Charlotte Community Connections

She says she was having the hardest season of her life. As a result, she had a nervous breakdown. Or as the National Institute of Mental Health describes it, she experienced a mental health challenge. Her name is Brandi Williams. Brandi’ did seek therapy after her nervous breakdown, but what happened in between the sessions, or when girlfriends weren’t available to fill the gap. She created Soul Sanctuary – a guided tool, similar to AI, that helps one to reflect. She is the Owner of SoulMed Holistic Health Collaborative. And her goal is to change the trajectory of health outcomes in the Black community.  Guests:Brandi Williams - Owner, SoulMed Holistic Health Collaborative, Creator of Soul SanctuaryKristin Bly – Founder & Clinical Director, Daybreak CounselingSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We are talking about turning unimaginable losses into a mission for change. In 2004, eight-year-old Roddie Jr. lost his life in a violent dog attack — a tragedy that no parent should ever have to endure. Out of that heartbreak, his mother, Tameaka Brown, founded Roddie Jr.’s Watchdog Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to preventing similar tragedies and promoting safer relationships between communities, families, and animals. In this episode, I'm speaking with Tameaka Brown, the foundation’s founder, along with staff from Mecklenburg County Animal Care and Control, and a veterinarian, to explore how education, responsible ownership, and community awareness can save lives — and ensure that no other child shares Roddie Jr.’s fate. GUESTS - Tameaka Brown – CEO/Founder of Roddie Jr’s Watchdog Foundation.  Katie Caffray  - Lead animal control officer, Charlotte Mecklenburg Animal Control Veterinarian Dr. Willie Taylor, Jr. - Founder of The Maggie T Foundation  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

November is National Caregivers Month — a time to recognize and celebrate the millions of people who quietly show up every day to care for loved ones. In fact, there are an estimated 63 million caregivers in the U.S., including both paid and unpaid caregivers, who provide care for people with chronic, disabling, or serious health conditions.  Caregiving can be rewarding, but it’s also demanding, emotional, and often unseen. Today, we’re giving caregivers the spotlight. We’re talking about their journeys, their challenges, their resilience, and the support they deserve.  Guests:  Courtenay O’Donoghue, Memory Care Ministry - Atrium Health, Union Venitra White-Dean, Founder/Executive Director – Frankie Mae Foundation See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Over the past few months, we have explored several health topics that matter to you — from wellness tips, preventive care to stories of hope, healing, and community impact. Today, we dig a little deeper into a nonprofit organization that believes everyone deserves access to quality, compassionate healthcare — no matter who they are or where they come from. Meet RAO Community Health – whose mission is to educate, advocate, and support diverse and underserved populations, including the LGBTQ+ community, through compassionate and quality care. Guests:Dr. A. Bernard Davis, President/CEO RAO Community Health Jameela Thompson, Prep Coordinator & Linkage & Care John Gray, Early Intervention Coordinator   See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There’s a new initiative in Mecklenburg County designed to get you MOVING. And to keep you healthy. It’s called MECK MOVES, a 16-week countywide fitness challenge. Because while we EAT, we don’t always exercise. And any trainer or someone in the health care industry will tell you, MOVEMENT is essential. In fact, it’s lifesaving. We hear about the benefits all the time. Physical activity can: make your bones and muscles stronger, healthier heart, help keep the pounds off, reduce your risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers. And it can even help you sleep better & enhance brain function. The goal ultimately is to keep you ALIVE & THRIVING. Let’s learn more about MECK MOVES initiative with these two ladies who are excited to get you MOVING.GUESTS:  Gwendolyn Devins, Community Engagement Mngr in the office of Health Equity for Mecklenburg Public HealthDr. Kimberly Scott, Assistant Health Director of the Population Health Division for the Mecklenburg County Public Health Department Michelle Boyd, also known as 'Fit Mom'INFORMATION -Meck Check - Meck Moves Fitness ChallengeOctober 11, 8am - 5pm at McCrorey YMCA, 3801 Beatties Ford Road Register online or call (980) 314-9675.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Here are some facts about breast cancer in our country. We know that breast cancer is the 2nd leading cause of death among women in the U.S. 1 out of every 8 women will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime The good news? While the numbers of breast cancer cases continue to rise, especially in young women, treatment has improved.There is now a nearly 100% survival rate for early-stage cancer What might be different or unusual is how this particular organization raises funds to support those dealing with breast cancer treatment. They are a nonprofit organization called Go Jen Go. Based in Charlotte, they provide critical support to families in the area who face the financial burden of a breast cancer diagnosis. Their assistance program, for example, covers household expenses like housing, utilities, and transportation, and even groceries. Another fact – dozens of nonprofit organizations raise hundreds of thousands of dollars to assist those who are battling breast cancer. However, one organization in the Queen City uniquely raises funds by wearing formerly worn wedding gowns. They are the Charlotte-based nonprofit Go Jen Go Foundation. Established in 2009, the Foundation has raked in over 2 million dollars to assist breast cancer patients and their families with everything from housing, transportation, to groceries. GuestsSusan Evren - Executive Director, Go Jen Go Foundation Shawna Dye Culik - COO at Dye Culik, business law firm & + Event Chair for My Breast Friend's Wedding Sandy Ann Cannupp - Mom to Lily, Wife, Breast Cancer Thriver, Go Jen Go Grantee InformationMy Breastfriend's WeddingThursday, October 23, 5-9pmHyatt Centric, 3100 Apex Drive, CharlotteLearn more at www.mybreastfriendswedding.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mental health is so often framed as a personal battle, but what if we explored mental health as a collective journey, where healing happens not just in clinics, but in living rooms, libraries, coffee shops, and community spaces? That’s the heart of the work one Charlotte nonprofit does – Youth Villages. Their mission is simple – help children and families live successfully. Youth Villages supports young people who are facing mental and behavioral health challenges. They believe that children are raised best by their families. And when families are equipped with the right tools and support, real, lasting healing can happen. Their ultimate goal? To ensure children can avoid entering foster care or the juvenile system. Youth Villages is changing lives and saving families. Today, we’re learning more about how they are doing it.   Guests:  Ashley Herndon, Clinical Service Manager – Youth Villages Jessica Silk, Licensed Clinical Social Worker - Youth VillagesRenee Russell, Youth Villages Parent See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There are some hot-button issues in our country right now that have led to a segment of the population feeling increasingly fearful while living in fear. Another population has been growing at a rapid rate, but is now challenged with receiving adequate healthcare and safety. We are talking about immigration and the elderly – two vulnerable populations. And digging a little deeper into the legal ramifications associated with each.   First up – immigration. The latest study from the Pew Research Center found that the number of immigrants living in the United States has dropped significantly since January of this year. Because of new policies in place, more than a million immigrants have left the country or have been deported.  It’s the first decline since the 60’s.   Meanwhile, the elderly – those over age 65 – is growing at a rapid rate in our country. The U.S. Census Bureau indicates that the age group in the country will increase from 56.1 million today to over 82 million by 2050. People are living longer and require more care. But many don’t have a plan for aging parents. How do we prepare for that?   Guests -  Larissa Manon Mervin, Chief Executive Officer, Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy  Soreé Finley, Director of the Legal Services for the Elderly program and the NC Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic Sabrina Gamero, Staff Attorney-Immigrant Justice Program See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

America – it’s been called the land of the free, but also the land of the aging. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the nation’s population of people over age 65 is expected to rise dramatically...from 56.1 million in 2020 to 82.1 million by 2050. That’s in another 25 years for those of you doing math.  Today, Americans are living longer, and birth rates are declining – both trends are putting a strain on healthcare systems, social services, and government programs like Medicare and Social Security. All of these factors have led to challenges in caring for the elderly, including affordability, and have ultimately forced us to rethink how we support the aging.  The guests today know this all too well.  Michelle Allgood, Executive Director - Gracious Living Adult Day & Health Care Center  JC Haynes, caregiver of his motherSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Charlotte is about to host one of the largest and most vibrant festivals in the Southeast. Charlotte Pride Festival and Parade get underway August 16 and 17 in uptown Charlotte. It is celebrating 25 years!! With some 240,000 expected in the city. Organizers tout this is ‘more than just a festival.’ Charlotte Pride serves the community, so it’s a weekend of celebration, inclusion and empowerment. During today’s interview, you’ll learn that Charlotte Pride is much more than a weekend event – it’s not just drag, parties and dancing, but there is partying with purpose.   It’s diversity, inclusion, economic impact and community to name a few. While the mission of Charlotte Pride is to enrich, empower and strengthen the lives of LGBTQ people, it doesn’t come without it’s challenges. We’ll delve into some of those, too and how they continue to combat those.  GUESTS:    Meredith Thompson, Managing Director   Caroline Bedenbaugh, Communications Coordinator   INFORMATION: CharlottePride.orgSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Here’s something you don’t hear a lot about – Men TALKING. But, they do – depending upon the setting. For example, according to Psychology Today and Inside Higher Ed., one study found that men spoke 1.6 times more often than women in college classrooms. And another study in mixed-gender groups found men were talking 70% of the time.   However, studies show that men talking to other men in small groups has a significant positive impact. Some of the benefits: reducing anger, positive effects on mental health, increases the likelihood of seeking support, reduces isolation, enhances coping skills, and increases the willingness to share.  Well, that is happening right here in Charlotte! It’s called Men To Men Mondays...it's a monthly event where men from all walks of life are invited to get together to talk, have honest dialogue and support each other. It's supported by the faith-based organization “Through Faith We Remain Blessed, Inc.” GUESTS: Jason Coston,  Founder - Through Faith We Remain Blessed, Inc.  Dontae Henderson, Member --- Information: The next 'Men To Men' Talk is Monday, August 4, 6:30 pm (First Monday), 1337Samuel Street, Charlotte, NC See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

July is Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. Why MINORITY Mental Health Awareness Month?? It’s specifically dedicated to raising awareness about the unique mental health challenges faced by minorities. There are certain minority groups that face specific challenges. For example:  The highest suicide rates in the U.S. are in the Native American communities  Latino youth are MORE LIKELY to attempt suicide  Asian Americans are LEAST LIKELY to seek mental health services  LGBTQIA+ individuals experience SIGNIFICANTLY HIGHER RATES of mental health conditions & suicide attempts than their heterosexual peers.  The goal is to destigmatize mental illness and improve access to mental health services for these communities. The BEAM organization seeks to do that. They are The Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective. It is a national 501 c3 organization that trains, funds, holds healing space, and provides resources made up of an international network of therapists, wellness practitioners, and others to support the well-being and mental health of our most marginalized communities. Guests: Yolo Akili Robinson, Executive Director Natalie Robinson, Director of Trainings & Programs BEAMSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This is the 2nd part of our Two-part series on Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. In Part 1, we focused on the caregivers of the more than 7 million people who have Alzheimer’s in our country. This episode will focus on taking charge of your brain health. So let’s talk about what we do know about Alzheimer’s and just what it means to take charge of your brain health. With me today is a man who knows all about it. Meet Dr. Robert Wiggins, neurologist, director of movement disorders, Novant Neurology (also a board member of the Alzheimer’s Association – Western Carolina Chapter) GUEST -  Dr. Robert Wiggins - Neurologist, Director of Movement Disorders, Novant NeurologySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This is the first portion of a two-part series on Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month. It was about a year ago that I tackled this topic, specifically Alzheimer's Disease. And at that time, the Alzheimer’s Association – which is the largest nonprofit funder of Alzheimer's research – said there were an estimated 6.9 million Americans age 65 and older living with Alzheimer’s dementia –  TODAY - for the first time, the number of people living with Alzheimer’s disease is estimated that 7.2 million.  Here are some other interesting facts - Last year, more than, 210,000 Alzheimer’s patients were in NC. TODAY, 210,500 people aged 65 and older in NC are living with Alzheimer’s.  What does this mean in terms of costs? The Alzheimer’s Association estimates the total cost of care for someone with dementia is more than $400,000 ($405,262). And who is paying for it? The family.  Last year in NC, dementia caregivers provided 739 million hours of unpaid care, and that’s valued at $13 billion.    These numbers are attached to REAL people – both the dementia patient and the CAREGIVER. While there is still no cure for this disease and research continues, so does the EVERYDAY effort to support those living with Alzheimer’s dementia. On this episode, I talked with two of them learning to navigate their new reality. GUESTS: Jeff and Penny Lambert. Jeff was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, and wife is taking care of him. Kara Harrington, Sr. Director, Marketing & Communications – Alzheimer's Association   INFORMATION: Alzheimer's AssociationSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

May was ALS Awareness Month. What do you know about ALS or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. It''s also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease -- named after the famous New York Yankees baseball player who had ALS. It’s a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord responsible for voluntary movement. As these nerve cells die, individuals experience progressive muscle weakness and paralysis, eventually leading to the inability to move, speak, swallow, or breathe.   Some 35,000 Americans suffer from ALS. It is uncommon and not well understood. But Tammy Hall is doing her part to try and change that. She started a nonprofit, Beacon of Hope ALS Foundation, after learning her husband, Louis, had ALS. It was a tough journey, but she's open to helping others learn how to cope and thrive. Guests: Tammy Wall, Executive Director Beacon of Hope ALS Foundation  Louis Wall, ALS ThriverSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

May is Small Business Month. There are over 12 million businesses; they generate trillions in revenue and employ millions of people. Who am I describing specifically? Not just small businesses, but Women-owned businesses that make a significant contribution to the US economy.  And they are not just growing in number but increasing their economic impact.   Women-owned businesses are growing at a faster rate and performing at a faster rate than men-owned businesses. But, yet access to capital resources remains a challenge.  Overall – the news is good! Women in business are resilient, they are creative, they serve purpose, and they have passion. We’re meeting two of these women business owners today...  GUESTS:    Molly Grantham – 4X Emmy winner, 3X author, National Speaker, Creator of Bet On Yourself Summit (and movement).   Alisha DeBerry - Leading Broker-In-Charge & Managing Member, Platinum Group Realty See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. It was started in 1949 by Mental Health America and is designed to highlight the importance of mental well-being, educate the public, reduce stigma, and promote support for those affected by mental health conditions. There are so many negative attitudes and misconceptions about mental health. The month of May is a time to encourage open conversation about mental illness.  What do we know about it? Having a mental illness IS NOT a DEATH SENTENCE. There IS recovery for mental illness. We are talking about that today. GUESTS:    Najah Dail, EdD, LCMHC, LPC, Chief Clinical Officer, Hopeway  Megan, a former Hopeway client  HopeWaySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There is beauty in giving birth to a child. Some say it's a feeling they often cannot explain – an overwhelming sense of joy and an automatic love some say they have never experienced. But those pleasantries are not always the case for every mother. Some moms also experience these feelings and changes, too -- physical and hormonal, emotional and psychological changes. It’s known as ‘Postpartum’ and in some cultures referred to as ‘baby blues’ -- this typically happens after childbirth, lasting for the first six weeks after delivery.   But there is relief for mothers who experience postpartum. Ziva Postpartum Retreat is North Carolina’s FIRST full-service, overnight postpartum retreat. It was founded by two African-American women, Selena Williams and Lauren Hall, who say Ziva is a sanctuary to support and empower new moms. Guests: Selena Williams - Co-Founder, Ziva Postpartum Retreat Dr. Cynthia "Dr. Cyn" Wesley - Board-certified OBGYN, creator of 'Beauty Below' - a product line and resource for intimate wellness and beauty for dark skin  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode by Guest Host Ms. Jessica "The Girl Next Door" @heymsjessica In October 1923, brothers Walt Disney and Roy O. Disney’s dream came true as The Walt Disney Company was in founded in Los Angeles, CA.  Over 100 years later, Disney is still encouraging dreamers with a life changing program.  In 2008, The Disney Dreamers Academy was created to inspire and empower high school students across the nation.  100 high school students between the ages of 13-19 are selected each year to participate in this mentoring program which offers workshops, career guidance, networking and mentorship from industry leaders and Disney professionals.  Dreamers leave the academy motivated, excited, and hopeful about their future goals and aspirations. In addition to the 4-day academy, Dreamers receive an all-expenses paid trip to Walt Disney Word which includes accommodations at a Walt Disney World Resort, tickets to the theme parks, and a VIP experience like no other.  This year, Charlotte was represented at the Disney Dreamers Academy by Sonia Godwani.  Sonia is a 15-year-old, sophomore at Phillip O. Berry Academy of Technology.  She is a scholar that has a love for math, medicine, and technology.  She is the president of HOSA and Key Club, and treasurer of a math club which she co-founded. Outside of school, Sonia is a entrepreneur with her own nail business.  She is also a self-taught dancer skilled in various styles of dance.  In her free time, she enjoys design, animations and coding video games.  Sonia’s dream is to combine her passions for math, engineering, and helping others, pursuing a career that makes a difference. I had a chance to chat with Sonia after her experience at the Disney Dreamer’s Academy.  Check out this inspiring conversation.   See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Recent numbers indicate Charlotte is one of the fastest-growing large cities in the country. According to the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance, Charlotte grew by 15,600 people in ONE year. In the next 25 years, its population is projected to increase by more than half to reach 4.6 million.   Why does this matter? It would appear that the number of people coming to the city is outgrowing it. People will need to get around. So, besides housing, transportation is a hot-button issue for Charlotte. Infrastructure, or lack thereof, will be key. Of course, where there is a need, there is a price tag. On the table, Senate Bill 145. Several lawmakers are behind this. The Bill would allow Mecklenburg commissioners to place a referendum on the ballot asking voters to raise sales taxes by 1 percentage point. That money would help pay for a $25 billion transportation plan that would cover building new rail lines, adding bus routes, and expanding roads and sidewalks.  GUESTS: Chair of the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners, Mark Jerrell   Colette Forrest, Founder - Charlotte Black Voter Project   Robert Dawkins, a longtime community activist and is with Action NCSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.