Anthony Crawford: Mental Health, Truth, and the Power of Knowing Who You Are - The Real Room Ep 29

In this powerful episode of The Real Room, host LaCretia Mitchell sits down with educator, poet, and community builder Anthony Crawford to unpack a story rooted in resilience, faith, and truth-telling.Born in Los Angeles and shaped by the realities of South Central, Anthony’s journey led him to Oklahoma and a life dedicated to teaching, mentoring, and creating safe spaces for young people. But behind the classroom and the poetry, Anthony has faced deep personal loss, depression, and the weight of being a Black man navigating grief in silence.In this conversation, Anthony opens up about:Growing up in LA and the programs that kept him from the streets.His path to education and becoming a counselor and mentor.The importance of safe spaces for Black men to speak their truth.His beliefs about Black identity, history, and the power of reclaiming our true origins.How loss, faith, and art continue to shape his purpose.This episode isn’t just about poetry or teaching—it’s about restoration, identity, and the courage to keep speaking even when the weight feels unbearable.