In today's episode of *Hold My Heels: The Power of Unapologetic Living*, we dive into the history of Black feminism, tracing its roots through the four waves of feminism. We’ll explore how each wave, from the 1848 Seneca Falls Convention to the modern #MeToo movement, often marginalized or excluded Black women. I’ll also highlight key figures like Sojourner Truth and Ida B. Wells, who stood against this exclusion, and discuss how Black feminism emerged as a distinct and necessary force in response. Join me as we unpack the evolution of feminist thought and the ongoing struggle for true inclusivity.

I'm back.....In this episode, we explore how Black women manage emotional trauma while still showing up in relationships and spaces. We'll dive into the Superwoman Schema and the “Black Wife Effect” trend, discussing how we often uplift others at our own expense. Join me as we navigate these complex dynamics! Also, the podcast will be moving to airing new episodes on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month!! See you there!!

In this episode, I have a little fun sharing my adventures as a poetry slam contestant. I share my belt-wining poem, "And I Am" and my title defending poem, "Look at Me." If you'd like to hear more, join me in Denver during ISTE.

In Episode 3 of our four-part series on allyship, we delve into the role of disruptive allies in the fight against systemic racism. Learn how to move beyond passive support to active engagement, using your privilege to challenge and dismantle oppressive structures. We explore the distinctions between allies and accomplices, and share ideas surrounding creating brave spaces, participating in direct action, and amplifying marginalized voices.

In today's episode, I dive into the complexities of allyship, sharing personal reflections and experiences. We start with a recent social media debate about whether women would rather face a bear or a man, highlighting deep-seated fears and the added challenges for Black women. I discuss why marginalized groups might prefer certain allies in professional settings and emphasize the need for true support among women. Drawing on Dr. Tiffany Jana's work, I explore how allyship should evolve from learning to active advocacy. I also share my own experiences with allyship's pitfalls, like performative actions and role confusion. This episode is a call to action for allies to move beyond superficial support, embracing compassion, humility, and dedication to foster real change.

We’re diving into the often-overlooked lack of true care and concern for marginalized people in workplaces. Join me as I unpack the definitions of care and concern, revealing how performative allyship perpetuates systemic racism. Through research, real-life examples, and expert insights, we highlight the urgent need for genuine support and actionable change. Don’t miss this powerful discussion on moving beyond superficial gestures to create real, lasting impact for marginalized communities. Let’s work together to dismantle systemic oppression and build a more equitable world!

Join me in the gripping finale of our 5 part series, where we dissect the damaging Jezebel stereotype and its profound impact on Black women. Throughout this episode, we explore how rap dramas exploit Black women’s bodies and the enduring harm of these stereotypes. Dr. AJAX delves into the racist and sexist roots of the Jezebel image, tracing its origins back to colonial ideologies that painted Black women as racially inferior and sexually exotic. The discussion also covers personal anecdotes from Dr. AJAX, illustrating their struggles with false accusations and professional barriers due to these stereotypes. In a powerful closing, the podcast underscores the importance of healing and empowerment through therapy, celebrating the resilience and elegance of Black women as they combat these pervasive threats. Join us for an enlightening dialogue on breaking free from historical chains and paving the way for a future filled with respect and understanding.

"Get Off My Teet" dives into the enduring Mammy stereotype and its effects on African-American women today. This podcast explores the historical roots of this caricature during slavery, its propagation through media, and the societal expectations it has forged. By examining how the Mammy image has justified racial hierarchies and affected the identities of Black women in various sectors including academia, listeners gain insight into the subtle yet profound ways these stereotypes continue to influence perceptions and realities. Join us for a critical reflection on race, media, and the challenging path towards true representation and equity.