No judgment, just support. Whatever you're feeling, we're here for you, bro.
✊🏽
No judgment, just support. Whatever you're feeling, we're here for you, bro. ✊🏽
In this special episode of The Jury’s Out, the team dives deep into one of New York City’s most unique opportunities for changemakers — The David Prize — a $200,000, no-strings-attached award for visionary New Yorkers shaping the future of the city.
Joined by Gina Fuchs, Director of The David Prize, and Barry Cooper, one of the 2025 winners and founder of The Bro Experience Foundation, we break down every stage of the application process from the initial idea to the final interview with the Wendes family.
If you’ve ever wanted to apply for The David Prize or understand what makes a winning idea, this episode is your definitive guide. Learn what the judges look for, what the stages actually entail, and how to make your story stand out.
Cooper joined us to discuss his own adolescence growing up in the Bedford Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn, and how his first early career as a barber informed his approach with the BRO Experience. We also talked about a new short documentary about the organization and what he plans to do with the $200,000 that comes with the David Prize.
From the Barber’s Chair to the BRO Experience, with Barry Cooper
Join Trent and Isaac in this powerful short documentary as they open up about their emotional journeys and the support they’ve received through the BRO Experience Foundation. Through honest conversations about their challenges and growth, they offer a real look at what it means to build toward a healthier and more hopeful future.
The film also features expert insights into Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) from Sophia Morel, Dr. Torian Easterling, and Barry Cooper, providing deeper context into the therapeutic approach that guides our work.
The BRO Experience: We All Deserve to Be Well
Congratulations to our Executive Director, Barry Cooper!
We’re proud to celebrate Barry’s recognition as a 2025 DAVID PRIZE winner. His leadership and vision continue to inspire our community and push forward the mission of Be Well Bro.
-
The David Prize is a celebration of New Yorkers with ideas for extraordinary change. We believe that New York City’s best and biggest resource is its people and that New Yorkers who are proximate to the City’s greatest challenges will build the best solutions. Open to any individual working in the five boroughs, the Prize welcomes those with the vision and conviction to change our communities, our culture, and our future for good.
-
Executive Director
Barry’s vision has always been clear: to be authentic, bold, and brave in creating spaces where men can truly be well. Through his leadership, Be Well Bro was born, not just as a platform to discuss the importance of cognitive behavioral therapy, but as a living movement that embraces the seven dimensions of wellness while staying deeply rooted in culture.
This recognition celebrates more than an achievement. It’s a testament to Barry’s unwavering belief that wellness is not a privilege, but a right that every brother deserves a community where healing, growth, and culture intersect.
From today forward, let us all Be Well.
BE WELL BRO IS WHERE YOUNG MEN AND MEN OF COLOR WORLDWIDE COME TO LEVEL UP WITH:
🧘🏽♂️ MINDFULNESS,
📖 RESOURCES,
AND 🫱🏽🫲🏽 THE COMMUNITY.
Check out the freshest wellness tips, real-life stories, and latest advice to keep your mind and vibe right.
The Color of Innocence: Reclaiming Black Childhood Through the Art of Guy Stanley Philoche
🕒 2 min read
LaRussell: The Healing We Didn’t Know We Needed
🕒 2 min read
THE “DISRUPTOR” You Need to Know: Say Hello to Shahem McLaurin
🕒 2 min read
WOYMB?
Check out this month’s prompt, sit with it for a minute, and figure out your take. Then, explore the provided reading or video to get your mind right and push through whatever’s in your way.
! Disclaimer: The Monthly Reflection section is designed for personal growth and self-exploration. It is not intended to replace professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
“A challenge I’m facing right now is...”
This Month’s Reflection
No judgment, just support. Whatever you're feeling, we're here for you, bro.
✊🏽
No judgment, just support. Whatever you're feeling, we're here for you, bro. ✊🏽
UPCOMING EVENTS
Don't miss out on the exciting upcoming events hosted by the B.R.O. Experience Foundation and organizations all around the nation.
The B.R.O. Experience Upcoming Events
Note: If no events are listed above, there are currently no upcoming events from The B.R.O. Experience. Please check back soon!
SIT BACK. RELAX. WATCH.
Relax and tune in—this is your hub for mindfulness, music, interviews, workshops, and more. From stress relief techniques to inspiring conversations, find what keeps you grounded and uplifted.
Black Dads Discuss the Lessons from Fatherhood
Press Play & Lock In Bro🎧
Our Playlist for You!
Whatever you're feeling, from joy to frustration, our playlists offer a sonic companion to help you navigate your emotions. Join our community and stay tuned for future audio discussions.
Check out Community Corners to see what our partners are up to, with updates and highlights on the programs making a difference in the community.
The David Prize is a celebration of New Yorkers with ideas for extraordinary change. We believe that New York City’s best and biggest resource is its people and that New Yorkers who are proximate to the City’s greatest challenges will build the best solutions. Open to any individual working in the five boroughs, the Prize welcomes those with the vision and conviction to change our communities, our culture, and our future for good.
THE DAVID PRIZE
Brooklyn Org is a platform and partner for local philanthropy, bringing together Brooklynites to become champions for change.
Brooklyn Org
Stephanie Schiavenato
Stephanie Schiavenato is the founder of a doula company that provides ongoing, non-judgmental support throughout the birthing process. She also shares valuable tips and resources for fathers, empowering them to play an active role in their family's journey.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
-
Crisis Hotlines
A list of hotline services that offers immediate, confidential support from professionals, available 24/7 for guidance and care.
-
Community Services
Free/low-cost therapy and community-driven initiatives tailored for young Black men and communities of color.
-
Wellness Apps
Recommended apps and platforms that provide guided meditations, mindfulness exercises, and relaxation techniques.
-
Support Groups
Online and in-person support groups, focusing on men’s mental health, grief, addiction, or specific cultural issues.
Coming Soon!
-
Books & Podcasts
A curated list of empowering books and podcasts that focus on mental health, self-care, and personal growth.
-
Downloadables
Free downloadable resources, such as mental health guides, self-care checklists, and tips for managing anxiety or stress.
Coming Soon!
What Do You Need?
Looking for support or resources? Browse our categories to find helpful tools, tips, and information. Whether you're seeking guidance on mental health, self-care, or community support, we got you.
-
Mindfulness & Meditation (coming soon)
-
-
What’s On Your Mind, Bro? (coming soon)
Support/Peer Groups (coming soon)
STAY CONNECTED. WE GOT MORE FOR YOU.
Drop your email to stay in the loop with the latest news, updates, events, and more.
Need to contact us?
Shoot us an email and we will get right back to you as soon as we can!
Press releases and assets available here
© 2025 The BRO Experience Foundation | Our Policies & Disclaimers
Stock Imagery by Freepik.com and Unsplash.com
