The Sidebar by NYABJ

Break The Stigma: Mind Your Mental Health

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, The Sidebar's LISA DURDEN had an informative discussion with therapist DR. LASHAWN PAUL (“The Social Work Diva”) and psychiatrist DR. TOLU OLUPONA about mental health in the Black community and addressing the racial and gender disparities in mental health care, access, and treatment. In this episode, Dr. Paul and Dr. Olupona discuss the importance of maintaining good mental health, early intervention, and prevention. They also explore several critical topics, from unpacking the cultural stigma surrounding mental health to finding a culturally competent mental health clinician. --------- The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.

Real Talk on Menopause and Mental Health with Darlene Thomas

In this episode of The Sidebar, hosted by SHAMEIKA RHYMES, the focus is on women's health, particularly menopause and its impact on women's lives. Guest DARLENE THOMAS, a health and wellness consultant (Maven Clinic, Respin), shares her expertise on menopause, discussing its stages, symptoms, and how it affects women both physically and emotionally. She emphasizes the importance of understanding menopause as a transition rather than a decline, advocating for lifestyle changes, community support, and self-care to manage symptoms. The conversation also notes the challenges women face in balancing careers, caregiving, and personal health, and stress during this stage of life. Darlene encourages women to track their symptoms, seek supportive communities, and focus on one lifestyle change at a time to improve their well-being. --------- The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.

LIVE: The Layoff Lounge

In this episode of The Sidebar, we revisit February’s Layoff Lounge panel, a timely and candid conversation centered on navigating the realities of today’s shifting media landscape. Moderated by NYABJ Vice President-Print FONDA SANDERS, , the panel brought together TORRENCE S. TRAYNHAM, Founder & CTO of D9 Resume Exchange and KAMIKA DILLARD, Tech Strategist and Founder of Fail Forward Coaching. Together, they offer practical guidance and forward-looking strategies for media professionals facing layoffs or preparing for potential career pivots. As journalism organizations across the country and around the world continue to undergo staff reductions, this discussion serves as both a resource and a rallying point. Panelists share insights on staying competitive in the job market, leveraging networks, reframing career narratives, and building resilience in uncertain times. (Note: This episode was recorded on February 10th, 2026. The intro mistakenly noted that this was recorded in January. An updated version of the episode with a corrected intro will be uploaded.) --------- The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.

Empowering Voices: A Conversation with Gloria Anderson, MA, CCC-SLP

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with GLORIA ANDERSON, a New Jersey-based Speech- Language Pathologist and Augmentative Communication Specialist whose work is transforming lives. As an ASHA-certified clinician with experience at specialized institutions like Kohler Academy, Gloria brings a unique perspective shaped by her multifaceted journey as an entrepreneur, mother, and dedicated speech pathologist. Join us as we explore her career path, the challenges and triumphs of balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood, and her passion for giving voice to those who need it most. --------- The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.

The First Take Takeover IV!

The New York Association of Black Journalists’ First Take Class of 2026 has taken over the mic to produce an entire episode of The Sidebar. First Take is NYABJ’s annual multi-weekend workshop and mentorship program, providing NYC-area high schoolers with an interactive experience in the world of journalism. In this episode, our "First Takers" deliver fresh perspectives on the year’s top headlines in news, politics, sports, and music. Tune in to hear the future of media as they tackle the topics shaping their world with professionalism and style. For more information on First Take and opportunities to support the next generation of journalists, visit www.nyabj.org. --------- The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.