On this week's episode of Let's Talk About It with The Turners on News & Talk WAOK, hosts Rob and Vickie Turner welcomed personal development coach Naja Drakes for a powerful discussion on work-life balance and the pervasive "superwoman" myth that burdens Black women. Naja, a sought-after coach known for empowering women to live authentically, shared her philosophy on prioritizing well-being and rejecting societal pressures that demand Black women be everything to everyone.
Naja Drakes emphasized that work-life balance is not about achieving perfection but about creating harmony through intentional choices. She advocates for setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and redefining success on personal terms. "Balance isn't a one-size-fits-all formula," Naja explained. "It's about knowing your values, saying 'no' without guilt, and giving yourself permission to rest." Her approach encourages women to align their time and energy with what truly matters, whether that’s career ambitions, family, or personal growth.
A significant portion of the episode focused on dismantling the "superwoman" narrative, a stereotype rooted in the expectation that Black women must be endlessly strong, self-sacrificing, and capable of handling all challenges without complaint. Drawing from discussions in works like Michele Wallace’s Black Macho and the Myth of the Superwoman, Naja highlighted how this myth, while framed as a badge of resilience, often leads to burnout, stress, and neglected mental health. She shared personal anecdotes about her own journey, noting how internalizing this archetype once left her overwhelmed. "The superwoman myth tells us we have to do it all—be the perfect professional, mother, partner, and community pillar—but that’s a trap," she said. "Strength is in vulnerability and asking for help when you need it."
Rob and Vickie facilitated a heartfelt conversation, weaving in their own experiences to underscore the importance of community support and open dialogue. Naja’s insights resonated deeply, offering listeners practical strategies like journaling, time-blocking, and seeking therapy to break free from the pressures of the superwoman ideal.
Follow Naja Drakes for more empowering content on Instagram (@NajaDrakesCoach), Twitter (@NajaDrakes), and her website, www.najadrakes.com, where she offers coaching services, workshops, and resources for personal development. Her mission is to help women reclaim their time, energy, and purpose. Watch here!
Tune in to Let’s Talk About It with The Turners every Sunday from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM on News & Talk WAOK. Can’t listen live? Stream the show online via the Audacy app, iHeartRadio, or TuneIn apps, available on mobile devices, tablets, or smart speakers. With features like Audacy’s "Enhanced Rewind," you can revisit key moments of the episode at your convenience. Join Rob, Vickie, and their inspiring guests for conversations that uplift and empower!