Episodes

7/7/26- Our special guest today, Dr. Julie Erickson, PhD, is an adult and geriatric clinical psychologist who is a nationally and internally sought after educator. Dr. Erickson is an Adjunct Faculty Member within the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto. Together with co-author Neil A. Rector, PhD she wrote, “The Aging Well Workbook for Anxiety & Depression,” which has received high praise from the esteemed Judith Beck, PhD, President of the Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Drawing upon skills in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with integrated aspects of Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Schema Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dr. Erickson helps individuals with a variety of mental health distress and disorder presentations make positive change in coping with life’s challenges. She’s also dedicated to transforming ideas on aging - itself - as understood and acted upon by the general public and mental health professionals. In that spirit, she provides evidence-based workshops for mental health providers on best practices in working with older adults including, for example, “Recognizing and Reducing Ageism in Mental Health Care.” Dr. Erickson holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from MacEwan University and Master of Arts and PhD in Psychology from the University of Manitoba. She completed her predoctoral residency training at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto, Canada with rotations in the Mood & Anxiety Outpatient Service and the Women’s Inpatient Unit. Her research has been published in peer-reviewed journals such as Depression & Anxiety, Cognitive and Behavioral Practice, Clinical Psychology Review, and the Journal of Anxiety Disorders, among others. She has brought her research findings to the public in meaningful ways. And adding to all this on a personal note, Dr. Erickson enjoys taking improv comedy classes! Learn more: www.drjulieerickson.comWatch here.

7/14/26- Dr. James “Jim” Jackson is an internationally renowned expert on long Covid and its effects on cognitive and mental health functioning. A licensed psychologist specializing in neuropsychology and cognitive rehabilitation, he completed his psychology residency at the Veteran’s Affairs/Vanderbilt University School of Medicine Consortium while also receiving post-doctoral training in cognitive rehabilitation at the Oliver Zangwill Center in Ely, England. A pioneer in the investigation and treatment of Post–Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS),—a condition that impacts up to a third of survivors of critical illness—he is a research professor of Medicine and Psychiatry at Vanderbilt University, where he is also the co-founder and director of Behavioral Health at the award-winning ICU Recovery Center, one of the first comprehensive clinical resources devoted to diagnosing and treating survivors of both mild and critical illness, including those who survived Covid-19. Dr. Jackson is the author of over 150 scientific papers in leading peer-reviewed biomedical journals and his research has been highlighted in the pages of The New York Times, Scientific American, Time, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, and Wired, as well as on CNN and PBS among dozens of others. He's author of the 2023, “Clearing the Fog: From Surviving to Thriving with Long Covid—A Practical Guide” and the 2026 published, “Reclaiming Your Life from Medical Trauma: Recognize the Symptoms, Find Treatment That Works, and Heal Your Brain and Body.” Learn more about James Jackson, PsyD at www.jamescjackson.com and https://medicine.vumc.org/department-directory/James-Jackson. Watch here.

7/21/26- Our special guest on Talking Back 2 Suicide today is Ariella Maghen, MD, who completed her psychiatry residency in Ventura County, California, where she served as the Education Chief Resident. She earned her bachelor's degree from UCLA in Psychology followed by receiving her medical degree from the Technion–Israel Institute of Technology in Haifa, Israel. Throughout residency, Dr. Maghen worked with under served youth and adults in county and public-sector settings while developing interests in child and adolescent psychiatry, public psychiatry, mental health advocacy, and reducing stigma surrounding mental illness, especially among immigrant communities. She has published several first-author abstracts and articles in scientific journals, including The New England Journal of Medicine. Most recently, she co-authored an article in Academia Mental Health and Well-Being exploring the role of the visual performing arts in reducing mental health stigma and improving mental health literacy among adolescents and young adults from minority cultures. Read the article here: https://doi.org/10.20935/MHealthWellB8267Dr. Maghen will soon begin working as a psychiatrist in psychiatric emergency services and a clinical research physician in New York City. She is fluent in Hebrew and Farsi and enjoys visiting museums, skiing, exploring national parks, as well as discovering new Trader Joe's finds. Watch here.

7/28/26- Today's special guest on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Mark Blacknell, who in transforming his pain into purpose, is the author of, “Just Stare at the Wall! Living the Universe from Where You Sit.” From the working-class outskirts of Philadelphia, Mark Blacknell is not your typical meditation teacher. A former Teamster and U.S. Marine, he came home from service racked with PTSD and spent twenty years cycling through VA counseling, jobs, jails, and a substance abuse program before finding stability in the simplest possible practice: sitting still and facing a wall. Ordained in the Soto Zen tradition but now working independently, Mark teaches a stripped-down, accessible approach grounded in lived experience rather than hierarchy. He works with veterans, senior citizens, at-risk youth, athletes, and death row inmates across Florida. His teaching is plain-spoken, direct, and free of spiritual performance. Mark explains, “The hard part is not the knowing of what we ought to do. It’s doing of it, especially when our mind feels like it’s spinning out of control and everything feels loud, urgent, and overwhelming.” Mark’s meditation outreach is supported by donations and can also be available for free. Mark’s been a featured guest on the BBC and National Public Radio. Learn more about Mark and his services at: www.stareatthewall.org. Watch here.

6/2/26- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is world-renowned suicidologist, David A. Jobes, Ph.D., ABPP. Dr. Jobes is a Professor of Psychology, Associate Director of Clinical Training, and Director of the Suicide Prevention Lab at The Catholic University of America. His research and writing have produced over 150 peer-reviewed publications (including six books on clinical suicidology). He is a past President of the American Association of Suicidology (AAS) and recipient of that organization’s 1995 “Edwin Shneidman Award,” 2012 “Dublin Award,” and the 2016 “Marsha Linehan Award,” all in recognition of his research contributions to clinical suicidology. Dr. Jobe’s outreach as a suicide prevention consultant is formidable and includes his providing service to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institute of Mental Health, the FBI, Department of Defense, Veterans Affairs, and many more. He was a featured expert in the PBS 2022 “Facing Suicide” Documentary. About the Suicide Prevention Lab, their website states: “The research focus in our lab is broadly centered on suicide prevention. More specifically, we tend to study suicide risk assessment (both quantitatively and qualitatively) and treatment of suicidal risk in different suicidal populations across a range of clinical settings. Perhaps most importantly, our group at CUA has developed a novel therapeutic approach called the "Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality" which is a suicide-focused, evidence-based clinical framework. In recent years, we have been extensively engaged in randomized controlled trials of CAMS. Through replicated outcome across trials, we know that CAMS quickly reduces suicidal ideation, depression, and overall symptom distress, while increasing hope and clinical retention to care.” Learn more: https://sites.google.com/site/cuajsplab/home and
https://psychology.catholic.edu/faculty-and-research/faculty-profiles/jobes-david/index.html. Watch here.

6/9/26- Our special guest on today's Talking Back 2 Suicide is Samantha Foote. Samantha is a neurodivergent, board-certified music therapist, a registered Music Together teacher, and Founder of Boise Music Therapy Company, Every Brain is Different Podcast, and the Parenting with Confidence program. As the mother to three autistic children, Samantha is also a trained Positive Discipline Parent Educator, whereby she helps empower parents of neurodivergent children to feel confident, supported, and informed as they navigate the unique journey of raising their children. Through compassionate guidance and evidence-based strategies, Samantha aims to foster understanding, celebrate neurodiversity, and help families thrive. She received a Bachelor of Science degree from Utah State University and completed a Masters of Music with a specialization in Music Therapy degree from Colorado State University. Samantha is a Neurological Music Therapy Fellow and has specialized training as a Dialectical Behavior Therapy-informed Music Therapist. Learn more at: www.everybrainisdifferent.com and www.boisemusictherapycompany.com. Watch here.

6/16/26- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Eric Fisher who has a black belt in two martial arts styles - American Kenpo and Wadō-ryū (meaning Way of Harmony Style), and is a certified mental health counselor based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. He has over 13 years of experience working in outpatient and inpatient treatment settings in the US and Canada. He’s a master practitioner of Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), both of which are evidence-based treatments for trauma. His counseling approaches also include the evidenced-based CBT – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy treatment. He’s DBT Informed as in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and engages clients as appropriate in SFBT – Solution Focused Brief Therapy. At his private practice, named Recovery Arts Counselling, Eric serves individuals, couples, and families locally and remotely. He hosts the Recovery Arts podcast featuring with his invited guests discussions on addiction recovery, martial arts, men's health, mental health, emotional eating, ADHD, and much more. Eric is the author of “The Martial Art of Recovery: Self-Mastery Practices to Subdue Addiction and Achieve Mental Wellness,” that was published in 2024 and "Buried Alive, Four Ways to Free Yourself from the Dirt" published in 2025. Here’s what one reviewer had to say about Eric’s most recent book: "Buried Alive, Four Ways to Free Yourself from the Dirt" by Eric Fisher is a revelation. This impactful book is based on real-life events, with Eric brilliantly guiding his readers through his father’s near-death experience and subsequent learnings. Delivering profound insights, Eric transforms life's devastating lessons into teachable moments. His emphasis on community and spiritual wellness is truly inspiring. More than just a book, it’s a guide to stewarding our mental, emotional, and physical wellness." www.recoveryartscounselling.com & www.thethumbsupfoundation.com. Watch here. 

6/23/26- Cheri Carandanis, our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide, declares: “We all have scars. Every scar tells a story.” Cheri has a powerful story to share on how she overcame two life changing events six months apart that caused the “dismantling” of her life, putting an end to how she had once lived it. In 2019, Cheri suffered brain injury that ended her 25-year nursing career which included six years as an Air Force critical care flight nurse. “Overnight,” she says, “The life I trusted was gone, and I had to figure out who I was without the role that defined me. Suddenly, (she) - the healer - became the one in need of healing, and instead of “holding other people together,” Cheri had to learn how to “hold on” to herself. Creativity, art and painting became her lifelines. She became - transformed - into an abstract painter and also emerged as a Creative Guide. (show picture of the painting Scarred) About her paintings, Cheri says, “Through color and canvas, I create space for people to feel something real. And maybe, just maybe, not feel so alone in it.” Cheri now helps others, especially women, in navigating burnout, identity loss, faith shifts, such that they can reinvent themselves through and beyond their breaking points. Learn more at www.carandanisfineart.com. Watch here.

6/30/26- Today’s guest on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Karen Corona, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, HeART Healing Coach, author, and founder of Creative Heart Awakenings. Karen has over two decades of experience helping individuals heal from the effects of childhood relational trauma, family dysfunction, emotional neglect, and narcissistic abuse. Licensed in both Oregon and California, she integrates Expressive Arts Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and recovery principles to support core emotional healing and transformation. In 2024, Karen published her book, HeART Healing for Radiant Living, and she developed her HeART Healing Signature Program, a coaching process inspired by her own healing journey and years of clinical experience. Through her work, Karen helps women to release emotional pain and heal in order to embody more joy, freedom, and abundance in their lives. She believes that healing is always possible and her own mental health journey is a testament to this as she has navigated the darkness to now embrace the light. Learn more at: http://www.karencoronalcsw.com. Purchase the book, HeART Healing for Radiant Living, on Amazon. Watch here

5/5/26- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Pam Dwyer whose lessons learned from the fire of her lived experiences are uplifting those in despair. Pam says, “Growing up in chaos taught me to look at every angle of a problem and make it work. So I used what I had, a lifetime of resilience, creativity, and a heart trained to serve. I took every storm I’d ever survived and built something out of it.” She describes herself as a lighthouse and shows us how we can still shine our light upon ourselves and others: “I’ve learned to use pain as energy. Each jagged piece of my past became a stepping stone, healing that curled-up little one inside me. And as I healed, that light within grew brighter, more powerful than ever before. Now, I shine that light outward, guiding others who still sit in the silence, showing them that even in the darkest rooms, there’s always a path out.” About that suffocating silence in which we may live , she explains: “The sound of silence in abuse isn’t just about what’s missing; it’s about what’s screaming beneath the surface. The unheard cries. The unseen pain. And sometimes, breaking that silence doesn’t come with a shout. Sometimes, it comes with a whisper: I see you. I know. You’re not alone. If you’ve felt that silence, if you’ve lived it, you know its weight. But you also know the power in breaking it. Even if your voice shakes. Even if it starts with nothing more than a whisper. Because the loudest sound in a silent world? Hope." Pam is a compassionate storyteller, motivational speaker, podcast host of Delay the Binge, and author of the memoir, Behind the Piney Woods, under her pen name, P. J. Hamilton. Learn more at: www.tpkkconcepts.com. Watch here.

5/12/26- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Jen Cheng, storyteller, poet, writer, musician, improviser, and artist. Honored as the fifth West Hollywood City Poet Laureate and author of Braided Spaces, she's a Poet Laureate Fellow with the Academy of American Poets, a California Arts Council Fellow, and a 2026 Macondista - a multidisciplinary artist blending East-West influences as Feng Shui Poetry. In 2025, Cheng was named one of the top 50 LGBTQ+ Impact Leaders by LA Magazine. Her writing is published in Passengers Journal, Colossus: Current, Altadena Poetry Review, and elsewhere. As a teaching artist, Cheng has offered her unique writing insights and inspiration at UCLA Extension and other national organizations. Learn more at JenCvoice.comand @JenCvoice. Watch here.

5/19/26- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Samantha (Sam) Evans Tschritter (pronounced Shridder) , a poet, lyricist, grief advocate and multi-award-winning author who has a special gift in articulating what can be so hard to express - grief and loss – courageously and authentically sharing the life journeys that can still travel us to hope, healing, and resilience. All this comes from her lived experiences, as deeply exemplified in her most recent book, The Prodigal Son. This is the story of Sam’s marriage to her late husband Clint (he died in June 2019) – who was a Pastor – his relapses into addiction, his being precipitously diagnosed with end stage cancer, and the difficult yet grace-filled path that led to transformation and healing for them both. This is a story of love and redemption, a testimony from the heart - reassuring and telling all - you are not alone. To learn more and purchase Sam's books visit www.loveunedited.com. Watch here.

5/26/26- Today’s special guest on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Mary Beth O’Connor, the award-winning author of “From Junkie to Judge: One Woman’s Triumph Over Trauma and Addiction.” This is not a work of fiction. It is a memoir, the story of Mary Beth – a retired federal magistrate judge - and her life’s journey from childhood trauma - including violence, abuse, and neglect, the mental health distress leading to substance use culminating in her addiction to her drug of choice, methamphetamine. Most importantly, Mary Beth’s “From Junkie to Judge,” authentically describes how she courageously survived by creating and then walking the path she could take, step by step towards healing, sobriety, and recovery. As a trauma-informed lived experience leader, Mary Beth’s sharing her powerful story exemplifies breaking through silence, shame, and stigma. She’s a board member at large of the She Recovers Foundation and was founding member of the She Recovers Support for Legal Professionals. Mary Beth is a sought-after speaker, writer, and trainer, combining her hard-won expertise in addiction, mental health, and resilience with the aim to raise awareness and also hope by educating, uplifting, and being of service to others. To learn more about Mary Beth and her book and services, please see: www.junkietojudge.com. Watch here. 

4/7/26- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Dr. Gary Sprouse, a retired Primary Care Physician who provided care for patients in Maryland for 38 years. He graduated from George Washington University Medical School in the top 10% of his class and is a member of Mensa, an organization open to people who score at the 98th percentile or higher on a standardized, supervised IQ or other approved intelligence test. From his own life experiences of carrying a 55-gallon drum of stress for decades, Dr. Sprouse emerged to become the “Less Stress Doc,” vehemently declaring, “Don’t resign yourself to being weighed down by stress, worry, guilt or regret.” He is dedicated to helping people improve their mental health, especially overcoming the weight of stress, burnout, worry, and/or addiction. Dr. Sprouse is the author of Highway to Your Happy Place: A Roadmap to Less Stress, which received a Gold Medal from the Independent Publisher Book Awards and was a winner of the National Indie Excellence Book Awards in their Well-Being category. He contributed to Jack Canfield’s best-selling book, Mindset Matters: Crafting a New Narrative for Success, whereby true stories of growth, resilience, and triumph in the face of adversity are shared. He’s also the host of the Happiness Highway podcast. Learn more at www.thelessstressdoc.comand email contact is lessstressdoc@gmail.com. Watch here.

4/14/26- Our special guest today on Talking Back w Suicide is Kathryn Goetzke, MBA, who has lived experience with PTSD, ADHD, depression, anxiety, addiction, and her own suicide attempt. Through therapy, medication, recovery, lifestyle change, and learning how to actively build Hope, she transformed her life and has been sober for over 20 years. Kathryn is the CEO and Chief Hope Officer of The Shine Hope Company, a global platform advancing Hope as a measurable and teachable public health strategy. She’s the author of The Biggest Little Book About Hope, host of The Hope Matrix podcast, and creator of the award-winning Hopeful Minds, Hopeful Cities, and Hopeful Mindsets programs, that provide individuals, schools, workplaces, and communities with practical skills to proactively manage moments of hopelessness and move toward measurable Hope. To honor her late father, Jon Goetzke, a successful banker and engaged family man who died by suicide when she was an 18 yo freshman in college, Kathryn founded in 2004, iFred – the International Foundation for research and education on depression. The purpose of iFred was to rebrand mental health, advance prevention, and expand access to treatment through public awareness campaigns, celebrity engagement, brain science education, universal symbolism, and strengths-based narrative. That early work was the foundation for what later evolved into measurable, teachable Hope-based methodologies now operationalized through The Shine Hope Company. Kathryn represents the World Federation for Mental Health at the United Nations. Founded in 1948, the WFMH is the first global mental health organization and sets the annual theme for World Mental Health Day. In addition, she is a published author in peer-reviewed academic journals on the importance of Hope and its application in education and public health. Her mission is to ensure that every person understands what hopelessness is, recognizes it early, and knows how to strengthen Hope in real time. Learn more at: www.theshinehopecompany.com. Watch here. 

4/28/26- Today the hosts of Talking Back 2 Suicide share their own stories to help save lives from scammers, financial ruin, despair, and highlights how documentary films can reach out and uplift us from the darkness of isolation, shame, and suicidality. The films discussed that were featured at the ETHOS Film Festival in Santa Monica, California are "Turn My Goddamn Mind Off" which is about the NHL goaltender Clint Malarchuk and "Out of the Shadows" which explores the mental health crisis in rural America. The hosts of Talking Back 2 Suicide are Diane Kaufman, MD, a poet, artist, humanism-in-medicine awardee, internationally award-winning lyricist, retired adult & child psychiatrist, and founder/director of the Hold On Campaign for Suicide Prevention (www.holdoncampaign.org) and Kino Isaac, a DJ, music producer & music entrepreneur, and advocate for the mental health well-being of independent artists. Kino lives in South Africa and Diane is in the USA. Watch here.

3/3/26- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Chad Moses, the Senior Director of Outreach and Experience for TWLOHA ~ To Write Love on Her Arms ~ which is a non-profit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury, and suicide. To Write Love on Her Arms exists to encourage, inform, inspire, and to invest into treatment and recovery. They are based in Melbourne, Florida. All this began with one person’s story on a myspace page and a box of t-shirts. Through word of mouth spreading to friends and family, then at music festivals, and school campuses, the message and meaning of To Write Love on Her Arms continues to impact so many people. The empathic and courageous sharing of one person’s story by a friend inspired countless others to be authentic in sharing their own stories of vulnerability and by doing so has created experiences of belonging and love. TWLOHA’s goal is to move people from a place of shame and isolation into community, from hopelessness to hope, and to have people receive the help they need and deserve. To Write Love on Her Arms manifests this by offering online mental health skills building, mood lifting music playlists, connecting people to mental health resources, providing scholarships for counseling and professional help, and having The Hopeful which is a free self-care app designed for daily use. TWLOHA is as they describe themselves - a force that is stronger than stigma and a growing chorus of hope. Learn more at: https://twloha.com/. Watch here.

3/10/26- Today’s special guest on Talking Back 2 Suicide, Dr. Dan Tomasulo, is a world-renowned expert on Hope and Positive Psychology. Dr. Tomasulo is the Academic Director and Core Faculty at the Spirituality Mind Body Institute at Teachers College, Columbia University in New York City. He holds a PhD in psychology, an MFA in writing, and a Master of Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania. He's a Renaissance Man, with creative gifts also in playwriting, psychodrama, and creative nonfiction. His second memoir published in 2018, American Snake Pit: Hope, Grit, and Resilience on the Wake of Willowbrook, was on the infamous treatment center. The screenplay for American Snake Pit has won countless international awards. Formerly the Director of the New York City Certification in Positive Psychology for the New York Open Center, Dr. Tomasulo is also a Review Editor for Frontiers in Psychology special section Positive Psychology. He was recognized and honored by Sharecare as a top-ten online influencer on depression. Author of the 2020 book, Learned Hopefulness, Dr. Tomasulo’s most recent book, The Positivity Effect: Simple CBT Skills to Transform Anxiety and Negativity into Optimism & Hope, was published June 2023 by New Harbinger Publications. To learn more see: www.dantomasulo.com. Watch here.

3/17/26- Our special guest on today's Talking Back 2 Suicide is Garret Biss, a retired Marine Corps Pilot who valiantly transformed his pain into passionate purpose. From his lived experiences post-retirement in 2015 of feeling increasingly anxious and depressed, emotionally disconnected, and turning to alcohol, which further progressed into suicidal thoughts, Garret through positive mentoring was able to reclaim and reignite his self-worth, dignity, and inner strength. Wanting to uplift others who are in despair, Garret became an addiction recovery and resilience coach who helps veterans deeply reconnect with meaning, rebuilding confidence, and being able to thrive beyond the trauma of military transition. Garret supports veterans to emerge from the void of darkness to the light of authentic connection; he aspires to help them achieve their highest potential. Garret truly walks the talk. In 2017, he co-founded an addiction recovery residence in North Carolina, serving as interim program director, executive director, former board president, and has provided over the years essential leadership skills. Garret went on to create ValiantPath, a recovery program and curriculum specifically for veterans which is deeply rooted in positive psychology and principles of human flourishing. ValiantPath integrates group coaching, one-on-one emotional processing, and evidence-based recovery methods. Garret graduated from the Clark School of Engineering at the University of Maryland and holds a master's degree from the Harbert Business School at Auburn University. He's a pilot for the Civil Air Patrol and leads a global water non-profit, One Million Goal, Inc. Garret is a sought-after speaker and is an award-winning author. His books are Charity The Gifts of Giving, First Steps to Thriving in Recovery Workbook, and The Spheres Approach to Happiness and Fulfillment. https://garretbiss.com and https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbbiss/. Watch here.

3/24/26- Our special guest on today’s Talking Back 2 Suicide is the most creative, Lynette Watkins, a professional artist, professor of art, musician, educator, and author. Lynette has exhibited her paintings in some of the finest galleries and shows in Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Ruidoso, and Dallas as well as at European galleries in Italy, France, and the Isle of Man. She’s been Professor of Art at both South Plains College in Texas as well as at the La Romita School of Art in Italy. Her interest in writing and illustrating evolved from the creation of an art sketchbook/journal for her son as well as one for the Brooklyn Art Library. These early endeavors are reflected in her book, “Can It Be That Some Chains Are Mere Shadows – A Visual Journey from Darkness to Light” with its companion Authors Guide for even deeper reflection. This is a book of hope, helping us to recognize, visualize, and articulate life’s struggles, leaving the darkness and chains, even one chain at a time, and moving with deliberation toward freedom and light. Lynette holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music from Fort Lewis College, and a Masters of Fine Art in Interdisciplinary Studies from Texas Tech University. She has been honored in Outstanding People of the 20th century and Outstanding Teachers of America publications. She passionately believes art is a mental health lifeline, inspiring meaning, healing, and connection, empowering our resilience and serenity in times of chaos. Learn more about Lynette Watkins at www.lynettewatkins.com. Watch here.

2/3/26- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide, Dr. Zainab Okolo, is the Senior Vice President of Policy, Advocacy, and Government Relations at the Jed Foundation (JED), collaborating with external networks to advocate for increased federal, state, and local support for a comprehensive approach to mental health and suicide prevention ( www.jedfoundation.org). Dr. Okolo is a seasoned expert in higher education policy and mental health, dedicating her career to breaking down barriers for students, enabling them to thrive academically and lead fulfilling lives. Under her leadership, JED has expanded its impact with groundbreaking initiative - including state mental health policy summits, national convenings, and the launch of the Youth Advocacy Coalition, which centers youth voices in policymaking. Dr. Okolo holds a doctorate in education from The George Washington University, a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Syracuse University, and a bachelor’s degree in Family Science from the University of Maryland, College Park. As a trauma-informed, licensed mental health clinician, Dr. Okolo has provided crucial and vital support to individuals, families, and institutions, emphasizing strategies to overcome stress and anxiety. With her extensive professional experience in higher education research and student services, Dr. Okolo is a staunch and passionate advocate for increased access to high-quality mental health services for all youth. Watch here.

2/10/26- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Stephen (aka Steve) Nawotniak, an Occupational Therapist, with a Master’s Degree earned from Utica University. Steve is a New York State certified Peer Specialist, Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner, and an Eagle Scout. Like many of us, Steve has experienced significant life challenges. In August 2002, he was hospitalized for a week with a Major Depressive episode and was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. From that point forward, Steve has spent his life learning how to live with his mental health condition on his journey from hospitalized patient to licensed healthcare professional and mental health advocate. With this dedication, Steve went on to author and publish the “Handbook for Healthy Living with a Mood Disorder” and “Bipolar Life Hacks: Keys to Loving Life with a Bipolar Disorder” to share the skills and tools he uses daily to live, what he calls, a desired quality of life. His award-winning children’s book, “Mubu the Morph,” is on the inner journey of discovering that pain can be transformed into purpose, healing ourselves and others. Steve has spoken at events including the International Association of Peer Specialists, the New York State Occupational Therapy Association, and colleges across the country and internationally, to demystify mental health, to put an end to the stigma associated with mental health distress and illness, and to advocate for the evolution of the mental health system. Learn more at: www.stephennawotniak.com. Watch here.

2/17/26 Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Jenny Leigh Hodgins, who is a pianist, composer, vocalist, performer, music educator, poet, author, and a Creative Empowerment Coach. She is a graduate of the University of South Florida. As the founder and CEO of, Your Creative Chord, Jenny has taken her creative skills and experiences combined with her spiritual practices (she’s a 39 year plus practicing Buddhist), to inspire and sustain us in our unique creative energies. Jenny helps us to reconnect with our creativity, transform obstacles into growth, and live with greater clarity, purpose, and inner harmony. Jenny is also a hobbyist nature photographer and says, “Nature’s beauty and my personal experiences shape my coaching approach--empowering your creative flow and inspired living. Just as nature rejuvenates me, I believe it can inspire and help you find balance and clarity on your path to growth.” She also declares, “I believe the arts hold the power to transform pain into purpose. Creativity isn’t just something we do—it’s how we breathe through challenges, how we heal, and how we connect.” Learn more at: www.yourcreativechord.com. Watch here. 

2/17/26- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Jenny Leigh Hodgins, who is a pianist, composer, vocalist, performer, music educator, poet, author, and a Creative Empowerment Coach. She is a graduate of the University of South Florida. As the founder and CEO of, Your Creative Chord, Jenny has taken her creative skills and experiences combined with her spiritual practices (she’s a 39 year plus practicing Buddhist), to inspire and sustain us in our unique creative energies. Jenny helps us to reconnect with our creativity, transform obstacles into growth, and live with greater clarity, purpose, and inner harmony. Jenny is also a hobbyist nature photographer and says, “Nature’s beauty and my personal experiences shape my coaching approach--empowering your creative flow and inspired living. Just as nature rejuvenates me, I believe it can inspire and help you find balance and clarity on your path to growth.” She also declares, “I believe the arts hold the power to transform pain into purpose. Creativity isn’t just something we do—it’s how we breathe through challenges, how we heal, and how we connect.” Learn more at: www.yourcreativechord.com. Watch here.

2/24/26- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Kevin Crispin, who knows firsthand the impacts that anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder can have on our lives. Kevin also knows the healing powers of awareness, kindness, humor, and empathy. Integrating these experiences and polarities within his own life ignited a passion and dedication to becoming a Mental Health Advocate. Kevin believes and these are his words: “Stories are the great healing currency of humankind: the more we hear, the more we heal.” He also says, though life challenges and “difficult stories are universal, they are not universally told.” Kevin wants to change that silence into voice and action. He’s doing so through his skills as an Actor, Writer, Public Speaker, and Podcaster. With a degree in theater from Southern Illinois University, Kevin has worked as a professional actor across the entire United States. Of special note, in 2017, Kevin wrote, produced, and performed a one-man show called “Invisible Now.” The show was about his lifelong struggles with anxiety. Apart from theatre, in the corporate world, Kevin has traveled internationally, with responsibilities such as Customer Support Manager, Chief of Staff, and Global Project Manager. After deciding to leave the corporate space in order to pursue performing and public speaking to benefit mental health well-being, Kevin became the host of the mental health podcast, Sad Times, now known as Behind Beautiful Things. Kevin’s goal is to “help people feel less alone: Both those who listen, and those who tell their stories.” He also uplifts workplace organizations with his keynote presentation, “Healing the Wrist.” To learn more about Kevin and his advocacy, please see: www.kevincrispin.com. Watch here.

1/13/26- Our special guest, Starlit Swan, is a writer at heart and creates wondrous worlds to escape the pain caused by the rare illness, Causalgia, nicknamed, “Suicide Disease,” because the severity of the pain can drive a person to suicide. Starlit’s poem, The Marble Block, has been made into the internationally award-winning animation “Marble Me Free” with a companion website that seeks to break the cycle of pain and suicide. She’s published three poetry books: The Marble Block & the Poems It Inspired, the Christmas illustrated book How Reindeer Learn How to Fly, and the illustrated poem Anything Is Possible which is also available as a journal and coloring book). She is writing her first novel with, she lovingly adds, the input from her vocal cats. To learn more please see www.marblemefree.com and www.starlitswan.com. Listen here.

1/20/26- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Dr. Stuart Wood who is coming to us all the way from the United Kingdom. Dr. Wood has a PhD in Neuroscience. His life journey includes his being an educator and researcher on medication, his having lived experience of depression, his helping people to face and overcome their fears using his pet snakes, tarantulas, scorpions, lizards, and his becoming an expert on identifying Narcissistic Abuse and most importantly, recovering from it. He is the founder/director of The Narcissistic Abuse Network that is dedicated to creating positive change through awareness and action, in our own lifetime and beyond. He is the author of Escaping The Void (How to Support Victims Out of Emotionally Abusive Relationships). As Stuart so eloquently says, “Life is rarely easy. We may get sucked into quicksand, wrestle in the mud and blood, doubt our purpose, doubt our ability, face uncertainty, perhaps even face death. Each is an opportunity to 'go-under or grow.'" Learn more at: https://narcissistic-abuse.net and https://www.linkedin.com/in/drstuartwood. Watch here.

1/27/26- Our special guest today, Meghan Caughey, MFA, is author of the award-winning memoir, “Mud Flower: Surviving Schizophrenia and Suicide Through Art” giving voice to her journey as a person living with serious mental illness, surviving extreme treatments, who both family and the health system had given up on, defying all expectations and common beliefs of what was possible. In “Mud Flower,” Meghan shares eloquently on how the life force can be either nurtured by elements in our environment, such as nature, beauty, and art or destroyed by dehumanization and coercion. Meghan is an exhibited artist, a cellist, poet, a mental health activist, and sought after keynote speaker. She’s also a certified peer wellness and support specialist and was Senior Director of Peer and Wellness Services at Cascadia Behavioral Healthcare, in Portland, Oregon. Meghan is an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Oregon Health and Science University where she uses art to train medical students and psychiatrists. She says, “To live – art is essential. Imbibing the life force– is essential for making art. I survive because I am able to draw and paint the edge where I find myself.” Her favorite quote is from the German artist, Gerhard Richter, who said, ‘Art is the highest form of hope.’ Learn more at: https://meghancaughey.comand purchase Meghan's memoir at Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Watch here

12/2/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Ashley Taylor, MS, Community Engagement & Partnerships Coordinator (CEPC) Suicide Prevention Team, US Department of Veteran Affairs in Oregon. Ashley has a Bachelor of Science degree from University of Maryland Global Campus and Master of Science degree from Capella University where she studied Human Behavior. With combat deployments in 2004 and 2008, Ashley is a Post 9/11 Army veteran from Columbia County, Oregon currently working on the Suicide Prevention Team at the Department of Veterans' Affairs. Ashley is also a veteran spouse and advocate of veteran’s behavioral health. She served as the Texas Regional Director and then Chief Grants Officer & Veteran Advocacy at the Operation Red Wings Foundation that provides relief, direction, and hope to military families with tools that provide relief from the “invisible wounds” of PTSD, m (mild) TBI and chronic pain. Since December 2023, Ashely is an Oregon Coordinator within the Veteran Affairs’ Community Engagement and Partnerships Coordinators (CEPC) that collaborates at the community, regional and state levels, to support community coalition building for evidence-informed suicide prevention interventions specific to the local Veteran population. Ashely and Dr. Diane Kaufman (founder/director of the Hold On Campaign for Suicide Prevention and co-host of Talking Back 2 Suicide) met as panelists at the Just Create Community’s Suicide Prevention event held in Hillsboro, Oregon, September 2025. Learn about available resources here. Watch here.

12/9/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Dr. Molly O’Shea who attended undergrad and medical school education at the University of Michigan and completed her residency in pediatrics at The Children’s Hospital of Michigan in Detroit. Since then, she has been both a practicing pediatrician and an independent practice owner. Her practices Birmingham and Campground Pediatrics, have behavioral health integration and serve families in southeast Michigan. Dr. Molly has been involved in the American Academy of Pediatrics throughout her career as a journal editor, national CME planner, and faculty member. She is now one of the Academy’s official spokespeople, writing op/eds and providing media interviews on various topics including suicide prevention, technology and children, vaccines, and water safety. As an Ambassador for the AAP Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health, Dr Molly provides information to parents, educators, pediatricians and media outlets about the impact of social media on youth and tools to keep kids safe and healthy in the digital age. She is currently on the Executive Committee for the Council on Communications and Media and is a co-author of the upcoming AAP policy statement about AI and childhood. Molly lost her son to suicide in January 2019. Her passion for youth mental health and support for families runs ever deep. Learn more at www.aap.org/suicidepreventionand www.aap.org/socialmedia. The hosts of Talking Back 2 Suicide are Diane Kaufman, MD, a poet, artist, humanism-in-medicine awardee, internationally award-winning lyricist, retired child psychiatrist, and founder/director of the Hold On Campaign for Suicide Prevention, and Kino Isaac, a DJ, music producer & music entrepreneur, and advocate for the mental health well-being of independent artists. Kino lives in South Africa and Diane is in the USA. If you are having suicidal thoughts, call 988 in the USA. See the International Association for Suicide Prevention: ⁠⁠www.iasp.info/suicidalthoughts/ if you are outside the USA. Watch here.

12/16/25- Kera Magarill, our special guest on today's Talking Back 2 Suicide, has a Masters Degree in Human Service and has received specialized training in music therapy and dementia care. After completing a program in gerontology, she joined the Aging Leadership and Health Professions Department at Metropolitan State University of Denver as an instructor. Kera has worked in aging and arts engagement across the long-term care continuum and she led the launch of the “SPARK For Arts” program with the Alzheimer’s Association of Colorado which connects families with Alzheimer’s to their local museums and arts organizations across the state. In 2018, she moved to Oregon with her family and served for seven years as an Older Adult Behavioral Health Specialist. She currently serves her community as the Mental Health Promotion and Prevention Coordinator with Washington County Behavioral Health. For more information see: www.washingtoncountyor.gov/behavioral-health. Watch here.

12/23/25- Our special guest on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Ashlea Dillard, here today to share her story, “not just as a reflection of her own transformation, but as a reminder to others of who they are — that within our struggles lie the very tools that lead us home to ourselves." For nearly a decade, Ashlea served in public safety as a firefighter and paramedic in Colorado, gaining a deep, firsthand understanding of the unique challenges faced by emergency personnel. Her time in service included roles on the Boulder County Regional Hazmat Team, the Boulder County Tox Medic Program, work as an EMS educator and field instructor, and service as a wildland firefighter. Those years shaped her understanding of trauma, resilience, and the human capacity to endure — and they also inspired passion for mental health and healing, particularly for those carrying trauma histories or limiting beliefs from the past. Ashlea’s credentials include a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Mental Health and Clinical Counseling, along with specialized training in interpersonal hypnosis and psychedelic-assisted therapy with ketamine. Today she works full-time in the mental health field, primarily serving first responders, military personnel, and their families. Learn more at www.sitaroundthefire.org. Watch here.

12/30/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is the multi-talented Jude Treder-Wolff, who is an expert on the applications of creativity to personal and professional development. Jude is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Practitioner of Applied Improvisation, and creative arts therapist, with 40 years of experience as an innovative and improvisational clinician and trainer. Jude, having worked in every area of mental health, is also a writer/performer, storyteller (she’s an esteemed Moth slam winner), a trained improviser, and host of the Improv In Real Life podcast that explores the intersection of creativity and improv skills in dealing with real-life goals and stresses. She is the host of (mostly) TRUE THINGS, a game wrapped in a storytelling show produced by Lifestage. She's designed and facilitated training workshops and classes about creativity in healing, learning, and professional development for The National Association Of Social Workers-New York State annual conferences, UC-Berkeley Continuing Education Program For Behavioral Sciences, SUNY-Buffalo Institute For Addiction Studies, The Psychotherapy Networker Symposium in Washington, D.C., and NYU Arts In Health Care among many other conferences and organizations around the country. Jude was the chair of the 2019 Applied Improvisation Network World Conference, in partnership with the Alan Alda Center For Communicating Science at Stony Brook University. She has also published articles in the International Journal of Arts & Psychotherapy. Learn more about Jude and her services: www.judetrederwolff.com, www.lifestage.me and www.mostlytruethings.com. Watch here.

11/4/25- Today's special guest on Talking Back 2 Suicide is the esteemed physician, Dr. David Conant-Norville, a board certified child & adolescent psychiatrist and general (adult) psychiatrist. He’s a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and the American Psychiatric Association. Dr. Dave, as he likes to be called, is Founder and Clinical Director of Mind Matters P.C., in Oregon, and President of the non-profit Mind Matters Family Center. Dr. Dave was a collegiate soccer player at Stanford University and is a 3rd Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo. He has a special interest in sports and mental health. He was a Board Member and Chair of the Youth Sports Committee for the International Society for Sports Psychiatry. An author, lecturer, and presenter on ADHD and Developmental Challenges in Youth Sports, he's Psychiatric Consultant for the United States Anti-Doping Agency and Psychiatrist on the United States Olympic and Paralympic Mental Health Register, as well as having so many more sports and mental health roles and accomplishments. Dr. Dave recommends Project Play: An Initiative of the Aspen Institute for learning more on sports and mental health wellbeing: https://projectplay.org. Watch here. '

11/11/25~ Today's special guest on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Bryan Lee who is better known worldwide as Bullseye The Clown. As CEO and Founder of Clowns On A Mission, Bryan leads humanitarian initiatives that spread joy, love, offer peace, and deliver vital resources to underserved communities globally while bringing visibility to those who feel forgotten. He’s the author of the book, “Bullseye On Bullying: Your Blueprint for Beating the Bullies” and the much-anticipated follow-up, “Be the Someone: Take Action in a World That Waits.” Bryan is inspirational. He exemplifies transforming pain into purpose as he channeled his own lived mental health experiences into a way of being that has not only helped him to heal but has positively impacted the lives of so many people, both young and old. As Bryan, in his own words, so eloquently declares:
Writing -- my voice
Entertaining -- my passion
A clown nose -- my drug of choice
Making the invisible visible -- my super power
Changing lives -- my mission
I became the superhero nobody saw coming.
To learn more about Bryan, see www.bullseyetheclown.com and www.clownsonamission.com. Order "Bullseye on Bullying" book: https://tinyurl.com/b59w4ptt. Watch the Clownvets documentary: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ko3BHAKjPGc&t=3067s.Watch here. 

11/18/25- Forty-seven years ago on November 18th, 1978, the unimaginable became horrific reality in Guyana with more than 900 dead at the mass murder-suicide in Jonestown led by the cult leader, Reverend Jim Jones and his Peoples Temple. Our special guest today is Dr. Steven Hassan, the renowned mental health professional and expert in undue influence tactics used by authoritarian leaders and destructive cults. These cults include but are not limited to destructive religious and political cults, human trafficking, extremist and terrorist groups, one-on-one relationships, families, professional and institutional abuse, and other settings for harmful belief systems. Dr. Hassan began helping people affected by undue influence after he was deprogrammed from the Moon cult in 1976 at age 22. He has a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from Cambridge College and a Doctorate in Organizational Development and Change from Fielding Graduate University School of Leadership Studies. Dr. Hassan developed the BITE Model of Authoritarian Control and the Influence Continuum Model to discern ethical from unethical influence: http://www.freedomofmind.com/cult.../bite-model-pdf-download and http://www.freedomofmind.com/cult.../influence-continuum He also developed the Strategic Interactive Approach (SIA), as an effective and legal intervention alternative for families to help cult members. He’s written four books including Combating Cult Mind Control, Freedom of Mind, and The Cult of Trump. Dr. Hassan is Founding Director of the Freedom of Mind Resource Center, which provides training, consulting, and support to individuals who are struggling to leave or recover from a cult and to families and organizations that are concerned about cult behaviors. He’s also the founder of Freedom From Undue Influence, a not-for-profit entity with the purpose of conducting and publishing research on undue influence that is needed to update legal and social policies. Dr. Hassan believes with every ounce of his being that access to the truth, freedom of thought, and freedom from undue influence are basic human rights. See: www.freedomofmind.com. Watch here

11/25/25- Today is a much-anticipated return engagement on Talking Back 2 Suicide with board-certified music therapist, Natalia Uribe, who specializes in medical neurologic music therapy, senior care, and end-of-life care. Music has the power to heal. Natalia was born and raised in Bogota, Colombia. She’s a Portland, Oregon resident, and serves as President of the Oregon Association for Music Therapy. Natalia was such a valued part of the April 2025 National Association for Poetry Therapy Conference where she guest facilitated the event’s closing event whereby with fantastic drums and other musical instruments we were encouraged to let go and release our unique percussive rhythmic sounds and vocal expressions, creating harmonies and building a felt sense of embodied community. To learn more about music therapy: www.uribemusictherapy.com and www.oregonmusictherapy.net. Watch here.

10/7/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Elizabeth Noecker, a Certified Peer Specialist with Youth MOVE PA (Pennsylvania), a statewide youth & young adult advocacy organization dedicated to eliminating stigma surrounding mental health while promoting wellness and recovery for those seeking aid along their journey. Elizabeth is a host on the Youth MOVE PA's Our Story Isn’t Over podcast. The co-host for Talking Back 2 Suicide and founder/director of the Hold On Campaign for Suicide Prevention, Dr. Diane Kaufman, had been interviewed by Elizabeth on that podcast and in the spirit of camaraderie and collaboration, we wanted to bring Elizabeth on Talking Back 2 Suicide to share on her own mental health journey, service, and advocacy. To learn more about Youth MOVE PA see: https://youthmovepa.wildapricot.org/ and also https://www.pmhca.org/. Watch here.

10/21/25 - When today's guest for today's Talking Back 2 Suicide had to cancel due to an emergency, co-hosts Diane Kaufman, MD and Kino Isaac, used the available time to share personal experiences of feeling disconnected and how they look to give and create meaning in their lives. Appreciation for the present ~ the actual gift of life as in life is a present is explored. Fear of missing out, comparisons with others, defining what "success" is and who actually did the defining for us is discussed. Forcing life to be what we want it to be rather than living each moment and looking for the gift, the lesson to be learned, and growing in its opportunity is also reflected upon. Gratitude, contribution, and love are lifelines of connection. As Kino says, "Stop existing and start living." Watch here.

10/28/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Bracha Goetz, a prolific author of children’s books that inspire empathy, gratitude, living with positive values, and opening conversation on important topics such as sexual abuse. Bracha had an eating disorder in her youth. She became Harvard educated and initially wanted to become a psychiatrist specializing in anorexia. Life, though, had other plans for sharing her gifts including her moving from the USA to Jerusalem, later returning to live again in the USA, and then having residence in both the USA and Israel. Bracha was a Recreation Therapist at the Levindale Hebrew Geriatric Center and Hospital, and became Mentoring Coordinator at the Jewish Big Brother and Big Sister League in Baltimore, Maryland. Bracha’s memoir, initially titled, "Searching for God in the Garbage" was later renamed, "Nourish the Soul: Filling the Emptiness Within," as she came to better understand the symbolism displayed by her eating disorder. The hunger in her could only be filled by spirituality of gratitude.. Bracha has written over 40 children’s books. Find out more at the Growing Impact Publications website where Impact stands for Important Messages for Parents and Children Together (www.growingimpactpublications.com). Watch here. 

10/14/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Pat Black-Gould whose life journey integrates artistic expression and healing in transformative ways. She’s a PhD psychologist and an award-winning author, whose clinical and creative work shine light on empathy, resilience and inclusion. Pat has been an actress, director, and playwright in New York, and later produced summer stock and murder mystery theater in Maine. She once ran a New York-based theater company, directing inner-city youth and summer stock productions.
As a mental health professional, Pat designed a suicide prevention program incorporating psychodrama and role play. She has worked with Vietnam Veterans, served as LGBTQ+ veteran program coordinator, and provided psychological care within forensic hospitals and men’s correctional facilities. She co-authored important academic work on mental health and Cultural Deafness with Dr. Neil Glickman, an experience that continues to this day to inform her being an advocate for underrepresented voices.
Pat is the author of The Crystal Beads, a Gold Medal award-winning book inspired by a true story on a child experiencing the Holocaust. She co-authored with Steve Hardiman, the award-winning and five-star reviewed, All the Broken Angels, a coming-of-age story set in the USA’s turbulent 1960’s and 1970’s. About her many writings Pat explains, “My stories explore what it means to grow through change, to reach across divides and to find strength in unexpected places.” To learn more about Pat and her creative works please see: www.patblackgould.com/. Watch here.

10/21/25- When today's guest for today's Talking Back 2 Suicide had to cancel due to an emergency, co-hosts Diane Kaufman, MD and Kino Isaac, used the available time to share personal experiences of feeling disconnected and how they look to give and create meaning in their lives. Appreciation for the present ~ the actual gift of life as in life is a present is explored. Fear of missing out, comparisons with others, defining what "success" is and who actually did the defining for us is discussed. Forcing life to be what we want it to be rather than living each moment and looking for the gift, the lesson to be learned, and growing in its opportunity is also reflected upon. Gratitude, contribution, and love are lifelines of connection. As Kino says, "Stop existing and start living." Watch here.

10/28/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Bracha Goetz, a prolific author of children’s books that inspire empathy, gratitude, living with positive values, and opening conversation on important topics such as sexual abuse. Bracha had an eating disorder in her youth. She became Harvard educated and initially wanted to become a psychiatrist specializing in anorexia. Life, though, had other plans for sharing her gifts including her moving from the USA to Jerusalem, later returning to live again in the USA, and then having residence in both the USA and Israel. Bracha was a Recreation Therapist at the Levindale Hebrew Geriatric Center and Hospital, and became Mentoring Coordinator at the Jewish Big Brother and Big Sister League in Baltimore, Maryland. Bracha’s memoir, initially titled, "Searching for God in the Garbage" was later renamed, "Nourish the Soul: Filling the Emptiness Within," as she came to better understand the symbolism displayed by her eating disorder. The hunger in her could only be filled by spirituality of gratitude.. Bracha has written over 40 children’s books. Find out more at the Growing Impact Publications website where Impact stands for Important Messages for Parents and Children Together (www.growingimpactpublications.com). Watch here. 

9/2/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Dr. Zabina Bhasin, a Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, affectionately known as Dr. Zee, who is a global champion for youth voices and mental well-being. She shares on the importance and power of engaged listening as a way to build trust and relationship. If youth do not experience being "heard" as in their being truly "listened to," to whom will they turn when they need help? A Cornell-educated expert, she’s the visionary founder and driving force behind In KidZ, a pioneering EdTech company committed to championing multicultural education and emotional wellness for children. She speaks and consults on a wide range of topics related to child development, anti-bullying, resilience, parenting, and the educational and societal challenges facing children and adolescents today. She’s been featured on Good Morning America, Today Parents, and Good Morning New York, recognized by Forbes' NEXT 1000 Entrepreneurs, and honored as a Champion of Diversity and Inclusion at the Toy of the Year Awards. Her leadership also extends beyond youth advocacy—she is a Board Director for The Toy Association, United Sikhs, and Concordia, shaping policies and innovations that impact millions. Her passionate mission is to ignite a global movement where children feel seen, heard, and empowered. To learn more please visit: www.dr-zee.com. Watch here.

9/9/25- On September 10, 2025 (Word Suicide Prevention Day), the winners of the Hold On Campaign's first annual "Create Resilience" Youth Art Contest which received funding by the Oregon Council for Child & Adolescent Psychiatry will be announced. On today's Talking Back 2 Suicide podcast, Dr. Diane Kaufman, the founder/director of the Hold On Campaign, shares the story of how the contest emerged from her experience with her young adult patient who nearly hanged herself. This is a story of perseverance and transformation whereby Dr. Kaufman was also challenged to maintain her own mental health well-being as she since March 2020 tried to bring the project to fruition. 20 youth in Oregon entered the contest and all their creative work and responses to questions on risk factors for suicide, how to improve youth mental youth, and why the contest is important can be found on the Hold On Campaign for Suicide Prevention's website: www.holdoncampaign.org/2025-youth-art-contest-winners. Watch here.

9/16/25 - Talking Back 2 Suicide is so pleased to have author Lynda Williams with us today. Lynda writes with heart, grit, and a powerful honesty. Her stories often center on women - real, raw, and unapologetic - navigating life, fighting silent battles, and finding their strength in a world that doesn’t always make it easy. Lynda has Bipolar Disorder and is a suicide loss survivor. She writes about things that matter: class, mental health, and what it really means to be a woman today. She once joked that her style is like “if Raymond Carver wrote feisty women,” - and that tells you everything. Her characters stay with you. Lynda has published in Grain Magazine, Room, and The Humber Literary Review. She’s garnered awards and recently received one of the highest honors possible: the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Emerging Artist Award. Most importantly, Lynda’s creative works help us know we are not alone. Learn more about Lynda and purchase her books at www.lyndawilliams.ca.She is on Instagram as @lyndawilliams_author and Linda Williams on Facebook. Watch here.

9/23/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Jon Noyes who is a Stand to Reason teacher. According to their website, Stand to Reason "represents classical Christianity—orthodox Christian beliefs that have been affirmed since the first Christians. Stand to Reason trains Christians to think more clearly about their faith and to make an even-handed, incisive, yet gracious defense for classical Christianity and classical Christian values in the public square. Stand to Reason teachers teach lectures and seminars, preach sermons, and lead workshops geared towards helping Christians gain the practical tools they need to make a difference in their world, giving them both the knowledge and confidence to be players in the world of ideas. Since 2019 Jon Noyes has been a speaker with Stand to Reason. He's a former atheist, who used to think belief in God was unwarranted and irresponsible. After examining the evidence for Christianity he was faced with the fact that Jesus is who He says He is and the Christian worldview tells the true story of reality. He has more than ten years’ experience in the legal field and has a master’s degree in Christian Apologetics from Biola University, graduating with honors. Jon is a founding pastor at Soli Deo Gloria Church and serves on the board of directors for Life Without Limbs and Bible Thinker." Please see www.str.org for more information. Watch here.

9/30/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Natalia Uribe, MT-BC, a board-certified music therapist who specializes in medical neurologic music therapy, senior care, and end-of-life care. Natalia who was born and raised in Bogota, Colombia, is a Portland, Oregon resident, and serves as President of the Oregon Association for Music Therapy. Natalia was a much valued part of the April 2025 National Association for Poetry Therapy Conference where she guest facilitated the event’s closing attendee experience which included making percussive rhythmic sounds, vocal expressions, creating harmonies, and building community. To learn more, see: www.uribemusictherapy.com. www.oregonmusictherapy.net/. www.musictherapy.org/. www.wfmt.info/. Watch here.

8/5/25- Our special guest on today Talking Back 2 Suicide is artist Carrie Kitzke who shares from the heart about her "suicide experience" and all that she learned from it ~ especially the need to reach out for help and to recognize no one is perfect as that's unrealistic and impossible for anyone to achieve ~ in living her life with passion and purpose. Carrie mentioned these books as having been very helpful to her: "Best Self: Be You, Only Better" by Mike Bayer and "Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and the Language of Human Experience" by Brené Brown and Brynlee Brooke. The library app for free books and audiobooks is Libby. Learn more about Carrie and her art at https://studiomimmi.com/ and @StudioMimmiCeramics. Watch here.

8/12/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Sherry Reiter, PhD who is a public figure, poetry therapist, mentor, educator, Professor of Speech and Communication as well as Psychology at Touro University, founder/director of The Creative Righting Center, and co-author of "Writing Away the Demons: Stories of Coping Through Transformative Language." Sherry shares with great sensitivity her lived experiences of episodes of Major Depression and her turning to alcohol to relieve the pain which only further deepened the problems. She shares her own poetry as well as poems by other writers ("Oceans" by Jan Ramon Jimenez, "The Fountain" by Denise Levertov, "The Thing Is" by Ellen Bass, "Things I Didn't Know I Loved" by Nazim Hikmetthat) to elucidate how depression can impact body, mind, and spirit and how poetry can also help us learn to heal. "Never give up" and "reaching out for help however you can" is her message. We can be strengthened and rise again even when we fall. To learn more about The Creative "Righting" Center see: www.thecreativerightingcenter.com. Watch here.

8/19/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Gina Cavalier who is a non-fiction and fiction author, artist, spiritual teacher, and a true survivor of suicidal thoughts. She is the co-author of "Surviving Suicidal Ideation: From Therapy to Spirituality and the Lived Experience." Transforming her pain into purpose, Gina is the founder of “The Liberated Healer,” where she’s performed over a thousand individual healings, helping people reconnect with themselves and their inner truth. Her experience as a media executive — having worked with some of the biggest names in entertainment — eventually led her to ask deeper questions. In walking away from that fast-paced world, Gina rediscovered and embraced her true calling: using creativity as a force for healing by empowering others through storytelling, energetic healing, and inspired creativity. As Gina expresses so beautifully: "Art has the profound ability to save a life, not only for the artist who creates it but also for those who find solace and connection in the emotions that are being evoked through the creative process. This is no small feat, as it speaks to the depth of human experience and the transformative power that artistic expression can hold." To learn more see www.theliberatedhealer.com. Watch here.

8/26/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Jennifer Keeling, the Director of Retention and Recruitment at Returning Veterans Project (RVP). Jennifer joined RVP in January of 2023 after 20 years of supporting military families, first as a military spouse and then as a military survivor. The last nine years she has dedicated her career to serving and supporting military families who have lost a loved one who served in the military, specifically to suicide. Jennifer’s professional background includes a passion and a desire to reduce military suicide. She is certified in suicide prevention, is a certified psychology autopsy investigator and has extensive training in grief and trauma. The RVP vision is an improved quality of life for Veterans, Service Members, and their Military Families and they believe Veterans, Service Members, and their Families have the right to: Mental and physical health services without stigma or judgment, Confidential services from their provider of choice, and easy and timely access to the health services they need. RVP supports the healing and health of Veterans and Military Communities by connecting Veterans, Service Members, and their Military Families with free, confidential mental and physical health services. All the above is from the RVP website: www.returningveterans.org. Watch here.

7/1/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Sherri Levine, a mental health advocate, published poet, and editor who due to Bipolar Disorder has experienced severe mental health distress leading to inpatient psychiatric admission. Sherri lives in Portland, Oregon. Her poem, “Facedown,” won the Lois Cranston Memorial Prize (Calyx). She won First Prize (Poet’s Choice) in the Oregon Poetry Association Biannual Contest in 2017 and received the Oregon Poetry Award National Poetry Contest in 2025. Her most recent project as editor is Waking in the Blue: Poems and Essays About Mental Health. Her creative works include I Remember Not Sleeping, A Joy to See: an ekphrastic anthology ~ Oregon Poets Celebrate the Art of Kay Levine, Stealing Flowers from the Neighbors ~ In Memory of My Mother Kay Levine, and, In These Voices. To learn more see: www.sherrilevine.com. Watch here.

7/8/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Isabella ("Bella") Young who shares about her life journey which has included the sudden death of her husband, becoming for years involved in what she later came to understand as a cult, and the murder of her son. She experienced intensity of suicidal thoughts but she did not want to actually be dead. She wanted instead to find healing and to live. Bella believes in the power of nature to help us heal, use of natural medicines, bird song, sunlight, healthy nutrition, allowing our emotions to move through us, and much more. Having self-love and self-respect are so important. Bella is the author of New Human of New Earth: Medicine for the Freedom and Future of Humanity and Putting On the Armor of God which are available on Amazon. You can learn more about Bella here. Please note that Talking Back 2 Suicide recommends you check with your physician on any health-related matter which can include but is not limited to sun exposure. Watch here.

7/15/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Britton Day who out of his own suffering has created the Suicide Monk website and podcast. On the About section of the website, he states, "I woke one day knowing I couldn't fight anymore. I am tired, I have lost everything and I'm to tired to fight one more moment, I am done. The road ahead looks like the same fight, the veil was lifting and my eyes began to see that darkness would never leave no matter what I did." Britton describes how his early life was filled with intense sadness, loss, abandonment, isolation, and his mother's mental illness and her violence. Unable to emotionally process what was happening to him, Britton's feelings turned into suicidality and then rage that continued to impact his overall life and had severe negative impact on his marriage. Britton shares on his experience taking Psilocybin and how he was able to with grace and forgiveness to transform his pain, shame, and anger into a person who is able to be with his emotions, appreciate his life, and help others. You can learn more about Britton and his mission and podcast at https://thesuicidemonk.com/. The Buddhist Monk mentioned by Dr. Kaufman during the podcast is Gelong Thubten who is the author of "The Monk's Guide to Happiness." Please note, Talking Back 2 Suicide recommends you consult your medical care provider if you are considering use of Psilocybin. Watch here.

7/22/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Terri Cheney, the New York Times best-selling author of "Manic: A Memoir" that tells her own story of living with Bipolar I Disorder. Terri made her first suicide attempt when she was just 7 yo. Terri has experienced times of disabling depression as well as times of unusual productivity and accomplishment (related to the Bipolar Disorder) as well as when severely manic engaging in impulsive behaviors which led to negative consequences. She was an A+ student who hid her depressive symptoms. Terri became an entertainment lawyer representing the likes of Michael Jackson, Quincy Jones, and major motion picture studios but found that her true calling was to be a writer who had the courage to share her own life story with others. Terri is also the author of "The Dark Side of Innocence: Growing Up Bipolar" and "Modern Madness: An Owner's Manual." Terri is writing a book about having "dual diagnosis" which is psychiatric illness with alcohol and/or substance abuse. Terri is shining a profoundly healing light and Talking Back 2 Suicide is so grateful for her sharing her story with us today. Watch here.

7/29/25- Our special guest on today's Talking Back 2 Suicide is Dr. Ron Schneebaum, who during his 40-year career as a primary care pediatrician regularly noted the power and importance of love for the human psyche. He also saw that when love is not felt, self-worth crumbles, and enjoyment of life decreases. Noting that the effects of not feeling loved can last a lifetime, he developed a path to turn these hurts around and used the approach—based on common sense and inner compassion—to help his patients and their families understand and manage their inner challenges. While serving on the Clinical Faculty at Dartmouth College’s Geisel School of Medicine, Dr. Schneebaum taught medical students how to add heart to their thinking by addressing their patients with caring and compassion, imagining their challenges from their patients’ perspectives, and speaking to them in ways that would connect with who they are. A Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatrics and a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Dr. Schneebaum left a thriving clinical practice to teach larger audiences ways to heal and experience greater happiness. He does this through his book, “Bigger Hearted: A Retired Pediatrician’s Prescriptions for Living a Happier Life,” podcasts, social media content, workshops, lectures, and individual consultations. His website is www.biggerhearted.com.  Watch here.

6/3/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is author Jennifer M. Shaw who speaks with such depth of understanding that comes from her lived experience of having Autism and ADHD which were not diagnosed until she was 39 years old. Feeling she was different, didn't belong and "broken," she developed suicidal thoughts starting in childhood. Jennifer's diagnosis came about when her young son was being evaluated for Autism as during the assessment she realized she had been living with similar symptoms, as well. Writing is Jennifer's passion, and her "Callum Walker" series has its fifth book being published this Sunday! With her experience and interests in healthcare, psychology, martial arts, and personal training, Jennifer pours her unique insights and knowledge into all her creative fictions. You can learn more about Jennifer at www. jmshawauthor.com. Watch here. 

6/10/25- Our special guest on today's Talking Back 2 Suicide is poet and author Kim Stafford who is an Emeritus Professor at Lewis and Clark College in Oregon. Kim writes, teaches, and travels to raise the human spirit through poetry. In 1986, he founded the Northwest Writing Institute, and he has published a dozen books of poetry and prose, including "The Muses Among Us: Eloquent Listening and Other Pleasures of the Writer’s Craft" and "100 Tricks Every Boy Can Do: How My Brother Disappeared." His most recent book is the poetry collection "As the Sky Begins to Change." He has taught writing in dozens of schools and community centers, and in Scotland, Italy, Mexico, and Bhutan. In 2018 Kim was named Oregon’s 9th Poet Laureate for a two-year term. Kim’s father, William Stafford, was the US Poet Laureate in 1970. In 1988, Kim’s older brother, Bret died by suicide at 40 years old. In, "100 Tricks Every Boy Can Do: How My Brother Disappeared," his memoir on his brother’s life and death, Kim writes: “Painful acts like suicide, and mysterious life dimensions like depression, tend to call forth both indelible memories and a velvet cloak of silence.” Learn more about Kim at www.kimstaffordpoet.com/ and follow his poetry on Instagram. Watch here.

6/17/25- Our special guest on today's Talking Back 2 Suicide is Mick Rowe, founder of Suicide Sucks! in the United Kingdom. In 1996, Mick's 27-year-old brother James died by suicide. Mick's podcast ⁠Still Here To Tell The Tale⁠ "aims to ditch the stigma by talking openly and honestly about suicide." Her website ⁠HOME | Suicide Sucks⁠ has many resources. Most importantly, Mick speaks on the need for us to be there for each other and to really listen so we can connect, and help. Mick shared about the 8-minute interaction (⁠Do You Have 8 Minutes? | AFSP) and ⁠ANDYSMANCLUB - It's Okay To Talk. which focuses on preventing suicide in men. Watch here.

6/24/25: Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is David Shamszad, a real estate CEO, industry leader, and writer who spent more than decade battling mental illness and addiction to drugs and alcohol. During his early twenties, David’s still undiagnosed and untreated mania and depression triggered suicidality and psychiatric hospitalization. For the next decade, David fought to regain and maintain his mental health, recovery from addiction, and to overcome the stigma standing in the way of self-care. With determination, treatment, radical personal changes, and support from his community, David’s life transformed into one of mental health well-being, sobriety, positive self-belief, and success. David is the author of the harrowing memoir, “I Am Someone You Know.” To learn more about David please see: https://davidshamszad.com/ and https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shamszad-16236310/. Watch here. 

5/3/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is renowned psychiatrist Dr. Manaan Kar Ray who is an international leader in suicide prevention. He trained as a psychiatrist in Oxford and for a decade was the Director for Mental Health Services in Cambridge, UK. Manaan is Founder and Head of Faculty at Progress Guide and is the Director for Mental Health at Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane, Australia. He is also an Associate Professor at the Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention at Griffith University. Learn more about his work at https://progress.guide/. Manaan's books are also available on Amazon. He welcomes being contacted on LinkedIn. Watch here.

5/6/25- Today's special guest on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Kim Lengling, an author and podcast host of Let Fear Bounce. Kim, who is also a veteran, shares on experiencing trauma, having anxiety and PTSD, and how she was able to lift herself up from "dark times" in her mind. She describes how "hope" is an antidote to fear and how telling stories of having courage in the midst of our fear and shame is healing to ourselves and others. Kim shares on how she came to write her book, "Nuggets of Hope" and how she practices kindness daily and hopes to inspire this in others. You can learn more about Kim at www.kimlenglingauthor.com. Watch here.

5/13/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Steve Schneider, the Director of the Firearm Suicide Prevention Program at Alliance for a Safe Oregon. Steve shares his experiences growing up in rural mid-west America where gun culture was an active part of his own family life, and how that and so many of his life experiences including being a medic in the Navy, being impacted by his own and his peers' mental health consequences from military service, traveling around the world as part of his college education, and much more have all informed what he brings to his passion for gun safety especially as it pertains to suicide prevention. As Steve so vehemently and compassionately shares, we all can be part of the solution. If you want to reach out to Steve, he's at steve@oralliance.org. Watch here.

5/20/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Frank King, known as the "mental health comedian." Frank's life story includes discovering his talent for humor at a young age, his becoming a stand-up comedian and also a comedy writer for 20 years for the Tonight Show, and very importantly a speaker to a vast array of audiences on suicide prevention. Frank describes the impact he experienced of the suicide deaths of his maternal grandmother and maternal great aunt, his own near suicide attempt, and his having chronic suicidal ideation. Frank has devoted his life to suicide prevention. www.mentalhealthcomedian.com. Watch here.

5/27/25- Our special guest on today's episode of Talking Back 2 Suicide is the very inspiring Randi-Lee Bowslaugh who is a poet, author, and mental health advocate. Randi shares on the impact of growing up in a family where her stepfather was an alcoholic and her brother became drug addicted. She explains about her not feeling wanted, and the difficulties she experienced "fitting in" and understanding social cues. Around 14 years old, Randi started to feel depressed. She had suicidal thoughts which developed into a suicidal plan, and she shares what stopped her from acting on that plan. In her 30's, Randi was diagnosed with Autism following her daughter being diagnosed with Autism at a young age. In 2021, Randi launched the Write or Die Podcast to help spread awareness about various mental health issues and to end the stigma associated with mental health. Randi is the author of the mental health awareness poetry books Thoughts of a Wanderer, Thoughts of a Warrior, as well as nonfiction books, children’s books, social stories, draw-your-own-story series, scary stories, and more. You can learn more about Randi at www.rbwriting.ca. Watch here. 

4/1/25- Our special guest for today's Talking Back 2 Suicide is internationally acclaimed author Tong Ge who shares her personal story of love, suicide loss, and what we as individuals and as a society can do to help prevent suicide. Tong Ge speaks on how being able to share so called "baggage," meaning our vulnerabilities and authentic self, with those who truly care, is key. Born and raised in China, Tong Gu moved to Canada in the late 1980s as an international student, earning a Master of Science degree from the University of Saskatchewan in 1992. Since 2012, Tong has been publishing poetry, prose, and short stories in both English and Chinese, using her own name and pen name to share her unique voice and insights with the world. Her work has been featured in prominent publications such as PRISM International, Ricepaper, Canadian Stories, Polyglot Magazine, and Vineyard Poetry Quarterly, as well as Chinese-language magazines like 渥水 and 远方的诗. Tong is the recipient of five literary awards and has been a finalist in four more. Tong Ge's debut novel, "The House Filler," was published in Canada in 2023. It was a 2023 Eyelands Book Awards finalist, won the 2024 Canadian Book Club Awards for fiction, won the 2024 Independent Press Award for new fiction, and was won the 2024 National Association of Independent Writers and Editors Award for Literary Fiction. Watch here.

4/8/25- Our special guest on today's Talking Back 2 Suicide is Marisa Harmon who courageously shares on her lived experience of suicide loss. Marisa has a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education Degree and her instrument emphasis was most notably in vocal expression. There can be silence, shame, and stigma related to mental distress, illness and suicide, be that personal and or familial, and we want to thank Marisa for her heartfelt sharing. Marisa has a Masters Degree in Reading and Literacy. Marisa was in theater productions beginning at eleven years old and joined a professional acting group during high school. She was cast in parts in local theaters and then had support and leading roles in musical theater and opera productions. Marisa’s been a vocal coach for many years and has worked with clients producing a scripted musical for children, recorded voiceover ads, podcast videos, commercial videos, vocal, singing, and recording projects, and has taken part in professional acting and singing in live venues in many different genres. Most importantly, Marisa says, “I just want to be able to help others not to have to go through what I did with the suicide of my father and for family members who have dealt with depression and suicidality. I know the suicide rate here in the USA and internationally, and it breaks my heart.” Watch here.

4/15/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is author Kevin Hall who takes us on an in-depth inquiry about guns and suicide. What can be done to prevent this tragic loss of life? To learn more about Kevin and the books he's written, please see www.kevin-hall.com. Watch here.

4/22/25- Our special guest today on Talking Back 2 Suicide is Benjamin (Ben) Barnes, aka Bencasso, an award winning artist, musician, educator, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate whose extraordinary life story is one of resilience, artistry, and innovation. His life story includes his having schizoaffective disorder bipolar disorder type, morbid depression, crippling anxiety, Traumatic Brain Injury, and PTSD. His career as a rock star and chamber musician, and recovery from two catastrophic injuries—surviving being hit by a train in a suicide attempt during a delusional episode, and a car, crossing the street after busking on Haight street in San Francisco, enduring traumatic brain injury and reconstructive surgeries, and having to relearn how to play music and sing are highlighted in this interview. Ben passionately advocates for the mentally ill, disabled, elderly, and homeless and uses his platform to raise awareness for mental health and recovery. Learn more about Ben and his creative work and advocacy: www.benjaminbarnes.com, www.bencasso.org, and www.culturescholar.org. Watch here. 

3/4/25- Our special guest is Kari Eckert, the Executive Director of Robbie's Hope. Kari's 15-year-old son, Robbie, died by suicide in 2018. Suicide prevention is Kari's life work. Per the Robbie's Hope website: "We are a movement. An uprising of teens to help other teens. We’ve made it our mission to stop the suicide epidemic that’s taking the lives of our friends. Help us cut teen suicide rates in half by 2028." Through their teenage volunteer "Hope Ambassadors" program, education on suicide prevention is made available. Kari shares her heartfelt story and emphasizes the need for us to honor our humanness by sharing with others what we are truly feeling. How the teenage years can be better navigated and what we as parents and other caring adults can do to be of help is discussed. The feelings of grief and the process of grief that can be experienced when a child dies by suicide is also shared. Being able to reach out for help, being kind to ourselves, and knowing we can hold on and get through the pain without having to end our life is emphasized. Watch here.

3/11/25- Our special guest, Eve Dunkins, is the "Founder and C.E.O. of The Art of Mindful Living Corporation. The Art of Mindful Living is comprised of over twenty-five years of steadfast dedicated service in the artistry of optimizing human potential. Her vocation is principally focused on mental health, raising public consciousness through advocacy and education, and advancing social causes by creating systemic and legislative changes. Power, purpose, and passion are the bedrock of her success. Evelyn knows firsthand the challenges of persevering and the triumphs of thriving and overcoming. Before earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Rutgers University, a Master of Social Work from New York University and a prominent career full of accolades, awards, and achievements, she was a survivor herself. At the peak of her career, Evelyn resigned to the public and private sector and left her position as C.E.O. to embark on a global humanitarian tour. Inspired by her journey, Evelyn wrote about her philosophies of deep transformational change and empowered living in her memoir, “The Woman in The Mirror: A Journey into the Authentic Self.” Evelyn embodies the philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi, "Be the change you want to see in the world.'" The above introduction and so much more is on: http://www.theartofmindfulliving.com/. Watch here.

3/18/25- Our special is Aliyah (aka Al) Davis who is a graphic artist, singer-songwriter, and has lived experienced of severe mental illness with psychotic symptoms, suicidal ideation, and suicidal behavior. Al is dedicated to helping others by sharing her mental health story which is also expressed in her music. Two of her songs are "Ghost Town" and "Blue Skies." Watch here.

3/25/25- Our special guest for today's Talking Back 2 Suicide is Alma Landon who shares how her work as a doula helps support the mental health well-being of women and their partners during the pregnancy, birth, and postpartum journey. Learn more about Alma at https://communitydoulaalliance.com/alma-landon/. Watch here.

2/4/25- Our special guest, Douglas Lawrence, is the founder of TalentC(R) and Co-founder of the International Mentor Community. Doug shares his mental health journey which includes PTSD related to trauma he experienced (such as responding to 14 or more suicide deaths) during his service in the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) for 25 years. Retired in February of 1999, he achieved the rank of Staff Sargent. Doug speaks of turning to alcohol to deal with the stress and realized this was not beneficial. He deeply shares about the love and support he received from his wife and how her death from cancer impacted him. Doug shares on grief and how he experienced suicidal thoughts after her death, and what has strengthened him to live on. Doug is the author of "You Are Not Alone," which received Bronze Medal at the Global Book Awards, and "The Gift of Mentoring." His latest book, "Grief: The Silent Pandemic," is coming out on April 20th and is available now for pre-order. To learn more about Doug and his mentoring services, please see https://talentc.ca/. Watch here.

2/11/25- Our special guest on today's Talking Back 2 Suicide podcast is Adria Glenn, who is an R&B singer-songwriter. She performed at the Listening Room Film Festival in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and it was at that event where Dr. Kaufman and she first met. Adria shares with heartfelt vulnerability about her creative and mental health journey through experiences of abuse and turning to alcohol, and becoming depressed with suicidal thoughts, to her finding the spiritual strength to use her musical gifts to empower herself and others. Adria has 23 singles inclusive of collaborations on all digital platforms. She released three new singles and videos in 2023: “Reality,” “Blocked,” and “The Best” and in 2024 she released a single and video called “New to Me,” all are available on all platforms. On November 14, 2024, Adria released her new song called “Free” which speaks to her emotional release and freedom Also, on the same day she made her starring appearance on the big screen in the​ R&B Musical, “Things We Do for Love”, produced by Heal the Hood Foundation. Adria is currently working on her first album to be released in 2025. Adria's youtube channel. Watch here.

2/18/25- Mental Health Recovery is Possible. Our special guest, Kristina Dejuri (aka Krispy DeRato), is a singer/songwriter and music producer. Kristina shares deeply on her own mental health journey which has included self-cutting, suicidal ideation, eating disordered behavior, mood swings, anxiety, and difficulties with relationships. Kristina received outpatient, inpatient, and residential treatments. Thankfully, Kristina is doing very well now and shares how her brain maturation plus having proper eating, sleeping, and engaging in overall self-care as well as being on appropriate medications for ADHD and Bipolar Disorder have very much helped her. Learn more and watch her music videos here. Watch here.

2/25/25- Our special guest is singer-songwriter Ginger Winn whose father died by suicide. Ginger and Diane Kaufman, MD met on the freelance site Upwork a few years ago and most recently worked together on the creation of the "For You My Lovely" song inspired by Diane's lyric. That song is for all who love and one day will grieve and is especially dedicated to suicide loss survivors. "For You My Lovely" has won international awards for Best Lyric and Best Original song and the lyric video includes the 988 suicide & crisis lifeline number. Little did they know when they met, that Ginger's own father would die by suicide. Ginger shares deeply and authentically about her suicide loss experience, touching upon her father, family members, friends, and what has helped her the most. She hopes her words will help others reach out and find the help they need as that person having suicidal thoughts is not a burden. They are loved and their loved ones want so much to help them stay alive. Watch here.

1/7/25- Our special guest is music therapist Dahlia Pollack who authentically shares her mental health journey of ADHD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar II Disorder, suicidal thoughts, and experiencing suicide loss. She describes in detail how music therapy offers help for both physical and emotional disorders. See www.musictherapy.org for the American Music Therapy Association. See www.resonatewithinmusictherapy.com to learn more about Dahlia and hermusic therapy services. Watch here.

1/14/25- Our special guest Dr. Michael Acton is a world-renowned psychologist, relationship expert and author. He is a mental health advocate with special expertise in preventing suicide that comes from relationship distress. His most recent book, "Weathering Relationships: Making Up Moving On," empowers individuals to be in healthy relationships. Dr. Acton shares on his life journey as well as topics of shame, toxic relationships, triggers to suicide in relationships, safety planning, and the need to understand most importantly, that in a relationship we are "committed to the commitment" and this has definite "rules and boundaries." Learn more about Dr. Acton at www.mpamind.com. Watch here.


1/21/25- Our special guest is Rafia Maxie-Cole who is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a mother, suicide loss survivor, and the founder/director of Soul Survivors of Chicago. On May 27, 2020, Rafiah's 19-year-old son, Jamal, died by suicide. Jamal was a bright, sensitive, caring, and talented young man. He first attempted suicide when he was 12 years old. He was the victim of bullying. Rafiah speaks from the heart, authentically and passionately to help save lives from suicide and to offer comfort and understanding to those grieving their loved ones who died by suicide. Watch here.

1/28/25- Our special guest, Daniel Stih, is a Renaissance Man, Thought Leader, Rocket Scientist, Rock Climber, and Singer-Songwriter as well as an Inspirational Speaker, Podcaster, and Life Coach. His most recent book, "Because You Can: How to Succeed Under Difficult Circumstances: Lessons Learned From Climbing Mountains That Had Never Been Climbed" is based on his life experiences. Daniel's passion is finding creative solutions to complex problems. In his most recent podcast titled, "How Living Your Purpose Can Change the World Around You," Daniel urges, “Your purpose is not what you think. Your purpose is to be flexible, evolving, and deeply personal and authentic. Your purpose is to do the thing you feel called to do in this moment, today right now... What would you do if nothing could hold you back? Now take one small step.” Daniel shares insights he's learned on his life journey that can help prevent suicide by encouraging us to believe in ourselves and to make necessary changes in our life rather than becoming hopeless and giving up. Living our purpose is part of that plan. Watch here.