M.E.S.H.

Dr. Pamela Brewer
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Where your Mental, Emotion, and Social Health is always on the agenda!

  1. Writing as Healing with Marita Golden

    2D AGO

    Writing as Healing with Marita Golden

    Episode SummaryIn 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 highlights writing not just as a career or creative outlet, but as a therapeutic practice that can heal wounds, transcend personal myths, and foster joy—even in challenging times. Topics CoveredThe myths surrounding who gets to be a writerWriting as a process of healing and self-discoveryThe effect of writing on emotional and mental healthChallenging hierarchy and exclusivity in the practice of writingThe intersection of writing, therapy, and self-careThe upcoming workshop: "The Joy of Writing"Facing judgment and building resilience as a writer Key TakeawaysWriting is not reserved for a select few; everyone is capable and deserving of telling their stories.Writing can act as both a therapeutic tool and an act of self-care, helping people make sense of their experiences and emotions.The process of writing often brings surprising realizations and deeper understanding for the writer, not just the reader.Giving oneself permission to write authentically is a powerful step toward healing.Facing criticism is part of being a writer, but the desire to express oneself provides resilience.The myths and hierarchies around writing should be challenged, making space for all voices—especially those historically marginalized. The Six Best Quotes"We all are writers. We write our lives. We become authors of our lives through the choices we make every day." – Marita Golden"Writing has deeply healed me and brings me joy, and it never lets me down." – Marita Golden"Your writing will help you unravel the knots in your heart... You could write simply to take care of yourself, even if you have no desire to publish your work." – Marita Golden quoting Louise DeSalvo"The desire to write imbues you with so much resilience that you can take judgment." – Marita Golden"You just have to be you. And you have to just put that first sentence on the page and the sentence will lead you by the hand." – Marita Golden Connect with the GuestWebsite: maritagolden.comFor information about upcoming workshops and classes, visit the website and sign up for the email list. ResourcesBooks:"Writing as a Way of Healing: How Telling Our Stories Transforms Our Lives" by Louise DeSalvo"Don't Play in the Sun: One Woman's Journey Through the Color Complex" byMarita Golden"How to Become a Black Creating and Honoring Black Stories that Matter" byMarita Golden Organizations:Zora Neale Hurston/Richard Wright Foundation (co-founded byMarita Golden) Workshops & Courses:The Joy of Writing: Six-Week Workshop of Discovery and Creativity (details at maritagolden.com) Top 8 Hashtags#MaritaGolden#WritingAsHealing#MESHpodcast#Storytelling#SelfCare#TherapeuticWriting#EmotionalHealth#CreativeHealing For more episodes, inspiration, and updates, be sure to subscribe and share M.E.S.H.!

    20 min
  2. From Trauma to Recovery and Fulfillment

    2025-12-31

    From Trauma to Recovery and Fulfillment

    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 discuss the power of self-awareness, breaking negative patterns, and building authentic connections, emphasizing that no matter our wounds, anyone can reclaim joy and fulfillment. Topics Covered:The impact of early wounds and trauma on adult behaviorThe development and philosophy behind the Aurora MethodThe concept of the “reaction cascade” and its effects on relationshipsSteps and phases of the Aurora Method (self-assessment, breakthrough, restoration)Shifting one’s perspective and connecting with othersThe power and necessity of looking within and self-reflection Key Takeaways:Early experiences, especially trauma and neglect, shape core beliefs and behaviors that persist into adulthood unless consciously addressed.The Aurora Method offers a personalized, step-by-step mindfulness framework to identify, name, and change negative patterns.Healing and growth begin by looking within, not blaming outside circumstances.By shifting one’s internal responses, interpersonal relationships and work dynamics can dramatically improve.Self-awareness is not about fixing oneself instantly, but gradually understanding and shifting patterns for lasting change.Emotional wounds may stunt personal growth, but recognizing and addressing these wounds unlocks fulfillment and joy. Quotes:“When we recognize that we can reshape what shaped us… what we get back is that inner fulfillment and joy”Tracy Doyle"It's really about when we can understand our patterns that quietly shape everything... then we actually can change things." —Tracy Doyle Connect with the Guest:Book: Life Storms: Finding Your Clear Sky – available on AmazonDirect contact: “Schedule a one-on-one with me” via her website www.tracydoyle.life #MentalHealth#EmotionalHealing#SelfAwareness#Mindfulness#TraumaRecovery#AuroraMethod#PersonalGrowth#MESHpodcast Enjoyed the episode?Share MESH with someone you care about  and join M.E.S.H. with Dr Pamela Brewer every week  for more inspiring conversations. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

    20 min
  3. How to Thrive and Survive Mood Disorders

    2025-12-24

    How to Thrive and Survive Mood Disorders

    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. Their discussion is filled with empowering advice on embracing mental health challenges as part of personal development, and practical steps for living meaningfully, rather than with shame or secrecy. Topics Covered: Overcoming community and self-stigmaDisclosing mental health challenges in personal relationships and the workplaceTools for self-awareness: the value of tracking and charting moodsSteps for self-care and empowerment in managing mental healthResources and advice for those living with—or supporting someone with—mood disorders Key Takeaways: Mood disorders are not rare or shameful; they’re part of the broader human experience.Self-stigma—internalizing your diagnosis as your identity—can be more limiting than outside stigma.No one needs to be alone; connecting with others who understand can make a real difference. Quotes:“My journey is about personal growth and development and building wisdom and self understanding more so than trying to fight or overcome an illness.” –Stephen Nawotniak“Curiosity is one of my favorite words.” –Pamela Brewer“The two biggest lies that I've experienced with depression is, number one, it will always be this way. And number two, I'm all alone.” –Stephen Nawotniak“While each one of us has to walk our journey ourselves, we don't have to be alone in that journey.” –Stephen Nawotniak Connect with the Guest: Website: https://www.stephennawotniak.com/ Resources List: Book: Handbook for Healthy Living with a Mood Disorder by Stephen NawotniakGuest’s Website:https://www.stephennawotniak.com/— for further information, resources, and ways to connect withStephen Nawotniak#MentalHealth#BipolarDisorder#OccupationalTherapy#SelfAwareness#EndStigma#HealthyLiving#Mindfulness#MESHPodcast#Depression Share this episode with someone you care about!

    20 min
  4. Lewy Body Dementia: The Second Most Common Dementia You’ve Never Heard Of

    2025-12-17

    Lewy Body Dementia: The Second Most Common Dementia You’ve Never Heard Of

    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 support, and emerging research. Julia Wood shares resources and strategies for those navigating the world of dementia, providing hope and information for individuals, families, and clinicians. Topics Covered: Understanding Lewy Body Dementia vs. Alzheimer’sThe dementia umbrella: types and misconceptionsSymptoms, age range, and gender differences in LBDDiagnosis challenges and symptom checklistsCurrent state of research, including environmental factorsTreatment options, medication challenges, and quality of lifeImportance of individualized care and interdisciplinary medical teamsCaregiver journeys, peer support programs, and resources Key Takeaways: Lewy Body Dementia is the second most common dementia, yet remains underrecognized compared to Alzheimer's.LBD presents differently than Alzheimer’s, requiring distinct medical and support approaches.There is currently no cure for any dementia; treatments focus on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.Diagnosis is complex and often involves clinical checklists, neuropsychological evaluations, and attention to psychiatric and sleep symptoms.LBD does not have defined stages like Alzheimer’s; every case is unique, posing challenges for families and clinicians.Caregivers and families need extensive support, resources, and community to navigate the unpredictable journey of LBD.Building an interdisciplinary care team is crucial; self-advocacy is often required.The Lewy Body Dementia Association offers comprehensive support and resources for both individuals living with LBD and their care partners. Best Quotes: “Alzheimer’s and Lewy Body Dementia couldn’t be more different.” Julia Wood, LBD“We have a saying…if you’ve seen one person with Lewy, you’ve seen one person with Lewy.” Julia Wood“There’s no cure for any of the dementias.” Pamela Brewer“Care partners…need resources, need education.” Pamela Brewer Connect with the Guest: Lewy Body Dementia Association Website: lbda.orgSupport Services Line: support@lbda.orgPhone: 1-800-539-9767Resources List: Lewy Body Dementia Association: lbda.orgComprehensive Symptom Checklist for families and clinicians (available at LBDA website)Lewy Body Composite Risk Score — developed by Dr. Jim Galvin, University of MiamiPersevere Peer Mentor Program (Rush University)Learning Center (LBDA website)Webinars, handouts, and courses via LBDA’s Lewy Learning Center #LewyBodyDementia#MESHpodcast#DementiaAwareness#CaregiverSupport#MentalHealth#Alzheimers#BrainHealt#LBDA

    20 min
  5. Healing Strategies for Emotional Blindness

    2025-12-10

    Healing Strategies for Emotional Blindness

    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 conversation also touches on trauma, neurodivergence, and the importance of seeking help without stigma. Listeners will leave with a deeper understanding of emotional processing and actionable strategies to support themselves or loved ones. Topics Covered: What alexithymia is and how it manifestsEmotional awareness and emotional vocabularyNeurodivergence: autism, ADHD, and its relationship to alexithymiaImpact of emotional blindness in relationships and parentingThe role of trauma in developing alexithymiaGender and cultural aspects of emotional expressionCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and emotional wheelsSomatic therapies and mindfulnessTrauma-informed approaches in therapyPractical steps for supporting someone with emotional blindness Key Takeaways: Alexithymia is not a mental health disorder but a personality trait, often described as emotional blindness.Emotional blindness can develop as a survival strategy, particularly in traumatic or emotionally disconnected environments.Both neurodivergent individuals and those with trauma histories may be more likely to experience alexithymia.Emotional vocabulary can be strengthened; skills like identifying and naming emotions can be learned and mastered.CBT, emotional wheels, and somatic therapies are effective tools for building emotional awareness.Seeking therapy is not a sign of being "crazy"—it's a step towards better self-understanding and well-being.Grace, patience, and modeling emotional language can support loved ones struggling with emotional blindness.Trauma-informed care prioritizes the client’s needs and equips them with coping skills for triggers.The Six Best Quotes: "It's not a mental health disorder. It's really just an emotional processing kind of issue." –Tahara DeBarrows"Identifying emotions could be a skill. Meaning that it can be taught, it can be learned, it can be mastered." –Tahara DeBarrows"We go to medical doctors for physical symptoms... What's the difference with seeing a therapist for mental health issues?" –Tahara DeBarrows"The reality of it, usually we feel worse before we feel better when we start to uncover those feelings because we were so avoidant before. But there's hope." –Tahara DeBarrows"If you're the one in the relationship who knows how to identify their emotions, you can kind of model what you want that to look like." –Tahara DeBarrows"Trauma-informed means I'm just putting the client first... with a lot of grace and a lot of care for these individuals who've gone through a lot and have developed things like alexithymia." –Tahara DeBarrows Connect with the Guest: Website: ajourneytohealingcounseling.comEmail: info@ajourneytohealingcounseling.comBlog: Men with Alexithymia (find under Blogs section on the website) Resources List: A Journey to Healing Counseling –Tahara DeBarrows's practice (Connecticut & Florida)Blog: Men with AlexithymiaCBT Worksheets: Available under Services and Professional Development on ajourneytohealingcounseling.comEmotional Wheel: Search "emotional wheel" on Google for printable chartsSomatic therapies & mindfulness practices (referenced as body scanning and progressive muscle relaxation)For specific therapy and information, contact info@ajourneytohealingcounseling.com

    19 min
  6. Practical Parenting Tips for the Digital Age

    2025-12-03

    Practical Parenting Tips for the Digital Age

    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 and offerings of Parents Anonymous, and arms listeners with practical strategies to navigate children’s screen time while maintaining open, nurturing relationships. The episode wraps with guidance on where families can seek help and highlights the vital importance of connection, limits, and ongoing support. Topics Covered: What is clinical hypnotherapy (versus popular misconceptions)The holistic, multi-generational support model of Parents AnonymousThe impact and dangers of social media on children and teensSigns your child may be overusing or misusing social mediaSetting healthy boundaries around technology useThe links between family routines, chores, and long-term well-beingKey Takeaways: Clinical hypnotherapy is about gently accessing and addressing deep emotional triggers—not stage tricks.Parents Anonymous provides judgement-free, evidence-based support for all caregivers, not just biological parents.Children do best with clear, consistent limits—even if they resist them in the moment.Parents' own modeling and digital boundaries are just as important as rules they set for kids. Quotes: “If you don’t deal with what we call our basic underlying feelings, you’re really only moving on one level.” –Lisa Pion-Berlin“It is important to set limits around social media and modeling it yourself as a parent—many parents are addicted themselves.” –Lisa Pion-Berlin“If you’re on your phone, you’re not interacting with each other, you’re not interacting with your peers, you’re not interacting with your children, you’re disconnected.” –Lisa Pion-Berlin“Children have reported over and over again when they have limits, they feel safer and more confident.” –Lisa Pion-Berlin“You need to create these breaks so you can foster. I think kids today don’t even know how to interact with their peers, right?” –Lisa Pion-Berlin“No blame, no shame—any issue you have about yourself or any of the children or people in your life—the helpline is there.” –Lisa Pion-BerlinConnect with the Guest: Parents Anonymous Website: natlparentyouthhelpline.orgNational Parent & Youth Helpline (Call/Text): 855-427-2736Meditations and resources: Available on the website in English and SpanishNo specific social media handles or personal email were provided in the episode. Resources Mentioned: Parents Anonymous: natlparentyouthhelpline.orgNational Parent & Youth Helpline: 855-427-2736 (call or text, 24/7, 240 languages)Family support, evidence-based programs, and leadership training information via Parents Anonymous websiteMeditations and age-specific parenting resources (English, Spanish, 10+ languages): Parents Anonymous ResourcesNo books, other podcasts, specific courses, or YouTube channels were mentioned in this episode.

    22 min
  7. Navigating Conflict: Practical Family and Holiday Conversation Tips

    2025-11-26

    Navigating Conflict: Practical Family and Holiday Conversation Tips

    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, remaining connected, and fostering brave, productive dialogue. The episode covers ways to navigate emotional triggers, establish healthy guidelines, and utilize mediation—even outside formal settings. Pamela Brewer and Nicholas Schmitt unpack what it means to approach conflicts with empathy and mindfulness, empowering listeners to engage more constructively year-round. Topics Covered Setting boundaries before gatheringsManaging triggering topics during family or social eventsExiting conversations respectfully and maintaining connection Key Takeaways Most political and emotional disagreements stem from underlying shared values, but different reasoning.Setting boundaries and having prepared phrases help prevent conversations from going awry.Hosts can bring structure to gatherings by creating spaces for challenging discussions and reminding participants of guidelines.It’s okay to exit a stressful conversation and prioritize your wellbeing without blaming others. Top Quotes “We operate from a space of intuitive values, and then we search for reasons from there for why we have those values.” — Nicholas Schmitt“Come up with maybe some boundary phrases, so you're not hit by surprise and your brain goes blank when that topic comes up.” — Nicholas Schmitt“There's no better way to break connection with another person than to say, ‘You are the problem and you are the reason we're breaking connection.’” — Nicholas Schmitt Connect with the Guest Website: mediatenyc.orgEmail: nschmitt@mediatenyc.orgPhone: 718-523-6868 Resources List Community Mediation Services: mediatenyc.orgContact: nschmitt@mediatenyc.org, 718-523-6868Mediation referral information (for nationwide options): Reach out to Community Mediation Services or visit their website for help finding local organizationsTraining courses offered: Conflict resolution skills, positive communication, initial mediation training (inquire via website or contact info above)

    21 min
  8. The Overlooked Connections Between Domestic Violence and Mass Shootings on M.E.S.H.

    2025-11-19

    The Overlooked Connections Between Domestic Violence and Mass Shootings on M.E.S.H.

    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 explores societal blind spots, victim blaming, obstacles to reporting, and the critical importance of community awareness and support.  Topics Covered: Jo Scott-CoeThe relationship between domestic violence and mass shootingsThe obstacles victims face when seeking helpSocietal perceptions and misconceptions about mass shooters“Why didn’t she just leave?” — The realities of escaping abuseRecognizing signs of abuse in friends, family, or colleaguesHow to responsibly and supportively help someone you suspect is being abusedResources for survivors and supportersKey Takeaways: Mass shooting events have often been preceded by  histories of domestic violence; estimates indicate up to 70% of public mass shootings display this pattern.Victims are frequently blamed and face significant barriers when trying to report or seek help, both from family and institutions."Just leaving" an abusive relationship is not simple—leaving can be the most dangerous time for victims, compounded by legal and societal obstacles.Survivors' lived expertise should be central in conversations about intervention and prevention.Allies should focus on listening without judgment, being ready with resources, and supporting the individual’s readiness and choices.Resources and hotlines exist, and knowing how to access or share them can be life-saving. Six Best Quotes: “That mass shooting is a culmination rather than a first strike.” –Jo Scott-Coe“The expertise of survivors has to be central.” –Jo Scott-Coe“The only way I know how to assert myself is to dominate—those cultural messages seem to be the common territory.” –Jo Scott-Coe“Just leave—it’s so interesting… we’ve learned in the last 60 years that leaving is the most dangerous time for a survivor.” –Jo Scott-Coe“Trying to unpack the experiences with someone who is a friend, without judgement… is important.” –Jo Scott-Coe“You deserve better. This is not your fault. There are friends for you, and you deserve to find them.” –Jo Scott-CoeConnect with the Guest: Jo Scott-Coe webpage: https://www.joscottcoe.com"Unheard Witness" via University of Texas Press: https://utpress.utexas.edu(Special promotion code: UTX K LW for a 40% discount at time of recording)Twitter: https://twitter.com/joscottcoeResources List: Books: "Mass: A Sniper, a Father, and a Priest" by Jo Scott-Coe"Unheard Witness" by Jo Scott-Coe (Univ. of Texas Press)Organizations & Websites:National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV): https://ncadv.orgLocal domestic violence shelters and hotlines (check your local listings)Note: Many domestic violence support sites include a quick-escape feature for safety.Legal and Advocacy Advances:Ongoing international discussions about criminalizing coercive control (noted: UK, Australia, New Zealand)Activists Mentioned:Mildred Muhammad (advocate, survivor of D.C. sniper violence)

    20 min
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Where your Mental, Emotion, and Social Health is always on the agenda!

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  • Creator
    Dr. Pamela Brewer
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Dr. Pamela Brewer
  • Show Website
    M.E.S.H.