Shows
3 Parallels PodcastHow to be in the Moment with PB & EliseDescription: In this episode, Dr. Branch connects with his DC family—PB No J and Elise—for a meaningful and wide-ranging conversation sparked by their shared experience at a Button Masher concert at the Pie Factory in DC.PB and Elise reflect on how they met, how they've built a lasting platonic friendship, and what it takes to sustain a connection in a world that often misunderstands it. Together, they explore the power of stepping outside your comfort zone, choosing what works for you, and living outside the limits of other people’s standards.The...2025-08-1152 min3 Parallels PodcastBreadcrumbs in D.C. Button Masher VibesIn this solo episode, Dr. Branch opens up about what it means to be an empath in a noisy world. After feeling overstimulated at a conference, he made the unexpected decision to leave early and roam the streets of Washington D.C. What started as a quiet escape turned into a personal adventure filled with unexpected lessons, inner dialogue, and moments of reflection.Through exploring the city, Dr. Branch found breadcrumbs that led him back to himself. He paused often, connected with the 3 Parallels, and asked, What would the future version of me do right now? Along the way, he...2025-08-0736 min3 Parallels PodcastWhat I Wish I Knew at 14 featuring Mr. Martin SimmsIn this intimate episode, Dr. Branch sits down with Mr. Martin Simms for a vulnerable conversation about pain, purpose, and perseverance. At just 14, Martin witnessed a traumatic event that shaped his life in unexpected ways. He opens up about navigating grief, depression, and the challenge of growing up while carrying emotional weight no child should bear. Through therapy and a willingness to try things he had never done before, Martin developed deeper emotional intelligence and learned to trust himself. His journey explores the impact of sports, the power of dreaming beyond one's environment, and his connection to Dr. Bruce...2025-08-041h 053 Parallels PodcastMr. Gordon Cotrell: Malcolm Jamal WarnerIn this heartfelt episode, Dr. Branch reflects on the profound loss of Malcolm-Jamal Warner, known to many as Theo Huxtable from The Cosby Show. With a heavy heart, he honors the legacy of both the actor and the character that shaped generations. Dr. Branch opens up about how Theo’s presence on screen mirrored parts of his own journey and inspired a sense of possibility for Black boys and families across the country.This episode explores the deeper meaning behind The Cosby Show—a show that painted a picture of a loving, intelligent, emotionally attuned Black household with a doctor...2025-07-3126 min3 Parallels Podcast3-Hour Eulogy: The Life and Layers of Mr. Kevin CarterIn this episode, Dr. Branch sits down with Kevin Carter—a true jack of all trades. He’s a content creator, business owner, software engineer, comedian, entertainer, rapper, and scholar. Kevin does it all, and instead of trying to write it out, we let him tell it.Kevin opens up about living a life so full that he hopes his eulogy lasts three hours—not from ego, but because of how deeply he’s committed to creating impact. He talks about intentionally stepping into discomfort to grow, pushing himself into new lanes, and living in a way that leaves real rip...2025-07-2857 min3 Parallels Podcast3 Parallels of Cars: "All Black Peanut Butter GutsIn this episode of The 3 Parallels Podcast, Dr. Jason Branch takes us on a ride that’s about much more than cars. It’s a personal and reflective journey through identity, growth, and how the things we desire often mirror the version of ourselves we’re either running from or growing into. Dr. Branch opens up about his long-standing relationship with cars not just as machines, but as symbols of aspiration, struggle, status, and transformation. He shares vivid stories about the cars he always wanted as a kid, the ones he worked hard to earn, and the dream cars that sti...2025-07-2440 min3 Parallels PodcastGator Mode: Black Girl Magic with Dr. Janelle JonesIn this powerful and personal, and hilarious episode, Dr. Branch is in the living room with Dr. Janelle Jones for a candid conversation about identity, purpose, and the journey. Dr. Jones opens up about her experience moving straight through school into academia, shaped by cultural expectations and personal drive. But life had other plans. She shares what led her to step away, take a deep breath, and choose herself.From traveling to nine countries, reconnecting with family, and embracing solitude, to wrestling with the job market and tuning in to her future self, Dr. Jones walks us through her decision...2025-07-2156 min
Continuing Education for Mental Health Counselors: Therapy Show with Lisa MustardBurnout Prevention and Self-Care for Therapists: The Gator Life Framework with Dr. Jason Branch | Continuing education for mental health professionals | Podcourse | BoundariesIf you are a therapist or counselor looking for continuing education, check out my NBCC Approved $5 Podcourses and other continuing education offerings.Plus, get your first Podcourse half off. Purchase this Podcourse here! Helping professionals, including students, counselors, and counselor educators, often pour into others while neglecting their own needs. Serving in multiple roles can enhance the lives of clients. However, without consistent self-investment, it can also lead to increased stress, depression, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion. Over time, the lack of boundaries and self-care may negatively impact both personal health and professional relationships. Thi...2025-07-171h 103 Parallels PodcastYou Invest in What You Value: Save the ManateesIn this unforgettable episode of The 3 Parallels Podcast, Dr. Jason Branch doesn’t just talk transformation, he embodies it. Through a bold and creative moment of self-reflection, Dr. Branch steps fully into the framework of the Three Parallels by becoming all three versions of himself: past, present, and future. What unfolds is a robust, unscripted conversation across time—his future self speaking life, clarity, and truth to his younger self, while his present self connects the dots in real time. This episode is layered, alive, and deeply human. Dr. Branch weaves his recent ADHD diagnosis into the mix, unpacking what it m...2025-07-1742 min3 Parallels PodcastCompassion Fatigue & Burnout = Cakebread | with The Dr. Jason BranchIn this intimate episode of The 3 Parallels Podcast, Dr. Jason Branch takes you below the basement and inside the wine cellar for a vulnerable reflection on life, growth, and purpose from the lens of his 43rd birthday. Sharing stories of burnout, resilience, and reinvention, Dr. Branch opens up about a pivotal chapter when he stepped away from the helping profession and found unexpected clarity while serving as a bartender at a private country club. It was there he discovered Cakebread Cellers Chardonnay, a symbol that now carries deeper personal meaning. He unpacks how this wine became a metaphor for transformation...2025-07-1455 min3 Parallels PodcastI'm Not Coming Out. I'm Welcoming People In | with Lewis JohnsonIn this powerful episode of The 3 Parallels Podcast, Dr. Jason Branch is joined by Dr. Lewis Johnson for a conversation that explores identity, healing, fatherhood, and what it truly means to grow. Lewis shares his journey of becoming a father through adoption, but it’s not just about parenthood. It’s about breaking cycles, confronting childhood trauma, and becoming the kind of man he didn’t always see growing up. They explore the intersections of race, sexuality, masculinity, and vulnerability, with Lewis speaking openly about navigating life as a Black gay man. He reflects on the shift from hiding parts...2025-07-101h 083 Parallels PodcastParadigm Shifts and the Power of Perspective: A Conversation with Dr. Julie CosenzaIn this episode of The 3 Parallels Podcast, Dr. Jason Branch sits down with Dr. Julie Cosenza to explore who they were, who they are, and who they are becoming. Julie reflects on pivotal moments from their undergraduate years to present day, sharing personal insights that shaped their understanding of identity, race, and culture.They discuss early experiences with race relations, unpacking the impact of white privilege, white fragility, and the myth of white civility. As a non-binary, queer person, Julie also opens up about navigating gender identity, embracing queer theory, and the freedom that comes with choosing authenticity over e...2025-07-0747 min3 Parallels PodcastCelebrating Pride Month: 10 Toes DownDescription: Dr. Branch takes listeners on a personal and powerful journey through the 3 Parallels: Who he was, who he is, and who he is becoming. In this podcast, Dr. Branch opens up about his own story. how past beliefs around toxic masculinity shaped the way he saw himself, others, and the world around him.He shares how his views were formed by what he was taught and told about manhood, and how those ideas began to shift through education, exposure to diverse lived experiences, and a deep commitment to self-discovery. With honesty and vulnerability, Dr. Branch reflects on ho...2025-07-0337 min3 Parallels PodcastGive yourself Permission to Be Human | Ft. Grace SchroederDescription: In this powerful episode of The 3 Parallels Podcast, Dr. Branch welcomes Grace Schroeder a former student, emerging therapist, and current graduate student who opens up about her deeply personal and transformative journey. From growing up within a religious framework to finding her voice in the therapeutic space, Grace shares how she learned to live in the gray, challenge black-and-white thinking, and give herself permission to be fully human.Grace speaks candidly about the evolution of her identity, the courage to embrace duality, and how theory and spirituality don’t have to compete, they can coexist. She reflects on...2025-06-3048 min3 Parallels PodcastFrom Culinary Arts to Counselor: The Recipe for Becoming HIM | Ft. Mr. David BarnesIn this powerful and deeply personal episode of The 3 Parallels Podcast, Dr. Jason Branch sits down with his brother from another mother, Future Dr. Mr. David Barnes. Together, they explore David’s transformational journey. Growing up without fully recognizing his brilliance, struggling in school, and learning to embrace his unique lens on life. From culinary arts to the school counseling profession, David found purpose in giving to others what he once needed himself. David opens up about seeing the world differently, connecting martial arts to mental health, and confronting limiting beliefs that once held him back. He shares how self-help bo...2025-06-2657 min3 Parallels PodcastBecoming the Best Version of myselfIn this inspiring episode of The 3 Parallels Podcast, Dr. Jason Branch sits down with Erin Odin, a healthcare sourcing specialist whose past year has been nothing short of transformative. Erin shares her journey of navigating grief, relationship challenges, and emotional overwhelm—only to rise into a new season of growth, healing, and self-discovery. Erin opens up about what it means to let go of control, embrace patience as a single mother, and stop shrinking herself out of fear. From landing a job promotion with remote flexibility to taking a life-changing trip to the West Coast and stepping into her dream ho...2025-06-2349 min3 Parallels PodcastRipples & Breadcrumbs: Trusting the Journey and Creating ImpactDescription: In this reflective solo episode of The 3 Parallels Podcast, Dr. Jason Branch dives into the powerful metaphors of “ripples” and “breadcrumbs” to explore how small actions and subtle moments shape our lives.Ripples are the waves we create through our choices—intentional or not. Breadcrumbs are the hidden clues, opportunities, and quiet whispers of meaning we often overlook in the busyness of life. Dr. Branch challenges us to stay curious, step outside our comfort zones, and pay attention to what’s unfolding right in front of us.He shares a touching story about meeting a young guitarist in a park—an...2025-06-1935 min3 Parallels PodcastFaith, Culture & Finding Self: Dr. Amber Khan’s Journey to Authenticity and Healing | Ft. Dr. Amber KhanIn this powerful episode of The 3 Parallels Podcast, Dr. Branch sits down with Dr. Amber Khan, Program Manager at NBCC and a legend within the Minority Fellowship Program, to explore identity, healing, and purpose. As a South Asian, Muslim immigrant woman in the counseling profession, Dr. Khan shares her deeply personal journey of carving her path outside of traditional academia and stepping into the helping profession on her terms.Dr. Khan opens up about her struggles with authenticity, feeling like a “robot” in her early professional years, and the pivotal moment when therapy became a doorway to discovering her true self...2025-06-1655 min
The Vibe With Ky PodcastS6-E25: "Self-Care Isn’t Selfish: Tips from Dr. Jason Branch" | The Vibe With Ky PodcastFeeling guilty for resting? You’re not alone, and this episode is here to challenge that mindset.In this episode of The Vibe With Ky Podcast, we’re talking about what self-care really means, especially for people juggling stress, burnout, or just everyday life.I’m joined by Dr. Jason Branch, a licensed therapist, professor, speaker, and host of The 3 Parallels Podcast. With over 16 years of experience, Jason helps break down self-care in a way that’s honest, practical, and deeply human. We talk about the difference between coping and healing, why rest feels so hard for...2025-06-131h 013 Parallels PodcastGator Mentor Session: Turtle Out the Shell with Miles MedinaIn this deeply moving mentor session, Dr. Branch sits down with his mentee, Miles Medina a first-generation graduate student in counseling to unpack the real and raw emotions behind reaching out to people on “a higher level,” like professors and PhDs. Miles opens up about the fear of rejection, imposter syndrome, and the weight of academic validation. He shares the pressure of being 1 of 1—the only person in the room who looks like him—and the burden of representing his culture and community in every step forward.Dr. Branch challenges Miles to take the risk of being himself, even whe...2025-06-1244 min3 Parallels PodcastBecoming the Woman I Was Looking For | Ft Tahirah Gaillard Description: In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Dr. Branch sits down with Tahirah Gaillard to explore her deeply personal and transformative journey into the counseling profession. From rocking big earrings, jeans, and Jordans to discovering her true purpose in the listening spaces of education, Tahirah shares how she realized she was the woman she had been looking for all along.Tahirah opens up about her early career in education, where she realized her most significant connection was not just teaching, but truly hearing her students. She saw parts of herself in their struggles, which ultimately l...2025-06-0954 min3 Parallels PodcastThe Arenas Do Not Change…We Do! | Ft Nan WangDescription: In this captivating episode of The 3 Parallels Podcast, Dr. Jason Branch sits down with Nan Wang, a mental health counseling student and entrepreneur with a dynamic professional journey. From business consulting to the world of counseling, Nan shares her courageous shift into the helping profession, revealing what it means to follow your curiosity and evolve with purpose.With refreshing honesty, Nan opens up about:Her transition across industries and the lessons learned along the wayOvercoming self-criticism and embracing imperfectionThe importance of boldness when chasing meaningful workHow intentional choices and vulnerability shape personal and professional growthThis epis...2025-06-0553 min3 Parallels PodcastLegacy: Creating Your Own Path to Offer a Bridge | Ft. Dr. Matt Englar-CarlsonDescription: In this heartfelt and insightful episode, Dr. Jason Branch sits down with Matt Angler Carlson, a renowned counselor educator and mental health professional, for a deeply personal conversation about identity, emotional intelligence, and living with intention.Matt opens up about growing up in a “psychological family,” where his father’s work in counseling laid the foundation for his own emotional development and career path. From early experiences with ADHD to his lifelong commitment to authenticity and transparency, Matt shares the pivotal moments that have shaped his personal and professional journey.Together, they explore:The emotional complexity of growing up i...2025-06-021h 013 Parallels PodcastADHD and Advocacy: Growing, Winning, and SharingDescription: What happens when life doesn’t follow the script and you decide to rewrite it anyway?In this powerful and deeply personal episode of The 3 Parallels Podcast, Dr. Jason Branch sits down with Rachel, a former student turned licensed therapist, who shares her courageous journey of transformation. From navigating a chronic illness and discovering her neurodivergence, to stepping into her purpose as a mental health professional, Rachel unpacks what it means to evolve, risk, and reclaim identity on your own terms.This episode dives into the raw, real, and often overlooked intersections of chronic illness, feminism, kink cul...2025-05-2922 min3 Parallels PodcastMy ADHD be AHD'ing | Ft. Vibe with KyDisclaimer The content of this podcast is for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. The information shared, including any materials linked from this podcast or website, is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a physician, therapist, coach, or other qualified professional. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are my own and do not reflect those of any organizations or affiliations. This podcast is designed for edutainment—a blend of education and entertainment. Viewer and listener discretion is advised.Description: Host Dr. Jason Branch sits down with Kai, a multi-tale...2025-05-271h 023 Parallels PodcastThe Beach and the Sandbox: ADHDDescription: In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Jason Branch breaks down his original concept of "The beach and the sandbox." The beach represents freedom, possibility, and expansive thinking. The sandbox? Restrictive rules, outdated systems, and the pressure to fit into boxes that were never built for us. Dr. Branch shares two deeply personal experiences that bring this metaphor to life. Despite holding a PhD and over 20 years of counseling experience, Dr. Jason Branch was denied licensure in California due to a rigid, time-pressured exam that didn’t reflect his true competence. At 40+, he was also diagnosed with ADHD (combined type), recognizing his...2025-05-2234 min3 Parallels PodcastBecoming Rachel: Neurodivergence & Radical Self-Discovery | Ft Rachel LevittDescription: What happens when life doesn’t follow the script and you decide to rewrite it anyway?In this powerful and deeply personal episode of The 3 Parallels Podcast, Dr. Jason Branch sits down with Rachel, a former student turned licensed therapist, who shares her courageous journey of transformation. From navigating a chronic illness and discovering her neurodivergence, to stepping into her purpose as a mental health professional, Rachel unpacks what it means to evolve, risk, and reclaim identity on your own terms.This episode dives into the raw, real, and often overlooked intersections of chronic illness, feminism, kink cu...2025-05-1938 min3 Parallels PodcastThe Gator Vs The Salamander WebinarDescription: Join Dr. Branch in this reflective and energizing episode of The 3 Parallels Podcast as he guides listeners through the powerful metaphor of The Salamander and the Gator. Framed by the 3 Parallels—Who We Were, Who We Are, and Who We Are Becoming—this episode captures a live webinar with Master’s-level counseling students and members of Chi Sigma Iota, an international honor society for clinicians. Dr. Branch unpacks the ESPM Model of self-care emotional, spiritual, physical, and mental wellness while addressing how clinicians can protect their peace, reduce burnout, and reconnect with purpose. Packed with real talk, practical w...2025-05-1554 min3 Parallels PodcastMom is the Proudest Title that I Have | Ft. Alanah MeltonDescription: In this heartfelt episode of The 3 Parallels Podcast, Dr. Jason Branch sits down with long-time friend and professional colleague, Alanah Melton, for a powerful conversation about healing, growth, and authenticity. Alanah shares her journey through therapy, single motherhood, and public service—including her work with Birmingham’s youth and her current role in the mayor’s office addressing homelessness. With honesty and vulnerability, she reflects on setting boundaries, navigating her relationship with her mother, and the transformative power of mental health support. This episode is a rich exploration of self-discovery, resilience, and the intentional path toward becoming your truest...2025-05-1255 min3 Parallels PodcastAs a Therapist: You can be on either side of the couchDescription: In this episode, Dr. Branch shares a transformative moment from his therapeutic journey with a courageous client named Gin. What started as a simple call-in about a broken office chair turned into a deeper conversation about worth, boundaries, and mutual growth. Dr. Branch unpacks how that single moment became a mirror—pushing him to reflect, adjust, and grow both personally and professionally.This episode is a masterclass in how therapy isn’t a one-way street. It’s a shared space where both therapist and client stretch, learn, and elevate. With honesty, humor, and vulnerability, Dr. Branch remind...2025-05-0833 min3 Parallels PodcastGator Mentor Session: "Send the Email"Description: In this episode, Dr. Branch connects with one of his mentees, Miles—a graduate student in a Clinical Mental Health Counseling program and a powerful one-of-one navigating academic and professional spaces as an individual from an Indigenous community. Together, they dive into the internal battles Miles is facing, including imposter syndrome and the weight of perfectionism. Dr. Branch helps him separate facts from beliefs, challenges him to lean into his authentic self, and reminds him that the goal isn’t to fit in—but to figure out what works best for him. This conversation is real, reflective, and full of t...2025-05-0544 min3 Parallels PodcastBalloon and the StringDescription: Dr. Branch takes the listeners on a journey where you're either a balloon or a string floating freely or anchored firmly to the ground. I'm Jason Branch, and today I'm going to tell you about discovering who you really are. Balloon people are dreamers. They're the entrepreneurs, the creatives who float through life, taking risks and creating their own path. String people are different they're structured, methodical, preferring stability and predictable routes. But here's the magic: we're all a bit of both. You need to understand your head and your heart, aligning them to become your most...2025-05-0131 min3 Parallels PodcastCulturally Made, Self-Defined | Ft. Sydney & RheaDisclaimer The content of this podcast is for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. The information shared, including any materials linked from this podcast or website, is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a physician, therapist, coach, or other qualified professional. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are my own and do not reflect those of any organizations or affiliations. This podcast is designed for edutainment—a blend of education and entertainment. Viewer and listener discretion is advised.Description: Dr. Branch sits down with two of his former students...2025-04-281h 043 Parallels PodcastClass in Session: Working with Black ClientsDescription: Dr. Jason Branch takes listeners on a transformative journey of self-discovery and cultural competence in counseling. Dr. Branch is interviewed by Dr. Catherine Bishop to share perspectives with her multicultural counseling class in the Clinical Mental Health Program at Alliant International University. Speaking with passion and candor, he challenges mental health professionals to dig deep into their personal biases and confront the uncomfortable truths hidden in their metaphorical "basement" of unresolved beliefs. Using vivid analogies of a house with its attic, living room, and basement, Dr. Branch illustrates how personal growth requires intentional exploration of one's inner la...2025-04-2424 min3 Parallels PodcastBlack Men Do Go To Therapy | Ft. Kenny CarterDescription: Dr. Jason Branch interviews future Dr. Kenneth Carter, in a deeply personal conversation about personal growth, emotional intelligence, and the transformative power of therapy. Kenny shares his journey from growing up in Dayton, Ohio, in a challenging environment to becoming a successful professional in California. He describes his initial emotional limitations - being stuck in a mindset of only expressing anger or laughter - and how moving away from his hometown became a catalyst for personal transformation.The most profound part of the conversation centers on Kenny's experience with therapy. He candidly discusses how he...2025-04-211h 02