Whole Hearted Westcoast Living | Season 2

What do hip hop rivalries and family systems have in common? More than you’d think. In this episode, we crack open the concept of “beef”—not just the lyrical kind that’s rocked stages and headlines, but the everyday conflict we carry into our homes, relationships, and healing journeys.

From Tupac vs. Biggie to generational trauma, we're unpacking how confrontation, authenticity, and even dysfunction can be pathways to growth. Join us as we weave together the evolution of hip hop with personal stories, therapeutic insight, and the power of resolving tension in meaningful ways.

This episode isn’t just about music—it’s about real life, deep healing, and of course - beef. 

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Healing Is Ceremony, Even When It Doesn’t Look Like It

In this episode, we’re unpacking the meaning of ceremony — not just the kind with sage and prayer, but the ones that live in everyday moments. From lowrider Sundays and oldies playlists to hip hop battles and hot yoga sessions, we explore the ways different communities have always found healing through movement, rhythm, and connection. 

We get real about how Western mental health has pulled from Indigenous traditions — somatic work, community rituals, plant medicine, and ceremony — often without honoring where they came from. And we share how reclaiming these roots brings deeper meaning to our healing journeys.

This one’s for anyone finding their way back to self, culture, and spirit. Whether it’s through dance, tears, prayer, or playlist — healing is already in us. It’s in the rhythm. It’s in the practice. It’s in the everyday sacred.

🎧 Tap in and remember: healing isn’t always quiet — sometimes it hits like a beat drop or smells like your grandma’s kitchen.

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“Social work ain’t what you thought.” In this fire episode of The Wholehearted West Coast Living Podcast, Brittani, Alex, and Mike break down the real roots of social work — beyond textbooks and titles — and bring it home to the block, the culture, and the community. This ain’t your average lecture. We’re talking grandmas as the OG social workers, mentorship as medicine, and why hip-hop has always been therapy. The crew dives into the power of women in leadership, the emotional labor of motherhood, and what it means to hold space in 2025 as a healer, a parent, and a professional — without losing yourself in the grind. They also get real about:

• Reclaiming the spirit of social work from the systems that tried to sanitize it
• Setting boundaries with family (without the guilt trip)
• Breaking generational cycles while honoring the wisdom that came before us
• Imposter syndrome, black excellence, and healing through rhythm, movement, and connection

From hood to healing, from clinical to cultural, this one’s for the community workers, the therapists, the cycle-breakers, and the future social workers who grew up navigating survival and are now creating spaces of resilience. Tap in and tell your homegirl, your cousin, your mentor, and your therapist. This one hits.

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The world is wild right now, but women stay holding it down.

In this episode of The Wholehearted West Coast Living Podcast, Brittani and Alex dive into the power, resilience, and healing of women in honor of International Women’s Day. From navigating the chaos of today’s world to the unspoken labor women take on at home and in their careers, they break down the weight women carry and how to protect their peace in the madness.

They also talk about music as medicine, the power of movement in healing, and how women have always been at the center of cultural revolutions. From the Black Panther movement to the mental health field today, women continue to shape history, push boundaries, and redefine leadership—while still handling business at home.

Plus, Alex shares a wild backstage story about playing Magic: The Gathering with Post Malone (yeah, you read that right).

Whether you’re balancing work and motherhood, trying to make space for your own joy, or just need a reminder that you are gold, this episode is for you. Tap in, celebrate yourself, and keep thriving.

Hit play. Let’s get into it.

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“Love is just a word, but you bring it definition.”
— Wale ft. Sam Dew, “LoveHate Thing”

In this episode of The Wholehearted West Coast Living Podcast, Brittani, Mike, and Alex dive deep into love in all its forms—romantic, platonic, self-love, and community. They keep it real about relationships, emotional vulnerability, and the struggles of masculinity when it comes to affection.

The crew also gets into Black History Month, breaking down cultural identity, healing through music, and the power of representation in therapy. From love songs to real talk on generational trauma, codependency, and self-worth, this episode is packed with insight, laughs, and raw emotion.Whether you're celebrating Valentine's Day, healing from a breakup, or just vibing with some dope conversation, this one’s for you. Tap in, get inspired, and drop your favorite love song in the comments!

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In this episode of The Wholehearted West Coast Living Podcast, host Brittani is back after a break with two amazing guests—returning guest Mike and new intern Alex. They discuss the importance of mental health, self-care, and navigating big life transitions, including grief, burnout, and the challenges of staying consistent in creative work. The conversation touches on the power of community, the role of music in healing, and the impact of social media (including the brief TikTok ban) on small businesses. They also dive into the recent Kendrick Lamar album GNX, hip-hop culture, and reflections on prioritizing time with loved ones. Tune in for a real, heartfelt discussion on resilience, creativity, and navigating uncertainty in 2025.

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What’s up Healmatic Family!! Get ready for another captivating episode as our team dives deep into a very much needed conversation about intergenerational healing. Hosted by Brittani Williams, this transformative conversation features the expertise of Michael Brown, and Mitzy Ruelas both integral members of the Healmatic Collective. In this illuminating episode, our team explores the profound impact of trauma and healing as we see it passed on through generations, leaving imprints on relationships, family dynamics, culture, and the simple acts of how we do everyday life. Join us as we unravel the power of unlearning detrimental patterns, breaking the silence and shame, and reshaping specific gender roles for a more connected and harmonious future. This episode delves into the fascinating world of family narratives. Brittani, Michael, and Mitzy shed light on the significance of understanding storytelling and learning from our history. Discover how shared stories and experiences serve as catalysts for both individual and collective healing, paving the way for a transformative journey. Cultivating resilience and strength shifts as the focus of another segment, where we navigate through therapy and various forms of support. Our team discusses the vital role these elements play in intergenerational healing, sharing inspiring stories and emphasizing the importance of self-care and self-compassion in the healing process.

Welcome to our podcast, where each episode is a step towards a healthier, more connected future. Join us in this humanized exploration of trauma, healing, and the transformative power of reshaping narratives.

Thank you for tuning in to another episode of the Wholehearted West Coast Living Podcast. We hope today's conversation left you feeling connected and empowered. To stay connected with us, don't forget to hit that subscribe button on your favorite podcast platform. Also make sure to follow us on our social media platforms for behind-the-scenes content, sneak peeks into upcoming episodes, and engaging discussions find us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter @bwilliamslcsw @therapywithmitzy @therapywithmikeb www.healmatic.health

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Welcome to our podcast! In this episode, we have a very dope and organic conversation about healing through music with our guests, Mitzy Ruelas and Michael Brown. Throughout the podcast, we delve into the therapeutic power of music, exploring its historical and cultural significance in healing practices. We emphasize how music has the remarkable ability to evoke emotions and foster connections, making it a valuable asset for mental well-being. As our conversation progresses, we delve into the deeply personal aspect of music as a form of self-expression and catharsis. We share stories of individuals who've harnessed the healing power of music, even featuring a moving clip from LA legend- Nipsey Hussle. Additionally, we reveal our own challenging life moments and the songs that carried us through them. Continuing our exploration, we discuss how music plays a crucial role in regulating emotions and managing stress, anxiety, and depression. We also delve into the scientific aspects of how music influences our nervous system. To wrap things up, we treat you to a musical interlude, sharing songs that we find incredibly healing. Thank you for tuning in to another episode of the Wholehearted West Coast Living Podcast. We hope today's conversation left you feeling connected and empowered. To stay connected with us, don't forget to hit that subscribe button on your favorite podcast platform. Also make sure to follow us on our social media platforms for behind-the-scenes content, sneak peeks into upcoming episodes, and engaging discussions find us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter @bwilliamslcsw @therapywithmitzy @therapywithmikeb www.healmatic.health

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In this compelling episode, we had the privilege of interviewing Jacqui Johnson LPC, ATR-BC, CCMHC, PMH-C, RYT, a multi-talented and highly accomplished and gifted therapist whose expertise spans an array of disciplines. Jacqui Johnson is a force to be reckoned with, holding titles including Somatic Social-Justice Art Therapist, Board-Certified Art Therapist, Play Therapist, Hip Hop Therapist, Emotional Emancipation Circle Leader, Certified Perinatal Mental Health Provider, Registered Kemetic Yoga Teacher, and more. She serves as the Clinical Director of Sankofa Healing Studio, an Adjunct Professor at Jefferson University, and is the visionary behind the EMDR & Brainspotting In Color Group, where she also functions as an EMDR Consultant and Advanced Trainer.In celebration of 50 years of Hip Hop, Jacqui and Brittani discuss the revolutionary and upcoming EMDRIA approved training: Mind, Body & Rhyme: Using EMDR and Hip-Hop Therapy to Foster Creativity, Empowerment & Growth. Through the episode Jaqcui and Brittani discuss the following: Defining and exploring what is EMDR? What are the Misconceptions of EMDR? And Who can benefit from this treatment Model. The hosts also discuss the origins of Hip Hop Therapy and Dr.Edgar Tysons pioneering work as the founding father of Hip Hop Therapy. The intersections of Hip Hop Culture and the key elements of EMDR along with other evidence based practices were also discussed. Jacqui and Brittani end discussing the reason behind doing this training and also share additional regarding the details of the upcoming training.

To learn more about Jacqui please visit her website: https://sankofahealingstudio.org/Register for the training: https://sankofahealingstudio.org/sankofa-healers-corner


Thank you for tuning in to another episode of the Wholehearted West Coast Living Podcast. We hope today's conversation left you feeling connected and empowered. To stay connected with us, don't forget to hit that subscribe button on your favorite podcast platform. Also make sure to follow us on our social media platforms for behind-the-scenes content, sneak peeks into upcoming episodes, and engaging discussions find us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter @bwilliamslcsw. If interested in working with the Healmatic team please visit us at: www.healmatic.health

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wholehearted-west-coast-living-podcast--5792496/support.

Welcome to the Wholehearted West Coast Living Podcast – where we have real conversations about real issues with real people. In this episode, join the Healmatic team as we dive deep into answering questions that you sent to us! Please see below for some of the topics we cover in this episode:

Have you ever struggled with imposter syndrome? Tune in as we explore strategies and insights on how to tackle those nagging feelings of self-doubt and step into your authentic self.

Setting boundaries is crucial for healthy relationships, but what happens when guilt and fear start creeping in? Our team of mental health providers provide practical advice to navigate these complex emotions and maintain your well-being.

Discover what brings healing and grounding to our Healmatic Team. From mindfulness practices to personal anecdotes, gain inspiration for cultivating a sense of inner balance in your own life.

Join us for a candid discussion as we reveal our greatest "ick" in the mental health field. We're here to break down barriers and share our vulnerabilities, making this journey one of growth and understanding.

Ever wondered about the best aspects of being a therapist or social worker? Get an inside look into what we find the most rewarding!


Thank you for tuning in to another episode of the Wholehearted West Coast Living Podcast. We hope today's conversation left you feeling connected and empowered. To stay connected with us, don't forget to hit that subscribe button on your favorite podcast platform. Also make sure to follow us on our social media platforms for behind-the-scenes content, sneak peeks into upcoming episodes, and engaging discussions find us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter @bwilliamslcsw

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wholehearted-west-coast-living-podcast--5792496/support.

In this espidoe of The Wholehearted West Coast Living Podcast, Brittani is joined by Michael Brown, MSW Candidate, for a deep exploration of personal growth, shadow work, and the transformative journey of evolution.The episode begins by diving into a breakdown of a clip from Lauryn Hill's unplugged performance, serving as a catalyst for discussing Zones of Growth and shadow work. Michael, a soon-to-be MSW graduate and avid hip-hop enthusiast, joins Brittani in unraveling the profound insights embedded within the performance and its connection to their own journeys.

The hosts share their personal connections to the clip and its relevance to their paths of self-discovery. Through candid points, they delve into the transformative power of evolving beyond survival mode and the challenges of expressing oneself authentically. Michael and Brittani discuss how evolving and changing can lead to shifts in relationships and the need to reintroduce oneself to others, all while not taking their responses personally. Drawing from their experiences, the hosts link the clip's themes to therapeutic concepts.

They dissect two pivotal tools for understanding growth and healing: Zones of Growth and Shadow Work. Zones of Growth, comprising Comfort Zone, Fear Zone, Learning Zone, and Growth Zone, are illuminated as pathways to personal evolution. This concept intertwines with the clip's message, highlighting Lauryn Hill's journey through the stages of growth. Additionally, Mike and Brittani dissect the concept of Shadow Work, shedding light on the practice of identifying and embracing repressed aspects of oneself. They reveal how Lauryn Hill's transformation resonates with Shadow Work and the idea of shedding layers that no longer serve one's growth.The discussion progresses to how these themes manifest in various aspects of life, including relationships, family dynamics, friendships, intimate relationships, and even relationship with self. They explore the tension between evolving and maintaining connections, as well as the challenges that arise when growth disrupts established norms.

In a closing segment, Michael and Brittani offer practical tips for listeners to navigate their own journeys of growth and healing. They encourage identifying comfort zones, assessing the growth zones of those around them, and nurturing self-compassion in the face of the non-linear healing process. The importance of a mindful mental diet is emphasized, where consuming positive and enriching content aids in the transformative journey.

Thank you for tuning in to another episode of the Wholehearted West Coast Living Podcast. We hope today's conversation left you feeling connected and empowered. To stay connected with us, don't forget to hit that subscribe button on your favorite podcast platform. Also make sure to follow us on our social media platforms for behind-the-scenes content, sneak peeks into upcoming episodes, and engaging discussions find us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter @bwilliamslcsw

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In this captivating episode of the "Wholehearted West Coast Living Podcast," your host Brittani takes you on a journey into the world of Hip Hop culture and its profound connection to personal growth and healing. Recorded at a Riverside studio, the episode features an insightful conversation with the inspiring Michael Arrington.The episode kicks off with Brittani introducing Mike, a multi-talented individual who wears many hats – from being a husband and father to a doctorate student, professor, and emcee. They share how their paths crossed and delve into Mike's background.The conversation begins by exploring the merging of two generations within Hip Hop culture. Despite the generational differences, the essence of Hip Hop remains a unifying force that resonates across time.Together, Brittani and Mike embark on defining Hip Hop culture through the words of KRS ONE: "Hip is to know, it’s a form of intelligence. To be hip is to be updated and relevant. Hop is a form of movement, you can't just observe a hop, you gotta hop up and do it." They break down the core elements that make up Hip Hop: MCing, DJing, breakdancing, graffiti, knowledge, beatboxing, street fashion, language, and entrepreneurship etc.The conversation transitions into exploring the concept of Knowledge of Self, both from a clinical and a Hip Hop perspective. They discuss the significance of understanding one's history, being aware of contemporary forms of oppression, and the components of self-concept, self-esteem, and self-confidence.Sharing their personal experiences growing up within Hip Hop culture, Brittani and Mike delve into how this culture played a pivotal role in shaping their identities. They discuss how Knowledge of Self is a critical aspect of Hip Hop, contributing to its healing and therapeutic potential.Brittani and Mike conclude the episode by reflecting on the artists who have taught them the most about themselves. They sum up the discussion, highlighting the central theme of the episode: Healing through Hip Hop Culture and its profound connection to self-knowledge. As they emphasize, culture evolves, just as individuals do, and our core beliefs are deeply intertwined with our life experiences.Tune in to this dope episode as Brittani and Mike bring you an engaging dialogue about how Hip Hop culture and the pursuit of self-awareness intersect, offering insights into personal transformation, healing, and the power of authentic self-expression.

Thank you for tuning in to another episode of the Wholehearted West Coast Living Podcast. We hope today's conversation left you feeling connected and empowered. To stay connected with us, don't forget to hit that subscribe button on your favorite podcast platform. Also make sure to follow us on our social media platforms for behind-the-scenes content, sneak peeks into upcoming episodes, and engaging discussions find us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter @bwilliamslcsw







Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wholehearted-west-coast-living-podcast--5792496/support.

Join us in this heartfelt episode of the Wholehearted West Coast Living Podcast as we explore the transformative power of vulnerability and friendship with Esmeralda Zaragoza-Estrada, ASW. The episode begins with an introspective look at how Esme and Brittani met and the powerful connection they've fostered over the years. From shared visions and goals in motherhood to navigating the challenging landscape of MSW graduate school, their journey has led them to the world of being private practice mental health therapist.

Through the lens of the Kota the Friend's track "fear," the hosts delve into the theme of healing through vulnerability. They unpack how this powerful song resonates with their personal and professional experiences. Esme bravely shares her own journey of leaving a full-time job to embark on the path of private practice. As the conversation unfolds, Brittani and Esme reflect on their joint journey in the field of mental health. They candidly discuss the lessons they've learned, the growth they've experienced, and the challenges they've overcome together. Their shared wisdom highlights the invaluable support and insights that true friendship can bring to personal and professional development.

Esme's leap into private practice becomes a focal point of inspiration, as she recounts the fears and triumphs that accompanied her decision. This courageous step embodies the healing power of vulnerability, as Esme found strength in embracing her true aspirations and taking bold action. The episode concludes with a deep appreciation for the power of vulnerability and the transformation it can bring to both individual lives and the fabric of friendship. Esme and Brittani express gratitude for the lessons they've learned together and the shared growth they've witnessed. Tune in to this enlightening episode as they explore the beautiful journey of healing, growth, and friendship.








Thank you for tuning in to another episode of the Wholehearted West Coast Living Podcast. We hope today's conversation left you feeling connected and empowered. To stay connected with us, don't forget to hit that subscribe button on your favorite podcast platform. Also make sure to follow us on our social media platforms for behind-the-scenes content, sneak peeks into upcoming episodes, and engaging discussions find us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter @bwilliamslcsw

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wholehearted-west-coast-living-podcast--5792496/support.

In the latest episode of The Wholehearted West Coast Living Podcast, listeners are invited to join the host, Brittani Williams, a licensed Mental Health Therapist, Social Work Entrepreneur, Educator, mother of three, and life long student of Hip-Hop Culture as she offers an intimate glimpse into her personal journey and the profound experiences that have shaped her into the person she is today. Brittani takes her audience on a captivating voyage through her past, present, and the transformative points that have marked her path. With the overarching theme centered around the impact of core beliefs and her dynamic relationship with public education and higher learning, this episode unfolds as a compelling narrative of growth and resilience.

Transporting listeners back to the 90s, Brittani shares her roots in Rowland Heights, a town situated just 30 minutes east of the vibrant city of Los Angeles. Nestled between Orange County and San Bernardino County, Rowland Heights emerges as the backdrop of her formative years. As the only girl with two brothers, Brittani's close ties with her family, especially her grandmother, become pivotal aspects of her early life. As the episode progresses, Brittani delves into the transformative power of education. She recounts her public education journey, high school experiences, and her inaugural exposure to Hip Hop culture at her first live Hip Hop show.

Mt. Sac Professor Jake Wilson, enters the narrative, bringing a deeper dimension to her academic trajectory. The episode unfolds to capture Brittani's academic pursuits at the prestigious USC, where her passion for Hip Hop intersects seamlessly with her educational path. The harmony between these two worlds contributes to shaping her identity and molding her ambitions.

Listeners are taken through her graduate school journey and her goal to merge Hip Hop Culture and Mental Health, her immersion in the realm of community mental health, and her journey as an entrepreneur in the field. Amidst her story, Brittani imparts valuable takeaways about the indelible impact educators have on young minds. She candidly shares how a teacher's words can either shatter or resurrect a student's belief in themselves, underscoring the lasting implications of these encounters.

This episode resonates as a testament to the power of belief, resilience, and transformation. Through her story, Brittani Williams invites listeners to reflect on their own journeys, finding inspiration in the evolution that comes from embracing core beliefs and navigating the educational landscape. Tune in for an episode that bridges personal narrative, growth, and the enduring impact of education and mental health in shaping lives.


Thank you for tuning in to another episode of the Wholehearted West Coast Living Podcast. We hope today's conversation left you feeling connected and empowered. To stay connected with us, don't forget to hit that subscribe button on your favorite podcast platform. Also make sure to follow us on our social media platforms for behind-the-scenes content, sneak peeks into upcoming episodes, and engaging discussions find us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter @bwilliamslcsw

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wholehearted-west-coast-living-podcast--5792496/support.

Brittani Williams is finally bringing a podcast to life in Wholehearted West Coast Living. This video is an introduction to what viewers and listeners can expect to find when tuning in to WWCL podcast. Born and raised in Southern California, with little to no knowledge or access to mental health resources, Brittani plans to describe how people can and have used Hip-hop, as well as other forms of art and culture to find healing. With a goal to normalize therapy that represents the whole person/client, and affirms not only their mental health and wellness but also has an understanding of cultural/gender/societal identities.
This podcast is not going to be therapy101 as you think you know it, but rather a liberated space geared toward having real conversations addressing the life we are living in today the best we can.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wholehearted-west-coast-living-podcast--5792496/support.