Candid Minds with Dr. T and Friends

Mindful Care
  • 2.3 (3)
  • Self-Improvement

Candid Minds with Dr. T and Friends is a podcast by Mindful Care that explores mental health through culture, science, current events, and lived experience. Hosted by Dr. Tamir Aldad, Addiction Psychiatrist and Founder and CEO of Mindful Care, the show blends clinical insight with open conversation. Every episode is curious, candid, and rooted in the idea that mental health is connected to everything.

  1. Speed, Substance, and Second Chances with Jesse T. Usher

    Jul 1

    Speed, Substance, and Second Chances with Jesse T. Usher

    What can a superhero struggling with addiction teach us about the very real consequences of substance use, identity, and second chances?  In this episode of Candid Minds with Dr. T & Friends, addiction psychiatrist Dr. Tamir Aldad sits down with actor Jessie T. Usher, best known for playing A-Train in Amazon Prime's The Boys, for an honest conversation that goes far beyond Hollywood.  Jessie reflects on graduating high school at just 15, the work ethic his parents instilled in him, and the discipline that helped launch his career. He also opens up about navigating the inevitable highs and lows of the entertainment industry, staying grounded through uncertainty, and why breaking big goals into small, daily steps has been one of the keys to his success.  Together, Dr. Aldad and Jessie explore how A-Train's battle with performance-enhancing substances mirrors real-world addiction, loss of control, and recovery. They discuss why these stories resonate so deeply with audiences and how entertainment can spark meaningful conversations about mental health.  The conversation also touches on fatherhood, finding purpose beyond fame, and what's next as Jessie looks toward creating original projects and taking on more challenging roles.  Whether you're a fan of The Boys, interested in mental health, or simply looking for an inspiring conversation about resilience and growth, this episode offers a thoughtful look at what it means to keep moving forward.    Follow Dr. T on social media: @drtamiraldad     Follow Jessie T. Usher on social media: @jessietusher

    31 min
  2. Reza Farahan on Fame, Identity & Memoirs of a Gay Shah | Candid Minds

    Jun 17

    Reza Farahan on Fame, Identity & Memoirs of a Gay Shah | Candid Minds

    What happens when you stop trying to fit in and start embracing exactly who you are?  On this episode of Candid Minds with Dr. T and Friends, host and addiction psychiatrist Dr. Tamir Aldad is joined by co-host and licensed therapist Jacquelyn Gilde for a candid conversation with reality television personality, entrepreneur, and author Reza Farahan.  Best known for Shahs of Sunset, Reza opens up about growing up as a gay man with Jewish and Muslim family roots, overcoming shame, navigating fame, and the experiences that inspired his memoir, Memoirs of a Gay Shah. He discusses the impact of therapy, the power of self-belief, life in the public eye, and how he learned to stay resilient in the face of criticism and adversity.  Together, they explore identity, self-acceptance, mental health, reality television, and why the story we tell ourselves can shape the life we create.  Purchase Reza's book, Memoirs of a Gay Shah: My Story of Family, Fame, and Becoming a King: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1464218277  Follow Reza Farahan: @rezafarahan  Follow Dr. Tamir Aldad: @drtamiraldad  Subscribe to Candid Minds with Dr. T and Friends on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

    51 min
  3. Reality TV Villains, Family Legacies, & Finding Zen | Karen Gravano & Ramona Rizzo on Candid Minds

    Jun 3

    Reality TV Villains, Family Legacies, & Finding Zen | Karen Gravano & Ramona Rizzo on Candid Minds

    What is the real cost of growing up in the shadow of a notorious family legacy?  Host and addiction psychiatrist Dr. Tamir Aldad (Dr. T) sits down with Karen Gravano and Ramona Rizzo, former stars of the hit reality series Mob Wives, for a candid exploration of identity, trauma, and the search for normalcy after the cameras stop rolling.  For years, the world saw Karen and Ramona through the distorted lens of reality TV. They reveal that the medium is heavily edited to create villain personas and fuel conflict for entertainment. In this episode, they pull back the curtain on the intense pressure of being under a constant public microscope and the profound relief that comes with living a life off screen.  Karen speaks openly about the heavy burden of her father’s (Sammy "The Bull" Gravano) reputation and the surreal experience of balancing his role as a loving parent with his involvement in the criminal world. Together, they discuss the fierce moves they made to protect the next generation, ensuring their children pursued professional careers in finance and wellness far away from the mob label.  The conversation also highlights their personal evolution and current ventures. Ramona shares her journey with Spiritual Slinger, using meditation and candles to manage chronic pain, while Karen discusses her success as a licensed esthetician and partner in The Body Depot.  From the realism of The Sopranos to the intersection of faith and judgment, this is an honest conversation about moving past a traumatic upbringing to find peace, purpose, and a new identity on your own terms.  Follow us on Social Media:  Dr. T: @drtamiraldad    Candid Minds podcast: @candidmindswithdrt     Connect with our guests:   Karen Gravano: @karengravano   Ramona Rizzo: @ramonarizzo

    43 min
  4. Inside the Mental Health Crisis Facing Law Enforcement | NYSPIA President Kurt Labuda on Candid Minds

    May 27

    Inside the Mental Health Crisis Facing Law Enforcement | NYSPIA President Kurt Labuda on Candid Minds

    What happens when police officers become the first responders to mental health crises?  Host and addiction psychiatrist Dr. Tamir Aldad (Dr. T) sits down with Kurt Labuda, President of the New York State Police Investigators Association and a 20-year state police and Army veteran, for a raw conversation about the realities officers face every day on the road.  From domestic disputes and psychotic breaks to addiction, trauma, and community distrust, President Labuda shares what it’s really like responding to people in crisis while balancing safety, empathy, and limited mental health resources. The discussion explores the growing pressure placed on law enforcement to act as counselors, the emotional toll the job takes on officers, and why better collaboration between clinicians, EMS, and police could change outcomes for everyone involved.  Together, Dr. T and President Labuda tackle the stigma around mental health in law enforcement, the alarming suicide statistics affecting officers, and the urgent need for better training, transparency, and support systems on both sides of the badge.  This is an honest conversation about trauma, trust, crisis response, and the human side of policing.

    31 min
  5. From Justin Bieber's 'Baby' Video to Fame, Abuse & Motherhood | Jasmine V on Candid Minds

    May 20

    From Justin Bieber's 'Baby' Video to Fame, Abuse & Motherhood | Jasmine V on Candid Minds

    Jasmine V joins Dr. Tamir Aldad for a raw and emotional conversation about fame, trauma, healing, and motherhood. She opens up about growing up in the entertainment industry, surviving an abusive relationship, finding strength through therapy, and using her voice to help others. The episode explores resilience, mental health, parenting, and the lessons Jasmine has learned through every stage of her journey. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse or domestic violence, confidential support is available 24/7 through the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Call 800-799-SAFE (7233)Text START to 88788Visit www.thehotline.org

    39 min

  6. Apr 15

    Boundaries Gone Too Far? Work, Entitlement & Finding Balance Across Generations | Jackie Gilde

    In this episode of Candid Minds with Dr. T, Dr. Tamir Aldad sits down with Jackie Gilde to explore the evolving role of boundaries in today’s culture and whether they’re always helping us grow. As conversations around mental health and self-respect become more mainstream, boundary-setting has become a widely encouraged practice. But has the pendulum swung too far? Together, they break down the generational contrast: • Why older generations often prioritized hard work, sacrifice, and “going the extra mile”• How younger generations are redefining work-life balance and personal limits• When boundaries serve as healthy protection and when they may limit opportunity or growth• The tension between personal standards and professional expectations• How to find a balanced, sustainable approach to boundaries in both work and life This episode offers a nuanced perspective on a highly relevant topic, challenging listeners to think more deeply about when to hold the line and when to lean in. If you’re looking for mental health support, Mindful Care is here to help. Learn more or schedule an appointment here: https://mindful.care/?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=Podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast&utm_id=Podcast&utm_term=Candid+Minds

    21 min

  7. Apr 1

    You Are Not Your Diagnosis: Reclaiming Identity & Empowerment in Mental Health | Jackie Gilde

    In this episode of Candid Minds with Dr. T, Dr. Tamir Aldad is joined by licensed clinical social worker Jackie Gilde to explore a powerful and often overlooked topic, the relationship between mental health and identity. Together, they break down how individuals can begin to identify with their diagnosis, and why that can become a dangerous trap. From depression and anxiety to chronic mental health conditions, they discuss how treatment while necessary can sometimes unintentionally consume a person’s sense of self. Jackie and Dr. T dive into why identifying with your diagnosis can hold you back, how treatment should support your life, not become your life, and the role clinicians, families, and society play in reinforcing labels. They also explore how empowerment, accountability, and strong support systems can help individuals reclaim their identity and build a life beyond their diagnosis. If you’re looking for mental health support, Mindful Care is here to help. Learn more or schedule an appointment here: https://mindful.care/?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=Podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast&utm_id=Podcast&utm_term=Candid+Minds

    19 min

  8. Mar 11

    The Hidden Pressure of High Performers: MMA, Steroids, Ego & Imposter Syndrome | Eric Prush

    In this episode of Candid Minds with Dr. T, Dr. Tamir Aldad sits down with Eric Prush — strength and conditioning coach, martial artist, and combat sports expert — to explore the psychological realities behind high-level competition. Together they dive into the hidden pressures athletes face, from imposter syndrome and relentless ambition to the culture surrounding performance-enhancing drugs in combat sports. Eric shares firsthand insight from years of training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and powerlifting, including the mindset required to compete, the ego that fuels performance, and the toll that constant pressure can take on identity and mental health. Dr. T also breaks down the psychiatric side of performance-enhancing drugs, including how they affect dopamine, mood stability, and long-term mental health. This conversation goes far beyond sports — touching on self-worth, ambition, ego, resilience, and what it really means to succeed without losing yourself in the process. If you’re looking for mental health support, Mindful Care is here to help. Learn more or schedule an appointment here: Mental Health Appointment

    29 min
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Ratings & Reviews

2.3
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Candid Minds with Dr. T and Friends is a podcast by Mindful Care that explores mental health through culture, science, current events, and lived experience. Hosted by Dr. Tamir Aldad, Addiction Psychiatrist and Founder and CEO of Mindful Care, the show blends clinical insight with open conversation. Every episode is curious, candid, and rooted in the idea that mental health is connected to everything.

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