Bloom with Dr. Darlene

You asked, and Dr. Darlene answered. In this episode, Dr. Darlene responds to personal questions from viewers about some of life’s most meaningful and sometimes difficult topics, including therapy, dating, falling in love, parenting, and sustaining faith through challenging seasons. Join her for candid reflections and personal insights on relationships, family, healing, and what it means to keep growing through every season of life.LinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

Let’s have the conversation. This episode explores women’s sexual health, with a focus on the ways our physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being intersect. Dr. Darlene shares what she has learned from and discussed with experts about women’s physical sexual health. She goes on to the psychological aspects of why understanding what you need is an essential part of self-care and how communicating those needs can transform the way women experience themselves and their relationships.A Special Note About Our Scheduled Guests:The experts originally scheduled to join Dr. Darlene for this conversation experienced a last-minute emergency and were unable to participate in the episode. We’re grateful for their willingness to be part of this important conversation and have included their bios below so you can learn more about their work and expertise.Julia Toussaint, RN, MSN, MBAJulia Toussaint is a registered nurse and healthcare professional with over 10 years of experience in high-acuity PACU care and clinical management. In 2023, she transitioned into medical aesthetics and founded Divine Glow Aesthetics, driven by her passion for women’s health and wellness. Under the expert mentorship of her partner, Teri Messina, Julia specialized in women’s sexual health, vaginal rejuvenation, and pelvic floor therapy. Currently pursuing her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), she is dedicated to providing evidence-based care in body contouring and sexual wellness, helping women feel confident, healthy, and vibrant through every stage of life.Teri Messina, RN, PRP SpecialistWith over a decade of clinical experience as a registered nurse in high-acuity emergency medicine, Terry combines exceptional clinical precision with a deep passion for women's sexual health and regenerative aesthetics. Recognizing a vital need for specialized care, she focused her practice on sexual health education and advanced rejuvenation, training directly under Dr. Charles Runels (the pioneer of the O-Shot ®). To date, Terry has performed over 3000 O-Shot ® procedures, mastering the use of Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) to transform the lives of pre- and post-menopausal women. Serving the serving patients across Nassau and Suffolk County, she continues to advance the fields of pelvic floor therapy and vaginal rejuvenation, pairing her rigorous ER background with a compassionate, results driven approach to helping women reclaim their confidence and vitality.For more information contact:516-201-0726516-343-8459Sexual Health – divineglowaesthetics.comLinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

A frequent viewer question is, “How did you start writing books?” In this episode, Dr. Darlene takes you behind the scenes to answer that question honestly and personally. She shares the stories and circumstances that inspired each of her books and reveals how those experiences ultimately evolved into her newest series, B.L.O.O.M. Be Loving to Ourselves and Others More. It’s a story about inspiration, growth, and following an idea where it wants to lead.LinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

Content AdvisoryThis episode contains discussions of overdose, addiction, and grief that may be difficult for some viewers. Please take care while listening.Love doesn't end with loss. It finds new ways to grow. In this inspiring episode, Dr. Darlene’s guest, Linda Nuszen, shares the life and legacy of her son, Adam, with honesty, warmth, and grace. After losing him to an overdose, she founded a nonprofit, Beading Hearts, dedicated to supporting people in recovery and reminding families that they are never alone. Together, Dr. Darlene and Linda explore grief, recovery, resilience, and the extraordinary ways love can create lasting change. This conversation is filled with courage, compassion, and the enduring impact of a mother's love.https://beadinghearts.orgYou Are Not AloneIf you or someone you love is struggling with substance use, help is available.SAMHSA's National Helpline1-800-662-HELP (4357)Free, confidential support available 24/7.Or visit findtreatment.gov to locate treatment and recovery resources.LinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

Why is the same behavior often interpreted differently based on who is doing it? In this powerful intergenerational conversation, Dr. Darlene and her grandson, Ilias Moore, share personal experiences and honest reflections of the challenges Black youth continue to face in today's schools. They discuss how Black students are frequently judged by a different standard than their white peers and the consequences of those perceptions. This examination of unequal treatment, implicit bias, and the disciplinary disparities that shape students’ educational experiences emphasizes the importance of creating more equitable learning environments through understanding and honest dialogue.LinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

Most of us believe we're fair, open-minded, and objective, but what if our unconscious biases are influencing our decisions and actions without us even realizing it?In this impactful episode, Dr. Darlene and her guest, Laura Harding, activist, attorney, and CEO of Harding Strategies and Consulting, unpack two topics that often spark discomfort but are essential for creating more inclusive environments: implicit bias and microaggressions. They explore the hidden ways implicit bias shows up in everyday interactions, the impact of microaggressions, and how greater self-awareness can lead to stronger relationships, better communication, and more inclusive communities and organizations. By approaching these conversations with curiosity and openness, rather than assigning blame or getting defensive, we create opportunities for growth, understanding, and meaningful change by recognizing our blind spots and learning from them.Guest Link: linkedin.com/in/laura-harding-42832410LinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

What does it take to build a friendship that not only survives differences but is strengthened by them? Dr. Darlene welcomes her best friend and chosen sister, Maureen Canter, for an honest conversation about the moments that shaped their lifelong bond. Through personal stories, laughter, vulnerability, and hard-earned wisdom, they share how navigating racial and cultural differences has deepened their trust, expanded their perspectives, and created a relationship rooted in love and mutual respect.LinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

Men's sexual health is about more than performance. It's about vitality, confidence, connection, and overall well-being. In this episode of Bloom, Dr. Darlene welcomes Dr. Elliot Forman and his partner, Marcia DeLeon, to discuss the most common challenges men face when it comes to sexual health and performance. Together, they explore the factors that can affect libido, energy, confidence, and function and how addressing overall health may play a role in improving quality of life, not just for men but for women as well. Join us for an informative and candid conversation that encourages everyone to prioritize their health, ask questions, and take proactive steps toward living well.LinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

In this deeply personal episode of Bloom, Dr. Darlene sits down with Melissa Marius-Burke for a heartfelt conversation about her father's bipolar disorder, his death by suicide, and the journey of grief that followed. Melissa reflects on how working with Dr. Darlene helped her gain a deeper understanding of her father's mental illness, which has helped her make sense of painful memories, process her loss, and find a path toward healing. Together, they explore how compassion, education, and honest conversation can transform confusion into understanding. Whether you've experienced mental illness in your own family, supported a loved one, or simply want to better understand the lasting impact it can have, this episode offers hope, perspective, and healing.LinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

In this episode of Bloom with Dr. Darlene, licensed clinical social worker Charles Cox shares expert insights into some of today's most common parenting challenges. Together, he and Dr. Darlene discuss how to move beyond generational parenting, offering practical ways to strengthen parent-child relationships, encourage open communication, and help children feel heard and understood. Strong parenting isn't about having all the answers; it's about creating a relationship where children feel safe enough to share their questions, struggles, and experiences. Whether you're parenting a toddler, school-aged child, or teenager, this conversation offers practical tools and insights to help your family flourish.Guest LinkWebsite link:Home - CHARLES E.COX LCSW-RLinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

What does debt do to our minds, our relationships, and our sense of self? In this episode, three financial experts join Dr. Darlene to unpack the emotional, psychological, and financial impact of being in debt, from stress and shame to anxiety and the lasting effects of poor credit. Alongside their professional expertise, her guests also share their own personal financial challenges, offering a firsthand perspective on the realities of navigating debt and the path toward recovery. Together, the conversation moves beyond self-blame and toward understanding and solutions. This episode is a thoughtful, compassionate look at debt as both a financial and emotional experience and a reminder that progress is possible with the right tools, guidance, and support.This podcast is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as investment, legal, tax, or financial advice. Listeners should not rely on this information as a substitute for individualized advice tailored to their specific circumstances. Always consult with a qualified financial, tax, or legal professional before making any decisions. Any examples or scenarios discussed are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent actual client experiences or results. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance or examples are not indicative of future results.Property & Casualty insurance is offered through a variety of quality insurance companies that are not affiliated with MML Investors Services, LLC."Local firms are sales offices of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual), Springfield, MA 01111-0001 and are not subsidiaries of MassMutual or its affiliated companies Charles Ciravolo is a registered representative of and offers securities and investment advisory services through MML Investors Services, LLC. Member SIPC. 88 Froehlich Farm Blvd., Ste. 320, Woodbury, NY 11797-2944 (516) 364-4203 CRN202906-11384075LinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

Juneteenth is a reminder not only of freedom delayed, but of the ongoing responsibility to protect, expand, and live that freedom fully. In this meaningful episode, the show’s Executive Producer and esteemed civil rights attorney, Frederick K. Brewington, joins Dr. Darlene for a powerful and deeply personal discussion on the state of politics today, what true positive leadership and advocacy looks like, and why open dialogue, understanding where we came from and what people fought for, remains essential to progress. He reflects on his early introduction to racism, the experiences that shaped his life’s work, and some of the most meaningful cases that have defined his commitment to and fight for justice. Together, they also explore the importance of representation in schools, and how seeing ourselves fully and fairly reflected can shape opportunity, dignity, and belonging. He stresses the value of community gathering and taking action, together they can move mountains. Grounded in the spirit of Juneteenth and the mission of BLOOM, this conversation is a call to lead with truth, courage, and compassion.Guest Link: https://www.brewingtonlaw.com/LinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

In this heartfelt episode, Dr. Darlene welcomes school principal, educator, and author Keith D. Saunders Sr. to talk about the story behind his recent book, Roosevelt to the Hamptons: The War on Both Sides. Together, they explore how his life experiences shaped this coming-of-age story and how trauma, while painful, can also become a pathway to healing, growth, and purpose. Rooted in the spirit of BLOOM, this conversation offers a powerful reminder that our hardest chapters do not have to be the end of our story. LinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

What happens when we prioritize our well-being? In this episode, Dr. Darlene sits down with two fitness experts, Onix Salva, owner of Speed Island, and Kathy Leistner. Personal Trainer and widow of Dr. Ken Leistner, who shares the powerful ways exercise and healthy living have influenced their personal growth, relationships, and professional success. You'll hear personal experiences, practical wisdom, and encouragement to embrace wellness as an act of self-respect and love. Because when we take care of ourselves, we're better equipped to show up for the people we care about.Guest Linkswww.speedislandny.comLinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Darlene welcomes two extraordinary young leaders who are using their voices and platforms to uplift others and create positive change. Laiba Idrees, founder and executive director of Actualize Foundation, and Lukas Venturas, congressional candidate for New York District 1, share the experiences that shaped their passion for service, leadership, and community impact. Their conversation highlights the importance of empathy, connection, and showing up for others, while reflecting on how their personal experiences helped them appreciate different cultural perspectives and recognize the shared values that bring communities together.https:actualizefoundation.orghttps://lukasforcongress.comLinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

A poet and a jazz musician join Dr. Darlene for a soulful exploration of creativity, inspiration, and expression. Through stories, reflection, and live performances, they share what moves them to create, and how art becomes a form of love, connection, and healing. An invitation to BLOOM through song, language, and presence.Rashann Cruse, Jr.https://rahsaancrusejr.online/https://www.instagram.com/rahsaancrusejrofficial/?hl=enDr. Shirley Darkehhttps://patch.com/new-york/across-ny/curated-shirley-darkeh-homegrown-heroes-long-island-uses-visual-storytellinghttps://www.adelphi.edu/events/a-labor-of-love/LinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

Dr. Darlene welcomes two powerhouse women attorneys for a candid conversation on communication and perception in relationships. Together, they explore the tension between communicating with strength and softness and between being heard and being misread. From navigating bias in professional spaces to building trust in relationships, they discuss blind spots, vulnerability, self-reflection, and the courage to communicate with intention.LinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

In this deeply personal episode, Dr. Darlene welcomes a dear friend, accomplished attorney and seasoned minister who spent years holding marriage workshops alongside his late wife. Together, they discuss the spiritual and practical foundations of a strong marriage: commitment, grace, communication, and staying anchored through life’s challenges. It’s an inspiring conversation about enduring love and the principles that help couples stay the course.LinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

Marriage isn’t just about staying together. It’s about growing together. In this episode, two couples sit down with Dr. Darlene and open up about the quieter work of love, working through struggles, evolving as individuals, and finding meaningful ways to care for themselves and each other. Their stories reveal how self-awareness and daily acts of love can transform a relationship from surviving to thriving.LinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

What happens when love meets orders, moves, and months apart? Dr. Darlene asked two military couples to record themselves answering some real questions about their marriages. The result: candid conversations about sacrifice, communication, identity shifts, and staying connected through it all. Real talk, real stories, and an honest, human look at love shaped by service.LinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

In this episode, Dr. Darlene has a candid conversation with men, taking a deeper look at male perspectives in relationships. Together, they explore attraction, emotional needs, vulnerability, and the impact of toxic masculinity on modern dating. It’s an honest, no-filter conversation about authenticity, communication, and what it really takes to build a strong connection.LinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

In the second of a two-part conversation, Dr. Garlington sits down with some of the ladies from the Bloom group to discuss the various topics that are explored in the group. This episode focuses on trauma, including marital conflict, sexual assault, and family dysfunction.LinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

In the first of a two-part conversation, Dr. Garlington sits down with some of the ladies from the Bloom group to discuss the various topics that are explored in the group. Topics include relationships with men, the difference between sex and making love, assertive communication and other complex issues women face.LinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3

Meet Dr. Darlene, a psychologist who promotes being loving to self and others as a way of life. Listeners will learn about Dr. Darlene, her work, and what is on the horizon for future episodes.LinksWebsite: https://www.drdarlene.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLOOMwithDrDarleneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomwithdrdarlene/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bloomwithdrdarleneSubscribe to us on YouTube to watch our show: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomwithdrdarlenePurchase Dr. Darlene's books: https://amzn.to/47YEtk3