Holding Each Other Up: Black Mothers Reflect on Asking for Help, Loss and the Healing Power of Celebration

Soil, Shadow, and Spirit

In this episode of Soil, Shadow, and Spirit, Nikki Silvestri gathers Sarai Crane, Denicia Carlay, Idrissa Simmons, Nataki Garrett, and Shirley Johnson for a heartfelt dialogue about sisterhood, healing, and envisioning the future. Together, these Black women reflect on their experiences of navigating motherhood, reclaiming ease, and finding strength in shared vulnerability as they hold space for each other in their roles as mothers and community leaders.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

1. How mutual support among Black women leaders empowers them to face challenges with resilience.
2. The role of sisterhood in addressing and healing from generational trauma.
3. Personal insights on balancing leadership with self-care and honoring the sacred feminine.
4. Reflections on ancestral wisdom and how it shapes their personal and professional lives.

Join us for a powerful conversation that celebrates the strength of Black women coming together to heal, grow, and uplift one another.

Links of Note:

• Soil, Shadow, and Spirit Retreat Series
• Village is Possible
• Pahara Institute

Series Executive Producers: Kalliopeia Foundation and Soil and Shadow

Sound Engineering: Sonya Harris

Music: Galen Silvestri

Host: Nikki Silvestri

Special Thanks: Sarai Crane, Denicia Carlay, Idrissa Simmons, Nataki Garrett, Shirley Johnson, and Noni Limar