Don’t be afraid to Talk - Podcast with James Lumumba

Our latest episode is a testament to the strength of human will and the power of transformation. I sat down with an awe-inspiring guest, Nick who candidly shared his turbulent journey, from wrestling with alcohol addiction to championing mental health awareness. Nick’s story, riddled with piercing highs and soul-crushing lows, shines a light on the importance of self-discipline and the valor in 'parenting ourselves'. His story is a rally cry for all who are trapped in silent battles, encouraging them to embrace their struggles and use them as a stepping stone to redemption.   Follow: Nick Jonsson INSTAGRAM: ⁠ https://www.instagram.com/jonssonnick/ WEBSITE: https://www.nickjonsson.com/ FACEBOOK: ⁠ https://www.facebook.com/jonsson.nick YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/NickJonsson WEBSITE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-jonsson/?originalSubdomain=sg If you would like to share your story and help inspire others or have a perspective on Mental Health, please contact me for our conversation. Follow The Show: INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/dontbeafraidtotalk/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/Dontbeafraidtotalk/ Your Mental Health information line - Ireland Mental Health Ireland: 01 284 1166 Pieta House: 1800 247 247 Suicide or Survive (SOS):  01 272 2158 Aware: 1800 80 48 48 Samaritans: 116 123 LGBT Ireland: 1800 929 539

Psychotherapist Hilary Jacobs Hendel discusses the Change Triangle, recognizing and processing emotions, and the impact of childhood experiences on emotional development. She emphasizes the need to validate and experience core emotions, debunking the idea that they are negative. The conversation highlights the transformative power of understanding and embracing emotions and the importance of creating a safe space for them.

Dr. Tim van Wanrooij is a Chartered Counselling Psychologist based in Dublin. He specializes in working with individuals and couples, helping them navigate their emotions and relationships. Dr. Tim has a deep understanding of the complexities of human emotions and the impact they have on our relationships and overall well-being. In this episode, James and Dr. Tim van Wanrooij delve into the complexities of relationships and emotions. They emphasize the significance of understanding the deeper issues that underlie conflicts between couples, rather than focusing solely on practical matters. The conversation explores why couples often find themselves trapped in repetitive arguments and how emotion-focused therapy can help individuals identify and express their underlying emotions. They also discuss effective strategies for navigating difficult conversations and uncovering the root causes of pain. Dr. Tim highlights the use of Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) for both couples and individuals. The episode concludes with insights on breaking the cycle of conflict in relationships and managing relationships where one partner pursues while the other withdraws. Throughout the discussion, Dr. Tim emphasizes the importance of taking emotional risks, being vulnerable, and individualizing couples to foster successful conversations. Follow Dr Tim van Wanrooij INSTAGRAM: ttps://www.instagram.com/timpsychology/ WEBSITE: https://www.timpsychology.com/ FACEBOOK: ⁠ https://www.facebook.com/TimPsychology YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPBNsclByB9yaHXgUSkDrfg If you would like to share your story and help inspire others or have a perspective on Mental Health, please contact me for our conversation. Follow The Show: INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/dontbeafraidtotalk/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/Dontbeafraidtotalk/ Your Mental Health information line - Ireland Mental Health Ireland: 01 284 1166 Pieta House: 1800 247 247 Suicide or Survive (SOS):  01 272 2158 Aware: 1800 80 48 48 Samaritans: 116 123 LGBT Ireland: 1800 929 539

In this episode, James invites Rob, a former Air Force aviator with 25 years of experience, who discusses his journey from serving in uniform to battling and overcoming PTSD. Rob shares deeply personal experiences such as managing guilt commonly associated with combat veterans and his rock-bottom moments fuelled by PTSD. He highlights the power of acceptance and the immense benefit of open communication for those suffering from PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Rob also delves into how his faith and family support have been pivotal in his healing process and transformation. This is a heartfelt conversation that underscores the importance of mental health, faith, and innovation in transforming lives. Follow Rob Carranza: WEBSITE: https://glightleaders.com/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/robugcdad/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RobCLeadership   If you would like to share your story and help inspire others or have a perspective on Mental Health, please contact me for our conversation. Follow The Show: INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/dontbeafraidtotalk/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/Dontbeafraidtotalk/ WEBSITE: https://www.podpage.com/dontbeafraidtotalkpodcast/   Your Mental Health information line - Ireland Mental Health Ireland: 01 284 1166 Pieta House: 1800 247 247 Suicide or Survive (SOS):  01 272 2158 Aware: 1800 80 48 48 Samaritans: 116 123 LGBT Ireland: 1800 929 539

Unlock the secret to thriving relationships as you tune in to our enlightening conversation with Shane, an expert speaker, educator, and marriage and family therapist. Get ready for a deep dive into the art of communication, something we often overlook but it plays a crucial role in the health of our relationships. Shane sprinkles the conversation with some practical advice on expressing feelings without blame, judgement, and the art of giving feedback in a loving and respectful manner. Expect to understand the roadblocks that hinder good communication and learn to identify signs of poor communication skills in your partner. Together with Shane, we spotlight the importance of self-awareness, unravel how childhood socialization influences our relationships, and discuss how you, as a couple, can dismantle harmful patterns. We also expose the deeper, concealed issues couples often argue about, masked by superficial bickering. In the latter part of our conversation, we zero in on the role of listening, a vital, yet often neglected part of communication. Join us as we share valuable tips on mirroring, acceptance of reality, and validation in a relationship. You'll also learn about the four steps of the feedback wheel, a practical communication framework, and how a regular gratitude practice can fortify your bond. Shane throws light on the concept of mirror neurons and their impact on mutual emotional states. Join us as we decode the complexities of couple's communication in this riveting conversation with Shane. Follow Shane Birkel INSTAGRAM: ⁠ https://www.instagram.com/shanebirkel/ WEBSITE: https://www.couplestherapistcouch.com/ FACEBOOK: ⁠ https://www.facebook.com/shanebirkel1/ YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuKXyF_Zzx0h8ZehLpoUQcg   If you would like to share your story and help inspire others or have a perspective on Mental Health, please contact me for our conversation. Follow The Show: INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/dontbeafraidtotalk/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/Dontbeafraidtotalk/   Your Mental Health information line - Ireland Mental Health Ireland: 01 284 1166 Pieta House: 1800 247 247 Suicide or Survive (SOS):  01 272 2158 Aware: 1800 80 48 48 Samaritans: 116 123 LGBT Ireland: 1800 929 539

In this podcast episode, Grace Alice, an award-winning sex and intimacy specialist from Kerry, Ireland, discusses her journey to becoming a sex educator. In this episode we discuss contents from her book SEX Education and touch on topics such as CONSENT – REPRODUCTION – PROTECTION – RELATIONSHIPS. Join the conversation and learn how to approach discussions about sex and intimacy with warmth, compassion, and acceptance. Let's break the cycle of silence together! Follow Grace Alice INSTAGRAM: ⁠ https://www.instagram.com/grace_alice_oshea/ WEBSITE: https://gracealice.com/ FACEBOOK: ⁠ https://www.facebook.com/gracealiceoshea SEX EDUCATION BOOK: https://sexualhealthwest.ie/product/sex-educated-by-grace-alice-oshea/   If you would like to share your story and help inspire others or have a perspective on Mental Health, please contact me for our conversation. Follow The Show: INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/dontbeafraidtotalk/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/Dontbeafraidtotalk/ Your Mental Health information line - Ireland Mental Health Ireland: 01 284 1166 Pieta House: 1800 247 247 Suicide or Survive (SOS):  01 272 2158 Aware: 1800 80 48 48 Samaritans: 116 123 LGBT Ireland: 1800 929 539

Join us as we explore the fascinating topic of dynamic family roles with the esteemed Dr. Amara, a clinical psychologist with a decade-long experience in family and couples therapy. Our conversation centers around the influence of family history and generational patterns on an individual's mental health, challenging the notion that these issues are purely individual. Listen in as we discuss the theories of transgenerational, multigenerational, and intergenerational therapy and how these frameworks can help us unravel the complex dynamics of family roles and their impacts on our lives. We take a closer look at the impacts of various family roles, especially on children from immigrant families. Hear us unpack the effects of roles such as the golden child, the scapegoat, the family clown, and the nurturer, and how gender and traditional family dynamics can influence these roles. We also examine the potential pitfalls of high and inflexible expectations placed on children and the challenges they face in trying to fulfill their parents' aspirations. Further into the episode, we investigate how childhood roles impact our adult relationships. Our discussion dives into how attachment styles can be shaped by family dynamics and how being labeled by parents can influence an individual's self-concept. Additionally, we explore the concept of cycle breakers and the possibility of staying connected to the family system without compromising personal needs and expectations. Finally, we provide some insights on different therapy modalities, signs of progress, and how to choose the right therapist. So, join us on this enriching journey as we shed light on these complex dynamics and hopefully, provide you with some useful insights to navigate your own relationships and family roles. Follow Dr. Ammara Khalid, Psy.D: WEBSITE: https://www.riapsychologicalservices.com/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ammarakhalid/ If you would like to share your story and help inspire others or have a perspective on Mental Health, please contact me for our conversation. Follow The Show: INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/dontbeafraidtotalk/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/Dontbeafraidtotalk/ WEBSITE: https://www.podpage.com/dontbeafraidtotalkpodcast/   Your Mental Health information line - Ireland Mental Health Ireland: 01 284 1166 Pieta House: 1800 247 247 Suicide or Survive (SOS):  01 272 2158 Aware: 1800 80 48 48 Samaritans: 116 123 LGBT Ireland: 1800 929 539

Can you imagine growing up feeling like an outsider within your own family? This is the all-too-real reality our guest David faced on a rural farm in Cork, Ireland. This episode sheds light on David's journey - from the raw and emotional experiences he encountered growing up in a toxic family environment to finding an escape route and building a better life for himself. David takes us on a journey of the harsh realities he faced growing up under a manipulative and psychologically abusive father. He was not just a victim of this toxic environment but also a survivor who managed to navigate his way through the maze of his abusive past. With a brave heart and a resilient spirit, David shares the trials and tribulations he faced as he worked tirelessly to break the cycle of abuse, creating a healthier and happier life for himself and his children. Listen to David's emotional narrative on confronting his father's mixed messages, the passive-aggressive tactics he faced, and the disturbing family dynamics. Throughout this episode, David's courage shines as he recounts his journey from being controlled to taking control - from a farm in Cork to a support group on Facebook. Join us and gain insight into David's struggle in seeking support and working towards forgiveness. This is not just a conversation about his past, but a testament to his transformation. A story of resilience, courage, and hope. Follow David Lynch: INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/david_lynch1975/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/groups/127194031182412/   If you would like to share your story and help inspire others or have a perspective on Mental Health, please contact me for our conversation. Follow The Show: INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/dontbeafraidtotalk/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/Dontbeafraidtotalk/ WEBSITE: https://www.podpage.com/dontbeafraidtotalkpodcast/   Your Mental Health information line - Ireland Mental Health Ireland: 01 284 1166 Pieta House: 1800 247 247 Suicide or Survive (SOS):  01 272 2158 Aware: 1800 80 48 48 Samaritans: 116 123 LGBT Ireland: 1800 929 539

Join me as I welcome Kat, an intimacy therapist and nervous system specialist for a thought-provoking conversation on emotional intimacy. Kat offers deep insights into how our emotional experiences are stored in our nervous system and how past experiences can continue to affect us if left unprocessed. Listen in as we explore the fascinating concept of attraction and how it is influenced by our past experiences. We discuss how we are often attracted to the comforting qualities we recognize from our parents, and how this can lead to discomfort when we encounter a similar dynamic. We also discuss the human tendency to bottle up emotions instead of expressing them like animals and children, and how this energy can be moved in healthier ways. We conclude that meeting someone who triggers us is not necessarily bad, but rather an opportunity for personal growth. Lastly, we dive into the importance of defining love and understanding what love looks like to us personally. Kat shares practical tips on how to build emotional intimacy and overcome shame, emphasizing the importance of understanding your own emotional needs to develop trust in your relationships. We wrap up the conversation by examining the role of fun activities and hobbies in leading a fulfilling life. Follow Katherine Smailis INSTAGRAM: ⁠ https://www.instagram.com/kat_intimacytherapist/ WEBSITE: ⁠https://www.intimacyacademy.org/ ⁠TIKTOK: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@kat_intimacytherapist YOUTUBE: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBj0_d8G3_2d8Ie5f6kv9lQ If you would like to share your story and help inspire others or have a perspective on Mental Health, please contact me for our conversation. Follow The Show: INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/dontbeafraidtotalk/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/Dontbeafraidtotalk/ WEBSITE: https://www.podpage.com/dontbeafraidtotalkpodcast/   Your Mental Health information line - Ireland Mental Health Ireland: 01 284 1166 Pieta House: 1800 247 247 Suicide or Survive (SOS):  01 272 2158 Aware: 1800 80 48 48 Samaritans: 116 123 LGBT Ireland: 1800 929 539

Welcome to a powerful and raw conversation with the courageous Eden Robinson, who shares her story of overcoming childhood trauma and navigating her own sexual identity. Eden's journey takes us through the emotional and verbal abuse she endured from her mother, her father's neglect, and her mother's complicated relationship which impacted her sense of self, safety, and understanding of her sexuality. Through Eden's brave and honest storytelling, we explore the lasting effects of her parent's behavior and the path she's taken to heal and find her true identity. In our discussion, we dive into Eden's coming out as a lesbian, her experience with therapy, and the significance of representation in media. The influence of Kate McKinnon's one-woman play on Eden's understanding of her sexuality shines a light on the importance of having relatable role models. As Eden shares her struggles with internalized shame, parental homophobia, and finding strength amidst adversity, we learn valuable insights about overcoming life's obstacles and embracing our authentic selves. Join us in this emotional and inspiring episode, where we delve into healing from abusive parents, the role therapy and healthy role models have played in Eden's journey, and how she's managed to find happiness and overcome intrusive thoughts. You won't want to miss this heartfelt conversation, as Eden's story can provide hope and understanding for those facing their own challenges in life after trauma and discovering their true identity. Follow Eden Robinson INSTAGRAM: ⁠ https://www.instagram.com/writing.eden/ ⁠BOOK: ⁠ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BRQNZGRF?ref_=pe_3052080_276849420 If you would like to share your story and help inspire others or have a perspective on Mental Health, please contact me for our conversation. Follow The Show: INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/dontbeafraidtotalk/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/Dontbeafraidtotalk/ WEBSITE: https://www.podpage.com/dontbeafraidtotalkpodcast/   Your Mental Health information line - Ireland Mental Health Ireland: 01 284 1166 Pieta House: 1800 247 247 Suicide or Survive (SOS):  01 272 2158 Aware: 1800 80 48 48 Samaritans: 116 123 LGBT Ireland: 1800 929 539