In this Mailbag episode, Dr. Raquel Martin explains how to build love and connection after growing up unseen, unheard, or unloved, and why self-compassion is the first step.

Grief isn't linear, and it's not something you just "get over." Dr. Martin discusses the long arc of grief in Black communities, from personal loss to generational trauma, and how we can make space for its full expression.

When religious beliefs are used to silence pain, it's called spiritual bypassing. Dr. Martin discusses how Black faith spaces can hold both healing and harm, and why therapy and faith can coexist.

From schools to home life, Black children are often denied the innocence and support others receive. Dr. Martin explores how adultification harms mental health and how reparenting can start the healing process.

What happens when being "Black enough" becomes a performance? Dr. Martin unpacks the mental health cost of masking, code-switching, and respectability politics, and why reclaiming your identity is an act of liberation.

Many Black families parent from a place of fear, shaped by generations of trauma. Dr. Martin explores how shifting from obedience to respect-based parenting can break harmful cycles and nurture emotional resilience in kids.

Black youth suicide rates have surged over 50% in recent years. In this episode, Dr. Raquel Martin debunks the myth that Black people don't die by suicide and explores the impact of racial trauma, stigma, and silence in families and schools.

From trauma healing to ADHD and hormonal changes, Dr. Raquel Martin breaks down listener questions and explains why strong boundaries protect your mental health.

In this conversation, Kristen and Dr. Raquel Martin discuss the intricacies of couples therapy, the challenges of organizing group therapy, and the importance of understanding the roles and boundaries of therapists. They explore misconceptions that clients may have about therapy, the significance of individual therapy alongside couples work, and the dynamics of family therapy. The discussion emphasizes the need for clear communication and the therapist's role in navigating complex relationship issues. In this conversation, Dr. Raquel Martin and Kristen explore the complexities of relationships, the impact of family dynamics on self-perception, and the nuances of addiction and emotional coping mechanisms. They discuss the importance of setting boundaries in relationships, the skills required for maintaining friendships, and how childhood experiences shape adult behaviors. The dialogue also delves into the relationship individuals have with food and substances, emphasizing the need for healthier coping strategies and the societal pressures that contribute to unhealthy habits. In this conversation, Kristen and Dr. Raquel Martin explore the multifaceted nature of fitness, the mindset of athletes, and the importance of community in personal growth. They discuss the differences between coaching and therapy, emphasizing the need for action-oriented approaches in coaching while allowing for deeper emotional exploration in therapy. The conversation also touches on building healthy relationships, recognizing red and green flags, and the significance of accountability in personal development.

Takeaways

• The organization of group therapy requires significant funding and planning.
• Couples therapy is distinct from individual therapy and requires specialized training.
• Misconceptions about therapy often lead clients to misunderstand the therapist's role.
• Therapists should maintain clear boundaries between individual and couples therapy.
• It's essential for therapists to support clients in having difficult conversations.
• Understanding family dynamics is crucial in couples therapy.
• Clients may feel apprehensive about therapy based on gender dynamics.
• Therapists should not act as referees in couples therapy sessions.
• Individual therapy can complement couples therapy for better outcomes.

Bio

Kristen is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, wellness coach and the owner of Believe. Be Free. Be Well. PLLC (B3). Her passion for mental and physical wellness are at the cornerstone of her work helping others begin again and move forward - mind, body, and spirit.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Raquel Martin interviews Fawn Weaver, exploring her journey as an entrepreneur, the impact of her book, and her unique perspective on introversion and community. They delve into the significance of Fawn's work with Uncle Nearest, the misconceptions surrounding imposter syndrome, and the importance of self-education. Fawn shares her experiences with isolation, leadership, and the power of storytelling in preserving history. In this engaging conversation, Fawn Weaver and Dr. Raquel Martin explore the themes of purpose, resilience, and authenticity in entrepreneurship. Weaver shares her journey of overcoming personal challenges and emphasizes the importance of understanding one's purpose as a driving force in life and business. They discuss the significance of authenticity in the workplace, the impact of respectability politics, and the necessity of owning one's brand and online presence. The conversation highlights the mental energy spent on masking one's true self and the freedom that comes from embracing authenticity. Weaver also touches on the intersection of faith and business, advocating for a mindset that prioritizes purpose over legacy.

Takeaways

• Fawn's book resonates with both men and women, leading to rapid readership.
• Isolation can be a choice for introverts, who thrive in their own company.
• Community should be chosen wisely to avoid draining energy.
• Imposter syndrome is often a mislabeling of justified reactions to oppressive environments.
• Fawn emphasizes the importance of self-education and reading.
• The story of Uncle Nearest highlights the significance of representation in history.
• Jack Daniel's relationship with Nearest Green challenges historical narratives.

Bio

Fawn Weaver, a USA Today and New York Times and bestselling author, is an investor, marriage advocate, TEDx alum and the founder of the Happy Wives Club, a community of nearly 1,000,000 women in more than 110 countries.

The Club's website, HappyWivesClub.com, is an upbeat blog dedicated to positively changing the tone about marriage. Twice named the Best Marriage Site on the web by About.com, HappyWivesClub.com is the go-to place for women wanting to read about the "sunny side" of marriage and get tips on taking a marriage from good to great and from great to extraordinary.

Happy Wives Club, Weaver's debut book is a journey to 12 countries and 6 continents in search of the universal secret to a happy marriage. Weaver's next book the Argument-Free Marriage, takes couples through a 28-day day challenge to creating the marriage of their dreams with the spouse they already have.