A Conversation That Shifted Perspectives

Sometimes the moments that impact your journey aren't planned.

Kenneth "Woody" Copeland has built a significant audience on TikTok by hosting conversations that encourage young Black men to pursue a different path than the one he experienced. Drawing from his own life, he frequently speaks about personal growth, accountability, and reducing gang violence in Black communities. During one of his TikTok lives, I had the opportunity to share the vision behind Black Girls Sweat, Too. I randomly joined and I never expected to be pulled into the conversation, but somehow we ended up talking about things that we both were passionate about. There were more than 1,500 people watching, and by the end of it, I had gained around 40 new followers.

What stood out wasn't the numbers—it was the conversation.

When I explained the vision behind Black Girls Sweat, Too, I told him that I want to create a space where Black women feel safe, welcomed, and free from judgment. A place where we can choose wellness without feeling like we have to explain ourselves.

People sometimes misunderstand the name. They hear Black Girls Sweat, Too and assume it's excluding everyone else. That's never been the point.

We recognize that every woman sweats, works hard, and deserves to feel empowered through movement and fitness. 

But not every woman has had to navigate the unique cultural experiences that many Black women face when it comes to health, fitness, and showing up in wellness spaces.

For years, researchers and public health experts have pointed out that Black women experience unique health disparities, including higher rates of hypertension, heart disease, and obesity, while often facing barriers to accessing culturally relevant wellness resources. The American Heart Association has emphasized that social determinants of health—including access to safe spaces for exercise, healthcare, and community support—play a significant role in these outcomes.  (American Heart Association) (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

Creating spaces where Black women feel seen, encouraged, and represented isn't just inspiring—it's necessary. When we see ourselves reflected in wellness, we're more likely to believe we belong there.

That is why this brand exists.

Black Girls Sweat, Too isn't about saying other women don't belong in fitness. It's about intentionally encouraging Black women to prioritize ourselves in a world that hasn't always made wellness feel accessible, welcoming, or culturally understood.

Woody told me he loved the name.

He also challenged me to think bigger. He suggested that one day I could create something that speaks to everyone, while still keeping Black Girls Sweat, Too rooted in its mission.

Then he said something I'll probably remember for a long time.

He told me,

"One day I'm going to look up and see Black Girls Sweat, Too everywhere."

He said he believes the brand can become something huge. He even told me to send him some merch because he'd wear it and post it.

That meant a lot.

The conversation wasn't only about my brand. We also talked about the Black community, supporting one another, and how there’s always been this silent barrier between us…but it feels like there's a shift happening. More of us are choosing collaboration over competition. More of us are celebrating each other's wins instead of waiting for permission.

I left that live stream feeling different.

Not only because someone with influence believed in me, but because the conversation reminded me why I started.

I've spent so much time questioning whether this vision was "too niche" or whether people would understand it. Today reminded me that when your mission is clear, the right people will understand.

This experience also encouraged me to live stream more often. I've realized that people don't just connect with brands—people connect with purpose, stories, and genuine conversations.

American Heart Association. The state of cardiovascular health in Black women. https://www.heart.org/

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Health of Black or African American Non-Hispanic Population. https://www.cdc.gov/