Beyond the Armor: High Achievement, Silent Pain, and the Quest for Healing

OVERVIEW:

“How can someone with so many accomplishments still feel depressed?

It’s a question many ask, but few know how to hold. On this episode of In the Basement with McLemore, Dr. Jonathan P. Edwards drops in for an unvarnished, deeply authentic conversation on the intersection of professional success, hyper-vigilance, and emotional discomfort.

Together, they dismantle the myth that achievement equals invulnerability, examining how depression and anxiety in Black men—especially Black gay men—are often masked behind overcommitment, excessive service, and physical ailments. Dr. Edwards shares insights from his poem "28 Days", weaves in national research on mental health and recovery, and outlines how we can move from awkward silence to compassionate, non-interrogative community presence.

About the Guest: Dr. Jonathan P. Edwards (he/him) is a licensed clinical social worker, researcher, and national speaker working at the intersections of public health, social work, and leadership development. Bringing more than 30 years of experience to organizations, he serves on the faculties of the Columbia University School of Social Work and the Yale Department of Psychiatry. Dr. Edwards integrates rigorous scholarship with experiential capital, drawing on concepts like Sankofa to foster dignified, strengths-based approaches to mental health and substance use recovery. He is a 2026 Sozosei Lab Fellow, a published poet, and co-editor of the anthology Agape Unbridled: Affirming Our Collective Experiences.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

for information about our collection and use of personal data for

advertising.

LGBTQ – Embark on a thought-provoking journey with Bryant McLemore-Smith as he peels back the layers of identity within the LGBTQ community. In episode 8, Bryant delves into the profound world of "T"—for Trans—through a candid and illuminating conversation with Vera, a 35-year-old trans femme who began her transition 13 years ago. Vera’s story is one of self-discovery, courage, and transformation, shaped by her exploration of psychology, philosophy, and the mysteries of multiple pagan belief sects. As she pens an allegorical philosophy book on deconstructing the ego and living authentically, Vera invites listeners into the depths of what it means to truly embrace one’s self within—and beyond—the LGBTQ spectrum. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

for information about our collection and use of personal data for

advertising.

SPILL THE TEA - Step into the shadows with In The Basement with McLemore, where host Bryant McLemore-Smith gets recklessly real with Napolean Mathis Jr. This episode pulls no punches—it's a raw, dangerously intriguing dive into WRECKLACE SEXUAL BEHAVIOR, HIV, and POZ. What does it truly mean to live on the edge, navigating life and love with HIV in a world where some play it safe, but others throw caution to the wind? The risks are real, the stories are wild, and the truths are unfiltered. This isn't just another podcast—it's an unflinching look at the underbelly of today’s dating scene. Don’t just listen—brace yourself. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

for information about our collection and use of personal data for

advertising.

Experience one of the most powerful podcasts yet. Sit down, grab your favorite drink, and get ready for “In The Basement with McLemore.” Host Bryant McLemore-Smith has an in-depth conversation with Mr. Jerome Braggs that you won’t want to miss.

Jerome’s book ONLY FEED ME LIFE is NOW available on Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com.

The day he published his book, I lit a candle and said a prayer: “May everyone who reads Only Feed Me Life experience a miracle. May they be blessed by the same beautiful energy that was with me as I wrote each page. And may they be guided to heal whatever ails them, to finally love the parts of themselves that have been starving for their own love, and to live the well and delicious life their soul craves, and wholly deserves.” No matter where you are, please know that if you read his book. Jerome, “I truly hope this book deeply blesses your life in reading it, as it has done for me in writing it.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

for information about our collection and use of personal data for

advertising.

In this captivating episode of “In The Basement,” host Bryant McLemore welcomes the remarkable Mr. Leslie Givens for an inspiring conversation. Leslie’s journey began at just 18 years old, igniting a passion for helping others that has only grown stronger over time. As Affinity’s first male board member, Leslie shattered barriers and set new standards for community leadership. His commitment to service shines through his work with organizations such as the South Side Help Center, Project Vida, Link Up, Alliance Care 360, the Chicago Methamphetamine Task Force (Cook County), and the Mental Health Hub, among others.

Don’t miss this chance to hear Leslie’s powerful story, learn what drives his mission, and discover how he continues to create positive change. Tune in for wisdom, inspiration, and the kind of conversation that leaves a lasting impression.

Methamphetamine use among Black Gay, Bisexual, and Same-Gender Loving (GBSGL) men in Chicago is a growing public health crisis. The Chicago Methamphetamine Task Force (CMTF) was re-established in 2020 to address this issue, highlighting the lack of data and culturally responsive interventions. CHICAGO METHAMPHETAMINE TASK FORCE Initially formed in 2004 in response to the rising methamphetamine crisis among primarily white gay men, the Chicago Methamphetamine Task Force (CMTF) was re-established in 2020, following the release of the Crystal-Clear Chicago docu-article. Based on the research of Dr. Keith R. Green (formerly of Loyola University Chicago), Crystal CLEAR Chicago served to document the emerging methamphetamine epidemic among Black GBSGL men. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

for information about our collection and use of personal data for

advertising.

In the latest episode of “In the Basement with McLemore,” host Bryant McLemore-Smith sits down with Mr. Charles Nelson, President of the Chicago Chapter of Adodi, to discuss the enduring legacy and vital role of Adodi. Described as “a building of community,” Adodi has become a source of support, brotherhood, and healing for many same-gender-loving men of African descent, as well as those with Latino heritage, regardless of HIV status.

Since its founding in Philadelphia in 1986 by Clifford Rawlins, Adodi has stood as one of the oldest Black gay organizations in the United States. Born out of the need to create safe spaces during the early AIDS epidemic, Adodi’s retreats have offered participants a unique opportunity to grieve, heal, and learn from one another. Drawing on the oral traditions of African ancestors, these gatherings foster intergenerational exchange among peers, elders, and youth.

By 2003, Adodi had expanded to include chapters in dozens of cities and suburbs. Today, active chapters remain in Detroit, Chicago, Philadelphia, New York, and Washington, DC, each offering regular programming and annual retreats that continue to strengthen the bonds of community.

The name Adodi is often understood as the plural of “ado,” a Yoruba term for “a man who loves another man,” highlighting the organization’s cultural roots and mission of affirmation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

for information about our collection and use of personal data for

advertising.

In The Basement, Host Bryant McLemore-Smith is joined in a detailed conversation with fellow Adodi (adodi.org) member Grey Jones. Adodi National is an intergenerational brotherhood of Black-Same-Gender-Loving (SGL) Men across the African Diaspora, and childhood friend Scott Allen of Nupraise Media nupraisemedia.com, to discuss gay dating in retirement age, the generation gaps between the old and new LGBTQ community, and what’s next after the age of sixty living gay and alone. Join Bryant for this extremely important conversation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

for information about our collection and use of personal data for

advertising.

Bryant McLemore-Smith host of In the Basement with McLemore Episode #2, have an indepth conversation with Writer - Director and Producer of BlkOut Theater Project Play Lovers An Original Horror Story Roman Mitchell. Lovers An Original Horror Story. Lovers is not just a story about relationships. It's about what relationships are being forced to carry in a society that has hollowed out everything else, and the visceral horrors that emerge from that positioning. Be careful what you wish for. Get ready for an electrifying journey! The next chapter unfolds with heart-pounding twists and unexpected turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Adventure awaits just beyond the horizon—are you prepared to experience the extraordinary?

"Lovers: An Original Horror Story." "Lovers" extends beyond relationships, examining what they are compelled to bear within a society where many other aspects have been diminished, and the resulting psychological horrors that arise from this context. The production promises an engaging narrative filled with suspenseful developments and unexpected plot turns designed to captivate the audience. Viewers can anticipate a compelling theatrical experience. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

for information about our collection and use of personal data for

advertising.

In The Basement with McLemore – Is a show within itself. Filled with insightful conversation around the LGBTQ community. Join Bryant McLemore-Smith, a seasoned activist fighting for gays rights, black and brown rights, as he discusses life in the LGBTQ community. Discrimination of White gays against Black gays, the relationship between the church and gays. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

for information about our collection and use of personal data for

advertising.