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!

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 underscores the power of collective healing and the role of community in mental health.

Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction
1:04 - Meet Kayla Bell-Consolver
2:02 - The Essence of Community Healing
3:52 - Ancestral Practices in Modern Healing
5:52 - Evidence-Based vs. Lived Experience
7:52 - Healing While Helping Others
10:07 - Cultivating Online Communities
13:32 - Navigating Multi-Generational Relationships
17:42 - Managing Negativity in Online Communities
21:57 - Evolving Communities Over Time
25:16 - Investment in Community Relationships
26:44 - My City My Health and Community Healing
29:08 - Importance of Community in Healthcare
30:38 - Conclusion

Links to Mental Health Resources:

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
• Mental Health America (MHA)
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
• Therapy for Black Girls
• Black Mental Health Alliance

Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring conversations on mental health and wellness!

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 and inspiring discussion emphasizing the significance of mental well-being in our daily lives.

Topics Covered:

• Introduction and welcoming Leah Lint
• Leah's mental health journey
• The impact of supportive leadership
• Finding the right therapist
• Balancing personal and professional life
• Advice for those seeking mental health support

Chapter Markers: 0:00 - Introduction and Welcome
0:28 - Leah's Current State and Busy Week
1:10 - Mental Health Journey and Challenges
2:49 - Supportive Leadership Experience
4:34 - The Importance of Caring Leaders
5:31 - Therapy Process and Finding the Right Fit
7:17 - Personal Style and Comfort in Therapy
9:08 - Challenges in Finding the Right Therapist 1
0:29 - Referral Networks and Recommendations
11:29 - Indirect Leadership and Employee Support
12:54 - Efficiency of Supporting Employees
14:08 - Blending Personal and Professional Life
15:29 - Therapy Milestones and Celebrations
16:34 - Mental Health Days and Workplace Acceptance
17:29 - Recognizing and Celebrating Progress
18:36 - Consistency in Mental Health Practices
20:02 - Journaling and Identifying Triggers
21:24 - Managing Stress and Anxiety at Work
21:54 - Advice for Mental Wellness Journey
23:37 - Closing Remarks and Encouragement
24:27 - Conclusion and Call to Action

Mental Health Resources:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for free and confidential support.
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Visit www.nami.org or call the NAMI Helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264).
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Visit www.samhsa.gov or call the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
• Mental Health America (MHA): Visit www.mhanational.org for resources and support.
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for free, 24/7 crisis counseling.