Fireflies Unite Podcast With Kea

It’s a “Cole” world. Listen as Kea discusses and analyzes J.Cole’s performance at the 2018 BET Awards as he highlights addiction, trauma and mental health. Kalyn also stops by to school us on the benefits of essential oils and shares her story of living with bipolar disorder. References/Resources:J.Cole’s BET Performance: https://www.bet.com/video/betawards/2018/performances/j-cole-daniel-caesar-wale-perform.html Essential Oils Starters Kit: lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint, frankincense, rose, lemongrassEssential Oils Book: https://www.amazon.com/Essential-Oils-Natural-Remedies-Reference/dp/1623154243Kalyn’s Blog (You Are Light): https://www.youarealight.co/blog-1/2017/11/8/losing-my-balanceMeet Kalyn: Ka’Lyn T. Coghill, M.A. is an adjunct lecturer in the Department of Communications at Bowie State University. Her research consists of the study of Black women, coded language, and how it incites violence towards these women in digital spaces. She uses Twitter, Facebook, and other social media platforms as a d

Have you ever wondered how to help someone with mental illness but don't know how? The Buddy Project maybe for you. This week’s episode features Gabby Frost of the Buddy Project, a non-profit movement that aims to prevent suicide and self-harm by pairing people as buddies and raising awareness for mental health. The Buddy Project is an awesome resource and has many ways for you to support those with mental illness. The Buddy Project is also a sponsor for Save Our Babies.References/Resources:The Buddy Project Website:http://www.buddy-project.org/ The Buddy Project Social Media:Twitter: www.twitter.com/buddyproject Instagram: www.instagram.com/buddyproject Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/buddyprojectorg/ Save Our Babies Tickets: Option 1: https://saveourbabies.eventcreate.com/ Ticket Option 2: https://saveourbabiesffu.eventbrite.comFollow Us @firefliespod on Facebook, Twitter & InstagramSend All Inquiries to podcast@firefliesunite.com

What would you do if you were offered a recording contract with one of your favorite celebrities/producers but were recently diagnosed with a mental illness?  Would you neglect your mental health for fame and fortune, or choose your mental health?Our guest singer and songwriter Jermaine “Nate” Tolbert is no stranger to the music industry and making sacrifices and has an amazing story. After being diagnosed with schizophrenia and depression, he walked away from a contract with Grammy Award-Winner Pharrell Williams.References/Resources:Connect with Jermaine & Listen To His MusicTwitter: Nate__Hancock, IG: Jermaine_TolbertSoundcloud: Soundcloud.com/nate-callowayFacebook: www.facebook.com/TheRealNateCallowayShare Your Story & Audition For This Is My Brave:https://calendly.com/thisismybravearlington/auditions/06-28-2018 Save Our Babies Tickets:Ticket Option 1: https://saveourbabies.eventcreate.com/ or Ticket Option 2: https://saveourbabiesffu.eventbrite.com Therapist Shout-Out: Black Men Find Your Therapi

In the words of Pretty Ricky for all of us from the era of B2k & Bow Wow..."let’s talk about sex baby." Did you know that sex and love addictions are real? On this week’s episode, Kea is not cutting corners. It gets juicy as Kea speaks with Shena Tubbs a therapist who specializes in love and sex addiction, and codependency. Shena is the creator/host of The Love Junkie Podcast and offers resources and comfort for those who struggle with these addictions. She lets them know their addiction is not their fault. This episode will make you think twice before you call someone a whore, hoe, slut or THOT. References/Resources: Shena’s Personal Site: http://www.shenathetherapist.com Black Girls Heal: http://www.blackgirlsheal.org The Love Junkie Podcast: http://www.shenathetherapist.com/lovejunkie/ Instagram: @_blackgirlsheal & @shenathetherapist Twitter: @shenatubbs Facebook: Shena TubbsMeetings/FellowshipsSex and Love Addicts Anonymouswww.SLAA-fws.org Freedom Course By Shena: Freedom Course - shena

“#Securethebag” is what we constantly see and hear on social media yet so many of us are unfilled and putting on a facade. Did you know that there is a connection between your finances and mental health? So, if you want to really secure the bag, make sure your mental health is in check!In fact, some individuals with bipolar disorder go on shopping splurges when they are in a manic episode. 86% of people who participated in a Money and Mental Health survey of nearly 5,500 people said that their financial situation made their mental health problems worse. Financial difficulties are linked to low mood, anxiety, guilt, panic attacks, insomnia, suicide ideation, and self-harm. Not to mention, stress can cause a heart attack and so many other health problems.To help me with today’s episode, I am joined with American’s Money Maven & Financial Expert Patrice Washington of The Redefining Wealth Podcast. Patrice is a nationally recognized best-selling author, featured columnist, television commentator, transformati

Keeping up with the faith and mental health theme, this week's episode discusses resources for those of the Christian faith with Faith & Wellness Influncer & App Creator Brittney Moses! This week's topic also serves as the mind, body and soulness segment. Brittney Moses is passionate about seeing this generation live on purpose. The Los Angeles native is currently a Clinical Psychology Major advancing into the fields of Therapy and Mental Health. However, her favorite part of life is being called Mommy to her sweet son Austin. Brittney's mission exists around encouraging genuine faith and mental wellness for healthy everyday living. Don't forget to download Brittney's faith and mental wellness app which is available on Apple & Android devices!References/Resources:Brittney’s Website:http://brittneyamoses.com/ Connect With Brittney On Social Media:Twitter: https://twitter.com/brittney_mosesIG: https://www.instagram.com/brittneymoses/FB: https://www.facebook.com/BrittneyAMos

What do you do when prayer is not enough? In this episode, Kea dives into her recent experience of how doing a devotional was triggering for her and offer suggestions on how those a part of the Christian faith can help people with a mental illness. During the mind, body and soulness segment, Kea shares a new podcast she discovered as a resource for those who are first generation college graduates and those struggling to find their purpose. Check Out The Purpose University Podcasthttps://www.evehudsonphd.com/podcast.htmJoin Kea on her Twitter Chats: Every Monday For The Month of May Use hashtags #MHmonday #BlackMHOn Thursday, May 24 at 8pm ET, #ElevateTheConvoReferences/Resources:Find A Therapist Here:ADAA: https://adaa.org/ Therapy For Black Girls: https://therapyforblackgirls.com Psychology Today: www.psychologytoday.com Listen To Kea Speak on June 2nd: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/turn-the-light-on-baltimore-tickets-42930128169

This week’s episode features Grammy Award Winning Gospel duo "Mary Mary" baby sister Shanta Atkins. After overcoming her person struggles with depression, being a support to her peers who overcame suicide and providing counseling to teen girls, Shanta’s shares why she birthed her new single “God Sees You” that tackles mental health. The words to the song are powerful and needed for such a time as this. It will encourage you to hold onto your faith and remind you that your life is worth fighting for. Meet Shanta Atkins!Shanta is the youngest of nine children and is no stranger to the world of the music. Sister to the Grammy Award winning Gospel duo "Mary Mary", she has always been surrounded and intricately involved in the music industry since childhood. She has performed on the Soul Train Awards, BET Awards, Jay Leno Show, Arsenio Hall Show and for Oprah Winfrey. She can be heard on recorded projects with Kanye West, Mary Mary, Jason Champion, Al Green and Dorinda Clark-Cole. She has sung

In this potluck episode, Kea dives into a lot from hip-hop and mental health where she discusses J.Cole, Charlamagne and Kanye West. Oh yes, it's about to go down!Kea also interviews social worker and Nia Noire founder Jessica Gaddy. Jessica shares her experience with being biracial (Asian and Black), battling suicide ideation, overcoming her fear of seeking treatment as a mental health professional and so much more. Jessica Gaddy, LGSW is a licensed social worker, millennial, and minority mental health advocate. Jessica has over 10 years of mental health experience through her education, professional employment, and lived experiences. From the age of 15, Jessica battled with major depressive disorder. In search of self-understanding, Jessica studied psychology and human behavior earning a Bachelors of Arts from the California State University, San Bernardino. Her experiences became the platform for her passion in mental health and advocacy, leading her to pursue a Masters Degree in Social Work at Vir

This week's episode was requested by one of the fireflies (listeners). This episode addresses how to break-ups and divorce impact your mental health. Chautè Thompson joins the podcast and shares ways to take care of your mental health during this time. During the mind, body and soulness segment, Kea discussed four tips to push past fear. This week's episode was requested by one of the fireflies (listeners). This episode addresses how to break-ups and divorce impact your mental health. Chautè Thompson joins the podcast and shares ways to take care of your mental health during this time. During the mind, body and soulness segment, Kea discussed four tips to push past fear. This week's episode was requested by one of the fireflies (listeners). This episode addresses how to break-ups and divorce impact your mental health. Chautè Thompson joins the podcast and shares ways to take care of your mental health during this time. During the mind, body and soulness segment, Kea discussed four tips to push

Why do we tell our black boys to stop crying or acting like a girl? It diminishes their voice and forces them  hold everything inside. It is time we allow our black boys and men to cry and express their thoughts and feelings. In this episode, Kea speaks with book coach and motivational speaker Kenny Jones. Kenny shares his story with coming out as a gay black man, battling depression and being overweight. Author of the Amazon International Best Selling book Comeback Season; the Untapped Art of Mastering Your Resilience, Kenny empowers entrepreneurs, dreamers and doers, to embrace their personal stories as the core of their success; no matter how difficult or unpopular. He speaks candidly about how to turn pain into purpose while healing from revealing. Now an entrepreneur and life enthusiast, his approach is realistic and deeply personal has positioned numerous authors, entrepreneurs, and humans to own their stories.During the mind, body and soulness segment, Kea discusses the benefits of mediation to improv

Are you a mom who wants to start a business or already have a business and driving to find balance? This episode shares the story of founder of Brown Sisters Speak Myisha T who was diagnosed with cyclothymia that later turned into bipolar disorder. She also experienced and postpartum psychosis. Myisha T shares her story, tips on finding balance, mental wellness as a mom and entrepreneur. References/links:Myisha T’s personal website www.myishat.comBrown Sisters Speakwww.brownsistersspeak.usSide Walk Talkwww.sidewalk-talk.orgLearn more about Zones of Regulation: http://www.zonesofregulation.com/index.html Learn more about cyclothymia: https://www.psycom.net/depression.central.cyclothymia.html Learn more about postpartum psychosis: http://www.postpartum.net/learn-more/postpartum-psychosis/ Business Resources: Small Business Associationhttp://www.usasbe.org/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMImJOe8r6S2gIV0luGCh33ygXIEAAYAyAAEgJQK_D_BwE Scorehttps://www.score.org/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI6LzdjL-S2gIVA2SGCh3P_gaWEAAYAyAAEgK6H_D_BwE The

Following up on last week’s episode, Kea spoke with a member of TEAM KEA, Liz, who is a huge support to her in her mental health recovery. In part two, Liz discussed how family and friends can help those who live with mental illness. Kea also share her thoughts on the recent killing of Saheed Vassell who was killed by the police and lived with bipolar disorder.During the mind, body and soulness segment, Kea talks about the benefits of taking social media detoxes to help us with our mental health. References/Links: Learn more about Saheed Vassellhttps://www.washingtonpost.com/news/post-nation/wp/2018/04/05/police-shoot-and-kill-brooklyn-man-after-mistaking-a-metal-pipe-for-a-gun/?utm_term=.96949996b928 Therapist Shout-Out: Dr. Bryant Psychology Today Profilehttps://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/dr-deitra-bryant-upper-marlboro-md/361234?sid=1522958537.5194_2559&search=Upper+Marlboro&city=Upper+Marlboro&state=MD&ref=3&tr=ResultsName Benefits of social media detoxhttps://www.lifehack

Many people may look at Kea on social media and say "She looks so happy" but it did not happen overnight. Those in her support system (TEAM KEA) will tell you that it has been a rocky road. She still have rough moments but they are NOTHING compared to her previous dark days. She has healthy coping strategies to get her through, an amazing therapist and of course, TEAM KEA!In this episode, a member of TEAM KEA, Liz shares what this journey has been like for her and how creating a support system is vital in recovery. Liz and Kea met during her tenure as a contractor for BET Networks. They had an instant connection and their relationship flourished overtime. Liz is more than a friend, she is a big sister and at times, she turns on her momma-bear hat (when needed). Simply put, she is truly family! For those who do not know, Liz was the person who called the police when Kea informed her about my suicide attempt.During the mind, body and soulness segment, Kea share tips on creating a support system based

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is characterized by excessive, persistent and unrealistic worry, and caused by genetic factors, brain chemistry and personality. In fact, 40 million people in the United States are affected by an anxiety disorder, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. This week's episode discusses generalized anxiety disorder verses experiencing a normal amount of anxiety. Learn about the five types of anxiety disorders.The notOk app could be the answer that parents and guardians have been waiting for. It provides your child with help when they do not know the right words to express their emotions. If your child is stressed, depressed, loneliness or struggling with anxiety, help is at their fingertips by simply pressing one button. To program the app on your child’s phone, register five trusted contacts and the app will alert the individuals that they have been listed as a trusted contact.Created by brother and sister, Charlie and Hannah Lucas saw the need to

With recent stories such as Ashawnty Davis (10) and Imani McCray (8) dying by suicide, it is time to talk about our beautiful black princesses. While social media has the benefit of allowing us to stay connected, it has been shown to increase symptoms of depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts among girls. This episode is so necessary!Meet the expert! Marline Francois-Madden is the owner of Hearts Empowerment Counseling Center, phenomenal public speaker, and entrepreneur. With over 13 years of clinical experience, she has become a sought-after expert in mental health, trauma, self-care, and girls leadership. Marline has shared her expertise at dozens of universities, colleges, community organizations, churches and conferences— including the Congressional Black Caucus for Women and Girls. Her organization, Far More Precious, has awarded $2,500 in scholarships to minority girls since 2013 and continues to educate young women ages 14 - 19 to dream beyond the barriers they face to reach their fullest potential

This Is My Brave Founder Jennifer Marshall says, “One day, we're not gonna have to call talking about mental illness brave, we will simply call it talking.” This week, Kea speaks with Jennifer and Kate of This Is My Brave. Jennifer and Kate share their personal stories, the mission of This Is My Brave, talk about the upcoming show and tell you how to get involved. This Is My Brave, Inc. is the leading platform for individuals to share their story of overcoming mental illness through creative expression. During the mind, body and soulness segment, Kea encourages you to live in your truth and gives you homework to start your healing process.References/Links:This Is My Brave Website: https://thisismybrave.org/ Kea’s This Is My Brave Show Tickets:https://app.mobilecause.com/form/NC6d_g Kea’s This Is My Brave Donation Page Link: https://app.mobilecause.com/vf/STAGE/TKeaBlackman This Is My Brave Promo:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=77Yuy1tf3bsStill I Rise: One Year Anniversary (Kea will be speaking on a panel

How do you respond when your mother has a mental illness that causes her to hear voices? Schizophrenia it is a chronic and severe mental disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels and behaves. According to a study on race and risk of schizophrenia, it was found that African Americans are about three more likely than whites to be diagnosed with schizophrenia. Kea explores the mental illness of schizophrenia with Life Coach Latisha “Tish” Carr. Tish shares what it was like going up with her mother who battles schizophrenia. During the mind, body and soulness segment, Kea encourages us to move away from words and phrases that perpetrate the mental health stigma and prevent people from seeking treatment. Phases like "The weather is acting bipolar" is unacceptable. She also wrote a blog post on using mental diagnoses as adjectives and you can view by clicking the link below. http://firefliesunite.com/blog/please-stop-using-mental-illnesses-as-adjectives References/Links:Kea's EventsMarch 10: N

Kea interviewed Emmy Award-winning and I Live For founder Nikki Webber Allen about millennials of color impacted by mental illness. Unfortunately, Nikki lost her nephew Paul R. Webber V to suicide yet found her strength by starting an organization I Live For (ILF) and its mission is to end mental health stigma in communities starting with millennials of color. Through short films, live events and social media, ILF informs, inspires and connects by creating a safe space for honest, unapologetic conversations about mental health. She found that one in four people in the world and one in five Americans will develop a mental disorder in their lifetime. People from marginalized communities have a higher risk factor. Suicide is the third leading cause of death of black males ages 15-24. Latina teens have the highest rate of suicide attempts of all teenage girls. In 50% of mental health cases, the onset starts around age 14. Three-quarters of the cases are people who are 24 years old or younger Nikki participated

Where are my late 80's & early 90’s babies? I had the pleasure of interviewing Vanessa Baden Kelly. She formerly played in some of our favorite 90’s children TV Shows such as Kenan & Kel and Gullah Gullah Island on Nickelodeon. Vanessa currently plays the character Journee who battles bipolar disorder on Giants which is executive produced by FOX’s Empire Jussie Smollett. You can see Giants, it premieres on Wednesday, February 21st on Issa Rae’s YouTube Channel. Therapist Shout-Out: New Vision Counseling Center: http://www.newvisioncounselingcenter.com/index.html Located in Smyrna and Douglasville, GAWhere to find Fireflies Unite? Facebook Closed Group: Fireflies Unite: Healthy Minds https://www.facebook.com/groups/1714131805325103/ Facebook Fan Page: Fireflies Unite (@firefliespod) Twitter: https://twitter.com/Firefliespod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firefliespod/References/Links: 3 Shows Normalizing Black Mental Health (and Doing It Well)https://themighty.com/2018/01/tv-television-shows