Today we’d like to introduce you to Diamond Holts.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
At 23, I am a fierce advocate for mental health and sexual assault survivors. My journey took an unexpected turn when, at 21, I became a victim of sexual assault, resulting in a diagnosis of depression, insomnia, and severe anxiety.
Rather than succumbing to the weight of my experiences, I found resilience in my pain. Channeling my voice through podcasting, I embarked on a mission to empower others, spreading the crucial message that healing is a journey, not a destination, and that self-compassion is paramount.
My podcast became my platform to challenge the stigma surrounding sexual assault and mental health, to remind others that they are not alone and that healing is a journey marked by self-compassion and patience. Through my advocacy work, I strive to amplify the voices of the unheard to create a community of support and understanding for those who have faced similar struggles.
As I navigate my own healing process, I’ve discovered the transformative power of vulnerability and resilience. Every episode, every conversation, is a step towards reclaiming my voice and empowering others to do the same. My journey is a testament to the strength that lies within us all, even in the darkest of times.
Through advocacy, I’ve found purpose and meaning, turning my pain into a beacon of hope for those who may be walking a similar path. My story is a testament to the transformative power of vulnerability and advocacy.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
My journey has been far from smooth; it’s been a tumultuous path riddled with deep valleys and towering mountains. The pivotal moment came at 21 when I was brutally assaulted, a trauma that shattered my sense of safety and left me reeling in its aftermath.
But the impact didn’t end there; it echoed in the form of mental illnesses diagnosed soon after – depression, insomnia, and severe anxiety. These challenges weren’t mere bumps in the road; they were monstrous obstacles threatening to engulf me entirely. Each day felt like a battle against an invisible force, a struggle to find footing in the midst of chaos.
Yet, amidst the darkness, a flicker of resilience emerged, urging me to push forward, to cling to hope even when it felt impossible. My journey has been marked by adversity, but it’s also been defined by the unwavering determination to rise above it.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a podcaster and an advocate. As a podcaster and advocate, I take immense pride in providing a platform for others to share their stories and experiences openly. It’s incredibly rewarding to see listeners connect with these narratives, finding solace and strength in the shared struggles of others. I believe what sets me apart is my unwavering commitment to amplifying the voices of the unheard. I strive to create a space where marginalized perspectives are not only acknowledged but celebrated.
My work is driven by empathy and a deep understanding of the importance of representation in fostering a sense of community and healing. I’m most proud of the impact my platform has had in sparking conversations and promoting empathy, ultimately fostering a more inclusive and supportive society.
How do you think about luck?
Luck has played a significant role in both my personal journey and my work as a podcaster and advocate. On one hand, the unfortunate event of experiencing sexual assault could be seen as bad luck, as it brought immense pain and hardship into my life.
However, it was also a catalyst for my advocacy work, prompting me to use my platform to bring attention to important issues such as mental health and sexual assault awareness. In this sense, it could be considered a stroke of good luck, as it propelled me into a position where I could make a positive impact and support others who have faced similar challenges.
In my podcasting and advocacy endeavors, luck often manifests in the form of opportunities and connections. Securing interviews with influential guests or having impactful conversations with listeners can sometimes feel like strokes of good luck, opening doors for further collaboration and outreach.
However, luck alone is not enough to sustain a successful podcast or advocacy initiative. It requires dedication, hard work, and a genuine passion for the cause. Luck may provide opportunities, but it’s what I do with those opportunities that truly determines the impact I can make in my community and beyond.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/baddiemens
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allthingsdi_/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Baddies-Mens-Therapy/61554758647042/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@allthingsdii
Image Credits
Jordan Lee
