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 741741 or visit https://www.crisistextline.org

Stay connected with host Corey Dion Lewis:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreydlewis/
https://www.instagram.com/coreydionlewis/
https://www.tiktok.com/@coreydionlewis

Connect with the guest
https://www.instagram.com/sight_lives/
https://www.instagram.com/sightseyephotography/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCw7f8lKeJMxW9mjvhyczTZA

📬 Join the Mental Health Coffee Club newsletter for real conversations, resources, and weekly check-ins: www.healthyproject.co

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
• Community-driven art and youth collaboration
• Navigating the art industry and pricing your work fairly
• How murals can empower young artists and change public spaces

If you care about mental health in the arts, representation in public art, or just want a powerful story on how art can be a voice for the voiceless, you need to watch this.

💬 Join the conversation in the comments:
What kind of representation is missing in your city’s public art?

☕ Enjoyed the episode? Support the show:
buymeacoffee.com/coreydionlewis

Subscribe for more stories blending mental health, culture, and community.

#MentalHealthPodcast #BIPOCArtist #DesMoinesArtScene #FacelessPortraits #PublicMurals #ArtAndRepresentation #CoffeeCantFixEverything

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 family. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, entrepreneur, working parent, or someone striving for personal and professional growth, this conversation will leave you with valuable insights on staying grounded, navigating rejection, and leading with authenticity.

Show Notes:
00:00 - Welcome to Coffee Can’t Fix Everything an introduction to today’s guest
02:20 - The realities of leadership: balancing passion with the unexpected challenges
07:03 - Burnout and work stress: why setting boundaries is key to long-term success
10:37 - Dealing with disappointment and navigating rejection as a leader
15:43 - Parenting and leadership: lessons from raising kids while leading a career
20:28 - The power of faith and mental health in staying resilient through tough times
24:33 - The importance of self-reflection and how to develop a growth mindset
28:05 - Emotional intelligence and staying in control of your emotions in high-pressure moments
32:00 - The power of mentorship, community leadership, and giving back
37:09 - The reality of nonprofit management and work-life balance
40:27 - Final thoughts: How to stay anchored in your values and keep moving forward

Tune in for this real, unfiltered conversation about leadership, mental health, and the everyday struggles that come with trying to make an impact. If you enjoy the episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it!

Support the Podcast & Stay Connected:

• ☕ Love the show? Buy me a coffee! → https://buymeacoffee.com/coreydionlewis
• Follow Coffee Can’t Fix Everything for more real conversations on mental health and leadership
• Learn more about our guest and their work
• Connect with us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

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 health care, and how community support plays a vital role in healing. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating their mental health journey or supporting others through theirs.

Show Notes:
0:00 - Introduction to Season 2 and welcoming Max to the show
1:27 - The host’s personal journey to therapy and confronting the fear of asking for help
3:17 - Max’s experience with therapy and its transformative impact
5:18 - LGBTQ+ mental health advocacy and addressing barriers to care
7:40 - Cultural challenges in accessing mental health support in marginalized communities
10:28 - What authentic allyship looks like in action
15:21 - The power of pronouns and small gestures in creating safe spaces
18:23 - The stark difference in mental health resources between urban and rural areas
20:45 - How leaders and advocates can balance busy lives with seeking help
26:33 - Unlearning toxic masculinity and embracing vulnerability as a strength
28:13 - Building community support to normalize mental health care
32:53 - Max’s advice to those hesitant to ask for help

Mental Health Resources:

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): www.nami.org
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for free, 24/7 crisis support
• Therapy for Black Men: www.therapyforblackmen.org
• The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ Youth): www.thetrevorproject.org
• One Iowa (LGBTQ+ Resources): www.oneiowa.org
• Psychology Today’s Therapist Finder: www.psychologytoday.com

Remember, you are not alone, and help is available. Let’s break the stigma one conversation at a time.

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, even when difficult, can lead to growth and a more fulfilling life.

Chapter Markers:

• 00:00 - Introduction and Welcome
• 01:23 - The Power of Change: Jill's Early Life and Resilience
• 03:29 - Coping with Loss and Health Challenges
• 07:47 - Redefining Identity and Prioritizing Family
• 13:31 - The Importance of Vulnerability and Accountability
• 16:54 - Moving Beyond Comfort: Advice for Those Stuck in Their "Crap"
• 20:28 - Empowering Change and Reclaiming Control
• 24:29 - The Fluidity of Change and Embracing Imperfection
• 28:06 - Advice for the Future Self: Speaking Truth to Power
• 30:51 - Closing Thoughts and Upcoming My City My Health Event

Mental Health Resources: If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please consider reaching out to the following resources:

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
• Mental Health America
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
• Crisis Text Line - Text "HELLO" to 741741
• Therapy for Black Girls

Remember, coffee can't fix everything, but talking about mental health is a great start. Join us for more conversations like this by subscribing to our channel and sharing this episode with someone who might need it. See you next time!

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 hidden struggles many face and learn how to overcome this widespread issue with practical advice, group therapy options, and a deep dive into Caleb’s upcoming book, Be Porn Free.

Don't forget to check the links at the end of the video for mental health services and resources.

Chapters:

0:00 - Introduction to Coffee Can't Fix Everything
1:08 - The Taboo Topic: Why Pornography is Hard to Discuss
2:48 - Mental Health Impacts of Pornography
5:44 - The Spiritual Battle Behind Pornography Addiction
8:20 - Writing "Be Porn Free": Caleb's Journey and Discoveries
11:42 - The Importance of Group Therapy and Online Courses
14:21 - Breaking the Habit: Steps to Recovery
17:02 - The Enemy We All Face: Spiritual Perspectives
18:27 - The Effects of Pornography on Relationships and Families
19:50 - Desensitization and Escalation in Porn Consumption
21:27 - How Long Does it Take to Be Porn Free?
22:55 - Pre-Order Details for "Be Porn Free"
23:45 - Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

Mental Health Resources:

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) - Website
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): For support and education on mental health issues. Website
• SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) - Free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information service for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders. Website
• Psychology Today Therapist Finder: A comprehensive directory to find mental health professionals in your area. Website
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for free, 24/7 crisis counseling via text.
• Headspace: A mindfulness and meditation app for mental health management. Website
• BetterHelp: Online therapy services connecting individuals with licensed therapists. Website

These resources can provide support, guidance, and therapy options if you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges.

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 children's questions on her writing. She also gets into her professional mission of creating meaningful work environments and the importance of flow in achieving workplace happiness.

About the Guest:

Dr. Erlin Kakkanad’s experiences have shaped her into a problem-solver. In 2022, she debuted as a children's book author and is now the author of two award-winning bestsellers, "Happy in Your Skin" and "I Love Curry and I’m Not Sorry.” Her inspiration to publish these books came from the realization that there was a lack of children's literature catering to Asian Indian children’s curiosity about their cultural backgrounds.

Dr. Kakkanad is an international speaker and positive psychology enthusiast. She holds a BS in Computer Engineering and Application, a double Master’s in Human Resources and Total Quality Management - The Deming Way®, and a Doctorate in Philosophy and Education from Drake University, where her dissertation made significant contributions to the field of meaningful work. She is the Director of Operations Excellence at Principal Financial Group and serves as the Human Rights Commissioner for West Des Moines, Board Director for the American Red Cross - Central Iowa Chapter, and Board of Advisory Trustees for the Jacobson Institute at Grand View University.

Chapter Markers:

0:00 - Introduction 1:04 - Cultural Identity and Its Complexities 2:17 - The Moment of Realization: Helping My Son Understand 5:07 - Writing Children's Books: "Happy in Your Skin" and "I Love Curry and I'm Not Sorry" 8:36 - Navigating Cultural Curiosities 10:28 - Explaining Childhood Experiences to My Kids 13:37 - Defining Happiness and the Concept of "Happier" 17:45 - Faith, Friends, Family: The Pillars of Happiness 20:28 - Solitude and Community: Finding Balance 23:04 - Achieving Flow in Work 27:07 - Recharging: Family, Reading, and Travel 32:23 - Digital Detox: Finding Peace Away from Screens 36:55 - Maintaining Focus and Reducing Anxiety at Work 39:11 - Ending on a Positive Note: Tips for Presentations and Workdays 40:07 - Connecting with Dr. Erlin Kakkanad

Mental Health Resources:

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please reach out for support:

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
• SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
• NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

Remember, coffee can't fix everything, but having these important conversations is a step in the right direction. Let's talk one coffee cup at a time. See you next time!