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.

4d ago

Ray J: Crash Outs & Comebacks | Candid Minds

Ray J joins Dr. Tamir Aldad for a raw and unfiltered conversation about mental health, identity, success, and the reality of living in the public eye. Ray J opens up about the distinction between his public persona and the person behind it, his self-described “crash out campaign,” and his ongoing battle with an addiction to doing outlandish things. He also discusses recent health scares, pushing himself harder than ever, and what happens when the pressure to prove yourself begins to take a toll. The conversation goes beyond the headlines as Ray J reflects on hitting rock bottom, his complicated relationship with success and money, fighting for what he believes is the truth, and the importance of knowing when to surround yourself with the right people. He also shares a more personal side of himself, including what he wants for his family and the relationships that matter most to him. It’s a candid look at the person behind Ray J and the mental and physical cost of constantly pushing forward. Follow Ray J: @rayj Follow Dr. Tamir Aldad: @drtamiraldad About Too Close for Comfort :In his new self-help book, Too Close for Comfort, Dr. Tamir Aldad explores what happens when caring for someone you love turns into carrying their emotional well-being. With practical strategies for setting healthy boundaries while maintaining compassion, the book offers a path forward for anyone navigating emotional dependency in a relationship. Available September 8. Pre-order now: Amazon: https://a.co/d/0hhbvnYG Or visit TamirAldadMD.com
Aug 14

Connor Tomlinson on Finding Purpose & Advocacy | Candid Minds

Join Dr. T for an inspiring episode of Candid Minds with Dr. T & Friends featuring fan favorite Connor Tomlinson and his mother, Lise Menard Smith, from Netflix's Love on the Spectrum. They're joined by Layla Luna, Founder and CEO of the nonprofit Just Bee, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorder and the broader neurodivergent community. Together, they explore life beyond reality television, the realities of navigating an autism diagnosis, and why advocacy matters now more than ever. Layla shares the powerful story behind Rio's Law, a groundbreaking identifier license plate initiative designed to help protect autistic and neurodivergent individuals during interactions with first responders. Connor discusses how he's using his platform to champion this legislation, embrace adulthood with confidence, and challenge the limitations society often places on neurodivergent individuals. From behind-the-scenes stories about Love on the Spectrum to honest conversations about childhood bullying, Connor's aspirations in acting, and the lessons he's learned along the way, this episode is filled with humor, vulnerability, and hope. Tune in for an unforgettable conversation about breaking stereotypes, discovering purpose, and creating a more inclusive world—one that celebrates strengths, embraces differences, and recognizes the limitless potential within every individual. Follow the Guests & Organization: Connor Tomlinson: @connortomlinson5 Lise Menard Smith: @connorsmom_lise Just Bee: @justbeethechange Dr. T: @drtamiraldad About Just Bee: Just Bee is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorder and the broader neurodivergent community. Learn more about Rio's Law and discover how you can support their grassroots mission. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review to help more people discover Candid Minds with Dr. T & Friends.
Jul 29

Martin Kove on Cobra Kai, Redemption & the Man Behind John Kreese | Candid Minds

In this episode of Candid Minds with Dr. T & Friends, Dr. Tamir Aldad welcomes Martin Kove, best known as John Kreese from The Karate Kid and Cobra Kai, for a conversation about the person behind the character. Martin reflects on decades in Hollywood, how he broke free from being typecast as the "tough guy," and why vulnerability has become the most meaningful part of his work. He shares what it was like returning to Kreese in Cobra Kai, the emotional toll of living in the "no mercy" mindset, and why redemption became such an important part of his character's journey. The conversation also explores discipline, fatherhood, mentorship, handling public mistakes, staying calm in moments of conflict, and the legacy Martin hopes to leave through his future projects. In this episode, we discuss: The evolution of John Kreese throughout Cobra Kai Why vulnerability became central to Martin's acting The psychology of playing intense, emotionally complex characters Discipline, resilience, and the role of perseverance in success Working alongside his son and passing on lessons learned His upcoming Western series, Tombstone prequel, and the Prodigal Son cigar brand Accountability, personal growth, and finding redemption on and off screen 🎙️ Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or watch the full episode on YouTube. Follow Martin Kove: @martinkove Follow Dr. T: @drtamiraldad
Jul 15

Sammy “The Bull” Gravano Talks to Psychiatrist | Candid Minds with Dr. T

What happens when one of the most notorious figures in Mafia history sits down with a psychiatrist? In this episode of Candid Minds with Dr. T & friends, Dr. Tamir Aldad is joined by Sammy "The Bull" Gravano and his son, Gerard, for a raw look at life inside and outside "the life". Sammy and Gerard dive deep into the intersection of organized crime and mental health, discussing how childhood struggles like undiagnosed dyslexia fueled a path toward violence. They share the psychological toll of the Mafia code, from becoming "numb" to violence to the life-altering impact of betrayal. In this episode, we discuss: Life in the Mob: Sammy’s perspective on the Mafia’s rules and how he eventually left the life after being betrayed by John Gotti. The Path to Redemption: Sammy’s journey toward becoming a born-again Christian and his commitment to being a "warrior for God". A New Legacy: The Gravano's current mission to use new technology and advocacy to help children with learning differences avoid the paths they once took. A Family’s Burden: Gerard Gravano on growing up in his father’s shadow, finding his own identity, and the ripple effects of his father's cooperation with the government. Follow Dr. T on social media: @drtamiraldad Follow Sammy “The Bull” on social media: @officialsammythebull Follow Gerard Gravano on social media: @gerardgravano
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
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.
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
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.

2.3

out of 5

3 Ratings

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.

Creator

Mindful Care
Years Active

2024 - 2026
Episodes

52
Rating

Explicit
Copyright

© Mindful Care
Show Website

Candid Minds with Dr. T and Friends