In this special episode of For Your Health, Dr. Ronda Marie Chakolis-Hassan welcomes back Sam Simmonsโlicensed therapist, visionary, and founder of the Black Men Healing Conference, now in its 17th year.
This yearโs theme centers on Black fatherhoodโnot just as a role, but as a healing force within families and communities. Sam shares the deeply personal story behind the conferenceโs origins, sparked by an argument that revealed how personal responsibility and systemic injustice must both be addressed when healing Black men.
Together, they explore:
- How male trauma manifests in communities
- Why emotional connectionโnot just provisionโis essential in parenting
- The cultural roots of parenting in fear and punishment
- Co-parenting obstacles, healing intergenerational wounds, and affirming the role of fathers in childrenโs lives
- Why terms like โbaby mamaโ and โbaby daddyโ undermine dignity
- How this conference includes allโmothers, allies, non-Black attendeesโin the healing journey
Speakers for 2025 include:
- Anton Johnson โ Keynote on fatherhood and prenatal care
- Dr. Nathan Chomilo โ Health equity and inclusive care
- Alicia Price โ Co-parenting advocate and author
From historical trauma to real-world healing practices, this is a raw, revealing, and affirming conversation on what it takes to build safe, connected families. Whether youโre a father, practitioner, or allyโthis is one to watch and share.
Learn more at: www.brothershealing.com

