This “NO”vember, Coach LA recognizes Black Men's Mental Health Awareness Month with Author, Eric “EJ Spin” Jones, to unpack the courage it takes for Black men to say no to silence and yes to healing. Through the lens of fatherhood, mentorship, and storytelling, they explore how Black men navigate emotional honesty, community leadership, and creative legacy. From the mic to the camera, EJ Spin’s work challenges stereotypes and amplifies the real stories that shape our collective understanding of Black masculinity. This episode is part truth-telling, part healing circle, and fully a masterclass in what it means to BET on SELF™ — even when the world tells you to stay strong and stay silent. Press play and don't miss this powerful conversation on the virtual couch!
“Say NO to Silence” — A powerful exploration of Black men’s mental health, fatherhood, mentorship, and storytelling. This episode dives into how creative expression and community connections become pathways to emotional liberation and generational healing.
Eric “EJ Spin” Jones is an author, DJ, and documentary storyteller dedicated to uplifting the voices of Black men through mentorship and art. His projects highlight the strength, humor, and humanity often missing from mainstream narratives. Whether behind the decks or behind the lens, EJ Spin’s mission is clear: amplify the truth and inspire transformation.
The emotional reality of Black fatherhood and redefining “strength”
Mentorship as a mental health practice
How storytelling becomes therapy for the soul
The power of saying “no” — to silence, burnout, and societal expectations
How Black men can reclaim their emotional voice and rewrite their narratives
Only 26% of Black men who experience depression receive treatment (APA, 2024).
Black men are 60% more likely to die by suicide than Black women (CDC, 2023).
Community mentorship programs have been shown to reduce depressive symptoms by 45% in Black youth and young adults (NIMH, 2022).
Expressive storytelling increases self-efficacy and emotional resilience among Black men by up to 40% (Harvard School of Public Health, 2023).
“What have you said NO to lately that created more peace in your life?”
Coach LA invites listeners to reflect on the boundaries they’ve set and the emotional breakthroughs they’ve allowed by saying no to overextending, performing, and people-pleasing.
Affirmation: “My ‘no’ protects my peace, and my peace is my power.”
In this week’s closing reflection, Coach LA reminds us that emotional suppression isn’t strength — it’s survival. And while survival built us, healing will sustain us.
Quote:
“You can’t lead your legacy from an empty soul. Healing is the most revolutionary act of leadership you’ll ever take.”
If this episode moved you, share it with a brother who needs this reminder:
🖤 You are seen.
🗣️ You are heard.
💪🏾 You are allowed to heal.
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