In this powerful episode, Kelley is joined by Daria Burke for a truth-filled, liberating conversation about breaking up with performative ambition and reclaiming what success feels like, rather than how it looks. Together, they explore how Black women can move beyond hustle culture, make room for joy, and embrace post-traumatic growth. This episode invites you to stop waiting for “later” and start living on your own terms now.
What You’ll Learn:
- Why it’s time to stop mistaking ambition for identity
- The quiet danger of "performing wellness"
- How to move from self-improvement to self-examination
- The signs and power of post-traumatic growth
- Why tending to your joy isn’t optional — it’s essential
Key Takeaways & Timestamps:
[06:10] – From Self-Improvement to Self-Examination
Daria explains why self-improvement can become another form of hustle—and how self-examination invites softness, clarity, and truth.
[14:50] – Burn the Bucket List
This is the moment that names the episode: a rallying cry to abandon achievement checklists and start asking, “Does this feel good?”
[21:00] – There Is No Later
A mic-drop reminder that deferring joy is a trap. The life you want isn’t down the road—it’s in your daily decisions now.
[25:00] – The Power of Post-Traumatic Growth
Daria introduces PTG and unpacks how growth after hardship is not only possible but already happening for many Black women.
[33:00] – Joy Is Not a Luxury, It’s Medicine
A bold truth: chronic stress is harming us. Prioritizing joy, rest, and pleasure is not selfish—it’s survival.
🔗 Connect with Daria Burke:
- Instagram: @dariaburke
- dariaburke.com
- LinkedIn newsletter: The Power of Possibility
- Buy her debut memoir, "Of My Own Making."
CHECK OUT OUR PARTNERS:
- Happy Mammoth and use my code BGB for a great deal: www.happymammoth.com
- Revolve and use code BGB for a great deal: https://www.revolve.com/bgb
💬 STAY IN TOUCH
If you’re looking for more ways to connect with the Black Girl Burnout community, we’ve got you covered:
- Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @blackgirlburnout — Each platform offers something different, so come vibe with us where it feels right for you.
- Join our Substack family! Think of it as a modern-day online magazine (Tumblr-coded for the millennial hearts). We share weekly reflections, tips, tools, and deeper insights into each podcast episode—plus personal notes from Kelley’s life.
- Become a paid Substack subscriber for just $8/month (about the cost of a fancy latte) and access exclusive content like digital tools, apps, and free resources that are valued far beyond that.
- Work with Kelley directly:
- Book a 90-minute Clarity Catalyst Coaching Session — a deep-dive roadmap session to bring clarity and strategy to your next life move (not therapy, just powerful support).
- If you’re in New York State, Kelley is also accepting short-term therapy clients with select insurance and private pay options. Sessions are designed to be focused and transformational within 90 days. Join the waitlist now.
What are you ready to burn from your bucket list? DM us on IG @blackgirlburnout or share your thoughts in the comments.
Our Sponsors:
* Check out PharmaNutra and use my code BGB for a great deal: https://pharmanutra-us.com
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