PODCAST · health
James's Warr;ors
by Donna Thomas
This podcast is dedicated to having real conversations about mental health illness and suicide prevention. My journey started in 2018 when my 19 year old son died by suicide. He was never diagnosed with a mental health illness. I have learned so much on this path. I started a not for profit organization, James's Warriors. We speak in schools, colleges and community based programs. We support mothers through grief and others on their recovery. Our program is called No One Walks Alone. Our conversations will be raw and honest. We will discuss not only coping skills and resources but also how to change the stigma associated with mental illness. There will be probably some laughter as I am winging it everyday!
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19
What is your Love Language?
🎙️ Another episode of the James's Warr;ors – No One Walks Alone Podcast is now available! This week we're asking… What is your love language? For those of us who haven't dated in 30 years… your what?! 😳 We're diving into why understanding love languages matters — whether you're stepping back into the dating scene or working on strengthening your relationship as a couple. Communication matters. Feeling seen matters. Feeling loved in the way you receive love matters. Tune in and maybe learn something new about yourself. 💕 #JamesWarr;ors #NoOneWalksAlone #LoveLanguage #HealthyRelationships #MentalHealthAwareness
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18
A chat with Lori Tatarsky
In this episode of James's Warriors podcast, host Donna Thomas, John Burton, Dawn, Kerri Audino and Lori Eve Tatarsky discuss the journey of mental health advocacy. Lori shares her personal experiences with bipolar disorder, the impact of trauma, and the importance of family support. The conversation highlights the role of humor in healing, the stigma surrounding mental illness, and the distinction between remission and cure. Lori emphasizes the significance of holistic approaches to wellness and the beauty of life despite mental health challenges. The episode concludes with Lori discussing her current projects and the importance of giving back to the community.
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17
Is this sadness or Am I slipping into depression?
On this episode of the James's Warr;ors – No One Walks Alone podcast, Donna, Dawn, and John are joined by two incredible guests: Trish Burton (John's wife) and Kerri Audino, James's Warr;ors board member, family friend, and social worker. Together, we dive into an important and often confusing question: How do you know if you're slipping back into depression—or simply experiencing a bout of sadness? Our hosts open up with personal stories, real-life examples, and honest reflections about the signs, symptoms, and subtle shifts that can signal when someone might need extra support. This conversation is heartfelt, educational, and a reminder that No One Walks Alone—not in their struggles, and not in their healing.
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16
Should Depression get the best of me, know this ...
🎙️ James's Warriors Podcast – No One Walks Alone In this episode, we open up about one of the hardest conversations — the darkness of suicide and the deep grief that follows. We ask the questions that weigh on every heart left behind: Did they know we loved them? Did they hear us? We share why it's so important to continue our presentations — to reach those who are living in silence with their mental illness, and to remind them that they are not alone. This episode also features a song whose words capture what so many may feel when their thoughts are thinking the world is better off without them.💜 #NoOneWalksAlone #JamesWarriors #MentalHealthAwareness #SuicidePrevention #YouAreNotAlone
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15
There is no blame in this game!
🎙️ In this episode, Donna, Dawn, and John Burton cover a range of important topics — from the life-saving #988 crisis line, to highlights of our 2nd Annual Music Festival No One Rocks Alone, and even a tougher, but necessary, conversation about blame and suicide. 💚 Give us a listen on all podcast platforms, through our social media links, or on our website. And remember our motto: No One Walks Alone.
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14
Tips on helping your child transition to middle school to high school with a mental illness diagnosis
In this episode of James's Warriors Podcast – No One Walks Alone, Donna, Dawn, and John Burton sit down with Kerri, a social worker from a Capital Region high school, to talk about how to help your child successfully transition from middle school to high school especially if they have a mental illness diagnosis.
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13
Boredom! What is it really trying to tell us?
Welcome back to James's Warriors: No One Walks Alone Podcast 💙 This week, Donna Thomas, Dawn Cavaccini, John Burton, and special guest Trish Burton dive into something we all feel but rarely talk about — boredom. Why does it creep in when life finally slows down? And what is it really trying to tell us? 👀 Hint: It's more than just "nothing to do." Tune in now — this one's thoughtful, eye-opening, and yes… definitely not boring.
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12
Conversation with John Irizarry
New Episode This Week – Featuring Special Guest: John Irizarry This week's episode is a powerful one. We are honored to welcome musician and songwriter John Irizarry, who shares the deeply personal story behind the album he wrote for his daughter, Izzy, who died by suicide. 💿 The album, This Girl, is a beautifully written tribute—raw, emotional, and full of love. Listening to it gave me goosebumps. This conversation is about more than music. It's about grief, healing, and the journey of living after the unimaginable loss of a child. John opens up about how creating this album helped him process his grief—and how music can be a lifeline not only for the artist but for those who listen. Please join me, Dawn, and our guest John Irizarry, for this moving and inspiring episode. 💛 You are not alone. No one walks alone.
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11
Are you crazy? Is it grief? Or is it Menopause?
🎙️ New Episode Alert! "Are You Crazy? Is It Grief? Or Is It Menopause?" You might be wondering: why is James's Warr;ors – No One Walks Alone podcast talking about menopause? Because mental health matters. This 10-year journey can bring depression, anxiety, and over 60 other symptoms. It's not just physical — it's deeply emotional and psychological. That's why this episode is a must-listen for women, mothers facing grief, and the partners who walk this path with them. Join Dawn, John, and Donna as they dive into what this transformation really looks and feels like. Honest, raw, and empowering. 🎧 Available now wherever you get your podcasts.
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10
Navigating Mother's Day in Grief
Episode11: Navigating Mother's Day in Grief On this episode of No One Walks Alone, James's Warriors podcast, John, Dawn, and Donna explore the complex emotions surrounding Mother's Day for moms who are grieving the loss of a child. They reflect on what the second year of grief can look like, the ongoing process of "grief work," and how mourning evolves over time. Whether you're a mother walking this difficult path or someone supporting a grieving mom, this heartfelt conversation offers compassion, understanding, and insight for the journey. https://www.jamesswarriors.org/blog-3-1/navigating-mothers-day-in-grief-episode-11
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9
The Lifted Project
On this episode of James's Warr;ors: No One Walks Alone Podcast, we explore The Lifted Project created by John Burton. Join Donna, Dawn, and John as they share the powerful, emotional journey behind this inspiring "We Are the World" concept that took place in the heart of the Hudson Valley. Discover how a single room filled with people transformed into an unforgettable experience of unity, healing, and hope.
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8
Conversation with our friend Tim Patrick from Pieces to Wellness Podcast
In this episode of James' Warriors, the hosts engage in a heartfelt conversation with Tim from Pieces to Wellness, exploring themes of mental health advocacy, personal growth, and the importance of community support. Tim shares his journey of self-publishing a book, the significance of journaling, and the challenges he faced during personal crises. The discussion emphasizes the need for self-compassion, the role of peer support, and the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. The conversation highlights that mental health treatment is both an art and a science, requiring a toolbox of strategies for effective management. In this conversation, the participants explore the themes of vulnerability, connection, and personal growth through various experiences and practices. They discuss the importance of breaking the cycle of silence in communication, the lessons learned from podcasting, and the healing power of music. The conversation also delves into mindfulness practices, the challenges of self-sabotage, and the necessity of routine maintenance for mental health. Ultimately, they emphasize the intrinsic nature of growth and the importance of acceptance in one's journey.
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7
James's Warr;ors 5th Year Anniversary
In this special episode of the James's Warrior podcast, John Burton interviews Donna Thomas and Dawn Cavaccini, the founders of James's Warriors, as they celebrate five years of impactful work in suicide prevention. The conversation explores the challenges of doing good, the importance of joy in their mission, and the evolution of their program. They share personal stories of healing through helping others and the significance of community support in their journey. The episode highlights the bravery required to confront grief and the hope they aim to instill in the lives of those they reach. In this conversation, Donna Thomas, Dawn Cavaccini, and John Burton discuss the profound impact of their work in suicide prevention through James' Warriors. They explore the importance of saving lives, community involvement, and the evolution of their approaches to mental health advocacy. The discussion highlights their aspirations for the future, the significance of community events, and the personal fulfillment they derive from their advocacy work. They also address the stigma surrounding suicide and the need for open conversations about mental health.
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6
Episode Five, Mental Health in the School.
This conversation delves into the pressing issue of mental health in schools, exploring the challenges educators face in addressing students' mental health needs while maintaining academic standards. The discussion highlights the importance of communication between teachers, administrators, and parents, as well as the need for mindfulness and preventive measures in education. The speakers share personal experiences and insights on building trust with students, recognizing hidden struggles, and the necessity for comprehensive mental health resources within the school system. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the complex interplay between mental health and education, emphasizing the need for better support systems for students, teachers, and parents. They highlight the challenges faced by students with mental health issues, the importance of creating a supportive educational environment, and the necessity for comprehensive teacher training. The discussion also touches on the role of community collaboration in addressing mental health awareness and the need for open conversations about these issues.
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5
Fourth Episode David Henry
In this episode of 'No One Walks Alone', host Donna Thomas, along with Co-host Dawn Cavaccini, John Burton, and David Henry, delve into the critical relationship between exercise, nutrition, and mental health. They discuss personal experiences with dietary changes, the importance of accountability in fitness, and the role of sleep in overall wellness. The conversation also touches on the challenges of weight loss, particularly for women, and the misconceptions surrounding muscle and fat. David shares insights on effective training methods and nutritional strategies, emphasizing the need for personalized approaches to health and wellness. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of caloric balance in weight management, the mental health benefits of exercise, and strategies for overcoming barriers to physical activity. They share personal stories of transformation and emphasize the significance of building healthy habits and finding motivation. The discussion highlights the need for relatable experiences and the role of support systems in achieving wellness goals. To learn more about James's Warr;ors please go our website: https://www.jamesswarriors.org/ Or on social media, Facebook and Instagram
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3 RD Episode Dr. Jaimee.
In this episode, Donna Thomas, along with guests Dawn Cavaccini and John Burton, engage in a deep conversation with Dr. Jaimee Arnoff, a clinical psychologist specializing in youth mental health. They discuss the importance of parental involvement in therapy, the creation of coping kits for teens, and the need for open communication within families. The conversation highlights the challenges teens face in expressing their feelings and the role of therapists in facilitating these discussions. The episode emphasizes the significance of agency for teens and the complexities of navigating family dynamics when it comes to mental health. This conversation delves into the complexities of teen therapy, focusing on the importance of family dynamics, empowering teens through choice, and the challenges parents face in supporting their children. The speakers discuss the significance of vulnerability in building connections, the need for resources in crisis situations, and the effective use of local support systems in Dutchess County. The dialogue emphasizes the collaborative effort required from both therapists and families to navigate mental health issues and foster a supportive environment for teens. For more information about James's Warr;ors go to our website: https://www.jamesswarriors.org/ Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at James's Warriors
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3
2nd Episode Healing vs Surviving
Summary In this episode of the James' Warriors podcast, Donna Thomas, Dawn Cavaccini, and John Burton discuss the complexities of mental health, healing, and the journey of survival after loss. They share personal stories of grief, recovery, and the importance of support systems. The conversation delves into the nuances of language surrounding mental health, the impact of daily routines, and the significance of coping strategies. John shares his transformative journey from crisis to recovery, emphasizing the role of family and the importance of maintaining connections with loved ones. The episode concludes with reflections on finding meaning and purpose after loss, and the ongoing journey of healing. In this conversation, John Burton, Donna Thomas, and Dawn discuss the complexities of managing grief and trauma, emphasizing the importance of healing and surviving. They explore the interconnectedness of grief and healing, the challenges of suicidal ideation, and the significance of pausing to reflect. The role of nature in healing and the chronic nature of grief are highlighted, along with the need to break the stigma surrounding mental health. The conversation concludes with a focus on supporting each other through loss and the importance of open communication. For more information about James's Warr:ors go to our website: https://www.jamesswarriors.org/ Followus on Facebook and Instagram :James's Warriors
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2
Who we are.
In this episode, John Burton hosts a conversation with Donna Thomas and Dawn, founders of James's Warriors, a community organization dedicated to mental health awareness and suicide prevention. They share the story behind the organization, which was born from personal tragedy and a desire to change the stigma surrounding mental health. The discussion covers their fundraising efforts, the importance of community engagement, and the balance between addressing the darkness of mental health issues while also celebrating life and hope. They emphasize the message that no one has to walk this journey alone and the therapeutic power of shared experiences and humor in healing. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the critical importance of engaging with students about mental health and suicide prevention. They emphasize the need to break down stigmas surrounding these topics, encouraging open conversations in schools and communities. The speakers share personal experiences and insights on how these discussions can save lives and foster a supportive environment for youth. They also highlight the role of parents and the community in facilitating these conversations and the necessity of grassroots efforts to create lasting change. Please be patient as we learn all there is to produce a great podcast. * Please make sure you follow your medical doctor and or mental health provider health plan. We are in no way giving medical or mental health advise. We are expressing our personal experiences. If you are struggling, please reach out to #988 For more information about James's Warr:ors go to our website: https://www.jamesswarriors.org/ You can followus on Facebook and Instagram- James's Warriors
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
This podcast is dedicated to having real conversations about mental health illness and suicide prevention. My journey started in 2018 when my 19 year old son died by suicide. He was never diagnosed with a mental health illness. I have learned so much on this path. I started a not for profit organization, James's Warriors. We speak in schools, colleges and community based programs. We support mothers through grief and others on their recovery. Our program is called No One Walks Alone. Our conversations will be raw and honest. We will discuss not only coping skills and resources but also how to change the stigma associated with mental illness. There will be probably some laughter as I am winging it everyday!
HOSTED BY
Donna Thomas
CATEGORIES
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