Because Life

The title for this quick snippet of an episode might be super telling. However, these last nine months of podcasting have led to such encouraging and eye-opening experiences. While this isn't the end, I do want to take some space to regroup and figure out how to bring my best to all you great listeners who have supported me and brought forth your own mental health stories in such an inspiring way. Please continue to submit story ideas and show suggestions to the Because Life Instagram and I look forward to coming back with something great to share in the very near future.   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.   Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee   Produced by Dear Media

On today's episode, I wanted to look back on my fears and anxieties ahead of giving birth to baby Daxon at the end of last year. I'm turning another page in my diary to speak to you guys on things I learned from the process of giving birth and recommendations based on the experience I went through (say yes to the doula!) I also give an update on where I'm at in my postpartum journey and my mindset of trying to find the familiar in these moments of great change. I'm forever grateful for those of you who have been with me through this and have sent me messages of encouragement and stories of your own post-birth journeys. Also, tune in to listen to Daxon take on the role of special guest throughout the episode.   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.   Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee   Produced by Dear Media  

On today's episode, I'm joined by my good friend and fellow Elon alum, Miles Williams, an educator and self-proclaimed mental health warrior. We catch up with  “America's Covid Bae” (which I'm trademarking on his behalf) following his experience on the 11th season of Lifetime's Married at First Sight. Miles shares how he's faced his mental health journey throughout different moments in the last decade and we share different tips on how to find self-care practices that work best for you.   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.   Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Miles Williams: @themileswill   Photo for social (optional): https://www.instagram.com/p/Bkd-octAK-r/     Produced by Dear Media

In the spirit of being WORTH IT (because I know we all are), I'm speaking to you all solo in this episode on five practices and thoughts to keep in mind to help build self-confidence. The struggle continues to be real as some days prove harder to keep your head up over others. I hope these small yet mighty tips can encourage you to celebrate the small accomplishments and remind you of how much worth and unique presence you bring to this life. Starting with small motions can lead to BIG outcomes and I know the best is yet to come for all of us.   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.   Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee   Produced by Dear Media

In today's episode, we welcome back the wonderful Minaa B. to the co-host chair. She certainly brings the facts of the matter with her to the table as we debunk a list of common mental health myths and conspiracies. From mental health being stigmatized as a weakness, medication in mental health, exploring the world of therapy and what it's not, and everything in between! Sitting down with Minaa B. gave a lot of great insights and proclamations to combat some of the falsehoods that add toxicity to the mental health conversations. As we talk through each myth, I hope you find your sense of community and truth as we all take on our mental health journeys and challenges together.   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.   Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Minaa B: @minaa_b Produced by Dear Media

In today's episode, I take you all with me on a little Sydel life history trip to revisit some previous relationships of mine and speak to how my mental health journey was impacted over the course of those times in my life. Leading to my current relationship with my husband, Damion, and the steps we take every day to work together while also giving each other the space to work on ourselves separately when we need to. Many of you listeners have submitted questions regarding your own mental health and asked how to best navigate having a partner while also taking care of your mental. Whether it's a toxic relationship that you can't seem to let go of or a relationship that you want to continue to thrive, I hope to provide some comfort and acknowledgement to how to best create that space for your mental health while being with someone else. It's important to recognize your worth and value that you bring to the table and I want this episode to encourage you to take those needed moments for yourself.   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.   Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee   Produced by Dear Media

Getting super real with you all on this first episode of the new year. With everything that 2021 has brought me and my growing family, for this episode I wanted to fly solo and give you all a peek into how my world has changed since the very recent birth of my sweet baby boy, Daxon. Specifically, I wanted to update you all on my current postpartum journey and dive into the depths of the struggles and unexpected outcomes that even I thought I was well prepared for. While it's all happening in real time, I also share some tips of helpful thoughts and things to keep in mind as this journey can feel so different for each person going through it. I'm hopeful that some of these experiences I'm going through might encourage and strengthen others as we look to start this year together. You're stronger than you even realize, and I can't wait to continue sharing these personal updates and connecting with all of you.   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.   Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee   Produced by Dear Media

I can't believe how quickly this year has gone! As we wrap up 2021 together, I wanted to share a favorite episode of mine from this year which hopefully will help energize and prepare us for what's to come in 2022. Hope you enjoy!   In today's episode, I am joined by the Founder of The Pattern App, Lisa Donovan, for an illuminating conversation about using Astrology as a tool to navigate your mental health. We talk about how her own mental health struggles sparked her introduction to Astrology and how the practices she learned from it helped her forge her way out of turmoil. We discuss finding and living in our purpose and how she created The Pattern App as a tool for users to help understand their own purpose and navigate their mental health. Plus, she reads me (for filth).   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.   Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Lisa Donovan: @motherofpatterns   Produced by Dear Media

Just in time to greet the holidays, we're back with another installment of our “Ask A Therapist” series. On this episode, the wonderful Dr. Ebony joins me to answer YOUR questions about ways to deal with the stress and grief surrounding the holiday season while with family and friends. We take on your biggest questions on holiday anxieties including the pressure of affording gifts for loved ones, hosting the big day, along with tips to answer the age-old question of “why aren't you in a relationship yet?” Join us as we help navigate you through the taboo emotions and negatives that are often overlooked during the holiday season.   We love giving you guys a chance to hear from our incredible therapist co-hosts and we hope today's episode helps you as we all continue to step into uncharted territories. Make sure to follow @becauselifewithsydel to submit your questions for upcoming episodes!   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.   Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Dr. Ebony: @drebonyonline   Produced by Dear Media

On this episode of Because Life I'm joined by board-certified physician, clinical professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at both UCLA and USC, and the host of ‘The Fertile Life' podcast, Dr. Shahin Ghadir! I asked you guys to submit all your fertility questions, from burning taboo topics to how to navigate the trenches when you and your partner are at each other's throats. This episode is fully curated by you guys, so I hope you like it! We cover everything from how to know you need to see a fertility doctor, Dr. Ghadir's opinion on the #1 reason for fertility struggle (you'll be surprised), when to freeze your eggs (you'll be even more surprised), staying away from doctors and clinics that believe one size fits all, and why it's so important to be your own advocate.   I'm so grateful to have sat down with such an incredible doctor who understands his patients' journeys, because he's been on that journey too.   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.   Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Dr. Shahin Ghadir: @DrShahinGhadir   Produced by Dear Media

On today's episode, I sit down with 3-time Emmy winning journalist, TV host, activist, fellow podcaster, CEO, supermom of 2, and trailblazer: Catt Sadler! Together, we revisit our physical tolls and mental experiences with breakthrough Covid and how Catt's case threw her into the center of media attention. We also dive deep into Catt's mindset during her separation from E! News and how she set out to advocate for herself and other women in the workplace. Catt lets us in to her process of starting a new phase of her career and ways she creatively was able to build meaningful opportunities to change the narrative for herself! Catt also let me in on a little secret that lead to a FaceTime during our recording with my sister-in-law Ayesha to confirm or deny! For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources   Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions. Follow Because Life: @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:    @sydelcurrylee Follow Catt Sadler:  @iamcattsadler   Produced by Dear Media

In today's episode I'm joined by trailblazing YouTuber, entrepreneur, and New York Time Best Selling author Connor Franta! While I was technically interviewing Connor, this recording really felt like a fun, casual hang with a new friend. We discuss the pressures and tolls that are felt posting and talking as a public figure amidst cancel culture, the perks of taking a solo trip and romancing yourself, finding the balance between helping others and helping yourself and more. This recording in my due date month wouldn't be complete without contractions mid-recording that are fully caught on audio.   Thanks for being such a great sport, Connor! I feel so grateful to have sat down with Connor ahead of the launch of his newest book, House Fires. Make sure to get yourself a copy.   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.   Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Connor Franta: @connorfranta   Produced by Dear Media

As the day of taking on parenthood quickly approaches, I sit down with the one and only Damion Lee, my amazing husband. I asked you guys to submit your burning questions for us and boy, did you guys deliver! We talk about it all, catered by you, from our sex life while trying to conceive, the kind of parents we think each other will be, what a newborn will do to our lives, and for fun we answered a handful of unexpected rogue questions, just for you guys. This is probably the most unfiltered you've ever heard Damion, so come listen to it here first and join us as we get real with you and one another on the current states of our minds, nerves, and excitement over this new adventure. Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.   Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Damion Lee: @dami0nlee   Produced by Dear Media

In today's episode, we have another pinch-me collaboration! Joining me today is the lifestyle and wellness tastemaker, blogger, author, and the host of ‘The Blonde Files' podcast, Arielle Lorre! We hear the origin story of The Blonde Files and how she built an empire from an anonymous Instagram account. She opens up about her years-long battle with alcoholism and addiction, we discuss the work that goes into maintaining mental wellness in sobriety, and the role of alcohol in the world of self-care. We also discuss the blurred lines of working in the wellness industry and practicing your own self-care, finding your purpose and much more.   I'm so grateful Arielle joined us today and I hope our conversation gives you something to take with you. If you'd like to hear our conversation on her podcast, check out today's episode of ‘The Blonde Files' here.   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.     Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Arielle Lorre:  @ariellelorre   Produced by Dear Media

It's just me today, sitting down for a raw, intimate account of my state of mind going into the final stage of pregnancy. This is kind of like my diary and I wanted to let you in on my headspace since you've been with me throughout this entire journey. I discuss my fears about experiencing labor pains, why having an unmedicated birth is important to me, the support system I've set up for the process, and the fear of the unknown as I become a mother. Plus, we have a little cameo from Damion!   Thank you guys so much for following me on this journey every step of the way and I hope you enjoy my conversation with you today as we mark the final step of the pregnancy process and step into the next journey of motherhood.   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.     Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee   Produced by Dear Media

Today's episode is not just a special one…it's a dream collaboration for me. We have two powerhouse mothers, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, stars of the Real Housewives of Potomac, and the hosts of the ‘Reasonably Shady' podcast, Gizelle Bryant and Robyn Dixon! We get into navigating the passionate fandom of the Real Housewives franchise, learning to compartmentalize on-camera drama and your mental wellbeing, and setting boundaries on social media for you mental health. Plus, we discuss Robyn opening up about her ‘Pandemic Blues,' Gizelle's role as her support system through that difficult time, the mental toll of filming a Real Housewives reunion, and you know we had to dish on this year's reunion with Nicki Minaj.   I can't even tell you how thankful I am to Gizelle and Robyn for coming on the podcast and I hope you enjoy the conversation as much as I did! For more of these two, check out their podcast ‘Reasonably Shady.'   Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.     Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Gizelle Bryant: @gizellebryant Follow Robyn Dixon:  @robyndixon10 Follow Reasonably Shady:  @reasonablyshady     Produced by Dear Media

In today's episode, we have our first return guest! The trailblazing model, entrepreneur, podcast host, and new mom, Hunter McGrady, joins me for a conversation about navigating body image, sex and intimacy while pregnant...and get ready because we really go there. We discuss the jarring shift in body image as it changes throughout pregnancy, the complexities of pregnant sex, finding new ways to express intimacy, navigating all of the awkward conversations that arise with your partner during pregnancy, and so much more.   This is a conversation that I personally have been dying to have and I could think of no better person to have it with than Hunter - I'm so grateful to have her join me again. I hope you can take something from our conversation, or at least, enjoy a little tea spilling. If you'd like to hear more from Hunter, check out her podcast with her amazing sister, Michaela, 'Model Citizen.'   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.     Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Hunter McGrady: @huntermcgrady Produced by Dear Media

We have a very special episode for you guys today! She is an author, entrepreneur, television host, actress, model, supermom, and so much more… my sister-in-law Ayesha is here! She opens up for the first time about her struggles with postpartum depression and we get into why it's not discussed enough, especially among black women. We talk about it all, including battling mental health struggles in the public eye, pre-labor anxieties, and so much more.   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.     Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Ayesha: @ayeshacurry Produced by Dear Media

We are back with another installment of our 'Ask a Therapist' series today, and our girl Tasha Bailey is joining us from across the pond to answer your questions about reacclimating to life post-pandemic. We get into navigating social anxiety after a year and a half of isolation, managing heightened health anxiety, combatting COVID fatigue, preparing for seasonal depression, and much more.   We love giving you guys a chance to hear from our incredible therapist co-hosts and we hope today's episode helps you as we all continue to step into unchartered territories. Make sure to follow @becauselifewithsydel to submit your questions for upcoming episodes!   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.     Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Tasha Bailey: @realtalk.therapist Produced by Dear Media

I am flying solo in the hosting chair again today to bring you another very special episode with a VERY special guest: first-generation Bangladeshi-American activist, entrepreneur, author, self-care expert, beauty guru, and mother-to-be, Nabela Noor! We discuss maintaining your mental health in the public eye, cultural and generational differences when it comes to discussing mental health, and Nabela shares the incredible journey she faced to become a mother-to-be. We shared our feelings of invalidity facing fertility struggles, the trauma of miscarriages, overcoming fear and learning to enjoy pregnancy after miscarrying, and what we hope we can instill in our future children.   I am so honored she joined me today for this amazing conversation, and I hope you enjoy as much as I did! If you'd like to pass on the incredible message she shared to her future baby, check out Nabela's children's book, ‘Beautifully Me' anywhere books are sold.   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.     Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Nabela Noor: @nabela   Produced by Dear Media

In today's extra special episode, I am joined by lifestyle and fashion tastemaker and the star of the hit Netflix series, Love is Blind, Giannina Milady Gibelli. We discuss being authentically and unapologetically yourself in an unnatural setting - especially in front of TV cameras - the mental toll of isolation in ‘The Pods,' and radical honesty in romantic relationships. Plus, you know I couldn't have Giannina on and not get some tea on ‘Love is Blind,' and her current dating life….   I am so grateful she joined us to share her mental health journey and I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did!   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.     Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Giannina Gibelli:  @gianninagibelli

In today's episode, Minaa B. joins me in the co-host chair for the second installment of our ‘Ask a Therapist' series! Today, we're discussing all things relationships and mental health. We get into how to identify a codependent relationship, setting boundaries in an existing relationship, overcoming dating anxieties, determining if breaks are healthy, and much more! We love hearing from you and hope these episodes help you in some way get through your mental health challenges.   Be sure to follow @becauselifewithsydel to submit your questions for future ‘Ask a Therapist' episodes!     For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.     Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Minaa:  @minaa_b     Produced by Dear Media

In today's episode, Dr. Ebony joins me in the co-host chair to catch up on all things mental health in both our personal lives and in the culture. I talk further about the mental toll of the abortion ban with our resident Texan, along with facing the uncharted territory that is grieving your identity pre-baby, and more.   For our interview, we are joined by Aaron who is pioneering conversations about mental health as a Black man in the South, to discuss generational trauma, generation gaps in mental health literacy, and learning to forgive while holding people accountable.   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Abortion Support Groups and Counseling:  plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-greater-texas   Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.     Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Dr. Ebony:  @drebonyonline   Produced by Dear Media

In today's episode, Jordan joins me in the co-host chair to discuss the goings on in our lives and the world. We discuss some unfortunate personal news becoming public in my life, balanced with a love-filled week of my baby shower and anniversary. Then, we get into current events in the world of mental health, including the Texas Abortion Restrictions and the toll this takes on not only feminine health but on mental health as well.   For our interview, we are joined by the amazing Zoya, who suffered a traumatic breakup years ago and is learning to build herself back up and her walls back down as she heals.   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Abortion Support Groups and Counseling:  plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-greater-texas Donate to the Trevor Project:  give.thetrevorproject.org/   Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.     Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Jordan Madison:  @therapyismyjam   Produced by Dear Media

In today's very special episode, we are continuing our podcast collaboration streak with the incredible and trailblazing Hunter and Michaela McGrady. The superstar models, podcast hosts, entrepreneurs, and sisters join me today to have an honest conversation about all things relationships. We discuss the beauty of being an Auntie, how our upbringing influences our approach to relationships, opening up about mental health struggles in new relationships, navigating body image in the public eye (especially as a model), and so much more. I am so thankful and lucky these incredible ladies joined me, shared their stories and insights, and brightened my day. I hope it brightens yours as well!   To hear more from Hunter and Michaela, subscribe to their amazing podcast, ‘Model Citizen' or cop their incredible ‘All Worthy' fashion products.   “You've survived all of your worst days”   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.     Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Hunter McGrady:  @huntermcgrady Follow Michaela McGrady:  @michaelamcgrady   Produced by Dear Media

In today's very special episode, I am joined by philanthropist, award-winning OB-GYN and the self-proclaimed Olivia Pope of Vaginas, Dr. Jackie Walters! We discuss the inextricable link between feminine health and mental health, Dr. Jackie shares her own harrowing fertility journey, and the societal pressures on women in the realm of fertility. I had so much fun, learned so much, and was so inspired having Dr. Jackie on the pod and I hope you enjoy it too!    “Pain has a purpose. Misery gives you ministry. And struggles give you strength. And I can certainly say that my fertility struggle has made me stronger every day.”   Listen to Dr. Jackie's podcast, 'Dr. Jackie's Point of V" or pick up her book, "The Queen V." For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources   Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.     Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Dr. Jackie:  @therealdrjackie   Produced by Dear Media

In today's episode, my girl Jordan joins me as our cohost to kick off our new series, Ask a Therapist! We asked you to submit your questions about all things mental health on Instagram (follow us at @becauselifewithsydel if you aren't already to join the conversation) and today, we are here to answer them and provide insights that will hopefully help you wherever you are in your journey. We get into stress vs. anxiety, techniques to practice when anxiety grips you, and processing triggers in a healthy way when they arise in our daily lives. We also share insights on how to support loved ones who are struggling with their mental health, navigating your own mental health in a relationship, and taking the step to start therapy.   We so enjoyed answering your questions today and we hope we can provide some help or support to someone out there. We'll be rolling out more ‘Ask a Therapist' episodes in the future, so be sure to follow us on Instagram to join the conversation going forward!   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.     Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Jordan Madison:  @therapyismyjam

In today's episode, our resident ‘Healing Consultant' from across the pond, Tasha Bailey, joins me as our co-host.  We check in on our feelings today and how to treat our feelings, especially the negative ones, as guests in our home, rather than annoyances we want to get rid of. Also, we do have a kiki about our shared obsession with ‘Love Island' (which, to our delight, our very special guest shared as well).   Speaking of our very special guest…today, we are joined by the amazing Brittany Sinitch, also known as FiveFootOneTeacher. A survivor of the Parkland, Florida school shooting, Brittany is fostering hope and change through her platform on social media. After her world was turned upside down in February 2018, the classroom that was once her “favorite place in the world” became a crime scene she never wanted to revisit. In the year following the tragedy, she made the difficult decision to step away from the classroom and during that time, she started the Unbreakable Organization, which gives back to communities and schools who have been impacted by tragedy. She joins us today to talk about experiencing tragedy, how she found the strength to get through it and how she navigates PTSD and triggers to this day now that she's returned to the classroom. We are so honored she joined us to share her story and we hope you are as touched as we are by her.   To learn more about Brittany and her incredible work with the Unbreakable Organization, check out their site here:  https://theunbreakableorg.com/   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.     Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Brittany Sinitch:  @fivefootoneteacher   Produced by Dear Media

Our resident ‘healing consultant' (still my favorite job title), Tasha Bailey, joins me as our cohost today. After a little catch-up, we assign flavors to our moods. Tasha is feeling vanilla with sprinkles and I am the happiest flavor I could think of – the one that brings me back to field days at school…rainbow sherbet. Today's guest is the wonderful Raechel. We discuss grappling with anxiety growing up with a family that doesn't recognize mental health struggles, learning how to become the parent you needed when anxiety is triggered, or finding your own rainbow sherbet moment that can bring you joy in a dark moment. We also talk external pressures seeping into self esteem, establishing safe spaces in your life, and the conversation surrounding mental health in the Black community.   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.     Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Molly:  @realtalk.therapist

In today's very special episode, I am joined by my new friend, the amazing, Molly Carmel. Molly is an addictions and eating disorder therapist, author of ‘Breaking Up with Sugar,' and host of the podcast ‘What You're Craving.' We talk about the complicated relationship we have with food, the toxic impact diet culture has on that relationship, recovering from food addiction and disordered eating, and how we can learn to love and appreciate our bodies. Molly details her own journey overcoming disordered eating and addiction, her experience breaking up with sugar, and the ongoing road to recovery.   “The harder the choice, the better the outcome.”    If you enjoyed our guest as much as I did, you can check out her podcast, ‘What You're Craving' or pick up her book, ‘Breaking Up with Sugar'   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.     Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Molly:  @mollycarmel  

Dr. Ebony is back as the co-pilot today to help us navigate some new waters in the mental health space for me personally. We are joined by the incredible Erin, whose journey with mental health started as a teenager and came to a head when she was diagnosed with post-adoption depression. We discuss navigating mental health and mental illness in a religious household, especially as a Black person in America, the very real ‘middle child syndrome,' and the struggle of postpartum depression, whether you reared the child or adopted. We are so thankful she joined us and helped shine a light on these very real struggles that aren't always talked about…especially among Black women in America.   If you'd like to learn more about the resources Dr. Ebony suggested in today's episode, check them out below: ‘The Self Care Prescription Workbook' InsightTimer App ‘It Didn't Start with You'   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.     Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee Follow Dr. Ebony:  @drebonyonline

In today's episode, we are continuing the conversation surrounding fertility and mental health. Following the episode outlining my own journey to parenthood and the impact on my mental health, today, I am answering your questions about navigating mental health while struggling to become a parent. We touch on the anxiety of constant test results, dealing with jealousy of others' pregnancies, finding a new support system and more.   While I can only speak to my own journey and experiences, I hope something can help you on your journey or make you feel less alone.   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.     Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Me:  @sydelcurrylee

In today's pod, Minaa B is back as a co-host to help guide a heavy but extremely important conversation with our incredible guest, Taffie. Taffie has dealt with struggles with her mental health for much of her life but her struggles became unimaginable when she lost her daughter to suicide. In today's episode, Taffie joins Minaa and me to share her daughter's story, dealing with the grief of losing a loved one to suicide, and what we can do to break the stigma.   Please be advised that today's discussion does include the topic of suicide, suicidal thoughts, and suicidal ideation. If you or someone you know is in crisis or struggling with suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK [1-800-273-8255].   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.     Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Sydel:  @sydelcurrylee

In today's episode, I am joined by the Founder of The Pattern App, Lisa Donovan, for an illuminating conversation about using Astrology as a tool to navigate your mental health. We talk about how her own mental health struggles sparked her introduction to Astrology and how the practices she learned from it helped her forge her way out of turmoil. We discuss finding and living in our purpose and how she created The Pattern App as a tool for users to help understand their own purpose and navigate their mental health. Plus, she reads me (for filth).   Thanks again to Lisa Donovan for joining me today. You can follow her at @motherofpatterns or check out the Pattern App at https://thepattern.com/   For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.     Follow Because Life:  @becauselifewithsydel Follow Sydel:  @sydelcurrylee

In today's episode, Dr. Ebony is back in the co-hosting seat fresh off of Austin Black Pride. We catch up on the current happenings in our lives now that the world is finally opening up, pregnancy news, and the miracle of modern medicine. Then, we are joined by a pioneering modern man, Ricky, for a conversation we have been waiting to have on the podcast: opening the conversation surrounding mental health among men and boys. We discuss Ricky's  experience navigating his mental health struggles in a culture that sweeps it under the rug and how it lead to his work in the mental health space. We dive into how we can better teach emotional literacy in our youth, especially boys, and how the lack of mental health in our education system impacts the rest of our society. It's a eye-opening conversation about systematic and structural challenges with the role of mental health in our education system. We learned a lot and we hope you do too.    For more information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources    Because Life is a Dear Media Production in association with Scale Productions.

In today's episode, Sydel opens up about her long and taxing journey to parenthood and the mental health implications she faced along the way. She details her struggle to get pregnant naturally and the many, often taxing fertility treatments she and her husband explored to start their family together. Sydel opens up about her feelings of depression and hopelessness she fought facing consistent, bad news, navigating her mental health and relationship to her faith, and the importance of her support system. And finally, some hopeful news…   For information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources.   In association with Scale Productions   Produced by Dear Media.

In this week's episode,  Sydel is joined by friend and licensed therapist and healing advocate, Tasha Bailey. The two speak with guest, Mariam who shares her long journey with depression that started when she was a teenager. Mariam has overcome many extremely difficult challenges and situations including being hospitalized after a family member recognized signs of suicidal thoughts. Her story is one that many can relate to and empathize with and recognizes the importance of a strong support system and continuing to prioritize your mental health even after recovery.   For information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources.   In association with Scale Productions   Produced by Dear Media. 

In today's episode Sydel and licensed psychologist, Dr. Ebony Butler are joined by Lexie. Lexie's journey with mental health struggles came to a head in the wake of losing her mother suddenly and a betrayal by her father shortly thereafter. They discuss the power of naming your feelings, the struggle between your faith and the religion you were raised in, and dealing with multiple forms of grief at the same time.   For information on mental health, learning how to help a loved one, developing coping skills and more, visit the Mental Health Coalition's Resource Library at thementalhealthcoalition.org/resources.   In association with Scale Productions.  Produced by Dear Media. 

On this week's episode, Sydel is joined by friend and licensed therapist, Minaa B.! The two speak with Chantal from New York City, who has a story we can all likely relate to, especially over the last year. Chantal's anxiety and depression peaked once the pandemic hit, and she felt an overwhelming amount of stress and inadequacy. Being a teacher, she was used to interacting with her students on a daily basis face to face. That reality was turned upside down, and she was forced to navigate virtual teaching. During the conversation, the women discuss overcoming feeling unproductive and “not good enough,” living with a partner during the pandemic, and then making the shift once again to reentering the world as things started to open up. Enjoy the conversation!   Produced by Dear Media.

In today's episode Sydel is joined by friend and licensed therapist, Jordan Madison, and the two of them speak with special guest Jazmin Smith about her battle with mental health struggles after an unexpected divorce. The women discuss finding yourself and not feeling shame after a long-term relationship ends, strengthening your support system, accepting not having the closure you want, and finding the passion to move forward in life and relearning how to be “alone.”   Produced by Dear Media.    In association with Scale Productions.

On this exciting premiere episode of Because Life, Sydel shares her personal journey with her mental health and reasoning and importance behind wanting to start this podcast. Sydel dives into her religious upbringing and how she's learned to balance her faith and mental health. Additionally, she highlights a huge goal of this podcast, which is to de-stigmatize discussing mental health within the black community.   Produced by Dear Media.   In association with Scale Productions.    

Check out Because Life, hosted by Sydel Curry-Lee - coming to Dear Media on May 19th!    Produced by Dear Media.