Podcast
We're Not OK: A Community of Healing
Hosted by Antija Allen and Justin Stewart · EN
Join Dr. Antija Allen and Justin T. Stewart, world renowned speakers and co-editors of the bestselling book and outstanding academic title of 2023, We're Not OK: Black Faculty Experiences and Higher Education Strategies, for their podcast where they deliver captivating conversations with amazing individuals from various industries. Guests will focus on topics such as diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, social justice, mental health, and current events.
10episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Leading with Love w/ Yashmine Cooper
May 800:53:40Tap to summarizeClosing out the phenomenal sixth season of We're Not OK, we're proud to introduce Yashmine Cooper—educational leader, mindset coach, speaker, and founder of Leading with Love Consulting.With nearly two decades of experience in K–12 education, Yashmine joins the conversation to unpack the realities of burnout among women leaders and the hidden emotional, mental, and personal costs that often come with constantly showing up for others. We explore how leadership rooted in overwork can lead to exhaustion, disconnection, and even the loss of identity beneath professional titles and expectations. Yashmine shares how her frameworks, including Power Pause and LeadHER, help leaders reclaim their time, regulate their energy, establish boundaries, and move from survival mode toward more sustainable and aligned leadership. The conversation also highlights real stories of transformation and what becomes possible when leaders prioritize well-being without abandoning their purpose.This season finale is an honest and healing discussion about redefining success, challenging toxic leadership norms, and creating lives that feel as good as they look on paper.Connect with Yashmine.Connect with the hosts, Dr. Antija Allen & Justin Stewart.
Transcribe →
Problk Health w/ Dr. Karleena Tuggle-McDaniel & Darian McDaniel
Apr 900:59:43Tap to summarizeToday, we are joined by Problk Health co-founders Dr. Karleena Tuggle-McDaniel —a board-certified bariatric surgeon—and Darian McDaniel—a marketing executive with 20+ years of C-suite experience— as they share the personal journey that led them to build a wellness brand rooted in purpose, prevention, and community impact to transform Black health. Together, we explore the real impact of healthcare gaps in Black communities, the rise of preventable chronic conditions, and how Problk Health was created to offer solutions that meet those needs. From choosing the right vitamins and supplements to avoiding harmful or ineffective options, this conversation is both practical and eye-opening. Grounded in purpose, D. K and Darian also discuss their commitment to reinvesting in organizations and initiatives that support health and healing—turning individual wellness into community impact. This episode is a powerful reminder: if we don’t prioritize our health early, we’ll feel it later. Connect with the Dr. K & Darian:Visit their website:Problk Health Vitamins - Black Doctor Owned Vitamin Company – PROBLK HEALTHCheck out their mission: Our Mission – PROBLK HEALTHFollow them on InstagramConnect with the hosts:Follow the Book @notokbookprojectFollow the Podcast @thenotokpodcastFollow Dr. Antija Allen @antijaallenFollow Justin Stewart @justwrite_stewart87Subscribe to our NEW YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@thenotokpodcastLinktree: linktr.ee/notokbookprojectBook Us Dr. Antija Allen & Justin T. Stewart - Introductory Call | TidyCal https://tidycal.com/allenivyprep/introductory-meeting If you’re struggling, consider therapy with our sponsor. Visit https://betterhelp.com/thenotokpod for a discount on your first month of therapy. If you have questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are credentialed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation, here is an overview written by the YouTube creators behind the channel Cinema Therapy that goes into these topics: https://www.reddit.com/r/cinema_therapy/comments/1dpriql/addressing_the_betterhelp_concerns_headon_deep/
Transcribe →
Unmasking Brilliance: Black Women with ADHD w/ Drs. Chinyere Oparah and Loucresie Rupert
Mar 2700:51:19Tap to summarizeIn this powerful Women’s History Month episode, Dr. Antija Allen leads an intimate and affirming conversation centering the lived experiences of Black women with ADHD, stories too often overlooked, misunderstood, or misdiagnosed.Joined by Dr. Chinyere Oparah and Dr. Loucresie Rupert, this episode explores what it means to be brilliant in systems that were not built for you. Together, they unpack late diagnoses, the emotional weight of “what could have been,” and the invisible labor of navigating life through workarounds that were never named.Dr. Chinyere Oparah is an educator, author, and executive leadership coach who supports visionary leaders in navigating complex systems. As the founder of NeuroSpicy Leaders and the Center for Liberated Leadership, she brings more than 30 years of experience in higher education and nonprofit leadership, including roles as dean, provost, and vice president. Her work challenges deficit narratives and advances sustainable, courageous approaches to leadership.Dr. Loucresie Rupert is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist specializing in ADHD, autism, and neurodivergence. She is co-founder of Physician Women SOAR and a member of BLACK. Her work centers mental health, trauma, and equity across multiple identities, and she brings both clinical expertise and lived insight into this conversation.From hyperfocus to burnout, from misdiagnosis to self-discovery, this conversation reframes ADHD through a lens of strength, adaptability, and cultural context. You will hear how masking shows up in leadership, how success can coexist with struggle, and why community and collective care are essential tools for thriving.This is more than a conversation about ADHD. It is about identity, survival, and reclaiming the fullness of who you are.If you have ever questioned your capacity, your pace, or your path, this episode is a mirror, a validation, and a reminder. Your brilliance was never the problem.Connect with our guests:Dr. Loucresie Rupertwww.insightfulconsultant.orgFacebook: Insightful Consultant LLCLinkedIn: Dr. Loucresie Rupert | LinkedInDr. Chinyere Oparah https://www.neurospicyleaders.com/Follow @neurospicyleaders on IGResourcesArticle on the power of ND leadership: https://www.neurospicyleaders.com/post/when-the-system-cracks-open-neurospicy-leaders-and-the-evolution-of-leadershipCoaching for ADHD/ND leaders and entrepreneurs: https://www.neurospicyleaders.com/FocusCafé Body doubling space for leaders, changemakers and entrepreneurs: https://www.neurospicyleaders.com/focuscafeAI FocusPartner -digital ally tailored to support ND professionals: https://www.neurospicyleaders.com/focuspartnerConnect with the hosts:Follow the Book @notokbookprojectFollow the Podcast @thenotokpodcastFollow Dr. Antija Allen @antijaallenFollow Justin Stewart @justwrite_stewart87Subscribe to our NEW YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@thenotokpodcastLinktree: linktr.ee/notokbookprojectBook Us Dr. Antija Allen & Justin T. Stewart - Introductory Call | TidyCal https://tidycal.com/allenivyprep/introductory-meeting If you’re struggling, consider therapy with our sponsor. Visit https://betterhelp.com/thenotokpod for a discount on your first month of therapy. If you have questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are credentialed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation, here is an overview written by the YouTube creators behind the channel Cinema Therapy that goes into these topics: https://www.reddit.com/r/cinema_therapy/comments/1dpriql/addressing_the_betterhelp_concerns_headon_deep/
Transcribe →
Hidden Wounds: Healing from Shame w/ Telvin Peterson
Mar 1300:55:25Tap to summarizeToday, we sit down with Telvin Peterson, Licensed Professional Counselor, Addictions Counselor, and founder of Inner Depth Counseling & Consulting LLC.Drawing from his work within the Department of Corrections, Telvin shares insights from supporting incarcerated men navigating trauma, shame, addiction, and deep emotional barriers. Together, we explore how relational trauma, imposter syndrome, and the pressure to perform masculinity can keep people stuck in survival mode.Telvin also challenges common myths about addiction and discusses how substance use disorders are often rooted in unresolved trauma.From correctional facilities to community spaces, this conversation reflects on what it takes to move from silence and survival toward vulnerability, self-leadership, and healing.Connect with Telvin:TikTok @mrpthetherapistPsychology Today: Inner Depth Counseling & Consulting LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, Florence, SC, 29505 | Psychology TodayConnect with the hosts:Follow the Book @notokbookprojectFollow the Podcast @thenotokpodcastFollow Dr. Antija Allen @antijaallenFollow Justin Stewart @justwrite_stewart87Subscribe to our NEW YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@thenotokpodcastLinktree: linktr.ee/notokbookprojectBook Us Dr. Antija Allen & Justin T. Stewart - Introductory Call | TidyCal https://tidycal.com/allenivyprep/introductory-meeting If you’re struggling, consider therapy with our sponsor. Visit https://betterhelp.com/thenotokpod for a discount on your first month of therapy. If you have questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are credentialed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation, here is an overview written by the YouTube creators behind the channel Cinema Therapy that goes into these topics: https://www.reddit.com/r/cinema_therapy/comments/1dpriql/addressing_the_betterhelp_concerns_headon_deep/
Transcribe →
The Psychology of Generational Trauma w/ Dr. Justin S. Hopkins
Feb 2700:53:38Tap to summarizeWe’re joined by Dr. Justin S. Hopkins, a clinical psychologist, psychoanalytic scholar, and founder of Hopkins Behavioral Health, a BIPOC-focused therapy practice in Washington, DC. Through his clinical work, speaking engagements, and organizational partnerships, Dr. Hopkins applies the psychology of trauma to issues of identity, race, and the stress and pain underlying societal challenges. Together, we explore how identity begins to form and how intergenerational trauma is transmitted through both what is spoken and what remains unspoken. Dr. Hopkins unpacks the difference between stress and trauma, how unresolved pain can be projected into present relationships, and how generational patterns can be unknowingly reinforced. We also discuss misconceptions about healing, the role of formal therapy—particularly psychoanalytic therapy—in breaking cycles, and the broader cultural forces contributing to what many describe as “the anxious generation.”This episode invites us to become more aware of the hidden forces shaping our lives—and how intentional healing can move us toward greater freedom and joy.Connect with the hosts:Follow the Book @notokbookprojectFollow the Podcast @thenotokpodcastFollow Dr. Antija Allen @antijaallenFollow Justin Stewart @justwrite_stewart87Subscribe to our NEW YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@thenotokpodcastLinktree: linktr.ee/notokbookprojectBook Us Dr. Antija Allen & Justin T. Stewart - Introductory Call | TidyCalIf you’re struggling, consider therapy with our sponsor. Visit https://betterhelp.com/thenotokpod for a discount on your first month of therapy. If you have questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are credentialed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation, here is an overview written by the YouTube creators behind the channel Cinema Therapy that goes into these topics: https://www.reddit.com/r/cinema_therapy/comments/1dpriql/addressing_the_betterhelp_concerns_headon_deep/
Transcribe →
When Parenthood Meets Mental Wellness — Featuring Patience Riley
Feb 1300:55:46Tap to summarizeParenthood can bring joy, growth, and unexpected mental health challenges. In this episode of We’re Not OK: A Community of Healing, we’re joined by Patience Riley, Licensed Professional Counselor and certified perinatal mental health specialist.With 14 years of experience, Patience supports individuals and families navigating parenthood and mental wellness through therapy, parental leave coaching, yoga, and organizational wellness programming. Her work spans clinical, community, and military settings, and she is a national advocate through her leadership with Postpartum Support International.Together, we explore maternal mental health, family and workplace transitions, and strategies for supporting individuals and families through critical life moments.Connect with Patience RileyWebsite: www.whoamamas.comEmail: info@whoamamas.comTherapy: GA & NE residentsYoga Services: U.S. & InternationalConnect with the hosts:Follow the Book @notokbookprojectFollow the Podcast @thenotokpodcastFollow Dr. Antija Allen @antijaallenFollow Justin Stewart @justwrite_stewart87Subscribe to our NEW YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@thenotokpodcastLinktree: linktr.ee/notokbookprojectBook Us Dr. Antija Allen & Justin T. Stewart - Introductory Call | TidyCalResources Mentioned in This EpisodeTherapy Support Funds & Programs• Loveland Foundation — Therapy fund for Black women and girls• Georgia Perinatal Action Fund — Support for GA residents navigating fertility, pregnancy, loss, and postpartum (up to 1 year)• Black Girls Smile — Therapy Assistance Program• Black Men Heal — Services available in PA, NJ, DE, NYC, MD, D.C., VA, GAPostpartum Support International (PSI)Free support resources including support groups, peer mentor programs, and provider directorieswww.postpartum.netIf you or someone you know is navigating parenthood and mental wellness challenges, this conversation offers insight, support, and resources.If you’re struggling, consider therapy with our sponsor. Visit https://betterhelp.com/thenotokpod for a discount on your first month of therapy. If you have questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are credentialed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation, here is an overview written by the YouTube creators behind the channel Cinema Therapy that goes into these topics: https://www.reddit.com/r/cinema_therapy/comments/1dpriql/addressing_the_betterhelp_concerns_headon_deep/
Transcribe →
The Center for Black Health & Equity — Featuring Bryce Kahari
Jan 3000:54:49Tap to summarizeToday we are joined by Bryce Kahari (he/him) — a facilitator, storyteller, and public health leader dedicated to strengthening communities and advancing equity.Bryce serves as Cancer Program Manager at The Center for Black Health & Equity, where he leads initiatives focused on cancer prevention and advancing equitable health outcomes. His work has spanned tobacco control, substance use, LGBTQI+ health, racial equity, and youth engagement — all grounded in a deep commitment to advocacy and community empowerment. Bryce was recognized as National Youth Advocate of the Year by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, reflecting a long-standing commitment to creating meaningful change.In our conversation, Bryce shares insight on what it takes to move from awareness to action, the critical role equity plays in public health, and how advocacy and storytelling can help transform communities.This is a thoughtful dialogue about leadership, impact, and the responsibility we all share in building a more just and healthier future.Connect with the hosts:Follow the Book @notokbookprojectFollow the Podcast @thenotokpodcastFollow Dr. Antija Allen @antijaallenFollow Justin Stewart @justwrite_stewart87Subscribe to our NEW YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@thenotokpodcastLinktree: linktr.ee/notokbookprojectBook Us Dr. Antija Allen & Justin T. Stewart - Introductory Call | TidyCalIf you’re struggling, consider therapy with our sponsor. Visit https://betterhelp.com/thenotokpod for a discount on your first month of therapy. If you have questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are credentialed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation, here is an overview written by the YouTube creators behind the channel Cinema Therapy that goes into these topics: https://www.reddit.com/r/cinema_therapy/comments/1dpriql/addressing_the_betterhelp_concerns_headon_deep/
Transcribe →
Create Your Own Happiness — Featuring Dr. Kiki Ramsey
Jan 1600:58:15Tap to summarizeWelcome back to We’re Not OK: A Community of Healing, and welcome to 2026.We kick off the new season of We’re Not OK: A Community of Healing with Dr. Kiki Ramsey, PhD, MCC, Positive Psychologist, Career Coach, Forbes contributor, author, and CEO of the Positive Psychology Coaching & Diversity Institute (PPCaDI). Dr. Kiki joins us to unpack purpose, courage, belonging, and what it really means to thrive at work without losing yourself. Drawing on 15+ years of research and coaching, she shares insights on resilience, inclusive leadership, and her Positively Diverse Leadership framework—offering practical tools to move from survival to sustainable well-being.This is the refresh you need to kick off your year. Listen now and start the shift from surviving to thriving.Connect with Dr. Kiki:Websites:www.kikiramsey.comwww.ppcadi.comSocial Media:Facebook: @drkikiramseyLinkedIn: @drkikiramseyInstagram: @drkikiramseyUpcoming Events: Thrive26 Women’s Conference: July 10–12, 2026, at the Marriott Northeast/Emory Area (2000 Century Blvd NE, Atlanta, GA 30345). Registration details are coming soon.Thrive Society: a free community of ambitious women focused on growth, accountability, sisterhood, and mentorship.Connect with the hosts:Follow the Book @notokbookprojectFollow the Podcast @thenotokpodcastFollow Dr. Antija Allen @antijaallenFollow Justin Stewart @justwrite_stewart87Subscribe to our NEW YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@thenotokpodcastLinktree: linktr.ee/notokbookprojectBook Us Dr. Antija Allen & Justin T. Stewart - Introductory Call | TidyCalIf you’re struggling, consider therapy with our sponsor. Visit https://betterhelp.com/thenotokpod for a discount on your first month of therapy. If you have questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are credentialed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation, here is an overview written by the YouTube creators behind the channel Cinema Therapy that goes into these topics: https://www.reddit.com/r/cinema_therapy/comments/1dpriql/addressing_the_betterhelp_concerns_headon_deep/
Transcribe →
Unmasked: Healing Identity for Relationships — Featuring Carrington Brown
Dec 1200:59:53Tap to summarizeFor our Season 5 finale, we sit down with the wise and wonderfully candid Carrington Brown, Licensed Therapist and Relationship Coach; to explore the real reasons we show up the way we do in relationships. Whether you’re married, divorced, dating, or preparing yourself for the partnership you want, this conversation offers the kind of clarity that shifts how you see yourself and the people you choose.Carrington opens the door to the patterns we inherit, the wounds we carry, and the expectations we never learned to name. Together, we unpack why some marriages unravel long before therapy starts, how to recognize misalignment early, and what it takes to build relationships rooted in emotional honesty instead of habit.This episode is part laughter, part revelation, and entirely an invitation to choose better for yourself. A beautiful close to Season 5.Connect with Carrington:https://www.thecarringtonbrown.comhttps://healtexas.clientsecure.meInstagram https://www.instagram.com/thecarringtonbrown/?hl=enTik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@thecarringtonbrownConnect with the hosts:Follow the Book @notokbookprojectFollow the Podcast @thenotokpodcastFollow Dr. Antija Allen @antijaallenFollow Justin Stewart @justwrite_stewart87Subscribe to our NEW YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@thenotokpodcastLinktree: linktr.ee/notokbookprojectBook Us Dr. Antija Allen & Justin T. Stewart - Introductory Call | TidyCalIf you’re struggling, consider therapy with our sponsor. Visit https://betterhelp.com/thenotokpod for a discount on your first month of therapy. If you have questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are credentialed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation, here is an overview written by the YouTube creators behind the channel Cinema Therapy that goes into these topics: https://www.reddit.com/r/cinema_therapy/comments/1dpriql/addressing_the_betterhelp_concerns_headon_deep/
Transcribe →
Money, Mindset & Healing: Steven M. Hughes on Rewiring Your Financial Life
Dec 500:54:08Tap to summarizeIn this episode of We’re Not OK: A Community of Healing, we sit down with Steven M. Hughes—Financial Therapist, Certified Financial Behavior Specialist®, and Reiki Master Teacher to unpack how we think, feel, and behave with money.We explore the emotional and energetic roots of financial habits, including:✨ Becoming a financial faucet for your family✨ Navigating the tension between scarcity fears and YOLO spending✨ Building your “fun fund” without guilt✨ Why budgets fail without healing behavior underneathSteven shares compelling client success stories illustrating the power of blending financial psychology, behavioral finance, and Reiki energy work to create lasting transformation.A nationally recognized money expert, Steven serves as the on-air financial specialist for CBS-WLTX, has appeared on CNBC Your Money and CBS Money Watch, and partners with major brands like Google, Airbnb, and ABC News. He also equips campuses—including the University of Texas at Austin and the University of Pittsburgh to help students, faculty, and employees build clarity, confidence, and control over their finances.If you want practical strategies to heal your money mindset, shift your relationship with abundance, and take ownership of your financial journey, this conversation is for you.Tune in for tools, truth-telling, and a refreshed way of thinking about wealth, worth, and wellness.Want to bring Steven to your college or company? Contact him at: https://stevenmhughes.com/speaking/Connect with the hosts:Follow the Book @notokbookprojectFollow the Podcast @thenotokpodcastFollow Dr. Antija Allen @antijaallenFollow Justin Stewart @justwrite_stewart87Subscribe to our NEW YouTube Channel: We're Not OK: A Community of Healing - YouTubeLinktree: We're Not OK | Instagram, Facebook | LinktreeBook Us Dr. Antija Allen & Justin T. stewart - Introductory Call | TidyCal
Transcribe →