Silence The Shame podcast

ShantiDas
  • 4.8 (51)
  • HEALTH & FITNESS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Podcast by ShantiDas

  1. 5D AGO

    STS Podcast: When the Call Comes Home - A Widow’s Story of Trauma, Faith, and Recovery

    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 parenting a young child 2. How depression, faith, stigma, and support systems all showed up in her mental health journey 3. The gaps in support for law enforcement families then, and what meaningful wellness and grief support should look like now 4. Practical guidance for spouses and families of first responders on protecting their own mental health Whether you’re a first responder, a spouse or partner, a surviving family member, or someone who cares about the people behind the badge, this episode offers honesty, compassion, and hope. 🧠 If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. Reach out to a trusted friend, a mental health professional, or call/text your local crisis line. CALL | TEXT | CHAT 988 in the U.S. 🔔 Subscribe to Silence the Shame for more real conversations on mental health, healing, and hope. 👍 Like, comment, and share this episode to help us break the silence and end the stigma—especially for first responder families. 📌 Follow Silence the Shame: Instagram: @silencetheshame LinkedIn: Silence the Shame Facebook: Silence the Shame Website: www.silencetheshame.com #SilenceTheShame #MentalHealthMatters #FirstResponders #LawEnforcement #PoliceFamilies #GriefJourney #KeshaJohnson #ShantiDas #Podcast

    30 min

  2. FEB 25

    STS Podcast: From Silence to Support - Major Fred Watson on Law Enforcement Mental Health

    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 communities 3. Why stigma and culture still keep many in uniform from asking for help 4. The role of leadership, policy, and peer support in changing the system 5. What real mental health support for first responders should look like Whether you’re in law enforcement, a first responder, a family member, or a concerned community member, this episode offers insight, compassion, and real solutions. 🧠 If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. Reach out to a trusted friend, a mental health professional, or call/text your local crisis line. CALL | TEXT | CHAT 988! 🔔 Subscribe to Silence the Shame for more real conversations on mental health, healing, and hope. 👍 Like, comment, and share this episode to help us break the silence and end the stigma. 📌 Follow Silence the Shame: Instagram: @silencetheshame LinkedIn: Silence the Shame Facebook: Silence the Shame Website: www.silencetheshame.com #SilenceTheShame #MentalHealthMatters #FirstResponders #LawEnforcement #FredWatson #ShantiDas #Podcast

    38 min

  3. FEB 11

    STS Podcast: Beyond the Badge - Mental Health, Trauma & Healing for First Responders

    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 lead to anxiety, depression, PTSD, burnout, substance use, and strained relationships. Dr. Moore also shares what’s working on the ground right now to better support first responders and why prevention, early intervention, and culture change are critical. Whether you’re a first responder, love someone who is, or simply want to better understand what our frontline heroes carry, this conversation will inform, validate, and inspire you. In this episode, you’ll learn: 1. The unique mental health challenges first responders face that most people never see 2. How repeated trauma and “tough it out” culture impact the brain, body, and relationships 3. Why stigma and silence keep so many first responders from asking for help 4. Practical self-care and coping strategies first responders can use right now 5. How leaders and departments can create safer, more supportive environments 6. Signs it’s time to reach out for professional mental health support Key Takeaways: 1. You can’t pour from an empty cup: mental health care is part of the job, not extra. 2. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. 3. Small, consistent self-care habits can reduce burnout and secondary trauma. 4. Departments and communities must share responsibility for supporting those who serve. If this episode resonates with you, please like, comment, and share to help us continue to break the silence and the stigma around mental health. 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on mental wellness and healing. 💬 Drop a comment: What’s one thing you wish more people understood about first responder mental health? #SilenceTheShame #FirstResponders #MentalHealth #PTSD #TraumaInformedCare

    36 min

  4. 05/14/2025

    STS Youth Advisory Council Podcast - Healing Connections Series (Part Three)

    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 discuss the importance of following up and maintaining long-term relationships for mental health. This episode highlights testimonials about lasting mentorships and friendships. Tune in to be educated, inspired, and connected to practical mental health resources and peer support strategies. Don’t miss the start of this important three-part series! Thank you to our speakers: Omoteleola "Tele" Joshua - Moderator Kayla Pierce - Guest Speaker Produced by: @SpellzProductionsLLC ​

    12 min

  5. 05/14/2025

    STS Youth Advisory Council Podcast - Healing Connections Series (Part Two)

    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 support friends, peers, and family members. This episode features youth advocacy stories and step-by-step guidance on offering nonjudgmental support during tough times. Tune in to be educated, inspired, and connected to practical mental health resources and peer support strategies. Don’t miss the start of this important three-part series! Thank you to our speakers: Savannah Elahee - Moderator Bre’Asia Williams - Guest Speaker Produced by: @SpellzProductionsLLC ​

    10 min

  6. 05/14/2025

    STS Youth Advisory Council Podcast - Healing Connections Series (Part One)

    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 importance of normalizing conversations around mental health and tackling stigma head-on. You'll hear powerful personal stories from youth in underserved communities, along with expert advice on building self-awareness and recognizing emotions. Tune in to be educated, inspired, and connected to practical mental health resources and peer support strategies. Don’t miss the start of this important three-part series! Thank you to our speakers: Elle Newbury - Moderator Savannah Elehee - Guest Speaker Produced by: @SpellzProductionsLLC ​

    9 min

  7. 05/02/2025

    STS Podcast x STSU Let’s Unpack Series PART THREE - Relationships in College

    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 William Cox leading us through a conversation with Ca'Miyah King (Spelman Student) and Aria Armstead (Spelman Student). Together, they explore the challenges and dynamics of dating in college, focusing on balancing relationships with personal goals, the risks of hookup culture, recognizing red flags, and the importance of mental health in maintaining healthy relationships. It also emphasizes the need for self-awareness, setting boundaries, and seeking support when navigating romantic connections. Key themes in this episode: 1.College relationships require balancing personal goals and love lives. Hookup culture can lead to unfulfilling experiences, especially if individuals haven't healed from past relationships. 2. It's important to prioritize personal happiness and recognize red flags like poor communication. Setting clear boundaries from the start is essential. 3. Mental health plays a major role in relationships. Setting boundaries, recognizing triggers, and seeking support through therapy are crucial for healthy partnerships. Check out more about Silence the Shame University and how to get involved by visiting www.silencetheshame.com. Special Thanks to our funders, the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD), and to our partners Boss Studios for hosting us. Produced by Spellz Productions

    39 min

  8. 05/02/2025

    STS Podcast x STSU Let’s Unpack Series PART TWO - Black Men & Mental Health

    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 Miles Kilpatrick and Aaniya Riddick leading us through a conversation with Mark Torphy (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist) and Nick Farthing (Silence the Shame Program Manager). Together, they explored the stigma Black men face, the common “I’m good” defense mechanism, and the urgent need for safe, judgment-free spaces to express emotion. Key themes in this episode: 1. Black men need safe, supportive environments to express emotions and break the “I’m good” mindset. 2. Therapy helps, but so do community, self-care, and meaningful connections. 3. Talking openly about therapy reduces stigma and encourages others to seek help. Check out more about Silence the Shame University and how to get involved by visiting www.silencetheshame.com. Special Thanks to our funders, the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD), and to our partners Boss Studios for hosting us. Produced by Spellz Productions

    36 min
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4.8
out of 5
51 Ratings

About

Podcast by ShantiDas

Information

  • Creator
    ShantiDas
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    99
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    Silence The Shame podcast