In this episode for Mental Health Awareness Month, we flip the script where Dr. Mona is interviewed by a guest host, the show’s producer Julius Shepard-Morgan. Dr. Mona shares her insight into the important role belonging plays in our mental wellbeing. She explores what mental health is, and what it isn’t.

Listen now to discover:

- Dr. Mona’s spirit of who she is and her journey on reluctantly becoming a mental health therapist

- Why connection and belonging are essential for us as humans

- Concrete ways to care for your mental health

- Tools for supporting loved ones who are struggling

- What belonging means to Dr. Mona

Learn more about the Belonging Reimagined Podcast: www.drmonanour.com/podcast

Connect with Dr. Mona Nour: www.drmonanour.com

In this episode, Dr. Mona chats with Licensed Clinical Social Worker and influencer Marvin Toliver to uncover the complexities of Black masculinity and the power of belonging. Marvin is the co-founder of the mental health collective Melanated Social Work. He is a queer, Bi-sexual, Black creator, writer, consultant, public speaker, mentor, wedding officiant, and radical educator. He encourages others to see the power within themselves and use their voices to fight for justice.

Marvin discusses the identities he grapples with, from his Black African American background to his Bi-sexuality. He shares his struggles growing up in a community where Black masculinity was narrowly defined, as well as the pressure to conform and the internal conflict it caused. He also opens up about receiving an HIV diagnosis and the impact it had on his life. You'll hear how this experience forced him to confront his truth and ultimately redefine masculinity - and Black masculinity - for himself.

Listen now to:

- Learn how societal expectations around masculinity can impact mental health

- Discover the importance of self belonging and embracing your full identity

- Explore a new definition of Black masculinity that celebrates authenticity

- Gain insight into nurturing belonging and connections despite societal expectations

1:06 - Dr. Mona introduces today’s guest, Marvin Toliver.

5:12 - Marvin shares his identities that he is most connected to.

7:41 - How did those different parts of yourself come to a collison?

13:24 - What was your definition of masculinity growing up?

15:46 - What specifically made those things Black masculine?

18:19 - Is it an authentic bond or what you’re supposed to bond over?

20:41 - Marvin shares his experience getting the HIV diagnosis.

28:08 - How did the lying create barriers to your own sense of belonging?

30:42 - What does Black, modern masculinity mean to you now?

36:40 - What does belonging mean to you?

Learn more about Marvin Toliver: www.marvintoliver.com

Follow Marvin on Instagram @mtoliver_lcsw and @dearblackman_yougood

Learn more about the Belonging Reimagined Podcast: www.drmonanour.com/podcast

Connect with Dr. Mona Nour: www.drmonanour.com

Do you ever feel like you can't say no? Struggle to stand up for yourself? Tune in for this episode as Dr. Mona chats with boundary coach Kami Orange, author of the book "Say The Thing." Kami, who identifies as fat, autistic, queer, white cis woman, has 17 years of experience helping people set boundaries and speaking up in defense for others.

In their conversation, Kami and Dr. Mona explore:

- Why setting boundaries is crucial for healthy relationships

- How to navigate social media negativity

- Practical tools to set clear and confident boundaries online and in person

- How boundaries lead to a stronger sense of belonging

Listen now for actionable advice on taking control of your interactions, saying "no" with confidence, creating the belonging you deserve!

1:12 - Dr. Mona introduces today’s guest, Kami Orange.

2:57 - How Kami’s book, Say The Thing, came about.

5:01 - How do we set boundaries on social media?

11:51 - The four roads or types of responses.

20:50 - Setting boundaries can be a bridge to belonging.

25:24 - Creating boundary scripts for yourself.

33:25 - Creating a solution that works for both of us.

38:43 - What does belonging mean to you?

Learn more about Kami Orange: kamiorange.com

Follow Kami on YouTube youtube.com/@kami_orange, Instagram www.instagram.com/kamiorange, and TikTok www.tiktok.com/@kami_orange.

Purchase Kami’s book “SAY THE THING: Boundary-Setting Scripts & Phrases to Communicate Directly & Speak Up With Kindness”: kamiorange.com/pages/say-the-thing-book

Learn more about the Belonging Reimagined Podcast: www.drmonanour.com/podcast

Connect with Dr. Mona Nour: www.drmonanour.com

In this episode, Dr. Mona speaks with guest Dr. Mariel Buqué, an Afro-Latina clinical psychologist and author of the book, “Break the Cycle: A Guide to Healing Intergenerational Trauma” – featured on Oprah’s Book Club Instagram. Dr. Mariel breaks down the complicated concept of intergenerational trauma and guides the listeners to explore how our ancestors' experiences can impact our nervous systems and responses to stressors. More importantly, she also shares powerful tools to move us through the healing journey.

Listen now and learn to:

- Understand the science behind intergenerational trauma and its impact on us

- Cultivate compassion for your and your family's histories

- Discover ways to connect with family members, even if they haven't healed

- Break the cycle and embark on a journey of intergenerational healing!

1:12 - Dr. Mona introduces today’s guest, Dr. Mariel Buqué.

3:24 - What is trauma?

6:47 - How does trauma become intergenerational trauma?

18:17 - How does someone move through intergenerational healing?

25:24 - How do people create connection and belonging with family members that haven’t healed?

36:13 - Connection between belonging and intergenerational healing.

43:46 - What does belonging mean to you?

Learn more about Dr. Mariel Buqué: www.drmarielbuque.com

Follow Dr. Mariel on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/dr-mariel-buqué and IG www.instagram.com/dr.marielbuque

Purchase the book “Break the Cycle”: sites.prh.com/breakthecyclebook

Learn more about the Belonging Reimagined Podcast: www.drmonanour.com/podcast

Connect with Dr. Mona Nour: www.drmonanour.com

In this episode, Dr. Mona dives into the world of interracial dating with Latreash McCurdy, a biracial brand and web designer and entrepreneur. Latreash shares her experiences and challenges in interracial relationships and breaks down the associated complexities:

- Feeling like an outsider: Latreash shares her experience growing up mixed-race and the struggles and lack of belonging she felt.

- Dating while mixed: From childhood messages to societal pressures, Latreash discusses the challenges of dating interracially and how she overcame limiting beliefs and found her own path.

- The "outside noise": It's not just your partner who matters. Latreash sheds light on dealing with judgmental family members, microaggressions, and the importance of open communication to navigate these hurdles.

- Love vs. Limits: Latreash shares powerful stories of encountering racism and how to have courageous conversations to set boundaries with your partner.

Tune in and discover how to find belonging and build a fulfilling relationship, no matter the color of your skin.

1:12 - Dr. Mona introduces today’s guest, Latreash McCurdy.

3:47 - Interracial dating.

5:54 - How does interracial dating look for you?

11:23 - Challenges of interracial dating.

13:35 - All the outside noise.

24:24 - Racism, ignorance, and culture.

27:58 - Boundaries and advocacy in interracial dating.

41:51 - What does belonging mean to you?

Learn more about Latreash McCurdy.: www.latreash.com

Follow Latreash on IG instagram.com/latreash_designs and Facebook facebook.com/LatreashDesigns

Learn more about the Belonging Reimagined Podcast: www.drmonanour.com/podcast

Connect with Dr. Mona Nour: www.drmonanour.com

Join Dr. Mona as she speaks with Dr. Giavanni Washington, affectionately known as Dr. G, the creator of "Black Goddess Within Oracle Deck." Dr. G discusses the inspiration behind the deck, the importance of Blackness and Black bodies in spirituality, and how the deck can be used to heal the wounds of colonialism. They also delve into the creative process behind the deck and the meaning of ancestral healing and restoration. Tune in for a powerful conversation about reclaiming power, ancestral connection, and decolonizing spirituality.

1:12 - Dr. Mona introduces today’s guest, Dr. Giavanni Washington.

3:14 - How did this deck come about?

8:52 - The majority of the world does not look like white males.

12:40 - Only Black One There (OBOT).

16:23 - Religiosity and spirituality.

18:56 - This deck is for everybody in every body.

22:45 - The process of creating the deck.

25:28 - What does ancestral healing or restoration mean to you?

31:16 - What does belonging mean to you?

Learn more about Dr. Giavanni Washington: www.drgiavanniwashington.com

Follow Dr. G on IG/TT: @blackgoddesswithin and FB: facebook.com/giavanni.washington

Purchase Black Goddess Within Oracle Deck: www.drgiavanniwashington.com/deck

Dr. G is currently offering The Black Goddess Reunion for those who identify as Black. The Reunion is a place for the weary soul to find belonging, understanding, and community. Learn more at drgiavanniwashington.com/membership

Learn more about the Belonging Reimagined Podcast: www.drmonanour.com/podcast

Connect with Dr. Mona Nour: www.drmonanour.com

Feeling like you are either too much or not enough at work? Are people making microaggressions either to you or someone else in the workplace? You might be experiencing workplace trauma.

Join Dr. Mona as she speaks with Kristin Reddick, a licensed mental health therapist who specializes in career counseling and racial trauma. Kristin has over 14 years experience in the financial services industry before becoming a therapist and expert on workplace trauma.

In this episode, you'll discover:

- How to identify signs of a toxic work environment

- How to vet potential employers and workplace values

- Strategies for healing from workplace trauma

- How to show up authentically at work and find your voice

You will also hear Kristin’s personal stories of reclaiming her identity, belonging, and power in the corporate world. Listen now and discover how to thrive, not just survive, in your career!

1:12 - Dr. Mona introduces today’s guest, Kristin Reddick.

3:57 - How did you become an expert in workplace trauma?

9:22 - Violence can show up in many forms.

11:18 - How can people vet out future employers?

13:52 - Black women experiencing work trauma.

16:23 - Isolation and anxiety in the workplace.

19:10 - Internalizing the oppressive system.

22:06 - How does somebody heal from workplace trauma?

33:04 - What does belonging mean to you?

Learn more about Kristin Reddick: www.nourcounseling.com/kristin-reddick

Learn more about the Belonging Reimagined Podcast: www.drmonanour.com/podcast

Connect with Dr. Mona Nour: www.drmonanour.com

In this episode, join Dr. Mona and Dr. Deborah Egerton for a powerful conversation about using the Enneagram for personal growth, social justice, and creating a more unified world.

Dr. Deborah Egerton, affectionately referred to as “Dr. E,” an internationally respected psychotherapist, best-selling author, and President of the International Enneagram Association. In her conversation with Dr. Mona, Dr. E dives deep into the Enneagram, which she describes as the "blueprint of the soul,” and explains to listeners how understanding all the points increases self-awareness, empathy for others, and human connection.

Key Takeaways:

- The Enneagram helps us understand our basic fears, desires, and core motivation.

- Each Enneagram type has a unique path to belonging.

- Anger and hatred will not move the social justice movement forward. Self-healing and love are the foundation for social justice work.

- Take Dr. E's free Enneagram quiz (with honesty!) on her website and explore her book, "The Enneagram Made Easy," to understand your Enneagram point. Learn tips for moving out of dark phases and embracing your true self.

0:09 - Dr. Mona introduces today’s guest, Dr. Deborah Egerton.

2:15 - What is the Enneagram?

12:05 - Using the Enneagram for social justice.

14:49 - Dr. E walks us through the 9 energies of the enneagram as they relate to belonging.

20:37 - Appealing to the inherent goodness within all human beings.

27:47 - How people can find out what their Enneagram point is.

32:29 - What does belonging mean to Dr. Egerton?

Learn more about Dr. Deborah Egerton: www.deborahegerton.com

Purchase Dr. E’s new book “Enneagram Made Easy”: www.deborahegerton.com/eme

Learn more about the Belonging Reimagined Podcast: www.drmonanour.com/podcast

Connect with Dr. Mona Nour: www.drmonanour.com

In this episode, Dr. Mona speaks with Dr. Tara Sanderson, a psychologist and author, as they explore how the need to be perfect can lead to disconnection within ourselves and with others. Dr. Sanderson shares how her own struggles with perfectionism led to isolation and masking her true self.

In this episode, you will discover:

- How perfectionism can be a barrier to belonging

- The role of vulnerability in creating belonging

- How to challenge the idea of being ‘right’ and ‘perfect’

- Practical steps to start letting go of perfectionism as a path to authenticity

1:07 - Dr. Mona introduces today’s guest, Dr. Tara Sanderson.

4:15 - What has perfectionism meant for you?

7:28 - Dr. Sanderson explains the false need for people to feel comfortable.

10:35 - How does perfectionism keep people from being seen and embraced?

13:36 - Lessons from perfectionism.

20:43 - When you are aligned with your own values, how is your sense of belonging impacted?

24:26 - How do I create a world with true connection?

34:46 - What does belonging mean to you?

Learn more about Belonging Reimagined: www.drmonanour.com/podcast

Connect with Dr. Mona Nour: www.drmonanour.com

Connect with Dr. Tara Sanderson: www.drtarasanderson.com

In this episode, Dr. Mona discusses creating her inclusive therapy practice and meeting Sherri, a Black, queer-identifying therapist. Sherri emphasizes the importance of authentic inclusion beyond tokenism.

Intersectionality: Sherri explores how her various identities interact, highlighting how even diverse spaces can feel unwelcoming.

Feeling Belonging: Sherri describes finding true belonging with Dr. Mona, contrasting it with past experiences of microaggressions and performative inclusion.

Impact on Identity: Sherri shares how her identity as a queer woman, on top of being Black, further limited her sense of belonging due to societal expectations and ageism.

Creating Safety: Sherri emphasizes the need for self-advocacy but acknowledges its emotional toll, advocating for creating safety instead of solely seeking it.

Coming Out as Queer: Sherri discusses the challenges of coming out in a community with limited understanding and facing potential rejection, emphasizing self-acceptance and finding chosen family.

Cutting Ties: Sherri acknowledges the difficulty but importance of severing ties with unsupportive family members to prioritize self-care and build a supportive chosen family.

1:23 - Dr. Mona introduces today’s guest, Sherri Ford-Jacobs.

1:53 - Dr. Mona shares how they met.

7:17 - Sherri shares her research on the concept of intersectionality.

8:58 - What was different for you in this new space?

10:06- How is that different for you than what you experienced before?

17:22 - How do these experiences impact your queer identity?

20:28 - How have you identified spaces that feel secure for you?

24:56 - What is that identity construction process like?

27:04 - The stereotype of queer.

29:05 - How do you connect with the people in your family that you love, that are perpetuating the pain?

Learn more about the Belonging Reimagined Podcast: www.drmonanour.com/podcast

Connect with Dr. Mona Nour: www.drmonanour.com

Connect with Sherri Ford-Jacobs: www.nourcounseling.com/sherri-ford-jacobs