Story & Lesson Highlights with Tamara Dopwell of Flatbush

Tamara Dopwell shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Tamara, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
I think everyone is struggling with their emotions and mental health on some level.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
At Designs by Tee and Let’s Talk About It Inc., we believe that healing begins with conversation—and action. Our mission is to center mental health and wellness in every space: schools, shelters, agencies, workplaces, and homes. Through affirming, conversation-starting apparel and impactful consulting, we are cultivating emotionally safer environments across public and private sectors.

Families are struggling. Employees are burned out. The data tells us what we already feel—something has to change. That’s where we come in.

Let’s Talk About It Inc. provides trauma-informed staff training, strategic planning, and consulting to help organizations prioritize mental wellness as an operational core, not an afterthought. Designs by Tee expands this reach by putting messages of resilience and hope into the hands (and closets) of everyday people. Together, our work is not only branding — it’s a movement for mental wellness that’s visible, actionable, and sustainable.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I believe that unspoken Pain. When wounds go unaddressed, silence grows louder than connection. Restoration begins when we have Hope. When we believe that we can heal, this is where it starts. Yes, even if we’re still hurting.

When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
I used to hide it behind my smile, behind my silence, behind my strength. But everything changed when I walked into that therapy room. That’s when the healing began. That’s when the pain turned into purpose.
That’s when I started living out loud. I started my training and consulting firm to bring that same healing to public external spaces. Not everyone will voluntarily go to therapy, but we can bring the skills, mindset and strategies so they feel comfortable to take that next step. Support is a verb!

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
Mental Health and healing. Whether it’s in individual session, a digital product, a t-shirt or an entire employee staff development curriculum, I am committed to increasing access to mental health.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What will you regret not doing? 
Finishing the assignment I have been tasked with. If I quit millions may not experience emotional freedom and liberty.

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