I'll Go First® with Jessica Minhas

On the morning of September 27, 2006, at Platte Canyon High School in the small town of Bailey, Colorado, everything was going as usual. Taylor Fraser, then 15-years-old and a sophomore, went to school, passed her mother at the front desk, and walked to class just like every other morning before that day.  No one could ever have guessed that later that afternoon, 53-year-old Duane Roger Morrison would take seven female students hostage, kill one of them and then himself, and forever change the small town of Bailey, Colorado.  As we reflect on the tragic experiences in our lives, we often find that there is the version of us before something extraordinary happens and then the version of us after.   Taylor Fraser joins us on this episode to talk about how she's healing, her thoughts on gun laws, why it's essential we share our stories, and what inspired her to write and direct ‘Foreward,' - an audio drama podcast that chronicles one family's journey after surviving the tragedy of a school shooting. Goodies from this Episode:   Listen to Taylor's podcast, "Foreward”, an audio drama podcast that chronicles one family's story after the tragedy of a school shooting at https://www.forewardpodcast.com Support “Foreward” at https://www.forewardpodcast.com/support Connect with Taylor at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-leigh-fraser-44a83251 Looking for mental health resources and support? Check out our Help page at https://www.illgofirst.com/find-help   Listen to more episodes at https://www.illgofirst.com/stories  In crisis? Text "GO FIRST" to 741-741 to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free.  Have a suggestion? Don't be shy! We'd love to hear from you! Say "Hi" at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Abuse within faith communities is something we hear from our community about a lot. In particular, how abuse and sexual assault in faith communities complicate recovery because our spiritual life becomes tied to the most intimate and terrifying experience of our lives. Where can we find sanctuary following compounded abuse?This episode is a panel discussion on Abuse of Power: How the Church Can Respond. Joining us is: Annette Cutino, Director, LEAD.NYC Boz Tchividjian, Attorney & Founder of GRACE Diane Langberg, Ph.D., Psychologist and Author Drew Hyun, Founder, Hope Church NYC Jay Stringer, Psychotherapist, and Author Faith Huckel Motter, Co-Founder, Restore NYC We covered: Abuse of power in faith communities How abuse often hides in plain sight How to equip faith leaders to address their power and sexual story Practical steps faith communities can take to protect those they serve We hope you are encouraged by this conversation, and remember, you are not alone.Goodies from this Episode: Listen and share survivor stories - Believing victims of abuse is just the beginning. Here are more ways you can support and empower them:  Register for Restore NYC's Trafficking 101 webinar to learn what is trafficking and what isn'tBe accountable - We can't do this alone. Here are some community and legal resources:  Boz Tchividjian: Learn about GRACE's services and resources for your church community Drew Hyun: Join NYC Pastors Meetup by contacting Drew at drew@hopechurchnyc.org Annette Cutino: Connect with Annette for Executive and Team Coaching at www.annettecutino.com Jay Stringer: Learn about addressing sexual brokenness and find support resources at www.jaystringer.com  In crisis? Text "GO FIRST" to 741-741 to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free.  Have a suggestion? Don't be shy! We'd love to hear from you! Say "Hi" at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

In this episode, we are joined by one of our good friends and fellow entrepreneur, Nikki Innocent. Nikki is a 2-time TEDx speaker, certified women's leadership coach, diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI) strategist, and the host of "Checkbox Other".  Nikki shares with us how she's learned to trust herself enough to take the leap from her corporate career to becoming an entrepreneur.  We also talk about the challenges of growing up as a second-generation biracial kid in a home with alcoholism, embracing our other-ness, and learning how to forgive our loved ones, especially when we have to complicated relationships with them. She is so full of joy it is absolutely contagious, and we think you're really going to fall in love with her and her story.   Goodies from this Episode:  Unlock your full potential and build a life you love through Nikki's program “Unlock Your Passion” and online community. Learn more at www.nikkiinnocent.com Listen to Nikki's podcast, "Checkbox Other" at https://www.nikkiinnocent.com/podcast/ Follow Nikki's journey at https://www.instagram.com/nikkiinnocent/ Connect with Nikki at https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleinnocent/ Looking for mental health resources and support? Check out our Help page at https://www.illgofirst.com/find-help   Listen to more episodes at https://www.illgofirst.com/stories  In crisis? Text "GO FIRST" to 741-741 to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free.  Have a suggestion? Don't be shy! We'd love to hear from you! Say "Hi" at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

The first obstacle we have to overcome as a survivor is understanding what we're surviving. Jessica Dailey's earliest memories are with her father, but it wasn't until she was in middle school that she realized those memories were sexual abuse. In this episode, Jessica shares how she's healing from her abuse, how to break cycles of intergenerational trauma, and why sharing her story so that other survivors can heal is her life's purpose. What's remarkable about Jessica's story is how much she fought for justice to be served against her perpetrators, going to trial as a minor, not once but twice. This interview is powerful, candid and Jessica's bravery is contagious.Trigger warning: Please note we do cover the topic of sexual abuse. Be mindful of yourself and any little ears around you. For healing support and resources, check out our website. Goodies from this Episode:  Listen to Jessica's Podcast, "Diamond Mind Radio" at https://www.diamondmindradio.com/  Follow Jessica's journey at https://www.instagram.com/diamondmindradio/ Support Jessica's work at https://tradesofhope.com/order/P2764/?u=jessicadaily&event=P2764  Find support and healing resources at https://www.illgofirst.com/find-help   Listen to more episodes at https://www.illgofirst.com/stories  In crisis? Text "GO FIRST" to 741-741 to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free.  Have a suggestion? Don't be shy! We'd love to hear from you! Say "Hi" at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

By the time Chanel Dokun was in her mid-20s, she had reached nearly the top of her field, but, like most things, it wasn't without risk and grief. Chanel's parents were older when she was born and suffered from poor health in her teens. This made the priority of Chanel's childhood caring for her parents, so by the time college rolled around, she faced a tough decision. Stay and be the primary caregiver to her mom or move to California and pursue her dreams? With the insight that pursuing her calling would give her more capacity to care for others, she entrusted her mother's care to family members and relocated to Pepperdine University and eventually making her way to New York City, literally at the Top of the Rock.At the pinnacle of her young publishing career, another realization. The thing Chanel was pursuing was not the true expression of her true self. Again, she faced another tough decision. Leave her dream job, or what she thought it was, and take another leap of faith to give herself the gift of cultivating her unique calling? Chanel is now a certified Life Planner and Relationship Expert trained in Marriage and Family Therapy. This work is an expression of her journey and the invitation her mother impressed on her – you must find out what you love and do that thing to its fullest. Now she is devoted to supporting other women to clarify their life purpose through her speaking and coaching. In this episode, Chanel Dokun, a certified Life Planner and Relationship Expert trained in Marriage and Family Therapy, joins us. This work is an expression of her journey and the invitation her mother impressed on her – you must find out what you love and do that thing to its fullest. Now she is devoted to supporting other women to clarify their life purpose through her speaking and coaching. We talk about the difficulty of balancing family responsibilities and pursuing our dreams, how she realized what her authentic calling is and how we can too.  Goodies from this Episode:  Unlock your full potential and build a life you love through Chanel's Women of Consequence coaching program and online community. Learn more at www.chaneldokun.com  Listen to Chanel's podcast, "Clarifying Your Calling" at https://chaneldokun.com/podcast  Download Chanel's Free Resource, "How to Reclaim Your Morning" here: https://chaneldokun.com/reclaimthemorning  Follow Chanel's journey at https://www.instagram.com/chanel.dokun/ Looking for mental health resources and support? Check out our Help page at https://www.illgofirst.com/find-help   Listen to more episodes at https://www.illgofirst.com/stories  In crisis? Text "GO FIRST" to 741-741 to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free.  Have a suggestion? Don't be shy! We'd love to hear from you! Say "Hi" at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Welcome to I'll Go First Season 2! We are so happy you're here! To kick us off this season I'm finally sharing my personal story and how I'll Go First was born. My BFF AnnaLynne McCord is a big part of why this community is called “I'll Go First” so she interviewed me on this episode! (Real talk, I love celebrating other people's stories, but it was a stretch for me to be interviewed by someone else but I'll go first!)  We talk about how I'll Go First was born, my journey of overcoming childhood abuse, growing up with addiction, and what ‘going first' looks like for me. We also celebrate some I'll Go First milestones and reveal some new resources we developed for you! Goodies from this Episode:  Learn more about me at https://www.jessicaminhas.com  Follow my journey at https://instagram.com/jessicaminhas Looking for mental health resources and support? Check out our Help page at https://www.illgofirst.com/find-help   Listen to more episodes at https://www.illgofirst.com/stories  In crisis? Text "GO FIRST" to 741-741 to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free.  Have a suggestion? Don't be shy! We'd love to hear from you! Say "Hi" at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

In this episode, AnnaLynne McCord joins us. She is an actress, humanitarian, writer, director, and producer. You may recognize her from 90210, Nip/Tuck, and Power. Oh, and she happens to be my BFF. Our goal on this podcast is to normalize the conversation around topics often stigmatized and silenced in shame and help you take those little steps towards healing. Coping with abuse and PTSD looks different for everyone. For some of us, dissociation helps keep us sane under the worst conditions.In this conversation, Annalynne speaks bravely with courage and determination about her dissociation and splitting experience, how she's endured and is healing from childhood abuse and sexual assaults, and how she's using her story to help others out of their pain.Goodies from this Episode:  Join The Love Storm: https://thelovestorm.com/index.html Follow AnnaLynne's adventures at https://instagram.com/theannalynnemccord Looking for mental health resources and support? Check out our Help page at https://www.illgofirst.com/find-help  Listen to more episodes at https://www.illgofirst.com/stories. In crisis? Text "GO FIRST" to 741-741 to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free.  Have a suggestion? Don't be shy! We'd love to hear from you! Say "Hi" at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Megan Evans is a personal stylist, image consultant, wife, adventurer, and invisible illnesses champion. At the tender age of 24 years old and on her way up the ladder as a celebrity stylist in New York City, she was diagnosed with MS. Now, 16 years later, Megan shares how she came to grips with her diagnosis, how she's balancing pursuing her career and managing a chronic invisible illness, and what treatment looks like on her terms. She also gives us tips and tricks for finding our unique style during life's transitions.  Goodies from this Episode:  Work with Megan: https://www.meganevans.com Follow Megan's adventures: https://www.instagram.com/meganevans Looking for mental health resources and support? Check out our Help page at www.illgofirst.com/find-help Listen to more episodes at www.illgofirst.com/stories. In crisis? Text "GO FIRST" to 741-741 to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free.  Have a suggestion? Don't be shy! We'd love to hear from you! Say "Hi" at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

In honor of Domestic Violence Month, this episode is a recording of a panel I moderated on “Domestic violence in a time of COVID” with the nonprofit Reveal Beauty. We talked about the definition of domestic violence, how to know if you're in a situation of intimate partner violence, misconceptions, how to support a loved one who may be a victim of domestic violence, resources, and how to take care of ourselves while taking care of others. We are joined with Ileana Aguilar, Community Education Training Specialist, Safe Austin in Austin, Texas; Asa Scott, Associate Director of Clinical Services at the Bowery Missions, in New York City; and Anna Doan, Founder of Reveal Beauty. Goodies from this Episode: Get involved with Reveal Beauty: https://www.revealbeauty.org/ Get involved with the Bowery Mission: https://www.bowery.org/ Get involved with SAFE Austin: https://www.safeaustin.org/ Looking for mental health resources? Check out: www.illgofirst.com/find-help Listen to more episodes at www.illgofirst.com/storiesIn crisis? Text “GO FIRST” to 741-741 to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. Have a suggestion? Don't be shy! We'd love to hear from you! Say “Hi” at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Psychotherapist, poet, and writer Minaa B started her Instagram account as a way to share her poetry and musings. As someone who has overcome bullying, self-harm, suicidality, and depression, she wanted to help others heal too. That was before COVID. In the months following the global pandemic, Minaa's Instagram presence and community have exploded. The message is clear, people are hurting, and people are yearning for a safe community that says, "Me too."  In this episode, Minaa and I talk about coming from immigrant families and finding our identities, grieving the deaths of our parents, overcoming bullying, and healing from self-harm. Minaa shares how she has learned to be seen and how she is using her voice so that others may heal too.Goodies from this Episode: Connect with Minaa: https://www.instagram.com/minaa_b/ Read Minaa's book: Rivers Are Coming: A Collection of Essays And Poems On Healing From Depression and Trauma - https://www.minaab.com/riversarecomingLearn more about Minaa's work: https://www.minaab.com/ Mental health resources mentioned on the show: NAIMI: https://www.nami.org/helpMental Health Gov: https://www.mentalhealth.gov/Looking for mental health resources? Check out: www.illgofirst.com/find-helpListen to more episodes at: www.illgofirst.com/storiesIn crisis? Text “GO FIRST” to 741-741 to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. Have a suggestion? Don't be shy! We'd love to hear from you! Say “Hi” at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

When Ben Ayers was 20 years old, he took $300 and moved from Maine to a remote village in Nepal. He did not know the language but he knew he wanted to support the porters who carry trekker's climbing gear up and down Mt Everest. That was 23 years ago. Now, at 43, Ben is discovering the next evolution of his purpose, knowing himself. I met Ben when I was 20 years old. He is who inspired me to devote my career to human rights. He showed me that bringing our unique talents and giftings to the social issues we're passionate about can truly change the world. (It sounds cheesy but it's true.) In this episode, he teaches us what effective human rights work looks like, how knowing ourselves is the most important is the key to unlocking our purpose.Goodies from this Episode: Watch Ben's film “The Last Honey Hunter”: https://vimeo.com/201695311Learn more about Ben's work: https://www.jetbutterflies.com/Follow Ben's adventures: https://www.instagram.com/jetbutterflies/ Connect with Ben: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-ayers-2271701b3/ In crisis? Text “GO FIRST” to 741-741 to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. Have a suggestion? Don't be shy! We'd love to hear from you! Say “Hi” at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Listening to Reverend Vahisha Hasan one can't help but believe we can be more and do more. We know the conversation around race is fragile and charged. In this episode, Reverend Hasan helps us understand how to approach these conversations with grace and strength. She also shares how she found her faith and how faith is the core of social action and dismantling white supremacy. We laughed, we cried, and bonus: we learn how the Care Bears can inspire us to fight for freedom. Goodies from this Episode: Find out more about Transform Network at https://www.transformnetwork.org/vahisha-hasanBooks mentioned: “2019 Lenten Devotional for Dismantling White Supremacy”:https://www.transformnetwork.org/news/2019/2/7/why-i-hope-youll-read-this-2019-lent-devotional-for-dismantling-white-supremacy Reverend James Cone, “Black Theology Liberation”: https://www.amazon.com/Black-Theology-Liberation-James-Cone/dp/1570758956Connect with Reverend Hasan at https://www.linkedin.com/in/vahishahasanIn crisis? Text “GO FIRST” to 741-741 to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. Have a suggestion? Don't be shy! We'd love to hear from you! Say “Hi” at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Cynthia Hellen is the definition of a boss. She's a serial social entrepreneur. She's inspirational, ambitious, and stunning. She's easy to love. On her way to building a future, her fiancé, Ryan, found out he had advanced liver disease. Ryan fought for over 18 months to overcome his diagnosis but it wasn't enough. At the young age of 30, he passed away. Cynthia speaks candidly about her journey as the daughter of immigrant parents who fled from Peru to America as asylum seekers, being a young caretaker, losing the love of her life, and how she's learning to celebrate Ryan's life and legacy. Goodies from this episode: Connect with Cynthia:  www.cynthiahellen.com Learn more about Oh Hello Liver: https://www.ohhelloliver.org/Learn more about SMPLCT Lab: https://www.smplctlab.org/Learn more about the Winning Women Series: https://www.winningwomenseries.com/Check out more I'll Go First episodes at: https://www.illgofirst.com/podcastFind support: https://www.illgofirst.com/find-helpIn crisis? Text GOFIRST to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. Have a suggestion? Don't be shy! We would love to hear from you. Say 'Hi' at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

We have all struggled to answer the questions, “Who am I?” and “What do I want?” Those ‘simple' questions can feel overwhelming, especially if you come from a culture or home where asking those questions was against the rules. Imani Movva is a psychotherapist and executive and business coach. She joins us in this episode to talk about how she forged her identity independent of harmful social and cultural norms, how to create safety in your life, career, and friendships and how to answer the big question, “Now what?” amid COVID and BLM. Goodies from this episode: Connect with Imani:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/imani-movva-71792096/Check out more I'll Go First episodes at: https://www.illgofirst.com/podcastIn crisis? Text GOFIRST to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. Have a suggestion? Don't be shy! We would love to hear from you. Say 'Hi' at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Do you know what makes you happy? Have you ever felt overwhelmed choosing where to eat dinner with friends? What do you want to do with your life? All of these questions have one thing in common - decision making. Little choices like where to eat and big ones like, what makes you happy can be stressful. If this has ever been you, we have good news. You can develop this skill set and create a strategy that's unique to you.  In this week's episode Sharon Weinberg, Executive Leadership and Business Strategy Coach teaches us how to challenge our assumptions, the motives, and the drives that are getting in the way of our clarity. She helps us build our decision strategy processes, and create our menu of happiness. Goodies from this episode: Connect with Sharon: https://sharonweinberg.com/In crisis? Text GOFIRST to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. Have a suggestion? Don't be shy! We would love to hear from you. Say 'Hi' at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Erine Gray, Founder of Aunt Bertha, was 17-years-old when his mom suffered an acute neurological illness that left her requiring around the clock care. Ten years later, just as Erine was starting his career, he took on full legal guardianship of her. Rather than being resentful of these new responsibilities, Erine found his purpose; to bring dignity to those receiving social service care. Erine shares with us how he's made meaning of his story, how he found his purpose (and why he loves his job so much), and how he's learned to put words to his experiences.Goodies from this episode: Watch Erine's TED Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nusGQs-qXBYAunt Bertha makes it easy to find out which either charitable or government programs are in your area. Simply, type in your zip code and we will tell you exactly what programs are in your area, which programs you qualify for, and what steps to take next. Learn more: https://www.auntbertha.com/Have a nonprofit or social service organization that should join the Aunt Bertha network? Suggest here: https://findhelp.org/find_a_programFind COVID specific support in your community: https://findhelp.org/Connect with Erine: https://www.linkedin.com/in/basicgray/In crisis? Text GOFIRST to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. Have a suggestion for us? Don't be shy! We'd love to hear from you. Say 'Hi' at hello@illgofirst.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Dr. Colleen Batchelder is an outspoken advocate against racism and discrimination in the American Church. Her dissertation, “Exvangelical: Why Millennials and Generation Z are Leaving the Constraints of White Evangelicalism” not only raised eyebrows but elicited hate mail from her seminary and community. In this episode we talk about how to cultivate your own faith practices, keeping our identity intact in the face of adversity, social justice in the American church, and standing up for each other's rights. She is seen by many of her conservative counterparts as scandalous, but to others, she may just be the beacon of light we've been looking for.Get involved with LOUD Summit: https://www.loudsummit.com/Follow Dr. Batchelder on Twitter: https://twitter.com/colleen_batchRead Dr. Batchelder's research, "Exvangelical: Why Millennials and Generation Z are Leaving the Constraints of White Evangelicalism" at: https://digitalcommons.georgefox.edu/dmin/370/Connect with Dr. Batchelder on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleenbatchelder/In crisis? Text GOFIRST to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. Have a suggestion? Don't be shy! We'd love to hear from you. Say 'Hi' at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Obbie West is a 20 veteran of the United States Army, an outspoken sexual violence prevention advocate, an International Spoken Word Artist, and author of a book of poems entitled, “Blossom”. Obbie grew up in a home witnessing his mother endure domestic violence. In this episode, he shares with us how he became who he is today, how he's learned to define what love means to him, and how we can decide how we want to be loved. Connect with Obbie: https://www.obbiewest.com/contactLearn about Obbie's advocacy work:  https://www.spokenadvocacy.com/aboutWatch his spoken word poem “The Perpataror's Perspective” : https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAs55SKwAdDzpvMQAaNLHqQ/video Get involved with SHARP (Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention) Education: https://www.preventsexualassault.army.mil/In crisis? Text GOFIRST to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. Have a suggestion? We would love to hear from you! Say ‘Hi' at hello@illgofirst.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Merci McKinley is a Veteran Advocate, Military Sexual Trauma, and Dometic Violence Survivor, author, and poet. She speaks candidly about her experience of military sexual assault and domestic violence, fighting for justice against her perpetrators, advocating for justice reform, and what healing has looked like for her. She is a powerful voice for those of us who are working through what we've come through. Merci is a true testament of what it means to be a survivor and teaches us how to live life moving forward. Goodies from this episode:Checkout Merci's books: https://www.amazon.com/Merci-McKinley/e/B01M19LVHU%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share Watch Merci testify on the US Senate Committee on CSpan: https://www.c-span.org/person/?mercimckinleyRead Merci's letter to survivors of sexual assault: https://www.servicewomen.org/swan-updates/open-letter-to-mst-survivors-youve-done-nothing-wrong-and-you-have-nothing-to-be-ashamed-of/In crisis? Text "GOFIRST" to speak with a trained crisis counselor for free 24/7. Have a comment? Don't be shy! We'd love to hear from you. Say "Hello" at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Kevin Adler, Founder and CEO of Miracle Messages, a nonprofit reunion service that reconnects people experiencing homelessness with their loved ones. In this episode, he shares the lessons he's learned from helping over 300 people reconnect with their loved ones, often for the first time in 20 years. He offers step-by-step insights on where to start and what reconciliation looks like in our lives and the lives of our homeless neighbors.Goodies from this episode:Learn about Miracle Messages: https://www.miraclemessages.org/Volunteer as a Digital Detective or Miracle Friend: https://www.miraclemessages.org/getinvolvedConnect with Kevin: http://www.kevinfadler.com/In crisis? Text GOFIRST to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. Have a comment? Don't be shy! We'd love to hear from you. Say "Hello" at hello@illgofirst.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Tiffany Yu, Founder of Diversability, was only 9 years old when she was involved in a deadly accident that claimed her father's life and left her partially paralyzed. In this episode, she shares how she's worked through past shames, brought silence and judgment out of the shadows, learned how to forgive herself and what it means to be proud of who we are.Goodies from this episode: Learn more about Diversability: http://www.mydiversability.com/Watch Dr. Nadine Burke's TED Talk on ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) here: https://www.ted.com/speakers/nadine_burke_harris_1Keep up with Tiffany at: https://www.tiffanyyu.com/Follow Tiffany's journey at: https://www.instagram.com/imtiffanyyu/In crisis? Text “GO FIRST” to 741-741 to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. Have a suggestion? Don't be shy! We'd love to hear from you! Say “Hi” at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Chris Anderson is a childhood sexual abuse survivor. His story is all too common but not talked about enough. When people think of sexual trauma, they often don't associate it with males, and yet statistics show that around half of all childhood sexual abuse survivors are boys. Chris courageously shares his journey of healing, what grooming and manipulation look like, and how he's learned to love bravely.  Goodies from this Episode: Find resources for healing at: https://malesurvivor.org/Connect with Chris at: www.christophermanderson.com In crisis? Text “GO FIRST” to 741-741 to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. Have a suggestion? Don't be shy! We'd love to hear from you! Say “Hi” at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Spiritual trauma can cut us to our core. In this episode, Tara-Leigh Cobble joins us. You may recognize her as the Founder and President of D Group, an international faith-based community, and "The Bible Recap Podcast" (20 million downloads and counting!) She shares with us how she's recovered from spiritual trauma, grief, and multiple heart surgeries as a young adult. She also shares with us how asking for help in her own life birthed one of the largest discipleship groups in the world and how dreaming this little dream for herself came true beyond her wildest imagination. Goodies from this episode: Find a D Group or start your own at: https://www.mydgroup.org/Listen to the Bible Recap: http://www.thebiblerecap.com/Listen to the Bible Kneecap: http://www.thebiblerecap.com/kneecapKeep up with Tara Leigh at: https://www.taraleighcobble.com/ In crisis? Text GOFIRST to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. Have a suggestion? Don't be shy! Say hi at hello@illgofirst.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Rasheeda Winfield is a producer and casting director. At 25, she accomplished what most people can only dream of, working at NBC Universal, 30 Rock (Yup, that one.) In this episode, she shows us how she made her dreams come true, how discovering what success actually is surprised her, and how she gave herself permission to let her dreams evolve as she grew into the woman she is today. She also offers tangible tips for ‘making it' in TV and how figuring out who you really are makes you the most successful you can be.Goodies from this episode: Follow Rasheeda's work: https://www.rasheedatv.com/Follow Rasheeda on social media: https://www.instagram.com/rasheedawinfield/Connect with Rasheeda: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rasheedawinfield/In crisis? Text GOFIRST to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. Have a suggestion? We'd love to hear from you!  Say "Hello" at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Jordan Wexler is a serial entrepreneur. He sold his first company at 24-years-old, became the COO of Agility.io at 28, and is just launched his second company, Early Bird, all before the age of 30. It sounds like a true American success story, young, accomplished, well-traveled. Just around the corner, however, and within two years, his dad suddenly died and his mother suffered a life-altering stroke that placed her 24/7 care. Nevertheless, somehow Jordan's joy is boundless. He's the kind of person you admire not just for his professional accomplishments, though those are impressive on their own, but also for his enthusiasm for life and his ability to see the gifts we may not be able to see in ourselves. Goodies from the EpisodeFollow Jordan's work at Early Bird:https://www.getearlybird.ioGet involved with Recovery for Entrepreneurship: https://www.rtecenter.comConnect with Jordan:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-wexler/Need to speak with someone? Text GOFIRST to 741-741 to speak with a trained crisis counselor for free anytime, anywhere. Have something to say? Don't be shy! Say hi at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Nicky Yates' story seems like it's straight out of a fiction novel and yet it's true. As a professional, Nicky is a forensic traumatologist and researcher on the nature of healing from trauma and domestic violence. She is a humanitarian and uses her expertise to lift communities out of poverty in low-income countries throughout the world (26 countries and counting.) But landing where she is today is nothing short of a miracle. As a child, she experienced poverty, childhood abuse, and homelessness. As an adolescent, she learned how to care for family members with serious mental illnesses. Now as an adult, Nicky walks us through how she's gotten to where she is, actionable tips for how to overcome the impossible, how to build safe boundaries with family, and embracing self-care and love in the midst of it all. Goodies from this episode:Books: The Normal One: Life with a Difficult or Damaged Sibling: https://www.amazon.com/Normal-One-Difficult-Damaged-Sibling/dp/0385337566 Healing Developmental Trauma:https://www.amazon.com/Healing-Developmental-Trauma-Self-Regulation-Relationship/dp/1583944893Finding therapy:https://zencare.co/Resouces on trauma: Info on Tetris for PTSD: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5678449/Power of language on mental health: https://www.thekimfoundation.org/blog/the-power-of-language/Learn about Nicky's work: https://www.theadventureproject.org/Connect with Nicky:https://www.linkedin.com/in/yatesnicky/In crisis? Text: GOFIRST to 741-741 to speak with a trained counselor anytime anywhere for free. P.S. Have an idea for us? Don't be shy. We want to hear from you! Send us a note at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Ivelyse Andino is an Afro-Latina health equity innovator born and raised in The Bronx. She is the founder and CEO of Radical Health and a Commissioner on the New York City Commission on Gender Equity. Ivelyse enjoyed a fledgling career in health tech, pioneering some of its first digital health solutions, including bringing the first mobile app prescribing platform to market and working with global clients such as National Health Service (NHS London) and Kaiser Permanente. While she routinely trained oncologists on new drugs, she found herself unprepared when her mother was diagnosed with cancer. This forced her to directly and intimately confront the systemic healthcare disparities she knew that existed. In founding Radical Health — the first Latina-owned and operated Benefit Corp in NYC — she has sought to combine her expertise in healthcare and her passion as a community organizer. Coming from a historically marginalized community herself, it was important for Ivelyse to initially build Radical Health by bringing together her neighbors around her kitchen table and hearing first-hand from voices — including the undocumented, women of color, elderly, young people, and LGBTQ — who are otherwise (figuratively and) literally never given a seat at the table to have a say in their own healthcare destiny. Through Radical Health, Ivelyse is committed to the task of transforming healthcare by facilitating health literacy and self-advocacy, as well as forging a relationship between meaningful face-to-face conversations with cutting-edge technology.Goodies from this episode: Learn more about Radical Health: www.radical-health.comConnect with Iveylse Andino: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivelyse/In crisis? Text GOFIRST to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. Have an idea for us? Don't be shy. We want to hear from you! Send us a note at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Aaron Rodwin, LMSW, is a researcher on the use of hip hop and music to support empowerment and mental health. In this episode, he shares his journey of how his love for hip hop music started his career in mental health. Aaron walks us through his research on the use of hip hop and music to support mental health, explains the different types of trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), debunks some of the common misconceptions about schizophrenia, and emphasizes culturally responsive approaches to healing we can all participate in. Finally, he shares with us how to support the men in our lives who may be facing mental health challenges. His message is simple, you can be young, you can look different, you can still impact your community. Follow your passions and apply them to the thing you love.In crisis? Text GOFIRST to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free.  P.S. Have an idea for us? Don't be shy. We want to hear from you! Send us a note at hello@illgofirst.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Jennifer Haron, child sexual abuse and incest survivor advocate, shares her personal story of escaping a house full of terror and sorrow. She walks us through what healing has looked like for her as an adult. Jennifer also shows us how she has overcome painful narratives and how she has cultivated radical self-care.  We talk about how self-advocate for yourself and advocate for others who might be going through something similar. Jennifer is a force of nature and we hope you know that you are not alone in your experience and shame.In high school, Jennifer Haron's life seemed promising. Great friends, gorgeous and third in her class. To everyone else, Jennifer's life looked positive and hopeful. But then everything changed. Abruptly, she dropped out of high school, ran away from home and left town. “Home” is a loose term, however. “Home” was filled with covert and overt emotional and physical incest. Jennifer's story is hard to listen to. It's uncomfortable, it's awkward, it's painful. It can make us feel helpless. But Jennifer also shows us the power of the human spirit. That deep within all of us lies the truth that our lives are valuable, and that each and every one of us, no matter what we've been through, and no matter where we are from, we can heal. We can survive. More than that, we can thrive. We want you to know that you are not alone in your story and your shame. There are people who have overcome and are healing. Here is one of them. Be encouraged. Healing is possible for everyone. Follow Jennifer's story: https://www.instagram.com/jen_haron/Support from this episode: RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): is the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization.https://www.rainn.org/National Sexual Assault Hotline. Free. Confidential. 24/7. Call: 800.656.HOPE (4673) MaleSurvivor: MaleSurvivor is committed to preventing, healing, and eliminating all forms of sexual victimization of boys and men through support, treatment, research, education, advocacy, and activism.https://malesurvivor.org/In crisis? Text GOFIRST to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. https://www.crisistextline.org/P.S. Have an idea for us? Don't be shy. We want to hear from you! Send us a note at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Raleigh Sadler, president and founder of Let My People Go, makes the case that anyone can fight human trafficking by focusing on those who are most often targeted. In this episode, we discuss our role in the problem of human trafficking, but more importantly, our role in the solution.Goodies from this Episode: Learn more about Let My People Go: https://www.lmpgnetwork.org/Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking:https://www.amazon.com/Vulnerable-Rethinking-Trafficking-Raleigh-Sadler/dp/1535917970Connect with Raleigh: http://raleighsadler.com/P.S. Have an idea for us? Don't be shy. We want to hear from you! Send us a note at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

For many of us, our early 20s are a time to find ourselves and figure out where we fit in this world. But Jennifer and Kevin Saunders didn't have that chance. At age 23 years old, Jennifer gave birth to her first son, Isaiah, at 23 weeks - four months preterm. This meant she and her husband, Kevin, Founder of KS4Inspiration, spent the first three years of their son's life living at the hospital. Literally. Nine years later, Jennifer and Kevin share their journey through overwhelm, anxiety, depression, and compassion fatigue. They are candid and open about how they made their marriage work despite the demands of raising a child with cerebral palsy and ultimately how they found their noble goals in the midst of all it. Jennifer also shares available resources for parents and loved ones that have helped them raise their special needs child and why going to therapy was the right choice for her and her family. Goodies from this episode: Keep up with Jennifer and Kevin's organization, KS4Inspiration: https://www.ks4inspiration.com/Watch Kevin's spoken word poem, "The Design": https://youtu.be/MNWin2IbnBU Connect with Kevin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-saunders1Need support now? Text GOFIRST to 741741 to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. Have a suggestion? Don't be shy! Say "Hi" at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Matthew Zachary, Founder of Stupid Cancer, and Off Scrip Media, was only 21-years old when he was diagnosed with a rare brain cancer. Matthew walks us through his journey of how his life changed after his diagnosis, how he started the largest young adult cancer organization, Stupid Cancer, and how having no control over our lives gives us the perspective we need to find peace. Goodies from this episode: Listen to Matt's podcast, "Out of Patients": https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/feed/id1482032829Check out Matt's podcast network, Off Scrip Media: https://offscrip.com/page/Connect with Matt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewzacharyHave a suggestion? Don't be shy! Say "Hi" at hello@illgofirst.comNeed support now? Text GOFIRST to 741741 to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

In this episode, Michelle Ross, Founder of One Worry Less, speaks honestly and candidly about her experience of surviving childhood sexual abuse. She shares how she's found healing, made meaning of her story and how we can see the signs and keep our children safe. This is a hard conversation so please be advised, while we don't go into detail, we speak frankly about the impact of childhood sexual abuse in our lives. Check-in with yourself and please be considerate of those who may be listening around you. Goodies from this episode: Support for survivors of child sexual abuse: https://www.rainn.org/articles/adult-survivors-child-sexual-abuseNeed support now? Text GOFIRST to 741741 to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. Have a suggestion? Don't be shy! We'd love to hear from you. Say "Hello" at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Depression can be overwhelming, and all-consuming. But it's not the end of our stories. J Caleb Perkins, Founder of the Remedy Network, sits down with us to discuss his journey from college graduation, through depression to ultimately finding his purpose in criminal justice reform. After learning about Kalief Browder's story Perkins realized how powerful our voices are - both for our own stories - and changing the lives of others. Learn how he overcame depression, boldly stepped into his calling, and how you can cultivate your purpose too.Goodies from this episode: Connect with J Caleb Perkins here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-caleb-perkins-aa557b53/Follow J Caleb Perkins here: https://www.instagram.com/jcaleb/Purchase J Caleb Perkin's book,  Remedy Network: A Millennial's Journey on Connecting New York City Through Stories, here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1984030914/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0Learn about and support Remedy Network here: http://www.remedynetwork.com/Listen to more I'll Go First podcast episodes at: https://www.illgofirst.com/podcastP.S. Have an idea for us? Don't be shy. We want to hear from you! Send us a note at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

How do we care for ourselves while caring for others? Ruth Reader is a journalist for Fast Company and a NY Times published author. She grew up in a household of addiction and alcoholism. As soon as Ruth began her career, the unexpected happened. Her mother was dying from cancer. She takes us on her journey of caring for her abusive mother in her final days and how she learned to love herself in spite of tragedy.  Goodies from this episode: Read Ruth's work at www.ruthreader.comFollow Ruth on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ruthreaderConnect with Ruth at: www.linkedin.com/in/ruthreaderListen to more I'll Go First podcast episodes at www.illgofirst.com/podcastP.S. Have an idea for us? Don't be shy. We want to hear from you! Send us a note at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Think back to the moment that changed everything for you. What was it like? And what happened after? Kyle Mengelkamp is a brain aneurysm survivor. He's also the Founder of the Brain Bar and Share Your Stroke of Genius. On this episode, he joins us to talk about how his stroke gave him a new life and how you can find your moment of triumph.Goodies mentioned in this episode: Find Share Your Stroke of Genius online: https://www.shareyourstrokeofgenius.org/Share Your Stroke of Genius on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shareyourstrokeofgeniusAttend The Brain Bar: https://www.instagram.com/The_Brain_BarFind Kyle Mengelkamp on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylemengelkamp In crisis? Text GOFIRST to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. P.S. Have an idea for us? Don't be shy. We want to hear from you! Send us a note at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Who would shut down your online dating profile if you died today? After losing her father to cancer when she was nine, Liz cultivated a unique ability to talk about taboo topics with ease. Founder of Lantern, an end-of-life planning tool, Liz shares with us how to heal from loss and plan for death. Books mentioned in this episode: When Breath Becomes Air by Paul KalanithiDavid and Goliath by Malcolm GladwellConnect with Liz at:https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-eddy-6664ba27Learn more about Lantern at:https://www.lantern.cohttps://www.instagram.com/followlantern/Learn more about I'll Go First at https://www.illgofirst.com/podcastIn crisis? Text GOFIRST to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. Have a suggestion? Don't be shy! Say "Hi" at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Hip Hop Therapy? Yup, it's a real thing! In this episode, clinical psychologist, Elliot Gann, Psy.D joins us. He the Founder of Today's Future Sound which provides beat-making trauma therapy. We talk about how hip hop therapy works, what led him into the field of psychology and what the future holds for alternative modalities for trauma care.Connect with Dr. Gann at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliot-gann-psy-d-17463030/You can learn more about Dr. Gann's work atToday's Future Soun: https://todaysfuturesound.org/Learn more about I'll Go First at https://www.illgofirst.com/podcastIn crisis? Text GOFIRST to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7 for free. Have a suggestion? Don't be shy. Say hi at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Amanda Burrill was told she was suffering from depression and anxiety for over a decade. What she was really suffering from was a misdiagnosis. In this episode, Amanda, a veteran Navy officer, and professional endurance athlete, teaches us the importance of fighting for your right to live a healthy life. We discuss what to do when we are told our symptoms and experiences aren't real, how to get the help you need and deserve, and how Amanda's perspective on what success looks like has changed following her injuries. Goodies from this episode:Connect with Amanda at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandaburrill/ Follow Amanda's adventures at: https://www.instagram.com/amandaunchartedLearn more about I'll Go First at https://www.illgofirst.com/podcastHave a suggestion? Don't be shy. Say "Hi" at hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Welcome to I'll Go First! We are so excited to have Derrick Reyes joining us for our very first episode! They are the Founder of Queerly Health, a New York City-based digital health startup on a mission to democratize access to LGBTQ health and wellness care. Today's conversation is vulnerable and inspiring. Derrick shares what finding their identity as a non-gender-confirming person has looked like and how they have learned to carry themselves with confidence. Derrick shares what motivated them to start Queerly Health and how to have important conversations on delicate subjects with the loved ones in your lives. Goodies from this episode: You can learn more about Derrick's work: https://www.queerly.health/aboutFind support: https://www.thetrevorproject.org In crisis? Text GOFIRST to 741741 to speak with a trained crisis counselor for free 24/7.Have an idea for an episode? Someone we should interview? Something we should be talking about? Say hi! hello@illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Introducing the I'll Go First Podcast with Jessica Minhas. In this podcast, we talk about all things mental health, hope, healing, and freedom. We introduce you to inspiring guests who teach us how they've gone first in their journeys of healing and finding their purpose. We cannot wait to join you on your path. Say hi at http://www.illgofirst.com★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★