The Radical Southern Belle: Walking in Your Purpose and Owning Your Journey

Finding Your Purpose Is a Journey

Discovering your purpose isn't always a straight path. It's often filled with detours, self-doubt, and unexpected turns. For years, I embarked on projects I was passionate about—ideas and initiatives brimming with potential. Yet, time and again, doubt and fear halted my progress. That little voice whispered that I wasn't good enough, that I wasn't ready, that the world didn't need what I had to offer.

But here's what I've learned: those experiences weren't failures; they were lessons. Each setback was a stepping stone guiding me toward my true purpose. Now, with the Radical Southern Belle, I'm stepping boldly into a new chapter, and I'm inviting you to do the same.

Purpose Isn't Found—It's Built

Purpose doesn't come neatly packaged with instructions. It's something we build over time through introspection, trial and error, and the courage to break free from others' expectations. We often get tangled in societal pressures, losing sight of our own passions. But purpose grows from our experiences, resilience, and commitment to work that resonates with our souls.

As Black women, this journey can be even more complex. We're navigating layers of societal expectations that urge us to be everything to everyone but ourselves. We're told our value lies in how much we can endure or serve others. While caring for our communities is a strength, it's crucial to honor our individual dreams and ambitions.

Walking in your purpose is about reclaiming your power, understanding your worth, and embracing the unique path that's yours alone.

The Power of Vulnerability

In a world that tells us to always "have it together," vulnerability can feel risky. But being vulnerable is one of the most powerful acts of courage. It's the key to forming authentic connections, building trust, and creating spaces where others feel seen and understood.

For much of my life, I felt the need to present a flawless image to the world. I hid my fears and insecurities, believing that showing them made me weak. But this façade only created distance between me and those I wanted to reach—and even distanced me from myself. I realized that true strength lies in authenticity.

There's immense power in showing up as your true self, imperfections and all. The more I've opened up about my struggles, the deeper my connections have become. And those genuine connections have strengthened me in ways perfectionism never could.

At the Radical Southern Belle, transparency is foundational. This is a space where we can be honest about our journeys—the highs and the lows—and where vulnerability is celebrated as a sign of strength. Whether I'm sharing the challenges of balancing motherhood with my professional goals or discussing personal setbacks, I'm committed to being real. Because none of us have to walk this path alone.

“Actionable Takeaway: Try journaling about something you’ve been hesitant to share. Reflect on how opening up might bring you closer to others and to yourself.”

Celebrate Your Journey

We carry so much on our shoulders, often without pausing to acknowledge how far we've come. Focused on the next goal or challenge, we forget to honor our achievements along the way. But every step of your journey matters.

The Radical Southern Belle is about taking a moment to say, "I'm proud of who I am and how far I've come." It's about owning our stories, struggles, and victories. Recognizing that even when the road is tough, we show up for ourselves and those around us.

In my life, I've learned to pause and celebrate wins—no matter how small. Launching a project aligned with my values or simply making it through a challenging week deserves acknowledgment. Celebrating your journey doesn't mean you have it all figured out; it means you honor the process and trust in your growth.

Let's celebrate each other's journeys, lifting one another up in a world that too often tries to hold us back.

“Actionable Takeaway: List three accomplishments from the past month, big or small, and take a moment to appreciate your progress.”

Reclaiming the Title of Southern Belle

When you hear "Southern Belle," you might picture a dainty, demure woman—humble and fragile. But being a Black Southern Belle is a radical act. It's about reclaiming a title that wasn't originally meant for us and transforming it into something powerful.

Historically, Black women weren't seen as "Southern Belles" because we weren't afforded the same womanhood as white women. Our histories and contributions were erased. But today, we're redefining that narrative.

Women like Fannie Lou Hamer, Rosa Parks, Georgia Gilmore, and Coretta Scott King were Radical Southern Belles. They held onto Southern traditions while leading movements for civil rights and social justice. They were nurturers, caretakers, fierce advocates, and brilliant strategists. They refused to conform to stereotypes or traditional gender roles, becoming landowners, entrepreneurs, and creators of new possibilities.

Being a Radical Southern Belle means embracing all facets of who we are. We can be nurturing and demure, but we're also radical in our fight for justice, equality, and self-determination. We're creators, leaders, and keepers of Black Southern traditions.

Owning Your Journey and Walking in Your Purpose

Owning your journey is a radical act. It means accepting your unique path with all its ups and downs. It's giving yourself grace when things don't go as planned and trusting that every experience prepares you for what's next.

I invite you to join me on this journey through the Radical Southern Belle. Together, we'll explore what it means to walk boldly in our purpose, to be vulnerable, and to celebrate our journeys—no matter where they lead us. Whether you're just beginning to discover your path or have been on it for years, this is a space to inspire, uplift, and remind you that your journey is worth celebrating.

We are all walking in our purpose, even when we don't realize it. Through the Radical Southern Belle, let's create a community where we walk together, lifting each other up as we step into the fullness of who we are.

“Actionable Takeaway: Reflect on one area of your life where you can embrace your journey more fully. What steps can you take to own your story and walk confidently in your purpose?”

Looking Forward

As we move forward, I envision the Radical Southern Belle as more than a platform—it's a movement. A space where we not only share our stories but also create tangible change in our lives and communities. We'll delve into topics like self-love, activism, and the preservation of our rich Southern traditions.

I'm excited about what's to come, and I'm grateful to have you on this journey with me. Let's continue to walk boldly, embrace vulnerability, and celebrate every step along the way.

With love and determination,

Kratina

The Evolution of Self-Care: From Acts of Comfort to Deeper Self-Love

When we think of self-care, images of spa days, bubble baths, and solo trips may come to mind. And while these practices can be nurturing, they only scratch the surface of what it means to truly care for ourselves. Self-care is important, but when we pair it with self-love, we deepen the way we show up for ourselves and transform the way we move through life.

The Deeper Work of Self-Care

At its core, self-care is about tending to ourselves—our minds, our bodies, and our spirits. But there’s a difference between surface-level care and the deeper practices of self-awareness and healing. It’s not just about escaping stress for a moment of peace; it’s about recognizing and addressing what’s causing the stress in the first place.

For me, that deeper work has looked like sitting with discomfort instead of avoiding it. I’ve noticed how certain triggers—like anxiety, depression, or procrastination—manifest in my actions. Sometimes it’s doom-scrolling on social media, other times it’s impulsive shopping. These are moments when I’ve learned to pause and ask myself: What am I avoiding? What do I need to address to heal?

Facing those feelings instead of masking them with distractions has been a radical act of self-love.

Self-Love: The Next Step in Self-Care

Self-care is important, but self-love takes it to another level. It’s the difference between doing what feels good in the moment and doing what truly honors your long-term well-being. Self-love isn’t just a sentiment—it’s an action. It’s the intentional practice of treating yourself with the same compassion, patience, and investment that you would show to someone you deeply love.

Think about the distinction: Caring about someone is kind, but loving them often requires more. Love demands commitment. Love inspires action. When we apply this to ourselves, it means going beyond the surface. It means recognizing what we need, creating systems that support our growth, and making choices that align with our values—even when it’s hard.

For example:

• Taking time to reflect on your triggers and addressing them head-on is self-love.

• Choosing to set boundaries that protect your peace is self-love.

• Celebrating small wins, even when no one else notices, is self-love.

Mixing Self-Care with Self-Love

Self-care and self-love work hand in hand. While self-care might look like a quiet evening reading your favorite book, self-love is the commitment to carve out that time for yourself despite the demands of your day. Self-care might be indulging in a luxurious spa treatment, but self-love is acknowledging why you deserve that rest and holding space for yourself without guilt.

The Radical Southern Belle is about more than tradition; it’s about evolving the way we show up for ourselves and our communities. And that starts with doing the deeper work of caring for—and loving—ourselves.

An Invitation

As we prepare for a new year, I invite you to reflect on your own practices of self-care and self-love. What triggers or habits do you want to face head-on? How can you show up for yourself in ways that go beyond comfort and truly demonstrate love? Write it down. Sit with it. Let’s commit to this work together.

Because when we love ourselves deeply, we show the world that we are worthy of care, dignity, and joy—and we begin to transform our lives from the inside out.

Let me know how you are showing your self love in the comments!

Criminalization and Community: Reflections on an Encounter in Little Rock

While in town for my cousin’s funeral, I found myself at a gas station in Little Rock, just picking up a bottle of water and a snack. What should have been a simple errand turned into a moment of deep reflection and frustration. As I approached the counter, I noticed a series of flyers taped to the protective enclosure around the store owner. Each flyer displayed the faces of Black patrons, accused of stealing from the store. Among them, what caught my eye most was the image of two young Black girls, accompanied by the handwritten question, "Where are your parents?"

This scene stirred something within me—a mix of anger, sadness, and the recognition of a pattern that is all too familiar. The criminalization of Black people, particularly Black girls, is a systemic issue that has roots deep in the fabric of our society. These girls, whose only crime may have been youthful indiscretion, were now being publicly shamed and labeled in a way that will likely follow them far beyond the walls of that gas station.

The interaction that followed between the store owner and me quickly escalated. I questioned him—challenged him—on why he felt it was appropriate to display these images in such a way. His response was defensive, rooted in a narrative of frustration that I could understand, but not condone. It was clear that he saw these young girls and others like them not as members of the community, but as threats to his livelihood.

This incident is reflective of a broader issue—how Black communities are often treated by immigrant-owned businesses. There is much talk about solidarity between marginalized communities, but the reality is that racism and prejudice can still persist within these relationships. The history of Black-Asian relations in America is complex, marred by instances of violence and mistrust, such as the tragic killing of Latasha Harlins by a Korean store owner in 1991. These events have left scars that continue to influence interactions today.

Moreover, this encounter made me reflect on the broader consequences of integration. While it broke down barriers, it also dispersed the tight-knit Black communities that once thrived. Back then, we had our own businesses, our own schools, our own professionals—doctors, lawyers, shop owners—all living within and contributing to the community. The disintegration of these communities, paired with the influx of non-Black business owners, has created spaces where we are often viewed with suspicion rather than respect.

In the end, the store owner locked me in the store when our argument reached a peak. I had to remind him that I was a lawyer, and that this wasn’t a battle he wanted to escalate. He eventually let me out, but the exchange left a lasting impact on me. It underscored the need for continued advocacy for our communities and a rethinking of how we engage with those who profit from our presence without truly understanding or respecting us.

We need to reclaim our spaces, support Black-owned businesses, and build up our communities in ways that prioritize respect, dignity, and mutual understanding. As for those who come into our communities to do business, they must understand that with economic opportunity comes responsibility—the responsibility to treat us with the humanity we deserve.

Let's keep having these conversations and pushing for the long-overdue change.

Embracing the Mic: Preparing for My First Podcast Episode

Have you ever had a moment where life pushed you to pause, reflect, and redefine your path?

That was me, sitting on the other side of law school. I had achieved the degree, survived the exams, and crossed the finish line—but I was still wondering, what’s next? I felt... stuck. I knew I didn’t want to practice law, but I had this dream, this vision of what my life could be, but I couldn’t figure out how to take that next step.

But here’s the thing about feeling stuck—it forces you to stop and really listen. And when I did, I realized something that changed everything: my path wasn’t about following the traditional route. It was about stepping into my own power, embracing who I am, and sharing my story authentically.

Fast forward to today, as I am preparing to record the first episodes of the Radical Southern Belle Podcast, I can’t help but reflect on how far I’ve come. This isn’t just about hitting record on a mic. It’s about something much bigger—owning my voice and creating a space where other Black women (and men) can feel empowered to own theirs too.

The Podcast Vision

For years, I’ve felt called to explore the intersections of social justice, radical self-love, and Southern identity. Growing up as a proud Black Southern woman, I carry the stories, lessons, and resilience of my ancestors. Through this podcast, I want to honor that legacy while challenging the status quo.

The Radical Southern Belle Podcast is a space where we’ll dive into honest conversations about:

• Empowerment: How we claim our power in a world that often tries to diminish it.

• Social Justice: Bridging tradition with progress to create meaningful change in our communities.

• Radical Self-Love: Learning to see ourselves fully and love every part of who we are.

This podcast is for anyone who believes that transformation begins from within and ripples outward to change the world.

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Kratina Baker reviewing podcast episode notes on a laptop.

The Journey to Episode One

Preparing for this podcast has been a deeply personal and transformative experience. From brainstorming ideas to adjusting the mic for the first time, every step has been a reminder of why this matters.

It’s not just about creating content—it’s about creating connection. It’s about speaking to the parts of ourselves that we’ve been told to hide and showing up authentically, flaws and all.

As I sit at my desk, with my notes scattered and my mic ready, I feel a mixture of nerves and excitement. I know this journey won’t be perfect, but that’s the beauty of it. Growth happens when we step outside our comfort zones and let our voices be heard.

A Call to You

This is one of my transformative moments. What’s yours?

Think about a time when you felt stuck or uncertain—what did you learn about yourself? How did it change your path? I’d love to hear your stories. Share them with me in the comments or on social media using #RadicalSouthernBelle.

Every transformative journey begins with a single step. Recording my first podcast episode is one of mine, and I’m so grateful to have you here as part of this journey.

Stay tuned—the Radical Southern Belle Podcast launches Spring 2025. Let’s grow, reflect, and transform together.

In Solidarity,

Kratina

Bridging Despair and Hope: A Radical Call to Action Post-Election 2024

Introduction: A Black Mother’s Fear and a Nation’s Reckoning

The night of November 5, 2024, I went to bed early—not out of peace, but exhaustion and dread. I took something to help me sleep, hoping to avoid the crushing anxiety of staying up to watch the election results. There was an underlying sense of hope, but I was expecting the worst.

Around 4 a.m., I woke up to use the bathroom, hesitated before looking at my phone, and opened TikTok. The first video I saw was a Black woman crying, her tears confirming my worst fears. My heart sank. As a Black mother, my immediate thoughts went to my children. What would this mean for their futures? 

As I scrolled, the despair was palpable—people heartbroken, angry, talking about leaving the country. It felt surreal, like an episode of The Walking Dead, only the threat wasn’t zombies; it was the ever-present shadow of white supremacy emboldened by another Trump win. Even in the days after, sitting in a coffee shop next to a white person filled me with unease. Who could I trust?

Then came the text messages. Black students received vile messages declaring they were now slaves and to report to be transported to their plantations. My own son’s friends received these text messages, too. By Sunday, the tensions became personal. I answered a call from an unknown number only to hear the words: “nigger bitch.” I laughed—not out of humor, but because this is the absurd reality of being a Black woman in America–a nation that would rather choose hate and fear over recognizing one's humanness. 

The grim reality is that this election wasn’t just about a candidate or a party; it was about a moral crisis that America is once again suffering. What is a moral crisis? It’s when a nation loses its conscience, when systems of power disregard humanity for the sake of control. This is where we are. We’ve been here before. Reverend Martin Luther King Jr., in his speech “The Role of the Church in Facing the Nation's Chief Moral Dilemma,” called out America’s failure to uphold love and dignity for all people despite its scientific and technological advancements. He urged church leaders to confront racial injustice and lead the way toward a non-segregated society. King emphasized that true progress requires not just material achievements but also a moral commitment to equality and unity. The echoes of King's call for moral accountability reverberate today, reminding us that the fight for justice is far from over. In a recent interview with CNN, Reverend Dr. William J. Barber II, a prominent voice for social justice and moral leadership, offered a powerful critique of the 2024 election and its implications for democracy. Reverend William J. Barber II builds on King’s legacy, emphasizing that democracy is not a passive ideal but an active pursuit. Progress has never been linear, and resistance has always been part of the fight for justice. In moments like this, we must remember our history, our ancestors, and our communities to find the strength to move forward.

“King emphasized that true progress requires not just material achievements but also a moral commitment to equality and unity. The echoes of King’s call for moral accountability reverberate today, reminding us that the fight for justice is far from over.”

Building on this legacy of moral accountability and democratic engagement, I find myself reflecting on the deeper systemic inequities that persist, especially in communities like those I am researching for my capstone project. As part of my master’s program at the Clinton School of Public Service, I am exploring health, economic, and educational disparities in Phillips County, Arkansas—a region steeped in history and shaped by enduring inequities. This work feels particularly urgent in light of the election’s outcome, which has laid bare the consequences of neglecting these critical intersections of justice and equity.

The Unique Role of the South: A Battleground for Justice

The South has always been at the heart of America’s moral reckoning. It is a region steeped in tradition, history, and resilience, but also one that has borne the brunt of systemic oppression. From gerrymandered districts to restrictive voting laws, the South’s challenges mirror the broader fractures in our democracy. Yet, it also holds the power to lead change.

As Reverend Barber points out, racism isn’t just a Black problem—it is a weapon that has been wielded to hurt everyone who isn’t part of the elite. The South knows this all too well. It is here where the fight for voting rights, economic justice, and community empowerment must be fought and won.

Phillips County: A History of Struggle and Resilience

As part of my Master’s program at the Clinton School of Public Service at the University of Arkansas, I am conducting research for my capstone focusing on health, economic, and educational disparities in Phillips County, Arkansas. Located in the Delta region, Phillips County is a microcosm of the South’s deep-seated inequities.

One of its cities, Elaine, Arkansas, is infamous for the Elaine Massacre—also known as the Elaine Race Riot—of 1919. Between September 30 and October 1, one of the deadliest racial conflicts in U.S. history unfolded in this small Delta town. Black sharecroppers, organizing for fair wages, were met with violent resistance from white landowners. The confrontation escalated, and white mobs, aided by federal troops, massacred an estimated 200 Black residents. The incident was a stark reminder of the lengths to which systems of power would go to suppress Black resistance.

Headlines from the Arkansas Democrat concerning the Elaine Massacre of 1919. Source: Encyclopedia of Arkansas

The legacy of the Elaine Massacre persists in Phillips County today. Generations of systemic racism and disinvestment have left the area with staggering inequities:

• 46% of children in Phillips County live in poverty, compared to 11% in Benton County, a predominantly white and affluent county near Little Rock.

• Phillips County’s largely Black population faces limited access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities.

This history isn’t just a story of tragedy; it’s a call to address the roots of inequity that still shape the lives of people in the Delta and beyond. This enduring legacy of systemic inequities is intricately tied to civic engagement, or the lack thereof, in communities like Phillips County. Research increasingly highlights the profound connection between civic participation and community well-being, demonstrating how robust civic infrastructure can improve health outcomes, economic opportunities, and social cohesion. To address these disparities, we must examine how civic health can serve as both a reflection of and a solution to the challenges facing marginalized communities.

Civic Engagement and Health Outcomes: The Intersections We Ignore

Civic engagement is more than voting—it’s about building communities where people can thrive. According to the 2023 County Health Rankings & Roadmaps Report, counties with strong civic infrastructure—such as libraries, parks, and schools—see better health outcomes and social mobility. Conversely, areas like Phillips County, where these resources are underfunded or nonexistent, experience higher rates of poverty, lower educational attainment, and worse health outcomes.

Phillips County, Arkansas residents learn about  healthy cooking and nutrition at the Phillips County Family & Consumer Science Program

These disparities reflect systemic barriers like gerrymandering, restrictive voting laws, and disinvestment in rural areas. Civic spaces aren’t just places to gather—they are lifelines for community cohesion and action. Civic engagement isn’t just about voting; it’s about creating the infrastructure that allows communities to thrive. It’s about ensuring broadband access in rural areas, funding public spaces, and providing opportunities for participation. Without these, communities remain trapped in cycles of poverty and despair.

Lessons from the 2024 Election: A Blueprint for Moving Forward

We cannot afford to disengage. The uncommitted movement failed because disengagement is not a strategy. As Black people, we know the cost of survival in America. But survival is not enough. It’s time to strategize for liberation.

Reverend Barber’s vision of fusion politics offers a roadmap: multi-racial, multi-class coalitions built on moral issues like living wages, healthcare, and education. Here’s how we move forward:

• Invest in Civic Infrastructure: Fund libraries, parks, and community centers in rural areas.

• Engage Marginalized Communities: Center the voices of the most affected by systemic inequities.

• Adopt a Moral Agenda: Shift the narrative to focus on universal issues that resonate across communities.

• Challenge Voter Suppression: Make use of policy advocacy and litigation channels to fight restrictive voting laws and expand access to early voting.

Conclusion: Bridging Tradition with Progress

The 2024 election revealed deep fractures in our nation’s soul, but it also underscored the urgency of our work. As a Black mother, I fight for my children’s futures. As a descendant of slaves, I honor the resilience of my ancestors. And as a citizen of the South, I know that this region holds the power to lead a moral revolution.

This is not the time to walk away. It’s time to organize, demand, and build. It’s time to stop asking for permission and start taking what we deserve.

The question isn’t whether we can create change. The question is: will we rise to meet the moment?

“We cannot afford to disengage. The uncommitted movement failed because disengagement is not a strategy. As Black people, we know the cost of survival in America. But survival is not enough. It’s time to strategize for liberation.”