SpeakEZ Black Renaissance Podcast Qadry Harris, M. Div.

This is a powerful episode, hearing Salma’s story of growing up, I found myself in her story. This episode hits on a topic that is often not spoken about in black and brown communities, that is mental health and our overall care physical/spiritual care.

I also have grown up with and struggle with body/image issues and was overly sexualized from a young age. It was a tough, unending cycle of getting negative perceptions of self image from both sides (from inside and outside the home).

I definitely recommend this episode. Salma has a heartbreaking, but uplifting journey. It was absolutely eye opening to think of all the different ways our insecurities manifest themselves and how important it is to take care of our physical selves in order to take care our mental health as well.

This conversation is so necessary for the culture. Black Mental Health Matters! I really like how this episode introduces the mental health conversation and discusses Kanye West. I too am a fan and I feel the same way about how the media puts memes before meaning when it comes to ‘Ye or any other prominent, Black individual. It’s unfair to them and that’s why support is important. The prose were profound and even inspired me to prioritize my mental health as well. I appreciate this episode wholeheartedly. A Great Listen, Indeed!

This episode def hit home in so many ways. I appreciate Jim Streets for sharing his experiences! I can relate to the fear of loved ones not making it home from work but also the worry of those who are serving time. As a social worker/therapist I do think of how being in a “big box” affects both inmates and officers mental health. Haven’t figured out what changes can be made so that everyone benefits but it’s worth a discussion!