The Melanin Wellness Podcast: Holistic Health and Healing for Black Women’s Wellness

Anxiety, Depression & the Black Man

In this episode of The Melanin Wellness Podcast, Cori tackles the sobering reality of mental health in the Black community, with a focus on the rising rates of anxiety disorders and suicide among Black men. Behind these statistics are lived experiences, unspoken struggles, and a need for urgent change.Cori explores the cultural and societal pressures that contribute to silence around mental health, the stigma that often prevents seeking help, and the lack of accessible resources that leave too many suffering in silence. This conversation goes beyond numbers to acknowledge the very real pain these statistics represent.Listeners will gain:Insight into the mental health challenges disproportionately affecting Black menAwareness of how anxiety and depression connect to rising suicide ratesEncouragement to break stigma and open dialogue within families and communitiesPractical ways to support healing, resilience, and preventionThis episode is both a call to awareness and a message of hope: healing is possible, and no one has to struggle alone.Quick Resource List:CDC Stats on Anxiety & Treatment Disparities (CDC)Lifetime Anxiety Prevalence in African Americans (PMC)Suicidal Thoughts among Rural Black Youth in Georgia (Axios)Black Americans’ Treatment Access & Underrepresentation in Mental Health Care (McLean Hospital, BioMed Central)HeadsUpGuys Tools & Directory (Wikipedia)The Confess Project & Community Advocates (Allure)Therapy for Black Men, Black Therapists Rock, etc. (Verywell Mind)Movember Awareness Mission (Wikipedia)

Brotherhood & Barbershops: Where Men Actually Talk

In this episode of The Melanin Wellness Podcast, Brotherhood & Barbershops: Where Men Actually Talk, we step inside one of the most powerful community spaces for Black men—the barbershop. Beyond the clippers and conversation, it’s a safe place where stories are shared, emotional intelligence is built, and real healing begins.This conversation shines a light on wellness for Black men, the importance of mental health in the Black community, and why redefining masculinity matters. Together, we break down the myth of the “strong Black man” while exploring what true strength looks like: vulnerability, growth, and brotherhood.If you’ve been looking for a podcast for Black women and men that covers self-care, emotional intelligence, and community wellness, this episode is for you. Whether you’re a man on your own healing journey or a woman seeking to understand and support the men in your life, you’ll find powerful takeaways here.✨ Listen now for unfiltered, uplifting dialogue that reminds us: the barbershop isn’t just about a fresh cut—it’s about fresh perspectives.Enjoying this work?  Consider supporting the show with a 1 time donation over on Buy me a Coffee:  https://buymeacoffee.com/themelaninwellnesspodcastTherapy for Black Men https://therapyforblackmen.org The Boris L. Henson Foundation https://borislhensonfoundation.org/Melanin & Mental Health https://www.melaninandmentalhealth.com/directory-therapists/BEAM https://wellness.beam.community/RECOMMENDED RESOURCE: A Healing Journal for Black Men: Prompts to Help You Reflect, Grow, and Live With Pride  https://amzn.to/3YOdPG9

The Weight He Carries: Black Men and Silent Stress

In this episode of The Melanin Wellness Podcast, host Cori dives deep into the often overlooked reality of silent stress among Black men. While strength and resilience are celebrated, the unspoken pressure to remain stoic can lead to emotional suppression, burnout, and long-term mental health challenges.Cori explores how societal and cultural expectations often discourage Black men from expressing vulnerability, creating a cycle that impacts not only individual well-being but also families and future generations. This conversation sheds light on the importance of safe spaces, open dialogue, and breaking generational patterns that keep men from prioritizing their emotional health.You’ll hear about:The hidden ways stress shows up in daily lifeWhy vulnerability is not weakness but a form of strengthHow to recognize silent stress before it becomes overwhelmingPractical strategies for healing, seeking support, and building communityIf you or someone you love has been carrying the weight of unspoken struggles, this episode offers both insight and empowerment. It’s time to normalize the conversation around mental health for Black men and uplift a culture of healing.✨ Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more conversations that inspire wellness, resilience, and growth.ResourcesTherapy for Black Men https://therapyforblackmen.org The Boris L. Henson Foundation https://borislhensonfoundation.org/Melanin & Mental Health https://www.melaninandmentalhealth.com/directory-therapists/BEAM https://wellness.beam.community/RECOMMENDED BOOK: A Healing Journal for Black Men: Prompts to Help You Reflect, Grow, and Live With Pride  https://amzn.to/3YOdPG9 SUPPORT THE SHOW: https://buymeacoffee.com/themelaninwellnesspodcast

Therapy Ain’t Weak: Rewriting the Narrative

In this episode of the Melanin Wellness Podcast, host Cori emphasizes the importance of men's mental health and the role of therapy in healing. She expresses gratitude to men who seek therapy and encourages listeners to support the men in their lives by creating safe spaces for vulnerability and healing. Cori shares statistics highlighting the mental health challenges faced by Black men and advocates for breaking the stigma surrounding therapy. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to start conversations about mental health and seek help when needed.00:00 Introduction and Gratitude for Men's Health01:50 The Importance of Therapy for Men05:18 Statistics on Mental Health in Black Men07:12 Supporting Men in Their Healing JourneyRESOURCES Mentioned:Buy me a Coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/themelaninwellnesspodcastTherapy for Black Men https://therapyforblackmen.org The Boris L. Henson Foundation https://borislhensonfoundation.org/Melanin & Mental Health https://www.melaninandmentalhealth.com/directory-therapists/BEAM https://wellness.beam.community/RECOMMENDED RESOURCE: A Healing Journal for Black Men: Prompts to Help You Reflect, Grow, and Live With Pride  https://amzn.to/3YOdPG9 

Emotional Intelligence for Men: It’s a Strength, Not a Soft Spot

In this episode of the Melanin Wellness Podcast, host Cori discusses the significance of emotional intelligence, particularly for men. She emphasizes that emotional intelligence is not a sign of weakness but a powerful tool for personal growth, relationship enhancement, and inner peace. The conversation covers practical steps to develop emotional intelligence, the importance of emotional maturity, and how to support men in their emotional growth. Cori encourages listeners to embrace healing and redefine strength, highlighting that emotional intelligence is a superpower that adds depth to masculinity.00:00 Introduction to Men's Health and Emotional Intelligence01:18 Understanding Emotional Intelligence03:41 The Importance of Emotional Maturity04:38 Practical Steps to Enhance Emotional Intelligence09:19 Supporting Emotional Growth in Men11:46 Tools for Building Emotional IntelligenceResources Mentioned Therapy for Black Men https://therapyforblackmen.org The Boris L. Henson Foundation https://borislhensonfoundation.org/Melanin & Mental Health https://www.melaninandmentalhealth.com/directory-therapists/BEAM https://wellness.beam.community/RECOMMENDED BOOK: A Healing Journal for Black Men: Prompts to Help You Reflect, Grow, and Live With Pride  https://amzn.to/3YOdPG9 

“Man Up?” Let’s Talk About the Mental Health Crisis in Men

In this episode of the Melanin Wellness Podcast, host Cori emphasizes the importance of Men's Health Month, focusing on the mental and emotional well-being of men, particularly Black men. The conversation highlights the harmful effects of societal expectations on masculinity, the need for open discussions about mental health, and the importance of creating safe spaces for men to express their vulnerabilities. Cori encourages listeners to redefine strength, support one another, and prioritize healing as a vital aspect of wellness.00:00 Introduction to Men's Health Month02:04 Breaking the Silence on Men's Mental Health04:55 Reclaiming Strength and Vulnerability08:26 Creating Safe Spaces for Conversations10:46 The Importance of Healing and SupportRESOURCES Mentioned:Therapy for Black Men https://therapyforblackmen.org The Boris L. Henson Foundation https://borislhensonfoundation.org/Melanin & Mental Health https://www.melaninandmentalhealth.com/directory-therapists/BEAM https://wellness.beam.community/Book: A Healing Journal for Black Men: Prompts to Help You Reflect, Grow, and Live With Pride  https://amzn.to/3YOdPG9 

Superwoman Syndrome: How Black Women Can Stop Doing It All Without Guilt w/ Lynise Green

In this episode of the Melanin Wellness Podcast, host Cori and guest Dr. Lynise Green discuss the challenges faced by Black women, particularly the pressures of the Superwoman Syndrome. They explore the importance of setting boundaries, practicing gratitude, and recognizing one's worth beyond societal expectations. Dr. Green emphasizes the need for self-care, the impact of emotional and spiritual wellness, and the significance of creating supportive environments in both personal and professional spaces. The conversation also touches on the joys of grandparenting and the lessons learned from nurturing the next generation.Chapters00:00 Challenging the Superwoman Syndrome02:50 The Power of Gratitude05:54 Recognizing the Need for Boundaries08:54 The Importance of Self-Validation11:51 Filling Your Own Cup14:58 Understanding Burnout17:47 Holistic Wellbeing and Healing26:08 Advocating for Supportive Work Environments32:19 The Power of Pausing and Mindfulness38:05 Shedding the Superwoman Syndrome42:00 The Joy of Grandparenting and Presence46:29 Empowerment and Rest as a BirthrightRESOURCES MENTIONED:Dr. Lynise Green:https://wellwithl.com/homeUse code MELANIN20 for 20% off on select mini- and mastery courses.Cori:🔗Links: https://bio.site/themelaninwellnesspodcast

No More Monthly Mayhem: The Lifestyle Fix for Happier Periods

In this episode of the Melanin Wellness Podcast, host Cori discusses the often misunderstood menstrual cycle, emphasizing that it should not be viewed as an enemy. Instead, she encourages listeners to see their cycles as a form of feedback from their bodies. The episode outlines practical lifestyle changes, nutritional advice, and herbal remedies that can help alleviate common menstrual symptoms. Cori also highlights the importance of tracking one's cycle to better understand individual health needs and responses.Key Takeaways:Your period is not your enemy; it's feedback from your body.Small lifestyle changes can lead to major relief from menstrual symptoms.Balancing blood sugar is crucial for reducing PMS symptoms.Syncing workouts with your menstrual cycle can enhance well-being.Magnesium is essential for reducing cramps and muscle spasms during menstruation.Seed cycling can help balance hormones naturally.Avoiding toxins in products can support hormonal health.Herbal teas can provide significant relief during menstrual phases.Tracking your cycle helps identify patterns and effective remedies.Living in harmony with your hormones can transform your experience.Sound bites"Your period is not your enemy.""Magnesium is a period superhero.""Brew your tea like a ritual."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Menstrual Wellness02:53 Reframing Your Menstrual Cycle05:57 Lifestyle Changes for Happier Cycles11:16 Herbal Remedies and Tea for Relief13:05 Tracking Your Cycle for Better Health14:33 Quick Start Period Peace PlanResources Mentioned:Ground Turkey omelette recipe https://themelaninwellnesspodcast.substack.com/p/ground-turkey-omelette-recipe?r=64js4a&triedRedirect=trueLink Cycle syncing 101 episode https://youtu.be/r4FQN--ajScDigital cycle trackers:FLO https://flo.health/Clue https://helloclue.com/MyFlow https://floliving.com/appThat time of the Mmmmmmmmhth Tea: buymeacoffee.com/themelaninwellnesspodcast/e/424562Magnesium supplement iHerb https://www.iherb.com/pr/21st-century-calcium-magnesium-zinc-d3-90-tablets/10695

Cycle Syncing 101: How to Work With Your Flow, Not Against It

In this episode, Cori discusses the importance of understanding the menstrual cycle and how it relates to nutrition and self-care. The conversation covers the different phases of the cycle, including the luteal and ovulatory phases, and offers practical tips for syncing activities with these phases. Cori emphasizes the need for women to honor their bodies and energy levels, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique rhythms and make informed choices about their health and wellness.TakeawaysFermented foods like kefir can be beneficial during the luteal phase.The ovulatory phase is a time of peak energy and confidence.Eating fiber-rich foods supports liver detox during ovulation.The luteal phase can bring cravings and mood changes.Listening to your body is crucial for self-care.Meal prepping is essential during low-energy phases.Plan big tasks during high-energy phases.Cycle syncing allows for a more flexible lifestyle.It's important to give yourself grace and not strive for perfection.Understanding your body's rhythm can enhance productivity and wellness.Resources Mentioned: Curb food cravings episode link: Stop food cravings with these proven methodsDigital tracking apps:FLO https://flo.health/Clue https://helloclue.com/MyFlow https://floliving.com/appThat Time of the Mmmmmmth Herbal Tea  buymeacoffee.com/themelaninwellnesspodcast/e/424562Check out the Cycle Syncing Article in this quarter's edition of The Melanin Wellness Podcast Magazine

Part 3: Motherhood, Wellness & Legacy with Dr. Dias

In part three of my conversation with Dr. Janice Johnson Dias, we explore motherhood, wellness, and legacy—and what it means for Black women to make wellness a non-negotiable. From building sustainable habits to healing generational cycles, this episode is about creating a wellness lifestyle that lasts. Perfect for Black women 35–59 looking for real conversations on self-care, balance, and thriving.Connect with Dr. Janice Johnson Dias:https://thedrjanice.com/https://www.instagram.com/drjanicejohnson/https://www.facebook.com/janice.johnson.9216https://twitter.com/drjanicejRead an exclusive BTS interview with Dr. Dias in the latest issue of The Melanin Wellness Podcast Magazine. ⁠https://themelaninwellnesspodcast.com/⁠