The Back to Me Podcast

Yoli Tamu
  • 5.0 (2)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Founder and CEO of The Back to Me Podcast (@thebacktomepodcast), Yoli Tamu (@yolitamuofficial) hosts this college-focused podcast inspired by college students across the nation. The Back to Me Podcast was created to answer many questions posed by college freshmen entering this new environment and college graduates heading out into a new world as young adults. Every week, students will be inspired and encouraged by self-affirming interviews and tips to succeed in college and in a career they love.

  1. 195. Building Resilience, Joy and Leadership with Kwyn Townsend Riley

    5D AGO

    195. Building Resilience, Joy and Leadership with Kwyn Townsend Riley

    As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to take inventory of our inner strength as we prepare to navigate societal challenges with resilience and joy! In the first episode of our new series, “Owning Your Strength,” we are joined by Kwynn Townsend Riley, Director of the Office of Black Student Services at Loyola Marymount University. This award-winning poet, author and first-generation graduate shares how overcoming doubt and honoring her inner strength helped her forge an authentic community, nurture Black student pride, and support social justice on campus. Through her own poetry, cultural events and programs like the Umoja Alliance and The Learning Community, Kwyn reminds students they are not invisible and that joy and resilience are acts of resistance. In this dream job, find out how she encourages students to believe in their unique power, and lead by being their best, irreplaceable selves. Kwyn completed her M.S. in College Student Personnel from Western Illinois University, and she received her Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the University of Dayton in Dayton, Ohio. This proud Southside Chicagoan is an interdisciplinary scholar-practitioner and artist. As a Black Queer Feminist, she envisions a world where we all are free. Kwyn is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, BYP100 (Black Youth Project 100), Chicago Scholars Associate Board and serves on the PAN Directorate Board for ACPA (American College Personnel Association). She is a decorated slam poet, author of two books of poetry and an award winning poetry album recipient. Kwyn has been recognized by CBS as a “history-maker” for her social justice work and organizing. She intends to help students, community and others to ignite a brighter world. To learn more about Kwyn and her work, visit her website at Kwynelizabeth.com or connect with her on LinkedIn.

    25 min
  2. 194. Breaking Barriers and Building Futures with Rwanda Carter

    OCT 22

    194. Breaking Barriers and Building Futures with Rwanda Carter

    This week for our “Ready, Set, Leap” series, our host and founder, Yoli Tamu welcomes the very student who first inspired her to begin serving college students years ago! In this episode, we meet Rwanda Carter, ASW, PPSC, Psychiatric Social Worker for LAUSD’s Black Student Achievement Plan (BSAP). Born in Belize and raised in Watts, Rwanda shares how her parents’ sacrifices inspired her to uplift her community, build belonging, and lead with purpose. She recalls finding her voice through campus organizations like the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) and the Summer Engineering Experience for Kids (SEEK)—programs that nurtured her drive to serve others. Now, as a mentor and advocate, Rwanda has come full circle, creating opportunities for high school students to experience growth, community wellness, and college exploration. Her powerful journey proves that when you invest in underserved communities, the results ripple across generations. Rwanda completed both her Master of Social Work and her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at California State University, Fullerton. She is a dedicated social worker committed to uplifting and serving communities with limited access to mental health resources. As the BSAP Psychiatric Social Worker, she promotes mental wellness among historically underserved students through representation, advocacy, and culturally responsive care. Her work centers on reducing stigma, expanding access to mental health services, and empowering Black youth through trauma-informed and identity-affirming interventions. By collaborating with educators, families, and community partners, Rwanda helps create safe, inclusive environments where students feel seen, heard, and supported. Her long-term goal is to influence mental health policy to expand equitable access to care and address systemic barriers impacting marginalized populations. To learn more about Rwanda and her work, visit her at LAUSD.org or connect with her on LinkedIn.

    29 min
  3. 193. Be, Do, Have: Unlocking Your Feminine & Masculine Energy Balance with Dr Zerri Gross

    OCT 15

    193. Be, Do, Have: Unlocking Your Feminine & Masculine Energy Balance with Dr Zerri Gross

    As part of our ‘Ready, Set, Leap’ series, we welcome back Feminine Energy Therapist and Master Energy Healing Yogi, Dr. Zerri Gross. In this week’s episode, Dr. Z reveals how to identify and balance your feminine and masculine energies to boost both self-awareness and social awareness. Discover how masculine energy—driven by production, action, and survival—helps you get things done, while feminine energy—rooted in presence, alignment, and supportive connection—encourages you to slow down, see the bigger picture, and grow sustainably. Learn why vulnerability is one of your greatest strengths and how embracing the “Be-Do-Have” mindset can elevate your planning, productivity, and personal development. Get ready to explore how to balance productivity with mindfulness so you can approach your academics, your relationships, and your goals from a place of true empowerment. Dr. Z completed her Doctorate of Education in Counseling Psychology and her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Argosy University. She also received her MA in Marriage and Family Therapy at University of Phoenix, Southern California Campus. Dr. Z is a 3x International Best-Selling Author, Speaker, and Retired Veteran but at her core, she’s a passionate advocate for helping women reclaim their power, embody their femininity, and create a holistically balanced life. As the founder of Greater Self LLC (a holistic wellness company) and Greater Self Therapy (a private psychotherapy practice), Dr. Z blends traditional therapy, alternative healing, and embodiment practices to support women, leaders, healers, and creatives in releasing overwhelm, perfectionism, compassion fatigue, and trauma responses.With over a decade as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, she specializes in feminine energy healing, yoga, and somatic-based therapy, bridging the gap between mental health and holistic self-care. She is trauma-informed, Reiki-trained, and holds certifications in Hatha, Vinyasa Flow, Yin, and Restorative yoga guiding others to reconnect with their bodies, release emotional weight, and step into the flow of empowered femininity. To learn more about Dr. Z, connect with her on IG @greaterself_dr.z or visit her website at GreaterSelf.org to get your FREE guide to unlock the power of self love.

    25 min
  4. 192. Gone Away: Embracing Your Next Chapter with Yoli Tamu

    OCT 8

    192. Gone Away: Embracing Your Next Chapter with Yoli Tamu

    This month, we introduce our ‘Ready, Set, Leap’ Series! Dr. Brunson from Spelman College opened the series with an inspiring episode for future educators. In this week’s episode, our founder and host, Yoli Tamu challenges us to embrace change and take bolder risks as we step into the next chapter with faith and intention. Quiet the inner critic, strengthen your focus, and build the resilience needed to rise when our principles and character are being tested. Yoli shares five powerful ways to move beyond comfort zones, prepare for the inevitable curveballs, and turn stumbles into opportunities to grow. Yoli completed her M.Ed. in Cross-Cultural Teaching at National University, and received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre at Howard University in Washington, DC. She has fused her thirst for creativity and entrepreneurship with 25 years as a resolute educator/motivator, podcast host, speaker, author, and recording artist. In August 2020, Yoil created The Back to Me Podcast: College and Beyond-a weekly podcast that she also hosts and serves as Executive Producer. In her weekly thirty-minute shows, Yoli seamlessly shares enlightening, engaging, and entertaining conversations that feature monthly themes and a wide array of special guests from different social classes and professions. Her arsenal of talents also includes developing a professional career as a songwriter/singer, live performer, independently publishing a book as an author, and working as a Social Emotional Learning (SEL) coach. To learn more about Yoli’s college journey, check out her self-published book, “Back to Me: A Devotional Walk for the College Freshman Woman” and visit our website at TheBacktoMePodcast.com.

    18 min
  5. 191. Leaping into Justice: Empowering Future Educators to Transform Schools with Dr. Fatima Brunson

    OCT 1

    191. Leaping into Justice: Empowering Future Educators to Transform Schools with Dr. Fatima Brunson

    The landscape of education is evolving in the midst of policy changes across the country. In this week’s episode, we are joined by Dr. Fatima Brunson, Tenure-track Assistant Professor of Education at Spelman College. Dr. Brunson shares how federal shifts are reshaping learning environments, disproportionately impacting students and educators. Despite this politically charged climate contributing to student and faculty stress, Dr. Brunson highlights the resilience of future educators committed to authentic transformation, justice, and culturally relevant pedagogy. Find out how she empowers students in her class to navigate funding losses, dispel policy myths, and craft student-led policy briefs of alternative solutions with potential for school adoption. Dr. Brunson completed her Doctorate of Philosophy in Policy Studies and Urban Education from the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). As a scholar committed to advancing educational equity, her research examines how schools can strengthen teachers’ cultural knowledge and foster responsive teaching practices—critical components of culturally sustaining pedagogy. Her work focuses on urban schools where demographic divides between students and educators often exist, highlighting the conditions that support effective, equity-driven teaching. In partnership with school districts and informal learning spaces like science centers and children’s museums, Dr. Brunson explores how educators can work collectively to create humanizing, culturally affirming learning experiences. Through consulting and professional development, she supports organizations in building inclusive environments and enhancing student engagement. At the heart of her work is a deep commitment to ensuring that all children—especially students of color—receive the affirming, high-quality education they deserve. To learn more about Dr. Brunson. Work, visit her at Spelman.edu or connect with her on LinkedIn

    19 min
  6. 190. Empathy in Action: Listening, Supporting, and Saving Lives with Clifton Bright, Jr

    SEP 24

    190. Empathy in Action: Listening, Supporting, and Saving Lives with Clifton Bright, Jr

    Let’s talk about empathy! Do we really want to understand each other? As we wrap up Suicide Prevention Month, we welcome back Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Clifton Bright, Jr. for an honest dive into the challenges people face with their feelings in today's world. Clifton unpacks three distinct types of empathy to emphasize their value, especially in times of crisis, and guides us through the art of listening to understand rather than simply respond. Don’t miss the unforgettable story he shares about a survivor who jumped off a bridge and lived, illuminating what it truly takes to show up for someone in pain. We’ll explore the ways to recognize healthy and safe relationships that foster healing from trauma, and Clifton also shares how our podcast has impacted his practice over the past five years! Clifton completed his MS in Mental Health Counseling and Human Services at Capella University in Minneapolis, Minnesota and received his Bachelor of Science in Sociology at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. As an author, mentor, life coach, consultant and owner of Bright House Counseling, a private practice located in Harford County Maryland, he has worked with men from all walks of life and discovered that God has a specific purpose for every man. His passion is to help men strengthen their knowledge of their identity so they can function in their purpose. Clifton has been married for over 20 years and is a member of Spirit of Faith Christian Center in Baltimore Maryland. To learn more about Clifton and his work, connect with him on IG @clifton_bright_lcpc or email him at cliftonbrightjr@gmail.com.

    32 min
  7. 189. Recognizing the Signs: Suicide Prevention with Alexander Dorsey

    SEP 17

    189. Recognizing the Signs: Suicide Prevention with Alexander Dorsey

    As we continue to honor Suicide Prevention Month, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Alexander Dorsey returns to share practical insights on mental health, suicide prevention, and supporting college athletes. With six years in private practice, Alex discusses how to recognize warning signs of suicidal thoughts in yourself, friends, and loved ones while introducing the Stanley-Brown Safety Plan as a tool for staying safe during moments of crisis. We also explore how self-care, body awareness, and daily wellness practices can reduce the risk of suicidal ideation—offering guidance, encouragement, and a reminder that you are valuable, you are needed, and you are not alone.⁠ ⁠ Alex completed his MA in Mental Health Counseling, along with his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California. He works with children, adolescents and adults to address their emotional needs. Alex specializes in working with clients experiencing concerns related to depression and trauma. He believes that teaching clients how to process and cope with their emotions allows them to flourish in life. Alex also owns Mending Minds Professional Clinical Counseling, a private practice that caters to African American males of all ages. If you need immediate assistance, be sure to call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for support. To learn more about Alex and his work, connect with him on IG @alexdorseylpcc or visit his website at AlexDorseyLPCC.com.

    23 min
  8. 188. 'How Big Is Your Situation?' Managing Stress with Samantha Tubbs-Crews

    SEP 10

    188. 'How Big Is Your Situation?' Managing Stress with Samantha Tubbs-Crews

    School is back in session, and you may be feeling that familiar wave of overwhelm. So, how are you managing your stress? In today's episode, we are joined by Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Psychotherapist, Samantha Tubbs-Crews, who shares actionable steps for evaluating "how big is your situation?"—so you can tackle challenges without spiraling into panic, even when grades and goals feel daunting. Find out how small choices today shape your future well-being as we dig into the risks of using alcohol or drugs for stress relief. Get ready to start the year with confidence and take your next step toward a healthier school year. Ms. Tubbs-Crews completed her Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and she received her Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Science and Psychology at National Louis University. With over 30 years in the mental health field and 25 years in private practice, Ms. Tubbs-Crews holds various advanced certifications and she has worked with college students over the span of her career to help them manage their time more effectively, develop better study habits, and minimize test anxiety. She enjoys facilitating seminars/workshops focusing on Stress Management, Effective Communication Skills, Boundary Setting, and Work-Personal Life Balance. She is also the author of her new book, ‘How To Kick The “S” Out of Stress!’ and she has received awards and recognition for Outstanding Women in the Community. She has also been featured in the Women’s Journal and USA News in recognition of her work as a therapist and author. To learn more about Ms. Tubbs-Crews, connect with her on IG @samanthalmhc or visit her website at Empoweredmindz.com.⁠ ⁠

    29 min
See All (194)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Founder and CEO of The Back to Me Podcast (@thebacktomepodcast), Yoli Tamu (@yolitamuofficial) hosts this college-focused podcast inspired by college students across the nation. The Back to Me Podcast was created to answer many questions posed by college freshmen entering this new environment and college graduates heading out into a new world as young adults. Every week, students will be inspired and encouraged by self-affirming interviews and tips to succeed in college and in a career they love.

Information