Soul Sessions: Therapy, Identity, and Real Life as a Black Latina

Grief is one of the most profound and complex emotions we experience, yet it’s often misunderstood or avoided. In this episode of Soul Sessions, I sit down with Kimberly Russell to have an open, honest conversation about navigating loss, healing, and the unexpected ways grief shapes us. We discuss the personal and collective aspects of mourning, the importance of giving ourselves grace in the process, and how we can find strength even in our darkest moments. Whether you’ve experienced loss yourself or want to better support loved ones through their grief, this episode offers insight, compassion, and a reminder that you’re not alone.

Episode 15: Surviving the Impossible – Zach Tidwell’s Path to Healing and PurposeSome stories redefine resilience. In this episode of Soul Sessions, we sit down with Zach Tidwell, a survivor who turned his darkest moments into a mission for healing and purpose. From overcoming unimaginable challenges to finding strength in vulnerability, Zach shares his journey of survival, transformation, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.Join us as we explore the power of perseverance, the importance of mental health, and how even the hardest battles can lead to a life filled with meaning.Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions about suicide and mental health struggles. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for support. You are not alone.Tune in for an inspiring conversation on healing, hope, and the strength of the human spirit.

What if the key to wealth isn’t just in your bank account, but in your well-being? In this episode of Soul Sessions, I sit down with Dr. Darla Bishop to explore how prioritizing your happiness can lead to success—financially, emotionally, and mentally. We dive into the connection between mindset and money, why emotional wealth is just as important as financial wealth, and practical ways to invest in yourself without guilt. If you're ready to redefine what it means to be "rich" and build a life that truly fulfills you, this one's for you!

Heartbreak is a universal experience, but how we heal from it can shape our future relationships, self-worth, and emotional well-being. In this episode of Soul Sessions, I sit down with divorce recovery and relationship coach April Nowlin and dive deep into the process of healing after heartbreak. We explore the emotional toll of love lost, the myths about moving on, and the power of self-love in rebuilding after pain. Whether you're going through a breakup, still healing from past wounds, or supporting someone on their journey, this conversation is full of wisdom, encouragement, and practical tools to help you find peace and clarity. Tune in for an honest, heartfelt discussion on love, loss, and the path to emotional healing.

In this heartfelt episode of Soul Sessions, Jess sits down with Rebecca Essonia Tao and Ashton Young, a loving couple, to discuss how their childhood experiences have influenced their individual journeys and their relationship. Together, they reflect on the impact of family, culture, and identity on their growth and healing, exploring how understanding their roots has shaped the love they share today. This insightful conversation dives into the ways childhood shapes who we are and the paths we take toward self-discovery and connection. Note: This is a longer episode than usual, giving plenty of time for deep and meaningful reflections. Tune in for a thoughtful and inspiring discussion filled with vulnerability, wisdom, and the power of reflection.

In this episode of Soul Sessions, I sit down with Kristin Schmoke, a mother of four, certified trauma-informed parent coach, and teacher. Kristin shares her journey into parent coaching—how she thought she had all the answers until her own child challenged traditional parenting strategies. Through her experience, she discovered the power of healing, self-awareness, and intentional connection in parenting. We dive into the importance of breaking generational cycles, doing the inner work, and shifting from reactive discipline to conscious parenting. Kristin offers insight into how parents can build stronger relationships with their children through compassion and communication. You're a parent or someone reflecting on your own upbringing, this episode is a must-listen!

In this heartfelt episode of Soul Sessions, I sit down with my mom to discuss the powerful concept of self-love. As we reflect on our own experiences, we dive deep into the ways we've learned to embrace ourselves, flaws and all. We share personal stories of how self-love has shaped our lives, especially as Black and Latina women navigating a world that often challenges our worth. From the importance of boundaries to the journey of healing and acceptance, this episode is a reminder of the transformative power of loving yourself. Whether you're still finding your way or are on the path to healing, there’s something here for everyone.

In this transformative episode of Soul Sessions, Jess sits down with a Mexican shaman Perla,  to explore her path to becoming a healer. Together, they discuss the spiritual traditions that shaped her, the challenges of blending ancient practices with modern life, and the profound lessons she’s learned while guiding others through their healing journeys. Discover how ancestral wisdom can help us reconnect with our roots and embrace holistic well-being. This episode offers an inspiring look at the intersection of identity, spirituality, and resilience.  

Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions about suicide and its impact on mental health. Listener discretion is advised. In this episode, I’m diving into the concept of chosen family within the queer Latinx community. When biological families turn their backs, chosen families step up, providing love, connection, and belonging. I interviewed Damian, who shared his journey of navigating rejection and creating affirming spaces of support. Together, we explore the cultural importance of "familia," celebrate resilience, and highlight the healing power of chosen communities.

In this episode, I’m sitting down with my brother to talk about the pressures men face to be invulnerable, strong, and self-reliant—what we’re calling the “Superman Syndrome.” Together, we’ll explore how societal expectations, cultural norms, and mental health stigma affect men, especially Black and Brown men. We’ll share personal stories, challenge toxic masculinity, and discuss why it’s so important to create safe spaces for men to prioritize their mental health.

In this episode of Soul Sessions, I’m diving into the richness and complexity of being Afro-Latina. I’ll share how I embrace my Blackness and Latina heritage, the pride I feel in my identity, and the ways I navigate spaces that often don’t feel made for people like me. This is a celebration of resilience, culture, and self-love as I reflect on the journey of honoring every part of who I am. Join me as I unpack the joys and challenges of being Afro-Latina and explore how this identity shapes me.

In this episode, I reflect on my 2024 journey, sharing personal milestones, professional growth, and the lessons I've learned along the way. From working as a therapist to nearing graduation and celebrating an upcoming birthday, I open up about the highs and lows that shaped her year.Tune in for an inspiring look back at a transformative year and hear my hopes and goals as I prepares to step into 2025.

In this heartfelt episode of Soul Sessions, join me for an intimate conversation with my mom as we explore the intersections of mental health, family, and resilience. From her experiences raising me as a single mother to the challenges she faced in her own life, we delve into how our family has navigated the complexities of mental health and the lessons we've learned along the way. Through this candid exchange, we reflect on the power of family support, cultural influences, and the strength that comes from embracing our stories. Tune in for a raw and meaningful discussion between mother and daughter about overcoming struggles and finding strength in one another.

In this episode of Soul Sessions: Therapy, Identity, and Real Life as a Black Latina, I dive into the complex world of imposter syndrome. As a Black Latina therapist and graduate student, I’ve wrestled with feelings of not being “good enough” in spaces where I often felt unseen or underestimated. Together, we’ll unpack how systemic inequities and societal expectations fuel imposter syndrome, share personal experiences, and discuss strategies to reclaim confidence and self-worth. This conversation is for anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t belong, especially in spaces not designed for us. Let’s talk about how we can own our brilliance and take up space unapologetically.

In this episode, I’m diving into one of the most eye-opening parts of my journey as a Black Latina therapist: how psychology often overlooks or misrepresents the experiences of people like me. I’ll talk about the gaps I’ve encountered in the field, where my identity didn’t quite fit into the traditional frameworks, and how that’s shaped my approach to therapy. Join me as I explore the need for cultural attunement and how our stories deserve to be reflected in the field of psychology.

In this first episode of Soul Sessions, I’m opening up about my journey as a Black Latina therapist. I’ll share a little about who I am, where I come from, and what led me to the field of therapy. You’ll hear about the challenges and triumphs I’ve faced as a student and as a person navigating the complexities of identity. This episode sets the stage for the real talk to come—about therapy, culture, resilience, and everything in between.

This introduction to Soul Sessions sets the stage for a podcast that explores the journey of being a Black Latina therapist. It’s about navigating the complexities of therapy, identity, and real life, while sharing personal stories of resilience, growth, and authenticity.