Fireflies Unite Podcast With Kea

IntroductionT-Kea and Jordan discuss the ins and outs of anxiety and its potential effects on the ability to manage day to day life.SpotlightMalik Webber died by suicide on March 17, 2020 at the age of 21. Click here to read more about Malik and metro Chicago's increase in suicide deaths during 2020.ResourceThe Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the prevention, treatment, and cure of anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and co-occuring disorders through aligning research, practice, and education. Check out their website.Additional ResourcesListen to the Redefining Wealth Podcast by Patrice Washington.Check out this template for more information on how to use a thought record.Community Changemaker Amber Benziger, MS, LPC, CCTP, is a therapist and coach who focuses on those with anxiety and over-thinkers. She is the creator of The Anxiety Lab and The Managed Mind Podcast.Moment of Inspiration  Que sera, sera: Whatever will be, will be! Jay Livingston a

IntroductionT-Kea and Jordan discuss the ins and outs of anxiety and its potential effects on the ability to manage day to day life.SpotlightMalik Webber died by suicide on March 17, 2020 at the age of 21. Click here to read more about Malik and metro Chicago's increase in suicide deaths during 2020.ResourceThe Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the prevention, treatment, and cure of anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and co-occuring disorders through aligning research, practice, and education. Check out their website.Additional ResourcesCheck out The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health by Dr. Rheeda Walker. Watch and listen to Dr. Walker's episode on our podcast!Community Changemaker Amber Benziger, MS, LPC, CCTP, is a therapist and coach who focuses on those with anxiety and over-thinkers. She is the creator of The Anxiety Lab and The Managed Mind Podcast.Moment of Inspiration  Worrying does not take away tomorrow's troubles; it t

IntroductionT-Kea and Jordan are joined by Mark Harrison to discuss the importance of recognizing and supporting the mental health of Black men and boys. Mark is a clinical mental health counselor, mental health advocate, and Army veteran who survived two suicide attempts. SpotlightCharles Johnson, former NFL wide receiver, died by suicide on July 17, 2022 at the age of 50. Charles played for the Steelers, Eagles, Patriots, and Bills before retiring. He was the Assistant Athletic Director at Heritage High School in Wake Forest, NC at the time of his passing.ResourceThe Confess Project of America is a national organization that fosters mental health advocacy in the Black barber and beauty industry by building awareness, breaking stigma, and increasing access to care within the communities they serve. You can check out the organization’s IG at @theconfessprojectofamerica.Community Changemaker Kofi “Kizzle” Forson, founder of Express Yourself Black Man, a podcast and healing community for black men. You can chec

IntroductionT-Kea and Jordan discuss the importance of speaking up when you have questions or concerns during the course of mental health treatment. Advocating for your needs is a great way to become an active participant in your recovery.SpotlightChris Vaughn died by suicide in 2021 after struggling with PTSD. The following year, his mother, Deneen Vaughn, and brother, Cameron Vaughn, founded the Mind and Wellness Foundation in Chris’ honor. To learn more about Chris’ life and the foundation, visit https://www.mindandwellnessfoundation.org/.ResourceThe Black Women’s Mental Health Institute is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to building awareness of and support for the mental and holistic wellbeing of Black women and girls. BWMHI’s No More Martyrs Sisterhood Support Collective is an online community of support for Black women and girls managing mental health concerns. You can follow BWMHI on IG at @blackwomensmhi and @no_moremartyrs. Community ChangemakerHydeia Broadbent was a prominent HIV/AIDS a

IntroductionT-Kea and Jordan are joined by Victor Armstrong, Vice President for Health Equity and Engagement with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), to discuss a new initiative called L.E.T.S. Save Lives: An Introduction to Suicide Prevention for Black and African American Communities. SpotlightJoin us as we celebrate Renewed Resilience Day (considered one’s second birthday), created by Jordan and T-Kea. This is a special day designated for reflection and celebration of individuals who have survived suicide attempts. The primary goal is to encourage survivors to reshape their narrative and perceive this day as a meaningful opportunity to honor themselves. It serves as a powerful acknowledgment of resilience, fostering a sense of empowerment among those in recovery, and collectively appreciates the strength demonstrated in one’s journey.Feb. 11th is T-Kea’s Renewed Resilience Day.Fun fact: Feb. 13th is Jordan’s birthday.ResourceThe American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is a voluntary h

Introduction | T-Kea and Jordan are joined by Lauren Jenkins, LCPC and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) to discuss the impact of trauma and its connection to suicide.Spotlight | Marshawn McCarrel, a Black Lives Matter Activist who died by suicide on the steps of the Statehouse in Columbus, OH. Marshawn died on February 8, 2016 at the age of 23. Resource | TheJourney2Well, founded by Lauren Jenkins, LCPC, was created to help individuals and organizations connect to resources, training opportunities, and supportive tools and services that she believes will be supportive to their healing journey. Check out the link below to learn more about TheJourney2Well.https://thejourney2well.com/Community Changemaker | Nicole Pierre-Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor and creator of Melanated Women’s Health, LLC in Philadelphia, PA. Nicole’s practice offers compassionate and anti-oppressive therapy services. Nicole specializes in trauma therapies such as post-traumatic stress disorder therapy and eye movemen

IntroductionT-Kea and Jordan are joined by Khia Glover, LCSW, to discuss the importance of fostering healthy mental wellness in children and how parents can support their kids to thrive emotionally.SpotlightStormiyah Denson-Jackson, a seventh-grader from Washington, DC, died by suicide on January 23, 2018 at the age of 12. Stormiyah was a victim of bullying. Her death led to the passing of the Stormiyah Denson-Jackson Economic Damages Equity Act of 2022.Resource: Kids are People Too!Podcast hosted by Khia Glover that promotes the fostering of children’s mental wellness through connection between parent and child. Khia seeks to help adults parent mindfully by providing a different perspective into what may be happening in their child’s life. You can listen to the podcast on Apple or Spotify.Apple:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kids-are-people-too/id1536464756Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/2pNrSWtxo7uKf6R1r5TyfA?si=912d7e861d7743c1Check out Khia’s book: Rising Above: Teen Devotional for Girls:http

IntroductionT-Kea and Jordan are joined by Dr. Rheeda Walker to discuss her book, The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health. Dr. Walker gives practical tips on how to manage mental health while living life unapologetically black. SpotlightLee Thompson Young, star of Disney’s The Famous Jett Jackson, who died by suicide on August 19, 2013 at the age of 29. ResourceThe Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental HealthAuthored by Dr. Rheeda Walker, The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health explores the current crisis of mental health for Black people and helps us to understand the challenges and connections to racism, religion, and physical health. This guide provides practical tools to help neutralize stressors and live life more fully. You can purchase your copy athttps://www.rheedawalkerphd.com/bookCommunity ChangemakerCharlamagne tha God Charlamagne is the host of the Breakfast Club and a mental health advocate who founded the Mental Wealth Alliance and the Black Effect Podcast Network. He’s been transparent

IntroductionT-Kea and Jordan partnered up with Dr. LaNail Plummer of Onyx Therapy Group and Dr. Rossalyn Thyssen of the Traeh Thyssen Have A Heart Foundation to discuss how to support loved ones who are struggling with suicidal ideation. They also discussed their personal connections with suicide. ResourceOnyx Therapy Group is a Black woman, Veteran-owned business who aims to address mental health issues and disparities in communities, organizations, and for individuals in need. Dr. LaNail Plummer is the CEO of Onyx Therapy Group. Check out their Instagram page and website:https://www.instagram.com/onyxtherapygroup/https://www.onyxtherapygroup.com/onyxteampageTraeh Thyssen Have A Heart Foundation is a non-profit organization that seeks to provide information, resources, and support to combat bullying and prevent youth suicide. The organization is dedicated to Dr. Roslynn Thyssens’s son, Traeh, who died by suicide. Check out their Instagram page and website:https://www.instagram.com/traehthyssen.haveaheart htt

Introduction | T-Kea and Jordan are joined by Courtney Anderson-Harvey, LCSW, and Jillian Pelzer, LPC, at their first live event titled “Black & Suicidal: The Rise of Suicide in the Black Community”. During this panel discussion, they highlight their personal connection to suicide, the importance of having a working relationship with a counselor, the benefits of peer support, plus a Q&A session from our wonderful attendees.Resource | A Resting Place Counseling, a new counseling practice based in New Jersey that is focused on helping to provide rest, restoration and renewed motivation to move forward in your life. The owner and therapist is Courtney Anderson-Harvey, LCSW. Check out Courtney’s website and Instagram page:https://www.restingplacecounseling.com/IG: arestingplacecounselingGraceland TherapeuticsGraceland Therapeutics is a mental health agency based in Lanham, MD that provides therapeutic support groups, 1:1 life coaching, and mentorship programs for teens and young adults. Graceland Therapeu

Community ChangemakerPride of Nyla, LLC: Jasmine Price, LCPC, LPC Based in Washington, DC, Pride of Nyla, LLC provides therapy, doula services, professional training and workshops, and private practice consulting. Website: www.prideofnyla.com IG: https://www.instagram.com/prideofnyla/ Moment of InspirationWe encourage you to take a step toward building community, whether that be taking a cooking class, exercise class, skating, sports, checking out websites like meetup.com, LinkedIn and FB groups, etc. We want to encourage people to meet others (in-person or virtual) and build a network of support. We want you to be consistent. Establishing healthy relationships can positively impact our mental health and wellbeing. Connect with Us Follow us on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackpeoplediebysuicidetoo/ Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@blackpeoplediebysuicide2?_t=8cjqDTiqHbq&_r=1Follow us on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/blackpeoplediebysuicidetooYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@BPDBSTPodcas

IntroductionT-Kea and Jordan are joined by Iysha Perkins, founder of The Unstable One, to discuss her personal journey with mental health and how life coaching differs from clinical treatment.SpotlightSimone Battle, an American singer, dancer, and actress, finalist on The X Factor, and member of the group G.R.L., died by suicide on September 5, 2014ResourceA Resting Place Counseling, a new counseling practice in New Jersey that is focused on helping to provide rest, restoration and renewed motivation to move forward in your life. The owner and therapist is Courtney Anderson-Harvey. A Resting Place Counseling Website: https://www.restingplacecounseling.com/Additional Mental Health Resources: https://www.blackpeoplediebysuicidetoo.org/_files/ugd/c79b52_8baa68adc228487d9906b12722f86b61.pdf Community ChangemakerPretty Brown Girl is an organization that empowers Black and Brown girls while encouraging self-acceptance by cultivating social, emotional & intellectual well-being.Website: https://prettybrowngirl.co

IntroductionT-Kea and Jordan are joined by Tandra Rutledge, Trainer & Director of Youth & Campus Ministry Programs at Soul Shop, to discuss the intersection between suicide prevention and the church.SpotlightPastor Teddy Parker, Jr., former pastor of Bibb Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Macon, GA, who died by suicide on November 10, 2013.ResourceSoul ShopSoul Shop is a faith-based organization that equips faith communities to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicidal desperation. Website: https://www.soulshopmovement.org/Additional Mental Health Resources: https://www.blackpeoplediebysuicidetoo.org/_files/ugd/c79b52_8baa68adc228487d9906b12722f86b61.pdfCommunity ChangemakerDr. Anita PhillipsA former therapist, life coach, author, podcast host, Dr. Anita Phillips’ platform works to make the connection between mental health and the Bible. Website: https://www.anitaphillips.com/IG: https://www.instagram.com/dranitaphillips/Moment of Inspiration“Prayer is a weapon. Therapy is the strategy.” - Dr.

Introduction | T-Kea and Jordan discuss self-care and the importance of making time for yourself. After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Self-care doesn’t have to break the bank. Practical, everyday actions will fill your cup, too. Cheers!Spotlight | Dr. Nakita Mortimer (died on May 24, 2023), a 29-year-old resident doctor training to become an anesthesiologist, who died by suicide on May 24, 2023.  Dr. Mortimer was also a Union Organizer who used her voice to advocate for fellow medical peers. Resource | The NAP Ministry: Tricia HerseyThe originators of the “Rest is Resistance” movement, which” is a call to action and manifesto for those who are sleep deprived, searching for justice, and longing to be liberated from the oppressive grip of Grind Culture”. Website: https://thenapministry.com/IG: https://www.instagram.com/thenapministry/?hl=enCommunity Changemaker | Dr. Amber ThorntonClinical psychologist, host of the Balanced Working Mama podcast, Millennial Motherhood Wellness Expert, mom of two, and wi

Introduction | T-Kea and Jordan discuss the role of peer support specialists and the positive impact peers have on mental health and substance use recovery. Spotlight | Don Cornelius, founder and co-host of Soul Train, who died on 2 /1/2012 at 75 years oldResource | Conduct an internet search for peer support in your state. There is likely a credentialing process or program if you are interested in becoming a Peer. NAMI Peer-to-Peer: https://www.nami.org/Support-Education/Mental-Health-Education/NAMI-Peer-to-PeerCommunity Changemaker | The Tides That Bind, Inc. is a non-profit for substance use and mental health support located in Baltimore. The organization offers training for peers, assistance with housing and health and wellness services.Website: https://3tb.org/Moment of Inspiration | “Because of peer support I’m alive” - Melodie. Peers really are impactful and we have the power to save lives.Connect with Us  | Follow us on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackpeoplediebysuicidetoo/ Follow us on TikTok: htt

 T-Kea and Jordan are joined by Dr. Raushannah Johnson-Verwayne, licensed clinical psychologist and author, for a discussion about suicide while being a high achiever. Spotlight | Jas Waters, screenwriter and journalist who worked on TV shows such as This is Us, died by suicide on June 9, 2020Kevin Ward, former Mayor of Hyattsville, MD, died by suicide on January 25, 2022.Lowell Hawthorne, CEO and Founder of Golden Krust, died by suicide on December 2, 2017Resource | Standard of Care provides diagnostic assessment services as well as therapy for a range of mental health conditions. Dr. RJ’s mental health practice Standard of Care Psychological Website: www.standardofcarepsychological.comDr. RJ’s Executive Leadership Coaching Website: https://www.askdrrj.com/ Additional Mental Health Resources: https://www.blackpeoplediebysuicidetoo.org/_files/ugd/c79b52_8baa68adc228487d9906b12722f86b61.pdfCommunity Changemaker | Dr. Joy Harden-Bradford, founder and CEO of Therapy for Black Girls recently released her first bo

IntroductionT-Kea and Jordan are joined by Alisha Bryant and her daughter Harmony Allen who is the parent of a child currently struggling with on-going suicidal ideation. SpotlightTraeh Thyssen, 13-year-old student who died by suicide on Oct 3, 2019.ResourceI Have A Heart is a non-profit organization that seeks to provide information, resources, and support to combat bullying and prevent youth suicide. The organization is dedicated to Roslynn’s son Traeh who died by suicide. Website: https://ihaveaheart.org/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/traehthyssen.haveaheart Additional Mental Health Resources: https://www.blackpeoplediebysuicidetoo.org/_files/ugd/c79b52_bb109a201a8a4d518d05ec76e793c3be.pdf Community ChangemakerKierrah Flipping is the CEO/Founder of Core Empowerment. She’s a therapist and a Reiki master. She’s located in the DMV. Check her out at the following websites. Kierrah Flipping: https://www.kierrahflipping.com/CORE Empowerment: https://www.coreempowerment.org/ Reiki Services and Podcast: https://ww

IntroductionMany times we are unaware of the signs of suicide and if we notice them, we are afraid to intervene. T-Kea and Jordan discuss signs of suicide and encourage listeners to have the conversation even though it is uncomfortable. SpotlightNah’Jahron Holmes of Charlotte North Carolina (T-Kea’s 13-year-old cousin)ResourceResource: 988Additional Mental Health Resources: https://www.blackpeoplediebysuicidetoo.org/_files/ugd/c79b52_8baa68adc228487d9906b12722f86b61.pdfMoment of InspirationHow can you incorporate the topic of suicide into your life this week?Be intentional and have an honest conversation about what you’ve noticed and your concerns. Listen non-judgmentally (that means not interrupting, telling them how they should/shouldn’t feel/do, and ask for best ways to support.Be direct and ask “Are you thinking about suicide or killing yourself?Connect with usFollow us on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackpeoplediebysuicidetoo/ Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@blackpeoplediebysuicide2?_t=8cj

Elise Antoine, MSW and Life Coach, joins T-Kea and Jordan to discuss her personal experience with suicide as a social worker, Christian, and Haitian-American. Elise also discusses how her personal experience led to the founding of an organization dedicated to dismantling the stigma around mental health.Personal IG: eliseiantoineWebsite: www.eliseiantoine.comNon-profit IG: ripthestigmaSpotlightAttorney, TV Correspondent and Former Miss USA Cheslie Kryst.April 28, 1991 - January 30, 2022ResourceRIP the StigmaWebsite: https://www.ripthestigma.org/ IG: @ripthestigmaCommunity Change-maker:Sharon Lawrence of My Selah Wellness Website: https://www.myselahwellness.com/Resource Sheet: https://www.blackpeoplediebysuicidetoo.org/_files/ugd/c79b52_8baa68adc228487d9906b12722f86b61.pdf Moment of Inspiration“Turn your wounds into wisdom.” - Oprah WinfreyConnect With UsFollow us on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackpeoplediebysuicidetoo/ Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@blackpeoplediebysuicide2?_t=8cjqDTiqHbq&am

Join Hosts T-Kea and Jordan with special guests Courtney Anderson-Harvey and Jillian Pelzer for a LIVE show! BLACK & SUICIDAL: The Rise of Suicide in the Community. WATCH LIVE ON FACEBOOK: https://fb.me/e/2FOjskP1ZWATCH LIVE ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/live/oWJlgYtUJS4?feature=shareIn honor of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) Mental Health Month, we are shedding light on suicide in the Black community. Observed each July, BIPOC Mental Health Month highlights the unique mental health challenges and needs of historically disenfranchised or oppressed racial and ethnic groups in the United States.Many people in the Black community are told suicide is a "white people thing." In fact, suicide is among the leading cause of death in the United States and increasing rapidly among Blacks. Rates of suicide among Black youth have risen faster than in any other racial/ethnic group in the past two decades, with suicide rates in Black males 10-19 years-old increasing by 60%. Early adolesc