives that keep you stuck in that shame.Follow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

“If I don’t have it all together, I’ll look weak. Like I’m not good enough."Sound familiar? Because you're definitely not alone. This mindset is so common, especially with black women struggling to keep up the strong black woman stereotype. So in this week's episode, I get how these thoughts feed into the superwoman complex and hold you back from your rest, peace, and making the right choices for you. Next episode, I'll cover another limiting belief. Don't miss it!Hyper-IndependenceStop Waiting To Ask For HelpBlack Women + Healthcare, Dating w/out People Pleasing + Slowing Down Follow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

...who you're dating is a direct reflection of how you see yourself.In this week's episode, I dive into how easy it is to settle in relationships and how self-love truly changes everything. I share some juicy details about a past relationship, the mistakes I almost made, and what it took to finally realize it wasn't meant to be.Follow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

Wendy Matheka, a psychotherapist and wellness coach, on this episode speaking absolute facts! She shares the tools to help you (and me) actually process the real emotions, instead of trying to suppress or rationalize them. Follow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

Well what can I say... this was a tough episode to record. But it's real, and my emotions are real. And also, full of hope. So if this time is especially tough for you, I hope this episode helps you feel validated, supported, and empowered to make it through. Because we will. Together. Follow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

This black girl never cared about voting... until now. Follow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

This week I get into the struggles of being a black woman navigating the healthcare system, dating without people pleasing, and learning to take things slow, instead of rushing. Follow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

Do you feel pressured to "hold down" a partner, especially as a black woman? Catch this episode where I talk about why we stay in unbalanced relationships, even when something aint right. Also, Taraji P Henson's struggle to snag the bag she deserves, despite her fame, and how Dr. Antoinette Candia-Bailey's tragic story is a reminder to that institutional racism kills. Follow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

In this episode, I reflect on the blessings and mess of 2023 and share the people pleasing habits I don't plan on returning to. Like dropping "sorry" from my vocabulary unless it's truly my fault. Working with my body, instead of pushing it past its limits. And not ignoring what I want because I'm "trying to be nice". Mentions:r&b beats playlistFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

On this episode, my friend, local STL music producer, and new dad Prince Israel shares his perspective on what self care is like for black men, juggling multiple responsibilities, and maintaining boundaries in friendships and relationships.   Prince's Work:+ Follow @princetheprophet+ Tree House Collective record label @free.tree.houseFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

This week, it's a conversation I couldn't WAIT to have.  I talk with Sharitta Marshall, creator of the Mental Health Guide: A Black Woman Recovering from Corporate PTSD, about:                     - recognizing the signs early                     - how to stop yourself from internalizing a toxic work culture                     - code-switching, burnout, and that HR is not your friend, sis!Sharitta's Work:+ Follow her @sharittamarshall+ Her Divine Alchemy skincare line: @herdivinealchemy+ A Black Woman’s Guide To Recovering From Corporate PTSD articleFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

This week is inspired by Tyler Perry's foolishness. His recent comments about black women needing to compromise more in relationships has us all upset. ME INCLUDED. Let's get into it.Follow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

This week I've got a co-host! Brittany Covington, host of the TruthBTold Podcast and I get into this week's shade room hot topics. We talk Lizzo + Meg thee Stallion drama, calling out double-standards with women, dig into how your childhood affects your relationship choices today, and so much more.Follow Brittany: @truth_b_told_podcast_ & YouTube: @truthbtoldpodcast2847Follow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

People pleasing is self sabotage. And you're the one holding yourself back, sis. What decisions and paths have you let pass by to settle for less than what you actually  want? In this episode, I talk about how your people pleasing habits are keeping you struggling and settling, and how the solution starts with you. Mentions:The Mountain Is You by Brianna WiestSister Struggles Coaching ServicesFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

Are you used to saying "I got it. Im good.", even when you're struggling? Maybe it's how you've always handled tough situations and you're on autopilot. Or maybe you've convinced yourself you have no choice. In this episode, I talk how choosing to take on more than you have is a choice you don't have to make. Resources: Can Hyper-Independence Be A Trauma Response?Email me your self care questions or problems at: [email protected], rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

This week on the podcast, I talk:Why does being vulnerable feel so damn uncomfortable?What you gain for vulnerabilityHow Scandal's Olivia Pope perpetuated the "strong black woman" narrativeHow opening up in friendships + relationships creates space for honest conversation and intimacy Submit your self care questions for me to answer on the podcast!Follow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

This week on the podcast, I talk:the signs of a good friendshipare you maintaining friendships just to be "nice"?the time my college roommate stole from me!how to know if a friendship is working for youwhen to know when it's not workingFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

This week I break down the concept of "Pet to Threat", a term Dr. Kecia Thomas created to explain how black women are first embraced by employers for our experience and skills, but then held back when we start to show exactly how good we are.  Also hear me go off about my own experiences, finally feeling validated, and ways you can handle yourself at work if this sounds all too familiar. Forbes article: Pet to ThreatFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

This week on the podcast, business owner, writer & blogger Aisha Adams and I talk:Detaching from mainstream society's idea of a woman The "rich auntie" aestheticWhat having a relationship with yourself looks likeThe only self care tip I would EVER take from a manFind Aisha's resources here:Nappy Thoughts BlogNappy Thoughts FacebookLenoir-Rhyne University Equity & Inclusion Institute CoursesFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

Are you a chronic apologizer, even when it's not your fault? Are you quick to absorb blame to keep the peace? Well girl, this episode is for you! This week on the podcast, I talk:Instincts vs people-pleasingCan you really have too many plants?Why you talk yourself out of what you already knowThe steps you can take right now if you're unsureFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

This week on the podcast, it's part 2 of my conversation with Rene Canady, a WOC, Bioengineer, and Wellness Advocate (@jointhighpothesis).  We talk:Intentionally creating spaces that we thrive in, not just tolerateHow taking more risks for the things you want can get you a life you loveFinding our what's important to you = finding your peopleWhy doing nothing about your current situation is only making things worseFollow Rene's podcast: @jointhighpothesisFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

Season 2 is here! And on the first episode, my guest Rene Canady (@jointhighpothesis) and I waste NO time getting into it. We talk:The history of medical experimentation of black women + how modern science still has it wrong.The struggles of being a black woman in the science industry Embracing soft girl season instead of the strong black woman stereotypeHer radical approach against people-pleasing to reclaim her power (it's not what you think!)Follow Rene's podcast: @jointhighpothesisFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

Feel like you attract people who love your energy but you're the one left drained?Like  you're always giving way more than you're getting and everything is always about them? On this week's episode, I talk about my countless experiences with "energy vampires": How I sus them out, salvage my energy + time, + create boundaries to keep from getting sucked in.Tune in for new episodes every Sunday!Keep yourself accountable to your own needs + sign up for:Zuri Hall's podcast Hot Happy Mess Self Care QuizSister Struggles NewsletterFREE 30 min Coaching Callwww.sisterstruggles.comFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

It doesn’t feel great when someone judges you, does it?You can’t control how other people feel about you, but you can get a hold of how it affects you. That’s why this week I’m talking why people judge you and what it really means.Because a little secret? It’s not really about you, it’s about them.Tune in for new episodes every Sunday!Keep yourself accountable to your own needs + sign up for:Sister Struggles NewsletterFREE 30 min Coaching Callwww.sisterstruggles.comFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

This week on the podcast, I'm exploring the reasons why many of us wait until we’re drowning in our own problems before we ask for help. And why if you're a black woman, you might struggle with this even more than you know.  Hang with with me until the end for my take on JUDGE Ketanji brown Jackson's, Lizzo, and of course the SLAP everyone's talking about.Tune in for new episodes every Sunday!Mentions:Dropping Gems Podcast: Healing Black Bodies: @droppinggemspod; @devibrownSister Struggles NewsletterReach me on:+ IG: @@sisterstrugglesllc ; @sister_struggles_podcast+ Facebook group: Sister Struggles LLC+ www.sisterstruggles.comFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

This week on the podcast, I talk my take on the Kim + Kanye mess + how it's potentially triggering if you've been in a toxic relationship, why your values might have been really different growing up than they are now, and why that's exactly what you need to be leaning into, not away from!Tune in for new episodes every Sunday!Reach me on:+ IG: @@sisterstrugglesllc ; @sister_struggles_podcast+ Facebook group: Sister Struggles LLC+ www.sisterstruggles.comFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

Have you been avoiding a conversation with someone because it’s easier to please them + keep them happy? Are you trying to figure out when to finally end that toxic relationship? Are you waiting for the "right" time to move forward?This week, I talk  why always planning for the "right" time to take action is actually holding you back from progress.  And may even be keeping you in a cycle of burnout. Tune in for new episodes every Sunday!Reach me on:+ IG: @@sisterstrugglesllc ; @sister_struggles_podcast+ Facebook group: Sister Struggles LLC+ www.sisterstruggles.comFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

This week, it's Part 3 and the final part of my Build Your Boundaries mini-series. I'm talking Sha'Carri Richardson and why not communicating your needs is actually not doing anyone any favors.  Tune in for new episodes every Sunday! References from the episode:+ Naomi Osaka skincare line: @kinloskin+ Sha'Carri Richardson Teen Vogue Article & author: @sadegabriellaReach me on:+ IG: @@sisterstrugglesllc ; @sister_struggles_podcast+ Facebook group: Sister Struggles LLC+ www.sisterstruggles.comFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

This week, it's Part 2 of my Build Your Boundaries series. I'm breaking down the REAL reason why your boundaries create drama with others, and giving you the solution you need. Tune in for new episodes every Sunday! Reach me on:IG: @sisterstrugglesllc; @sister_struggles_podcastFacebook group: Sister Struggles LLCFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

On the podcast this week, I talk about why having a lack of boundaries and people-pleasing habits are linked, and how trusting yourself is one of the first steps to breaking those habits.So listen on how to create (and keep!) boundaries that work for you. Tune in for new episodes every Sunday! Reach me on:IG: @sisterstrugglesllc; @sister_struggles_podcastFacebook group: Sister Struggles LLCFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

On the podcast this week, I’m sharing ways I've learned to protect my energy BEFORE I burn out, instead of when I'm already in crisis-mode.Because you're no good to anybody, especially yourself, when you're running on fumes, sis. So listen to find out the simple ways you can take more intentional steps to protect your peace + prioritize your needs without feeling guilty.Tune in for new episodes every Sunday! Reach me on:IG: @sisterstrugglesllc; @sister_struggles_podcastFacebook group: Sister Struggles LLCHappy Black History Month!Black-owned small business shoutout! Get some dope candles from:@shop.cavo @thealexandrawinbush@shopmeltedwick@coolgirlthebrand(Content not sponsored)Follow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

On the podcast this week, I’m talking about acting and portraying being UNBOTHERED. There are definitely benefits to letting the bullshit slide, but I think culturally we may have taken it a bit too far.Because being unbothered also means not addressing your REAL feelings + emotions, and that doesn’t sound like self care to me!So listen to find out more about how being unbothered may be holding back your self care. Tune in for new episodes every Sunday! Reach me on:IG: @sisterstrugglesllc; @sister_struggles_podcastFacebook group: Sister Struggles LLCFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

It's the first episode, ladies! And I thought I'd start with my own story and what got me into the self care habits that created a life I want, instead of tolerate. Hear my experiences of dealing with toxic relationships, people-pleasing and MULTIPLE burnouts. Tune in for episodes every Sunday! Reach me on:IG: @sisterstrugglesllc; @sister_struggles_podcastFacebook group: Sister Struggles LLCFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]

“Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation." - Audre LordeFollow, rate and review with what you think!IG: @SisterStrugglesSelfCare ; @Sister_struggles._podcast TikTok: @SisterstrugglesSelfCareEmail me! [email protected]