In this episode, I’m joined by Emili Johnson, creator of the Black Girl Iowa podcast. Emili shares how starting a podcast became a powerful act of self-love and resistance. We talk about finding your voice when you’ve spent years feeling invisible, navigating mental health as a Black woman in Iowa, and the unexpected burnout that comes with podcasting solo.

Emili opens up about her journey with anxiety, depression, and PMDD—and how therapy, journaling, and storytelling helped her reclaim her peace. If you’ve ever questioned your voice, felt unseen, or wondered if your story matters, this episode is for you.

Topics covered:
• Mental health and healing
• Podcasting without a team
• DEI rollbacks in Iowa
• Black women’s voices and validation
• Journaling as self-care
• Building creative confidence

👉 Stay connected and find mental health resources in the show notes.

If You Need Immediate Support
Text or Call: In the U.S., you can reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

Online Support: Many organizations offer chat support, such as the Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741).

Support the show - https://buymeacoffee.com/coreydionlewis

Steven Lewis joins the show to talk pressure, identity, and mental health as a creative. From routines to social media stress, we unpack how to stay grounded while building your brand.

Mental Health Resources:

• Therapy for Black Men: https://therapyforblackmen.org
• NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness): https://nami.org
• Mental Health America: https://mhanational.org
• The Steve Fund (Supporting the mental health of young people of color): https://www.stevefund.org
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 or visit https://www.crisistextline.org

Stay connected with host Corey Dion Lewis:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreydlewis/
https://www.instagram.com/coreydionlewis/
https://www.tiktok.com/@coreydionlewis
 
Connect with the guest
https://www.instagram.com/sight_lives/
https://www.instagram.com/sightseyephotography/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCw7f8lKeJMxW9mjvhyczTZA

📬 Join the Mental Health Coffee Club newsletter for real conversations, resources, and weekly check-ins: www.healthyproject.co

What does inclusive public art look like when it comes from lived experience?

In this episode of Coffee Can’t Fix Everything, I sit down with Marissa Hernandez—a artist from the Des Moines art scene—to talk about mental health, faceless portraits, and how her murals bring representation and healing to public spaces across Iowa.

Topics we cover:

• Art and identity in the Iowa art community
• Mental health and creativity as a BIPOC artist
• Why faceless portraits create deeper emotional connection
• Community-driven art and youth collaboration
• Navigating the art industry and pricing your work fairly
• How murals can empower young artists and change public spaces

If you care about mental health in the arts, representation in public art, or just want a powerful story on how art can be a voice for the voiceless, you need to watch this.

💬 Join the conversation in the comments:
 What kind of representation is missing in your city’s public art?

☕ Enjoyed the episode? Support the show:
 buymeacoffee.com/coreydionlewis

 Subscribe for more stories blending mental health, culture, and community.

#MentalHealthPodcast #BIPOCArtist #DesMoinesArtScene #FacelessPortraits #PublicMurals #ArtAndRepresentation #CoffeeCantFixEverything

In this episode of Coffee Can’t Fix Everything, we sit down for a raw and insightful conversation on the realities of leadership, parenting, and personal growth. We dive into the mental health challenges that come with leading in both professional and personal spaces, the impact of burnout, and how to develop emotional resilience in the face of setbacks. Our guest shares their journey through leadership challenges, self-doubt, and the lessons they've learned about balancing work, faith, and family. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, entrepreneur, working parent, or someone striving for personal and professional growth, this conversation will leave you with valuable insights on staying grounded, navigating rejection, and leading with authenticity.

Show Notes:
00:00 - Welcome to Coffee Can’t Fix Everything an introduction to today’s guest
02:20 - The realities of leadership: balancing passion with the unexpected challenges
07:03 - Burnout and work stress: why setting boundaries is key to long-term success
10:37 - Dealing with disappointment and navigating rejection as a leader
15:43 - Parenting and leadership: lessons from raising kids while leading a career
20:28 - The power of faith and mental health in staying resilient through tough times
24:33 - The importance of self-reflection and how to develop a growth mindset
28:05 - Emotional intelligence and staying in control of your emotions in high-pressure moments
32:00 - The power of mentorship, community leadership, and giving back
37:09 - The reality of nonprofit management and work-life balance
40:27 - Final thoughts: How to stay anchored in your values and keep moving forward

Tune in for this real, unfiltered conversation about leadership, mental health, and the everyday struggles that come with trying to make an impact. If you enjoy the episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it!

Support the Podcast & Stay Connected:

• ☕ Love the show? Buy me a coffee! → https://buymeacoffee.com/coreydionlewis
• Follow Coffee Can’t Fix Everything for more real conversations on mental health and leadership
• Learn more about our guest and their work
• Connect with us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

In this episode of Coffee Can’t Fix Everything, I sit down with Courageous Fire, a survivor, advocate, and author of The Other Child. We unpack the complicated relationship between forgiveness and healing—why they aren’t always the same and why choosing self-compassion over forced forgiveness can be the key to true healing.

Courageous shares her journey of surviving domestic violence, breaking free from toxic relationships, and redefining what healing looks like on her terms. We discuss how childhood trauma impacts our ability to forgive, the importance of self-forgiveness, and the first steps to reclaiming our power.

If you've ever felt pressured to "just forgive and move on," this episode challenges that mindset and offers a fresh, empowering perspective. Tune in to hear Courageous Fire’s insights and learn how to shift the focus from forgiveness to healing.

Episode Highlights:

🔹 [00:00] – Welcome to Coffee Can’t Fix Everything + Introducing Courageous Fire
🔹 [00:28] – The meaning behind Courageous Fire’s name and her journey
🔹 [00:52] – Forgiveness vs. Healing: Why they aren’t the same
🔹 [02:08] – The pressure to forgive in religious and societal settings
🔹 [03:20] – How forced forgiveness can lead to further trauma
🔹 [06:01] – Courageous Fire’s story: Surviving domestic violence
🔹 [07:45] – Self-forgiveness: The first step to healing
🔹 [08:33] – Why survivors blame themselves and how to shift the perspective
🔹 [12:09] – The power of reclaiming your identity after trauma
🔹 [16:31] – The “Mufasa Moment” – Recognizing your inner strength
🔹 [19:12] – When is the right time to forgive?
🔹 [22:06] – How to reframe self-worth to embrace healing
🔹 [25:09] – The Other Child: How labels can help identify and process trauma
🔹 [30:45] – First steps for people ready to start their healing journey
🔹 [32:22] – Where to find Courageous Fire’s book and final words of encouragement

Key Takeaways:

✅ Forgiveness is often pressured but isn’t always necessary for healing.
✅ Self-forgiveness is crucial in overcoming trauma.
✅ Trauma survivors often blame themselves for what was done to them.
✅ Healing begins when you recognize your worth and reclaim your power.
✅ True healing happens on your own timeline—not when others expect it.

📩 Enjoyed this episode? Leave a review and share it with a friend!

Resources & Links:

📖 Get Courageous Fire’s book This Is for the Other Child

National Mental Health Resources (U.S.)

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Free mental health support and education.
https://www.nami.org
MentalHealth.gov – Government resource for mental health education and support.
https://www.mentalhealth.gov

 Crisis Text Line – Free 24/7 support via text. Text HELLO to 741741
https://www.crisistextline.org

 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Free 24/7 support for those in crisis or distress. Call 988
https://988lifeline.org

The Trevor Project – Mental health and crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth. Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678678
https://www.thetrevorproject.org

RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) – Support for survivors of sexual violence. Call 800-656-HOPE (4673)
https://www.rainn.org

SAMHSA National Helpline – Free and confidential treatment referral and support. Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline

Black Mental Health & Trauma Resources

Therapy for Black Girls – Mental health support for Black women & girls.
https://www.therapyforblackgirls.com

Therapy for Black Men – Directory of therapists specializing in Black men’s mental health.
https://www.therapyforblackmen.org

The Loveland Foundation – Mental health resources & therapy funds for Black women & girls.
https://thelovelandfoundation.org

Black Mental Health Alliance – Free resources & support for the Black community.
https://blackmentalhealth.com

Domestic Violence & Trauma Support

National Domestic Violence Hotline – Free, 24/7 support for domestic abuse survivors. Call 800-799-7233 or text START to 88788
https://www.thehotline.org

National Resource Center on Domestic Violence – Education & support for domestic violence survivors.
https://www.nrcdv.org

Resilience (Sexual Assault Services) – Trauma-informed support for sexual violence survivors.
https://www.ourresilience.org

Find a Therapist

Psychology Today – Therapist Directory
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists

Open Path Collective – Affordable Therapy
https://openpathcollective.org

Inclusive Therapists – Culturally responsive therapy resources
https://www.inclusivetherapists.com

In this heartfelt episode of Coffee Can't Fix Everything, we sit down with Max to have an open conversation about mental health, the challenges of asking for help, and the barriers many face in seeking therapy. From breaking the stigma around mental health in the LGBTQ+ and Black communities to discussing communal burnout, Max shares their insights as a mental health advocate, executive director, and gender doula. We explore why seeking help can feel so difficult, the impact of inclusive mental health care, and how community support plays a vital role in healing. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating their mental health journey or supporting others through theirs.

Show Notes:
0:00 - Introduction to Season 2 and welcoming Max to the show
1:27 - The host’s personal journey to therapy and confronting the fear of asking for help
3:17 - Max’s experience with therapy and its transformative impact
5:18 - LGBTQ+ mental health advocacy and addressing barriers to care
7:40 - Cultural challenges in accessing mental health support in marginalized communities
10:28 - What authentic allyship looks like in action
15:21 - The power of pronouns and small gestures in creating safe spaces
18:23 - The stark difference in mental health resources between urban and rural areas
20:45 - How leaders and advocates can balance busy lives with seeking help
26:33 - Unlearning toxic masculinity and embracing vulnerability as a strength
28:13 - Building community support to normalize mental health care
32:53 - Max’s advice to those hesitant to ask for help

Mental Health Resources:

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): www.nami.org
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for free, 24/7 crisis support
• Therapy for Black Men: www.therapyforblackmen.org
• The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ Youth): www.thetrevorproject.org
• One Iowa (LGBTQ+ Resources): www.oneiowa.org
• Psychology Today’s Therapist Finder: www.psychologytoday.com

Remember, you are not alone, and help is available. Let’s break the stigma one conversation at a time.

In this Coffee Can't Fix Everything episode, Corey sits down with Jill, who shares her transformative journey of becoming "Jill 2.0." From dealing with the unexpected loss of her father to navigating a rare kidney disease, Jill opens up about the challenges and changes she faced in her life. Together, they discuss the power of resilience, the importance of prioritizing family, and the courage it takes to redefine oneself in the face of adversity. Jill offers insights into how embracing change, even when difficult, can lead to growth and a more fulfilling life.

Chapter Markers:

• 00:00 - Introduction and Welcome
• 01:23 - The Power of Change: Jill's Early Life and Resilience
• 03:29 - Coping with Loss and Health Challenges
• 07:47 - Redefining Identity and Prioritizing Family
• 13:31 - The Importance of Vulnerability and Accountability
• 16:54 - Moving Beyond Comfort: Advice for Those Stuck in Their "Crap"
• 20:28 - Empowering Change and Reclaiming Control
• 24:29 - The Fluidity of Change and Embracing Imperfection
• 28:06 - Advice for the Future Self: Speaking Truth to Power
• 30:51 - Closing Thoughts and Upcoming My City My Health Event

Mental Health Resources: If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please consider reaching out to the following resources:

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
• Mental Health America
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
• Crisis Text Line - Text "HELLO" to 741741
• Therapy for Black Girls

Remember, coffee can't fix everything, but talking about mental health is a great start. Join us for more conversations like this by subscribing to our channel and sharing this episode with someone who might need it. See you next time!

In this powerful episode of Coffee Can't Fix Everything, Corey Lewis sits down with licensed mental health therapist Caleb Thomas to tackle a topic many shy away from—pornography addiction. This candid conversation explores the psychological, physiological, and spiritual impacts of pornography, shedding light on why it's more than just a personal vice. Caleb shares his journey from recognizing the problem in his clients to becoming a certified sex and porn addiction recovery coach. Discover the hidden struggles many face and learn how to overcome this widespread issue with practical advice, group therapy options, and a deep dive into Caleb’s upcoming book, Be Porn Free.

Don't forget to check the links at the end of the video for mental health services and resources.

Chapters:

0:00 - Introduction to Coffee Can't Fix Everything 
1:08 - The Taboo Topic: Why Pornography is Hard to Discuss 
2:48 - Mental Health Impacts of Pornography 
5:44 - The Spiritual Battle Behind Pornography Addiction 
8:20 - Writing "Be Porn Free": Caleb's Journey and Discoveries 
11:42 - The Importance of Group Therapy and Online Courses 
14:21 - Breaking the Habit: Steps to Recovery 
17:02 - The Enemy We All Face: Spiritual Perspectives 
18:27 - The Effects of Pornography on Relationships and Families 
19:50 - Desensitization and Escalation in Porn Consumption 
21:27 - How Long Does it Take to Be Porn Free? 
22:55 - Pre-Order Details for "Be Porn Free" 
23:45 - Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

Mental Health Resources:

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) - Website
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): For support and education on mental health issues. Website
• SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) - Free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information service for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders. Website
• Psychology Today Therapist Finder: A comprehensive directory to find mental health professionals in your area. Website
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for free, 24/7 crisis counseling via text.
• Headspace: A mindfulness and meditation app for mental health management. Website
• BetterHelp: Online therapy services connecting individuals with licensed therapists. Website

These resources can provide support, guidance, and therapy options if you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges.

In this enlightening episode of Coffee Can't Fix Everything, host Corey Dion Lewis sits down with the inspiring Dr. Erlin Kakkanad to discuss the complexities of cultural identity, the science of happiness, and how to navigate the pressures of fitting in while staying true to oneself.

Dr. Erlin Kakkanad, an award-winning children's book author and positive psychology enthusiast, shares her journey from India to the U.S., the challenges of maintaining cultural identity, and the impact of her children's questions on her writing. She also gets into her professional mission of creating meaningful work environments and the importance of flow in achieving workplace happiness.

About the Guest:

Dr. Erlin Kakkanad’s experiences have shaped her into a problem-solver. In 2022, she debuted as a children's book author and is now the author of two award-winning bestsellers, "Happy in Your Skin" and "I Love Curry and I’m Not Sorry.” Her inspiration to publish these books came from the realization that there was a lack of children's literature catering to Asian Indian children’s curiosity about their cultural backgrounds.

Dr. Kakkanad is an international speaker and positive psychology enthusiast. She holds a BS in Computer Engineering and Application, a double Master’s in Human Resources and Total Quality Management - The Deming Way®, and a Doctorate in Philosophy and Education from Drake University, where her dissertation made significant contributions to the field of meaningful work. She is the Director of Operations Excellence at Principal Financial Group and serves as the Human Rights Commissioner for West Des Moines, Board Director for the American Red Cross - Central Iowa Chapter, and Board of Advisory Trustees for the Jacobson Institute at Grand View University.

Chapter Markers:

0:00 - Introduction 1:04 - Cultural Identity and Its Complexities 2:17 - The Moment of Realization: Helping My Son Understand 5:07 - Writing Children's Books: "Happy in Your Skin" and "I Love Curry and I'm Not Sorry" 8:36 - Navigating Cultural Curiosities 10:28 - Explaining Childhood Experiences to My Kids 13:37 - Defining Happiness and the Concept of "Happier" 17:45 - Faith, Friends, Family: The Pillars of Happiness 20:28 - Solitude and Community: Finding Balance 23:04 - Achieving Flow in Work 27:07 - Recharging: Family, Reading, and Travel 32:23 - Digital Detox: Finding Peace Away from Screens 36:55 - Maintaining Focus and Reducing Anxiety at Work 39:11 - Ending on a Positive Note: Tips for Presentations and Workdays 40:07 - Connecting with Dr. Erlin Kakkanad

Mental Health Resources:

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please reach out for support:

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
• SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
• NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

Remember, coffee can't fix everything, but having these important conversations is a step in the right direction. Let's talk one coffee cup at a time. See you next time!

Join Corey Dion Lewis on "Coffee Can't Fix Everything" as he engages in a profound conversation with mental health advocate Kayla Bell-Consolver. In this episode, they delve into the significance of community healing, the impact of ancestral practices, and the challenges of navigating mental wellness in various communities. Kayla shares her journey, offering valuable insights on building and sustaining supportive environments both online and offline. Don't miss this enlightening discussion that underscores the power of collective healing and the role of community in mental health.

Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction 
1:04 - Meet Kayla Bell-Consolver 
2:02 - The Essence of Community Healing 
3:52 - Ancestral Practices in Modern Healing 
5:52 - Evidence-Based vs. Lived Experience 
7:52 - Healing While Helping Others 
10:07 - Cultivating Online Communities 
13:32 - Navigating Multi-Generational Relationships 
17:42 - Managing Negativity in Online Communities 
21:57 - Evolving Communities Over Time 
25:16 - Investment in Community Relationships 
26:44 - My City My Health and Community Healing 
29:08 - Importance of Community in Healthcare 
30:38 - Conclusion

Links to Mental Health Resources:

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
• Mental Health America (MHA)
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
• Therapy for Black Girls
• Black Mental Health Alliance

Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring conversations on mental health and wellness!