Unapologetically Black Unicorns
Keris Jän Myrick
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Have you ever chatted with an Unapologetically Black Unicorn- someone who symbolizes freedom, power, strength and is a true force of nature and thought, ‘WOW people need to hear this’? Now you can and learn how to be a U.B.U. too! Join the weekly conversation with host Keris Jän Myrick, an unapologetically Black unicorn in their own right, and nationally recognized mental health advocate chatting with amazing U.B.U. folk who are advancing all things mental health, racial justice, and anything cool to enhance human existence.
Available episodes
Newest first
Oldest first
3 days ago
“Black Mental Health: Meeting Intersectional LGBT+ and Cultural Needs in the Community” with Yolo Akili
Yolo Akili Robinson (he/him/his) is the Executive Director of BEAM (Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective). Yolo explains why we need to give the skills and tools to the community because they are the true caregivers for so many people’s healing and wellness. They talk about the healing justice model, person-centered care and cultivating more community and healing spaces.
This episode is sponsored by Janssen Neuroscience and Supported by The Painted Brain, a California based Peer Run Organization.
https://paintedbrain.org/unapologetically-black-unicorns-podcast
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Mar 21, 2023
“Find Your Reason” with Zak Williams
Zak Williams (he/him) is a Mental Health Advocate, the son of the late actor/comedian Robin Williams and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Zak shares how mental health advocacy has been a way to manage his process of healing and discovering how service was a path to happiness. They talk about how Zak got started teaching at San Quentin State Prison, his work on lifestyle interventions and being open to opportunities.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
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Mar 14, 2023
“You Are Far from Insignificant” with Nicole Kwan
Nicole Kwan (she/her) is a mental health advocate and she is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Nicole talks about how mental health was stigmatized in her own culture and how she found people to talk to and support her. They talk about the focus on immigrant mental health, getting more young people to the table and the importance of compassion, kindness and empathy.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
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Mar 7, 2023
“Doing it From a Place of Love” with Jess Stohlmann Rainey
Jess Stohlmann Rainey (she/her) is a mad care worker, an instructor in the University of Denver Graduate School of Professional Psychology and she is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Jess shares her points from a piece she wrote about 988 and the importance of informed consent. They talk about Jess’ experience as a death doula, why it’s essential in care work to not only give people options but to also make sure they have access to those options and why the goal of this work is to love people well.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Jess Stohlmann Rainey’s blog “On 988”: https://www.muchmadnessllc.com/blog/988
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Feb 28, 2023
“Be Love” with Dr. Teah Hairston
Dr. Teah Hairston (she/her) is the founder of Be Love Holistic. Dr. Hairston walks us through her journey including the challenges she encountered after a miscarriage. They talk about recovery for Black women, the need for being with people who have experienced things like you, the impacts of Sister Circles and making room for self-care.
This episode is sponsored by Janssen Neuroscience and Supported by The Painted Brain, a California based Peer Run Organization.
https://paintedbrain.org/unapologetically-black-unicorns-podcast
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Feb 21, 2023
“Crisis Through a Lens of Grief” with Nze Okoronta
Nze Okoronta (they/them) is the Peer Services Program Director for SOAR Case Management Services overseeing Solstice House Peer Run Respite and Peer Run Warmline and they are an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Nze shares their mental health journey and how they are working with the same Warmline they called while in crisis. They talk about their experiences with peer respites, not using anything carceral in the program and dealing with crisis through a lens of grief.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
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Feb 14, 2023
The Lovers Card is You
Keris goes solo to reflect on some personal meaning behind another Tarot card. She shares why the Lovers card resonates with her and she draws the parallels between the card and her personal experiences. She talks about why she first struggled with the Lovers card even though it is her birth card, she shares an event from her childhood that’s made it hard for her to love herself and honoring you for you – U.B.U.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
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Feb 7, 2023
“Do It Afraid” with Preston Mitchum
Preston Mitchum (he/him) is the Director of Advocacy and Government Affairs with The Trevor Project and he is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Preston shares what The Trevor Project does as an organization and how they try to reach and support LGBTQ young people. They talk about how Preston always wanted to support people and fight for their access, how The Trevor Project crisis counselors are trained to meet the needs of LGBTQ young people and how everyone has a voice.
For more information on The Trevor Project visit: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
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Jan 31, 2023
“Racial Trauma and Safe Black Spaces” with Dr. Kristee Haggins
Dr. Kristee Haggins (she/her) is a community healer, African-centered psychologist and the Executive Director of Safe Black Space. Dr. Haggins shares how Safe Black Space is creating opportunities for Black people to heal and thrive. They talk about the community healing circles, how Dr. Haggins got into the field of psychology and why we need more Black psychologists plus the power in embracing who you are.
For more information on Safe Back Space visit: https://www.safeblackspace.org/
This episode is sponsored by Janssen Neuroscience and Supported by The Painted Brain, a California based Peer Run Organization.
https://paintedbrain.org/unapologetically-black-unicorns-podcast
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Jan 24, 2023
“Mindfuling” with Nandini Nema
Nandini Nema (she/her) is a gap year student who is making an impact in mental health and she is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Nandini shares the work she’s done as a youth representative with UNICEF by helping build child friendly cities. They talk about how mindfulness is a process, working in tech as a Google summer scholar, what they would do to encourage people to get into the field of mental health and they share some of their healthy coping mechanisms.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
For more information visit:
Child friendly city initiative: https://childfriendlycities.org/
Boulder, Colorado’s child friendly initiative: https://www.growingupboulder.org/
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Jan 17, 2023
“Your Voice has Meaning, Power and Impact” with Alvin Lee
Alvin Lee (he/him) is the Executive Director of GENup and he is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Alvin shares the backstory of how he got into student activism and what it is like being a young person in a space with older adults. They talk about why education is a fundamental issue for everyone, how his work in education impacts BIPOC communities and why representation matters in school curriculum.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
For more information visit: https://www.generationup.net/
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Jan 10, 2023
“Start the Conversation” with Fajr DeLane
Fajr DeLane (she/her) is the CEO of F^3: Fun. Fit. Fabulous! Health & Wellness Mentoring Program and she is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Fajr shares her inspiration for starting the “Fun. Fit. Fabulous!” program and how her camp was about inspiring the girls/women in her community. They talk about making time for self-care, how her work intersects with mental health and taking the time to start the conversation about mental health so you can help support others.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
For more information on “F^3: Fun. Fit. Fabulous!” visit: www.funfitfabulous.org/
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Jan 3, 2023
“Choose to be Curious” with Lynn Borton
Lynn Borton (she/her) is the Producer and Host of the radio show "Choose to be Curious" and she is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Lynn considers herself a student of curiosity and how with that she tries to make space for intellectual humility. They both add another “p” word to “people, place and purpose”, how the intractable problems can only be solved together and some analogies to curiosity illustrating making a connection to two random things if we only try.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
Links:
Website: https://choosetobecurious.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChoosetobeCurious/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Choose2BCurious
IG: https://www.instagram.com/choosetobecurious/
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Dec 27, 2022
“Liberated Voice”
Keris sips her tea and shares a dream that resonates with the podcast’s past year and its future for the next year. Also, she connects the dots between how her dream was tied to finding spaces where we can be our authentic selves and have full autonomy. Keris talks about the goal of last year’s podcast, a tease for the podcasts starting next year and some meaningful quotes from bell hooks and Maya Angelou.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
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Dec 20, 2022
“Break with Conformity” with Jose Caballero
Jose Caballero (he/him) is a mental health advocate, blogger and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Jose talks about his “why” and his experiences growing up in Nicaragua and immigrating to the United States. They talk about having conversations about mental health with their families and in their communities, the impacts of emotional intelligence, trying to incorporate mental health education into school’s curriculum and beauty standards in social media.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
For more information visit https://www.intouchblog.com/
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Dec 13, 2022
“Cognitive Liberation” with Katherine and Rebecca Grainger
We're taking the week off so enjoy this re-airing of our episode with the Grainger sisters. Katherine Grainger (she/her) is a Managing Partner at Civitas Public Affairs Group and Rebecca Grainger (she/her) is a Distinguished Educator and they are both Unapologetically Black Unicorns. Katherine and Rebecca both discuss understanding and moving policy to fix and change systems. They talk the history of Critical Race Theory and the language behind it, the work they’re doing with The Black Policy Institute as well as Black Futures Lab and the freedom of cognitive liberation.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Dec 6, 2022
“Recovery is Real and Recovery is Possible” with Dr. Miriam E. Delphin-Rittmon
Dr. Miriam E. Delphin-Rittmon, Ph.D. (she/hers) is the Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Administrator of SAMHSA and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Dr. Delphin-Rittmon reflects on her roles before joining SAMHSA and some of her mentors through the course of her career. They talk about mental health promotion and early intervention, the data behind the increase in use of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, equity focus work including the Black youth suicide summit and why SAMHSA offers hope with their funding of support and services.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Links:
SAMHSA Interim Strategic Plan: https://www.samhsa.gov/about-us/interim-strategic-plan
Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator: https://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/
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Nov 29, 2022
“Experience Over Expertise” with DJ Chuang
DJ Chuang (he/ him) hosts the Erasing Shame podcast (erasingshame.com), the director of Christian Asian Mental health (camh.network), a moderator at Subtle Asian Mental Health and he is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. DJ talks about his personal experiences with the challenges around finding a safe space and the lack of communication around mental health in the Asian community. They talk about trying to get more than just spiritual wellness in the churches, leaning in on experience over expertise and why the church was the perfect place for DJ to reach other Asian Americans about mental health.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Links:
website + blog: https://djchuang.com
twitter: https://twitter.com/djchuang
instagram: https://instagram.com/djchuang
linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/djchuang
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Nov 22, 2022
“Being Thankful”
This is a special episode about giving thanks. Keris shares why she’s struggling this holiday season and where it all stems from. She explains how it is hard to be positive with everything we are going through in this country but how it is important to fight together. She finishes it up with what she is thankful for including all the guests she’s had on the podcast and what she’s wishing for us all.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
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Nov 15, 2022
“Taking the Road that Requires the Most Faith” with Nicole Doña
Nicole Doña (she/her/ella) is the Founder and CEO of Hope + Equity Without Borders and she is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Nicole talks about being an artist and a creator to her core and how art helps with her mental health. They talk about spirituality, the therapeutic nature of working with clay, the Crypto for Couples Podcast and taking the road that requires the most faith.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
For more information:
Exhibition fundraiser: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pots-paz-exhibition-fundraiser-tickets-456543613237
Hope + Equity Without Borders: www.hopeandequity.org
Crypto for Couples Podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/cryptoforcouples/
Pots & Paz: www.potsandpaz.com
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Nov 8, 2022
“We Have the Mic” with Lynnae Brown
We're taking the week off so enjoy this re-airing of our episode with Lynnae .Lynnae Brown is a storycoach and the director of Howie the Harp Advocacy Center at Community Access and she is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Lynnae shares her journey on how she became the director at Howie the Harp and how they have extensive training programs to teach people in mental health recovery to become peer support workers. They talk about the stories we tell ourselves that make a difference in our lives, the backstory and influence of Howie the Harp and getting people in mental health recovery prepared for a workplace environment.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Nov 1, 2022
“Enjoying the Message as it’s Received” with Dr. Ikwunga Wonodi
Dr. Ikwunga Wonodi (he/him) is a psychiatrist, an Afrobeat Poet and he is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Dr. Wonodi talked about what afrobeat poetry represents and his personal journey in becoming an afrobeat poet. They talk about pidgin, how afrobeat has been used as a vehicle for change, his poem and songwriting process and his message on homelessness and mental illness.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
To listen or purchase Dr. Woondi’s music check out:
"Calabash: Afrobeat Poems by Ikwunga Vol.1": https://music.apple.com/us/artist/ikwunga/30240928
“Deep Sleep”: https://music.apple.com/us/album/deep-sleep/270004179
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Oct 25, 2022
“Everyone Matters Equally” with Kana Enomoto and Reina Chiang
Kana Enomoto (she/her) is the director of brain health for the McKinsey Health Institute and Reina Chiang (she/her) is a college student and a mental health advocate and they are Unapologetically Black Unicorns. Kana and Reina discuss their personal experiences when crisis showed up in their home and why the emergency room could do more to support mental health crisis. They talk about why mental health and medical conditions should be treated with the same care, Reina’s vision for her non-profit “u matter” and the importance for parents to seek support for their children in crisis as well as for themselves.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
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Oct 18, 2022
“988: A Health First Approach” with Tiffany Russell
Tiffany Russell (she/hers) is the Chief Officer of Crisis and Justice Partnerships with the SAMHSA 988 and Crisis Behavioral Health Coordinating Office and she is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Tiffany gives an overview of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and what to expect when people contact 988. They talk about the data and call volume, information about funding, getting feedback from the community and how 988 is trying to infuse more equity and diversity.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
For more information:
988 Frequently Asked Questions: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/988/faqs
For 988 positions: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/988/jobs
For 988 performance data: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/988/performance-metrics
For grants and notifications: https://www.samhsa.gov/grants
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Oct 11, 2022
The Lovers Card is You
Keris goes solo to reflect on some personal meaning behind another Tarot card. She shares why the Lovers card resonates with her and she draws the parallels between the card and her personal experiences. She talks about why she first struggled with the Lovers card even though it is her birth card, she shares an event from her childhood that’s made it hard for her to love herself and honoring you for you – U.B.U.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
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Oct 4, 2022
“741741: Help Is A Text Away” with Dr. Shairi Turner
Dr. Shairi Turner (she/her) is the Current Chief Health Officer at Crisis Text Line and she is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Dr. Turner shares how juvenile justice helped her understanding of trauma blossom and how the Crisis Text Line helped bring everything together for her. They talk about the purpose of the Crisis Text Line, recognizing that we are in a youth mental health crisis and the differences in need for BIPoC young people who text 741741.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
For more information:
The United Empathy Report 2021: https://www.crisistextline.org/united-in-empathy-2021-report/
Mental Health School Supplies: https://www.crisistextline.org/school/
Mental Health Resources Page: https://www.crisistextline.org/resources/
Become A Volunteer with Crisis Text Line: https://www.crisistextline.org/become-a-volunteer/
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Sep 27, 2022
“We Can Do This One Person at a Time” with Dr. Felecia Pullen
Dr. Felecia Pullen (she/her) is the founder of The PILLARS & S.A.F.E. in Harlem and she is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Dr. Pullen focuses on language surrounding the political determinates of health and racial disparities in policy. They talk about Dr. Pullen’s substance use recovery, mental health and suicide attempt survivor journey, her passion for the work she is doing and how money and insurance shouldn’t be a barrier.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
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Sep 20, 2022
“The Only Thing That Isn’t Acceptable Is Not Trying” with Dr. Nzinga Harrison
Dr. Nzinga Harrison (she/her) is a physician, educator, the Chief Medical Officer and Co-Founder of Eleanor Health and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Dr. Harrison shares the “r’s” of trauma-informed care and how racism is a predictor for health disparities. They talk about Eleanor Health’s mission, how substance use disorders are mental health issues and how there are an infinite number of paths to addiction which means there are also an infinite number of paths to recovery.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
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Sep 13, 2022
“A Discipline of Hope” with Vesper Moore
Vesper Moore (they/elle) is a mad liberation and disability justice activist, and they are an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Vesper defines mad liberation and neurodiversity and how they got involved in the field. They talk about opening Respites and the complications with funding, using advocacy in their peer training and learning lessons in everything and everyone.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
For more information visit:
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vespermoore
Book Drop The Disorder: Second Edition - https://adisorder4everyone.com/
Website: www.vespermoore.com
Kiva Centers: www.kivacenters.org
Madness Network News: www.madnessnetworknews.com
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Sep 6, 2022
“988: The New Number for Hope” with Dr. John Draper
Dr. John Draper (he/him) was the Chief Officer of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Dr. Draper helps us understand the genesis of the new 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and what he hopes gets accomplished through the new lifeline. They talk about geolocation, how to serve people where they are and building trust and making others feel empowered.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
For more info:
* https://988lifeline.org
* https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/988
* https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/988/jobs
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Aug 30, 2022
“The Table is in the Community” with Dr. Ruby Mendenhall
Dr. Ruby Mendenhall (she/her) is an Associate Professor at the University of Illinois and she is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Ruby talks about her family and where she came from. They talk about Ruby teaching at a predominately white institution, creating a wellness store, youth community health workers, youth citizen/community scientists and racial microaggressions.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
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Aug 23, 2022
“No CARE Court” with Andreya Garcia-Ponce De Leon, Asantewaa Boykin and Shonique Williams
Shonique Williams (she/her) is the Founder of the Ezekiel’s Project and No CARE Court Coalition, Asantewaa Boykin (she/her) R.N MICN, is an Emergency RN and the co-founder of APTP (Anti Police - Terror Project), Andreya Garcia-Ponce De Leon (she/her) is the Executive Director of San Bernardino Free Them All and Project Amiga and they are all Unapologetically Black Unicorns. They discuss Senate Bill 1338 - CARE Court and all of its shortcomings. They talk about how they all got involved in the No CARE Court Coalition, their experiences speaking during the hearings and reactions from some assembly members and holding our elected officials accountable.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
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Aug 16, 2022
The Tower Card
Keris goes solo to reflect on some personal meaning behind the artwork of a few Tarot cards. There was one card in particular that resonated with her, the Tower card, and she draws the parallels between the card and her personal experiences. She talks about the old LA county general hospital, being involuntarily hospitalized and she ties it all together by sharing when she had her Tower Card moment.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
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Aug 9, 2022
“Find Your Reason” with Zak Williams
Zak Williams (he/him) is a Mental Health Advocate, the son of the late actor/comedian Robin Williams and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Zak shares how mental health advocacy has been a way to manage his process of healing and discovering how service was a path to happiness. They talk about how Zak got started teaching at San Quentin State Prison, his work on lifestyle interventions and being open to opportunities.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
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Aug 2, 2022
“Make That Dream a Reality” with Denise Soler Cox
Denise Soler Cox (she/her) is an author, film director and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Denise shares the concept for “Project Eñye” and how screening #44 changed everything about her film. They talk about “Los Trapos Sucios Se Lavan En Casa” and how Latinx families speak about mental health, how her film sparked something within the viewers to share their secrets and the power of our individual experience.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
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Jul 26, 2022
#BlackMentalHealth with Lorenzo Lewis & Kelechi Ubozoh
Lorenzo Lewis (he/him) is the Founder of the Confess Project; America’s First Mental Health Barbershop Movement and Kelechi Ubozoh (she/her) ) is a mental health consultant, advocate, author and they share the importance of talking about Black Mental Health. They both talk about how they got inspired to do the work they are doing and how representation matters. This discuss pushing forward community crisis response, creating opportunities for the communities to be healers for our Black mental health and the concerns with 988 but also what an opportunity it could become if done right.
This episode is sponsored by Janssen Neuroscience and Supported by The Painted Brain, a California based Peer Run Organization.
https://paintedbrain.org/ubu-black-mental-health/
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Jul 19, 2022
#BlackMentalHealth with Ellis Gordon Jr.
Ellis Gordon Jr. (he/him) is treasurer of NAMI Urban Los Angeles and he is the former husband of Bebe Moore Campbell. Ellis shares the story of how he met Bebe Moore Campbell and why it was so important to name the month of July after Bebe. They talk about the inception of NAMI Urban Los Angeles, how NAMI is community-centric and community-centered and continuing the goal of erasing the stigma.
This episode is sponsored by Janssen Neuroscience and Supported by The Painted Brain, a California based Peer Run Organization.
https://paintedbrain.org/ubu-black-mental-health/
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Jul 12, 2022
“No CARE Court” with Andreya Garcia-Ponce De Leon, Asantewaa Boykin and Shonique Williams
Shonique Williams (she/her) is the Founder of the Ezekiel’s Project and No CARE Court Coalition, Asantewaa Boykin (she/her) R.N MICN, is an Emergency RN and the co-founder of APTP (Anti Police - Terror Project), Andreya Garcia-Ponce De Leon (she/her) is the Executive Director of San Bernardino Free Them All and Project Amiga and they are all Unapologetically Black Unicorns. They discuss Senate Bill 1338 - CARE Court and all of its shortcomings. They talk about how they all got involved in the No CARE Court Coalition, their experiences speaking during the hearings and reactions from some assembly members and holding our elected officials accountable.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Jul 5, 2022
“It’s Time for Us to Heal” with Enola Aird
Enola Aird is the Founder and President of the Community Healing Network and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Enola shares how she is mobilizing Black people to heal from the lie of white superiority and Black inferiority. They talk about the impact of Marcus Garvey, making the Emotional Emancipation Circles a safe space for Black people and defying the lie and embracing the truth.
To learn more about Emotional Emancipation Circles visit: https://communityhealingnet.org/
To secure your seat at the lunch table for an “Emotional Lunch Break” visit: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0lc-6oqzopGt2ONlqQzNxruZz0EUBp9BQ1?fbclid=IwAR1QBVIUPBYdRFm0R_9dF55tPpLEBRxgy1XTqI-v-2Plu3jZcaADuM3GJv0
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Jun 28, 2022
#BlackMentalHealth with Toni McNeil
Toni McNeil (she/hers) is the Lead Community Organizer with Faith in the Valley and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Toni does community organizing in rural areas and she shares how there are lack of services and support in those communities. They talk about trauma being passed down in the Black community and why the work always has to be trauma informed, moving toward creating more healing spaces for Black people and the impact of Safe Black Space.
This episode is sponsored by Janssen Neuroscience and Supported by The Painted Brain, a California based Peer Run Organization.
https://paintedbrain.org/ubu-black-mental-health/
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Jun 21, 2022
“Cognitive Liberation” with Katherine and Rebecca Grainger
Katherine Grainger (she/her) is a Managing Partner at Civitas Public Affairs Group and Rebecca Grainger (she/her) is a Distinguished Educator and they are both Unapologetically Black Unicorns. Katherine and Rebecca both discuss the importance of understanding and moving policy to fix and change systems. They talk the history of Critical Race Theory and the language behind it, the work they’re doing with The Black Policy Institute and the freedom of cognitive liberation.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Jun 14, 2022
“Let Your Freak Flag Fly” with Sylvie Trevena
Sylvie Trevena (she/her) is a writer and Program Associate and Executive Assistant at Well Being Trust and she is also an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Sylvie shares why being a parent is so important to her and her experiences raising her transgender son Jake. They talk about checking in with your friends while also taking your own temperature, trying to speak with kids about school safety and having hope for the next generation surrounding mental health.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Jun 7, 2022
“Get In Where You Fit In” with Jalyn Radziminski
Jalyn Radziminski (they/she) is an activist whose work is dedicated to advocating for voter rights, racial equity, and accessibility for the BIPOC Disability Community and they are an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Jalyn talks about starting the non-profit “Count US IN” and how they are trying to elevate people’s voices and foster inclusive and equitable political participation. They talk about how they are trying to slowly change the culture, celebrating small wins and how they both find time to rest.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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May 31, 2022
#BlackMentalHealth – Lived Expertise with Dr. Jonathan Edwards & Rayshell Chambers
Dr. Jonathan Edwards and Rayshell Chambers share the importance of talking about Black Mental Health. They talk about implementing a plan for your emotional health including a Wellness Recovery Action Plan and vision boards. They discuss the importance of language, finding and reaching out to the people in your support network and how they address the issues of racial inequities.
This episode is sponsored by Janssen Neuroscience and Supported by The Painted Brain, a California based Peer Run Organization.
https://paintedbrain.org/ubu-black-mental-health/
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May 24, 2022
“Everything Will Be Alright” with Alfred Nomad
Alfred Nomad (he/him) is an artist and activist that created the project “Everything Will Be Alright Initiative” which raises funds to provide free therapy sessions for black creatives and he is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Alfred shares where the concept for his initiative came from and how he connected with mental health organizations. They talk about being accessible through music, taking the initiative to see a therapist and the power in vulnerability.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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May 17, 2022
“Love Conquers All” with Janell Grace & Malik Glass
Janell Grace (she/her) and Malik Glass (he/him) are the writers and directors of the film and graphic novel “Love Conquers All” and they are an Unapologetically Black Unicorns. Janell and Malik talk about how they met and the inspiration behind their story about mental health. They talk about the value of Black representation in their work, the significance of the title “Love Conquers All” and the details of their upcoming film premiere for Mental Health Awareness month.
For tickets to the ”Love Conquers All” Film Premiere:
https://www.nellynellproductions.com/merch/p/love-conquers-all-film-premiere
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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May 10, 2022
“Be Heard” with Dr. Ben Miller
Dr. Ben Miller, PsyD (he/him) is the President of Well Being Trust, a national foundation committed to advancing the mental, social and spiritual health of the nation and he is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Dr. Miller shares the importance of improvising, being creative and being a leader. They talk about improving the system(s), trying not to fragment the mental health system and checking in on those around you to see how they are truly doing.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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May 3, 2022
“Nothing About Us, Without Us” with Helen “Skip” Skipper
Helen “Skip” Skipper (She/Her/Queen) is the Senior Manager of Peer Services at New York City Criminal Justice Agency and she is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Skip shares about who she is by starting with where she’s been and where she is now. They talk about the hamster wheel of recidivism, the Friendship Bench and using your peer experience with intention.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Apr 26, 2022
#BlackMentalHealth with Dr. Shedrick Martin
Dr. Shedrick Martin is a psychiatric pharmacist and he shares his role with patients on the front lines. Dr. Martin explains ways to empower the patient and the focus on removing barriers to care. They talk about building relationships with your pharmacists, implementing more training around mental health to reduce stigma and addressing equity and our Black mental health.
This episode is sponsored by Janssen Neuroscience and Supported by The Painted Brain, a California based Peer Run Organization.
https://paintedbrain.org/ubu-black-mental-health/
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Apr 19, 2022
“Giving Power to the Community” with Taleed El-Sabawi
Taleed El-Sabawi (she/her) is lawyer, she has her PhD in Public Health, she’s an Assistant Professor at Elon University School of Law and she is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Taleed shares how she got involved in Addiction & Mental Health Policy. They talk about the CAHOOTS mobile response model, giving power to the community, harm reduction and the background behind the Crack/Pipe Act.
A Model for Defunding: An Evidence-Based Statute for Behavioral Health Crisis Response: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3683432
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Apr 12, 2022
“You Are Way More Powerful Than You Think” with Tansy McNulty
Tansy McNulty (she/her) is the founder “1M4” which is a member-led organization working to eliminate police brutality through legal action and advocacy and increase representation in the criminal justice system and she is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Tansy shares what motivated her to start “1M4” and how she came up with the name. They talk about how Tansy is seeking to transform our criminal justice system, the intersection of Black people and mental health police response and the importance of remembering your power.
Mobile Crisis Unit guide: https://www.1m4.org/mcu-coresponder-info
For more information on 1M4: https://www.1m4.org/home
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Apr 5, 2022
“Being Young & Black in America” with Joseph Yusuf and Cloud Benn
Joseph Yusuf (He/Him) and Cloud Benn (They/Them) are both part of A New Deal for Youth which is a youth-led, youth-centered effort advocating for the creation of new systems, policies, investments, and structures that reimagine life for young people in America and they are both Unapologetically Black Unicorns. Joseph gives the six demands to change the norms of society and Cloud shares how she got involved in advocacy work. They talk about how every Black and Brown voice matters when speaking about social change, how the road to change takes a while and the trauma of being young and Black in America.
For more information on the New Deal for Youth visit: https://newdealforyouth.org/
To join the movement: https://newdealforyouth.org/join-the-movement
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Mar 29, 2022
#BlackMentalHealth with Bre Williams
Bre Williams (she/her) is the Senior Programs Manager and Advanced Level WRAP Facilitator at PEERS. Bre shares how she got into this work and how she defines peer support. They talk about meeting Black folks where they are at their churches, finding community and connections, the benefits of having a WRAP Plan and how our mental health doesn’t define our destiny.
This episode is sponsored by Janssen Neuroscience and Supported by The Painted Brain, a California based Peer Run Organization.
https://paintedbrain.org/ubu-black-mental-health/
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Mar 22, 2022
“We Can Change the Narrative if We Change the Storytellers” with Jay Austin
Jay Austin (he/him) is an advanced communications strategist and creative director, an advocate for decarceration and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Jay shares how RLENTLSS came to be and how our ideas are informed by our life experiences. They talk about how Jay is trying to do his part to improve the diversion programs, looking for applicants with different backgrounds including a criminal record and the intersections of mental health and the criminal legal system.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Mar 15, 2022
“Let’s End The Sanism” with Stefanie Lyn Kaufman-Mthimkhulu
Stefanie Lyn Kaufman-Mthimkhulu (they/she) is the Founder & Executive Director of Project LETS and they are an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. They both confess why they have become tired of trying to educate people and how separate is never equal. They talk about Project LETS, what’s missing with 988 and that there are places where you can make a difference.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
If you’d like to volunteer to help build non-carceral crisis response systems, visit Project LETS: https://projectlets.org/
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Mar 8, 2022
“Stepping in Your Own Boldness and Power” with Lorenzo Lewis
Lorenzo Lewis (he/him) is the Founder of the Confess Project; America’s First Mental Health Barbershop Movement and he is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Lorenzo explains how the Confess Project meets people where they are and how he’s trying to make the barbershop a place for support. They talk about how Lorenzo saw opportunity at the other end of what he thought were failures, trying to spread the new “988” number through the barbershops and the important areas they train their barbers in including: active listening, validation, positive communication and stigma reduction.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Mar 1, 2022
“Your Story is Valuable” with Brenda Vaca
Brenda Vaca (she/hers) is a published poet, the Founder of Riot of Roses Publishing House and she is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Brenda talks about her debut collection of poetry “Riot of Roses” and the origin of the title. They talk about how they had to fight for themselves in school, sharing the backstory of Brenda’s Aunt and her schizophrenia diagnosis, their religious ties and why it’s important to keep telling your stories.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Feb 22, 2022
#BlackMentalHealth with Dr. Curley Bonds
Dr. Curley Bonds (he/him) is the Chief Medical Officer for the Los Angeles Country Department of Mental Health. Dr. Bonds talks about his experience as a psychiatrist and the events that influenced his decision to become a psychiatrist. They talk about collaborative care, being mindful of the protective measures we use for our metal health and motivating more future psychiatrists of color.
This episode is sponsored by Janssen Neuroscience and Supported by The Painted Brain, a California based Peer Run Organization.
https://paintedbrain.org/ubu-black-mental-health/
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Feb 15, 2022
“We’ve Been Here” with Tanya DePass
Tanya DePass (she/her) is a journalist, activist, streamer and she is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Tanya speaks on the RPG (Roll Playing Games) she created “Into The Motherlands” and how she’s telling a story through a Black lens. They talk about the tools for safety and consent while gaming, they talk about Tanya’s mental health work with the nonprofit “Take This” and creating things and spaces that speak to the Black experience.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Feb 8, 2022
“Lift As We Climb” with Dr. Chyrell Bellamy
For Black History Month, we go back to an earlier episode to hear from a black woman who is doing amazing things! Chyrell Bellamy (she/her/they), PhD is an Associate Professor of Yale School of Medicine's Department of Psychiatry, a Director of Peer Services & Research and an Unapologetic Black Unicorn. Chyrell speaks on her background in the work of HIV and her transition to mental health. They share their experiences about being black in the mental health field, the importance of sharing your lived experience and they offer hope for those struggling with mental health conditions.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
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Feb 1, 2022
“Divorcing Danger from Mental Health” with Asantewaa Boykins
Asantewaa Boykin (she/hers) R.N MICN, is an Emergency RN and the co-founder of APTP (Anti Police - Terror Project), helped developed Mental Health First and she is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Asantewaa speaks on why we should minimize police contact with those who are in the midst of a mental health crisis and working on divorcing danger from mental health. They talk about how to contact Mental Health First, the concerns that we are creating a “crisis system industrial complex”, mental health crisis response and the damaging outcomes especially for communities of color and understanding that the boxes aren’t real.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Jan 25, 2022
#BlackMentalHealth with Courtney Billington
Courtney Billington (he/him) is the President of Janssen Neuroscience, a Mental Health & Wellness Advocate, veteran and community volunteer. Courtney shares his journey with Janssen Neuroscience and Johnson & Johnson and how his father’s dementia made him want to be part of the change. They talk about the political and social events that shape their approach on how Janssen Neuroscience relates to patients and providers of color, how Courtney wants his legacy to be about lives changed and the importance of mental health and wellness across the continuum of care for the Black community especially those with the greatest mental health needs.
This episode is sponsored by Janssen Neuroscience and Supported by The Painted Brain, a California based Peer Run Organization.
https://paintedbrain.org/ubu-black-mental-health/
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Jan 18, 2022
“A Call to Strengthen Men’s Mental Health” with Henry Zhu
Henry Zhu (he/him) is the Chief of Staff at The Jed Foundation and he is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Henry shares how he got involved with the JED Foundation and how he found mentors along the way. They talk about youth mental health and finding a voice that youth can resonate with, men’s mental health, trying to advance BIPOC leadership and advocates as well as some of their wellness strategies.
Henry Zhu’s report – “A Call to Strengthen Men’s Mental Health”:
https://jedfoundation.org/news-views/a-call-to-strengthen-mens-mental-health/
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Jan 11, 2022
“People Like Us Get Better” with Lori Kerr
Lori Kerr (she/her) is a Peer Support Specialist located in Los Angeles County and she is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Lori is using the arts as a medium to connect to people and have people connect to their own strengths and abilities. They talk about how Lori’s experiences with trying to hold a job while being homeless has helped her become an effective Job Developer, how playing games can bring people together and her passion for making dolls with peers.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Jan 4, 2022
“Give Them Love” with Cornelle Jenkins
Cornelle Jenkins, J.D., MBA (he/him) is the Director of Strategic Initiatives at California Alliance of Child & Family Services and he is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Cornelle shares what he does at CACFS and for the Catalyst Center and how it’s been a fulfilling line of work. They talk about trauma informed care, flourishing because of the work they are doing, the things they do for their own self-care and giving our kids of color more love and let them be who they are.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
To learn more about the Catalyst Center visit: www.catalyst-center.org
To learn more about The California Alliance of Child and Family Services visit: www.cacfs.org
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Dec 28, 2021
#BlackMentalHealth – Lived Expertise with Dr. Jonathan Edwards & Rayshell Chambers
Dr. Jonathan Edwards and Rayshell Chambers share the importance of talking about Black Mental Health. They talk about implementing a plan for your emotional health including a Wellness Recovery Action Plan and vision boards. They discuss the importance of language, finding and reaching out to the people in your support network and how they address the issues of racial inequities.
This episode is sponsored by Janssen Neuroscience and Supported by The Painted Brain, a California based Peer Run Organization.
https://paintedbrain.org/ubu-black-mental-health/
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Dec 21, 2021
Keris & her Dad
This is a special episode for the holiday season, Keris goes to their family home to sit down and have a brief conversation with her dad Howard A Myrick, PhD. They talk about where her father is living now and the politics of his current home state of Florida. Keris and her father have a conversation about critical race theory, they share stories about her mother and her dad shares his memories of the day Keris was born in a German hospital.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Dec 14, 2021
UBU Live: School Mental Health Broadcast
The CA Alliance of Child and Family Services (CA Alliance) hosted a special broadcast on October 19, 2021 to put a spotlight on School Mental Health programming. This was a vital conversation with CA Alliance Members, special appearances by State Senator Connie Leyva, State Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva, and a student from Southwest High School Laura Avila. There is also a panel, facilitated by UBU Keris Myrick, with CA Alliance member agencies Jonathan Goldfinger (Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services), Josh Leonard (East Bay Agency for Children), Allison Becwar (Lincoln), and Jenna Nunes (Sierra Vista Child and Family Services).
Please also review the U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory: Protecting Youth Mental Health: https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-youth-mental-health-advisory.pdf
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Dec 7, 2021
“Recovery Means Liberation” with Haner Hernández
Haner Hernández (he/him) Ph.D., CPS, CADCII, LADCI has worked for 34 years in the health and human service field developing, implementing, and evaluating culturally and linguistically intelligent youth and adult health prevention, intervention, treatment, and recovery support programs and he is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Haner shares when came over to the United States with his mother when he was 4 years old from Puerto Rico and what it means to him to be a person in long term recovery. They talk about the immigration experience coming into the U.S., the issue with the prison system, the progression of pharmaceutical advertising, racism and the multiple pathways to recovery.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Nov 30, 2021
#BlackMentalHealth
This is an introduction to a new series for Unapologetically Black Unicorns focusing on Black Mental Health. We’ll talk about lived experience as Black people with mental health conditions and family members supporting someone with a mental health condition. Keris will speak with psychiatrists and pharmacists among others all discussing Black Mental Health. #BlackMentalHealth will also provide resources and information about actions you can create for your Black mental health.
This episode is sponsored by Janssen Neuroscience and supported by The Painted Brain, a California based Peer Run Organization.
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Nov 23, 2021
“Being Thankful”
This is a special episode about giving thanks. Keris shares why she’s struggling this holiday season and where it all stems from. She explains how it is hard to be positive with everything we are going through in this country but how it is important to fight together. She finishes it up with what she is thankful for including all the guests she’s had on the podcast and what she’s wishing for us all.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Nov 16, 2021
“My Psychosis Saved Me” with Kat McIntosh
Kat McIntosh (They/Them) is the Manager of Global Peer Support at Mental Health America and they are an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Kat shares their personal journey with their mental health while living in the Caribbean Island of Tobago and why they wanted to become an advocate for themselves. They talk about the Global Mental Health Peer Network, some of the issues with universal health care, how to support people within organizations, being a voice for our own experience, and how their psychosis saved them.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Nov 9, 2021
”Cool or creepy?: Tech and Mental Health” with Dr. John Torous
Dr. John Torous (He/his), MD is a Psychiatrist, Director: digitalpsych.org at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, an expert in “mobile mental health technologies” and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Dr. Torous shares the concept behind MindApps.org and the connection between technology and mental health. They talk his tech background, how to navigate the privacy settings through your apps, the oversight of the digital mental health space and he the need for digital literacy.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Nov 2, 2021
“Representation and Intention Matters” with Pat Deegan
Pat Deegan (she/her) Ph.D. has a doctorate in clinical psychology, is the founder of Pat Deegan & Associates and she is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Pat shares when she got her “Prognosis of Doom” and how she eventually turned it around. They talk about Certified Personal Medicine Coaches, medication empowerment and a column she co-edits entitled “Personal Accounts. She also speaks about the importance of representation and intention in her work to ensure people ‘see’ themselves in her work and the rage that comes with oppression.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Oct 26, 2021
“Creating a Society of Radical Inclusion” with Dr. Ruth Shim
Dr. Ruth Shim (she/her) M.D., M.P.H., is an Associate Dean of Diverse and Inclusive Education, the Director of Cultural Psychiatry, an Author and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Dr. Shim shares how she got interested in psychiatry and the stigma of psychiatrists within the profession of medicine. They talk about social determinants of mental health and race equity, creating inclusive spaces, cultural competency, and the concept for her new published book “Social (In)Justice and Mental Health.”
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Oct 19, 2021
Unapologetically Black Unicorns: Live and in Living Color
UBU was recorded live on September 21, 2021, during the Annual Conference for the New York Association of Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services (NYAPRS). In this workshop leading mental health leaders from diverse backgrounds featured on the Unapologetically Black Unicorns podcast join in a lively discussion about lived experiences, leadership, showing up as our authentic selves and addressing equity in behavioral health plus much more. The panelists include:
Khatera Aslami Tamplen (she/her), BS, Certified Advanced WRAP Facilitator
Alameda County Behavioral Health Care Services
Office of Peer Support Services Manager
Jei Africa, (he/him) PsyD, MA
Director, Behavioral Health and Recovery Services
County of Marin
Chyrell Bellamy, (She/her/they) PhD, MSW
Associate Professor, Yale School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry
Joint Director, Yale Program for Recovery and Community Health (PRCH)
Rayshell Chambers, (she/her) MPA
Chief Operating Officer/Co- Founder
Painted Brain
To…
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Oct 12, 2021
“We Have the Mic” with Lynnae Brown
Lynnae Brown (she/her/hers) is a storycoach and the director of Howie the Harp Advocacy Center at Community Access and she is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Lynnae shares her journey on how she became the director at Howie the Harp and how they have extensive training programs to teach people in mental health recovery to become peer support workers. They talk about the stories we tell ourselves that make a difference in our lives, the backstory and influence of Howie the Harp and getting people in mental health recovery prepared for a workplace environment.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Oct 5, 2021
“If it Doesn’t Serve Us, We’ll Build our Own” with Brandon J. Johnson
Brandon J. Johnson (he/him) is a Suicide Prevention Specialist, the host of The Black Mental Wellness Lounge and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Brandon shares the inspiration for creating the YouTube page "The Black Mental Wellness Lounge" and how he’s trying to use it as a healing space. They talk about taking care of your metal wellness while trying to dismantle systemic issues, understanding the importance of resting for the cause and how the metrics for suicide in the Black community have been overlooked.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Sep 28, 2021
“The Greatest Form of Support is Being Heard” with Dr. Jonathan P. Edwards
Dr. Jonathan P. Edwards (he/him) has worked as a public health professional for more than 25 years, serves as adjunct faculty at Columbia School of Social Work, is an emerging researcher, plays a major role nationally in peer support workforce development and as a Board Member of National Association of Peer Supporters and he is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Dr. Edwards shares his personal story including his upbringing and his recovery journey. They talk about Dr. Edwards working in both social work and peer support, advancing leadership for people of color, and the impact of the self-help tools and resources on his personal growth.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Sep 21, 2021
“Recovery is Possible” with Philip Rutherford
Philip Rutherford (he/him) is the Chief Operating Officer at Faces and Voices of Recovery and he is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Phil shares what his organization is doing for Recovery Month and his story of navigating his pathway to recovery. They talk about how the “War on Drugs” was racially motivated, the experience of Black folks in the recovery community through a new initiative Black Faces and Black Voices and why it is hard for the Black communities to publicly grieve.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
To contact Faces & Voices of Recovery go to: https://facesandvoicesofrecovery.org/about/who-we-are/staff/
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Sep 14, 2021
“Recovery from a Brazilian perspective” with Ana Florence
Ana Florence, PhD (she/her) is a Clinical Psychologist, a postdoctoral associate at the Yale Program for Recovery and Community and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. It’s the second week of recovery month and we hear Ana’s perspective on how psychology differs in Brazil compared to the United States and how the Psychiatric Reform Movement brought everyone together. They talk about the “Wisdom Project” and how Keris also got involved, how Brazilians have been hesitant with the term “recovery” because it’s coming from U.S., the disparities and inequities that occurred during the pandemic and the impact of Dainius Pūras, former UN Special Rapporteur on Rights to Health.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
The “Mad In America” article Ana Florence did with Dainius Pūras: https://www.madinamerica.com/2020/05/bringing-human-rights-mental-health-care-interview-dainius-…
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Sep 7, 2021
“The Black Box” with Dr. Arthur C. Evans
We kickoff off Recovery Month with Dr. Arthur C. Evans who is the CEO of the American Psychological Association and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Keris asks Dr. Evans how he first got involved in psychology and how he eventually became a leader in the field. They talk about his mural projects on behavior health, the “Black Box” metaphor and the importance of taking risks.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Aug 31, 2021
“Afrofuturism is Sankofa” with Dr. LaWana Richmond
Dr. LaWana Richmond (Her/hers) is the Cofounder and Organizer of the Afrofuturism Lounge, the Creator of Afrofuturism Dream Tank, the Coauthor of the “Delayed But Not Denied” series and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Keris and Dr. Richmond reminisce about the first time they met at WonderCon and the events they’ve attended together since then. They talk about Afrofuturism, the film Sankofa, why we should get rid of the word “normal” and the details behind the upcoming AfroCon event.
For tickets and for more information about AfroCon; go to: https://www.afrofuturismlounge.com/
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Aug 24, 2021
“Speak Up and Say Something” with Chloe Aquart
Chloe Aquart (her/hers/queen) is a former prosecutor who now works in criminal justice reform and she is an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Chloe talks about going from working as a prosecutor to working in community based anti-violence work and how that experience has helped her. They talk about what anti-violence work looks like on the ground, how we can support our credible messengers and having a conversation about trauma reactions.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Aug 17, 2021
“Be Visible as your Fully Authentic Self” with Dr. Jei Africa
Dr. Jei Africa (he/his/him) is the first openly transgender county behavioral health director in California and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Dr. Africa shares his experience being raised in the Philippines and the disparities he saw when he came to the United States. They talk about bringing people together to create change, cultural humility and the importance of being visible.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Aug 10, 2021
“Journey of a Mental Health Beat Journalist” with Benedict Carey
Benedict Carey (he/him) is an award-winning reporter who recently retired from The New York Times and he’s an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Benedict talks about a series he wrote called “Lives Restored” about mental health and mental health care and how he included Keris in one of his profiles. They talk about the importance of highlighting the experience of those impacted by the mental health system, how as a science writer he got involved writing about mental health and getting peers involved from the very beginning.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Aug 3, 2021
“Value The Connection to Community” with Dr. Jorge Partida del Toro
Dr. Jorge Partida del Toro (he/him) is a Curandero, a Psychologist with international experience working with child soldiers and building intentional communities and he’s an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Dr. Partida Del Toro gives the backstory for how he got into psychology and how his grandmother played a significant role. They talk about institutional and structural racism, mixing Curanderismo Healing and Western Psychology and valuing the connection to our communities.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Jul 27, 2021
“Recovery is a Journey, Not a Destination” with Dr. Curley Bonds
Dr. Curley Bonds (He/Him) is the Chief Medical Officer for the Los Angeles Country Department of Mental Health and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Dr. Bonds shares his trajectory to becoming a psychiatrist and the stigma within the psychiatry profession. They talk about recovery, the impact of BeBe Moore Campbell and how we can help get more Black and Brown people in the health professions.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Jul 20, 2021
“Radical Reimagination” with Kelechi Ubozoh
Kelechi Ubozoh (she/her) is a mental health consultant, advocate, author and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Kelechi shares how she is often called just to be a person of color for speaking engagements and why at times it feels like tokenism. They talk about meeting people where they are, the book Kelechi co-edited “We've Been Too Patient: Voices from Radical Mental Health” and where we are with Black and Brown voices leading the peer and lived experience movement.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Jul 13, 2021
“What’s More Important than Human Beings?” with Caren Howard
Caren Howard (she/her) spent years working on Capitol Hill and is now currently the Director of Policy and Advocacy for Mental Health America as well as an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Caren shares how she got into policy work and her transition into mental health. They talk about homelessness issues, peer respite and what it takes to contribute to outside advocacy, inside advocacy, doing policy work and activism.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Jul 6, 2021
“The Whole is Greater than the Sum of its Parts” with Dr. Annelle Primm
Dr. Annelle Primm (she/her) holds a medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine, she is a community psychiatrist, an author and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Dr. Primm shares what influenced her to become a community psychiatrist and how she and Keris connected at NAMI Urban Los Angeles. They talk about the legacy of Bebe Moore Campbell, ways to increase our emotional fortitude during these troubling times for black and brown folks and some thoughts on how we can empower people in our communities.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
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Jun 29, 2021
“Don’t Agonize, Organize” with Khatera Aslami Tamplen
Khatera Aslami Tamplen (she/her) is a California Mental Health and Peer Leader and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Khatera shares her lived experience of fleeing the Afghan-Soviet War and her experience with the mental health system. They discuss how Khatera’s community shaped her, she explains her transition from a participant in WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) to an advanced facilitator plus she talks about the mentors who have influenced her throughout her life and career.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
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Jun 22, 2021
“Get Radical With Yourself” with Rayshell Chambers
Rayshell Chambers (she/her) is a mental health advocate, the Co-founder & Co-Director of Painted Brain and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn. Rayshell talks about the impact of doing the “grunt work” in group homes and how she’s used her lived experience to make things better. They discuss Rayshell’s work on Psychiatric Advanced Directives, her self-care routines, the work she’s been doing implementing anti-racist and liberation practices in mental health services and the workplace, and her efforts with the Black Mental Health Task Force.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
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Jun 15, 2021
“Radical Love” with Kristin Richardson Jordan
Kristin Richardson Jordan (she/her) is an activist, teacher, author and an Unapologetically Black Unicorn who is running for New York City Council District 9. Kristin talks about what made her jump from being an activist to running for City Council, being ranked #1 on Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s “Courage of Change” and her recent work in the community during the pandemic. They talk about finding housing for the homeless, police response to those in mental health crisis and Kristin’s survivor story.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
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Jun 10, 2021
“Lift As We Climb” with Dr. Chyrell Bellamy
Chyrell Bellamy (she/her/they), PhD is an Associate Professor of Yale School of Medicine's Department of Psychiatry, a Director of Peer Services & Research and an Unapologetic Black Unicorn. Chyrell speaks on her background in the work of HIV and her transition to mental health. They share their experiences about being black in the mental health field, the importance of sharing your lived experience and they offer hope for those struggling with mental health conditions.
If you or someone you know is in a mental or substance use disorder crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
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May 21, 2021
Introduction
Keris Jän Myrick is a nationally recognized mental health advocate and an unapologetic black unicorn. Keris explains what U.B.U. means and what the show is going to be about. Join the weekly conversation June 10th for the premiere of Unapologetically Black Unicorns.
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