Conversations with Toi

In this episode of Conversations with Toi , I’m diving into a topic that so many people quietly wrestle with: whether to medicate or not when it comes to mental health. There are a lot of negative stereotypes and heavy judgments attached to medication, and today I’m unpacking why those narratives exist and how they impact real people trying to heal. I talk about medication as a tool —not the only...

In this episode of Conversations with Toi , I'm unpacking the recent drama surrounding Dr. Cheyenne Bryant—not to add fuel to the fire, but to highlight a deeper conversation we don’t have often enough: why working with a licensed, qualified therapist matters , and why your own clarity and flexibility matter just as much. When public figures in the mental‑health space become the center of controve...

In this episode of Conversations With Toi , we’re unpacking what it really means to have Type A tendencies —the drive, the structure, the ambition, and yes, the pressure we quietly put on ourselves. We talk about how these traits can be both powerful and overwhelming, and how unlearning perfectionism becomes a necessary part of any real wellness journey. Because being “on” all the time isn’t susta...

In this episode of Conversations With Toi , we’re joined by the incredible Amy Impellizzeri to talk about her work with BLOCS and the powerful ways the organization is investing in the next generation of men and women. We dig into the mission behind BLOCS, the importance of educational access, and how community support truly changes futures. We also highlight the upcoming BLOCS Speaker Series happ...

This week on Conversations With Toi , we’re starting with a real check‑in — the kind that goes beyond “I’m fine.” I’m sharing where I am mentally and emotionally as we move through a heavy news cycle and try to stay grounded in our own lives. From there, we’re diving into the rise in viral violence against women and the emotional toll it’s taking on all of us. These stories aren’t just headlines —...

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses sexual violence, abuse of power, and the recent CNN “Rape Academy” investigation. Please listen with care and step away if you need to. Your wellbeing comes first. In this episode, we dive into one of the most disturbing and necessary conversations of our time. The CNN “Rape Academy” report has shaken many, and we unpack why these patterns of abuse continue...

Spring is here, but that doesn’t mean our minds and bodies automatically shift into bloom mode. In this episode of Conversations With Toi, I'm talking about the emotional reality of spring — the mood swings, the pressure to “be outside,” the social re‑entry anxiety, and the messy middle between wanting to grow and wanting to rest. Let's explore why seasonal transitions hit so differently, how wint...

There’s a particular kind of heartbreak that happens when you walk into therapy carrying wounds someone else created, yet the work ahead is yours alone. Healing Without the Apology explores that quiet, complicated space where personal accountability meets unresolved hurt. Each episode dives into what it means to rebuild yourself without closure, to take responsibility for your reactions without ex...

In this episode of Conversations With Toi, I'm getting real about something far too many of us normalize—survival mode. It’s that constant state of pushing, grinding, and functioning on fumes, where you’re doing everything except actually living. But here’s the truth: survival mode may help you get through a moment, but it was never meant to become your lifestyle. We’ll break down what survival mo...

In this episode of Conversations With Toi, I'm talking about what it really means to pour from an empty cup — not the cute Instagram version, but the real-life, real-time signs that you’re running on fumes while still trying to show up for everyone else. We’ll break down how to recognize when your cup is drying out, the subtle ways burnout disguises itself as “being strong,” and the emotional toll...

This week on Conversations with Toi, we’re digging into what it really means to reframe your wellness journey—not from perfection, pressure, or comparison, but from honesty, curiosity, and compassion. Wellness isn’t a straight line, and this episode explores how to pause long enough to ask: What is this moment trying to teach me? We also get into a necessary and layered conversation about therapy,...

In this inspiring episode of Conversations With Toi , I sit down with the “People’s Bishop,” Bishop Kevin Foreman, for a conversation rooted in faith, wellness, mental health, and everyday common sense. Bishop Freeman opens up about why he embraces the title “The People’s Bishop” and how his mission is grounded in accessibility, authenticity, and serving people where they truly are. We talk about...

In this episode of Conversations with Toi, I'm diving into the concept of weaponized incompetence—calling out the ways people use it to dodge responsibilities and how we can set better boundaries. We'll also touch on celebrating Black History Month, sharing clear Valentine's Day wishes with your partner, self-care tips for anyone flying solo, and a quick update on my latest adventures with my Hatc...

This week on Conversations With Toi, we’re talking about what it really looks like to take a bold leap — the kind that shifts your entire life. I’m sharing the lessons I learned moving from a small town to Philadelphia, and how that transition forced me to grow, stretch, and trust myself in new ways. We’re also getting into the truth about fear: how it convinces us to stay still, shrink, or wait f...

In this episode of 'Conversations With Toi,' we're unpacking the idea of 'running a tight program' in relationships. Are we really as in control as we think? We'll also talk about processing grief following the loss of my aunt, and the complexities of navigating a relationship—or the absence of one—with my biological father. And with winter on the way, we're wrapping up with some tips on prepping...

In this episode of Conversations With Toi, we’re diving into the non‑traditional ways to check in on the “strong friend”—the one who always shows up, always holds it together, and rarely gets asked how they’re really doing. We’re talking about the subtle check-ins, the intentional gestures, and the everyday ways you can support the people who seem the most unshakeable. This conversation is all abo...

In this episode of Conversations With Toi, we're stepping into the new year with intention, clarity, and a commitment to growth. I’m diving into what it really means to leave spaces—and people—better than you found them. This isn’t just a cute saying; it’s a mindset shift that shapes how you move, how you love, and how you show up in every room. We’re also talking about refusing to be anyone’s “bu...

In this festive episode of Conversations with Toi, we’re celebrating the holidays and then diving headfirst into how to make 2026 your year of radical self-honesty. Forget the usual resolutions—we’re owning the hiccups that stand in our way and making personal development the main character of our story ....................................... If you’re ready to move past surface-level resolutions...

The holidays bring out the cozy traditions—matching pajamas, family photos, and curated moments that flood our timelines. But behind the festive snapshots, not every couple or family fits the picture-perfect mold. In this episode, we unpack the envy and pressure that can come with outward displays of “togetherness,” and why matching spirits matter far more than matching fabrics. I also share my th...

Welcome back to Conversations with Toi. The holidays can be a season of light, laughter, and togetherness—but they can also bring up feelings of grief, loneliness, and the holiday blues. In this episode, I’m opening up about what it means to be honest with ourselves during this season, how to acknowledge the hard moments, and why embracing simple joys can help us reconnect with what matters most....

As Thanksgiving approaches, boundaries matter more than ever. In this heartfelt episode of Conversations with Toi, I dive into the real talk around setting and honoring boundaries—with yourself and with others. Whether you're navigating family dynamics, protecting your peace, or redefining what the holiday means to you, this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and actionable insight. 🎙️ What...

In this episode, we dive deep into the moments when life shakes our inner stillness—unexpected conflict, emotional overwhelm, or simply too much noise. How do we respond when our peace is disrupted? I share grounded strategies for reclaiming calm, setting boundaries, and honoring your emotional truth without losing yourself. Whether you're navigating a tough season or a tough conversation, this ep...

In this episode, we dive deep into the tension between emotional triggers and personal responsibility. From Kevin McCall’s raw revelation that wealth doesn’t shield you from life’s unpredictability, to Gucci Mane’s candid conversation with The Breakfast Club about his mental health journey—we explore how healing begins with honesty. I also reflect on the books I’ve read this week: Kamala’s 107 Day...

In this episode, we’re diving deep into the subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs that your self-care might be slipping through the cracks. From the glorification of overworking and never taking a break, to constantly saying “yes” when your soul is screaming “no,” we’re unpacking the habits that masquerade as productivity but actually drain your emotional and physical well-being. We’ll explore red flag...

In this episode of Conversations with Toi, I'm diving deep into what it means to feel stuck—emotionally, creatively, and collectively. From navigating the weight of a government shutdown to the everyday chaos that almost had me checking somebody’s child in these Philly streets (yes, it got real), we’re unpacking reactive behavior, emotional regulation, and the power of pause. This isn’t just venti...