M.E.S.H.

In this insightful episode of M.E.S.H., host Pamela Brewer welcomes psychotherapist Stella Kimbrough, LCSW, who specializes in trauma, depression, and anxiety. Together, they decode some of the "acronym soup" of modern psychotherapy, clarifying what EMDR, DBT, IFS, and other modalities actually mean. Stella Kimbrough explains the nuances of trauma, describes who benefits from specific therapies, a...

In this powerful episode of M.E.S.H., host Pamela Brewer sits down with Marie B. Philip, retired Deputy Commissioner of the NYC Human Resources Administration, to break down the realities of intimate partner violence and elder abuse. Drawing from frontline experience, Marie B. Philip offers insight into the patterns of domestic violence, the importance of community responses, and actionable steps...

Episode Summary In this inspiring edition of M.E.S.H., Pamela Brewer meets with acclaimed author, teacher, and writing coach Marita Golden to explore the healing power through writing. Marita Golden shares her personal journey as a writer, reveals how storytelling has shaped her life, and discusses the transformational role of writing for both self-care and societal change. The conversation highli...

Episode Summary: In this moving episode of MESH, host Pamela Brewer interviews Tracy Doyle, author of Life Storms: Finding Your Clear Sky and creator of the Aurora Method. Tracy Doyle shares her personal journey through childhood adversity, trauma, and emotional burnout, explaining how these experiences led her to develop M.E.S.H.—a framework for mindfulness and emotional healing. Together, they d...

In this insightful episode of M.E.S.H., host Pamela Brewer sits down with occupational therapist and author Stephen Nawotniak for an honest conversation about living with a bipolar condition. Stephen Nawotniak delves into his personal journey of managing bipolar disorder—from dealing with stigma and self-acceptance to practical tips for charting moods and navigating relationships and work life. Th...

In this insightful episode of M.E.S.H., host Pamela Brewer welcomes Julia Wood from the Lewy Body Dementia Association for an important discussion about Lewy Body Dementia (LBD), the second most common type of dementia that remains unfamiliar to many. The conversation explores the distinctions between LBD and Alzheimer’s, the challenges of diagnosis and management, the importance of caregiver supp...

In this insightful episode of M.E.S.H., host Pamela Brewer welcomes Tahara DeBarrows, a licensed marriage and family therapist, to discuss alexithymia—a personality trait often described as "emotional blindness." Tahara DeBarrows explains what alexithymia is, how it impacts relationships and personal well-being, and offers practical advice on how individuals can develop emotional awareness. The co...

In this insightful episode of M.E.S.H., host Pamela Brewer welcomes Dr. Lisa Pion-Berlin, CEO of Parents Anonymous for a dynamic conversation on the mental, emotional, and social challenges facing families today. The pair dive into the realities of parenting in the digital age, specifically the complexities that social media introduces to family dynamics. Dr. Lisa Pion-Berlin breaks down the ethos...

In this episode of M.E.S.H., host Pamela Brewer sits down with Nicholas Schmitt, Senior Director of Conflict Resolution and Training at Community Mediation Services in Queens, NY, to discuss practical strategies for handling difficult conversations. Whether it’s political discourse at family gatherings or heated debates among neighbors, Nicholas Schmitt shares expert tips for setting boundaries, r...

In this compelling episode of M.E.S.H., host Pamela Brewer welcomes author Jo Scott-Coe to discuss her books "Mass: A Sniper, a Father, and a Priest" and "Unheard Witness." The conversation dives deep into the hidden, insidious patterns of domestic violence and their connections to mass shootings, focusing especially on the often-overlooked experiences and expertise of victims. The episode explore...

In this deeply moving episode of M.E.S.H., host Pamela Brewer sits down with acclaimed author, musician, and poet Bruce A. Jacobs to discuss his forthcoming book, "Fishing While Black." Together, they explore vulnerability, masculinity, and the healing power of the natural world—especially as those themes intersect with trauma, race, and family history. Bruce shares personal stories about his rela...

In this week’s episode of M.E.S.H., host Dr. Pamela Brewer welcomes Carrie Ann Cleveland, Director of Cleveland Family Counseling and a licensed marriage and family therapist, to dive deep into understanding gaslighting, narcissistic abuse, and their impacts on mental and emotional health. Carrie Ann decodes the difference between everyday disagreements and manipulative tactics, discusses the unpr...

In this episode of M.E.S.H., host Pamela Brewer sits down with Leisa Hart, a sales manager and award-winning realtor at Long & Foster (Chevy Chase Circle and Navy Yard locations in D.C.) to explore the powerful connection between where you live and your emotional well-being. Together, they debunk myths about price point, discuss the emotional journey of choosing a home, share insights on navig...

In this powerful episode of M.E.S.H., host Pamela Brewer welcomes back Helen Winslow Black, author of "Seven Blackbirds," to dive deeper into the realities of domestic violence. Helen shares insight from her novel, which resonates with survivors thanks to its authenticity and emotional truth. Together, they unpack the complexities of communication in violent relationships, the pervasive cycle of s...

In this insightful episode of M.E.S.H., host Pamela Brewer sits down with Daphne Joseph, an accomplished operations manager turned entrepreneur. Daphne shares her remarkable journey from being a student and server at Perkins Diner to holding a demanding supervisory role at Estee Lauder, and eventually pivoting into entrepreneurship. They unpack how pivotal life events, especially motherhood, shape...

In this powerful episode of M.E.S.H., host Pamela Brewer sits down with Bruce A. Jacobs—author, poet, musician, and social influencer—to discuss his book Race Manners and its relevance in today’s America. Together, they explore the persistent and shifting landscape of racial and socio-economic tensions, the impact of online hate, extremism across various groups, and the immense challenges of disti...

In this enlightening episode of M.E.S.H., Dr. Pamela Brewer sits down with Dr. Ann Turner to explore the concept of "Living Apart Together" (LAT) relationships. Dr. Turner, a certified sex therapist and divorce coach, shares her expertise on why more couples—especially older adults and blended families—are choosing to maintain committed relationships while living in separate dwellings. Throughout...

In this insightful episode of M.E.S.H., host Dr. Pamela Brewer welcomes esteemed psychoanalyst Dr. Justin A. Frank—author of “Trump on the Couch”—for a wide-ranging conversation delving into the psychological underpinnings of current political and social turbulence. The discussion explores the rise of anger and chaos in today’s climate, and how former President Donald Trump’s appeal taps into deep...

In this powerful episode of M.E.S.H., host Pamela Brewer welcomes Helen Winslow Black, author of novel Seven Blackbirds . Together, they dive into the complex realities of abusive relationships, the subtle and overt dynamics that keep people trapped, and the healing journey that follows. The conversation spans the emotional impact on survivors, the nuanced effects on children, societal expectation...

Episode Summary: In this insightful episode of M.E.S.H., host Pamela Brewer sits down with licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist, and certified sex therapist Deborah Fox for a candid conversation about the realities of modern relationships. Together, they delve into topics like Imago Relationship Therapy, the myths and facts of sex therapy, maintaining connection after children, handlin...

M.E.S.H. Episode 1: "17 Runs with Olivia Chadwick" – Show Notes Episode Summary: In the first episode of M.E.S.H., host Pamela Brewer sits down with Olivia Chadwick, co-author of "17 Runs: The Unbeaten Path to Unlock Life’s True Potential," to explore the intricate connections between physical activity, mental well-being, overcoming challenges, and embracing personal idiosyncrasies. Olivia shares...

 Exciting News! Introducing M.E.S.H. – Your Weekly Boost for Mental, Emotional, and Social Health I’m thrilled to announce M.E.S.H., hosted by Dr. Pamela Brewer, the familiar voice from "Mind Talk." This is your new go-to podcast for concise, impactful conversations about your well-being. With episodes designed for our busy lives, you’ll get valuable insights in just 20 minutes every Wednesday. Ke...