Podcast
Coffee Can't Fix Everything
Hosted by The Healthy Project Media Co · EN
Grab a cup of coffee (or tea) and join Corey Dion Lewis, community health champion and founder of Healthy Project Media, for candid conversations about mental health. On Coffee Can’t Fix Everything, we sit down with guests from the community—leaders, advocates, and everyday people—to have real, unfiltered discussions about mental health, wellness, and the struggles we all face. No scripts. No pre-planned topics. Just open and honest dialogue over a good cup of coffee. Because while coffee helps, it can’t fix everything.
12episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Everything and Nothing: Rest, Identity, and Shadow Work with Vanessa McNeal
2w ago00:47:39Tap to summarizeRest isn’t laziness—it’s required for healing. In this episode, Corey Dion Lewis and Vanessa talk rest, burnout, high‑achiever anxiety, parts work, inner child healing, and learning you’re worthy beyond your roles or productivity.Welcome to Coffee Can’t Fix Everything: mental health over a cup of coffee with host Corey Dion Lewis.Meet Vanessa: speaker and MSW‑trained coach who works with high achievers on rest, regulation, and reclaiming their center.Rest, worth, and burnoutWhy we were taught to “earn” rest by doing everything first—and how that mindset leads to exhaustion and burnout.Rest as prerequisite, not prize: being in your center so you can pour into work, family, and community without self‑betrayal.The difference between real rest and escape (phone scrolling, overworking, procrastination, numbing out).Identity beyond rolesCorey’s struggle with defining himself as “Corey the father, podcaster, community advocate” and how that fuels burnout.Vanessa’s first step: list every role you identify with, then recognize none of them are your core identity.Remembering yourself as a multi‑dimensional being instead of a fixed job title or label.Parts work and inner child“Characters” vs parts: why you feel different in every room and how internal family systems (IFS) explains it.The five‑year‑old, 25‑year‑old, and “last‑year you” that still live inside you—and why none of them need to be deleted.Letting your most aligned, present‑day self “drive the bus” while still honoring younger parts that once protected you.Parenting and breaking cyclesHow Vanessa and her husband intentionally “program” their kids with safety, permission to make mistakes, and unconditional love.The nightly affirmation: “I love you for who you are, not what you do,” and how our voice becomes our children’s inner voice.Corey on raising teens with calm, safety, and openness so his kids know they can always come to Dad, even when they mess up.Failure, crumbling, and new meaningWhen jobs, money, and opportunities fall apart, and how those “crumblings” uncover what can’t be taken from you.Seeing painful seasons as material for awakening to your inherent worth instead of proof that you’re a failure.“Everything is neutral until given meaning”: going back to old memories, feeling the pain, and choosing a new, truer story.Shadow work and sitting in the tensionWhy sitting with your thoughts for 10 minutes can feel like an hour—and why we grab our phones to avoid it.The difference between wallowing in pain and actually digesting, processing, and integrating it.How doing this work lets you help others from a place of truth instead of performance or people‑pleasing.Vanessa’s world nowLiving unapologetically expressed: saying what she wants to say, when she wants to say it, without needing to play a role.A weekly “rest day”: barefoot in nature, blanket by a tree, breathing and remembering she’s part of the world, not just grinding in it.Centering motherhood, marriage, service, and self‑care so her cup is full enough to pour into others.ClosingVanessa’s final message to the listener who needed this conversation today: you already know the one thing you need to do—trust what’s showing up and stop overthinking it.Corey closes with the mission of Coffee Can’t Fix Everything: the more we talk about mental health, the more normal these conversations becomeCrisis support (U.S.)These resources are for information only and may not replace professional medical advice. If you are in immediate danger, please contact your local emergency number.988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call/text/chat 988) – Free, confidential support 24/7 for suicidal thoughts, emotional distress, substance use, or if you’re worried about someone else.Website: 988lifeline.orgNAMI HelpLine – Information, resource referrals, and peer support for individuals, families, and caregivers. Available Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–10 p.m. ET.Phone: 800‑950‑NAMI (6264)Text: “NAMI” to 62640Website: nami.org/helpU.S. mental health information & treatmentSAMHSA Mental Health – Education on mental health, plus links to treatment locators for substance use and behavioral health.Website: samhsa.gov/mental-healthCDC Mental Health Resources – Overview of hotlines, treatment locators, and basic‑needs support (housing, food, etc.).Website: cdc.gov/mental-healthCulturally responsive & identity‑affirming careTherapy for Black Men – Therapist directory and support specifically for Black men, focused on judgment‑free, culturally competent care.Website: therapyforblackmen.orgTherapy for Black Girls – Directory of Black women therapists, plus a podcast, blog, and community for Black women and girls.Website: therapyforblackgirls.comInclusive Therapists – Therapist directory centering marginalized identities, with filters for race/ethnicity, gender identity, faith, neurodivergence, sliding‑scale fees, and virtual care.Website: inclusivetherapists.com
Transcribe →Healing-Centered Engagement, Generational Trauma, and the Power of “How Are You?” with Christine Her of ArtForce Iowa
3w ago00:42:54Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Coffee Can’t Fix Everything, Corey sits down with Christine Her, Executive Director of ArtForce Iowa, for a raw conversation about mental health, healing-centered engagement, and what happens when we ask “How are you?” and actually mean it.Christine shares her story as a Hmong American daughter of refugee parents, navigating generational trauma, cultural expectations, and the pressure to “be successful” while knowing art was the one thing that kept her alive. She explains how ArtForce Iowa uses creativity and community to create spaces where young people—especially those from marginalized backgrounds—can see themselves, tell their stories, and transform through art instead of being “fixed” by systems.Corey and Christine talk about the loneliness epidemic, why community care is essential for mental health, and how healing-centered engagement moves beyond trauma-informed care by focusing on identity, hope, and collective healing. They dig into breaking stereotypes about Black men and vulnerability, what it looks like to normalize “I love you” between friends, and why you shouldn’t ask “How are you?” if you’re not ready to hold the truth.If you’ve ever struggled with shame, family wounds, or the fear of being “too much,” this episode is a gentle invitation to stop saying no to yourself, build community, and meet yourself more deeply.Corey is not a therapist; this podcast is for storytelling and stigma-breaking, not medical advice. If you need support, please check the mental health resources linked in the show notes.About today’s guest: Christine Her (Executive Director, ArtForce Iowa)What is ArtForce Iowa and how art becomes a space for youth to be seen, held, and heard.Moving from “transforming youth in need” to “creating opportunities for youth to transform through art” (dropping the savior complex).The “How are you?” PSA during COVID and what it taught Christine about connection, fear, and youth mental health.Breaking stereotypes about Black men, strength, and silence around therapy.Healing-centered engagement vs. trauma-informed care: focusing on identity, hope, and community-based healing.Generational trauma, refugee parents, and learning that “they didn’t know how to love me the way I needed.”Shame, “pitching a tent but not building a house,” and learning not to live where you feel like you’re the worst version of yourself.The powerful reminder: “Don’t say no to yourself—let someone else tell you no.”Links mentionedArtForce Iowa: https://artforceiowa.orgHealing-Centered Engagement (Shawn Ginwright overview): https://www.boardingschoolhealing.org/resource-database/the-future-of-healing-shifting-from-trauma-informed-care-to-healing-centeredMental health resources (with links)https://www.iowahealthieststate.com/back-the-black988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 or chat via 988lifeline.org for free, confidential support 24/7 if you or someone you know is in emotional distress, suicidal crisis, or experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis.Info: https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/988Info: https://www.nami.org/advocacy-at-nami/crisis-intervention/988-reimagining-crisis-responseMental Health America – Screening tools, educational resources, and links to local support and immediate help.Resources for immediate response: https://mhanational.org/resources/resources-for-immediate-response/National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Education, support groups, and help finding local services for individuals and families.Find support and crisis resources via NAMI: https://www.nami.orgSAMHSA National Helpline – 1-800-662-HELP (4357), a free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information service for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders in the U.S.https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helplineCrisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the U.S. to connect with a trained crisis counselor, free and available 24/7.https://www.crisistextline.orgFind a therapist (U.S.) – You can search for licensed mental health professionals by location, insurance, and specialty.Psychology Today therapist directory: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists
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Navigating Life Transitions with Patricia Barbee
Jan 1900:35:00Tap to summarizeSupport the show Help sustain independent mental health conversations https://buymeacoffee.com/coreydionlewisStay connected Sign up for the Healthy Project Media newsletter for new episodes and resources www.healthyprojectmedia.comIn this powerful episode, host Corey Dion Lewis sits down with Patricia Barbee (Patty), Executive Director of Project Bridging and educator, for an honest conversation about navigating life's transitions.From morning routines to major life changes, Patty shares her wisdom on helping youth and adults alike move through difficult transitions with grace and intention. They discuss the importance of mentorship, positive reinforcement, love languages, and why sometimes you just need to "be positive or be quiet."KEY TOPICS:• Understanding transition in childhood and adulthood• The power of mentorship and community• Love languages beyond romantic relationships• Positive consequences and reinforcement• Getting out of your own way• Why asking questions matters• Building routines that support growthABOUT THE GUEST:Patricia Adrienne Barbee is an educator and the Executive Director of Project Bridging, a program focused on middle school students during their critical transition years. With over 20 years in early childhood education, Patty is passionate about advocating for children and helping them navigate life's changes.MEMORABLE QUOTES:"Be positive or be quiet.""If you care, you will learn.""Give yourself time to adjust to things.""You're worth it. Get you some help and get you some people who love you."RESOURCES:Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/coreydionlewisNewsletter: www.healthyprojectmedia.comCoffee Can't Fix Everything is a mental health podcast that breaks stigma through authentic conversation. If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out to a mental health professional.CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 - Introduction & Welcome00:09 - Meet Patricia Barbee: Educator & Advocate01:39 - The Shoe Game & Personal Style02:34 - Corey's Journey: Turning 42 & Transitions03:30 - What Makes Transition So Hard?04:40 - Learning from Early Childhood: Daily Transitions05:55 - The Role of Mentorship in Transition06:36 - Middle School: The Lost Land08:00 - Love Languages & How We Receive Care09:45 - Asking the Right Questions11:27 - "Be Positive or Be Quiet"12:41 - Fighting Through the Quicksand14:53 - From Wasting Time to Investing in Yourself16:41 - It's Okay to Say "This Isn't For Me"18:04 - Consequences: Positive & Negative19:52 - Believing in Yourself More Than Outside Voices20:52 - Patty's Personal Transitions: Loss & Healing22:00 - The Power of Positive Reinforcement23:03 - Every Day is a Fresh Start25:42 - Morning Routines & Self-Care27:38 - Building Your Village29:04 - Learning to Be Yourself30:47 - Not a Morning Person: Embracing Your Process32:26 - Final Advice: Give Yourself Time34:11 - Closing Thoughts: You're Worth ItMental health resourceshttps://www.iowahealthieststate.com/back-the-blackCall or text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (24/7, free, confidential) https://988lifeline.orgNational Alliance on Mental Illness (education and support) https://www.nami.orgMental Health America screening tools and resources https://www.mhanational.orgTherapy for Black Men directory https://therapyforblackmen.orgFind a therapist near you https://www.psychologytoday.com
Transcribe →I Didn’t Feel Seen Until I Started Podcasting (with Emili Johnson)
May 2100:45:30Tap to summarizeIn 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 SupportText 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
Transcribe →Pressure, Identity & Mental Health as a Creative
Apr 30, 202500:37:37Tap to summarizeSteven 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.orgNAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness): https://nami.orgMental Health America: https://mhanational.orgThe Steve Fund (Supporting the mental health of young people of color): https://www.stevefund.orgCrisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 or visit https://www.crisistextline.orgStay 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 guesthttps://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
Transcribe →Mental Health, Murals & Representation
Apr 24, 202500:24:50Tap to summarizeWhat 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 communityMental health and creativity as a BIPOC artistWhy faceless portraits create deeper emotional connectionCommunity-driven art and youth collaborationNavigating the art industry and pricing your work fairlyHow murals can empower young artists and change public spacesIf 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
Transcribe →Leading Through Life: Navigating Disappointment, Balance, and Growth
Mar 5, 202500:40:09Tap to summarizeIn 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 guest02:20 - The realities of leadership: balancing passion with the unexpected challenges07:03 - Burnout and work stress: why setting boundaries is key to long-term success10:37 - Dealing with disappointment and navigating rejection as a leader15:43 - Parenting and leadership: lessons from raising kids while leading a career20:28 - The power of faith and mental health in staying resilient through tough times24:33 - The importance of self-reflection and how to develop a growth mindset28:05 - Emotional intelligence and staying in control of your emotions in high-pressure moments32:00 - The power of mentorship, community leadership, and giving back37:09 - The reality of nonprofit management and work-life balance40:27 - Final thoughts: How to stay anchored in your values and keep moving forwardTune 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/coreydionlewisFollow Coffee Can’t Fix Everything for more real conversations on mental health and leadershipLearn more about our guest and their workConnect with us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Transcribe →Forgiveness vs. Healing: Overcoming Trauma with Courageous Fire
Feb 13, 202500:34:05Tap to summarizeIn 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 encouragementKey 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 ChildNational 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 741741https://www.crisistextline.org 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Free 24/7 support for those in crisis or distress. Call 988https://988lifeline.orgThe Trevor Project – Mental health and crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth. Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678678https://www.thetrevorproject.orgRAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) – Support for survivors of sexual violence. Call 800-656-HOPE (4673)https://www.rainn.orgSAMHSA National Helpline – Free and confidential treatment referral and support. Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357)https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helplineBlack Mental Health & Trauma ResourcesTherapy for Black Girls – Mental health support for Black women & girls.https://www.therapyforblackgirls.comTherapy for Black Men – Directory of therapists specializing in Black men’s mental health.https://www.therapyforblackmen.orgThe Loveland Foundation – Mental health resources & therapy funds for Black women & girls.https://thelovelandfoundation.orgBlack Mental Health Alliance – Free resources & support for the Black community.https://blackmentalhealth.comDomestic Violence & Trauma SupportNational Domestic Violence Hotline – Free, 24/7 support for domestic abuse survivors. Call 800-799-7233 or text START to 88788https://www.thehotline.orgNational Resource Center on Domestic Violence – Education & support for domestic violence survivors.https://www.nrcdv.orgResilience (Sexual Assault Services) – Trauma-informed support for sexual violence survivors.https://www.ourresilience.orgFind a TherapistPsychology Today – Therapist Directoryhttps://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapistsOpen Path Collective – Affordable Therapyhttps://openpathcollective.orgInclusive Therapists – Culturally responsive therapy resourceshttps://www.inclusivetherapists.com
Transcribe →Asking for help isn’t failure—it’s survival.
Jan 13, 202500:37:56Tap to summarizeIn 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 show1:27 - The host’s personal journey to therapy and confronting the fear of asking for help3:17 - Max’s experience with therapy and its transformative impact5:18 - LGBTQ+ mental health advocacy and addressing barriers to care7:40 - Cultural challenges in accessing mental health support in marginalized communities10:28 - What authentic allyship looks like in action15:21 - The power of pronouns and small gestures in creating safe spaces18:23 - The stark difference in mental health resources between urban and rural areas20:45 - How leaders and advocates can balance busy lives with seeking help26:33 - Unlearning toxic masculinity and embracing vulnerability as a strength28:13 - Building community support to normalize mental health care32:53 - Max’s advice to those hesitant to ask for helpMental Health Resources:National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): www.nami.orgCrisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for free, 24/7 crisis supportTherapy for Black Men: www.therapyforblackmen.orgThe Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ Youth): www.thetrevorproject.orgOne Iowa (LGBTQ+ Resources): www.oneiowa.orgPsychology Today’s Therapist Finder: www.psychologytoday.comRemember, you are not alone, and help is available. Let’s break the stigma one conversation at a time.
Transcribe →Jill 2.0: Embracing Change and Finding Resilience
Aug 26, 202400:31:29Tap to summarizeIn 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 Welcome01:23 - The Power of Change: Jill's Early Life and Resilience03:29 - Coping with Loss and Health Challenges07:47 - Redefining Identity and Prioritizing Family13:31 - The Importance of Vulnerability and Accountability16:54 - Moving Beyond Comfort: Advice for Those Stuck in Their "Crap"20:28 - Empowering Change and Reclaiming Control24:29 - The Fluidity of Change and Embracing Imperfection28:06 - Advice for the Future Self: Speaking Truth to Power30:51 - Closing Thoughts and Upcoming My City My Health EventMental 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 AmericaSubstance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)Crisis Text Line - Text "HELLO" to 741741Therapy for Black GirlsRemember, 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!
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