This month, we’re centering the full spectrum of Black Motherhood—and this episode makes it clear: some of the most transformative mothering doesn’t begin with biology. It begins with presence.
As part of our special April series for National Black Girl Month™, Dr. Rikesha Fry Brown and I are joined by Dr. Brooke Jones—licensed psychologist, founder of Fresh Start for the Mind, and adoptive mother—for a conversation that redefines what it means to mother.
Together, we honor the caregivers whose stories often go untold: the aunties, godmothers, mentors, and grandmothers who shape futures, hold space, and quietly carry generations. Dr. Brooke shares her personal journey through infertility, adoption, and parenting, as well as the emotional labor she witnesses every day in her clinical practice.
This episode asks:
What does it mean to mother a child you didn’t birth?
How do we affirm women who are doing the sacred work of raising children and communities without recognition?
And what would it look like if we measured motherhood not by origin—but by impact?
If you’ve ever stood in the gap for someone else’s child… if you’ve ever mothered from the sidelines or behind the scenes… this conversation is for you. Listen now as we continue National Black Girl Month™ by honoring motherhood in every form it takes. Connect with Dr. Brooke Jones: www.freshstartmind.com Get Your National Black Girl Month™ Toolkit: www.nationalblackgirlmonth.com Join Momentum Lab: https://lab.feliciafordandco.com Connect with Felicia: www.threads.net/@friendscallmefe
More about Dr. Brooke Jones In 2013, Dr. Jones branched out on her own to open Fresh Start for the Mind. She wanted a practice that incorporated the mind, body, and spirit. Her love for psychological evaluations became evident in the surrounding communities. As referrals grew, so did Fresh Start. Dr. Jones first hired an additional psychologist (to support the numerous evaluation referrals) and counselors (to support an additional need for children, adults, couples, and families in the community). Then, Dr. Jones built administrative support, along with more providers that also offered psychiatric treatment, nutrition services, counseling, and coaching. In 2016, the company relocated to Suwanee and opened two additional locations in Stockbridge and Canton. Fresh Start is now comprised of over 30 staff, offering psychological evaluations, psychiatric care / medication management, counseling and coaching, and nutrition support. The growth of Fresh Start has been a journey. Dr. Jones has seen the needs for mental health grow in Georgia since starting her career. She is most proud of the people who work within the company and the difference they make in lives every day! She credits her faith as the driver for every growth opportunity and every expansion thus far; she values family and divine connections for encouraging her growth while also keeping her grounded; and she honors her own passion and optimism for people and humanity. For more information regarding Dr. Jones and Fresh Start for the Mind, visit www.freshstartmind.com. #NationalBlackGirlMonth #BlackMotherhood #Mom #Adoption #FosterCare
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