The "strong black woman" archetype—a perception that Black women are naturally strong, resilient, self-contained, and self-sacrificing—is a burden that has been carried since what feels like the beginning of time. According to a 2014 study done by the Journal of Black Psychology, "evidence suggests that SBW endorsement limits Black women's ability to cope healthily which exacerbates the negative mental health outcomes of stress." Fast forward to 2020-2021, and a pandemic only adds to that burden. Luckily, there's some brilliant Black women making moves in the mental health space by advocating for the demographic that is often overlooked. A year into the spread of COVID-19 across the US, not only is this virus killing Black women at a faster rate than their white counterparts, it's also leaving behind a heavier load.
The professionals, founders, directors and CEOs below have created outlets that are safe spaces for Black women to feel heard while providing resources to cope with the very real stressors only amplified by the pandemic. Find out more about the movements they're spearheading along with advice they shared with xoNecole on how to begin the healing process.
Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, Licensed psychologist, founder and podcast host, Therapy for Black Girls
Courtesy of Dr. Joy
Photo Credit: Tammy McGarity Photography
Therapy for Black Girls is an online space dedicated to encouraging the mental wellness of Black women and girls. Below is Dr. Joy's four-point plan to showing yourself grace:
"(1) There's nothing wrong with you and yes many of us feel the same way. (2) Work with your rhythms. On the days you have a little more energy, lean into that and on the days you don't, lean into that as well. (3) Call in the reinforcements. Order in food or use grocery pickup instead of shopping. (4) Give yourself permission to do the bare minimum."
Dr. Karen I. Wilson, Ph.D., Director of ChildNEXUS
Courtesy of Dr. Karen Wilson
Photo Credit: ChildNEXUS
ChildNEXUS is a web-based platform that connects parents whose children struggle with learning or social-emotional issues with professionals who provide psychological and educational support services. Launched during the pandemic, ChildNEXUS is a Caress and IFundWomen of ColorCOVID-19 grant recipient which contributed to its success with funds, partnerships and more.
"I recommend seeking support and collaborating with others. Getting guidance reduces decision fatigue and presents you with options available to you that you may not have considered on your own, and collaborating with others also gives you an opportunity to discuss pain points and brainstorm how to address challenges. In 2020, I received coaching from IFundWomen and IFundWomen of Color, and their coaches encouraged me to launch a crowdfunding campaign for ChildNEXUS (yes, during a pandemic). I was able to receive a tremendous amount of support and collaborate with like-minded professionals at a critical time."
Naj Austin, Founder & CEO of Ethel’s Club
Courtesy of Naj Austin
Photo Credit: Ethel's Club
Ethel's Club is on a mission to create healing spaces that center and celebrate people of color through conversation, wellness and creativity. Launched during the pandemic, Ethel's Club is a Caress and IFundWomen of ColorCOVID-19 grant recipient which contributed to its success with funds, partnerships and more.
"My advice for people to thrive is to feel empowered by accomplishing the 'little' things - getting out of bed, going on a walk, making a nice meal, watering your plants. So much has been taken from us this year and we've experienced a profound amount of loss. It's important we reclaim our joy and sense of self wherever and however we can. I encourage people to build new rituals and practices that bring them joy. So much of our identity was tied to 'the before'—what does a healthy, happy version of you look like now?"
Elyse Fox, Founder & CEO of Sad Girls Club
Courtesy of Elyse Fox
Photo Credit: @jockograves
Sad Girls Club is a non-profit organization on a mission to create community and diminish the stigma around mental health, with a special emphasis on supporting women of color and the Millennial and GenZ population.
"My advice for pandemic fatigue is to slow down, listen to your body, and answer your body. Ask yourself what your body needs to get through the day, week and month. There's this unspoken sense of 'rushing' that I've been trying to unsubscribe to. The email can wait, the meeting can be rescheduled. We've been living through this for over a year now, and our mental health must be prioritized to get through this with our whole self intact."
Brianne Patrice, Executive Director of Sad Girls Club & Founder of Twenty Nine Thirty
Courtesy of Brianne Patrice
Photo Credit: Sad Girls Club
Twenty Nine Thirty is a restorative community connecting the dots between sensuality, sexuality, healing and wellness.
"Reclaim your inner child. So many of us are disconnected from our inner joy. Our energy is misaligned, because our inner child has been silenced or we've silenced them in hopes of protecting them. She, He or They, don't need our protection (not in that way). They need our love, fulfillment, exploration and connection. Thus, all of the things that once brought you joy, and all of the things you were told you were 'too grown for'- pick them back up and have fun!"
Cat Lantigua, Founder & CEO of Goddess Council
Courtesy of Cat Lantigua
Photo Credit: D'ana Nuñez (@itcovl)
Goddess Council brings together all women who are looking to make new friendships, participate in meaningful conversations, heal collectively, and exercise their divine right to experience joy.
"The past year has been challenging on so many levels. I think when reflecting on how we've been affected by the pandemic, we should all start off by acknowledging the fortitude we each possess to have made it through such trying times. We were all tested, yet we persevered! My advice for Black women as we still navigate the pandemic and try to find ways to thrive is to be gentle, and extend grace to yourself whenever possible. Of course, each of us have goals and aspirations we look to for motivation, but if the 'game plan' has changed as a result of this post-COVID reality, that is truly OK. I recommend using the past twelve months as a reminder to prioritize your mental health, cherished relationships, and to lean into wellness practices that make your life better."
Dr. Afiya Mbilishaka, Founder & CEO of PsychoHairapy, clinical psychologist and hairstylist
Courtesy of Dr. Afiya
Photo Credit: PsychoHairapy
Dr. Afiya innovated the practice and research of, "PsychoHairapy," where she uses hair as an entry point for mental health services in beauty salons and barbershops, as well as through social media. She's partnered with My Black is Beautiful to spread awareness.
"Black women in particular face unique stressors of racism and sexism in American society that negatively impact our mental health, but often we do not have access to or compatibility with the systems of care to fully address our mental health needs. We have convinced ourselves that we have to be strong and stoic throughout this pandemic. We have filled our schedules with taking care of everyone else—our partners, our parents and our children—we don't take care of the most important person—ourselves! However, here is a reminder that taking care of ourselves, whether physical or emotional, makes us better able to care for our loved ones in the long run.
"Enter the haircare and self-care plan. Yes, establish a whole plan that includes the simultaneous process of haircare and mental health care. This plan could entail everything from adding an invigorating scalp scrub to your routine, to going to bed early, or even getting your hair professionally styled. A slight color change, a defined twist out or a new updo can drastically change the way we feel about ourselves. If you are feeling down, find a new addition to your self-care routine, a new wash day routine or some bantu knots may just be calling your name. And of course, rest, move your body, meditate, eat well, reconnect, and know your limits."
Featured image courtesy of @jockograves
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The show is exactly what you’d expect when you put a media pro and a sports legend together—a mix of real talk, unfiltered moments, and guest interviews that feel like family kickbacks. As the duo wraps up their first season, Rocsi sat down with xoNecole to talk about teaming up with Deion, the wildest moments on set, and why streaming platforms like Tubi are shaking up the talk show world.
Scoring the Gig & Clicking Instantly with Deion
Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence
Deion Sanders had been dreaming of hosting a talk show, and when Tubi came calling, it was only right he made it happen. But before he found the perfect co-host, he held auditions with different women for the spot.
Lucky for us, Rocsi threw her hat in the ring, and the connection was instant. “You just can’t buy chemistry like we have,” she tells us. “We are legit like big brother, little sister—fighting, cracking jokes, telling each other off. When you watch the show, it’s like watching family.”
Mixing News, Culture & Sports—Minus the Snooze
With We Got Time Today, Rocsi and Deion cover everything from the latest headlines to celebrity tea and, of course, sports. But instead of stiff, rehearsed segments, the show keeps it loose and unpredictable.
“We’re not breaking the mold—it’s not rocket science,” Rocsi jokes. “We just bring our own flair, our authenticity, and our personalities to it. Deion has firsthand experience in sports, so when we talk about athletes, he brings a different perspective.”
And the best part? Unlike traditional talk shows that rush through quick interviews, We Got Time Today actually takes its time. “A lot of shows might give you one or two segments with a guest,” Rocsi says. “With us, we actually sit down and have real-life conversations.”
Her Top Guests (So Far!)
From music icons to relationship experts, the show has already had some unforgettable guests—but a few stand out for Rocsi.
“Ice Cube was our first guest, and he’s just legendary,” she says. “Kirk Franklin had us cracking up when he broke into a full choir freestyle for our Christmas special. And anytime we get Dr. Bryant on to put Deion in the hot seat? That’s my favorite!”
And of course, there’s Nick Cannon. “Nick was amazing,” she adds. “You already know he’s going to bring the energy and say something wild.”
Tag-Team Hosting with Deion: The Inside Scoop
While Deion Sanders is best known for his football greatness, Rocsi says he’s also one of the funniest people she’s ever worked with.
“He’s goofy—like, really goofy,” she laughs. “A lot of people didn’t know that side of him, but now they do. He can crack a joke, and if you’re too sensitive, good luck, because he will go in. But the best part? I throw it right back at him! Sometimes we just look at each other like, ‘Okay, that was a good one.’”
But beyond the laughs, she admires his insane work ethic. “Watching him juggle everything he does is just super admirable,” she says.
How "We Got Time Today" Brings That "106 & Park" Energy
Photo by David Livingston/Getty Images
For those wondering if We Got Time Today feels like 106 & Park 2.0, Rocsi says it’s a whole different vibe.
“The only comparison I’d make is that it’s a destination for the culture,” she explains. “It’s a platform where our people can come, feel safe, and have real conversations. But other than that, this is Deion’s world—we’re just having fun in it.”
The Talk Show Shake-Up: Why This Show Hits Different
Unlike traditional networks, We Got Time Today lives exclusively on Tubi, proving that streaming platforms are changing how we watch talk shows.
“Tubi is giving more people opportunities and making content more accessible,” Rocsi says. “Deion is a huge Tubi fan—he literally loves Black cinema—so it just made sense for him. And honestly? He’s got me watching it too!”
Real Ones Only: Women Holding Each Other Down
Rocsi credits her best friend, Chantelle, for always keeping her grounded. “She kept pouring into me, reminding me of who I am,” she shares. Even Deion Sanders makes sure to give her flowers, often calling her “the hostess with the most.”
In the industry, she’s built lasting bonds with women like Julissa Bermundez, Angie Martinez, and Angela Yee. “Julissa and I still kick it—her house is basically Sephora, so I just shop there,” she jokes. She also cherishes her friendships with Melyssa Ford and Robin Roberts, who have offered unwavering support. “Robin has always been there for me,” Rocsi says, reflecting on the wisdom she’s gained from the legendary journalist.
With the show’s first season wrapping up, Rocsi is grateful for the experience and excited for what’s next. “We’re having a good time, and the audience can feel that,” she says.
And if you haven’t tuned in yet? Well, Rocsi and Deion got time—so you might as well make some too.
Catch We Got Time Today now streaming on Tubi!
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10 of those things are listed down below. And although each of them can benefit you, health-wise, in a myriad of different ways, today we’re going to solely focus on how all of them can be relied upon to get your skin into the kind of condition that you’ve always wanted it to be.
1. Coconut Water Serum
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If you want to get a bit more potassium or antioxidants in your system, coconut water can make that happen. Since potassium is something that helps to keep hydration in your skin and antioxidants are awesome at slowing down the signs of aging, these are already two wonderful reasons to consume coconut water consistently. Aside from that, coconut water is also good for your skin because it contains antimicrobial properties that help to prevent breakouts, plus, it is a solid source of vitamin C which helps to boost collagen production so that your skin has more elasticity.
Wanna hydrate your skin from the outside in? Check out this Coconut Water and Jojoba Oil recipehere.
2. Papaya Masks
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A fruit that also contains a lot of vitamin C and antioxidants is papaya. It also has an impressive amount of Vitamin A in it which is good to know becausevitamin A is a nutrient that can help reduce skin sagging, decrease hyperpigmentation, and even soothe the symptoms that are associated with psoriasis. Since papaya features properties that also fight inflammation, it can help to speed up the healing process of pimples and, if you’re looking forfree radicals to stay far away from your skin, papaya can do that for you as well.
Looking for a gentle way to exfoliate your skin while soothing any skin irritation that you may have at the same time? Check out this DIY Papaya Maskhere.
3. Bone Broth
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I am someone who enjoys cooking withbone broth. If you’ve always wondered exactly what it is, bone broth is simply the nutrients that come from animal bones after they’ve been soaking in water for a long period of time.Since bone broth is packed with everything from protein and calcium to magnesium and amino acids, it’s definitely something that can give your skin a boost of health from the inside out. Specifically, the amino acids in bone broth help to reduce inflammation and help you get a good night’s rest (which is paramount as far as achieving glowing skin is concerned).
Also,the collagen that’s in bone broth can help to make your skin firmer and more youthful-looking. So, if you want to proactively help out your skin, cook with bone broth more often. Within a matter of weeks, you should notice a difference.
4. Black Cumin Seed Oil Cleanser
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I ain’t got not one lie to tell you — when it comes to something that is holistically beneficial for your health, black cumin seed oil is that one. So much, in fact, that there are several articles out in cyberspace (like this onehere) that list over 100 ways that it can do wonders for your overall health and well-being. Your skin will adore this particular oil becauseit contains properties that fight acne, treat psoriasis and eczema, andhelp to dissolve warts. Also, this oil contains antibacterial and antiviral properties that help to keep your skin healthy, in general.
If you’re looking for an all-natural way to deeply cleanse your skin, black cumin seed oil can certainly be of great assistance. You can read more about why and how by goinghere.
5. Watermelon Skin Toner
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On the palate tip, few things make me happier than cubes of watermelon (when it’s in season, which is typicallybetween May and September). Since it consists of92 percent water, you know that watermelon is going to hydrate your skin — plus, the vitamin C that’s in it will do a good job of increasing your skin’s collagen production. Some other great things about watermelon (as far as your skin is concerned) is ithelps to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress and it can evenhelp to even out your skin tone.
A super refreshing way to tone and tighten your skin is to use a toner that has watermelon in it. A quick and easy recipe that will help you to do just that is locatedhere.
6. Hemp Milk Soap
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At the end of the day, hemp milk is a milk alternative that is made by mixing water and seeds from the Cannabis sativa plant (yes, the plant that makes weed) together. Since there are a lot of fatty acids in hemp milk, that automatically makes it “skin worthy” because fatty acids help to hydrate your skin, improve the texture of your skin, and reverse some of the environmental damage that your skin may be experiencing. Since there are also vitamins A, D, and E in hemp milk, that makes it beneficial for your skin as well because vitamin A can help to unclog your pores, vitamin D can help to cultivate new skin cells, and vitamin E can help to smooth out the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
If you’re looking for a way to soothe your entire body with hemp milk, there’s a cool (albeit ingredient-rich) recipe for how to make hemp milk soaphere.
7. Tomato Paste Mask
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It’s not that I don’t like tomatoes, it’s just that…if I go months without eating one, I don’t really notice. I wish that wasn’t the case too becausetomatoes are a good source of fiber, folate, Vitamin C, beta-carotene, and potassium.Your skin needs beta-carotene because it’s an antioxidant that helps to protect it from UV damage and it reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles that you might have. Some other benefits that come withusing tomatoes for your skin are they reduce skin inflammation, boost collagen production, help to prevent cellular damage and they work well as a skin exfoliant.
So long as your skin isn’t super sensitive (because there is a fair amount of acid that’s in this particular fruit), it will be so happy that you’ve given it a face mask that has tomatoes as one of its main ingredients. StyleCraze has many for you to choose from. Gohere to check ‘em all out.
8. Fig Face Polish
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If you’ve always wondered whatthe difference is between a fig and a date, let’s get free today. Although they both are fruits, figs contain more calcium, aren’t as sweet or sticky and they also have fewer wrinkles than dates do. On the skin health tip, figs contain fiber which helps you to stay regular which can help to detox your system and prevent breakouts.Figs also contain nutrients that can help to speed up the healing process of symptoms that are associated with dermatitis and eczema.
If you’re looking for something that will deeply hydrate and moisturize your skin, figs can do that. Figs also have a pretty good reputation when it comes to removing dead skin cells so that your skin’s texture will be soft and smooth; this is partly thanks to the antioxidants that are in them.
Ready for your skin to have a brilliant glow? Check out this fig face polish recipehere.
9. Aloe Vera and Honey Facials
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There was actually a season in my life when I used todrink Aloe vera juice. Although I preferred to mix it with juice, I must admit that I could tell that it was good for me when it came tomy digestive system. I’m pretty sure that my skin enjoyed it as well, seeing that Aloe vera, internally, also helps to hydrate skin and keep it well-moisturized. If you actually use the gel on your skin,it can help to heal inflammatory acne, speed up the healing process of eczema and psoriasis symptoms and it can even assist withminimizing the appearance of pores.
As far as honey and your skin go, it’s dope because the properties in it will help to treat issues like acne, eczema, and psoriasis, it can soften the appearance of acne scars and it can even brighten your complexion over time.
If you’re someone who is all about DIY facials, this DIY Aloe & Honey Face Mask (here) will absolutely get you right.
10. Zinc Gel for Glass Skin
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A mineral that your skin definitely needs you to have in your system on a consistent basis is zinc. Studies have proven that zinc can do everything for your skin fromhelping to prevent and heal acne and providing it with protection from the sun tosoothing the symptoms that are associated with eczema and rosacea andhelping to repair DNA damage that could lead to signs of aging. Zinc-enriched foods that can help you to receive these perks internally includelamb, lentils,pecans, shiitake mushrooms, and fortified cereals.
Something else that is high in zinc — chia seeds. That said, if you like the look thatglass skin provides, you can actually make a homemade gel that can help you achieve that look. The instructions that will help you to do so are locatedhere.
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All of these are edible ways to achieve beautiful skin, whether you eat them or apply them.
Give them a shot. They’re delicious (inside) and easy (outside) ways to achieve your skin goals without any of the sometimes expensive, chemical-filled drama that comes with a lot of these commercial brands out here. And that’s just the truth.
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