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The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health
Brig Johnson
258 episodes
1 month ago
Welcome to ”The Black Woman’s Stress Solution,” the podcast for ambitious black women who are navigating the complexities of success while striving for balance and well-being in their lives. Brig Johnson, your host and go-to coach for stress management, brings you insights, strategies, tools and a little bit of neurobiology to master mindfulness, self-improvement, confidence, and personal growth. With Brig’s guidance, you’ll learn how to become unstuck and manage stress effectively while pursuing your goals and dreams to create your EPIC shit. Each week Brig dives deep into the world of self-care, mindset shifts, and empowerment strategies tailored specifically for Black women in business and leadership roles. With a focus on self-awareness, confidence-building, and goal-setting, this podcast provides the tools and guidance needed to navigate the challenges of work, health, relationships, and modern life with grace and resilience. Whether you’re an experienced women boss or just starting your journey of self-discovery, this podcast is your go-to resource for becoming the empowered, confident woman you were meant to be. Brig addresses common questions and challenges faced by high-achieving black women, offering practical advice and actionable steps to help you unlearn and unleash to live a more balanced and fulfilling life. Examples of these questions are: *How can Black women effectively manage stress while juggling multiple responsibilities? *What are some mindfulness techniques specifically tailored for Black women? *How can Black women develop a positive mindset in the face of challenges and setbacks? *What strategies can Black women employ to boost self-confidence and self-esteem? *How can Black women set achievable goals for personal and professional growth? *What are some practical self-care practices that Black women can incorporate into their daily routines? *How can Black women navigate imposter syndrome and overcome feelings of inadequacy? *What role does self-love play in stress management and personal empowerment for Black women? *How can Black women overcome barriers to seeking help and support for their mental health? *What are some effective techniques for boundary-setting and prioritizing self-care in a demanding work environment? *How can Black women cultivate resilience and bounce back from triggers stronger than before? *What resources are available for Black women seeking mentorship, coaching, or community support? *How can Black women leverage their unique experiences societal bullshit and perspectives to excel in their careers and personal lives? *What are some common misconceptions about stress management and self-improvement for Black women, and how can they be addressed? *How can Black women balance ambition and self-care to achieve sustainable success and fulfillment? * How can Black women become unstoppable and unf*ckwithable being their absolute best self…no matter what the situation—not allowing outside things to impact how they think and feel about themselves, what they do, or how they show up in the world? *Health and relationships and societal bullshit that create stress for black women *Why stress is the biggest block to your confidence, keeping you stuck. *Why is creating safety one of the first things we must address as black women? *Why is stress hindering the growth of our relationships? Subscribe to ”The Black Woman’s Stress Solution” today and embark on a journey of empowerment, resilience, and growth. Visit https://brigjohnson.com/ to learn more about Brig Johnson and her coaching services.
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All content for The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health is the property of Brig Johnson and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Welcome to ”The Black Woman’s Stress Solution,” the podcast for ambitious black women who are navigating the complexities of success while striving for balance and well-being in their lives. Brig Johnson, your host and go-to coach for stress management, brings you insights, strategies, tools and a little bit of neurobiology to master mindfulness, self-improvement, confidence, and personal growth. With Brig’s guidance, you’ll learn how to become unstuck and manage stress effectively while pursuing your goals and dreams to create your EPIC shit. Each week Brig dives deep into the world of self-care, mindset shifts, and empowerment strategies tailored specifically for Black women in business and leadership roles. With a focus on self-awareness, confidence-building, and goal-setting, this podcast provides the tools and guidance needed to navigate the challenges of work, health, relationships, and modern life with grace and resilience. Whether you’re an experienced women boss or just starting your journey of self-discovery, this podcast is your go-to resource for becoming the empowered, confident woman you were meant to be. Brig addresses common questions and challenges faced by high-achieving black women, offering practical advice and actionable steps to help you unlearn and unleash to live a more balanced and fulfilling life. Examples of these questions are: *How can Black women effectively manage stress while juggling multiple responsibilities? *What are some mindfulness techniques specifically tailored for Black women? *How can Black women develop a positive mindset in the face of challenges and setbacks? *What strategies can Black women employ to boost self-confidence and self-esteem? *How can Black women set achievable goals for personal and professional growth? *What are some practical self-care practices that Black women can incorporate into their daily routines? *How can Black women navigate imposter syndrome and overcome feelings of inadequacy? *What role does self-love play in stress management and personal empowerment for Black women? *How can Black women overcome barriers to seeking help and support for their mental health? *What are some effective techniques for boundary-setting and prioritizing self-care in a demanding work environment? *How can Black women cultivate resilience and bounce back from triggers stronger than before? *What resources are available for Black women seeking mentorship, coaching, or community support? *How can Black women leverage their unique experiences societal bullshit and perspectives to excel in their careers and personal lives? *What are some common misconceptions about stress management and self-improvement for Black women, and how can they be addressed? *How can Black women balance ambition and self-care to achieve sustainable success and fulfillment? * How can Black women become unstoppable and unf*ckwithable being their absolute best self…no matter what the situation—not allowing outside things to impact how they think and feel about themselves, what they do, or how they show up in the world? *Health and relationships and societal bullshit that create stress for black women *Why stress is the biggest block to your confidence, keeping you stuck. *Why is creating safety one of the first things we must address as black women? *Why is stress hindering the growth of our relationships? Subscribe to ”The Black Woman’s Stress Solution” today and embark on a journey of empowerment, resilience, and growth. Visit https://brigjohnson.com/ to learn more about Brig Johnson and her coaching services.
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Self-Improvement
Education,
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Mental Health
Episodes (20/258)
The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health
EP 248: Performance Partnership When It Ain't Really Partnership at All
Queen, let's talk about the elephant in the room: that exhausting dance you're doing in your relationship where you're solving his problems before he even names them, managing his emotions while yours get pushed aside, and wondering why love feels like a second job. If you're tired of performing for love instead of receiving it, this episode is your wake-up call. It's time to stop auditioning for partnership and start demanding the real thing. Because what society calls "devotion" is actually just patriarchy in a hoodie—and your nervous system is paying the price. What You'll Learn • Discover how "overfunctioning" elevates cortisol and creates adrenal fatigue in your body • Recognize performance partnership vs. true partnership—and why one is just patriarchy in disguise • Transform your understanding of safety: why regulating his emotions will never regulate yours • Notice how overfunctioning prevents your partner from developing emotional accountability • Shift from emotional babysitting to creating space for genuine co-regulation Why It Matters High-achieving Black women are conditioned to carry everyone's emotional weight—and it's literally breaking down our bodies. This pattern of self-abandonment doesn't just show up in romantic relationships; it's how we operate with bosses, children, and friends. Breaking free from performance partnership is about reclaiming your worth, your energy, and your right to be fully supported instead of always being the one doing the supporting. Take Action Take my free quiz to discover how your nervous system and survival patterns may be blocking your clarity: 👉🏾 brigjohnson.com/stress-quiz    RESOURCES Join my Newsletter, Unlearn and Unleash Share Your Takeaways With Me at brig@brigjohnson.com Stress Quiz 
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1 month ago
16 minutes

The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health
EP 247: GETTING OVER MR. UNDERCOVER PROJECT MAN-Why That ‘Perfect on Paper’ Man Was the Real Fixer-Upper—The Closure You Didn’t Get, The Healing You Deserve”
Queen, let's talk about the mindfuck breakup that's been keeping you stuck—the one with Mr. "Perfect on Paper" who left your soul starved despite checking every box society told you mattered. You know the type: well-dressed, well-traveled, well-paid, and wildly unavailable emotionally. This episode is your permission slip to finally name what you've been feeling and stop gaslighting yourself into believing something was wrong with you. It's time to get the closure you didn't get and claim the healing you absolutely deserve. Because when perfection masks a project, high-achieving Black women like you end up performing emotional triage instead of experiencing real partnership—and that ends today. What You'll Learn • Discover why your nervous system was screaming "something's off" even when everyone else thought you hit the jackpot. • Reclaim your reality by learning to identify "high presentation, low intimacy" men who look like prizes but function like emotional projects • Transform the cognitive dissonance that keeps you ruminating by naming the real problem: you weren't dating a high-value man, you were managing an undercover emotional fixer-upper. • Shift from self-blame to self-empowerment. • Notice how societal programming taught you to override your instincts and perform "low maintenance" just to keep the peace. • Repair what got damaged in the process: your trust in yourself, your joy, your hope, and your ability to love without shrinking.   This isn't just about one relationship—it's about breaking the cycle of self-abandonment that keeps high-achieving Black women trapped in situations that look good on paper but leave us emotionally starved. When you've been conditioned to prove your worthiness of love, your nervous system starts mistaking anxiety for attraction.    Take Action Take my free quiz to discover how your nervous system and survival patterns may be blocking your clarity: 👉🏾 brigjohnson.com/stress-quiz    RESOURCES Join my Newsletter, Unlearn and Unleash Share Your Takeaways With Me at brig@brigjohnson.com Stress Quiz 
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1 month ago
19 minutes

The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health
EP 246: He Ain’t Broke But He Still Needs Fixing When Your High-Value Man Is Actually a Project
Queen, let's talk about the confusion that nobody prepared you for: when your high-value man checks every box society told you mattered, but your nervous system is screaming that something ain't right. You're not crazy, and you're not asking for too much—you're just dealing with an emotional project disguised in designer suits and six-figure success. In this episode, I'm breaking down why status doesn't equal safety and how to stop carrying the invisible emotional load that's draining your peace. It's time to trust your instincts and reclaim your power. What You'll Learn Discover the five clear signs that your successful man is actually an emotional project in disguise Shift your understanding of what "high value" really means beyond bank accounts and status symbols Notice how cognitive dissonance shows up when someone looks like a catch but feels like chaos Reclaim your self-trust by understanding that asking for your needs wasn't "too much"—it was necessary Transform your approach to relationships by recognizing emotional availability as the true flex Why It Matters This conversation addresses what so many high-achieving black women experience but rarely discuss—the psychological confusion that leaves you questioning everything about yourself. We've been conditioned to endure instead of express, especially when society celebrates our "good man." Through mindset coaching and understanding neurobiology, I'm here to empower you to stop diminishing yourself and break free from self-abandonment patterns. Your peace isn't negotiable. Take Action Take my free quiz to discover how your nervous system and survival patterns may be blocking your clarity: 👉🏾 brigjohnson.com/stress-quiz    RESOURCES Join my Newsletter, Unlearn and Unleash Share Your Takeaways With Me at brig@brigjohnson.com Stress Quiz 
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2 months ago
28 minutes

The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health
EP 245: LOVE WITHOUT CHAINS - 5 REASONS TO DE-CENTER MEN WITHOUT DISMISSING THEM
Hey, it’s Brig! In this episode, I’m diving into de-centering men without dismissing them. This isn’t about being anti-men but becoming "pro-you." I unpack the stress women carry when our worth is tied to relationships with men, and how we can reclaim sovereignty.  What You'll Learn: Historical Conditioning: How laws and culture, like credit restrictions until 1974, mandated centering men. Everyday Conditioning: How childhood, church, media, and dating advice push us to prioritize men. Reasons to De-Center: I share five powerful reasons to de-center men: your worth is inherent, not tied to a man; centering men causes health-damaging stress, especially for Black women; prioritizing men isn’t true connection if it erases you; de-centering lets men be whole, fostering healing; and it means choosing love from truth, not panic. Remember that de-centering isn’t about rejecting love but reclaiming your power to choose it freely. Let’s build a life where love is a choice, not a chain, and step into true sovereignty together. Take Action Take my free quiz to discover how your nervous system and survival patterns may be blocking your clarity: 👉🏾 brigjohnson.com/stress-quiz    RESOURCES Join my Newsletter, Unlearn and Unleash Share Your Takeaways With Me at brig@brigjohnson.com Stress Quiz   
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2 months ago
25 minutes

The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health
EP 244: From Stuck to Sovereign How CJ UNKAGED™ Her Next Chapter
In this powerful episode, I sit down with a special guest, CJ, who recently completed the UNKAGED™ six-month coaching program. CJ shares her transformative journey from feeling unsafe and overwhelmed in her high-powered career to reclaiming her sovereignty and creating space for her passions. What You'll Learn: How feeling "unsafe" in professional spaces is a common experience for Black women that drains our capacity Why the "strong Black woman" trope and self-sacrifice mindset limits our potential The power of validating your own thoughts and feelings with "this makes sense" instead of questioning yourself How to create more capacity by reducing stress and emotional labor The difference between culturally-rooted coaching and traditional coaching approaches Why recovery is essential for high-achieving Black women I’m so grateful to CJ for sharing her story and insights with us. Her journey is a powerful reminder that we don’t have to settle for survival mode—we can choose recovery, reclaim our capacity, and live life on our own terms. Take Action Take my free quiz to discover how your nervous system and survival patterns may be blocking your clarity: 👉🏾 brigjohnson.com/stress-quiz    RESOURCES Join my Newsletter, Unlearn and Unleash Share Your Takeaways With Me at brig@brigjohnson.com Stress Quiz 
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2 months ago
36 minutes 21 seconds

The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health
EP 243: 5 Signs You’re Abandoning Yourself Without Realizing It
Today, I'm talking about a pattern that's silently robbing high-achieving Black women of money, joy, and energy: self-abandonment.  What is Self-Abandonment? Self-abandonment happens when you leave yourself emotionally, mentally, or physically to secure someone else's comfort, approval, or validation. It's when you side with others over yourself. We do this because somewhere along the line, we learned being fully ourselves wasn't safe. For Black women, this is compounded by generations of being told our bodies, voices, and desires needed to be managed to avoid backlash. 5 Signs You're Abandoning Yourself: You override your "no" - Agreeing to things that make you dread your calendar You need a "good reason" to rest - Otherwise, you feel guilty You shrink your joy - Speaking less, dimming your shine, or even stopping yourself from laughing You defer your decisions - Letting others decide for you, even on things that deeply impact you You gaslight yourself - Downplaying your needs or telling yourself you're overreacting The Cost Is Too High Studies show: The APA found that suppressing authentic self-expression is linked to higher cortisol and inflammation levels Harvard Business Review reports Black women face the steepest emotional tax in professional settings, leading to earlier burnout Chronic self-abandonment is associated with higher rates of depression, anxiety, and stress-related illness For high earners, this shows up as: Emotional: Loss of self-trust, chronic resentment, burnout Physical: Sleep disruption, weight fluctuations, immune issues, hypertension Relationship: Surface-level connections, resentment in partnerships The Path Forward Ask yourself: "What would I choose if I didn't need anyone's approval?"   Take Action Take my free quiz to discover how your nervous system and survival patterns may be blocking your clarity: 👉🏾 brigjohnson.com/stress-quiz    RESOURCES Join my Newsletter, Unlearn and Unleash Join the Next Breakthrough Master Class here Register for the Next Melanin Hour here Book a Breakthrough Call here Share Your Takeaways With Me at brig@brigjohnson.com Stress Quiz   
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2 months ago
14 minutes 44 seconds

The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health
EP: 242 Internalized Wrongness – When You Mistake Your Identity for a Flaw
Have you ever caught yourself thinking, “Something about me is just… wrong”? In this episode, I’m getting real about internalized wrongness — that quiet, exhausting belief that your identity is a defect to fix instead of something to celebrate. I’ve lived this, and I know how sneaky it is. From code-switching until you don’t recognize your own voice, to chasing every receipt and title just to feel “enough,” it’s a cycle that drains your energy, creativity, and self-trust. We’ll talk about how this shows up in our daily lives, why overachieving can be a mask for internalized wrongness, and the exact process I use to help Black women reset their nervous systems so authenticity feels safe again. I’ll share a client story, practical steps you can start today, and the one truth that changes everything: you were never the problem — you are the blueprint. What you’ll learn in this episode: How to recognize the signs of internalized wrongness Why over-preparing and over-performing never bring self-trust The “safety scripts” that keep you editing yourself to fit in Small, low-risk experiments to prove to your body it’s safe to be you How to start stacking evidence for your worth and identity If you’ve been shrinking, editing, or collecting receipts just to feel worthy, it’s time to reset. Take Action Take my free quiz to discover how your nervous system and survival patterns may be blocking your clarity: 👉🏾 brigjohnson.com/stress-quiz RESOURCES Join my Newsletter, Unlearn and Unleash Join the Next Breakthrough Master Class here Register for the Next Melanin Hour here Book a Breakthrough Call here Share Your Takeaways With Me at brig@brigjohnson.com Stress Quiz  keywords: internalized wrongness, self-trust for Black women, authenticity and nervous system, identity and self-worth, overcoming self-doubt, black women empowerment, authenticity coaching, nervous system reset, abandoning yourself for approval, self-safety practices, stop code switching, how to be your authentic self, allostatic load and stress, signs of identity suppression, Black women leadership mindset, building self-trust, cultural and historical stress, women’s empowerment podcast, emotional safety and authenticity, breaking free from people-pleasing
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3 months ago
19 minutes 16 seconds

The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health
EP 241: Cognitive Violence How Mindset Work Became Another Way to Shame Black Women
Why I Had to Name This I created this episode because I’ve seen too many high-achieving Black and Brown women—myself included—blame ourselves for the very thoughts that helped us survive. We’ve been told to “think better,” “stay positive,” or “change our mindset,” without anyone asking where those thoughts came from or what they were protecting us from. That’s not healing. That’s cognitive violence—and we need to name it to reclaim our power. What This Episode is Really About In this episode, I introduce the term “cognitive violence”—a pattern I’ve witnessed in coaching spaces where mindset work is used to shame rather than support. I break down how thought-shaming can happen subtly, especially in coaching rooted in privileged perspectives that ignore systemic oppression and generational trauma. We explore: Why mindset “reframing” often skips over critical context for Black and Brown women. How survival-based thoughts are not mindset blocks—they’re protection mechanisms. What it means when your biology operates on rules written by oppression (what I call colonized biology). Real-life examples of cognitive violence in action, and how to stop committing it against yourself. The difference between changing your thoughts and feeling safe enough to believe them. The importance of decoding your survival scripts before trying to rewrite them. This conversation is a call to stop labeling our trauma responses as flaws—and start seeing them as wisdom. 🔥 Your Call to Action Pattern break time → Ask yourself or a trusted friend: What’s a thought I’ve been shaming myself for having? When did I first learn it, and who taught me? What was that thought trying to protect me from? Then write it down. Speak it aloud. Witness it. And if you’re ready to go deeper—take the free Stress Survival Style Quiz to start decoding your own survival patterns. Take Action Take my free quiz to discover how your nervous system and survival patterns may be blocking your clarity: 👉🏾 brigjohnson.com/stress-quiz RESOURCES Join my Newsletter, Unlearn and Unleash Join the Next Breakthrough Master Class here Register for the Next Melanin Hour here Book a Breakthrough Call here Share Your Takeaways With Me at brig@brigjohnson.com Stress Quiz  KEYWORDS: mindset coaching, trauma-informed coaching, Black women healing, cognitive violence, mindset work, colonized biology, nervous system regulation, emotional safety, survival thoughts, generational trauma, uncoached coaching, thought shaming, inner command center, stress survival style, self-sabotage, coaching for Black women
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3 months ago
29 minutes 11 seconds

The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health
EP 240: The Math Ain’t Mathing - With Guest Anita Miller
Hey y’all, it’s Brig. This one is personal. Equal Pay Day just passed—and it’s not a celebration, it’s a correction. A reminder that Black and Brown women are still months behind in earnings, every single year. This episode is for every woman who’s been grinding, staying late, over-preparing, and still being undervalued. I brought in the powerhouse Anita Miller to help us go deeper—not just into the numbers, but into the language of worth. We’re not just talking about the wage gap. We’re dismantling the silence that keeps us underpaid. In this episode, we unpack: Why Equal Pay Day isn’t a holiday—it’s a reality check The disturbing math behind racial and gender pay gaps How communication—not credentials—is often the barrier The Power Language Method and why it’s a game changer The hidden ways we shrink in negotiation and leadership Why AI could widen the gap even further—and how to prepare How to move from “doing more” to strategic influence Why internal safety is a leadership skill (and yes, it’s contagious) Anita doesn’t hold back—and neither do I. If you’ve ever felt overlooked, underpaid, or unsure how to advocate for yourself, this episode is a must-listen. 🎧 Ready to evolve and command your worth? Press play. Then share it with a friend who needs to hear it too. About Anita: Anita R. Miller, MBA, PMP is a power strategist who discovered why qualified professional Black women stay stuck despite their credentials—and created the only system that fixes it. After 20+ years in corporate leadership spanning risk management, project management, and supply chain, Anita identified The Leadership Language Divide™: the gap in access to language of leadership and the price paid when you don't know it. While other experts focus on confidence and visibility, Anita saw that the real barrier was language—professional women were speaking like employees when they needed to sound like executives. Through Power Speaks Your Name™, Anita teaches The Leadership Language Trifecta™ that closes this divide. Her system shows women how to stop speaking like they work there and start speaking like they run it—especially crucial as AI increasingly analyzes workplace communication patterns. With 750+ professional women transformed through her frameworks, Anita's pattern recognition abilities allow her to see workplace shifts and corporate failures before they become obvious. Her mission is clear: teach professional women the language that positions them as decision-makers, not just high performers—so they control resources, shape strategy, and change systems from positions of power. As a sought-after speaker and thought leader, Anita challenges conventional wisdom about women's advancement. She believes the time for hoping qualifications will speak for themselves is over—now women must learn to speak with the authority their expertise deserves. Connect with Anita: Website: https://powerspeaksyourname.com/  Podcast: https://powerspeaksyourname.com/podcast/   Take Action Take my free quiz to discover how your nervous system and survival patterns may be blocking your clarity: 👉🏾 brigjohnson.com/stress-quiz   RESOURCES: Join my Newsletter, Unlearn and Unleash Join the Next Breakthrough Master Class here Register for the Next Melanin Hour here Book a Breakthrough Call here Share Your Takeaways With Me at brig@brigjohnson.com  Join my Newsletter, Unlearn and Unleash Join the Next Breakthrough Master Class here Register for the Next Melanin Hour here Book a Breakthrough Call here Share Your Takeaways With Me at brig@brigjohnson.com Stress Quiz  Keywords: equal pay day, pay gap 2025, racial wage gap, gender pay inequality, women of color pay gap, anita miller power language, brig johnson podcast, black women and equal pay, salary negotiation for women, how to ask for a raise, communication and leadership, strategic communication in the workplace, language and career advancement, dei rollback 2025, power lan
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3 months ago
47 minutes 37 seconds

The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health
EP 239 – When Your YAS Is Buried Under Their Opinions
This episode helps you reclaim your inner YES and stop outsourcing your clarity through a 5-step soul sorting process.
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3 months ago
27 minutes 30 seconds

The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health
EP 238 When All They See Is Who You Used to Be (But You’re Not That Gurl No More)
I recorded this episode on the 4th of July, a day that symbolizes freedom — but for many of us, true freedom starts when we stop shrinking to make others comfortable. Last week, we talked about the invisible ways we try to stay lovable by making ourselves small. This week, I want to speak to the sting of being seen as your old self — even after you’ve done the inner work. You’ve changed. But what happens when the people closest to you don’t see it... What you’ll hear in this episode: Why it’s painful when your growth isn’t acknowledged What “shrink scripts” are and how they’ve shaped you The grief of being seen as your past self — and how to name it Reframes and mindset shifts to stay rooted in your progress Tools to protect your expansion Why your nervous system isn’t sabotaging you — it’s trying to protect you How to stop outsourcing your validation and declare your evolution Your next step: Close your eyes, hand on your chest, and repeat:“I’ve changed. I’m still changing. And I don’t need permission to keep evolving.” Then ask yourself:What’s one truth I’m ready to stand in — even if no one claps yet? RESOURCES: Join my Newsletter, Unlearn and Unleash Join the Next Breakthrough Master Class here Register for the Next Melanin Hour here Book a Breakthrough Call here Share Your Takeaways With Me at brig@brigjohnson.com Take the Stress Quiz   Stay Connected Instagram → @brigjohnsoncoaching Facebook → Brig Johnson Coaching Website → www.brigjohnson.com
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4 months ago
20 minutes 27 seconds

The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health
EP 237 Are You Stuck Playing Small to Stay Loved?
Hey y’all—Brig here. Today I’m bringing you a topic that might hit close to home: playing small just to stay loved. Whether it’s at work, in relationships, or even around family, too many of us shrink ourselves to make others feel more comfortable. I’ve been there. I know what it’s like to silence your voice, tone yourself down, and wear outdated roles just to keep the peace. But that strategy? It’s costing you more than you realize. In this episode, I’m not here to shame you—I’m here to bring awareness. To name the cages. To help you identify the "shrink scripts" you’ve inherited from well-meaning people who didn’t know any better. I’ll show you how to unkage your voice, your body, your mind, and your entire life. Because surviving isn’t the same as living—and queen, it’s time to live unkaged. What We’ll Dive Into in This Episode: Why conditional love is often disguised as safety The emotional cost of shrinking yourself in friendships, at work, and at home The invisible work no one sees—but that’s changing you daily “Shrink scripts” from family, culture, and your own past—and how to rewrite them The difference between surviving and thriving A powerful voice note exercise to reconnect with your growth Take Action – Your Uncaging Starts Now Ask yourself: Where are you still playing small to be loved?   RESOURCES: Join my Newsletter, Unlearn and Unleash Join the Next Breakthrough Master Class here Register for the Next Melanin Hour here Book a Breakthrough Call here Share Your Takeaways With Me at brig@brigjohnson.com Take the Stress Quiz   Stay Connected Instagram → @brigjohnsoncoaching Facebook → Brig Johnson Coaching Website → www.brigjohnson.com
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4 months ago
23 minutes 45 seconds

The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health
EP 236 What HYROX Taught Us About Power, Pain, and Pushing Through
This episode isn’t just about fitness—it’s about redefining what’s possible. HYROX challenged me in ways I never expected. It wasn’t just about the workouts or the competition—it was about pushing through pain, breaking mental barriers, and proving that power doesn’t have an expiration date. I’m joined by my training partner Cynthia and our incredible coach, Coach O, to share the real journey: the highs, the hard days, and everything it took to reclaim strength, confidence, and joy in our bodies after 60. What This Episode Is About In this episode, we dive into: 🏋🏾‍♀️ What HYROX is and why it became more than a fitness goal for us The power of reclaiming your body and identity through strength training What training after 60 looks like—mentally, physically, and emotionally The unexpected healing, sisterhood, and self-trust built along the way The moment we came in last—and why it still felt like a win Why building strength is essential, not optional, at this stage of life You’ll hear real talk about cramps, doubts, breakthroughs, and post-race high fives. It’s honest, inspiring, and proof that “too late” is a myth we’re done believing. If this episode sparked something in you, share it with a friend who needs to be reminded that her strongest years might still be ahead. ✨ And if you haven’t already, take my free quiz    Train with Coach O: https://www.instagram.com/corinthian.fit Follow Cynthia: https://www.instagram.com/campy1130 More Episodes: brigjohnson.com/podcast   RESOURCES: Join my Newsletter, Unlearn and Unleash Join the Next Breakthrough Master Class here Register for the Next Melanin Hour here Book a Breakthrough Call here Share Your Takeaways With Me at brig@brigjohnson.com
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4 months ago
46 minutes

The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health
EP 235 RETURN TO SELF: The Race That Reminded Me—This Ain’t the End. It’s the Becoming.
What if the moment you thought signaled the end… was really the beginning?In this episode, I share what the "Old Lady Division" taught me about purpose, identity, and the quiet power of coming back to yourself—stronger, clearer, and more grounded than ever. This isn’t about reinvention. It’s about returning to the version of you that always knew. You’ll learn: Why turning 60 brought unexpected emotional challenges How I trained for a global fitness competition after setbacks The quiet ways women start to feel invisible — and how to shift it Why purpose doesn’t need perfection — it needs action What it means to return to yourself instead of reinventing How to identify your new non-negotiables A practical question to ask yourself today: What have I shelved that I’m ready to reclaim? Ready to uncover the stress patterns keeping you stuck — and start building a life that fits who you are now? Stress Quiz HERE   RESOURCES: Join my Newsletter, Unlearn and Unleash Book a Breakthrough Call here Share Your Takeaways With Me at brig@brigjohnson.com 
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4 months ago
17 minutes 37 seconds

The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health
EP 234 What the K in UNKAGED Really Means
This week, I’m pulling back the curtain on why I spell Unkaged with a “K.”Spoiler alert: it’s not just branding—it’s a sacred declaration.We’re diving into what it means to know yourself so fully that no one can gaslight, shrink, or silence you again.This episode is for every Black woman who’s ever felt like she had to perform, conform, or stay quiet to stay safe. That stops here.   You’ll learn:→ Why deep knowing is the foundation of recovery→ How community creates safety and amplifies growth→ What Kinesthetic Wisdom means—and how your body always knows before your brain does→ How to start trusting yourself again, without waiting for permission   💫 Then take a moment to breathe before you perform.That’s where the revolution begins.   RESOURCES: Join my Newsletter, Unlearn and Unleash Book a Breakthrough Call here Share Your Takeaways With Me at brig@brigjohnson.com  Stress Quiz  
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5 months ago
20 minutes 47 seconds

The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health
EP 233 I Burned My Coaching Offers Down—Here’s Why The UNKAGEDTM Revolution Begins Here.
High-achieving Black women aren’t stuck because we’re doing it wrong—we’re stuck because we’ve been conditioned to survive, not to thrive. In this episode, I get real about why I burned down all my coaching offers. I share the moment that changed everything, what I discovered underneath all the mindset work, and why I’m no longer coaching around the edges of the wound. What we often call procrastination, self-sabotage, or burnout?It’s not a personal flaw.It’s your nervous system doing what it was built to do: protect you. When I finally gave myself permission to stop performing and start feeling safe, I unlocked a deeper capacity—to rest without guilt, to dream without fear, and to stop abandoning myself just to be accepted. This is what the UNKAGED Revolution is all about:Helping high-performing women like us recalibrate our nervous systems, reclaim our voice, and rise from survival into sovereignty. If you’re tired of shrinking, proving, or managing stress with hacks that don’t heal—this episode is for you. You don’t need more discipline.You don’t need to fix yourself.You need safety.You need softness.You need a nervous system that finally feels free. The revolution begins with you.   RESOURCES Join my Newsletter: Unlearn and Unleash Save your spot in the Next Breakthrough Master Class Register for the Next Melanin Hour Book a 1:1 Breakthrough Call Stress Quiz  ✉️ Want to share your thoughts or breakthroughs? Write me at brig@brigjohnson.com STAY CONNECTED — Website | Instagram | Facebook
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5 months ago
29 minutes 17 seconds

The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health
EP 232 Redefining Recovery: The Radical Self-Care Black Women Deserve
We’ve been taught to push through. To hold it all. To never drop the ball.But what if the reason we feel like we’re breaking… is because no one ever taught us to recover? In this episode, I’m finally unpacking the radical concept that changed my life: 💥 Recovery is not rest. It’s reclamation. Reclaiming your time.Your energy.Your breath.Your baseline.   We dive deep into why recovery is the missing skill set for high-achieving Black and Brown women—and how without it, we’re stuck in cycles of burnout, overperformance, and silence.   You’re not broken.You’re under-recovered.Let’s change that.   🎧 Tap the link in bio to listen. 💫 Then take a moment to breathe before you perform.That’s where the revolution begins.     STAY CONNECTED 🌐 Website📸 Instagram📘 Facebook
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5 months ago
27 minutes 50 seconds

The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health
EP 231 Which KAGE Are You Living In? (The 4 Stress Archetypes + Quiz Reveal)
A lot of many high-achieving women are stuck in cycles that feel personal—but are actually patterns of survival. Overgiving, overworking, staying quiet, or doing it all alone… these aren’t just habits. They’re adaptations. In this episode, I finally introduce something I’ve been working on for a while: the Uncaged Stress Impact Assessment—a powerful quiz to help you uncover which stress archetype has been running your life.   I walk you through the 4 KAGE types: The Fixer The Overachiever The Self-Silencer The Soloist These aren’t personality traits. They’re survival patterns rooted in stress. And when we name them, we begin to reclaim ourselves. I created this because I needed it myself—and I know you do too. Because you’re not broken. You’ve just been adapting. And now it’s time to break the cage.   🔍 What This Episode Covers: What the 4 KAGE stress archetypes are and how they form Why naming your pattern is the first step toward healing How stress hijacks your nervous system and rewires your behavior Why rest isn’t a reward—it’s your right How to take the quiz and start your recovery journey A journaling prompt to notice your cage in motion this week   💥 Ready to Break the Cage? Take the Uncaged Stress Impact Assessment to discover your dominant stress archetype and listen to the exclusive private podcast episode that goes with your result. Tag me on IG after you take the quiz—I want to hear what showed up for you. And don’t forget: the work doesn’t stop with awareness. If you're ready to recover, not just cope, my 1:1 coaching is where the deep transformation happens.   RESOURCES 👉 Take the Uncaged Stress Impact Assessment 💌 Join my Newsletter: Unlearn and Unleash 🎙 Register for the Next Melanin Hour 📅 Book a 1:1 Breakthrough Call 💭 Want to share your thoughts or breakthroughs? Email me at brig@brigjohnson.com   STAY CONNECTED 🌐 Website📸 Instagram📘 Facebook
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5 months ago
13 minutes 48 seconds

The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health
EP 230 It's NOT Sabatoge It's your Nervous System
Too many times, I see high-achieving women of color stuck in cycles of overgiving, over-performing, and people-pleasing—not because we’re broken, but because we’re in survival mode. In this episode, I get personal. I share what cracked open for me, why I broke down on mic, and how that moment brought radical clarity: what we call self-sabotage is often just our nervous system doing its job. When I learned to feel safe in my body, I unlocked a deeper freedom—to dream boldly, to rest without guilt, to stop proving, and to finally trust myself again. This is the core of what I teach inside the UNKAGED Revolution: helping women like us reset our nervous systems, reclaim our identities, and step fully into our power. If you’re ready to stop performing peace and start living it, this episode is your invitation. You don’t have to sacrifice your peace, your rest, or your joy to earn love or success.You don’t need another planner or productivity hack.What you might need is recovery, safety, and nervous system support. That’s what I offer inside my 1:1 coaching. It’s time to stop blaming yourself—and start reclaiming your capacity. RESOURCES Join my Newsletter: Unlearn and Unleash Save your spot in the Next Breakthrough Master Class Register for the Next Melanin Hour Book a 1:1 Breakthrough Call ✉️ Want to share your thoughts or breakthroughs? Write me at brig@brigjohnson.com STAY CONNECTED — Website | Instagram | Facebook
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6 months ago
35 minutes 8 seconds

The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health
EP. 229 I Cried While Recording This: A Call to the UNKAGED™ Revolution
Too many high-achieving women of color are stuck in cycles of over giving, over performing, and people-pleasing—not because they're broken, but because they're surviving. In this compelling episode, Brig uncovers how these patterns are rooted in history and trauma, not personal failure, and makes the case for a radical shift: nervous system recalibration. When you learn to feel safe in your body and life, you unlock the freedom to dream boldly, love deeply, and prioritize your well-being—without guilt. This is the heart of the UNKAGED™ Revolution: a movement to help women of color reclaim their identity, reset their nervous systems, and step fully into their power. If you’re ready to protect your peace, live unapologetically, and start your healing journey—this episode is your invitation.  📣 You don’t have to sacrifice your dreams or your happiness for your relationships. Let’s work together to create fulfilling connections that uplift and empower you. Our Impact One-On-One Coaching offers personalized guidance to help you fully embrace the Freedom Formula. It's time to opt out of their formulas and into your power.   RESOURCES  — Join my Newsletter, Unlearn and Unleash Join the Next Breakthrough Master Class here  Register for the Next Melanin Hour here  Book a Breakthrough Call here Share Your Takeaways With Me at brig@brigjohnson.com    STAY CONNECTED — Website | Instagram | Facebook
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6 months ago
20 minutes 13 seconds

The Black Woman’s Stress Solution Podcast: discover the connection between Black women’s stress in work, love, and health
Welcome to ”The Black Woman’s Stress Solution,” the podcast for ambitious black women who are navigating the complexities of success while striving for balance and well-being in their lives. Brig Johnson, your host and go-to coach for stress management, brings you insights, strategies, tools and a little bit of neurobiology to master mindfulness, self-improvement, confidence, and personal growth. With Brig’s guidance, you’ll learn how to become unstuck and manage stress effectively while pursuing your goals and dreams to create your EPIC shit. Each week Brig dives deep into the world of self-care, mindset shifts, and empowerment strategies tailored specifically for Black women in business and leadership roles. With a focus on self-awareness, confidence-building, and goal-setting, this podcast provides the tools and guidance needed to navigate the challenges of work, health, relationships, and modern life with grace and resilience. Whether you’re an experienced women boss or just starting your journey of self-discovery, this podcast is your go-to resource for becoming the empowered, confident woman you were meant to be. Brig addresses common questions and challenges faced by high-achieving black women, offering practical advice and actionable steps to help you unlearn and unleash to live a more balanced and fulfilling life. Examples of these questions are: *How can Black women effectively manage stress while juggling multiple responsibilities? *What are some mindfulness techniques specifically tailored for Black women? *How can Black women develop a positive mindset in the face of challenges and setbacks? *What strategies can Black women employ to boost self-confidence and self-esteem? *How can Black women set achievable goals for personal and professional growth? *What are some practical self-care practices that Black women can incorporate into their daily routines? *How can Black women navigate imposter syndrome and overcome feelings of inadequacy? *What role does self-love play in stress management and personal empowerment for Black women? *How can Black women overcome barriers to seeking help and support for their mental health? *What are some effective techniques for boundary-setting and prioritizing self-care in a demanding work environment? *How can Black women cultivate resilience and bounce back from triggers stronger than before? *What resources are available for Black women seeking mentorship, coaching, or community support? *How can Black women leverage their unique experiences societal bullshit and perspectives to excel in their careers and personal lives? *What are some common misconceptions about stress management and self-improvement for Black women, and how can they be addressed? *How can Black women balance ambition and self-care to achieve sustainable success and fulfillment? * How can Black women become unstoppable and unf*ckwithable being their absolute best self…no matter what the situation—not allowing outside things to impact how they think and feel about themselves, what they do, or how they show up in the world? *Health and relationships and societal bullshit that create stress for black women *Why stress is the biggest block to your confidence, keeping you stuck. *Why is creating safety one of the first things we must address as black women? *Why is stress hindering the growth of our relationships? Subscribe to ”The Black Woman’s Stress Solution” today and embark on a journey of empowerment, resilience, and growth. Visit https://brigjohnson.com/ to learn more about Brig Johnson and her coaching services.