Ray of Hope: The Podcast

On this episode, we talk about the connection between sports, gambling and mental health. Student and professional athletes deserve to have access to mental health services. We speak about providing support to athletes and those who also engage in addictive behaviors of gambling. Help is available.

Disclaimer: Sensitive content may be posted. On the next episode of Ray of Hope, we will speak with Eric Bell who lost his daughter Imani Bell after she complained to her coaches about basketball practice in the heat. The heat index was in the triple digits and a heat advisory was issued in Atlanta. His daughter collapsed and never recovered. The coaches and athletic directors have all been charged in her death. He is sharing his story to bring awareness to school athletic practices and to create change to save other students. Bio: Born and Raised in New Ordnance, LA., Attended SUNO FOR UNDERGRAD, played Basketball, won 2 conference championships, Bachelor of Science, Cambridge University M.Ed., Teacher and Coach since 1997, resident of Atlanta, GA., since 1999....15 years experience as a Head Coach, Current Head Coach@Columbia High School in 8 years we have won 3 region championships, 1 Sweet 16, 2 elite 8 appearances, 1 final four, and we've made the state playoffs every year....3 time region coach of the year, 2 time Dekalb County Coach of the year, 3 time team of the year in Dekalb County.... Most Positive Girls Coach in Atlanta award in 2023.

On this episode, we speak with Adrienne Wilson about surviving domestic violence and seeking justice against her offender. Adrienne is dedicated to telling her story to inspire others to seek help and justice before it's too late. She is the proud mother of three sons and owns a boutique called S.H.E 614 which stands for sexy, hipped and empowered. Her strength and perseverance are commendable.

On the next episode of Ray of Hope: The Talk Show and Podcast, we speak with Dr. Marcie Littlejohn Hill. Dr. Marcie  has a Master’s in Business Administration and Doctorate in Healthcare Administration. She is a licensed financial professional who will be educating us on financial literacy, planning and leaving a legacy of wealth and not poverty. Tune in to be educated and informed about establishing financial freedom. Debt management is vital in these times.

We speak with the co-founder of The Daughter’s Den, Quanishia Gibson. Quanishia Gibson is a LPC Intern at Victory Mental Health Services of Columbus, she enjoys working with couples, families, and individuals on relationship issues, family dynamics, self-worth, self-esteem, depression, stress, trauma, emotional abuse and other mental health issues. Gibson received her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Toledo and Master of Arts in Counseling from Geneva College with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is the cofounder of nonprofit The Daughters Den and intergenerational healing space for Black women and girls. Gibson is a member of the Ohio Counseling Association as well as the American Counseling Association. Her approach to therapy is real, holistic, and integrative. She holds training in trauma support, psychological first aid, and Gottman methods for couples. She believes in helping clients embrace a more holistic (mind, body, spirit) approach to mental health for a better lived experience.

On this episode, we speak with the owner of Allways Working Radio, DJ Swmpthing. He is a native of New Orleans who moved to Columbus, Ohio after being displaced by hurricane Katrina. Erin Saul is a DJ, radio personality, CEO, podcast host, media ambassador, and Midwest training manager for Fleet DJs. Music is a form of therapy for many individuals and radio personalities play a vital role in keeping us inspired. Tune in  to learn more about his new radio station, podcast, and upcoming events.

On this episode, we speak about why we pray and praying boldly for healing, confirmation, clarity, and more. We also discuss intercessory prayer when dealing with mental health challenges and more. Scripture reminds us that we can pray boldly which leads to action.

Raya and Leslie are back for season 3 and open with a discussion on menopause and mental health issues. The signs and symptoms of menopause can mimic other illnesses and impact mental health stability. Various factors including hormones play a significant role in the response to these changes.

On this episode, we speak with the owner of 1580thepraise.com and his inspiration for having a faith-based platform. Bishop Mel Griffin speaks about his dedication to the faith-based community and ensuring individuals have access to shows that encourage and inspire. Bishop Griffin is instrumental in uplifting other and is a dedicated pillar in the community and church.

On this episode, Leslie and I speak about trials and tribulations that test our faith. We all face difficult times that test our patience and faith. We all have battles and have to learn how to maneuver through these tough times. It is often said that there are no messages without the mess and not testimony without the test. Learn to be steadfast during your battles and how to increase your faith for a positive outcome.

On this episode, we discuss the opioid and overdose crisis in Ohio. There  is a influx of overdose deaths related to laced streets drugs. This crisis is impacting all colors, genders, social classes, and races. No one is exempt from this issue. Please listen and learn about getting free Narcan to save a life.

On this episode, Dr. Raya talks about attending her 30-year class reunion July 2023, and how high school pressure impacts the mental health of our youth. Sound engineer DJ Mike Dickerson joins the conversation to discuss community engagement and assisting our youth through their process of development.

On this episode, I speak with Bobbi "Chee Chee" Chandler, the CEO and founder of Healing In Victory. Tune in as she shares her personal story and journey to eradicate the stigma associated with HIV. Learn more about her foundation and upcoming community events.

On this episode, I speak with Dytania Hudson aka Tania who is the proud mother of 3. She is a community educator and member of Ohio Family's Unite Against Police Brutality. She is also the founder of S.T.O.P: Start Teaching Our People. Tania is working with several organizations such as Moms in Healing, Urban GEMS and is currently a foster parent. She lost 2 of her 3 children and 1 grandson.  Johnny L. Bell, III lost his life in our community to senseless gun violence a day before Mother's Day in 2009. Deaunte Bell was shot and killed by 2 Columbus, Ohio police officers on 10/2015. Her grandson was killed by a hit and run driver. She is sharing her story to seek justice and reform laws and policies.

On this episode, we speak with Mr. Londale Towns, Sr. CLC M.Div. about the power of community and the importance of positive representation for our youth. Londale is a community leader and justice advocate. ✅Mental Health Counselor✅Behavior Analyst ✅Behavior Specialist✅LYFE Savers...Founder/CEO✅We Are Linden…Founding Father🌟Licensed Chemical Dependency counselor- LCDC🌟Masters in Pastoral Leadership and Clinical Counseling, Addictions Counseling concentration🌟Independent Marriage & Family Therapist- IMFT

On this episode of Ray of Hope, the conversation continues with Ruben Minor. Ruben discusses his decision to seek help for his personal mental health issues and how the decision has affected his life. Ruben is candid and transparent about his struggles with mental health issues related to his relationship with his father.

On this episode of Ray of Hope, Raya and Leslie speak with Ruben Minor who is the founder of F4 Men’s Movement for mental health, recording artist, spin class instructor, and financial expert. Ruben speaks about the importance of bringing awareness to men’s mental health issues and how to reach out for help. Ruben’s F4 program focuses on Family, Faith, Fitness, and Finances.

On this episode, Raya and Leslie continue their conversation with the founder of Lives Worth Saving Foundation, Dana Brock. Dana speaks about bringing the community together to collaborate on an effort to combat gun violence. Dana encourages leaders and activists to join forces to provide programs geared toward helping the youth.

On this episode of Ray of Hope, Raya and Leslie talk about reaching a milestone of 2 seasons and 20 episodes. We revisit season one, speak about how we met, and the future of our podcast and foundation. We are grateful for all of the listeners and supporters throughout this journey. This platform is focused on faith, favor and fruition. It was created for our community to be heard and supported through the journey of healing.

On this episode, Raya and Leslie speak with the founders of Phemale Wear clothing line and the Phemale Safe House. Silvia Townsend and Denise Saulsbery lost their friend to domestic and gun violence. They created their clothing line and safe house in honor of their friend with hopes of bringing awareness to domestic violence and providing a safe space for victims. This dynamic duo began as a rap group with songs on movie soundtracks, traveling the world and more. They are using their platform to help women turn struggles into strength.