Unpacking Me

Healing The Mother Wound: She Did the Best She Could… And It Still Hurt

Thu, 14 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What happens when you can hold compassion for your mother… and still feel deeply hurt by her?

In this episode, we explore the complexity of the mother wound—a deeply layered emotional experience that many people carry but rarely talk about openly. You can understand that she did the best she could with what she had, and still acknowledge the impact her limitations had on your nervous system, your sense of self, and your relationships.

This conversation moves beyond blame and into truth. We unpack what it means to grieve the mother you needed but didn’t fully receive, how unmet emotional needs show up in adulthood, and why healing isn’t about choosing between empathy and accountability—you get to hold both.

This episode is for anyone navigating complicated feelings toward their mother—love, grief, anger, longing—and trying to make sense of it all without minimizing their own pain.

You are allowed to honor her story… without abandoning your own.

Book Mentioned:
The Will To Change: Men, Masculinity, and Love by Bell Hooks

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

If today's episode resonated with you, consider taking a moment to subscribe, rate, and share your thoughts with a review on your preferred podcast platform. Your feedback is an essential part of our journey, and we appreciate the support!

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Mothering While Broken: WHat Nobody Tells Black Moms About Trauma and Parenting

Thu, 07 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What does it mean to show up as a mother when you’re still carrying unhealed parts of yourself?

In this episode, we have an honest and necessary conversation about Black motherhood, trauma, and the emotional weight many Black mothers carry while raising children. So often, Black moms are expected to be strong, self-sacrificing, and resilient—while navigating their own unresolved pain, generational trauma, and lack of support.

We explore what it looks like to parent while triggered, overwhelmed, or emotionally exhausted, and the guilt that can come with knowing you want to do better while still struggling within yourself. This episode creates space for the truth: you can deeply love your children and still feel broken, stretched thin, or unsure of how to heal while parenting.

This episode is for Black mothers and marginalized mothers who feel like they have to hold everything together, even when they’re falling apart inside. It’s also for anyone seeking to better understand the intersection of trauma, mental health, and parenting within Black motherhood.

You are allowed to be a loving mother… and still need healing.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Who Taught You to Hold Everything In? (And Why It Still Hurts)

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Why do so many of us learn to hide our emotions, push things down, and carry everything alone?

In this episode, we explore emotional suppression—how it develops, why it feels like survival, and the long-term impact it has on your mental health, relationships, and sense of self. When expressing emotions didn’t feel safe, welcomed, or supported, many of us learned to stay quiet, be “strong,” and handle everything internally.

We unpack how suppressing emotions can show up in adulthood as anxiety, emotional numbness, irritability, burnout, and difficulty asking for help. You’ll also begin to understand why your body may still be holding onto emotions you were never given space to process—and how that can affect your nervous system over time.

This episode is for anyone who feels like they’ve had to be “the strong one,” struggles to express how they feel, or doesn’t even know what they’re feeling anymore.

You don’t have to keep holding everything in.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Why Your Mind Wont Shut Off At Night

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400

The Real Reason You Overthink at Night

You’re exhausted, your body is ready for sleep… but your mind won’t stop racing. In this episode, we unpack why your thoughts get louder at night, especially for those navigating anxiety, trauma, and emotional overwhelm. We explore how the nervous system, unprocessed emotions, and daily suppression show up when everything gets quiet. You’ll also learn practical ways to calm your mind, regulate your body, and create a nighttime routine that supports rest instead of overthinking. If your nights feel like a mental loop you can’t escape, this episode will help you understand why—and what you can do about it.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

What Really Happens During a Panic Attack (And How to Stop It)

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Panic attacks can feel terrifying, overwhelming, and completely out of control. In this episode, we break down what is actually happening in your body and nervous system during a panic attack and why it can feel like you're losing control. We explore the science behind panic, the role of the fight-or-flight response, and practical ways to ground yourself when panic starts to rise. If you’ve ever wondered why panic attacks happen or how to manage them in the moment, this episode offers insight, understanding, and tools to help you regain a sense of safety in your body.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

How to Choose the Right Therapist (And the Mistakes to Avoid)

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0500

The Biggest Mistakes People Make When Choosing a Therapist

Choosing a therapist can feel overwhelming, especially when you don’t know what to look for. In this episode, we unpack the biggest mistakes people make when choosing a therapist and why the right therapeutic fit matters for healing. From ignoring specialization to overlooking personal connection and boundaries, we talk about the common pitfalls that can make therapy feel ineffective or frustrating. This conversation will help you understand what to look for in a therapist, what questions to ask, and how to advocate for yourself in the therapy process so you can find support that truly helps you grow.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

I Think I’m Going Crazy

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0500

Being Triggered, Healing, and Feeling Emotions for the First Time
Unpacking Me: The Parts of Trauma No One Talks About

Healing can feel terrifying when your nervous system finally starts to wake up. In this episode, we talk about that overwhelming moment when emotions surface after years of survival mode — and you start wondering if you’re losing your mind. We unpack what it really means to be triggered during healing, why feeling everything at once is actually a sign of progress, and how trauma keeps emotions stored in the body until it finally feels safe enough to release them. This is an honest conversation about emotional flooding, nervous system responses, and learning how to sit with feelings you were never allowed to have before.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

The Day I Grew Up In Therapy

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0500

There are moments in healing when something clicks — when you realize you’re no longer surviving, you’re choosing yourself. In this episode, we explore what it means to “grow up” in therapy: taking responsibility for your healing, recognizing patterns, and learning how to show up for yourself in ways no one ever taught you. We talk about the discomfort of self-awareness, the grief that comes with outgrowing old versions of yourself, and the quiet power of deciding that your healing matters. This is an honest reflection on accountability, emotional maturity, and the courage it takes to change.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Black Sheep Energy: Choosing Yourself, Setting Boundaries

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0500

Unpacking Me: The Parts of Trauma No One Talks About

What happens when you stop living for everyone else — and finally start choosing yourself? In this episode, we unpack what it really means to become the “black sheep” of the family. We explore how setting boundaries can trigger anger, guilt, and resistance, why healing often exposes long-standing family dysfunction, and how trauma survivors are often labeled “difficult” simply for growing. This is an honest conversation about breaking generational patterns, releasing people-pleasing, and learning to stand in your truth even when others are uncomfortable with your change.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Healing While Grieving

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Healing doesn’t happen without grief — especially at the end of the year, when reflection can bring up everything you’ve lost along the way. In this episode, we explore the quiet grief that shows up during trauma healing: grieving who you used to be, the life you thought you’d have, and the parts of yourself shaped by survival. We talk about how the end-of-year season can intensify this loss, how healing often requires mourning versions of yourself that kept you alive, and how to hold compassion for both growth and grief at the same time. This is an honest conversation for anyone learning to honor what’s been lost while continuing to move forward.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

The End of the Year Spiral: The Truth About Failing Behind

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0500

As the year comes to a close, so many of us fall into the silent spiral — comparing ourselves, questioning our progress, and feeling like we’ve somehow “failed behind.” In this episode, we get honest about the pressure that builds in the final months of the year and the way trauma can intensify self-criticism, urgency, and shame. We unpack the myths around productivity, the fear of not doing enough, and the emotional weight of reflecting on a year that didn’t go as planned. This is a compassionate reminder that your worth isn’t measured by checklists, timelines, or accomplishments — and you’re not failing just because you’re tired, overwhelmed, or still growing.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Breaking Free From Cycle of Holiday Obligation

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0500

The holidays can bring joy — but they can also bring pressure, guilt, and expectations. In this episode, we talk about the emotional weight of holiday obligations and how trauma, family dynamics, and people-pleasing patterns keep us stuck in traditions that drain us. We explore what it means to redefine the holidays on your own terms, honor your needs, and release the belief that you owe everyone your presence at the cost of your peace.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

When "No" Feels Dangerous

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 14:00:00 -0500

For many people with trauma histories, saying “no” isn’t just uncomfortable — it feels dangerous. Especially during the holidays, when expectations and family dynamics intensify. In this episode, we dive into why setting boundaries can trigger fear, guilt, or survival responses, and how to navigate the holidays while honoring your limits. This is an honest conversation about reclaiming your voice, protecting your emotional safety, and learning that “no” is not disrespect — it’s self-preservation.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Weaponize Gratitude

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0500

What happens when gratitude is used against you? In this episode, we unpack the dark side of “be grateful” culture — when people use gratitude to silence your pain, dismiss your needs, or guilt you out of wanting more. We explore how trauma survivors often internalize this pressure, confusing gratitude with self-abandonment. This conversation sheds light on how to reclaim gratitude in a healthy way, without shrinking, settling, or staying in situations that harm you.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Messy Life, Grateful Heart

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0500

Life doesn’t magically get neat and orderly just because we’re healing — it stays messy, confusing, beautifully imperfect. In this episode, we explore how gratitude can coexist with struggle, how you can hold appreciation even when everything isn’t fixed, and why gratitude has nothing to do with perfection. It’s about presence, honesty, and noticing what’s still good even in the middle of the chaos. This is a grounding conversation for anyone learning to live in the “both/and”: a messy life and a grateful heart.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Adulting 101

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0400

No one really teaches us how to be adults — especially when childhood was about survival, not stability. In this episode, we break down what “adulting” looks like through a trauma-informed lens: learning to self-regulate, set boundaries, manage responsibilities, and care for yourself in ways you were never shown. We talk about the guilt, confusion, and growing pains that come with reparenting yourself and building a life that feels safe, grounded, and truly yours.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Navigating the Trauma Lens

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Trauma changes the way we see ourselves, others, and the world. In this episode, we explore what it means to live — and heal — through a trauma lens. From hypervigilance to self-blame, we unpack how past wounds shape present perspectives and reactions. Together, we look at how to recognize when your trauma lens is distorting reality, how to ground yourself in the present, and what it takes to begin seeing life through clarity instead of survival.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Heaven and Hell Are in Your Head

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we explore how the mind can create both peace and pain — how “heaven and hell” are not just spiritual concepts, but internal realities shaped by our experiences and unhealed trauma. We talk about the ways our thoughts, memories, and beliefs can keep us trapped in cycles of fear, shame, or self-doubt, and how awareness and compassion can open the door to inner freedom. This episode invites listeners to look inward, challenge old narratives, and begin creating a mental space that feels more like heaven — even after living through personal hells.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

The Courage To Heal

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Healing isn’t about simply waiting for time to pass — it takes courage. In this episode, we explore what it really means to face the work of healing: confronting pain, choosing growth even when it’s uncomfortable, and daring to believe you deserve better. We unpack the myths about “time heals all wounds” and highlight why healing is an active, intentional journey that requires strength, vulnerability, and persistence.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

My Distorted Sense of Being

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0400

What happens when who you believe you are is built on someone else’s lens instead of your own? In this episode, we go deeper into the ripple effects of emotional invalidation — how repeated dismissal, gaslighting, or control can distort your sense of self and fracture your foundation. We unpack the ways trauma shapes identity, how living through someone else’s definition of you creates confusion and self-doubt, and what it takes to begin rebuilding a sense of being that is truly yours.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Your Emotions and Feelings Are Valid

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0400

So many of us grew up being told we were “too sensitive,” “too much,” or that our feelings didn’t matter. In this episode, we reclaim the truth: your emotions and feelings are valid. We explore how trauma teaches us to dismiss or bury what we feel, the consequences of silencing our inner world, and the healing that comes from honoring our emotions without apology. This is an invitation to stop minimizing your pain, start trusting your feelings, and give yourself permission to take up emotional space.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

The Ultimate Abandonment of Me

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0400

The deepest betrayal isn’t always someone else walking away — it’s when we abandon ourselves. In this episode, we unpack what happens when survival, people-pleasing, or fear push us to silence our own needs, ignore our truth, and shrink to keep others comfortable. Together, we explore how self-abandonment takes root in trauma, the toll it takes on our sense of worth, and the path back to choosing ourselves again.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Denial Is Sexy

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Unpacking Me: The Parts of Trauma No One Talks About

Sometimes, denial feels easier than truth. In this episode, we unpack how trauma can make denial look “sexy” — convincing us to stay in relationships, roles, and situations that no longer serve us. We explore why the brain leans on denial as protection, how it masks pain with false comfort, and what it costs when we trade authenticity for survival. This is an honest conversation about the ways we dress up denial to avoid loss, conflict, or change — and how we can begin to choose truth over illusion.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Your No Is Not A Character Flaw

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Too often, individuality gets twisted into “disrespect” when you don’t comply with someone else’s expectations. In this episode, we unpack the shame tactics used to silence authenticity, the weight of shrinking yourself to fit, and why honoring your own voice is an act of self-respect.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Shaming Me Into Being You: When Individuality Gets Labeled as Disrespect

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0400

When your authentic self is seen as defiance, shame becomes a tool to force conformity. In this episode, we explore how families, partners, and communities can twist individuality into “disrespect,” the emotional cost of living for others’ approval, and the courage it takes to reclaim your own voice.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Living to Die: Giving up or Just Suicidal

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -0400

⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode discusses suicidal thoughts and emotional pain. Listener discretion advised. If you’re in crisis, please reach out: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (Call/Text 988, 988lifeline.org), Crisis Text Line (Text HOME to 741741 in U.S. & Canada, crisistextline.org), or Wildflower Alliance (Call/Text 888-407-4515, wildfloweralliance.org).

We explore the quiet space between wanting to end life and simply feeling too exhausted to live it. This raw conversation unpacks the toll of trauma, the difference between giving up and being suicidal, and how to find compassion and support when life feels too heavy.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Faking Joy

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0400

In this raw and reflective episode, we dive into the emotional labor of pretending to be okay when you're anything but. "Faking Joy" explores how trauma survivors often learn to wear happiness as a mask—smiling through pain, showing up for others while silently falling apart, and becoming experts at emotional camouflage. We unpack the deep-rooted survival patterns behind this performance, the cost it takes on our mental health, and how to start reclaiming authentic joy on our own terms. If you've ever felt like you're performing happiness just to be accepted or keep the peace, this conversation is for you.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Why We Stay Silent: Respectability Politics and Mental Health

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0400

In this powerful episode, we explore how the pressure to appear "good," "proper," and "respectable" can silence our truth and erode our mental health. Respectability politics—especially in marginalized communities—often teaches us to suppress emotions, avoid conflict, and present perfection to gain acceptance or safety. But at what cost? We unpack the hidden toll this takes on self-worth, emotional expression, and healing. Join us as we discuss how breaking the silence and challenging these social expectations is a vital step toward authentic mental wellness and liberation.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Alcohol, Parties, and Pain: Escaping vs Healing

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 19:00:00 -0400

In this episode, “Alcohol, Parties, and Pain: Escaping vs Healing,” we unpack the hidden alcoholism and emotional avoidance that often go unspoken in marginalized communities. From the outside, the parties, drinking, and turn-up culture may seem like fun—but underneath is often a deep well of unhealed trauma and generational pain.

We explore how alcohol becomes a normalized coping mechanism and why genuine healing feels inaccessible or even taboo in spaces where survival is prioritized over self-awareness. Together, we challenge the glorification of escapism and open a conversation about what true emotional healing looks like when cultural narratives tell us to keep smiling, keep partying, and keep moving.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

The Real Cost of Toughing It Out: Chronic Illness and Trauma

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0400

What happens when we keep pushing through pain instead of listening to it? In this episode, we explore the deeply rooted connection between trauma and chronic illness — from fibroids and diabetes to autoimmune disorders. We unpack how unprocessed trauma can live in the body, shaping our health in ways that are often dismissed or misunderstood. This is a conversation about more than just symptoms; it’s about the emotional labor of being strong, the pressure to "tough it out," and what it really means to start healing from the inside out.

Whether you're navigating a diagnosis, supporting someone who is, or just beginning to wonder how your past may be affecting your health — this episode offers a space for reflection, validation, and hope.

Trigger warning: This episode discusses chronic illness, medical trauma, and the emotional impact of long-term health challenges.

📚 Resources Mentioned:

Looking for therapy? → Dare2Emerge.com

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Sexual Abuse in the Shadows: When Silence Protects the Wrong People

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 10:00:00 -0400

In this powerful episode, we break the silence surrounding sexual abuse and the culture of secrecy that often protects perpetrators instead of survivors. Together, we explore the unspoken rules, family dynamics, and cultural pressures that silence victims and enable generational harm. From the weight of shame to the fear of not being believed, we unpack how silence becomes a weapon — and why speaking out is an act of both personal and collective liberation. This conversation is raw, necessary, and long overdue.

Trigger warning: This episode discusses sexual trauma, abuse, and themes that may be distressing. Please listen with care.

📚 Resources Mentioned:

Looking for therapy? → Dare2Emerge.com

💬 Support & Resources for Survivors

1. RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
📞 24/7 National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
🌐 https://www.rainn.org
Free, confidential support and resources for survivors of sexual violence.

2. Therapy for Black Girls – Therapist Directory
🌐 https://www.therapyforblackgirls.com
A mental health platform with a therapist locator, podcast, and blog for Black women and girls.

3. The National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN)
🌐 https://www.nctsn.org
Provides resources for children, families, and professionals dealing with trauma, including sexual abuse.

4. Take Back the Night Foundation
🌐 https://takebackthenight.org
Supports survivors, raises awareness, and hosts global events to end sexual violence.

5. 1in6 (For male survivors of sexual abuse)
🌐 https://1in6.org
Education, support, and anonymous online chat for men who’ve experienced sexual trauma.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Wearing The Mask: How Perfectionism Is Killing Us Slowly

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Wearing The Mask: How Perfectionism Is Killing Us Slowly
The pressure to achieve as survival—and its mental cost.

Perfectionism isn’t just about high standards—it’s a survival strategy, especially for those raised in environments where being “perfect” felt like the only way to stay safe, be accepted, or prove their worth. In this episode, we unpack the emotional weight of performance, the burnout beneath the grind, and the silence behind the smile.

We explore how this pressure shows up in marginalized communities, passed down through generations as both armor and burden. But what happens when that mask starts to crack? What does healing look like when you're tired of performing? This is your invitation to take the mask off—and begin to heal, slowly and safely.

🌿 Resources for Healing:

Essential Oils: Lavender Oil & Chamomile Oil – known for their calming, grounding effects.
Book: When the Body Says No by Dr. Gabor Maté – a deep dive into the connection between stress, trauma, and physical illness.
App: The Stair App – a trauma-informed tool to help you track and care for your mental health, step by step.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Jealousy, or Something Deeper? The Truth About Anxiety and Depression

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Jealousy, or Something Deeper? The Truth About Anxiety and Depression
Translating misunderstood mental health labels into real issues.

Is it really jealousy—or is it depression in disguise?
In this episode, we explore how emotions like sadness, irritability, or withdrawal are often mislabeled as jealousy or “hating,” especially within marginalized communities. But what if what you're seeing isn’t envy—it’s a cry for help masked by anxiety or depression?

We dive into how mental health struggles are frequently misunderstood, dismissed, or shamed, and the deep impact that stigma has on people of color and other underserved groups. Let’s have the conversation that too often gets silenced—and start recognizing the pain behind the labels.

📚 Resources Mentioned:

Looking for therapy? → Dare2Emerge.com

Groups to know about:
🔸 The Friendship Space → Events at Dare2Emerge
🔸 Wildflower Alliance → wildfloweralliance.org

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Caribbean Parenting Styles and the Hidden Wounds They Leave

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Caribbean Parenting Styles and the Hidden Wounds They Leave

In this powerful episode, we take a deep dive into Caribbean parenting, exploring the normalized use of authoritarian discipline, physical punishment, and emotional neglect. What are the unspoken wounds left behind by a culture of "tough love"? And how do these early experiences shape our sense of self, safety, and connection as adults? Join us as we unpack the generational patterns, cultural context, and personal impact of parenting practices that often go unquestioned—but leave lasting emotional scars.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Big People Don't Cry? - The Shame Around Showing Emotions

Thu, 29 May 2025 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we unpack the damaging belief that strength means staying stoic and emotionally numb. Why are vulnerability and emotion still seen as weaknesses, especially for men and those expected to "hold it all together"? We explore the roots of this cultural myth, how shame gets attached to emotional expression, and what real strength actually looks like. Join us as we deconstruct the “toughen up” mindset and make space for a more honest, human kind of resilience.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Family Doesn’t Always Mean Safe – Breaking Generational Trauma

Thu, 22 May 2025 17:00:00 -0400

Family Doesn’t Always Mean Safe – Breaking Generational Trauma- Addressing toxic loyalty and family betrayal.

What happens when the people who are supposed to protect you become the source of your pain? In this episode, we explore the difficult truth that family doesn’t always mean safety. From toxic loyalty to betrayal masked as love, we unpack the emotional weight of staying silent for the sake of “keeping the peace.” Join us as we break down generational trauma, challenge the idea that blood is always thicker than boundaries, and talk about what it really means to choose your well-being over family dysfunction.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Unpacking Me: Why Pray It Away isn't Enough

Sat, 10 May 2025 13:00:00 -0400

Unpacking Me: Why Pray It Away isn't Enough- Faith and Mental Health

Have you ever felt the pressure to simply "pray away" your emotional struggles? This episode of Unpacking Me tackles the often-unspoken stigma that faith alone can cure mental health challenges. We explore the complexities of emotional wounds, discuss why this perspective can be invalidating (it's not always depression!), and champion the integration of faith and mental health support for true well-being. We also highlight valuable resources:

It's Not Always Depression: Working the Change Triangle to Listen to the Body, Discover Core Emotions, and Connect to Your Authentic Self
Boundaries Updated and Expanded Edition: When to Say Yes, How to Say No To Take Control of Your Life
The supportive community offered by Therapy for Black Girls.
The wealth of information available at Psychology Today.

Tune in for a more compassionate and comprehensive understanding of healing.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Unpacking Me: The Intro 2

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Welcome to Unpacking Me, a podcast where we get real about the experiences that shaped us—the good, the bad, and the messy. In this first episode, we’re opening up about why we started this journey, the meaning behind the podcast, and the personal struggles that led us here.

Join us as we dive into the baggage we’ve carried, the healing we’re working toward, and the conversations we wish more people were having. This is just the beginning of an honest, raw, and necessary dialogue about trauma, growth, and self-discovery.

If you’ve ever felt weighed down by your past or just needed a space where real emotions are welcomed—this is for you. Let’s unpack together.

Resources for Support:

Wildflower Alliance – A grassroots peer support network for trauma, mental health, and recovery.
Adult Children of Alcoholics & Dysfunctional Families (ACA) – A support group for those who grew up in alcoholic or dysfunctional homes, focusing on healing and breaking generational cycles.
Mood Meter App – A tool to help track, understand, and regulate emotions for better mental well-being.

You’re not alone—help is out there. 💜

Find Us Here:

Emergent Counseling & Consulting LLC – Need personalized support? Check us out at dare2emerge.com for therapy and consulting services.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.

Unpacking Me: The Intro

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 10:00:00 -0500

Welcome to "Unpacking Me: The Parts Of Healing No One Talks About," where therapists Nicky and Mernelle explore the often overlooked aspects of personal growth and self-discovery.

Join us for candid conversations, personal anecdotes, and expert insights as we shed light on the diverse dimensions of healing beyond therapy sessions. Whether you're on your own healing journey or curious about its transformative nature, our podcast invites you to join the conversation and discover the profound, unexpected, and unexplored aspects of healing. Welcome to "Unpacking Me" – let the journey begin.

Thank you for tuning in to Unpacking Me! We appreciate each and every one of our listeners. Your presence in our community is truly valued, and we're grateful for each and every listener.

For those seeking a Therapist in the Broward County, FL area, explore the services at www.dare2emerge.com.