Mind Ya Mental Podcast

The conversation explores the importance of friendships and the shifts that can occur within them. Minaa B discusses the concept of growing together in friendships and the need for new language and tools to navigate these relationships. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing the spectrum of friendships and understanding that some friendships may be seasonal or evolve into acquaintanceships. Minaa B also addresses signs of struggling friendships, the role of reciprocity, and the need for honest communication and accountability. The conversation highlights the need to grieve and honor the shifts and endings that can occur in friendships. In this conversation, Dr. Raquel Martin and Minaa B discuss the complexities of friendships and offer insights on how to navigate them. They emphasize the importance of doing internal work and being reflective in order to maintain healthy friendships. They also discuss the need for boundaries and discernment when receiving feedback from friends. The conversation highlights the significance of communication, active listening, and understanding each other's needs. They also touch on the topics of grief, forgiveness, and the role of therapy in supporting friendships. Takeaways Friendships can evolve and shift over time, and it's important to recognize and honor these changes. Understanding the spectrum of friendships helps in managing expectations and discerning the role of each person in your life. Reciprocity and honest communication are key in maintaining healthy friendships. Grieving the shifts and endings in friendships is a normal and necessary part of the process. Being open to feedback and self-reflection is crucial for personal growth within friendships. Doing internal work and being reflective is crucial for maintaining healthy friendships. Bio Minaa B.® MSW, LMSW, is a licensed social worker, mental health educator, and author of "Owning Our Struggles." With a background in psychotherapy specializing in anxiety, depression, and trauma, she has worked extensively in early childhood programs, private practice, and community mental health settings following her graduate studies at New York University. As the founder of Minaa B. Consulting and a wellness coach, Minaa focuses on helping organizations cultivate psychological safety. She passionately explores the intersection of mental health and social justice, guiding individuals to build self-efficacy and resilience through community care. Her approach highlights the transformative power of relationships in both personal growth and societal change. Minaa's expertise has garnered recognition from prominent media outlets such as Red Table Talk, Peace of Mind With Taraji, Today.com, BBC, Oprah Daily, and more. She contributes to the Mental Health Advisory Committee at Wondermind, co-founded by Selena Gomez, and serves as a relationship expert for eharmony. Minaa also hosts the enlightening podcast "Mindful With Minaa." Minaa B. continues to shape the landscape of mental health and wellness from her base in New York City, where she resides and continues her impactful work.

In this conversation, Dr. Raquel Martin interviews Francesca Ramsey, discussing topics such as social justice, online harassment, and content creation. They touch on the importance of accredited voices in social justice conversations and the challenges of being attacked online. They also discuss the impact of social media fame and the need for boundaries and privacy. The conversation explores the power of representation and the diversity of the Black experience in media. Overall, the conversation highlights the complexities and nuances of navigating the online world and using platforms for positive change. The conversation explores the challenges and decision-making processes involved in creative work, including the difficulty of getting stories out there and the pressure to conform to commercial interests. The importance of staying true to one's values and mission is emphasized, as well as the need to navigate the complexities of the industry. The role of therapy in managing anxiety, imposter syndrome, and negative thought patterns is discussed. The conversation also touches on the impact of social media, the concept of resistance fatigue, and the need for mental health support in creative and activist spaces. In this conversation, Franchesca and Dr. Raquel Martin discuss the challenges of public speaking, dealing with difficult emotions, and maintaining friendships. They touch on topics such as the emotional toll of public speaking, the importance of empathy, the pressure to conform in the entertainment industry, and the value of investing in friendships. Franchesca shares personal experiences and insights, highlighting the need for self-care and authenticity. The conversation emphasizes the importance of being kind to oneself and others, and the power of genuine connections. Takeaways Accredited voices are important in social justice conversations. Online harassment can be mentally and emotionally challenging. Social media fame comes with both benefits and drawbacks. Setting boundaries and maintaining privacy is crucial in the online world. Representation and diversity in media are essential for the Black experience. Getting stories out there and making a living from creative work can be challenging and involves navigating commercial interests Bio Franchesca "Chescaleigh'' Ramsey is a multifaceted talent whose career spans acting, writing, public speaking, and digital content creation. She gained prominence as the creator and star of the award-winning web series MTV Decoded, where she fearlessly tackles social issues with humor and insight. Franchesca's impact extends beyond her web series; she served as a writer and correspondent for Comedy Central's The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore, contributing her unique perspective to late-night television. Franchesca's debut book, "Well That Escalated Quickly," became a cultural phenomenon, earning a nomination for an NAACP award and landing on Amazon's list of best books in 2018. Her viral video "Sh*t White Girls Say…to Black Girls" catapulted her into the spotlight, amassing over 11 million views and solidifying her reputation as a thought leader on race, identity, and social justice. Currently, Franchesca co-hosts the engaging podcast "Lemme Fix It!" alongside De'lon Grant, exploring topics ranging from personal development to societal challenges. She also contributes as a writer and co-producer for the iCarly reboot on Paramount and has made notable guest appearances on NBC's Superstore. In 2024, Franchesca achieved a significant milestone when her debut feature film was selected for the prestigious Sundance fellowship program, highlighting her growing influence in the film industry. With nearly two decades of experience in digital media and over a decade in television and film, Franchesca excels not only as a creative force but also as a sought-after public speaker and consultant. She engages audiences with expertise in content creation, social media strategy, identity exploration, and the power of storytelling. Franchesca "Chescaleigh" Ramsey continues to inspire and provoke thoughtful conversations through her work, demonstrating a commitment to using her platform to promote inclusivity, representation, and meaningful dialogue in entertainment and beyond.

Dr. Kojo Sarfo, a mental health nurse practitioner known for his engaging ADHD and mental health content, dives into the challenges of late ADHD diagnoses. He highlights the frustration of missed opportunities and the grieving process that can follow. The importance of clear, relatable mental health education is emphasized, alongside common misconceptions surrounding ADHD—like the myth that people grow out of it. Joining him is Dr. Raquel Martin, a neuropsychologist, who discusses generational stigma and the value of reliable, accessible mental health resources.

Tiffany Aliche, known as The Budgetnista, is a celebrated personal finance educator and author of the bestseller 'Get Good With Money.' In this discussion, she opens up about the discomfort surrounding money matters, particularly in the Black community. Tiffany shares her journey from teacher to financial advocate, revealing gaps in financial access she witnessed firsthand. She emphasizes the need for culturally relevant financial education, the importance of community support, and integrating financial wellness into emotional well-being.

In this conversation, Dr. Raquel Martin and Shahem Mclaurin discuss various topics related to mental health, therapy, and social media. They touch on the importance of centering marginalized voices, the challenges of being a therapist on social media, and the need for accessible mental health resources. They also talk about their personal journeys into the field of therapy and the role of astrology in their lives. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of humanizing therapy and making mental health information more accessible. In this conversation, Dr. Raquel Martin and Shahem Mclaurin discuss astrology and its role in therapy and mental health. They explore the use of astrology as a tool for self-exploration and identity, and how it can be integrated into therapy sessions. They also address the potential pitfalls of using astrology to justify poor behaviors and the importance of personal growth and reflection. The conversation touches on topics such as the influence of astrology on relationships and family dynamics, the intersection of astrology and emotions, and the need for balance and critical thinking when engaging with astrology. Overall, the conversation highlights the multifaceted nature of astrology and its potential benefits and limitations in the context of mental health. Takeaways Centering marginalized voices is crucial in the mental health space Being a therapist on social media comes with unique challenges Making mental health resources more accessible is important Personal experiences and hobbies can humanize therapists Astrology can be a fun and interesting way to explore personality traits Astrology can be a useful tool for self-exploration and identity assessment in therapy. Astrology should be used as a tool for introspection and exploration, rather than as a justification for poor behaviors. Bio Shahem ``5hahem" McLaurin, a dedicated Black, genderqueer licensed social worker and therapist originally from Baltimore, Maryland, now making a difference in Brooklyn, New York. With a passionate following of over 500,000, Shahem uses their platform to address critical social and mental health issues impacting people of color, individuals affected by patriarchy, and the LGBTQ+ community. Shahem is renowned for offering valuable mental health advice, support, and practical self-care tips, fostering a loyal community around their advocacy. Shahem's career is deeply rooted in serving underserved and marginalized communities. They have led impactful programs aimed at uplifting and empowering communities of color and youth, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to advancing social justice and equity, particularly in education and incarceration reform. Shahem's advocacy aims to create transformative change, advocating tirelessly for the rights and well-being of those most in need.

Dr. Thema and Dr. Raquel Martin discuss various topics including love, travel, and liberation psychology. They touch on the importance of context and the impact of systems of oppression on marginalized communities. They also highlight the need for mental health professionals to consider the soul and spiritual aspects of their clients. Dr. Thema explains that liberation psychology is about healing wounds, reimagining possibilities, and promoting post-traumatic growth. Dr. Raquel Martin shares her experience of wanting to focus on helping the Black community in her training and the pushback she received. In this conversation, Dr. Thema and Dr. Raquel Martin discuss the importance of integrating liberation psychology into therapy and mental health practices. They emphasize the need for therapists to be culturally competent and aware of the diverse experiences within the Black community. They also highlight the significance of authenticity and genuine connection in therapy, as well as the importance of honoring and validating clients' experiences of discrimination. Dr. Thema provides resources for further learning and encourages therapists to incorporate liberation psychology into their training and practice. Takeaways Liberation psychology is a holistic approach that considers the soul and spiritual aspects of individuals, going beyond just thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Context matters in mental health, including the impact of systems of oppression on marginalized communities. Liberation psychology aims to heal wounds, challenge internalized oppression, and reimagine possibilities for individuals, families, and communities. Mental health professionals should consider the unique experiences and needs of marginalized communities, such as the Black community, and provide culturally sensitive care. Post-traumatic growth and positive psychology are important aspects of liberati Bio Dr. Thema Bryant is a highly esteemed psychologist renowned for their leadership as the president of the American Psychological Association in 2023. They bring a wealth of expertise as a tenured professor of psychology at Pepperdine University, where their teaching and research intertwine psychology, theology, and the arts. Dr. Bryant's approach is deeply rooted in empowering individuals to navigate and transcend profound life challenges, particularly traumatic experiences. They are dedicated to recognizing and amplifying the inherent strengths of individuals within diverse cultural contexts, specializing in trauma recovery among ethnically marginalized groups, women, and individuals of faith. Dr. Bryant's influential work extends beyond academia, advocating for holistic healing and resilience through their profound understanding of psychological, spiritual, and cultural dimensions. You can find Dr. Bryant on Instagram and her website.

In this conversation, Dr. Raquel Martin interviews Minda Harts, author of 'The Memo: What Women of Color Need to Know to Secure a Seat at the Table.' They discuss the inspiration behind the book and the need for a resource specifically addressing the experiences of women of color in the workplace. They also explore the importance of mentorship and the different levels of mentorship that exist. The conversation touches on the challenges of transitioning from corporate work to entrepreneurship and the misconceptions surrounding entrepreneurship. They emphasize the need for transparency about the behind-the-scenes struggles and the importance of finding what works best for oneself. The conversation explores the importance of avoiding comparison, building a supportive squad, setting boundaries, and using one's voice to navigate the workplace and entrepreneurship as women of color. It emphasizes the need to embrace different definitions of success and to prioritize mental health and well-being. Takeaways The Memo addresses the specific experiences of women of color in the workplace and provides guidance on how to secure a seat at the table. Mentorship is important, but it's crucial to have a working relationship with mentors and manage expectations. Entrepreneurship is not the only path to success for women of color, and it's important to explore all options. The transition from corporate work to entrepreneurship can be challenging, and there are behind-the-scenes struggles that are often not discussed. Bio Minda Harts is an accomplished bestselling author, widely acclaimed for her transformative books including "The Memo: What Women of Color Need to Know to Secure a Seat at the Table," "Right Within: How to Heal from Racial Trauma in the Workplace," and "You Are More Than Magic," her influential YA debut. A highly sought-after speaker and thought leader, Minda delivers impactful insights on leadership, diversity, and management, addressing audiences at prestigious venues such as Nike, Google, JP Morgan, Aspen Ideas Festival, and Forbes Inclusion in The Workplace. She serves as an assistant professor at NYU's Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service and is the visionary founder of The Memo LLC, a pioneering company dedicated to empowering individuals through career development. Minda's commitment to equity and inclusion is underscored by her recognition as LinkedIn's #1 Top Voice for Equity in the Workplace in 2020, and her inclusion in Business Insider's prestigious list of the top 100 People Transforming Business in 2022. Her impactful influence extends through her weekly career podcast "Secure the Seat," where she fosters crucial conversations and shares invaluable advice. For more information on Minda Harts and her work, visit her website at www.mindaharts.com. Join the Movement: Dr. Martin invites listeners to become part of the Mind Ya Mental community, offering exclusive access to webinars, book clubs, podcasts, and a platform for connection and growth among like-minded individuals. You can follow Dr. Martin on Social Media at Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, and at her website www.raquelmartinphd.com

Dr. Marcus Mason, a licensed clinical professional counselor, specializes in therapy for black men and underserved demographics. He discusses the importance of creating safe spaces for black men in therapy and the challenges they face in seeking help. He emphasizes the need for effective communication and understanding in relationships, particularly between men and women. The conversation also touches on the impact of media portrayal on black love and the division it creates. Overall, the discussion highlights the importance of breaking down stereotypes and promoting mental health in the black community. The conversation explores the importance of social media in mental health and well-being, as well as the challenges faced by black men in relationships. Dr. Raquel Martin emphasizes the power of social media in providing representation and breaking down barriers in mental health. Marcus Mason agrees and highlights the need for mental health professionals who look like us and understand our experiences. They discuss the role of social media in therapy and the need for better utilization of this tool. They also delve into the theme of communication in relationships, particularly for black men, and the importance of setting boundaries and expectations. In this conversation, Dr. Raquel Martin and Marcus Mason discuss the importance of communication and advocacy in relationships, particularly for black men. They emphasize the need for open dialogue, expressing needs and boundaries, and actively listening to one another. They also highlight the lack of representation and resources for black men in mental health and society as a whole. The conversation concludes with practical tips for supporting men, such as creating a safe space, asking how to provide support, and recognizing the range of emotions men experience. Bio Dr. Marcus Mason, Ed.D, LCPC, NCC, is a respected Black male psychotherapist known for his impactful contributions at Minds In Motion Therapeutic Services. With a career dedicated to enhancing mental health, Marcus provides a wide range of psychological treatments and assessments to support a diverse clientele. His approach emphasizes creating lasting systemic change, particularly focused on empowering youth and adults through targeted therapeutic strategies. Marcus is deeply committed to fostering personal development and societal transformation, leveraging his expertise to promote psychological well-being and resilience within communities. Takeaways Creating safe spaces for black men in therapy is crucial for their mental health and well-being. Effective communication and understanding are key in building healthy relationships. Media portrayal of black love often perpetuates division and stereotypes. Breaking down stereotypes and promoting mental health in the black community is essential. Social media can be a powerful tool for mental health and well-being, providing representation and breaking down barriers. Black men often face challenges in relationships, including feeling isolated and not being able to express their emotions.

Summary In this episode, Dr. Raquel Martin and Bishop Joseph Warren Walker III discuss the intersection of faith, spirituality, and mental health. They address the stigma surrounding mental health in the Black community and within religious contexts. Bishop Walker emphasizes the importance of integrating therapy and faith to achieve holistic healing. They also discuss the need for leaders to prioritize mental health and create spaces for open conversations. The conversation highlights the significance of addressing the root causes of mental health issues and the role of therapy in facilitating healing. The conversation between Dr. Raquel Martin and Bishop Joseph Warren Walker, III explores the integration of theology and psychology in addressing mental health within the church. They discuss the importance of creating a culture within the congregation that promotes mental health awareness and provides resources for support. They also emphasize the need for partnerships and collaborations between mental health professionals and spiritual leaders to strengthen the church's ability to address mental health issues. The conversation highlights the significance of allowing space for grief and lamentation and the importance of questioning and seeking professional help when needed. Takeaways Spirituality and faith are central to mental well-being, particularly within the Black community. Stigma surrounding mental health in religious contexts can be attributed to erroneous theological teachings and a lack of understanding. Integrating therapy and faith is essential for holistic healing and addressing the root causes of mental health issues. Leaders in religious communities should prioritize mental health and create spaces for open conversations and support. Therapy is a valuable tool for addressing trauma and facilitating healing, and it should be embraced as part of the journey towards well-being. Develop a culture within the congregation that promotes mental health awareness and provides resources for support. Form partnerships and collaborations between mental health professionals and spiritual leaders to strengthen the church's ability to address mental health issues. Allow space for grief and lamentation, acknowledging the need for healing and support. Encourage questioning and seeking professional help when needed, recognizing that faith and intellectual curiosity can coexist. Bio Bishop Joseph W. Walker, III, stands as the esteemed senior leader of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Nashville, Tennessee, where he joyfully celebrates three decades of pastoral leadership. Hailing from Shreveport, Louisiana, Bishop Walker's academic journey includes a Bachelor of Arts degree from Southern University, followed by a Master of Divinity from Vanderbilt University and a Doctor of Ministry from Princeton Theological Seminary. In addition to his pastoral duties, Bishop Walker serves as the International Presiding Bishop of the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship and brings his visionary leadership to the Board of Trustees for Tennessee State University. A prolific author, speaker, and community advocate, he is renowned for his impactful ministry that spans both local and global initiatives. Bishop Walker's commitment to faith and education is mirrored in his role as a devoted husband to Dr. Stephaine Hale Walker, with whom he shares the joy of parenting two children. Join the Movement: Dr. Martin invites listeners to become part of the Mind Ya Mental community, offering exclusive access to webinars, book clubs, podcasts, and a platform for connection and growth among like-minded individuals. You can follow Dr. Martin on Social Media at Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, and at her website www.raquelmartinphd.com

Raquel Willis is an esteemed activist, journalist, and media strategist committed to advancing the liberation and rights of Black transgender individuals. As an executive producer with iHeartMedia's LGBTQ+ podcast network, Outspoken, she not only hosts the poignant podcast "Afterlives," which honors the lives of trans individuals lost to violence but also spearheads discussions on critical LGBTQ+ issues. Beyond her role in media, Raquel is celebrated for her literary contributions, including the impactful book "The Risk It Takes to Bloom: On Life and Liberation." Her career highlights encompass pivotal positions such as director of communications at the Ms. Foundation for Women and executive editor at Out magazine. A trailblazer in activism, Raquel co-founded the Transgender Week of Visibility and Action and serves on several influential boards dedicated to advocacy and policy reform. Her groundbreaking initiatives, such as the GLAAD Media Award-winning "Trans Obituaries Project" and the Gold-winning "The Trans Youth Town Hall," underscore her commitment to amplifying marginalized voices. Raquel's writing, known for its depth and insight, is featured across various publications, where she offers profound perspectives on gender equity, racial justice, and the intersections of identity. She continues to shape public discourse as a prominent thought leader, paving the way for greater understanding and acceptance within broader societal frameworks. Summary The conversation covers the topics of liberation, mental health care, gender, and Pride Month. It delves into the historical significance of Pride Month, the fight for equality, and the support of the LGBTQIA community. The discussion also addresses the intersectionality of queer liberation and Black liberation, as well as the impact of police brutality and over-criminalization. The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to the LGBTQ+ community, activism, allyship, mental health, and the importance of diverse narratives. It also delves into the concept of legacy and lineage within the Black community. Raquel Willis shares insights on elevating queer stories, the impact of violence, and the need for allyship in various institutions. Dr. Raquel Martin discusses the significance of individual legacy and the importance of embracing one's identity. Takeaways Liberation encompasses the freeing of individuals from restrictive notions of identity under systems of oppression. The fight for queer liberation is intertwined with the fight for Black liberation and addresses issues of police brutality and over-criminalization. Pride Month has historical significance tied to the Stonewall riots, highlighting the ongoing struggle for equality and recognition. Support for the LGBTQIA community extends beyond Pride Month and involves addressing issues such as decriminalization of sex work and police brutality. The conversation emphasizes the intersectionality of gender, race, and identity in the context of liberation and mental health care. Elevating queer stories and the impact of violence The importance of allyship in various institutions Understanding the concept of legacy and lineage within the Black community Embracing one's identity and the significance of individual legacy