E35 | Breaking the Cycle: How Fathers Shape the Mental Health of Black Boys | Dr. Alvin Thomas

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Are we truly supporting Black boys emotionally — or just expecting them to be “strong”? Psychologist and researcher Dr. Alvin Thomas joins Joseph “JoJo” Simmons on the For Good Podcast to unpack the mental health crisis impacting young Black men, the critical role fathers play, and how we can break generational cycles before it’s too late.

Dr. Alvin Thomas, nationally recognized psychologist and leading expert on Black fatherhood and youth development, joins Joseph “JoJo” Simmons on the For Good Podcast for a powerful and solution-focused conversation about the emotional well-being of Black boys.

In this episode, Dr. Thomas challenges the idea that strength means silence. He explains how emotional suppression, lack of safe spaces, and generational trauma are quietly shaping the lives of young Black men — and what fathers, parents, and communities must do differently.

JoJo opens up about his own experiences as a father, leading to an honest dialogue about vulnerability, discipline, and how to raise boys who are confident, emotionally intelligent, and secure in who they are.

They dive into: The silent mental health crisis impacting Black boys Why emotionally present fathers change everything How generational trauma shows up in parenting Practical tools for raising resilient, confident young men Breaking harmful stereotypes around masculinity

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