M.E.S.H.

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

  1. The Real Cost of Silence: Why Deep Listening Matters More Than Ever

    9 HRS AGO

    The Real Cost of Silence: Why Deep Listening Matters More Than Ever

    Topics Covered:The origins and misunderstandings about DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion)The behavioral focus versus identity politics in DEI workLiberatory practice: its meaning, who it serves, and its impact on leadershipThe vital importance of deep listening in healing and workplace transformationEmbracing and honoring multiple identities within groups (Jewish diversity, intersectionality)Creating inclusive environments and measuring true freedom and resilienceProfessional development with a focus on liberatory practice for leaders and organizationsPrograms at Dimensions Consulting and who they serve (women, men, leaders of all backgrounds)The courage to share resources vs. the fear that restricts opportunity Key Takeaways:DEI is about collective humanity, not just categories; it seeks to create conditions where everyone can thrive and exercise choice.Real change happens through listening to personal experiences and being accountable for one’s behavior to improve outcomes for all.Liberatory practice offers a model for freedom and resilience, helping individuals and organizations move beyond survival to truly thriving.Inclusion and equity benefit everyone, but this work requires readiness and honest engagement—not performative participation.Every community holds diversity within it; seeing these dimensions allows for broader, deeper, and more compassionate leadership.Sharing stories and deep listening can lead to healing, increased leadership capacity, and authentic inclusion. Quotes:“If we really want to track and chart the experience of equity, you have to ask people and listen hard for what they're saying they have experienced, and then see yourself as accountable in your behavior to start doing, stop doing, or do something differently…” –Yavilah McCoy“The condition of relationship is already there. What kinds of relationships we want to have bring us into the realm of choice and into the realm of behaviors.” –Yavilah McCoy“When we bring the concept of pain into the equation, often the very first thing that we do is we stop listening... But the truth is, if you want to be in a relationship that holds the elevation of your humanity, we've got to be able to listen for both.” –Yavilah McCoy“Every group of people has diversity. If I were to talk about the dimensions of our humanity, one person would be many things at once.” –Yavilah McCoy“It is my legacy and birthright not just to survive my life, but to thrive in it… to believe that if I never did another thing, that value, that beauty, that essence… remains intact.” –Yavilah McCoy Connect with the Guest:Website: www.dimensionsedc.com Resources List:Dimensions Consulting: www.dimensionsedc.com30 Day Liberatory Practice Challenge (series of videos and resources available on the Dimensions website)One-on-One consults and liberatory practice coaching (inquire via website)Programs for women leaders, women of color, and white women leaders (details at the Dimensions website) For more episodes and inspiring conversations, subscribe to M.E.S.H. wherever you get your podcasts!

    21 min
  2. Unapologetically Black and Jewish: Navigating Race, Faith, and Justice

    FEB 25

    Unapologetically Black and Jewish: Navigating Race, Faith, and Justice

    In this powerful episode of M.E.S.H., host Pamela Brewer welcomes Yavilah McCoy, a leader in equity strategies and organizational consulting, who shares her experience growing up as an unapologetically Black and Jewish woman. The conversation dives deep into racial and religious identity, intersectionality, and the challenges faced by Jews of color. Drawing on personal stories and insights, Yavilah McCoy discusses the importance of liberatory practice, collective care, and embracing the fullness of our identities within and beyond Jewish communities. Topics CoveredThe intersection of racial, religious, and cultural identitiesMyths and assumptions about Jews and Jewish identityWhite supremacy and its impact on Jewish communitiesPersonal stories of growing up Black and Jewish in BrooklynEducational experiences and advocating for inclusionLiberatory practice and resilience in marginalized spacesThe importance of “dimension” and intersectionalityCollective and self-care in activismCreating inclusive communities within and across identities Key TakeawaysRace is a social construct and should not define Jewish identity or humanity.Jews come from diverse backgrounds—racial, geographic, cultural, and economic.Intersectionality is a source of strength, not dilution, and allows one to show up authentically.Liberatory practice and resilience are essential to navigating oppressive systems.Collective care and self-care are vital, especially for Jews of color.Listening to and sharing the full story of our humanity is necessary for true equity.Creating dimension in identity helps avoid the erasure and marginalization caused by binaries.It’s not necessary to always be at the frontlines; activism should be a choice, not an obligation. Best Quotes“Mama Maya Angelou taught us that we often delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but we rarely admit the changes that it has gone through to achieve that beauty.”“If I were to snap my fingers and bring every Jew that exists across the globe into this room with us right now, we would look more like the United Nations than the United Nations itself.”“Race itself is a construction. Race does not describe our humanity in any way that's truly significant, except that race has been a tool of oppression…”“It is only in oppression that we have to live in binaries. If we look at any ism that's out there, you're going to find folks trying to tell you you're either or instead of this plus both and right.”“Just because you are living from a space of an intersectional identity does not mean you have to be the one to pick up the banner and be at the front. Right now, mostly I would say  what's important is self care and collective care.” Resources Listdimensionsedc.com #BlackJewish#Intersectionality#LiberatoryPractice#Equity#CollectiveCare#JewsofColor#CulturalDiversity#MESHpodcast If you want to learn more about the guest or explore resources mentioned, be sure to check out Dimensions Consulting online and share this episode with those seeking thoughtful, inclusive conversations about identity and justice.

    23 min
  3. Bipolar Disorder Myths Debunked: Real Stories of Recovery and Success

    FEB 18

    Bipolar Disorder Myths Debunked: Real Stories of Recovery and Success

    Topics CoveredStigma and myths surrounding bipolar disorder and mental illnessMarcia's experience as a therapist with bipolar disorderDiscrimination and shaming in the mental health professionEffects and management of medication for bipolar disorderPersonal and romantic relationships impacted by mental illnessWhat psychotic and manic episodes look likeAdvice for family and friends supporting someone with a mental illnessGuidance on discontinuing medication safelyResources for further support Quotes“My dream is for people to view people with a mental illness with the same kind of compassion, understanding, and respect that they would show to somebody with a physical illness.” —Marcia Naomi Berger“Once it got out that I had this mental illness, people were nasty, humiliating me. And you would think, why would these professional therapists be so lacking in compassion and understanding?” —Marcia Naomi Berger"I've been off...no medication, no therapy for bipolar disorder for, I don't know, something like 33 years." —Marcia Naomi Berger“You cannot expect someone to be reasonable if they're in a psychotic state. But you can still be compassionate and kind.” —Marcia Naomi Berger Connect with Marcia Naomi BergerWebsite: marriagemeetings.comBooks: "The Bipolar Therapist," "Marriage Meetings for Lasting Love"For book access: Find online, ask at your local bookstore, or check your library Resources ListBooks by Marcia Naomi Berger:The Bipolar TherapistMarriage Meetings for Lasting Love (also referenced at marriagemeetings.com)Mental Health Information:National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)Local therapists and psychiatrists (recommended for medication changes)Podcast:M.E.S.H. Podcast #MentalHealth#BipolarDisorder#StigmaFree#TherapistsTalk#MESHpodcast#Compassion#RecoveryJourney#MentalHealthAwareness Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share M.E.S.H. to help spread understanding and compassion for mental, emotional, and social health!

    22 min
  4. From Stroke to Strength: Building a Life of Care, Purpose, and Belonging

    FEB 11

    From Stroke to Strength: Building a Life of Care, Purpose, and Belonging

    In this powerful episode of M.E.S.H., host Pamela Brewer sits down with writer and stroke awareness advocate Joyce Sampson to discuss the often-overlooked realities of stroke, the importance of advocacy, and the lasting cognitive and emotional impacts that survivors can face. Joyce Sampson bravely shares her personal journey through seven strokes in two months, the challenges of recovery, the misconceptions people have about strokes, and her mission to educate both the public and medical professionals with her forthcoming book. With honesty and vulnerability, she highlights the need for community support, the pitfalls in the healthcare system, and how compassion can make all the difference. Topics Covered:The significance of FAST and BE FAST acronymsWhy stroke advocacy is still crucial despite widespread awareness campaignsThe disconnect between patient experiences and medical personnel understandingStrategies for self-advocacy and community educationThe emotional and social challenges stroke survivors faceThe limitations of well-intentioned but sometimes misguided support from friends and familyTips for family and friends on supporting loved ones after a stroke Key Takeaways:Stroke signs extend beyond the well-known FAST acronym—balance and eyesight matters too.Cognitive and sensory deficits after stroke can be nuanced and are often not explained to survivors.Recovery is uniquely personal, and survivors need understanding rather than comparisons or dismissals.Medical systems often overlook the real-world challenges stroke survivors face post-discharge.Family and friends are most helpful when they admit what they don’t know, listen, and proactively educate themselves.Taking the help that appears—whether from professionals or peers—is a crucial part of recovery and resilience. Resources Mentioned:American Heart Association: https://www.heart.orgCircle of Rights (Gaithersburg, MD): https://www.circleofrights.orgStroke Comeback Center (Virginia & Rockville, MD): https://www.strokecomebackcenter.org #StrokeAwareness#StrokeSurvivor#BEFAST#StrokeAdvocacy#CognitiveHealth#MESHpodcast#HealthEducation#InvisibleDisabilities Want more stories and conversations that impact your mental, emotional, and social health? Like, subscribe, and share—and don’t forget to join us for the next episode of M.E.S.H.!

    21 min
  5. Out and Supported: Real Talk for Anxious Parents and Brave Kids

    FEB 4

    Out and Supported: Real Talk for Anxious Parents and Brave Kids

    In this heartfelt and information-packed episode of M.E.S.H., host Pamela Brewer sits down with John Sovec, LMFT, author, and advocate, whose book "Out: A Parent’s Guide to Supporting Your LGBTQIA+ Kid through Coming Out and Beyond" is helping parents and families support LGBTQIA+ youth. They discuss the unique challenges that queer children and their families face during the coming out process—especially in today’s social climate—and offer concrete advice for building trust, ensuring safety, and creating open conversations rooted in love and understanding. Topics Covered Understanding the LGBTQIA+ acronymThe emotional journey of coming out for kids and familiesA three-step process for LGBTQIA+: introspection, identification, integrationNavigating safety concerns in today’s social and political environmentCreating supportive communities for children and parentsKey Takeaways The foundation of supporting a child coming out is unconditional love and acceptance.Coming out is a lifelong, often ongoing process that requires support on both individual and family levels.Building safe and open communication within the family is crucial, especially regarding safety, acceptance, and finding community.Parents struggling to accept their child’s identity are encouraged to look inward and ask “What does love look like?”Coming out, if delayed due to family unsupportiveness, can lead to greater life challenges later, but authenticity is always possible and valuable.Community connections and local support are powerful resources in navigating big-picture fears.Six Best Quotes “When your kid comes to you... the most important thing you can do as a parent in that moment is to open your arms wide, hug your child close, and tell them that you love them.” John Sovec“Coming out is actually a lifelong process... it is ongoing. There are times where it’s safer and easier... there are other times when it is not a friendly environment.” —John Sovec“You signed a contract that you were going to be with [your child] for a lifetime.” John Sovec“If we can learn to talk more openly, more freely, more easily about this part of the human experience, we can make it such a supportive thing for everybody.” —John Sovec“Listen to [your child] as well. It may be too painful for them to try and hide and disguise who they are. You are going to have to work together as a family to create issues of safety.” —John Sovec“Find people that you can talk openly with... create a community of care around your family and around your child who is coming out.” —John Sovec Connect with the Guest: John Sovec Website: johnsovec.comSecondary resource site: gayteentherapy.comResources List Book: Out: A Parent’s Guide to Supporting Your LGBTQIA+ Kid through Coming Out and Beyond byJohn Sovec Available via major online retailers and to order through local bookstores.johnsovec.com —gayteentherapy.com — Resources specifically tailored for supporting queer teens and their parents. #LGBTQ#LGBTQIA+#Parenting#ComingOut#QueerYouth#FamilySupport#MentalHealth#LoveIsLove#MESHpodcast For more insightful episodes, subscribe, share, and stay connected with M.E.S.H.

    21 min
  6. 16A Lewy Body Dementia: The Second Most Common Dementia You’ve Never Heard Of

    JAN 30 · BONUS

    16A 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
  7. Are You A Couple Living with ADHD?

    JAN 28

    Are You A Couple Living with ADHD?

    In this insightful episode of M.E.S.H., host Pamela Brewer welcomes Carolyn Angelo, LCSW and Director of the Adult ADHD Center of Washington, D.C. Together, they demystify adult ADHD—exploring what it really is, how it impacts both individuals and couples, and the often misunderstood dynamics that arise. Drawing on her professional expertise and personal experience with ADHD, Carolyn Angelo dives into stigma, shame, strategies for better communication, and how hope and healing are absolutely possible for couples affected by ADHD. Topics Covered Understanding Adult ADHD: What it is (And Isn’t!)How ADHD can manifest in couples and relationshipsTools and strategies for couples to thriveCommunication techniques: weekly “business meetings” and date nightsKey Takeaways Adult ADHD is real.ADHD may manifest as both distractibility and hyperfocus, complicating casual assumptions.Couples facing ADHD can fall into “parent-child” dynamics, leading to frustration and exhaustion.Shame and blame cycles are common but can be broken with understanding and intervention.Both partners need to participate in change, not just the one with ADHD.Helpful strategies include structured check-ins, open communication, and rekindling the strengths that attracted the couple in the first place.There is hope: with support, couples can rebuild understanding, connection, and resilience.Top Quotes“ADHD is not a deficit, but a deregulation in focus.” —Carolyn Angelo“Because some ADHD symptoms are not unique to ADHD... the non ADHD member of the couple can make judgments and assumptions that can challenge the couple connection.“Shame can be big problem for people with ADHD, especially if it hasn’t been diagnosed early.” —Carolyn Angelo“Convincing the non ADHDer that they need to participate in change is really the first step.” Carolyn Angelo Connect with the Guest Website: adultadhdcenterdc.comResources List Adult ADHD Center of Washington, D.C.: https://adultadhdcenterdc.comCouples Workshops and Coaching: Details found on the center’s websiteTop 10 Hashtags#ADHD#AdultADHD#ADHDInRelationships#ADHDamongcouples#ADHDcoaching#MentalHealth#CouplesTherapy#Neurodiversity#ShameAndBlame#MESHpodcast For more episodes on mental health and relationship topics, follow and subscribe to M.E.S.H. wherever you listen to podcasts!

    17 min
  8. Demystifying DBT, EMDR, and IFS

    JAN 21

    Demystifying DBT, EMDR, and IFS

    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, and highlights the importance of the therapeutic relationship in healing. Topics Covered: Defining trauma: big T vs. little T traumaEMDR: Eye Movement Desensitization and ReprocessingDBT: Dialectical Behavioral TherapyCBT: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy IFS: Internal Family SystemsThe crucial role of the therapist-client relationshipDemystifying mental health labels and diagnosesThe importance of feeling safe in therapyKey Takeaways: Trauma is highly individual and can be either acute or cumulative.EMDR, DBT, and IFS differ from traditional talk therapy, offering specialized, structured methods for treatment.EMDR is particularly effective for trauma and PTSD, DBT for borderline personality disorder (and more), and IFS for various issues including addiction, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.The fit between therapist and client is often more important than the specific modality chosen.One size does not fit all in therapy; exploring different approaches is valid and encouraged.Therapy is not about being "crazy"—it's about living fully as a human being.Six Best Quotes: “Trauma really is in the eye of the beholder. Trauma affects everyone differently.” –Stella Kimbrough“EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing... It helps us desensitize from traumatic memories using rapid eye movements.” –Stella Kimbrough“DBT is much more solution-focused, concrete, skills-based therapy.” –Stella Kimbrough“In IFS, it's not like everyone has multiple personalities... It's saying that everyone has multiple parts of themselves.” –Stella Kimbrough“The most important part of therapy is the relationship that you have with your therapist.” –Stella Kimbrough“None of this is about who's crazy and who's not. All of this is about how we live as human beings.” –Pamela BrewerConnect with the Guest: Website: calmpathway.comInstagram: @calmpathwayLinkedIn: Stella KimbroughResources List: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): EMDR InstituteDBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy): Behavioral TechCBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy): APA: CBTIFS (Internal Family Systems): IFS InstituteMarsha Linehan (DBT founder): WikipediaFrancine Shapiro (EMDR founder): WikipediaRichard Schwartz (IFS founder): IFS Institute – AboutM.E.S.H. Podcast: [Follow/Subscribe link placeholder]#TraumaTherapy #MentalHealthMatters #EMDR #DBT #IFS #Psychotherapy #TherapeuticRelationship #MESHPodcast For more episodes and information, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share M.E.S.H. with someone you care about!

    18 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
    29
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Dr. Pamela Brewer
  • Show Website
    M.E.S.H.