Shows
Couched in ColorS3E16: Empowering Gen Z to Explore Their Passions Featuring Morgann NobleIn this episode, guest Morgann Noble, daughter of Dr. Alfiee and an intern at The AAKOMA Project, gives unique insights for parents about the challenges that children of color experience. With a passion for bringing ideas to life, Morgann calls herself “a dreamer” at The AAKOMA Project, with a long list of people of influence she would like to engage in the non-profit’s mental health initiatives. Topics covered in this interview: The anxiety that arose for Morgann growing up affluent as a person of color with well-educated parents in what was conside...2022-11-2453 minCouched in ColorS3E16: Empowering Gen Z to Explore Their Passions Featuring Morgann NobleIn this episode, guest Morgann Noble, daughter of Dr. Alfiee and an intern at The AAKOMA Project, gives unique insights for parents about the challenges that children of color experience. With a passion for bringing ideas to life, Morgann calls herself “a dreamer” at The AAKOMA Project, with a long list of people of influence she would like to engage in the non-profit’s mental health initiatives. Topics covered in this interview: The anxiety that arose for Morgann growing up affluent as a person of color with well-educated parents in what was conside...2022-11-2453 min
Couched in ColorS3E14: Building Bridges Featuring Kheira BekkadjaIn this episode, guest Kheira Bekkadja, a Muslim Algerian American college student making an impact in mental health, inspires listeners with her insights on grounding in self-care and positive affirmations. As an example, she shares the Muslim practice of praying five times, at set times during the day, as challenging as it can be to stay persistent. There are movements that go with the prayer, including putting the forehead on the floor, which helps release negative energy and connect with God. “My faith is what rejuvenates me,” Kheira says. Surrounding oneself with good people is anoth...2022-10-2741 minCouched in ColorS3E14: Building Bridges Featuring Kheira BekkadjaIn this episode, guest Kheira Bekkadja, a Muslim Algerian American college student making an impact in mental health, inspires listeners with her insights on grounding in self-care and positive affirmations. As an example, she shares the Muslim practice of praying five times, at set times during the day, as challenging as it can be to stay persistent. There are movements that go with the prayer, including putting the forehead on the floor, which helps release negative energy and connect with God. “My faith is what rejuvenates me,” Kheira says. Surrounding oneself with good people is anoth...2022-10-2741 min
Couched in ColorS3E10: How Sneakers Saved and Ruined My Life Featuring Trent Out LoudIn this episode, guest Trent Out Loud, founder and CEO of Exclucity, a multi-million-dollar footwear and apparel company, shares his story of seeking therapy after losing $2.3 million dollars in his sneakers’ business. That loss came when he forgot to tend to his own mental health during the ups and downs of his business, including the shifts occurring in the sneaker industry. As a result, he said started making wrong decisions. His therapist helped him deal with issues related to hypomania, mania and bipolar, and trained his brain to work in ways that benefited him. He cont...2022-09-2949 minCouched in ColorS3E10: How Sneakers Saved and Ruined My Life Featuring Trent Out LoudIn this episode, guest Trent Out Loud, founder and CEO of Exclucity, a multi-million-dollar footwear and apparel company, shares his story of seeking therapy after losing $2.3 million dollars in his sneakers’ business. That loss came when he forgot to tend to his own mental health during the ups and downs of his business, including the shifts occurring in the sneaker industry. As a result, he said started making wrong decisions. His therapist helped him deal with issues related to hypomania, mania and bipolar, and trained his brain to work in ways that benefited him. He cont...2022-09-2949 min
Couched in ColorS3E9: Mental Health Advocate, Mom, Veteran, Latina: A Hidden Healer Featuring Ayanna KellyIn this episode, guest Ayanna Kelly, an Afro-Latina advocate, disabled veteran and mom, shares an inside look at her mental health journey from burnout to standing at the White House as a leader of the Mental Health Youth Action Forum. (https://www.mentalhealthishealth.us/youth-action-forum/) That forum, which took place in May 2022, was created in partnership with MTV Entertainment Group and coordination with the Biden-Harris Administration. In a “surreal” moment, Ayanna found herself standing next to President Joe Biden and U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, and other highly accomplished people. She saw herself...2022-09-2247 minCouched in ColorS3E9: Mental Health Advocate, Mom, Veteran, Latina: A Hidden Healer Featuring Ayanna KellyIn this episode, guest Ayanna Kelly, an Afro-Latina advocate, disabled veteran and mom, shares an inside look at her mental health journey from burnout to standing at the White House as a leader of the Mental Health Youth Action Forum. (https://www.mentalhealthishealth.us/youth-action-forum/) That forum, which took place in May 2022, was created in partnership with MTV Entertainment Group and coordination with the Biden-Harris Administration. In a “surreal” moment, Ayanna found herself standing next to President Joe Biden and U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, and other highly accomplished people. She saw herself...2022-09-2247 min
Couched in ColorS3E8: Carson Daly Feels Your Pain: A Special Conversation on Couched in ColorIn this episode, Carson Daly, co-host of “The Today Show” and creator of its “Mind Matters” digital series, and producer/host of Emmy-award winning “The Voice”, openly shares his mental health struggles. He discusses the trauma of losing his father unexpectedly at age 5 and the subsequent night terrors he experienced. Later diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder, Carson believes environment alone is not the cause of his mental health challenges. Rather, he sees them as a combination of both “nature and nurture.” Using his story to help others, Carson is passionate that all segments of the population...2022-09-1531 minCouched in ColorS3E8: Carson Daly Feels Your Pain: A Special Conversation on Couched in ColorIn this episode, Carson Daly, co-host of “The Today Show” and creator of its “Mind Matters” digital series, and producer/host of Emmy-award winning “The Voice”, openly shares his mental health struggles. He discusses the trauma of losing his father unexpectedly at age 5 and the subsequent night terrors he experienced. Later diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder, Carson believes environment alone is not the cause of his mental health challenges. Rather, he sees them as a combination of both “nature and nurture.” Using his story to help others, Carson is passionate that all segments of the population...2022-09-1531 min
Couched in ColorS3E7: Phillip Schermer’s Mastermind Approach to Mental Health for the MassesIn this inspiring episode Dr. Alfiee interviews guest Phillip Schermer, founder and CEO of Project Healthy Minds, a non-profit created for a new era of mental wellness. Phillip, who was previously a Vice President & Chief of Staff to the Vice Chairman at BlackRock, the world's largest asset management firm, was so moved by the story of Logic, a rapper and record producer, he started the non-profit to more impactfully bring together mental health resources. Logic shed light on mental health challenges by writing a song with the phone number of the US National S...2022-09-0838 minCouched in ColorS3E7: Phillip Schermer’s Mastermind Approach to Mental Health for the MassesIn this inspiring episode Dr. Alfiee interviews guest Phillip Schermer, founder and CEO of Project Healthy Minds, a non-profit created for a new era of mental wellness. Phillip, who was previously a Vice President & Chief of Staff to the Vice Chairman at BlackRock, the world's largest asset management firm, was so moved by the story of Logic, a rapper and record producer, he started the non-profit to more impactfully bring together mental health resources. Logic shed light on mental health challenges by writing a song with the phone number of the US National S...2022-09-0838 min
Couched in ColorS3E6: Youth + Community Mental Health Advocacy: On a Mission with Marc MendiolaIn this episode, Dr. Alfiee showcases 21-year-old youth advocate/mental health activist Marc Mendiola, who began making a difference in high school for those from low economic or diverse ethnic backgrounds. He has expanded his mission attracting millions of dollars of funding for new mental health initiatives. Now an undergraduate at Texas A & M University, Marc serves as Vice President of The Mexican Student Association, which is one the largest student organizations on campus, with more than 600 members. The focus is speaking for the minority and Marc wants to use his position to get better health resources at...2022-09-0148 minCouched in ColorS3E6: Youth + Community Mental Health Advocacy: On a Mission with Marc MendiolaIn this episode, Dr. Alfiee showcases 21-year-old youth advocate/mental health activist Marc Mendiola, who began making a difference in high school for those from low economic or diverse ethnic backgrounds. He has expanded his mission attracting millions of dollars of funding for new mental health initiatives. Now an undergraduate at Texas A & M University, Marc serves as Vice President of The Mexican Student Association, which is one the largest student organizations on campus, with more than 600 members. The focus is speaking for the minority and Marc wants to use his position to get better health resources at...2022-09-0148 min
Couched in ColorS3E5: Beyond the Red Carpet: A Life Redirected to Service with Shanti DasIn episode 5 of Couched in Color, Dr. Alfiee celebrates the comeback/reinvention of Shanti Das and her “Silence the Shame” mission. Shanti, well known in the entertainment industry for her work with some of music’s top talent –like OutKast, Usher, Prince, TLC, Toni Braxton, and Erykah Badu, to name a few–shares a different type of success in this intimate interview. Shanti tells the story of the night she contemplated suicide, with pills nearby, and ended up reaching out for help. That night changed her life forever, as she was redirected to self-care and to teach o...2022-08-2540 minCouched in ColorS3E5: Beyond the Red Carpet: A Life Redirected to Service with Shanti DasIn episode 5 of Couched in Color, Dr. Alfiee celebrates the comeback/reinvention of Shanti Das and her “Silence the Shame” mission. Shanti, well known in the entertainment industry for her work with some of music’s top talent –like OutKast, Usher, Prince, TLC, Toni Braxton, and Erykah Badu, to name a few–shares a different type of success in this intimate interview. Shanti tells the story of the night she contemplated suicide, with pills nearby, and ended up reaching out for help. That night changed her life forever, as she was redirected to self-care and to teach o...2022-08-2540 min
Couched in ColorS3E4: New Mental Health Models for All Generations of Black Men Featuring Douglas Reed & Reginald A. HowardIn Episode 4, Dr. Alfiee speaks with two “brothers” serving the Black Men Heal mission, expanding the non-profit’s free online therapy out into the world with an ongoing tour in various cities across the U.S. The two guests not only work for Black Men Heal, but they each have used the organization’s free therapy for themselves. Guest Doug McNeill Reed, Director of Partnerships, openly shares his healing journey after divorces, and tragically losing his father at age 12. Guest Reginald A. Howard, Senior Program Coordinator, who attempted suicide multiple times, bravely shares an early life exper...2022-08-1852 minCouched in ColorS3E4: New Mental Health Models for All Generations of Black Men Featuring Douglas Reed & Reginald A. HowardIn Episode 4, Dr. Alfiee speaks with two “brothers” serving the Black Men Heal mission, expanding the non-profit’s free online therapy out into the world with an ongoing tour in various cities across the U.S. The two guests not only work for Black Men Heal, but they each have used the organization’s free therapy for themselves. Guest Doug McNeill Reed, Director of Partnerships, openly shares his healing journey after divorces, and tragically losing his father at age 12. Guest Reginald A. Howard, Senior Program Coordinator, who attempted suicide multiple times, bravely shares an early life exper...2022-08-1852 min
Couched in ColorS3E3: Knowing That You Are Enough Featuring Adrienne “Gam” NorrisIn this third episode of Couched in Color, Dr. Alfiee goes deep with guest Adrienne Banfield Norrris, better known as “Gammy” or “Gam” from Red Table Talk, a popular talk show with candid conversations among three generations of Black women. Gam is the mother of Jada Pinkett Smith, mother-in-law of Will Smith, and grandmother to Willow who is also on the show. She courageously talks about living through addiction, continuously battling low self-esteem, not feeling good enough, and dealing with fame. Even now, as she appears visibly confident on so many platforms–from her own podcast to...2022-08-1134 minCouched in ColorS3E3: Knowing That You Are Enough Featuring Adrienne “Gam” NorrisIn this third episode of Couched in Color, Dr. Alfiee goes deep with guest Adrienne Banfield Norrris, better known as “Gammy” or “Gam” from Red Table Talk, a popular talk show with candid conversations among three generations of Black women. Gam is the mother of Jada Pinkett Smith, mother-in-law of Will Smith, and grandmother to Willow who is also on the show. She courageously talks about living through addiction, continuously battling low self-esteem, not feeling good enough, and dealing with fame. Even now, as she appears visibly confident on so many platforms–from her own podcast to...2022-08-1134 min
Couched in ColorS3E1: Finding the Home Within with Dr. Jenny WangIn this opening episode of Season 3 of the “Couched in Color” podcast, Host Dr. Alfiee is joined by guest, Dr. Jenny T. Wang, who has been acknowledged for her “groundbreaking and invaluable” knowledge, presence, and activism for mental health in the Asian American/Immigrant community. Dr. Wang released a new book in May, 2022, Permission to Come Home: Reclaiming Mental Health as Asian Americans that honors the journey so many felt in isolation, as she guides readers to become empowered by finding their home within. Dr. Alfiee is passionate about using her podcast to elevate conversations about menta...2022-07-2843 minCouched in ColorS3E1: Finding the Home Within with Dr. Jenny WangIn this opening episode of Season 3 of the “Couched in Color” podcast, Host Dr. Alfiee is joined by guest, Dr. Jenny T. Wang, who has been acknowledged for her “groundbreaking and invaluable” knowledge, presence, and activism for mental health in the Asian American/Immigrant community. Dr. Wang released a new book in May, 2022, Permission to Come Home: Reclaiming Mental Health as Asian Americans that honors the journey so many felt in isolation, as she guides readers to become empowered by finding their home within. Dr. Alfiee is passionate about using her podcast to elevate conversations about menta...2022-07-2843 min
Couched in ColorS2E23: Season 2 is a Wrap! with Dr. AlfieeJoin Dr. Alfiee as she wraps up Season 2 of the Couched in Color podcast! After 22 episodes, Dr. Alfiee sits down with you and shares the driving forces behind the creation of this platform and her vision behind it all. From proud advocates to authentic allies, Couched in Color has hosted a wide range of guests from all backgrounds and cultures to tell their powerful stories. Tune in as Dr. Alfiee reflects on those guest experiences and the valuable lessons she has learned from hosting Season 2 of Couched in Color. Thank you so much for tuning in, and see you...2021-06-0324 minCouched in ColorS2E23: Season 2 is a Wrap! with Dr. AlfieeJoin Dr. Alfiee as she wraps up Season 2 of the Couched in Color podcast! After 22 episodes, Dr. Alfiee sits down with you and shares the driving forces behind the creation of this platform and her vision behind it all. From proud advocates to authentic allies, Couched in Color has hosted a wide range of guests from all backgrounds and cultures to tell their powerful stories. Tune in as Dr. Alfiee reflects on those guest experiences and the valuable lessons she has learned from hosting Season 2 of Couched in Color. Thank you so much for tuning in, and see you...2021-06-0324 min
Couched in ColorS2E22: He's On Wheels with a Mission and a Message with Justin GravesAs a huge advocate for inclusivity and being of service, Justin Graves embodies that very purpose in everything he does, especially through his organization, He’s On Wheels. Tune in as Justin shares his experience of thriving with a disability, what inclusion means to him, and how he promotes that in all of his work. Dr. Alfiee and Justin also chat about the struggles of feeling invisible, how to be of service to others, and why we need to get comfortable asking hard questions (and how to ask them!). Join the discussion and uncover how even the little things yo...2021-05-1855 minCouched in ColorS2E22: He's On Wheels with a Mission and a Message with Justin GravesAs a huge advocate for inclusivity and being of service, Justin Graves embodies that very purpose in everything he does, especially through his organization, He’s On Wheels. Tune in as Justin shares his experience of thriving with a disability, what inclusion means to him, and how he promotes that in all of his work. Dr. Alfiee and Justin also chat about the struggles of feeling invisible, how to be of service to others, and why we need to get comfortable asking hard questions (and how to ask them!). Join the discussion and uncover how even the little things yo...2021-05-1855 min
Couched in ColorS2E21: The Winding Road that Leads You Back to Yourself with Matt WestJoin us as we uncover the power of mindfulness and journaling with special guest and founder of the Boom Journal app, Matt West! In this episode, Matt opens up about the pivotal moments in his life, from grieving his career-ending injury to creating his Boom Journal app. Matt has since been making waves in the mental health space by being a strong advocate for mindful journaling. Dr. Alfiee and Matt also chat about toxic positivity, self-growth, and how to be of support to others especially during trying times such as COVID. Find out what makes Matt such a strong...2021-05-1349 minCouched in ColorS2E21: The Winding Road that Leads You Back to Yourself with Matt WestJoin us as we uncover the power of mindfulness and journaling with special guest and founder of the Boom Journal app, Matt West! In this episode, Matt opens up about the pivotal moments in his life, from grieving his career-ending injury to creating his Boom Journal app. Matt has since been making waves in the mental health space by being a strong advocate for mindful journaling. Dr. Alfiee and Matt also chat about toxic positivity, self-growth, and how to be of support to others especially during trying times such as COVID. Find out what makes Matt such a strong...2021-05-1349 min
Couched in ColorS2E20: The Joy Of Being Unapologetically Me with Juan AcostaFrom the young age of thirteen, Juan Acosta started his mental health advocacy for kids at the intersection of the LGBTQ+ and Latinx communities. Now a fully-fledged mental health advocate and contributor to the new book from Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation, CHANNEL KINDNESS, Juan continues his fight for equality, awareness, and rights for marginalized youth. Join Dr. Alfiee and Juan as they discuss the stigma of mental illness in Latinx communities, what inspired him to begin his mental health advocacy, and the biggest challenges he has had to overcome in his journey! KEY POINTS / MA...2021-05-0641 minCouched in ColorS2E20: The Joy Of Being Unapologetically Me with Juan AcostaFrom the young age of thirteen, Juan Acosta started his mental health advocacy for kids at the intersection of the LGBTQ+ and Latinx communities. Now a fully-fledged mental health advocate and contributor to the new book from Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation, CHANNEL KINDNESS, Juan continues his fight for equality, awareness, and rights for marginalized youth. Join Dr. Alfiee and Juan as they discuss the stigma of mental illness in Latinx communities, what inspired him to begin his mental health advocacy, and the biggest challenges he has had to overcome in his journey! KEY POINTS / MA...2021-05-0641 min
Couched in ColorS2E19: The Doctors: Black Youth, Parenting + Racial SocializationIn this three-part episode, Dr. Alfiee chats with the authors of the book African American Families: Research, Theory, and Practice Faye Z. Belgrave, Ph.D., Trenette Clark Goings, Ph.D., and Heather A. Jones, Ph.D. We invited the authors to the show to share a traditional academic perspective on best practices in supporting the emotional development of Black youth. As Dr. Alfiee discusses this new book with each of the authors, she uncovers the motivation behind their work and how their unique areas of expertise were woven into the publication. Listen and learn more about the term racia...2021-04-2952 minCouched in ColorS2E19: The Doctors: Black Youth, Parenting + Racial SocializationIn this three-part episode, Dr. Alfiee chats with the authors of the book African American Families: Research, Theory, and Practice Faye Z. Belgrave, Ph.D., Trenette Clark Goings, Ph.D., and Heather A. Jones, Ph.D. We invited the authors to the show to share a traditional academic perspective on best practices in supporting the emotional development of Black youth. As Dr. Alfiee discusses this new book with each of the authors, she uncovers the motivation behind their work and how their unique areas of expertise were woven into the publication. Listen and learn more about the term racia...2021-04-2952 min
Couched in ColorS2E18: My Culture Does Not Take Away From, It Only Adds to My Character with Jason PhillipsWe’ve all experienced growing pains in our lives. The struggles of fitting in, overcoming fears, even navigating insecurities can oftentimes be too much to bear, especially for young people. But therapist, life coach, and mentor Jason Phillips is a living example to BIPOC youth of how to wear confidence loud and proud! In this episode, Jason shares what sparked his passion for mental health in Black boys and men and teaches us about the importance of helping Black boys find their self-confidence. Dr. Alfiee and Jason also chat about their college experiences and the key sponsors and mentors in...2021-04-2241 minCouched in ColorS2E18: My Culture Does Not Take Away From, It Only Adds to My Character with Jason PhillipsWe’ve all experienced growing pains in our lives. The struggles of fitting in, overcoming fears, even navigating insecurities can oftentimes be too much to bear, especially for young people. But therapist, life coach, and mentor Jason Phillips is a living example to BIPOC youth of how to wear confidence loud and proud! In this episode, Jason shares what sparked his passion for mental health in Black boys and men and teaches us about the importance of helping Black boys find their self-confidence. Dr. Alfiee and Jason also chat about their college experiences and the key sponsors and mentors in...2021-04-2241 min
Couched in ColorS2E17: My Journey to Knowing: Black Boys, Mental Health and Healing from Trauma with Brittney MorrisIn this episode, published author Brittney Morris joins us to chat about her latest novel The Cost of Knowing with your host, Dr. Alfiee. The Cost of Knowing is a celebration of Black men and shines a spotlight on the uniqueness of Black manhood and masculinity. This is an especially poignant conversation and celebration of Black boyhood, given the racial trauma all around us in this time of the loss of young #DaunteWright. Find out what motivated Brittney to write about young male relationships in the Black community, and why there is a strong need for more variation in how...2021-04-1540 minCouched in ColorS2E17: My Journey to Knowing: Black Boys, Mental Health and Healing from Trauma with Brittney MorrisIn this episode, published author Brittney Morris joins us to chat about her latest novel The Cost of Knowing with your host, Dr. Alfiee. The Cost of Knowing is a celebration of Black men and shines a spotlight on the uniqueness of Black manhood and masculinity. This is an especially poignant conversation and celebration of Black boyhood, given the racial trauma all around us in this time of the loss of young #DaunteWright. Find out what motivated Brittney to write about young male relationships in the Black community, and why there is a strong need for more variation in how...2021-04-1540 min
Couched in ColorS2E16: U Good?: Black Mental Health in the Age of COVID with Ali Gates and Evans AnyanwuFounders and creators Ali Gates and Evans Anyanwu of the U; Good? app have been making waves in the mental health space with their platform. Find out how they are breaking intergenerational chains as Black men by not only being open with their feelings, but by creating a platform that encourages others to do the same without judgment. Their incredible platform is straightforward and deeply engaging all at the same time allowing users to check in on their loved ones with ease. Tune in to see what exactly this app is all about and uncover the process behind turning this...2021-04-0849 minCouched in ColorS2E16: U Good?: Black Mental Health in the Age of COVID with Ali Gates and Evans AnyanwuFounders and creators Ali Gates and Evans Anyanwu of the U; Good? app have been making waves in the mental health space with their platform. Find out how they are breaking intergenerational chains as Black men by not only being open with their feelings, but by creating a platform that encourages others to do the same without judgment. Their incredible platform is straightforward and deeply engaging all at the same time allowing users to check in on their loved ones with ease. Tune in to see what exactly this app is all about and uncover the process behind turning this...2021-04-0849 min
Couched in ColorS2E15: I Woke Up Like This... On Purpose: Black Men, Medicine and Mental Health with Dr. Russell LedetIn this episode, we invite medical expert and cancer scientist, Dr. Russell Ledet to discuss his life’s work and the moments leading up to his achievements as a Black man in the field of academic medicine. Tune in as Dr. Alfiee and Dr. Ledet discuss the countless systemic issues that Black students face in the academic space and how they navigate and overcome these hurdles through the support of sponsors and, more importantly, knowing their worth. Dr. Ledet also opens up about the most vulnerable yet pivotal moments in his life and the biggest epiphanies that they brought hi...2021-04-0150 minCouched in ColorS2E15: I Woke Up Like This... On Purpose: Black Men, Medicine and Mental Health with Dr. Russell LedetIn this episode, we invite medical expert and cancer scientist, Dr. Russell Ledet to discuss his life’s work and the moments leading up to his achievements as a Black man in the field of academic medicine. Tune in as Dr. Alfiee and Dr. Ledet discuss the countless systemic issues that Black students face in the academic space and how they navigate and overcome these hurdles through the support of sponsors and, more importantly, knowing their worth. Dr. Ledet also opens up about the most vulnerable yet pivotal moments in his life and the biggest epiphanies that they brought hi...2021-04-0150 min
Couched in ColorS2E14: On Eating Disorders, Yoga + a Tight Shoe Game with Dr. E2K DzirasaDid you know that 9% of the U.S. population (that’s 28.8 million Americans!) will have an eating disorder in their lifetime? Yet many people struggling with it fall under the radar, especially among Black and diverse communities. In this episode, we invite mental health expert and clinical psychiatrist Dr. Dzirasa to educate us on eating disorders and clear up any misconceptions we may have about them. Dr. Alfiee also discusses the prevalence of harmful body image among Black youth and children with Dr. Dzirasa, as well as the more nuanced causes of eating disorders. There’s so much more than...2021-03-2550 minCouched in ColorS2E14: On Eating Disorders, Yoga + a Tight Shoe Game with Dr. E2K DzirasaDid you know that 9% of the U.S. population (that’s 28.8 million Americans!) will have an eating disorder in their lifetime? Yet many people struggling with it fall under the radar, especially among Black and diverse communities. In this episode, we invite mental health expert and clinical psychiatrist Dr. Dzirasa to educate us on eating disorders and clear up any misconceptions we may have about them. Dr. Alfiee also discusses the prevalence of harmful body image among Black youth and children with Dr. Dzirasa, as well as the more nuanced causes of eating disorders. There’s so much more than...2021-03-2550 min
Couched in ColorS2E13: I Slay...All Day with Ryan Mitchell We are so excited to have Ryan Mitchell, host of the Channel Q radio show ‘Let’s Go There with Shira & Ryan’, joining us today! Ryan is a bright, glowing, unapologetic light and he takes pride in bringing his full self into his mental health advocacy and public work. In this episode, Ryan shares his journey to self-discovery and more importantly, self-love as he came to own and claim his identity in the loudest and proudest way. Dr. Alfiee and Ryan also chat about the importance of self-care, managing anxiety as Black people, and how to bring yourself back to pea...2021-03-1837 minCouched in ColorS2E13: I Slay...All Day with Ryan Mitchell We are so excited to have Ryan Mitchell, host of the Channel Q radio show ‘Let’s Go There with Shira & Ryan’, joining us today! Ryan is a bright, glowing, unapologetic light and he takes pride in bringing his full self into his mental health advocacy and public work. In this episode, Ryan shares his journey to self-discovery and more importantly, self-love as he came to own and claim his identity in the loudest and proudest way. Dr. Alfiee and Ryan also chat about the importance of self-care, managing anxiety as Black people, and how to bring yourself back to pea...2021-03-1837 min
Couched in ColorS2E12: The Sad Girls Club with Elyse and BrianneIn this episode, we are joined by the founders of the Sad Girls Club - Elyse and Brianne, to take a deep dive into mental health for BIPOC women and femmes who are part of their super inclusive Gen Z community. Driven by a strong passion for eliminating stigmas and smashing taboos behind mental illnesses, Elyse and Brianne created the Sad Girls Club as a safe space for people to discuss and maintain their mental health outside of traditional medicine. Find out how the Sad Girls Club came to be and how it has touched the lives of many...2021-03-1142 minCouched in ColorS2E12: The Sad Girls Club with Elyse and BrianneIn this episode, we are joined by the founders of the Sad Girls Club - Elyse and Brianne, to take a deep dive into mental health for BIPOC women and femmes who are part of their super inclusive Gen Z community. Driven by a strong passion for eliminating stigmas and smashing taboos behind mental illnesses, Elyse and Brianne created the Sad Girls Club as a safe space for people to discuss and maintain their mental health outside of traditional medicine. Find out how the Sad Girls Club came to be and how it has touched the lives of many...2021-03-1142 min
Couched in ColorS2E11: Gen Z Girls: Power Creativity and Mental Health with Madison, Ava, and Elle MacGregorMeet Madison, Ava, and Elle MacGregor - writers, actors, and mental health advocates! Tune in as they each share their journey as artists, creatives and as supporters of mental health with us. You will also uncover the different ways you can be of true support to your friends or loved ones who might be struggling with mental health issues. These young women are amazing and they definitely pack a punch with the big waves they are making in the creative and mental health worlds. Join in on the conversation to learn more about their work and see what’s next f...2021-03-0435 minCouched in ColorS2E11: Gen Z Girls: Power Creativity and Mental Health with Madison, Ava, and Elle MacGregorMeet Madison, Ava, and Elle MacGregor - writers, actors, and mental health advocates! Tune in as they each share their journey as artists, creatives and as supporters of mental health with us. You will also uncover the different ways you can be of true support to your friends or loved ones who might be struggling with mental health issues. These young women are amazing and they definitely pack a punch with the big waves they are making in the creative and mental health worlds. Join in on the conversation to learn more about their work and see what’s next f...2021-03-0435 min
Couched in ColorS2E10: Black Men: Mental Health, Marketing, and Media with Dr. Jeff RockerDr. Jeff Rocker is a licensed mental health counselor specializing in individuals, couples, families, and teens. He is the founder of How We See It, a non-profit organization committed to dispelling myths about psychotherapy in communities of color and young people, and CEO of Rocker Management, where he trains early career mental health professionals to brand and market themselves as clinicians in the field. As a strong advocate for mental health in youth, Dr. Jeff Rocker aims to bring the people who provide mental health care to the forefront of personal development and self-improvement through social media and...2021-02-2536 minCouched in ColorS2E10: Black Men: Mental Health, Marketing, and Media with Dr. Jeff RockerDr. Jeff Rocker is a licensed mental health counselor specializing in individuals, couples, families, and teens. He is the founder of How We See It, a non-profit organization committed to dispelling myths about psychotherapy in communities of color and young people, and CEO of Rocker Management, where he trains early career mental health professionals to brand and market themselves as clinicians in the field. As a strong advocate for mental health in youth, Dr. Jeff Rocker aims to bring the people who provide mental health care to the forefront of personal development and self-improvement through social media and...2021-02-2536 min
Couched in ColorS2E9: Dr. Charles Corprew My Mental Health Revolution: A Brother's Vision for Black MenDr. Charles Corprew’s personal revolution began just three years ago - since then, he has been on a path of vulnerability and honesty, and has not looked back . As a strong believer in everyone’s ability to transform their lives from the inside out and with a dedicated focus on Black men, Dr. Corprew is committed to helping others become the best versions of themselves. He is leading his revolution of positive change as host of the What’s Your Revolution? podcast, serving as a role model and through creating educational and mentored experiences for Black-owned businesses through CamelBack V...2021-02-1840 minCouched in ColorS2E9: Dr. Charles Corprew My Mental Health Revolution: A Brother's Vision for Black MenDr. Charles Corprew’s personal revolution began just three years ago - since then, he has been on a path of vulnerability and honesty, and has not looked back . As a strong believer in everyone’s ability to transform their lives from the inside out and with a dedicated focus on Black men, Dr. Corprew is committed to helping others become the best versions of themselves. He is leading his revolution of positive change as host of the What’s Your Revolution? podcast, serving as a role model and through creating educational and mentored experiences for Black-owned businesses through CamelBack V...2021-02-1840 min
Couched in ColorS2E8: Ryan Peete Free to Be Me: Adulting and Mental Health with Black Gen ZTune in to this special episode as singer-songwriter and author of the NAACP award-winning book ‘My Brother Charlie’ Ryan Peete talks about her personal struggles with mental health. Learn about her journey towards finding proper care and medication, as well as how she rediscovered her artistic identity and craft amidst a pandemic. Ryan also opens up about her frustrations with misdiagnoses and being swept under the rug as a Person of Color with mental illness. As a strong advocate for the mental health and autism community, Ryan tackles many of the issues faced by these communities through her music and...2021-02-1145 minCouched in ColorS2E8: Ryan Peete Free to Be Me: Adulting and Mental Health with Black Gen ZTune in to this special episode as singer-songwriter and author of the NAACP award-winning book ‘My Brother Charlie’ Ryan Peete talks about her personal struggles with mental health. Learn about her journey towards finding proper care and medication, as well as how she rediscovered her artistic identity and craft amidst a pandemic. Ryan also opens up about her frustrations with misdiagnoses and being swept under the rug as a Person of Color with mental illness. As a strong advocate for the mental health and autism community, Ryan tackles many of the issues faced by these communities through her music and...2021-02-1145 min
Couched in ColorS2E5: Diversity, Developmental Disorders, and White Allies With Dr. Deborah BuddingINTRODUCTION: We are thrilled to have special guest, Dr. Deborah Budding, with us today! Join in on the conversation as Dr. Alfiee and Dr. Budding share their passions and commitment for equity among the many diverse communities they serve. Dr. Budding is a clinical and forensic neuropsychologist with a pediatric specialization and is also a strong advocate for providing proper support to children with neurodevelopment differences. Tune in to find out exactly what she does, how she makes herself an authentic ally as a White woman, and why you should stop trying to ‘fix’ your kid. KE...2021-01-2147 minCouched in ColorS2E5: Diversity, Developmental Disorders, and White Allies With Dr. Deborah BuddingINTRODUCTION: We are thrilled to have special guest, Dr. Deborah Budding, with us today! Join in on the conversation as Dr. Alfiee and Dr. Budding share their passions and commitment for equity among the many diverse communities they serve. Dr. Budding is a clinical and forensic neuropsychologist with a pediatric specialization and is also a strong advocate for providing proper support to children with neurodevelopment differences. Tune in to find out exactly what she does, how she makes herself an authentic ally as a White woman, and why you should stop trying to ‘fix’ your kid. KE...2021-01-2147 min
Couched in ColorS2E4: Love and Teach the Babies: Black LGBTQ Mental HealthMr. David Johns of the National Black Justice Coalition is an educator, an unapologetic advocate for youths who far too often find themselves neglected or ignored, and so much more. We are honored to have him on this episode to talk about his passion for young people’s mental health and share with us the many important lessons that he learned in the process of helping them figure out their identities and navigate the environment in which they live and grow up in. Tune in to find out what he means when he says there is no such thing as...2021-01-1447 minCouched in ColorS2E4: Love and Teach the Babies: Black LGBTQ Mental HealthMr. David Johns of the National Black Justice Coalition is an educator, an unapologetic advocate for youths who far too often find themselves neglected or ignored, and so much more. We are honored to have him on this episode to talk about his passion for young people’s mental health and share with us the many important lessons that he learned in the process of helping them figure out their identities and navigate the environment in which they live and grow up in. Tune in to find out what he means when he says there is no such thing as...2021-01-1447 min
Couched in ColorS2E3: Black Influencers and Mental Health, A Guys Perspective With Landon MossLandon Moss is an influencer, filmmaker, director, screenwriter, and so much more! In this special episode, Landon joins us to talk about his journey behind wearing these many different hats. After letting go of his full scholarship by dropping out of school and moving to LA, Landon continues to find himself at different crossroads in his life. Find out how he navigates these territories to not just survive, but thrive! Tune in as he shares his experiences of being Black in a White space, the many pressures that life brings, as well as how he copes with them. 2021-01-0744 min
Couched in ColorS1 BONUS EPISODE: You Are Elegant. A Special CIC Episode w/Super Producer Mark "King" Batson This is a time of unprecedented stress regarding racial justice, police brutality, the election of 2020 and of course the Coronavirus. With all that is surrounding us, I wanted to bring you a special episode between seasons 1 and 2 (hence CIC EpS1.5). I am so excited for this special episode of my podcast called, "You Are Elegant: A Special CIC Episode w/Super Producer Mark "King" Batson" (on IG at @markbatsonrocks). Mark has just dropped a new album of uplifting and affirming songs and I'm here to tell you it is awesome (you can find it right...2021-01-0247 minCouched in ColorS1 BONUS EPISODE: You Are Elegant. A Special CIC Episode w/Super Producer Mark "King" Batson This is a time of unprecedented stress regarding racial justice, police brutality, the election of 2020 and of course the Coronavirus. With all that is surrounding us, I wanted to bring you a special episode between seasons 1 and 2 (hence CIC EpS1.5). I am so excited for this special episode of my podcast called, "You Are Elegant: A Special CIC Episode w/Super Producer Mark "King" Batson" (on IG at @markbatsonrocks). Mark has just dropped a new album of uplifting and affirming songs and I'm here to tell you it is awesome (you can find it right...2021-01-0247 min
Couched in ColorS1E20 (Part 2): As For Me, I Have to Stick with the Sistahs: Black Women Creatives and Mental Health with Nikki Webber Allen (Part 2 of my conversation with the shining light Nikki Webber Allen) This final episode of the season, part 2 of 2 parts, is particularly powerful and remains relevant for me and the CIC crew. Nikki Webber Allen is an Emmy award winning producer with a Ted Talk (yes THE TED Talk), currently at 2.3 million views and counting. Nikki talks openly about her own experiences with mental health, she describes her devastating loss of a loved one to mental illness and she openly shares with our audience her coping strategies, means of support and efforts to empower other...2021-01-0220 minCouched in ColorS1E20 (Part 2): As For Me, I Have to Stick with the Sistahs: Black Women Creatives and Mental Health with Nikki Webber Allen (Part 2 of my conversation with the shining light Nikki Webber Allen) This final episode of the season, part 2 of 2 parts, is particularly powerful and remains relevant for me and the CIC crew. Nikki Webber Allen is an Emmy award winning producer with a Ted Talk (yes THE TED Talk), currently at 2.3 million views and counting. Nikki talks openly about her own experiences with mental health, she describes her devastating loss of a loved one to mental illness and she openly shares with our audience her coping strategies, means of support and efforts to empower other...2021-01-0220 min
Couched in ColorS1E19 (Part 1): As For Me, I Have to Stick with the Sistahs: Black Women Creatives and Mental Health with Nikki Webber Allen Earlier this week, I took a moment to reflect on Black women, our mental health, trauma, grief and recovery. I thought about Megan Thee Stallion and her traumatic experience with gun violence; the horrifying impacts of COVID-19 on Black women caring for children, spouses/partners, aging parents and working in essential professions (sometimes without PPE or other critical safety measures). My teen daughter brought it all home for me when she told me, "mom I feel like Black women are the most unprotected women in the world". It was heavy and I felt sad that...2021-01-0227 minCouched in ColorS1E19 (Part 1): As For Me, I Have to Stick with the Sistahs: Black Women Creatives and Mental Health with Nikki Webber Allen Earlier this week, I took a moment to reflect on Black women, our mental health, trauma, grief and recovery. I thought about Megan Thee Stallion and her traumatic experience with gun violence; the horrifying impacts of COVID-19 on Black women caring for children, spouses/partners, aging parents and working in essential professions (sometimes without PPE or other critical safety measures). My teen daughter brought it all home for me when she told me, "mom I feel like Black women are the most unprotected women in the world". It was heavy and I felt sad that...2021-01-0227 min
Couched in ColorS1E18: Helping Black and Diverse Men to Heal - A conversation with James Harris Given recent news about Kanye West, his very public concerns related to his bipolar disorder and his family's public battle to support him, this episode could not be more timely. I am joined today by Mr. James Harris, a therapist (with a masters in clinical mental health counseling) a trauma survivor, author and mens mental health expert. James very openly shared his lived experience as a ward of the state, a survivor of early childhood trauma, his military experiences and all of the life events that led him to want to heal and share his...2021-01-0231 minCouched in ColorS1E18: Helping Black and Diverse Men to Heal - A conversation with James Harris Given recent news about Kanye West, his very public concerns related to his bipolar disorder and his family's public battle to support him, this episode could not be more timely. I am joined today by Mr. James Harris, a therapist (with a masters in clinical mental health counseling) a trauma survivor, author and mens mental health expert. James very openly shared his lived experience as a ward of the state, a survivor of early childhood trauma, his military experiences and all of the life events that led him to want to heal and share his...2021-01-0231 min
Couched in ColorS1E17: Grief Across Cultures, Asian Mental Health and 13 Reasons Why - A Conversation with Dr. Helen Hsu Dr. Helen Hsu, a Stanford clinical psychologist, grief expert and expert consultant on the popular Nextflix show "13 Reasons Why" sat down with me to discuss mental health across cultures. Our conversation ranged from a vivid and enlightening discussion of how grief may look different in (what we know to be a highly diverse population) Asian and Asian American culture, to helping college students and their families manage mental health to the very popular TV show she consulted on and her thoughts on how we can be more honest, open and realistic about the mental health concerns of...2021-01-0233 minCouched in ColorS1E17: Grief Across Cultures, Asian Mental Health and 13 Reasons Why - A Conversation with Dr. Helen Hsu Dr. Helen Hsu, a Stanford clinical psychologist, grief expert and expert consultant on the popular Nextflix show "13 Reasons Why" sat down with me to discuss mental health across cultures. Our conversation ranged from a vivid and enlightening discussion of how grief may look different in (what we know to be a highly diverse population) Asian and Asian American culture, to helping college students and their families manage mental health to the very popular TV show she consulted on and her thoughts on how we can be more honest, open and realistic about the mental health concerns of...2021-01-0233 min
Couched in ColorS1E16: Dr. Bowen Chung on PoC, Big Data and the Mental Health Safety Net This week, I sat down with Dr. Bowen Chung, a psychiatrist at UCLA Harborview Medical Center to discuss psychiatric science, health disparities research, socioeconomic status and their intersections with mental health for people of color (specifically African American and Latinx underserved communities). Just a note: The video produced for this episode did not do Dr. Chung justice so when I received it, I decided it was best to not include it. This will be my only episode this season to not have both audio and video and I apologize to my audience for this. 2021-01-0232 minCouched in ColorS1E16: Dr. Bowen Chung on PoC, Big Data and the Mental Health Safety Net This week, I sat down with Dr. Bowen Chung, a psychiatrist at UCLA Harborview Medical Center to discuss psychiatric science, health disparities research, socioeconomic status and their intersections with mental health for people of color (specifically African American and Latinx underserved communities). Just a note: The video produced for this episode did not do Dr. Chung justice so when I received it, I decided it was best to not include it. This will be my only episode this season to not have both audio and video and I apologize to my audience for this. 2021-01-0232 min
Couched in ColorS1E15: Sam Bissonnette & Andy Riemer - We Must Be Honest: Decolonizing Mental Illness Together This week, we had a really timely discussion about what it means to be both in the fight for social justice and an ally. Our guests, Sam Bissonnette and Andy Riemer are 2 creatives and trailblazers using media, early childhood education, Asian American studies, masculinity and women's studies along with a wealth of lived experience and passion to make a difference in our world. Their work reflects the idea that we can never know a person's story just by looking at them and that we are all both person's impacted by social injustice and allies at...2021-01-0237 minCouched in ColorS1E15: Sam Bissonnette & Andy Riemer - We Must Be Honest: Decolonizing Mental Illness Together This week, we had a really timely discussion about what it means to be both in the fight for social justice and an ally. Our guests, Sam Bissonnette and Andy Riemer are 2 creatives and trailblazers using media, early childhood education, Asian American studies, masculinity and women's studies along with a wealth of lived experience and passion to make a difference in our world. Their work reflects the idea that we can never know a person's story just by looking at them and that we are all both person's impacted by social injustice and allies at...2021-01-0237 min
Couched in ColorS1E4: Social Media and Content Creation in Living Color Doctor Alfiee talks with Dr. Jacqueline Douge, MD, MPH, FAAP - Medical Director of the Bureau of Health Services in Howard County, MD. Jackie also hosts a weekly podcast, "What is Black", focusing on issues important to raising healthy and thriving Black children and adolescents. In this episode, she talks about how to promote health among people of color both at ground level, and in the media. Couched in Color, hosted by Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble, examines mental health issues in racially diverse populations, and centers on the needs of children, teens, young adults, families, and...2021-01-0232 minCouched in ColorS1E4: Social Media and Content Creation in Living Color Doctor Alfiee talks with Dr. Jacqueline Douge, MD, MPH, FAAP - Medical Director of the Bureau of Health Services in Howard County, MD. Jackie also hosts a weekly podcast, "What is Black", focusing on issues important to raising healthy and thriving Black children and adolescents. In this episode, she talks about how to promote health among people of color both at ground level, and in the media. Couched in Color, hosted by Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble, examines mental health issues in racially diverse populations, and centers on the needs of children, teens, young adults, families, and...2021-01-0232 min
Couched in ColorS1E3: Autism Speaks in Color Too This week, Dr. Alfiee chats with Dr. Cindy T. Graham, PhD, Founder of the Brighter Hope Wellness Center, who demystifies Autism Spectrum Disorder, and the stigma which accompanies it for millions on the "spectrum". She talks with Dr. Alfiee about her work, and how she helps children and adults with ASD and other developmental challenges. Couched in Color, hosted by Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble, examines mental health issues in racially diverse populations, and centers on the needs of children, teens, young adults, families, and communities.2021-01-0237 minCouched in ColorS1E3: Autism Speaks in Color Too This week, Dr. Alfiee chats with Dr. Cindy T. Graham, PhD, Founder of the Brighter Hope Wellness Center, who demystifies Autism Spectrum Disorder, and the stigma which accompanies it for millions on the "spectrum". She talks with Dr. Alfiee about her work, and how she helps children and adults with ASD and other developmental challenges. Couched in Color, hosted by Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble, examines mental health issues in racially diverse populations, and centers on the needs of children, teens, young adults, families, and communities.2021-01-0237 min
Couched in ColorS1E2: Listening To Our TeensCouched in Color, hosted by Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble, examines mental health issues in racially diverse populations, and centers on the needs of children, teens, young adults, families, and communities. Couched in Color spreads love and light, and is always informed by culturally-relevant science. In this episode, Doctor Alfiee chats with two young people about their concerns, their feelings, and their challenges in a confusing and competitive world.2021-01-0252 minCouched in ColorS1E2: Listening To Our TeensCouched in Color, hosted by Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble, examines mental health issues in racially diverse populations, and centers on the needs of children, teens, young adults, families, and communities. Couched in Color spreads love and light, and is always informed by culturally-relevant science. In this episode, Doctor Alfiee chats with two young people about their concerns, their feelings, and their challenges in a confusing and competitive world.2021-01-0252 min
Couched in ColorS1E1: "Love, And Why Young Men Don't Cry"Couched in Color, hosted by Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble, examines mental health issues in racially diverse populations, and centers on the needs of children, teens, young adults, families, and communities. Couched in Color spreads love and light, and is always informed by culturally-relevant science. This week, Dr. Alfiee has two special guests from Durham, NC. Kathy Williams, a retired educator and guidance counselor who lost her son to depression in 1996, and dedicates herself to counseling young people about their mental health. Kathy Springfield-Cobb, a retired school counselor, who talks about the myth that mental illness discriminates...2021-01-0241 minCouched in ColorS1E1: "Love, And Why Young Men Don't Cry"Couched in Color, hosted by Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble, examines mental health issues in racially diverse populations, and centers on the needs of children, teens, young adults, families, and communities. Couched in Color spreads love and light, and is always informed by culturally-relevant science. This week, Dr. Alfiee has two special guests from Durham, NC. Kathy Williams, a retired educator and guidance counselor who lost her son to depression in 1996, and dedicates herself to counseling young people about their mental health. Kathy Springfield-Cobb, a retired school counselor, who talks about the myth that mental illness discriminates...2021-01-0241 min
Couched in ColorYou Are Elegant: A Special CIC Episode w/Super Producer Mark "King" Batson This is a time of unprecedented stress regarding racial justice, police brutality, the election of 2020 and of course the Coronavirus. With all that is surrounding us, I wanted to bring you a special episode between seasons 1 and 2 (hence CIC EpS1.5). I am so excited for this special episode of my podcast called, "You Are Elegant: A Special CIC Episode w/Super Producer Mark "King" Batson" (on IG at @markbatsonrocks). Mark has just dropped a new album of uplifting and affirming songs and I'm here to tell you it is awesome (you can find it right here...2020-10-0847 min
Couched in ColorCouched in Color Ep 20 (Part 2) - As For Me, I Have to Stick with the Sistahs: Black Women Creatives and Mental Health with Nikki Webber Allen (Part 2 of my conversation with the shining light Nikki Webber Allen) This final episode of the season, part 2 of 2 parts, is particularly powerful and remains relevant for me and the CIC crew. Nikki Webber Allen is an Emmy award winning producer with a Ted Talk (yes THE TED Talk), currently at 2.3 million views and counting. Nikki talks openly about her own experiences with mental health, she describes her devastating loss of a loved one to mental illness and she openly shares with our audience her coping strategies, means of support and efforts to empower other th...2020-08-0600 minCouched in ColorCouched in Color Ep 19 (Part 1) - As For Me, I Have to Stick with the Sistahs: Black Women Creatives and Mental Health with Nikki Webber Allen Earlier this week, I took a moment to reflect on Black women, our mental health, trauma, grief and recovery. I thought about Megan Thee Stallion and her traumatic experience with gun violence; the horrifying impacts of COVID-19 on Black women caring for children, spouses/partners, aging parents and working in essential professions (sometimes without PPE or other critical safety measures). My teen daughter brought it all home for me when she told me, "mom I feel like Black women are the most unprotected women in the world". It was heavy and I felt sad that ev...2020-07-3000 minCouched in ColorHelping Black and Diverse Men to Heal - A conversation with James Harris Given recent news about Kanye West, his very public concerns related to his bipolar disorder and his family's public battle to support him, this episode could not be more timely. I am joined today by Mr. James Harris, a therapist (with a masters in clinical mental health counseling) a trauma survivor, author and mens mental health expert. James very openly shared his lived experience as a ward of the state, a survivor of early childhood trauma, his military experiences and all of the life events that led him to want to heal and share his...2020-07-2300 minCouched in ColorGrief Across Cultures, Asian Mental Health and 13 Reasons Why - A Conversation with Dr. Helen Hsu Dr. Helen Hsu, a Stanford clinical psychologist, grief expert and expert consultant on the popular Nextflix show "13 Reasons Why" sat down with me to discuss mental health across cultures. Our conversation ranged from a vivid and enlightening discussion of how grief may look different in (what we know to be a highly diverse population) Asian and Asian American culture, to helping college students and their families manage mental health to the very popular TV show she consulted on and her thoughts on how we can be more honest, open and realistic about the mental health co...2020-07-1600 minCouched in ColorDr. Bowen Chung on PoC, Big Data and the Mental Health Safety Net This week, I sat down with Dr. Bowen Chung, a psychiatrist at UCLA Harborview Medical Center to discuss psychiatric science, health disparities research, socioeconomic status and their intersections with mental health for people of color (specifically African American and Latinx underserved communities). Just a note: The video produced for this episode did not do Dr. Chung justice so when I received it, I decided it was best to not include it. This will be my only episode this season to not have both audio and video and I apologize to my audience for this. ...2020-07-0900 minCouched in ColorSam Bissonnette & Andy Riemer - We Must Be Honest: Decolonizing Mental Illness Together This week, we had a really timely discussion about what it means to be both in the fight for social justice and an ally. Our guests, Sam Bissonnette and Andy Riemer are 2 creatives and trailblazers using media, early childhood education, Asian American studies, masculinity and women's studies along with a wealth of lived experience and passion to make a difference in our world. Their work reflects the idea that we can never know a person's story just by looking at them and that we are all both person's impacted by social injustice and allies at...2020-07-0200 minCouched in ColorVanessa Adebayo on Making a Difference Worldwide in Black Communities This week, we focus on global mental health in the African Diaspora. Our guest, Vanessa Adebayo, imagined and created a nonprofit focused on the health (including mental health) of our brothers and sisters in Africa. She implements conferences throughout the continent to raise awareness and stress the need for caring for our mental health. she also deploys health ambassadors as part of her Africa's Health Matters nonprofit initiative. Her work is essential and reflects the worldwide need for culturally relevant, accessible care. One of Vanessa's goals is to teach people that seeking care for yourself (so that...2020-06-2500 minCouched in ColorCouched in Color E11: Angel White, Striving While Black and Femme: Black Girls, High Expectations and Mental Health Angel White, Community Manager at Industrious, tells Dr. Alfiee about the additional pressures and expectations as a Black woman forging a business career. 2020-06-1100 minCouched in ColorCouched in Color 10: Charlamagne Tha God on Mental Health The "Breakfast Club" host opens up to Dr. Alfiee about his battle with anxiety, and how he's learned to take care of his mental, as well as physical, health. They also discuss the growing anti-racism movement, and the controversial comments made by former Vice President Joe Biden during their interview last month. 2020-06-0400 minCouched in ColorCaring for Your American Soul with Tony Cornelius This week, Dr. Alfiee meets TV Producer and mental health advocate Tony Cornelius, creator of the hit BET show “American Soul", which like our episode 9, premieres this week. American Soul chronicles the story behind his father Don Cornelius’s iconic TV music and dance show, "Soul Train" which became one of the longest-running syndicated programs in American television history. Tony is a gifted storyteller and charismatic advocate for suicide prevention in diverse communities. He began this work after the tragic loss of his famous father Don who died by suicide in 2012. Channeling his grief, Tony launched the...2020-05-2700 minCouched in ColorCouched in Color E8: Men, Boys and Mental Health: Let Them Live (and Be Quiet) Dr. Erlanger ‘Earl’ Turner, Ph.D. is an author, licensed psychologist, and a leading authority on parenting, mental health, multicultural psychology, and diversity and inclusion training. He tells Dr. Alfiee about the challenges faced by young men of color, who are often encouraged from an early age to conceal their true emotions.2020-05-2100 minCouched in ColorCouched in Color E7: Kimberly Berry on the heartache of parents raising a child with emotional special needs Kimberly Berry - host of the "Being UnNormal" podcast, tells Doctor Alfiee about the struggle parents face in raising a child with emotional special needs, and the frustration in finding and receiving the right kind of support - especially in the age of COVID-192020-05-1400 minCouched in ColorJessica Orenstein on grit, and the pressure to succeed as a woman of color After working in Higher Education, Jessica Orenstein joined the Jed Foundation, which empowers teens and young adults with the skills and support to grow into healthy, thriving adults. She chats with Dr. Alfiee about growing up with "grit", and feeling additional pressure to succeed as a woman of color. Jessica grew up in the suburb of Belleville, Illinois and completed both her B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders, and M.S. in Public Health – Behavioral Science and Health Education, at Saint Louis University in St. Louis, Missouri. The conversation took place before the "Stay in Pl...2020-05-0700 minCouched in ColorEpisode 5: Communication, Affirmators and Trolls Too: Celebrity Parenting in ColorDr. Alfiee chats with comedian, actor, writer and podcaster Ron Funches about his life: from growing up in an abusive household, to single-parenting his son, who is living with autism. Ron has empowering advice for the young people of color who are suffering mental health challenges in the Coronavirus age.2020-04-3000 minCouched in ColorCouched in Color E4: Social Media and Content Creation in Living Color Doctor Alfiee talks with Dr. Jacqueline Douge, MD, MPH, FAAP - Medical Director of the Bureau of Health Services in Howard County, MD. Jackie also hosts a weekly podcast, "What is Black", focusing on issues important to raising healthy and thriving Black children and adolescents. In this episode, she talks about how to promote health among people of color both at ground level, and in the media. Couched in Color, hosted by Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble, examines mental health issues in racially diverse populations, and centers on the needs of children, teens, young adults, fa...2020-04-2300 minCouched in ColorCouched in Color E3: Autism Speaks in Color Too This week, Dr. Alfiee chats with Dr. Cindy T. Graham, PhD, Founder of the Brighter Hope Wellness Center, who demystifies Autism Spectrum Disorder, and the stigma which accompanies it for millions on the "spectrum". She talks with Dr. Alfiee about her work, and how she helps children and adults with ASD and other developmental challenges. Couched in Color, hosted by Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble, examines mental health issues in racially diverse populations, and centers on the needs of children, teens, young adults, families, and communities.2020-04-1600 minCouched in ColorCouched in Color Episode 2: Listening To Our TeensCouched in Color, hosted by Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble, examines mental health issues in racially diverse populations, and centers on the needs of children, teens, young adults, families, and communities. Couched in Color spreads love and light, and is always informed by culturally-relevant science. In this episode, Doctor Alfiee chats with two young people about their concerns, their feelings, and their challenges in a confusing and competitive world.2020-04-0900 minCouched in ColorLove, and Why Young Men Don't CryCouched in Color, hosted by Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble, examines mental health issues in racially diverse populations, and centers on the needs of children, teens, young adults, families, and communities. Couched in Color spreads love and light, and is always informed by culturally-relevant science. This week, Dr. Alfiee has two special guests from Durham, NC. Kathy Williams, a retired educator and guidance counselor who lost her son to depression in 1996, and dedicates herself to counseling young people about their mental health. Kathy Springfield-Cobb, a retired school counselor, who talks about the myth that mental illness discriminates...2020-04-0200 min