EPISODE 81

The Aftermath: The REAL COVID Effect On Our Children

According to a new scientific report, the pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on Black and other children of color, leading to higher rates of severe cases, hospitalizations, deaths, and many other adverse effects. Compared to white children, Black children died 2.7 times more often, were hospitalized 2.2 times more often, and were vaccinated at lower rates than white children. 

In this episode of Black Mental Matters, we  discuss the devastating effects and give recommendations to improve outcomes, including steps to address access to health care, mental health services, and more..

EPISODE 80

“We’re Not Okay”

In the United States, only 6% of the 1.5 million faculty in degree-granting postsecondary institutions is Black. The new book, We’re Not Ok: Black Faculty Experiences and Higher Education Strategies shares the experiences of Black faculty to take the reader on a journey, from the obstacles of landing a full-time faculty position through the unique struggles of being a Black educator at a predominantly white institution.

On this episode, we talk with the authors and discuss some of those obstacles which can be experienced not only in higher education but in the workplace as a whole.

EPISODE 79

Mental Health Myths & Misconceptions

Over recent years, mental health has slowly moved out of the shadows. Yay!!!! After centuries of being sidelined, our state of mental well-being is gradually receiving more of the attention that it deserves. However, many myths persist.

On this episode we talk with Shelly-Anne Johnson, MSW, LCSW to address the untruths related to our mental well-being!

EPISODE 78

Trauma Hurts. Empathy Heals.

Whether you realize it or not, you and someone you know is experiencing the debilitating and life altering impact of individual and collective trauma. Well that’s pretty depressing, right?  Well, yes and no! What is the point of feeling shame for experiencing something that every person is experiencing, and feeling alone in, simply because we are too ashamed to share our stories and reshape them in a healthy way!

On this episode we talk with Dr. Alauna, Trauma Psychiatrist, whose work and hope is for an ‘Empathy Evolution’ in healthcare and beyond that will be a catalyst for a healthier, peaceful human species on Earth.

EPISODE 77

Finding Mental Health Help and Resources

Each year millions of Americans with mental illness struggle to find mental health care. Nearly half of the 60 million adults and children living with mental health conditions in the United States go without any treatment. People who seek treatment must navigate a fragmented and costly system full of obstacles. As a result, many people cannot access mental health care when they need it most.

We talk with Lisa Boylan of Navigate Hope which is dedicated to improving the mental health & well-being of all members of the community through outreach, education & support! Listen, Learn, and Share!!

EPISODE 76

Understanding and Dealing with Generational Trauma

Many things get passed down through families, like heirlooms, genetic conditions, and physical characteristics. In some cases, trauma can be inherited, too. Generational trauma (also known as intergenerational trauma or transgenerational trauma) is still a relatively new field of study, meaning researchers have a lot to discover about its impact and how it presents in people who suffer from it. We discuss this important topic with Dr Eugene Herrington identify some of the ways this condition can consciously and unconsciously affect our behavior! 

EPISODE 75

Suicide Is Not The End of the Story

Every year in the United States, more than 45,000 people take their own lives. Their final act doesn’t need to define their life.

From his personal experience, Vince and Makeba share ways you can try to navigate the shock, confusion, and despair and begin the healing process. We admonish listeners to try to remember and celebrate the important, joyous aspects of their life and of your relationship together. This Episode and the Black Mental Matters Podcast podcast is dedicated to  in loving memory to Vince’s Dad, Sidney Bailey, Jr. and Brother Theodore “Tony” Bailey. RIP

EPISODE 74

The Silent Epidemic – Postpartum Depression for Black Women

While the birth of a child can be a wonderful and joyous time, for some women it is a time of sadness, anxiety, loneliness, and worry that does not go away. In fact, up to 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression, a very real and serious mood disorder.

What if we were to tell you that women of color experience postpartum depression at double the rate of the general population? This is because a disproportionate number of women of color are not screened for depression and do not receive the necessary treatment and services. In fact, it is estimated that up to 60% of women of color do not receive any services! Think about the devastating impact this can have on them and their families.

On this episode we talk with Perinatal Wellness Coach Christina Lumpkin to learn more about this Silent Epidemic which affects us all…

EPISODE 73

“WTH??? Please Get Vaccinated”

No, the vaccine isn’t an effort to sterilize Black people. It can’t alter your DNA. It won’t implant a microchip to track your movements. And no, Black Folks and other people of color are not being used as guinea pigs.

Despite the desired intent for vaccination, there are still barriers preventing increased vaccination rates in the Black Community. One of the main reasons for lower vaccination rates by race and ethnicity is the significant misinformation about vaccines and lack of health education. On this episode we discuss the need to tune out the conspiracy theories, get vaccinated, and Save Lives! Including YOURS! 

EPISODE 72

Mental Health Support for Black College Students and Families

College can be a stressful time for young people and their parents… When you add COVID, racism, police brutality, and other obstacles, it can become downright frightening and lead our young people into unwanted situations.

On this episode, we talk with Dr. John Dunkle of the JED Foundation. JED is a nonprofit that protects emotional health and prevents suicide for our nation’s teens and young adults. They are partnering with high schools and colleges to strengthen their mental health, substance misuse, and suicide prevention programs and systems, equipping teens and young adults and their families with the skills and knowledge to help themselves and each other.

EPISODE 71

The Mental Challenge of Sports

With the news of Simone Biles pulling out of the Olympic finals and choosing her mental health first, we are seeing a movement among elite Black athletes who are taking a public stand to advocate for their own and others’ mental health. There has been a surge of elite athletes who have spoken out and shown the strain of what it is like to be under pressure and to be in the limelight.

EPISODE 70

Searching for the Truth
with Brittany Woodard

Our culture, beliefs, sexual identity, values, race, and language all affect how we perceive and experience mental health conditions. In fact, cultural differences can influence what treatments, coping mechanisms, and supports work for us. In order for the Black Community to improve mental health outcomes overall, we need more culturally competent professionals that look like, speak like and understand like we do. O

n this episode our special guest, Brittany Woodard speaks on her journey and experience as a young mental health professional searching for the truth to help our communities.

EPISODE 69

Critical Race Theory IS Critical

Critical race theory (CRT) is an academic movement of civil-rights scholars and activists in the United States who seek to critically examine U.S. law as it intersects with issues of race in the U.S. and to challenge mainstream American liberal approaches to racial justice.

Over the past six months, Republicans in more than two dozen states have proposed bills that aim to stop educational discussions about race, racism, and systemic oppression in the US — potentially eliminating the conversations altogether. We dive into what CRT really is and why it is Critical to the advancement of America.

EPISODE 68

Mindset Mastery with Suzan Hart

Could what you believe about yourself impact your success or failure? Believe it or not, your beliefs play a pivotal role in what you want and whether you achieve it. It is your MINDSET that plays a significant role in determining achievement and success. It influences how you think, feel, and behave in any given situation. On this episode, we discuss how to develop a good mindset with Mindset Mastery Mentor Suzan Hart?

EPISODE 67

Employees & Co Workers Need Mental Health Support Too!

Although the full impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the job market is still unknown, it is definitely possible to identify some of the main effects on employers, employees, and workplaces. A rash of surveys has painted a bleak picture of workers’ mental health because of the coronavirus pandemic.

As people are “getting back to work” willingly or not, companies, supervisors, and even co-workers cannot ignore their role in supporting employees who are struggling. Makeba and Vince discuss the workplace situation and provide some direction as we “work” to get back on track and onthe job…

EPISODE 66

Love & Relationships During The Pandemic

The pandemic has taken a toll on all aspects of life, including romantic relationships. Having a good relationship is no piece of cake even in normal times. Lockdown doesn’t make it any easier, with its psychological stress and restrictions on social contacts.

So how can relationships still thrive? We’ll dig into what’s keeping couples together or breaking them apart with Minister and Couples Counselor Timothy Brown!

EPISODE 65

Why Do White Supremacists Hate Black People

White supremacy in the United States has existed since before the nation’s founding, and U.S. history is beyond full of violence against people of color. The enslavement of Black people, an inherently violent white supremacist practice, was upheld by legal, societal, religious, and economic justifications. And throughout U.S. history, white supremacy has shaped the attitudes and laws of who could be an American citizen. On this episode, we ask and seek to answer the simple question, WHY?

EPISODE 64

Religious Barriers To Mental Healthcare

Historically, churches that serve the black community haven’t just functioned as houses of worship. Black churches have also served as broader community resource centers, fostering social engagement, and encouraging political participation.

As mental health becomes a rapidly growing concern in the black community, we call upon religious leaders to recognize their place as not just spiritual leaders, but as a critical resource for their congregants’ emotional, psychological and mental health needs!

EPISODE 63

Coming Out Of Covid

Studies have shown that the COVID-19 pandemic disproportionately affects Black people in the United States in severity, mortality, economics, and more. As COVID-19 vaccines make their way down the supply chain, more and more people will find themselves going to clinics, pharmacies, sports arenas, and other traditional or nontraditional sites to receive them. Yet everyone, especially Black Folks are not convinced.

On this episode, Vince and Makeba discuss the situation and strategize on how we can “Come Out Of Covid”

EPISODE 62

Customer Service Matters “Especially While Black”

When building a successful business, career, etc, everything screams for attention. Within that flood, why prioritize customer service?

In short, because happy customers lead to more money, growth, and sustainability. Many times we take customer service for granted or only recognize it when it is bad… On this episode, we talk to Businessman DJ Webb about his successful company and how good customer service keeps his business and bank account on the rise!

EPISODE 61

Getting Totally Well With Dr. Sandra Jackson Dent

As we set ourselves up for a successful 2021 and check our priorities in life, consider your total well-being and how it can be improved. Totally Well is not just about your health, being sick or having a medical condition. It’s about a balance of all things, an overall feeling that your life is going well.

As expert Dr Sandra Jackson Dent tells us, becoming “Totally Well” comes from your thoughts, actions, and experiences which we mostly have control over. Therefore, it is possible to improve your well-being. Start with figuring out what parts of well-being are most important to you. Listen and get started on your new journey!

EPISODE 60

Moving The Needle Forward with Henry A. Golatt

On this Episode we talk with Economic Empowerment Broker and Economic Evangelist, Henry Golatt about Entrepreneurship and the vast economic opportunities available to and within the Black Community! Whether you are working a 9-5 and considering or have business ownership aspirations, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!

EPISODE 59

The Who Behind Who’s Who In Black America

In this Episode we talk with Disruptive & Innovative Entrepreneur Coach C. Sunny Martin (inspired by the late great Mayor of Atlanta, Maynard Jackson) grew and sold his publishing firm (largest minority-owned in the US) and is now devoting his skills and experience to mentoring, coaching, and working with entrepreneurs, and small business owners who are thirsty to learn. Hear his story and plot your journey! Tell Alexa and Siri to “Play The Black Mental Matters Podcast!”

EPISODE 58

“I Can’t Breathe” Environmental Racism In America

“I Can’t Breathe” is echoing across the planet. Black, Brown, Indigenous and lower-wealth communities have disproportionately been the dumping grounds for our country’s deadliest toxic pollutants. These continuing actions have created sacrifice zones, filled with smelters, coal-fired power plants, incinerators, petrochemical facilities and a host of other polluters. We talk with BJ Johnson and Lynn McCray of Ecosneakers.org about what we can do to not only save our planet, but our lives.

EPISODE 57

Our Children, Our Community, Our Mental Health

To start out this new year, we welcome Dr Tarece Johnson an activist, advocate, self-published author, self-taught artist and poet, as well as Board Member of the largest school district in Georgia. She shares her infectious passion for diversity and inclusion which has more benefits for your mental health than you think.

EPISODE 56

Boyz To Men – Growing Up Black In America

On this Holiday Special I talk with my adult son about the challenges, as well as some strategies to overcome them while growing up Young Gifted and Black in America. Hope you enjoy!

EPISODE 55

A Conversaion With LaTosha Brown Co – Founder Of Black Voters Matter Fund

At the intersection of social justice, political empowerment, human development, and the cultural arts one will find LaTosha Brown. As the co-founder of the Black Voters Matter Fund and the BVM Capacity Building Institute, LaTosha is adamant about ensuring that all human beings have access to quality education, safety, security, peace, love, and happiness. Learn about her journey and how using YOUR gifts matter and can truly make a difference in this world!

EPISODE 54

Why Black Lives AND Black Voters Matter!

We talk with Atlanta Branch NAACP President Richard Rose about the importance of Voting and how Voting affects our lives! With a runoff coming in Georgia, the proof is here!

EPISODE 53

Recognizing A Mental Health Crisis

Many of us are experiencing new or worse mental health symptoms due to intense fear or stress relating to the pandemic, election, job situation, and more… Those with a mental health disorder may be at risk for a mental health crisis.

A crisis can be overwhelming not only for those experiencing it, but also for their friends and family. If you or someone you know has a mental health disorder, it’s important to understand the signs of an emergency situation. On this episode, learn more about mental health crises to help plan ahead and take action if needed.

EPISODE 52

Turn Your Doubts Inside Out

According to our guest, Cary Valentine – Turn your doubts inside out. Rearrange the letters in the word doubt and you come up with “to bud.” Which is to grow and to blossom. So the doubts and insecurities are not what they appear to be.

The guiding point is that the doubt is our friend and not our enemy. It’s trying to help us realize and actualize our potential, our gifts, our passion and our desires.

EPISODE 51

Maintaining Your Sanity During Election 2020

For most Americans, the 2020 presidential election is a big source of stress. For Black America, 71% of Black adults said this election is a source of stress, compared with 46% four years ago. Add to that the racial turmoil in our cities, the unsteady economy and climate change that has fueled widespread wildfires and other natural disasters… If election-related stress is getting to you, there are steps your can take to relieve it!

EPISODE 50

Black Men and Emotional Wellness

Emotional Wellness is critical to our well-being and health! The more you act on your feelings and emotions, the more reliable they become. Being emotionally well doesn’t mean that you’re happy all the time, but that you’re self-aware and able to shift and move as a way to feel better. Being emotionally well leads to a happier and more blissful life, and also allows you the opportunity to attain your full potential.

You can do it! Happy Emotional Wellness Month from Black Mental Matters!

EPISODE 49

Emotional Wellness

It’s very easy to suppress or hide our feelings when there’s so much else going on in our lives. With distractions coming at us from every direction, it’s important to quiet the noise and check-in with ourselves. Too often we forget to pause our busy lives to reset and reflect.

During the month of October, we celebrate Emotional Wellness Month which reminds us to prioritize our mental health and personal well-being.

EPISODE 48

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month—a time to share resources and stories in an effort to shed light on this highly taboo and stigmatized topic. We use this month to reach out to those affected by suicide, raise awareness and connect individuals with suicidal ideation to treatment services.

If you or someone you know is in an emergency, call 911 immediately.
If you are in crisis or are experiencing difficult or suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273 TALK (8255)

If you’re uncomfortable talking on the phone, you can also text TALK to 741-741 to be connected to a free, trained crisis counselor on the Crisis Text Line.

EPISODE 47

Grieving While Black in 2020

Grief can be one of the most intense emotions of the human experience. It can leave us feeling drained and depressed. You may be grieving about anything you’ve lost, whether it’s a loved one or a job. If your grief is severe, you may need extra help to heal and move on.

Understanding that loss is a natural part of life and learning to accept the loss are the best ways to begin coping with it. Vince and Makeba discuss this important topic and share tips on how to heal.

EPISODE 46

Police Shootings And The Mentally Ill

Studies have shown that People with untreated mental illness are 16 times more likely to be killed during a police encounter than other civilians approached or stopped by law enforcement.

Individuals with untreated severe mental illness are involved in at least 1 in 4 and as many as half of all fatal police shootings. By dismantling the mental illness treatment system, we have turned the mental health crisis from a medical issue into a police matter.

EPISODE 45

The Audacity Of Hope

Simply put, hope is a belief — a knowing — that things will get better… Millions of Americans have found themselves underemployed and jobless in this pandemic. Tens of thousands have lost loved ones to this virus. Countless people are living with uncertainty, stress, and loneliness brought on by the coronavirus. That’s in addition to the myriad other problems individuals face, even without a pandemic.

No matter what you are going through, ask yourself: What other hardships have you endured in your life? Then remind yourself: You’re still standing — you survived those previous struggles. Let that give you HOPE that you will also come through these current times.

EPISODE 44

Free Christopher Bynum

In February of 2000 of Gary, Indiana, Christopher “Chris” Bynum was arrested for 5 counts of murder. He was ultimately falsely convicted on all counts. At Bynum’s sentencing hearing, he spoke directly to the victim’s families– suggesting that, if they truly loved their deceased loved ones, they’d force the police to do their jobs.

For Bynum, that was a plea of innocence on his behalf. Bynum was sentenced to 300- years in prison for the crimes he was convicted of.

The Christopher Bynum ruling was changed and now set for August 14, 2020. We are trying to get as much

EPISODE 43

Growth And Wellness During Covid – 19

During this trying time of Covid-19 and the uncertainty surrounding all of us, we want to encourage all to not only survive, but thrive! We talk with special guest Tammy Nordheim on strategies we can employ to increase our personal growth and wellness so we can come out on the “other side” even better than before.

EPISODE 42

Getting Back To Being Black

Members of Black America are citizens of the United States of America. Also they are citizens of the states, counties, cities and municipalities in which they reside. Now, during, and after this pandemic and protest period,

The Black Community is a society whose culture is ready to be refined and re-defined. This definition or concept is not designed to ignore others in the Americas, but to evolve the strength and power of Blacks as citizens of the United States of America.

EPISODE 41

The Dis – Education On Racism Against Black Americans

There is a huge debate going on right now, particularly in social media, about the state of Black Americans, Black Protests, why Black Lives Matters, etc… For certain the racial disparities in every domain—health, homeownership, education, criminal justice, and beyond—reveals the fact that government-sanctioned policies and practices have facilitated the upward mobility of white Americans and created barriers to mobility for Black Americans.

In our effort to advance the truth, we tackle and vent the frustration of millions of Black Americans having to defend and explain the obvious.

EPISODE 37

Mental Health
Is A Family Affair

EPISODE 34

Black America Today – Weathered and Still Weathering

EPISODE 31

A Conversation With Renowned Mental Health Scientist, Dr Alfiee

EPISODE 28

Maintaining Your Mental Health During Coronavirus Lockdown

EPISODE 25

PTSD

EPISODE 22

Self Care For Social Justice Activists