If you want to listen to the full episode (XYBM 160) from this clip, search for the title: "Ep. 160: Why Black Men Keep Surviving Instead of Thriving with Dr. Alfiee" — it was released on July 6, 2026.

In XYBM 160, we sit down with Dr. Alfiee, researcher, author, and nonprofit leader behind the Aakoma Project — one of the most comprehensive mental health research organizations focused on youth and young adults of color in the country. With over 30 years in the field, Dr. Alfie challenges the stereotypes baked into mainstream mental health research, breaks down what the data actually says about Black men across socioeconomic lines, and delivers a masterclass on the difference between surviving and thriving.

She introduces the Mosaic of Me identity framework from her book Rise and Thrive, gets real about compensation, self-worth, and what it means to know your value as a Black man, and shares her own personal history with depression — twice — including the story of public humiliation that followed her for eight years and the mindfulness practice that finally helped her heal.

Tune in on all podcast streaming platforms, including YouTube.

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