Hello everyone! I know I’ve been quiet for a while, but I’ve been busy working behind the scenes on some very important groundwork for Restore Black. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m thrilled to announce that I’m ready to launch my podcast series, ‘Restore Black Presents: Soul Gold Podcast!’
Since the inception of Restore Black, my vision has always been to create impactful spaces for mental wellbeing within the Black community. I envisioned hosting live therapy events with high-profile guests, to help destigmatise and normalise seeking therapy; starting Gloucester’s first Black therapy group, and, of course, launching a podcast. I am excited to see all three of these initiatives has come to fruition!
Over the past few months, I've been diligently crafting funding applications and producing these insightful episodes that explore vital topics related to mental health and community resilience. You can find Soul Gold Podcast on my YouTube channel, and I invite you to like and subscribe! Your support will not only help raise awareness but also provide essential funding to allow us to do more in the Black community to address mental wellbeing.
The first three podcasts focus on the critical topic of birth trauma in the Black community. In the first podcast, I engage in conversation with Elliot Rae, a black father who, along with his wife, experienced the traumatic birth of his first child and almost losing his wife in childbirth. As a result, Elliot was diagnosed with PTSD one year later. Elliot’s experience, ignited his passion for social change. Now, as an author and advocate, he shares his insights on supporting fathers, improving men’s mental health, and fostering conversations around gender equality.
In the second podcast, I sit down with Divina Johnson, a black mother who faced birth trauma and racism during her labour experiences, including unkind treatment from a midwife. She shares her powerful story of resilience, highlighting how these challenges fuel her passion for helping others connect with their inner wisdom and fostering freedom, ultimately leading her to become a dedicated birth doula.
In the third podcast, I explore the transformative journey of Juan Irby, an African American black male doula who turned his personal experience with postpartum depression into a passionate commitment to support other fathers. He shares his story of navigating the challenges of fatherhood, breaking societal norms, and empowering families through his unique perspective as both a father and a doula.
This project has not been a solo endeavour, and so, a heartfelt thank you goes to those who have helped me. In addition, my heartfelt gratitude to our funders, Barnwood Trust and Gloucestershire Community Foundation. Their support has been invaluable and makes these initiatives possible.
With all that said, I can’t wait for you to join me on this exciting journey with ‘Restore Black Presents: Soul Gold Podcast!’
