

Don’t be afraid to Talk - Podcast with James Lumumba
James Lumumba
I believe if we are going to affect the change we must go back to the very basics, which for me, in essence, is Conversation. Talking and listening to one another is KEY for growth and with these conversations, I hope our stories will bring us together and draw inspiration from one another. This podcast aims to get you talking about your Mental Health, topics such as Mental and Physical Health, Suicidal Thoughts, Trauma, Recovery, and well-being, We hope to raise awareness and offer you a different perspective and mindset or an idea that could inspire you.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 12, 2024 • 1h 3min
A Journey Through IFS with Tammy Sollenberger
In this episode of Ask the Therapist, Tammy, a clinical mental health counselor and psychotherapist, discusses her journey with managing anxiety. She shares her experience of calming her anxious part, highlighting the importance of self-care and self-compassion. Tammy also talks about her background as a therapist practicing internal family systems therapy, which she further explores in her podcast and book, "The One Inside."
Hightlights:
Tammy's Background and IFS Therapy
Mapping out your systems
Working with Exiles and Inner Healing
Parts that manage our lives
Uncomfortable feelings with self
Inner Conversation with Child Parts
Follow Tammy Sollenberger
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ifs.tammy/
WEBSITE: https://tammysollenberger.com/
FACEBOOK: ttps://www.facebook.com/theoneinsideIFS
YOUTUBE: ttps://www.youtube.com/@theoneinsidepodcast
TWITTER: https://twitter.com/ifstammy
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

Mar 17, 2024 • 1h 10min
Finding Beauty in Differences: Lauren's Journey with Disability
What has breathwork done for you?
This podcast features an interview with Lauren, a
trauma-informed breathwork facilitator from Scotland. Lauren shares her journey
and experiences, including her childhood, living with a physical disability
caused by an autoimmune response as a result of a viral infection. She also
discusses the loss of her parents and her journey of self-parenting.
Shownotes:
00:03:46 Childhood shaped by disability.
00:12:43 The power of resilience.
00:14:49 Challenging negative perceptions of disability.
00:25:49 Discrimination against disabled people.
00:30:15 Grief can shape our identities.
00:44:11 Awareness and education are crucial.
00:44:18 Importance of self-education and healing.
00:52:11 Breathwork brings healing and transformation.
01:03:08 Start believing in yourself.
01:06:53 Self-love is an act of defiance.
Follow Lauren Stewart
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/darlin_breathe/
WEBSITE: https://www.darlinbreathe.com/
LINKTR: https://linktr.ee/EllStu
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

Mar 3, 2024 • 1h 5min
Beyond the Clinic with Padraig Danaher
How occupational therapy can help people?
Padraig, a mental health occupational therapist based in
Cork. Padraig specializes in trauma, anxiety, depression, self-harm, and eating
disorders, working with both teenagers and adults. He has a background in
social care and holds a master's degree in positive psychology and coaching.
Chapters:
Definition of occupational therapy and its focus on function
Importance of evidence-based practice in occupational
therapy
Personalized interventions and goal-setting in occupational
therapy
Building relationships with clients and becoming part of
their families
Involvement in community work and delivering training
Padraig also discusses the use of practical strategies and
interventions tailored to each individual's needs. He highlights the
significance of building a strong therapeutic relationship with clients and the
importance of understanding their emotions and behaviours.
Follow Padraig Danaher
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/the_ot_coach_/WEBSITE: https://www.theotcoach.ie/LINKEDIN:https://www.linkedin.com/in/padraig-danaher/
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

Feb 18, 2024 • 48min
Executive's Journey from Addiction to Advocacy with Nick Jonsson
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

Feb 4, 2024 • 1h 5min
It's Not Always Depression with Hilary Jacobs Hendel
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.

Nov 5, 2023 • 1h 11min
Breaking the Cycle of Conflict in Relationships with Dr Tim van Wanrooij
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

Oct 15, 2023 • 1h 3min
PTSD – Life after the War with Rob Carranza
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

Oct 1, 2023 • 57min
Communicating in a Relationship with Shane Birkel
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

Sep 10, 2023 • 1h 36min
SEX Education with Grace Alice
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

Aug 27, 2023 • 50min
Dynamic Family Roles with Dr. Ammara Khalid, Psy.D
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