WOWW The Podcast cover art

WOWW The Podcast

WOWW The Podcast

Written by: Jaquell Bates
Listen for free

About this listen

Welcome to the WOW Podcast, where we explore the intersections of health, body, mind, and spirit with your host, Jaquel. In this heart-centered space, we prioritize the importance of mental health, especially in relation to the grieving process. Each episode is designed to provide education, empowerment, and support for those navigating the complexities of loss and emotional well-being. Jaquel shares her personal journey of grieving the tragic loss of her husband, opening up about the raw emotions and challenges that come with such profound loss. She delves into the universal experience of grief, encouraging listeners to validate their feelings and seek the support they need. Through insightful discussions, expert guests, and real-life stories, the WOW Podcast aims to foster open conversations about mental health and bereavement, emphasizing that no one is alone in their struggles. Join Jaquel as she guides you toward healing, understanding, and the resources that can help transform your journey through grief. Together, we can learn to navigate the path forward with hope and resilience. Tune in and take the first step on this vital journey of self-discovery and recovery.Copyright TDR Podcasting Network Hygiene & Healthy Living Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Self-Help Social Sciences Success
Episodes
  • Unpacking Guilt, Grief, and the Reality of Homelessness (Part 3)
    35 mins
  • Unpacking Guilt, Grief, and the Reality of Homelessness (Part 2)
    26 mins
  • Unpacking Guilt, Grief and the Reality of Homelessness (Part 1)
    Sep 29 2025
    Host Jaquel welcomes her guest and best friend, Miss Akira Westlake, for a deep dive into the intersection of mental health, grieving, and the homeless population. This episode shifts the focus from anger to the often-unaddressed emotion of guilt within the grieving process. What You'll Hear: Meet Akira Westlake: Hear from an amazing woman, entrepreneur, and mentor who has dedicated nearly twenty years to working with the homeless community, especially in Milwaukee County. She shares what drew her to this work, starting with her childhood experiences. Mental Health as the Barrier: The conversation highlights that the biggest challenge in housing the homeless is often mental health, as many individuals are hopeless or lack the belief that they can successfully transition to housing. The Struggle with Isolation: Jaquel and Akira discuss the heartbreaking reality of separating individuals from their "chosen family" and the community they built on the streets, which often leads to relapse into homelessness. Grief in Homelessness: The hosts argue that society often excludes the homeless from grieving. They explore the concept that being housed may not feel "normal" for those who have created a life on the streets, leading them to sleep on floors or never truly settle into their new homes. Jaquel's Truth: In a moment of raw transparency, Jaquel shares her personal experience with being technically homeless while leaving a domestic violence situation and struggling with depression. She opens up about the pride and manipulation she used to hide the fact that she and her child had no place to sleep. Encouragement for Direct Service Workers: Akira closes Part 1 with a powerful message for those working in direct service housing, urging them to prioritize their own well-being and not let the work overwhelm them. We're all one paycheck away. Don't miss this powerful first half of a necessary conversation! Stay tuned for Part 2!
    Show More Show Less
    31 mins
No reviews yet