Episode 30: Mentors Matter - Nala Barlow’s Story of Resilience and Hope
Nala Barlow on Breaking Cycles, Finding Belonging, and Transforming Through Love
In this episode of What I Know Now, brought to you by The Delta Project, host Cole Williams sits down with Nala Barlow, a clinical mental health professional working in a juvenile detention center. Nala Barlow shares her remarkable journey from a childhood marked by instability, homelessness, and parentification to becoming a beacon of hope for youth in crisis.
With honesty and vulnerability, Nala Barlow discusses the impact of growing up in a household defined by addiction and undiagnosed mental health struggles. She highlights the critical importance of compassionate adults and mentors—like her grandfather and supportive coaches—who helped her navigate life’s challenges, encouraging listeners to look beyond labels and understand the stories behind troubled behavior.
This episode explores:
Breaking Cycles: Nala Barlow’s decision to carve a new path beyond the chaos she grew up in, refusing to carry forward cycles of pain.
The Power of Belonging and Safe Spaces: How finding supportive communities in Georgia and later through sports and mentorship in Detroit helped her rebuild her sense of self-worth and purpose.
The Role of Education: How a focus on academics and athletics, pushed by caring adults, opened doors to higher education and broader opportunities for growth.
Transforming Trauma into Purpose: Nala Barlow’s pivotal experience on a mission trip, realizing her calling to support and guide kids with experiences like her own.
Why Relationships Matter: A call to action for adults and communities to see, hear, and love kids for who they are—not just what they do—showing that love and understanding are the foundations for real change.
Her story is not just one of survival, but of transformation, offering insights for families, educators, and anyone seeking to support youth impacted by trauma and the justice system.
Key takeaway: Nala Barlow reminds listeners that “kids need to be loved for more than what they do—they need to be loved simply for existing.” Tune in to hear Nala Barlow’s inspiring perspective on breaking through hardship, the healing power of consistent relationships, and why unconditional love is the most powerful tool for change.
Find this episode and more human stories and resources at The Delta Project. Follow us on Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts for more conversations that matter.
