In this episode, I’m joined by Emili Johnson, creator of the Black Girl Iowa podcast. Emili shares how starting a podcast became a powerful act of self-love and resistance. We talk about finding your voice when you’ve spent years feeling invisible, navigating mental health as a Black woman in Iowa, and the unexpected burnout that comes with podcasting solo. Emili opens up about her journey with anxiety, depression, and PMDD—and how therapy, journaling, and storytelling helped her reclaim her pea...
May 21, 2025•46 min•Ep. 19
Steven Lewis joins the show to talk pressure, identity, and mental health as a creative. From routines to social media stress, we unpack how to stay grounded while building your brand. Mental Health Resources: Therapy for Black Men: https://therapyforblackmen.org NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness): https://nami.org Mental Health America: https://mhanational.org The Steve Fund (Supporting the mental health of young people of color): https://www.stevefund.org Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to...
Apr 30, 2025•38 min•Ep. 18
What does inclusive public art look like when it comes from lived experience? In this episode of Coffee Can’t Fix Everything , I sit down with Marissa Hernandez —a artist from the Des Moines art scene —to talk about mental health , faceless portraits , and how her murals bring representation and healing to public spaces across Iowa. Topics we cover: Art and identity in the Iowa art community Mental health and creativity as a BIPOC artist Why faceless portraits create deeper emotional connection ...
Apr 24, 2025•25 min•Ep. 17
In this episode of Coffee Can’t Fix Everything , we sit down for a raw and insightful conversation on the realities of leadership, parenting, and personal growth. We dive into the mental health challenges that come with leading in both professional and personal spaces, the impact of burnout, and how to develop emotional resilience in the face of setbacks. Our guest shares their journey through leadership challenges, self-doubt, and the lessons they've learned about balancing work, faith, and fam...
Mar 05, 2025•40 min•Ep. 16
In this episode of Coffee Can’t Fix Everything , I sit down with Courageous Fire, a survivor, advocate, and author of The Other Child . We unpack the complicated relationship between forgiveness and healing—why they aren’t always the same and why choosing self-compassion over forced forgiveness can be the key to true healing. Courageous shares her journey of surviving domestic violence, breaking free from toxic relationships, and redefining what healing looks like on her terms. We discuss how ch...
Feb 13, 2025•34 min•Ep. 15
In this heartfelt episode of Coffee Can't Fix Everything , we sit down with Max to have an open conversation about mental health, the challenges of asking for help, and the barriers many face in seeking therapy. From breaking the stigma around mental health in the LGBTQ+ and Black communities to discussing communal burnout, Max shares their insights as a mental health advocate, executive director, and gender doula. We explore why seeking help can feel so difficult, the impact of inclusive mental...
Jan 13, 2025•38 min•Ep. 14
In this Coffee Can't Fix Everything episode , Corey sits down with Jill, who shares her transformative journey of becoming "Jill 2.0." From dealing with the unexpected loss of her father to navigating a rare kidney disease, Jill opens up about the challenges and changes she faced in her life. Together, they discuss the power of resilience, the importance of prioritizing family, and the courage it takes to redefine oneself in the face of adversity. Jill offers insights into how embracing change, ...
Aug 26, 2024•31 min•Ep. 13
In this powerful episode of Coffee Can't Fix Everything , Corey Lewis sits down with licensed mental health therapist Caleb Thomas to tackle a topic many shy away from—pornography addiction. This candid conversation explores the psychological, physiological, and spiritual impacts of pornography, shedding light on why it's more than just a personal vice. Caleb shares his journey from recognizing the problem in his clients to becoming a certified sex and porn addiction recovery coach. Discover the...
Aug 05, 2024•25 min•Ep. 12
In this enlightening episode of Coffee Can't Fix Everything, host Corey Dion Lewis sits down with the inspiring Dr. Erlin Kakkanad to discuss the complexities of cultural identity, the science of happiness, and how to navigate the pressures of fitting in while staying true to oneself. Dr. Erlin Kakkanad, an award-winning children's book author and positive psychology enthusiast, shares her journey from India to the U.S., the challenges of maintaining cultural identity, and the impact of her chil...
Jun 24, 2024•41 min•Ep. 11
Join Corey Dion Lewis on "Coffee Can't Fix Everything" as he engages in a profound conversation with mental health advocate Kayla Bell-Consolver. In this episode, they delve into the significance of community healing, the impact of ancestral practices, and the challenges of navigating mental wellness in various communities. Kayla shares her journey, offering valuable insights on building and sustaining supportive environments both online and offline. Don't miss this enlightening discussion that ...
Jun 11, 2024•32 min•Ep. 10
In this episode of Coffee Can't Fix Everything, host Corey Dion Lewis sits down with Leah Lint to discuss the intricacies of maintaining mental health in the workplace. Leah shares her personal journey, the importance of supportive leadership, and how therapy played a crucial role in her mental wellness. From finding the right therapist to balancing personal and professional life, this conversation provides valuable insights for anyone navigating mental health challenges. Tune in for a candid an...
Jun 04, 2024•25 min•Ep. 9
In this episode of Coffee Can't Fix Everything, host Corey Dion Lewis sits down with Bridget Cravens-Neely, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa. They talk about the profound mental health benefits of mentorship, exploring how these relationships foster emotional growth and support for both mentors and mentees. Bridget shares her personal and professional insights, emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness. What You'll Learn: The reciprocal benefits of mentorship on mental...
May 13, 2024•44 min•Ep. 8
In this inspiring episode of "The Coffee Can't Fix Everything Podcast," I sit down with Dr. Pat Ford, a physical therapist with a remarkable story of resilience, recovery, and rediscovery. At the young age of 30, Pat experienced a life-altering stroke during a CrossFit workout, an event that not only challenged his physical capabilities but also his mental fortitude and identity. From navigating the complexities of rehabilitation to confronting the mental struggles of adapting to a new normal, P...
Apr 08, 2024•36 min•Ep. 7
In this enlightening episode of Coffee Can't Fix Everything, we're joined by the remarkable Breanne Ward, a founder therapist and a beacon of wisdom in the mental health community. We talk about the complexities of supporting friends and loved ones through mental health challenges, the importance of setting boundaries, and the power of vulnerability within the African American community. Breanne illuminates the conversation with her AAA policy – Acknowledge, be Aware, and be Accessible, providin...
Apr 08, 2024•41 min•Ep. 6
In this deeply inspiring episode of "Coffee Can't Fix Everything," we sit down with the remarkable Austin Neal, who shares his transformative journey from an aspiring baseball player to a devoted servant of youth in need. Battling his own identity crisis after a life-altering diagnosis, Austin found solace and purpose in serving others. Through his work with the youth recovery program at Lutheran Church of Hope and his experiences with Joppa and the Boys and Girls Club, Austin sheds light on the...
Mar 18, 2024•36 min•Ep. 5
Dive into the heart of authenticity and stress management with Marcela on Coffee Can't Fix Everything. This episode explores how to navigate life's pressures while staying true to oneself, the importance of mental health awareness, and the art of achieving work-life balance. Marcela shares insights from her journey as an HR professional, business owner, and mother, offering valuable lessons on handling stress, embracing authenticity, and the power of strategic 'no's. Show Notes: Introduction to ...
Mar 13, 2024•32 min•Ep. 4
Join Corey Dion Lewis on the "Coffee Can't Fix Everything Podcast" for a compelling conversation with Dwana Bradley, a beacon of hope and inspiration. In this episode, Dwana opens up about her transformative journey from a life dominated by fear to one of remarkable freedom and strength. Through her deep faith and commitment to community empowerment, Dwana shares how she overcame her anxieties to become a powerful voice in media and advocacy. Show Notes: Introduction to Dwana Bradley : Des Moine...
Feb 26, 2024•39 min•Ep. 3
In this profound episode of Coffee Can't Fix Everything we speak with Therapist and mental health content creator Kayla Bell-Consolver. Kayla opens up about her journey of self-discovery, the challenges of being a young black LGBTQ leader, and the importance of mental health and inner healing. From confronting lesbianophobia to embracing her true self, Kayla's narrative is a powerful testimony to courage, resilience, and the transformative power of therapy. Join us as we explore the complexities...
Nov 27, 2023•28 min•Ep. 2
In this empowering first episode of "Coffee Can't Fix Everything," we delve deep into the rarely discussed terrains of mental health, emotional vulnerability, and societal expectations within the Black community. Our hosts engage in a candid conversation about the complexities of being a Black man in modern society, touching on topics like mental health stigma, the pressure to conform to traditional masculinity, and the journey toward emotional honesty and vulnerability. This episode offers a sa...
Nov 20, 2023•39 min•Ep. 1
