Tarek Tohme joins Maurice Benard to discuss grief, mental health, Michael Jackson, and MMA. In this full episode of State of Mind, the filmmaker, actor, producer, and writer reflects on growing up shy and emotionally guarded, the emotional education many young people never receive, and the pressure he encountered in Hollywood. Tarek also opens up about losing two close friends, shares personal memories of Michael Jackson and the media attention his family experienced after Jackson’s death, and explains why stepping into the cage became a grounding practice in his own life.
The conversation also returns to Hold On, the film that brought Maurice and Tarek together, as Maurice describes acting through anxiety and Tarek reflects on compassionate leadership on high-pressure sets. From the childhood metaphor of being “a lock” to the contrast between a career roadmap and an emotional roadmap, the episode centers self-expression, resilience, grief, and the discipline that helped Tarek feel grounded.
Disclaimer: This program is intended strictly for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It does not constitute formal medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or mental health treatment protocols.
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State of Mind Production Team:
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Executive Producer: Paula Benard
Director of Production & Video: Anthony Cammarata
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Audio Consultant: Ken Wendt
