From Sesame Street to Safe Spaces: Darnell Lamont Walker on Grief, Mental Health & Storytelling

Darnell Lamont Walker is an Emmy nominated writer, filmmaker, and death doula whose storytelling spans continents, genres, and generations.

He’s written for children’s shows like Karma’s World, Blues Clues & You, and Rubble & Crew — using imagination and heart to help young people understand life’s biggest lessons. But behind the scenes, Darnell has also answered a deeper calling: guiding others through grief, loss, and healing.

On this episode of the For Good podcast, Joseph "JoJo" Simmons sits down with Darnell for a powerful conversation about what it means to create safe spaces — especially for Black men and children — through storytelling, vulnerability, and community care. From the creative breakthroughs of the Sesame Workshop Writers Room to his deeply personal work as a death doula, Darnell opens up about how loss shaped his mission, and why his upcoming book Never Can Say Goodbye is his most meaningful work yet.

Together, they explore: How kids’ shows can introduce emotional literacy in accessible, joyful ways What it means to be a death doula — and how the role helps people live more fully Why safe spaces and creative courage are essential for Black mental health The importance of community, self-care, and the audacity to keep going This one’s for anyone navigating loss, chasing creative freedom, or building softer worlds for the next generation.

Follow Darnell’s journey at: https://www.darnellwalker.com/ Instagram: [@hello.darnell](https://www.instagram.com/hello.darnell/)

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