Silence The Shame podcast

When you dial 911, someone on the other end answers with calm, care, and urgency. But what happens to them after they hang up? In this episode, we talk with Lead Communications Officer/Certified Peer Support Counselor and Henry County's E-911 Leader, Rashawn Brown, about the emotional toll of being “first on the line” and why the mental health of dispatchers and first responders can’t be an aftert...

In this episode, Shanti Das sits down with 911 Communications Director Desiree Arnold for a powerful and eye‑opening conversation about the people who answer our most urgent calls for help. We often hear about the bravery of police, fire, and EMS in the field—but rarely do we talk about the emotional weight carried by the voices on the other end of the 911 line. Desiree pulls back the curtain on w...

In this powerful episode of Silence of Shame, host Shanti Das sits down with Fire Captain Harold Arnold to talk openly about the mental health challenges faced by firefighters and first responders. From the outside, we see the uniform, the courage, and the heroism. But behind the scenes, many first responders carry the invisible weight of trauma, loss, and constant pressure to “be strong.” Harold...

In this powerful episode of the Silence the Shame podcast, Shanti Das sits down with Keshia Johnson—Atlanta realtor, community builder, and widow of Atlanta Police Sgt. Darrell “DD” Johnson — for a deeply moving conversation about grief, resilience, and mental wellness for first responder families. In this episode, you'll hear about: 1. The layered grief of losing a spouse in law enforcement while...

In this powerful episode of the Silence the Shame podcast, Shanti Das sits down with Major Fred Watson, a seasoned law enforcement leader, for an honest, unfiltered conversation about mental health in law enforcement. In this episode, you'll hear about: 1. The emotional and psychological toll of serving as a police officer 2. How repeated exposure to trauma affects officers, their families, and co...

In this powerful episode, Shanti Das sits down with Dr. Carla Moore, a dedicated psychologist serving first responders in the Atlanta area. From firefighters and police officers to EMTs and dispatchers, Dr. Moore opens up about the real mental health challenges these everyday heroes face behind the scenes. They discuss how chronic exposure to trauma, long hours, and high-pressure situations can le...

Welcome to "Healing Connections," a podcast series by the STS Youth & Young Adult Advisory Council (YAC). YAC is dedicated to reducing mental health stigma and supporting Black and Latinx youth (ages 13–26) through education, suicide prevention, youth advocacy, and connecting young people to valuable resources. In Episode 3, "Keep in Touch: Building Connection After the Conversation," YAC members...

Welcome to "Healing Connections," a podcast series by the STS Youth & Young Adult Advisory Council (YAC). YAC is dedicated to reducing mental health stigma and supporting Black and Latinx youth (ages 13–26) through education, suicide prevention, youth advocacy, and connecting young people to valuable resources. In Episode 2, "Support: The Power of Showing Up," YAC members share practical ways to s...

Welcome to "Healing Connections," a podcast series by the STS Youth & Young Adult Advisory Council (YAC). YAC is dedicated to reducing mental health stigma and supporting Black and Latinx youth (ages 13–26) through education, suicide prevention, youth advocacy, and connecting young people to valuable resources. In Episode 1: "Acknowledge: Breaking the Silence," council members open up about the im...

In this three-part series, members of Silence the Shame University (STSU) Unpack powerful topics shaping the college experience—faith, mental health among Black men, and navigating relationships in college. Each episode explores these themes through real conversations with students, professionals, and experts who share personal stories and practical insights. Part THREE features a STSU Ambassador...

In this three-part series, members of Silence the Shame University (STSU) Unpack powerful topics shaping the college experience—faith, mental health among Black men, and navigating relationships in college. Each episode explores these themes through real conversations with students, professionals, and experts who share personal stories and practical insights. Part TWO features two STSU Ambassadors...

In this three-part series, members of Silence the Shame University (STSU) Unpack powerful topics shaping the college experience—faith, mental health among Black men, and navigating relationships in college. Each episode explores these themes through real conversations with students, professionals, and experts who share personal stories and practical insights. Part One features STSU Ambassador Alan...

In this enlightening episode of the Silence of Shame podcast, Shanti Das sits down with Aaron Santiago, the 988 Digital Operations Coordinator, to discuss the critical role of the newly established 988 crisis lifeline. They delve deep into how this service connects individuals in crisis with trained counselors, providing immediate support and mental health resources. The conversation highlights th...

In partnership with NFL Players Association (NFLPA), we sit down with Amber Cargill, a psychologist and the Director of Player Wellness and Affairs at the NFL Players Association. They engage in a vital conversation about the evolving landscape of mental health in sports, tackling important topics like mental toughness, the stigma surrounding mental health, and the resources available for both cur...

In partnership with NFL Players Association (NFLPA), we sit down with Nyree Reed, a spiritual inspirational speaker, author, and actress, who passionately inspires us in overcoming past experiences and everyday life challenges. Nyree’s spiritual journey and pathway to peace led her to a passion for helping women mature in their spiritual growth and seeing their value as a Queen. In this episode, w...

In this episode, Tasnim Sulaiman, LPC and Founder/CEO of Black Men Heal, discusses why she started a mental health nonprofit centered on healing black men and breaking the cycle in black men’s mental health. We also discuss the importance of Silence the Shame’s new campaign, “Healing the Spaces Between Us” and also how black men are taking control of their mental health by seeking therapy and supp...

In partnership with NFL Players Association (NFLPA), we sit down with American Professional Football Cornerback, Antonio Hamilton Sr., as he offers some valuable insights into the personal journey of a small town legend to a determined but assertive NFL player. Hamilton talks about leading through adversity, fostering a culture of excellence, and rising to challenges on and off the field. He discu...

In partnership with NFL Players Association (NFLPA), we sit down with Carmen Greenard Vernum, Mother of Minnesota Viking’s player Jonathan Greenard, and Tiara Hamilton, Spouse of Atlanta Falcon’s player Antonio Hamilton, discussing the challenges of family dynamics in a constantly changing environment. They share insights on maintaining routines, the importance of self-care, and the need for commu...

In partnership with NFL Players Association (NFLPA), we sit down with former NFL player, Evan "EO" Oglesby, as he shares his journey from a small-town upbringing to a six-year NFL career, emphasizing the importance of resilience and mental health. He discusses overcoming challenges, the impact of mentorship, and his commitment to helping youth through his foundation, promoting education and opport...

In this episode, we sit down with Tondra Harris, a mom who shares her experiences raising two daughters, navigating their mental health challenges, and the importance of open communication. Tondra emphasizes the need for unconditional love, emotional vulnerability, and active listening in parenting, while advocating for mental health education in schools. During this episode, you hear key themes s...

In this episode, we sit down with Joya Hicks, a mom who emphasizes the importance of self-care, community support, and open dialogue in parenting. She shares her experiences with Jack and Jill of America, focusing on empowering youth through conversations about mental health and cultural diversity while encouraging parents to model vulnerability and grace. During this episode, you hear key themes...

In this special episode celebrating World Mental Health Day (October 10), we sit down with 2024's Miss Peachtree City and Podcast Host of The Angelic Life, Angelica Resto. Angelica shares her journey from childhood trauma to becoming a mental health advocate. This empowering conversation emphasizes the importance of seeking help, creating safe spaces for conversations about mental health, and the...

In partnership with NFL Players Association (NFLPA), we sit down with former NFL player, Rennie Curran, to highlight the importance of mental health, especially among athletes, emphasizing the need to break stigmas and normalize conversations around emotional well-being. Rennie Curran shares his journey from NFL player to mental health advocate, stressing the significance of personal development,...

In partnership with NFL Players Association (NFLPA), we sit down with former NFL player, Brandon Chubb, to discuss the concept of redefining mental wellness and the importance of addressing mental health in vulnerable communities. We discuss how "mental toughness" isn't about the lack of vulnerability but rather doing the things that will support your overall mental health. During this episode, yo...

On this week's episode of The Silence the Shame Podcast, our host, L.ife, sits down with Emma Lee M.C., Hip-Hop Creative that uses her lived experience and platform to destigmatize suicide within families, communities, and the culture. Hip-hop and artists have long been addressing mental health challenges and suicide in their lyrics, serving as a reminder that these issues affect individuals from...