The Heart of the Matter

For episode 61 of THOTM, we discuss the sentencing of former police officer Derek Chauvin, teaching critical race theory in public schools, and the benefits of rest and self-care.

Thanks for joining us for THOTM episode #60. Michael and Jermaine discuss gun control, managing work stress, and the current phase of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Michael and Jermaine honor Mental Health Awareness Month by answering questions such as: How is therapy helpful? What is most rewarding about being a therapist? Why it's important that therapists attend to their own mental health?  

For episode 58, we talked to Jamilah Stanfield, creator of blackmilitarywives.com and author of “When Daddy's Gone”. Jamilah talked about the unique challenges faced by black women married to service members, raising her 3 daughters, her background as a mental health professional, and the people and experiences that have influenced her life. Jamilah is a real life superhero...someone who sees a need, takes action and steps up for others. We hope you enjoy our conversation.

Our guest on this episode of THOTM is Luisa Ortega. Luisa is a mother, counselor and doctoral student in Organizational Change and Leadership at USC. She is a passionate activist for Indigenous communities and fierce advocate for decolonialism . We talked about parenting in the current social climate, working with at-risk teen girls, spirituality and decolonizing education. It's rare to meet someone as brilliant and sincere, so enjoy this conversation with Luisa Ortega!

We had the pleasure of talking with Ernie McCray, a man who has worn many hats and is loved and admired by many. He's a former college basketball star, an educator for over 3 decades, writer, poet, actor and even dabbled in stand-up comedy. At 82 years old, Ernie McCray is one of the coolest and most inspiring people you'll ever meet. Ernie described his upbringing and influences in Tucson Arizona, experiences with racism, and becoming college basketball star. He talked about his long career as a teacher/principal, and passion for helping children from marginalized communities. Ernie also shared his personal stories and wisdom about relationships, love and loss. We're appreciative that he gave us his time...hope you enjoy this conversation!

Ansley Curtis is a licensed marriage and family therapist, who specializes in working with children, adolescents and families, and in the treatment of trauma. Ansley talked about her inspiration for becoming therapist, her approach to working with children who've experienced trauma, and the importance of relationships in healing from trauma.

Alex Amar Kannan is an attorney and independent filmmaker. He operates a practice (Kannan Law Firm, Inc.) in Spring Valley, Ca that focuses on immigration, criminal and personal injury cases. However, we talked more about his passion for making documentaries and his advocacy for immigrant and transgender communities. Alex also shared his approach to personal wellness and managing job stress. For more info on Kannan Law Firm, Inc., visit the website: https://san-diego-abogado.com

For episode 53, we chat with Ashton Szabo, an authentic tantric yoga teacher and educator.  We discuss the many applications of yoga for the healing journey.  We explore topics such as the embodiment of our experience, transcendence, and connection.  Join us as we discover how yoga can be used to bring us back to the body to get connected with ourselves and life. Connect with Ashton http://yogawithashton.com/  

For episode 52, we have returning guests, licensed psychologist, Dr. Ricky Pope and mental health counselor, Nathan Klein. We have an in-depth discussion about grief, how men deal with loss, and mental health awareness in hip-hop. Enjoy!

On episode 51, we are joined by Michael Love and Nathan Klein. Michael is a counselor at Irvine City College. Nathan is a counselor at San Diego City College and a private practice clinician. We discussed the need for more men and particularly black men in the helping professions, their experiences being black male counselors, and the value that men bring to the counseling and mental profession.

On our 50th episode, we were joined by Seth Johnson to talk about estrangement and her organization Together Estranged.  She shared about her story and difficult life events which resulted in her own personal experience of estrangement.  She created Together Estranged to provide support and services to adults who have become estranged from their families.  We talk about mental health, healing, and various circumstances related to estrangement. Connect with them: https://www.TogetherEstranged.org/ https://www.facebook.com/togetherestranged/  

Dr. Ricky Pope is a psychologist at San Diego State University's Counseling & Psychological Services. Dr. Pope is an engaging speaker, with a calming voice, and joined THOTM to share his journey from dropping out of high school to becoming a psychologist. He describes his early struggles in school, navigating higher education as an African American male, the positive impact of mentors, and his inspiration for wanting to help and heal others. 

In this episode, we speak with returning guest LMFT Tracy Gilmour-Nimoy.  We discuss her pregnancy and infant loss, her grieving and healing process, and how that is shaping her therapeutic work.  We also discuss Women's health and other topics that are sure to move you emotionally as we explore these tough topics that impact so many people.   Books and resources mentioned in this episode:   Connect with Tracy at her website.   Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb (every therapist should read this!)   It's OK That You're Not OK by Megan Devine    Alexandra Sacks M.D., reproductive psychiatrist   Additional resources: Postpartum Support International  https://www.postpartum.net/ Postpartum Health Alliance (local resource) https://postpartumhealthalliance.org/ Share Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support http://nationalshare.org/ Empty Cradle: Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support, Education, & Remembrance  https://www.emptycradle.org Postpartum Dads http://www.postpartumdads.org/ Postpartum Men http://postpartummen.com/

For episode 47, we “rewind and relax” with some fun and introspective questions...also reflect on current events.

This August marked the 15 year anniversary since Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast, leaving New Orleans in devastation. For episode 46, we talked with Willie Harris, who survived hurricane Katrina after 6 days of fighting for his life after the storm hit. He describes how he survived the elements, dealing with racism and trauma, rebuilding his life, and how this experience has shaped his perspective on our current social climate. 

In this episode we speak with Merceds Tiggs and Otesha Bremond about the intersection of cooking and mental health.  We explore their business model of integrating therapy and healing through food and cooking.  We talk about mindful cooking, and eating, as well as other practices relating to how we connect with our food, the process of preparation, and how that contributes to our mental health.   Visit Eight 16 website Connect with Eight 16 on Facebook Watch the episode in video  

Lisa McJunkin is a licensed marriage and family therapist who specializes in working with trauma. She's also an adjunct professor at Point Loma Nazarene University and co-founder of Enlightened Vibrations, where she provides therapeutic services. Lisa explains the various ways that traumatic stress impacts individuals, in a way that's concise and understandable. She also describes her holistic approach to healing trauma, integrating both eastern and western healing practices, that attend to the mind, body and spirit. To learn more about Lisa's work and therapeutic services provided at Enlightened Vibrations, visit their website: http://www.enlightenedvibrations.com/ To learn more about PTSD read 101 of Understanding Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) & Trauma Recovery Options visit the link below: https://9c5f6530-0750-4be0-a3db-7d86a386f552.filesusr.com/ugd/3a8459_c9d3fa8fbcde4f30ac734af57fe6ceb4.pdf Here is the video for the episode if you prefer to watch:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xttDXw4R4bI&feature=youtu.be

Dr. Mitch Hamilton is a business marketing professor at Loyola Marymount University and founder/CEO of Rethink Creative Agency.  He talks about finding his niche in marketing, how companies can effectively engage in social change, working on projects with Nipsey Hussle and Snoop Dogg, and balancing work and family during this social climate. Rethink Creative Agency Episode #43 YouTube companion video

On this episode of THOTM, Jermaine Simpson and Michael Ceccon are joined by Laila Aziz...a community activist, law student and parent of twin boys. This conversation is about having “the talk” with our children. However, this is not the “where do babies come from?” talk. Instead, it's the unfortunately talk that many black parents have with their sons about what to do when stopped by police. We also discuss mental health in Black communities and balancing community activism with parenting, career, and personal wellness.

Chrissy Hunter is a licensed professional clinical counselor in Beaumont, Texas. She is also a return guest to THOTM (episode 7). Chrissy joined us for a discussion on white privilege, answering questions such as “what does it mean?”, “why does it matter?” and “what to do about it?”

Khalid Alexander is an English professor at San Diego City College, activist and co-founder of Pillars of the Community in Southeast San Diego. Khalid talks about racist policing of Black communities, the murder of George Floyd, local protests, and “defunding the police”. He is a return guest to THOTM, so check out episode #14 Post Election Reflections      Check out this article on the topic of police training and abuse of power: Confessions of a Former Bastard Cop

On episode #39, our guests are Dr. Ngonzi Truth Chrushshon and Dr. Mychal Odom. Dr. Truth is a PhD candidate in clinical psychology, with a private practice in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Odom, is a history and black studies professor for the San Diego Community College District and a community activists. We discussed police violence against black people, mental health implications, and ways to take action.   Resources: Tapping Technique to Neutralize Trauna  https://www.healthline.com/health/eft-tapping#treatment   Finding a therapist: http://www.faithhopelovecommunity.com/mental-health-resources-2/ A dialogue on Retraumatization in the Black Community Tuesday, June 2, 2020 11:00am - 1:00pm PDT   https://retraumatizationandresilienceintheblackcommunity.eventbrite.com     Dangerous Images to Avoid https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/dangerous-images-avoid-joseph-smedley-ph-d-lmhc   Check out our companion Zoom video for this episode on YouTube from which the episode audio is pulled. https://youtu.be/d0vVDcyCQDc

Episode 38 is a continuation of our last conversation, which we addressed self-care and social distancing. This week we touch on the COVID-19 impact on mental health, parenting, and creating new habits for maintaining wellness.

Self-care has become one of those pop culture terms that's used so often and loosely, that it can easily lose it's value.   So...what is self care? Why is it important? How do we apply it while in self-quarantine?   For episode #37, we provide meaning and context to the term and talk about our own ways of maintaining our wellness.

Welcome back to THOTM! This is our recording since taking a two month hiatus. In this episode, Michael describes the near death experience that put life and the podcast on pause. We also share our reactions to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In honor of the MLK holiday, THOTM is highlighting Dr. Kyra Greene, Executive Director of the Center on Policy Initiatives. She was selected as a civil rights speaker for the San Diego Women's March 2020. THOTM has been documenting the organizing of SDWM, and had the honor of talking with Dr. Greene in the weeks leading up to the march. In this interview, she talks about her deep roots in activism, workers rights,  and the role of Black women in civil rights for everyone.

 Gabrielle Gosselin is a counselor, instructor, and program coordinator of the CalWORKS program at Grossmont Community College in San Diego. Gabrielle talked with us about her unique upbringing, which inspired her sense of cultural awareness and passion for social justice.  She also spoke candidly about her experience as a volunteer relief worker in Rwanda, and lessons on humility. Thank you Gabrielle for sharing your story with THOTM community!

Episode #33 is part 2 of our year-in-review, where we listen to clips from previous episodes and reflect on how we were impacted and inspired by some of our guests. We truly appreciate the love we've received from our family, friends and listening community. Your support and feedback is so important for our growth and to continue producing quality content. If there's anything that you like or don't like...guests and topics you'd like to hear, let us know. Please like, share, and follow! Subscribe to The Heart of the Matter podcast on iTunes and leave a review. You can also subscribe on our website heartofmatter.net  Once again, we really appreciate your love and support. We have some great things in store for 2020! Peace.

Year-In-Review (part 1) The Heart of the Matter podcast launched on November 19, 2018. However, our journey creating this podcast started over 3 years ago. Episode #32 is a part 1 of 2, year-in-review, where we reflect on highlights, challenges, and lessons from our first year in the podcast world.   We truly appreciate the love we've received from our family, friends and listening community. Your support and feedback is so important for our growth and to continue producing quality content. If there's anything that you like or don't like...guests and topics you'd like to hear, let us know. Please like, share, and follow!   Subscribe to The Heart of the Matter podcast on iTunes and leave a review.   You can also subscribe on our website heartofmatter.net   Once again, we really appreciate your love and support. We have some great things in store for 2020! Peace.

Mario Espitia is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in palliative care, and a doctorate student at USC.  Mario is also an expert in having difficult conversations. From coming out to his parents...to leaving his religious community...to helping patients and families discuss serious illnesses...he's been especially courageous.  He also talks with THOTM about his career switch from teaching to social work, and his exciting new journey as a doctorate student.

Haile Wright and Micheala Whaley are clinical social workers providing intensive outpatient treatment in San Diego. They joined THOTM for a discussion about mental health stigma and misconceptions, helping the underserved within a broken system, and the need for an integrative approach to mental health treatment. Haile and Micheala also share their experiences as Black women in the mental health profession.

Ernesto “Tito” Camacho and Analee “Lee” Phang are both marriage and family therapists...they're also husband and wife. Tito and Lee join THOTM and share their experience as a therapist couple, parenting, and the great balancing act of family, career and self care. Plus, their adorable daughter makes a special guest appearance. Enjoy!

For episode #28, THOTM welcomed Camila Ceren. She is studying public policy and psychology at UCSD. We discuss the connection between public policy and mental health, the importance of culturally informed research, and engaging marginalized communities. Camila also shared her experience doing community education and advocacy related to lactation and breastfeeding/chest-feeding.

Agustin Orozco is Associate Dean of Student Services and Special Programs at Cuyamaca College in San Diego County. He has an extensive history as a counselor, educator, and mentor. Agustin joined THOTM to talk about his work helping students from marginalized backgrounds succeed in higher education. However, Agustin's story is much deeper than his work. He shared his plight as a gay Mexican-American male, coping with grief, and fatherhood.

Rachael Parsons Svendsen is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Clarita, CA. She specializes in trauma informed care and has specific training in foster care and adoption related issues. We talked about the benefits of attachment therapy, her work with foster youth and families navigating the adoption process. Rachael also shared her inspiration for becoming a therapist and self-care practices that keep her grounded.    For information about Rachael's therapy practice visit: https://rcpstherapy.com

Marquise Anderson is an artist, historian and high school teacher for LAUSD. He talked an early teaching job led to his passion for art, the healing power of art, and using his creativity to engage youth in the classroom. Marquise also shares his family history and experiences that inspire his work, and his new project APSAW. 

Returning guest, Curtis Howard, is a writer, public speaker, and educator on gang and prison culture. He's the author of Cellmates and Cellouts and several articles in the San Diego Reader. In this conversation, he describes experiences that changed his perspective on gangs, prison activism, and becoming a writer. We also discuss PTSD, and overcoming the lasting effects of gang violence and the industrial prison complex.

Tanya Gentry, is the president/CEO of the Sickle Cell Disease Association San Diego chapter. She describes her experience living with Sickle Cell Disease, the physical, social, and emotional impact of living in pain, and shares her personal healing and wellness practices. She also sheds light on racial and socio-economic barriers to treatment and research, and helping people with sickle cell through education, community building, advocacy, and love. Thank you Tanya (and mom) for being a guest on THOTM. September is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month.  Donate to Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, if you would like to help fund Sickle Cell research and supportive services to those affected. Visit www.sicklecelldisease.org You can also donate to Sickle Cell Disease Foundation of California to support summer camps for children and other programs for individuals and families impacted by Sickle Cell. Visit www.scdfc.org

Sometimes our best conversations happen before we press “record”. This time, we just pressed the button and let an organic conversation become the episode. We had a great conversation about doing deep personal work, martial arts, emotionally disconnected men, and becoming our best selves. We hope you all join in and keep the conversation going.  If you enjoy our episodes, like it, share it and subscribe on our webpage.

This episode is the first of several that will highlight martial arts as a wellness practice and way of life. Our guest, Rafael Davis is a black belt in Brazilian Jujitsu, who was led to martial arts after a devastating motorcycle accident that left him disabled. He talked with us about the accident, his physical and emotional healing, and his journey to becoming a 3-time BJJ world champion.  In addition, we also discuss the path to self-mastery and the importance of financial wellness.

In this episode we sit down to celebrate Father's Day with Oswaldo Ramirez and Ashton Fulcher.  Oswaldo Ramirez is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and college professor. Ashton Fulcher is a youth counselor in San Diego. They join THOTM to reflect on fatherhood, and share their parenting experiences and lessons.

Katherine Vilchez is a counselor and instructor at several community colleges in San Diego, working specifically with programs that support underrepresented student populations.  Darielle Blevins is also a college counselor and instructor, who is earning a Ph.D in early child development. Our conversation focused on the unique experiences of first generation college students, mental/emotional needs of Black and Latino students, systemic oppression, and the specific challenges facing Black girls in education. Talking with these women is always a joy, so you'll definitely be hearing more from them in the near future.

Tracy Gilmour-Nimoy is a licensed marriage and family therapist in San Diego, who specializes in working with children. Her path to becoming a therapist started in childhood, as she recognized her passion for helping others. Tracy talked with us about her approach to therapy, the challenges and benefits of starting a private practice, and how she balances career, relationships and self-care. We found out that Tracy is also a writer and artist, currently working on a book series for children. Enjoy this episode! For info on Tracy's practice and therapy services go to: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/tracy-gilmour-nimoy-san-diego-ca/458688   Follow us on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heartmatterpodcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartofthematter_podcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/heartmatterpod

Elyde Arroyo is a Postpartum & Abortion Doula and Mesoamerican medicine practitioner. She is the owner of XoXo Baby natural baby products, and part of the Sacred Healing Collective, a San Diego based group that provides alternative and holistic health services. Elyde talked with us about her personal journey and motivation behind her practice, ancient wisdom, service to others, and the balance of being a single mother and business owner. We hope that everyone had a happy Mother's Day!   For more info about Elyde's services and products go to: Facebook @sacredhealingcollective Facebook @Xoxo Baby Instagram @xoxobabyus   Follow us on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heartmatterpodcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartofthematter_podcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/heartmatterpod

Dr. Mychal Odom is a historian and Black Studies professor at University of San Diego, Mesa and Miramar community colleges in San Diego. He is also a member of Pillars of the Community and other organizations working to empower the people of Southeast San Diego. Dr. Odom talked with THOTM about his dynamic approach to teaching, commitment to community activism, family and wellness.     Follow us on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heartmatterpodcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartofthematter_podcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/heartmatterpod

We started this episode a little different than usual, by talking current events. We discussed the tragic death of rapper Nipsey Hussle and his positive influence on a whole culture, as well as MDMA research as an approach to PTSD treatment. We also answer a couple of questions from our listeners about overcoming personal challenges. Articles: MDMA and PTSD https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/news/20181030/ecstasy-study-results-promising-for-ptsd MDMA and Neuroplasticity  https://hub.jhu.edu/2019/04/04/mdma-opens-critical-period-for-social-behavior/ https://www.inverse.com/article/54583-mdma-mice-critical-period-neuroplasticity Ongoing Psilocybin Research https://hopkinspsychedelic.org/ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0028390818302296?via%3Dihub   Follow us on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heartmatterpodcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartofthematter_podcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/heartmatterpod

Two and a half years ago we stepped into something new...a podcast and a political circus. This episode was recorded in November 2016, just 3 weeks after the Trump election. It was our very first recording - an episode we were initially unsure whether we would use but, after reflecting, it seemed timely and important given our current political climate.  Dr. Maria Nieto-Senour, Professor Paul Khalid Alexander, and school psychologist Vi Nguyen, shared their reactions to the election, talked local politics and community activism. As beginners in podcasting, our sound quality and hosting needed some improvements. Thankfully, we had amazing guests who carried the conversation. Thank you Maria for opening your home to us...again. We invite you to listen and reflect with us. Hope you enjoy!   Follow us on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heartmatterpodcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartofthematter_podcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/heartmatterpod

How to Find a Therapist with Michael and Jermaine Join us for an episode in which Jermaine and Michael discuss the process of looking for a therapist. -What does it mean to find a good therapist?  -How to find a good therapist? -What are the differences between the different types of therapist designations? -What are some cost effective options for therapy? -What to do if you are having a hard time finding a therapist or can't afford one? -What is the difference between therapy and coaching?   Resources: How to Find a Therapist WebMD  San Diego Resources 211 - Be sure to find the equivalent for your city Access & Crisis Line San Diego - be sure to find the equivalent for your city Therapist Aid - tools and resources for personal exploration   Follow us on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heartmatterpodcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartofthematter_podcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/heartmatterpod

Q&A with Michael and Jermaine Join us for an episode in which Jermaine and Michael answer questions related to their experiences in the mental health profession: -How did you become a counselor and why?-What is it like being a male counselor in a profession mostly comprised of women?-How have your views on mental health changed in your life?-What do you believe is true about mental health, even though you can't prove it?-Is there a mental health quote that you live by or think of often? -What have you changed your mind about in the past few years and why? Follow us on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heartmatterpodcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartofthematter_podcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/heartmatterpod

Kasimu Harley is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. For over 30 years, he has worked as a mental health clinician and advocate for under-represented students in San Diego Unified School District. We discussed the mental health, environmental, and systemic barriers to education. Kasimu also shares his personal journey overcoming community violence, racism, and the importance of overall wellness.   Follow us on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heartmatterpodcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartofthematter_podcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/heartmatterpod