Black Girl Country Living: Recent Episodes
Hillarie Maddox
Fresh, honest perspectives on connecting with ourselves, each other, and this beautiful earth. Join me each week to slow down, reconnect, and live with purpose.
Welcome Wild Ones
In today’s episode, I read to you my latest substack post: "Endings Are Beginnings." This explores the cyclical nature of life, how seasons, systems, and organizations experience growth, decline, and renewal. Together, we reflect on how we can hold space for the messy, sacred transitions that pave the way for new life.
In This Episode:
- A collective breathwork exercise to center our attention and drop into the present moment.
-
Reflections on the autumn season and the beauty in embracing cycles of decay and renewal.
-
Insights from personal, community, and systemic perspectives on how endings make way for beginnings.
-
An invitation to reflect on how we move through our own transitions, honoring the natural cycles of life.
Rewilding Reflections from the Episode:
“Just like autumn, the releasing of the old is an invitation to reset. It is a beautiful, messy, raw, and sacred deconstruction of the past and an initiation of a new cycle of great potential.”
“Nature never panics when autumn rolls around each year; it simply trusts that death will be followed by birth. I am learning to trust this process, to trust that every ending is simply part of the symphony of new beginnings.”
“We are deep in our autumn season, releasing what no longer serves us. We are setting down ideas of separateness, dominance, and rigid hierarchy in favor of possibilities that honor our responsibilities to ourselves, each other, and the living world.”
Links:
Read the original post on Substack: Endings Are Beginnings
Explore more about Just Transition: Just Transition
Learn more about The Great Turning: The Great Turning
Follow on Instagram: @blackgirl.countryliving
Subscribe to the Substack: BGCL Newsletter + Podcast
Check out the website: Black Girl Country Living
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bgcl.substack.com
Welcome Wild Ones
The Black Girl Country Living Podcast is back! After a year away, I’m excited to jump back behind the microphone to share reflections on rewilding, liberation, and finding the magic in the messy middle. This episode is an invitation to explore how rewilding shows up in all areas of life—from how we mother to how we build community, to how we define success.
In This Episode:
-
A breathwork grounding exercise to bring us into the present moment.
-
The rewilding journey and how it’s shifted my ideas around perfectionism, accountability, and liberation.
-
Reflections on the messy middle of life, from career choices to community building and parenting.
-
An open invitation to join me on this evolving journey—whether it’s through listening, sharing, or starting a conversation.
Rewilding Reflections from the Episode:
-
The garden and the land reflect back to me the ways I was, and was not, trusting myself. It showed me the dissonance between my values and my actions, inviting me into a deeper conversation about who I am and how I move through life. Rewilding, for me, has been about embracing that sacred mirror.
-
Rewilding is not about arriving anywhere; it's about living in the creative, messy process of liberation. I’m learning to sit with discomfort, knowing that growth comes from these in-between spaces, where nothing is certain and everything is still in motion.
-
How do we keep one foot grounded in this world and one foot in a world of potential and possibility? The systems we live within try to keep us small and confined, but rewilding is about finding the courage to step outside of those limits, even when the way forward is unclear.
Links:
-
Follow on Instagram: @blackgirl.countryliving
-
Subscribe to the Substack: BGCL Magazine
-
Learn more on the website: Black Girl Country Living
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bgcl.substack.com
Living in connection with the seasons is a core part of rewilding, and the fall season is all about letting go. While it sound simple, learning to actually release and make space is a practice that takes time, and this year I discovered that letting go is connected to my ability to be grateful. On the show today, I share some difficult things I released this fall and what releasing made space to invite in.
Upcoming Events:
Rewilding Workshop: Balancing Being
Most of us were handed somebody else’s definition of a good life, and we never considered what we wanted for ourselves. It’s time to change that. All are welcome for this 2-hour online workshop to learn fresh perspectives and embodied rewilding practices to move towards a new vision. Join us:
November 29th, 3pm - 5pm PST or December 10th, 2pm - 4pm PST
As a thank you to my newsletter audience, use the code rewild for 50% off the ticket price! I appreciate your support and look forward to seeing you there.
Coming 2024: Rewilding Breathwork
The rewilding journey requires deeper awareness of our bodies—to feel the emotions, engage with the senses, and learn the language it speaks. It requires us to know through experience, not through logic or reason. Our breath is a powerful place to begin this work and I am excited to share a tool that has helped me stay rooted in the present and grow my capacity for navigating the complexity of our world. More to come!
ABOUT BGCL Podcast:
Black Girl Country Living Podcast explores how we create meaningful lives through healing, unlearning, and connecting to nature. Listen in for ideas on finding ourselves, reclaiming Earth wisdom, building community, and more.
Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackgirl.countryliving/
Subscribe to the magazine: bgcl.substack.com
Inquiries and more about BGCL: https://www.blackgirlcountryliving.com/
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bgcl.substack.com
An exciting announcement: Rewilding Coaching is here!
Over the last several years, developing a relationship with nature has helped me to get clear about what is important to me and go after those things unapologetically.
It has asked me again and again in a world that is literally burning--what am I willing to stand for.
After years of writing and processing this journey, I am so honored to offer a space where other women can find healing, connection and transformation by connecting with nature.
A relationship to nature has made me a better mother to my kids, a more collaborative partner to my husband, and less critical voice towards myself. It has helped me to take greater accountability in my life, build trust for my own decision-making, and to believe that a different way is possible for all of us.
And now it is your turn to expand your life through lessons from nature.
I have 2 openings for 1:1 Rewilding Coaching this fall. During our time together, you will have support and resources to help you to slow down, get clear on what matters most to you, and deepen your connection to those things.
If you feel ready and excited to work with me, applications are open thru October 14th.
Rewilding Coaching --> Apply Now!
Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackgirl.countryliving/
Subscribe to the newsletter: bgcl.substack.com
Learn more about BGCL: https://www.blackgirlcountryliving.com/
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bgcl.substack.com
Hello Wild One,
Where do you find belonging? Is it something that is within us or something that we find outside of ourselves? This month, we explore where we find it and how nature offers us spaces of belonging. We discuss how communities amplify belonging so more people can feel that sense of deep connection.
On the episode today, you will hear:
-
An evolving understanding of belonging in Words on Rewilding.
-
A conversation with Samad Hinton about creating communities of belonging outdoors.
-
Wrap-up this season of the BGCL podcast and a hint at what is coming next.
Get more on these topics in the Belonging Edition of the BGCL Magazine.
Guest today:
- Samad Hinton: Check out BLK Beetles on Instagram or join the online community for virtual wellness events.
Keep the good vibes going with the BGCL monthly playlist curated byUdie Chima:
ABOUT BGCL Podcast:
Black Girl Country Living Podcast explores nature as a way to connect to ourselves, community, and the living world. Each month we dive into a new theme with stories and interviews that center the perspectives and experiences of people of color.
We are a collective on a journey to find healing in nature and discover how the outside can guide us inward. Join us each moth for thoughtful conversations, new perspectives, and fresh insights on how to rewild.
-
Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackgirl.countryliving/
-
Subscribe to the magazine: bgcl.substack.com
-
Inquiries and more about BGCL: https://www.blackgirlcountryliving.com/
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bgcl.substack.com
What is essential in your life?
This month, we are weighing what we need to live and what makes life worth living. These essential reminders are all around us, from the soil under our feet to the possessions in our home. Nature is taking us back to the basics and giving us some fundamental lessons on life.
On the episode today, you will hear:
-
What ducks taught be about care in Words on Rewilding
-
A Kith Card from sustainability blogger and minimalist (Antónia Mussache on instagram and blog)
-
A chat with a soil scientist on the brilliance of soil (Jules on Instagram and YouTube)
Guests today:
-
Antónia Mussache—instagram and blog
-
Jules—instagram and YouTube
Get the Essential Playlist on Spotify!
ABOUT BGCL Podcast:
Black Girl Country Living Podcast explores nature as a way to connect to ourselves, community, and the living world. Each month we dive into a new theme with stories and interviews that center the perspectives and experiences of people of color.
We are a collective on a journey to find healing in nature and discover how the outside can guide us inward. Join us each moth for thoughtful conversations, new perspectives, and fresh insights on how to rewild.
-
Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackgirl.countryliving/
-
Subscribe to the magazine: bgcl.substack.com
-
Inquiries and more about BGCL: https://www.blackgirlcountryliving.com/
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bgcl.substack.com
Spring is upon us and this month we are celebrating LIGHT.
Light draws us out of darkness, expands our awareness, and guides us into new edges of ourselves. This month, light brings us lessons on vulnerability, spiritual callings, love, and more.
On the episode today, you will hear:
-
A note from the editor on light inspiring a step into the unknown
-
A Kith Card from a nature photographer who found his calling in light
-
A chat with a friend about love as a form of light and where we find it in nature
-
Rewilding Experiences: Rewilding Circle waitlist is now open to BIPOC women who want to learn to return home to themselves with nature.
Guests today:
-
Javaris Johnson on Instagram
-
Amina Laela on Instagram and Muvaland Beach
ABOUT BGCL Podcast:
Black Girl Country Living Podcast explores nature as a way to connect to ourselves, community, and the living world. Each month we dive into a new theme with stories and interviews that center the perspectives and experiences of people of color.
We are a collective on a journey to find healing in nature and discover how the outside can guide us inward. Join us each moth for thoughtful conversations, new perspectives, and fresh insights on how to rewild.
-
Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackgirl.countryliving/
-
Subscribe to the magazine: bgcl.substack.com
-
Inquiries and more about BGCL: https://www.blackgirlcountryliving.com/
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bgcl.substack.com
Let's step out into nature and see what wisdom she can share about FREEDOM.
Freedom is something that most of us take for granted, but we rarely stop to think about what it really means. Where it comes from and the many forms that it can take. This month we are taking in lessons that nature has to teach us about freedom.
On the episode today, you will hear:
-
My note to you about trees, loss, and freedom
-
A Kith Card from multi-generational farmer and freedom on the land
-
A chat with a friend about Harriet Tubman and her brilliance
-
An update on our first Rewilding Experience and what’s coming next
Be sure to get the BGCL VIBES playlist this month and go deeper into the theme of freedom.
Guests today:
-
Bethaney Wilkinson of A More Beautiful Way
-
Jocelyn Rice of Black Earth United
ABOUT BGCL:
Black Girl Country Living Podcast explores nature as a way to connect to ourselves, community, and the living world. Each month we dive into a new theme with stories and interviews that center the perspectives and experiences of people of color.
We are a collective on a journey to find healing in nature and discover how the outside can guide us inward. If you already grab a cup of tea. Take a deep breath to ground yourself in this moment and let's rewild.
Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackgirl.countryliving/
Subscribe to the magazine: bgcl.substack.com
Learn more about BGCL: https://www.blackgirlcountryliving.com/
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bgcl.substack.com
It’s official: 2023 is the year of slowness and moving with intention. This month, I explore how these ideas shows up in the ways we care for ourselves, each other, and our environment. I welcome friends and family to discuss music, slow activism, and more.
-
BGCL Vibes Playlist
-
Follow on IG
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bgcl.substack.com
BGCL Magazine is officially out in the world and is marking some changes for the podcast. The podcast will provide an audio experience to bring the stories and ideas in the magazine to life.
This week, you are getting a preview of the podcast with the Letter from the Editor section. Check back next week for the full audio experience.
- Subscribe to the magazine: https://bgcl.substack.com/
- Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackgirl.countryliving/
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bgcl.substack.com
This time of year can hectic with all the to-dos and events. But this year, let's try something different. No need to exhaust ourselves now, only to make pledges of self-care in a few weeks. Listen for some ideas on how to rewild this season.
- Subscribe to the newsletter: https://bgcl.substack.com/
- Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackgirl.countryliving/
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bgcl.substack.com
Rewilding began as an idea of going back to nature but this last year has given me a new perspective. Through highs and lows, this year have offered some insight on where to look to find my own nature. It has also inspired a new way of thinking about this space.
Listen and subscribe for the full story.
Subscribe to the newsletter: https://bgcl.substack.com/
Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackgirl.countryliving/
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bgcl.substack.com
What is awe and why is it so powerful in helping us see the world differently?
Awe is more than just a moment of wonder. It is a moment of deep connection and understanding of ourselves and the world.
We can experience awe at the peak of a mountain and we can find it in mundane tasks when we dare to be curious.
Finding it is important because it allows us to step away from our worries and be in the present.
Listen and subscribe for the full story.
Subscribe to the newsletter: https://bgcl.substack.com/
Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackgirl.countryliving/
Anyone else feel lost when it comes to self care? It's not just you.
Many of us are having to relearn what it means to care for ourselves.
It is not something that we have to earn and it does not have to cost money.
However, It is something we must learn to prioritize in order to provide love and support to others around us.
Listen and subscribe for the full story.
Subscribe to the newsletter: https://bgcl.substack.com/
Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackgirl.countryliving/
Getting reacquainted with nature has been transformational, and there is a need for more people who look like me to experience the same acceptance and healing.
I am excited to preparing to Rewilding Workshops and want your help to make them a success. These will be nature-based experiences that center rest, care, and healing of BIPOC folks.
I would LOVE your help in the following areas:
- Outdoor venues: I am prioritizing venues that have expressed values around social justice work to ensure safe spaces for participants, such as Whidbey Institute. Are there other outdoor venues in the PNW that meet this bar?
- Collaborators: I want to work with other BIPOC folks who are looking at healing through lots of different lenses: art, history, movement, food, joy, etc. Are there BIPOC people you follow who would be a great fit for these workshops?
- Similar concepts: When it comes to creating spaces of healing, I believe in collaboration, not competition. Are there other people you know of that are already doing this work that I should check out?
Email me directly (hello@blackgirlcountryliving.com) or send me a message on IG with people / places that I should know about.
Subscribe to the newsletter: https://bgcl.substack.com/
Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackgirl.countryliving/
As I look around at my family and friends in various states of new normal, I see one common thread: everyone is damn tired.
We need rest and renewal, but we are bound to systems that demand peak productivity and exponential growth.
This week, I find unexpected inspiration for rest in a spiritual text and encourage you to make space for rest in your own lives.
Listen and subscribe for the full story.
Subscribe to the newsletter: https://bgcl.substack.com/
Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackgirl.countryliving/
What does it feel like to share a meal? What memories do you have of shared meals with your family?
Making space for regular meals together is challenging in our modern world. It is a practice that I have started and stopped many times through the years.
After moving to the country and having my second kiddo, I have made it a priority to continue this tradition that was started many generations ago.
Listen and subscribe for the full story.
Subscribe to the newsletter: https://bgcl.substack.com/
Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackgirl.countryliving/
Making new friends in adulthood is no picnic. When I moved to the country, I knew I wanted to have good friends nearby, but wasn't sure I could do the work.
Not only did I manage to make it happen, I found friends who believe in creating a different future centered around food access and communities of care.
Listen, subscribe, and leave a review.
Subscribe to the newsletter: https://bgcl.substack.com/
Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackgirl.countryliving/
Being seen is a radical act that opens us up to the possibility of true connection with ourselves, other people, and all life on earth.
Not only do we want to feel seen, we need it in order to feel a sense of belonging and purpose. However, finding spaces where we are seen seem to be all too rare these days, but maybe we are simply looking in the wrong places.
Subscribe to the newsletter: https://bgcl.substack.com/
Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackgirl.countryliving/