Black People Die By Suicide Too Podcast

Get ready for an inspiring conversation as Jordan chats with Mila and Carissa , the trailblazing duo behind Mental Health Boxes. Born from Mila’s own experience receiving self-care packages during mental health treatment, each box is filled with empowering tools to help young Black girls nurture their well-being and prioritize self-care. Tune in to hear how this incredible initiative is transformi...

Jordan is joined by Rafiah Maxie-Cole , a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and mother, to share her personal journey of healing following the loss of her son, Jamal. During a moment of reflection in Jamal’s room, Rafiah noticed a pair of her son's sneakers and became inspired to support other families in crisis. Rafiah founded the Soul Survivors of Chicago, a non-profit organization committed...

Jordan is joined by WyKisha McKinney , a suicide loss survivor, to discuss her journey of recovery after losing her younger brother to suicide. WyKisha shares her experience with suicidal ideation after her brother’s passing and how she found a way to heal and move forward from that difficult time. As a speaker, mental health advocate, and social entrepreneur, she highlights how supporting others...

T-Kea and Jordan are joined by Tramaine EL-Amin , Vice President for Mental Health First Aid USA at the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, to highlight the significance of recognizing and responding to signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges. Just as CPR offers lifesaving assistance to those in physical distress, Mental Health First Aid trains participants to provide s...

T-Kea and Jordan are joined by Jasmine Price , Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, to discuss the impact of generational trauma within Black families. Specializing in historical and intergenerational trauma, Jasmine is the founder of Pride of Nyla, a clinical practice that focuses on decolonizing mental health approaches to foster healing and resilience. Spotlight Courtney Jamal Dewar, Jr.,...

T-Kea and Jordan are joined by Janiah Fields , a senior psychology major and Africana Studies minor at McDaniel College, to discuss her work as a mental health advocate for Black youth, particularly around the issue of suicidality. Janiah provides insight on how to foster mental wellness within younger generations. Spotlight Siwe Monsanto, a young student, gifted dancer, writer and guitar player f...

T-Kea is joined by her childhood friend of 20 years, Raymond Baynard , a Broadway performer and SUNY Purchase graduate, to discuss mental health in the entertainment industry. Tune in as they explore the unique pressures of the stage, the importance of self-care, and how Raymond navigates his mental wellness as a professional artist. Spotlight Jovan Belcher, Kansas City Chiefs Linebacker, died by...

T-Kea and Jordan are joined by Rana Campbell , entrepreneur and host of the Dreams in Drive Podcast, to discuss balancing the responsibilities of motherhood while working to achieve personal and professional goals. Spotlight Jamal Clay died by suicide on May 27, 2020 at the age of 19. His mother, Rafiah Maxie-Cole, founded Soul Survivors of Chicago to promote suicide prevention, mental health, and...

T-Kea is joined by Zaira, mental health advocate and creator of the podcast Adoptees Crossing Lines, to discuss the emotional impact of being adopted. Zaira also discusses the experience of volunteering for BPDBST as a member of the Communications committee.  Spotlight DeAndre Jones, son of boxer Roy Jones Jr., died by suicide on June 22, 2024 at the age of 32. Resource The Adoptees Crossing Lines...

On this week's episode, T-Kea is joined by Dr. Raquel Martin to discuss the importance of having healthy boundaries, self-care, and wellness. Dr. Martin, a licensed clinical psychologist, researcher, and professor at Tennessee State University, explains how setting boundaries positively impacts mental health and distinguishes the difference between boundaries and rules. Spotlight Lowell Hawth...

Due to organizational challenges and our team's dedication, we're taking July to reset and prepare for National Suicide Prevention Month in September. During our break, you can support us by donating, attending our support groups, or volunteering. Your help keeps our mission alive. We'll be back in August, ready to continue our work in mental health advocacy. Thank you for your ongo...

On this week's episode we are joined by Dr. Durga Roy, MD, FACLP In this insightful episode of Brain Mind Matters, we are joined by Dr. Durga Roy, MD, FACLP, the esteemed Medical Director of the Johns Hopkins Bayview Neuropsychiatry Clinic, Director of Education for Bayview Psychiatry, and Director of the Consult-Liaison Psychiatry Fellowship. Dr. Roy delves deep into the mental health effect...

In this enlightening episode, Co-Hosts T-Kea and Jordan are joined by Jason Phillips, LCSW, a renowned confidence expert, who delves into the intricate process of building confidence and how past trauma can significantly impact our self-esteem. Jason shares invaluable insights and practical strategies to help you reclaim your confidence, regardless of your past experiences.  Follow Jason on IG ! C...

Introduction Co-hosts T-Kea and Jordan compare their mental health to the changing seasons (spring, summer, winter, and fall)  sharing personal insights and experiences. Join them as they encourage listeners to check in with themselves, identify their current mental season, and find ways to nurture their well-being throughout the year. Spotlight Darren Clark, Jr. was a young man from New Jersey wh...

Introduction BPDBST is turning one! T-Kea and Jordan discuss the challenges and triumphs in their first year as a podcast and non-profit organization. Spotlight Phoenix Skye Maloney died by suicide on May 1, 2024 at the age of 20. A student who loved music and spending time with family, Phoenix lived with schizoaffective disorder. Resource Eustress Inc. is a non-profit that focuses on raising ment...

Introduction T-Kea and Jordan are joined by Dr. Rossalyn Thyssen , founder of Traeh Thyssen Have A hearT , to discuss losing her teenage son, Traeh to suicide and the impact of bullying on youth mental health. Spotlight Jamari Terrell Williams , a fifth-grade student from Montgomery, Alabama, died by suicide on October 10, 2017, at the age of 10. The Jamari Terrell Williams Student Harassment Act...

Introduction T-Kea and Jordan discuss a common dilemma that peer support specialists and loved ones face when providing support to people who are struggling emotionally. When is it appropriate to share our personal stories of recovery? Does sharing our story take away from the individual who needs support? Spotlight Dr. Antoinette "Bonnie" Candia-Bailey served as Lincoln University'...

Introduction T-Kea and Jordan discuss the ins and outs of anxiety and its potential effects on the ability to manage day to day life. Spotlight Malik Webber died by suicide on March 17, 2020 at the age of 21. Click here to read more about Malik and metro Chicago's increase in suicide deaths during 2020. Resource The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) is a non-profit organiza...

Introduction T-Kea and Jordan discuss the ins and outs of anxiety and its potential effects on the ability to manage day to day life. Spotlight Malik Webber died by suicide on March 17, 2020 at the age of 21. Click here to read more about Malik and metro Chicago's increase in suicide deaths during 2020. Resource The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) is a non-profit organiza...

Introduction T-Kea and Jordan are joined by Mark Harrison to discuss the importance of recognizing and supporting the mental health of Black men and boys. Mark is a clinical mental health counselor, mental health advocate, and Army veteran who survived two suicide attempts. Spotlight Charles Johnson, former NFL wide receiver, died by suicide on July 17, 2022 at the age of 50. Charles played for th...

Introduction T-Kea and Jordan discuss the importance of speaking up when you have questions or concerns during the course of mental health treatment. Advocating for your needs is a great way to become an active participant in your recovery. Spotlight Chris Vaughn died by suicide in 2021 after struggling with PTSD. The following year, his mother, Deneen Vaughn, and brother, Cameron Vaughn, founded...

Introduction T-Kea and Jordan are joined by Victor Armstrong, Vice President for Health Equity and Engagement with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), to discuss a new initiative called L.E.T.S. Save Lives: An Introduction to Suicide Prevention for Black and African American Communities. Spotlight Join us as we celebrate Renewed Resilience Day (considered one’s second birthday),...

Introduction | T-Kea and Jordan are joined by Lauren Jenkins, LCPC and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) to discuss the impact of trauma and its connection to suicide. Spotlight | Marshawn McCarrel, a Black Lives Matter Activist who died by suicide on the steps of the Statehouse in Columbus, OH. Marshawn died on February 8, 2016 at the age of 23. Resource | TheJourney2Well, founded by...

Introduction T-Kea and Jordan are joined by Khia Glover, LCSW, to discuss the importance of fostering healthy mental wellness in children and how parents can support their kids to thrive emotionally. Spotlight Stormiyah Denson-Jackson, a seventh-grader from Washington, DC, died by suicide on January 23, 2018 at the age of 12. Stormiyah was a victim of bullying. Her death led to the passing of the...

Introduction T-Kea and Jordan are joined by Dr. Rheeda Walker to discuss her book, The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health. Dr. Walker gives practical tips on how to manage mental health while living life unapologetically black. Spotlight: Lee Thompson Young, star of Disney’s The Famous Jett Jackson, died by suicide on August 19, 2013, at the age of 29. Resource: The Unapologetic Guide to Bl...