Support for Black women isn’t just a concept—it’s a necessity, especially for those of us who feel like the weight of the world is always on our shoulders.

So, let’s talk about the kind of support for Black women that uplifts —the kind you actually need, not the kind that leaves you feeling drained, unseen, and unheard. In this episode of Shades of Strong, we’re diving deep into why the help you’ve been getting isn’t landing and how you can start asking for support that truly serves you.

As Black women, we’ve been conditioned to carry the weight of the world, holding it all together while quietly struggling under the pressure. But that narrative stops here. This week, I’m introducing you to Support Languages™, a culturally relevant framework designed to help you name your unique support needs.

Tune in to learn:

Why surface-level support feels so unfulfilling.

How to identify your Support Language™ and what it reveals about how you receive care.

Practical steps to stop settling for less and start getting the help you deserve.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re carrying it all alone, this episode is for you.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

The emotional toll of hyper-independence on Black women.

How Support Languages™ can help you communicate your needs effectively.

The transformational power of knowing what kind of support actually works for you.

Why This Episode Matters:

For too long, Black women have been the backbone of their families and communities, expected to give endlessly without asking for anything in return. This episode shines a light on the invisible burdens we carry and offers a pathway to reclaiming support that feels like care, not obligation.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Take the Support Language™ Quiz.

Follow Shades of Strong on Instagram for daily inspiration.

www.shadesofstrong.com

Shirl is the creator of Support Languages™ and host of Shades of Strong® — a movement shifting the narrative from Strong Black Woman to Supported Black Woman™ through language, rest, and real support.