Bloom with Dr. Darlene

In this deeply personal episode of Bloom, Dr. Darlene sits down with Melissa Marius-Burke for a heartfelt conversation about her father's bipolar disorder, his death by suicide, and the journey of grief that followed. Melissa reflects on how working with Dr. Darlene helped her gain a deeper understanding of her father's mental illness, which has helped her make sense of painful memories, process h...

In this episode of Bloom with Dr. Darlene , licensed clinical social worker Charles Cox shares expert insights into some of today's most common parenting challenges. Together, he and Dr. Darlene discuss how to move beyond generational parenting, offering practical ways to strengthen parent-child relationships, encourage open communication, and help children feel heard and understood. Strong parent...

What does debt do to our minds, our relationships, and our sense of self? In this episode, three financial experts join Dr. Darlene to unpack the emotional, psychological, and financial impact of being in debt, from stress and shame to anxiety and the lasting effects of poor credit. Alongside their professional expertise, her guests also share their own personal financial challenges, offering a fi...

Juneteenth is a reminder not only of freedom delayed, but of the ongoing responsibility to protect, expand, and live that freedom fully. In this meaningful episode, the show’s Executive Producer and esteemed civil rights attorney, Frederick K. Brewington , joins Dr. Darlene for a powerful and deeply personal discussion on the state of politics today, what true positive leadership and advocacy look...

In this heartfelt episode, Dr. Darlene welcomes school principal, educator, and author Keith D. Saunders Sr. to talk about the story behind his recent book, Roosevelt to the Hamptons: The War on Both Sides . Together, they explore how his life experiences shaped this coming-of-age story and how trauma, while painful, can also become a pathway to healing, growth, and purpose. Rooted in the spirit o...

What happens when we prioritize our well-being? In this episode, Dr. Darlene sits down with two fitness experts, Onix Salva, owner of Speed Island, and Kathy Leistner. Personal Trainer and widow of Dr. Ken Leistner, who shares the powerful ways exercise and healthy living have influenced their personal growth, relationships, and professional success. You'll hear personal experiences, practical wis...

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Darlene welcomes two extraordinary young leaders who are using their voices and platforms to uplift others and create positive change. Laiba Idrees, founder and executive director of Actualize Foundation, and Lukas Venturas, congressional candidate for New York District 1, share the experiences that shaped their passion for service, leadership, and community impact....

A poet and a jazz musician join Dr. Darlene for a soulful exploration of creativity, inspiration, and expression. Through stories, reflection, and live performances, they share what moves them to create, and how art becomes a form of love, connection, and healing. An invitation to BLOOM through song, language, and presence. Rashann Cruse, Jr. https://rahsaancrusejr.online/ https://www.instagram.co...

Dr. Darlene welcomes two powerhouse women attorneys for a candid conversation on communication and perception in relationships. Together, they explore the tension between communicating with strength and softness and between being heard and being misread. From navigating bias in professional spaces to building trust in relationships, they discuss blind spots, vulnerability, self-reflection, and the...

In this deeply personal episode, Dr. Darlene welcomes a dear friend, accomplished attorney and seasoned minister who spent years holding marriage workshops alongside his late wife. Together, they discuss the spiritual and practical foundations of a strong marriage: commitment, grace, communication, and staying anchored through life’s challenges. It’s an inspiring conversation about enduring love a...

Marriage isn’t just about staying together. It’s about growing together. In this episode, two couples sit down with Dr. Darlene and open up about the quieter work of love, working through struggles, evolving as individuals, and finding meaningful ways to care for themselves and each other. Their stories reveal how self-awareness and daily acts of love can transform a relationship from surviving to...

What happens when love meets orders, moves, and months apart? Dr. Darlene asked two military couples to record themselves answering some real questions about their marriages. The result: candid conversations about sacrifice, communication, identity shifts, and staying connected through it all. Real talk, real stories, and an honest, human look at love shaped by service. Links Website: https://www....

In this episode, Dr. Darlene has a candid conversation with men, taking a deeper look at male perspectives in relationships. Together, they explore attraction, emotional needs, vulnerability, and the impact of toxic masculinity on modern dating. It’s an honest, no-filter conversation about authenticity, communication, and what it really takes to build a strong connection. Links Website: https://ww...

In the second of a two-part conversation, Dr. Garlington sits down with some of the ladies from the Bloom group to discuss the various topics that are explored in the group. This episode focuses on trauma, including marital conflict, sexual assault, and family dysfunction. Links Website: https://www.drdarlene.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarlene Instagram: https://www.instagr...

In the first of a two-part conversation, Dr. Garlington sits down with some of the ladies from the Bloom group to discuss the various topics that are explored in the group. Topics include relationships with men, the difference between sex and making love, assertive communication and other complex issues women face. Links Website: https://www.drdarlene.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMw...

Meet Dr. Darlene, a psychologist who promotes being loving to self and others as a way of life. Listeners will learn about Dr. Darlene, her work, and what is on the horizon for future episodes. Links Website: https://www.drdarlene.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarlene Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarlene Su...