This episode contains discussions of sensitive topics, including suicide ideation, PTSD, and depression. Listener discretion is advised.

In this episode of Are We Well?, host Neelam Chand sits down with Nikki Walker for a heartfelt conversation about her personal journey with mental health and wellness. Rather than discussing her impressive career in public relations and DEI, Nikki opens up about the inner work she’s done to prioritize her well-being, much of which she reflects on in her book, Awareness Put Me On. Together, Neelam and Nikki explore the challenges of maintaining mental health while navigating life’s demands, and how embracing self-care allows us to show up more fully for ourselves and our communities. Tune in for an intimate and inspiring discussion about wellness and healing.

“I think there is a tie between mental health and social justice work in that people should fortify their mental health and wellness when they are working in those spaces.”

Notes:

[00:02:28] Culturally competent communication strategies.

[00:05:01] Mental health journey and challenges.

[00:10:56] Bipolar disorder diagnosis journey.

[00:13:43] Mental health journey and reflection.

[00:21:40] Examining personal trauma.

[00:25:20] Mental health and wellness treatment.

[00:28:01] Importance of sharing true stories.

[00:32:14] Therapy normalization for children.

[00:40:10] Mental health and social justice.

[00:44:52] Mental health in social justice.

[00:47:53] Daily mental health practices.

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In this episode of Are We Well, host Neelam Chand is joined by her dear friend Yvette Romero Coronado, a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience. Together, they explore the significance of centering healing in the pursuit of social change and the journey of rediscovering one's true self. Yvette shares her rich background as the granddaughter and daughter of Mexican migrants and highlights the wisdom of her ancestors in shaping her approach to wellness. The conversation delves into the importance of reclaiming humanity in spaces that often overlook it, along with the joy of connection and community. Join Neelam and Yvette as they discuss the power of healing and the role it plays in fostering belonging, equity, and well-being.

"Healing for me looked like engaging in activism, learning how to talk about what I had experienced and then doing something about it."

Notes:

[00:01:35] Centering healing in social change.

[00:05:51] Healing through community engagement.

[00:09:06] Repair and reclaim ancestral practices.

[00:12:23] Cultural Norms and Internalized Trauma.

[00:19:02] Collectivistic healing perspectives.

[00:22:42] Navigating difficult conversations effectively.

[00:25:38] Workforce diversity and inclusion.

[00:30:01] Maintaining humanity in despair.

[00:32:57] Filling your cup for impact.

[00:39:43] Attention liberation and hope.

[00:41:41] Kalyug and its challenges.

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Hi, I'm Neelam—a small business owner, mother, daughter of immigrants, social justice advocate, and spiritual seeker in Salt Lake City, Utah. I’m passionate about exploring what it truly means to be well, both personally and collectively. My healing journey has led me to build a vibrant community of creatives, entrepreneurs, social justice leaders, and healers. On "Are We Well?," I connect with these inspiring voices to challenge us to think deeper, live consciously, and heal together. This podcast is for those who want to pause, reflect, and explore what wellness really means—an invitation to check in with yourself and ask, are you well?