Build a Mind That Can Thrive | Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble | E61

For generations, "be strong" meant staying silent. If you were struggling, you pushed through. If you were overwhelmed, you kept it to yourself. But what if some of the habits we call resilience are actually keeping us from healing? In this episode, Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble joins JoJo and Vanessa to unpack the generational beliefs that shaped how we think about mental health, why so many people don't recognize when they need help, and the practical tools that make healing feel possible. From therapy and self-awareness to community, social media, and everyday habits, this conversation is a reminder that taking care of your mind isn't a weakness. It's one of the most important investments you can make in yourself. In This Episode, JoJo, Vanessa, and Dr. Alfiee: (00:00) Introduction (05:04) Why "Be Strong" Kept Generations Silent (18:14) Making Mental Health Feel More Accessible (25:02) Why Gen Z Feels More Overwhelmed Than Ever (33:17) The Everyday Habits That Support Healing (48:11) Healing Through Community and Purpose Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble is a psychologist, scientist, author, and founder of the AAKOMA Project, a nonprofit dedicated to improving mental health care for young people and communities of color. A 2024 Melinda French Gates Global Leader, she is known for advancing mental health equity through culturally informed research, advocacy, and her book Rise and Thrive, making mental health more accessible, practical, and relevant for navigating everyday challenges. Resources Mentioned:  Dr. Alfiee's Book, Rise and Thrive: A mental health workbook for youth & for the young person inside all of us: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GQCX2TWQ  AAKOMA Website: https://aakomaproject.org/  Connect with Dr. Alfiee: Dr. Alfiee Website: https://dralfiee.com/  Dr. Alfiee LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dralfiee/  Dr. Alfiee Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dralfiee/  Connect with JoJo: JoJo’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-jojo-simmons/    JoJo’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jojo_simmons/  For Good Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forgoodpodcast/  3isfor Website: https://3isfor.com/  Connect with Vanessa: Vanessa’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanessajsimmons/  Vanessa’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vanessajsimmonsxo/ U4IA Now: https://www.instagram.com/u4ianow/  If this episode inspired you, leave a review and share it with someone who could use the message. The best conversations don't end here — they continue through the lives we impact. Personal Growth, Mental Health, Purpose, Community, Culture, Faith, Mindset, Self-Improvement, Relationships, Growth, Impact, Wellness, Motivation, Personal Development