Body Politics: Reclaiming the Black Body with Alishia McCullough

In this powerful and timely episode, we sit down with Alishia McCullough, author of ‘Reclaiming the Black Body,’ for a profound discussion on collective trauma, body autonomy, and the intersection of political climate with personal wellbeing. Alishia shares deep insights into how recent political events have impacted the mental and physical health of marginalized communities, while exploring the crucial role of language in addressing these experiences. From the complexities of eating imbalances to the significance of indigenous healing practices, this conversation delves into how cultural disconnection specifically affects Black women’s relationship with their bodies. 

Guest Spotlight: Alishia McCullough (she/her) is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Therapist and Founder of Black and Embodied Consulting PLLC, specializing in somatic therapy, trauma healing, and eating disorder treatment. As co-founder of the #AmplifyMelanatedVoices Movement in 2020, she works to elevate BIPOC voices globally. She leads the Reimagining Eating Disorders 101 course and The Integrated Woman Mastermind program. An accomplished author, Alishia wrote the poetry collection “Blossoming” and the forthcoming book “Reclaiming The Black Body” (2024). Her work centers on intersectional narratives and body justice for marginalized communities, particularly QTPOC individuals. Featured in Meta’s 2022 Well-Being Collective, her expertise has been highlighted on NPR, STAT, Essence, and Forbes.

Episode Takeaways:

• Collective trauma manifests both emotionally and physically in our bodies
• Language choices significantly impact how we process and heal from trauma
• Cultural disconnection plays a key role in eating imbalances among Black women
• Safe spaces and accessibility are essential for meaningful healing
• Political events directly affect mental health and body relationships
• Indigenous practices offer valuable paths to body reconnection
• Community healing starts with individual self-care and body autonomy

Relevant links:

Buy Reclaiming the Black Body here!

Connect with Alishia on Instagram and visit her website!

Connect with me on socials- join the Be Well,Sis tribe on Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube!

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Be Well Sis is hosted by Dr Cassandre Dunbar. The show is edited, mixed and produced by Megan Hayward and Reem Elmaghraby. Our Production Manager is Kathleen Speckert.

Be Well Sis is an editaudio collaboration.

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