In a thought-provoking episode #89 of the "Mental Health Today" podcast, host Ken Stearns engages in a compelling and insightful conversation with Jessica Atchley, the founder of Mindful Recruiting. This episode offers a unique glimpse into Jessica's remarkable journey into the behavioral health and mental health industry. Her decision to enter this field was deeply personal, driven by her family's history of substance use and mental health challenges. This personal connection has fueled her passion for helping others and finding the right individuals to fill crucial roles within the industry.With over a decade of experience in healthcare marketing and admissions, Jessica brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. She highlights the critical role that staff members play in a patient's treatment journey and emphasizes the profound impact a caring and skilled professional can have on someone seeking help.The episode also delves into the rapidly evolving landscape of mental health recruitment, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Jessica discusses how the pandemic has brought mental health to the forefront of public consciousness, making it a mainstream topic of conversation. This, in turn, has led to an influx of passionate and empathetic individuals, especially young therapists, into the field.Furthermore, the conversation touches on the changing dynamics of therapists opting for self-employment and telehealth practices. Jessica addresses the challenges they face, such as the business aspects of private practice and the need to find a sustainable patient base. Throughout the episode, Jessica's unwavering commitment to helping individuals find fulfilling careers in mental health shines through, highlighting the ongoing importance of addressing the growing mental health crisis and ensuring that compassionate and skilled professionals are readily available to those in need. For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:Website:      https://www.mhtpodcast.comYoutube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2sLinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=trueMental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.

In the captivating episode #88 of "Mental Health Today," Ken Stearns engages in a profound conversation with Sharon Rolph, a renowned retirement coach who brings a fresh and much-needed perspective to the mental health concerns of the aging population. Sharon, with her rich background and empathetic approach, emerges as a beacon of hope and guidance for those navigating the often-overlooked mental health challenges of retirement and aging. Ken begins the episode by sharing his own enlightening experiences from traveling across the United States for his other podcast, The Jar. He reflects on the diverse mental health struggles and triumphs he's witnessed, setting the stage for a deep dive into the mental health landscape of maturing communities. Sharon Rolph, with her vibrant energy and insightful wisdom, takes center stage as she eloquently unfolds the complexities faced by seniors in today's society. She brings to light the critical issue of mental health in the aging population, a topic often overshadowed in mainstream discussions. Sharon's expertise shines as she articulates the nuances of retirement - a phase that, while often idealized, can lead to feelings of isolation, boredom, and a loss of purpose. Drawing on her diverse experiences, including a significant tenure at Boeing and her time as a Lyft driver, Sharon offers a kaleidoscope of perspectives on the psychological impact of retirement. She talks about the startling myth she encountered at Boeing, where it was believed that employees often die within three years of retiring. This myth, rooted in the loss of identity and purpose post-retirement, spurred Sharon to delve deeper into the psychology of retired life. Throughout the conversation, Sharon emphasizes the importance of staying mentally and socially active. She discusses how retirees often struggle with the sudden lack of structure and purpose after leaving their careers. The conversation takes an interesting turn as Sharon delves into her personal journey, revealing how she broke away from a vow of invisibility made in her youth to become a visible, impactful coach helping others find their essence and purpose. Sharon's approach to retirement coaching is holistic and empowering. She doesn't just focus on the financial aspects of retirement but delves into the emotional and psychological preparation needed for this significant life transition. Her methodology is about discovering and nurturing a new sense of purpose, building community, and fostering mental strength. One of the most compelling parts of the episode is when Sharon discusses the concept of controlling one's thoughts to control one's life. She shares powerful personal anecdotes and strategies, such as recalling warm memories before challenging situations to improve mental strength and outlook. Ken and Sharon also explore the resources available for retirees, discussing initiatives like AARP's Purpose Prize and the importance of community involvement and charity work in finding fulfillment. Sharon's passion and dedication to empowering retirees shine through as she talks about her book, "Fresh Courage in Retirement," and her mission to help people find joy, purpose, and vitality in their later years. The episode concludes with a powerful message about the importance of aligning one's values with actions, especially in retirement. Sharon's transformative journey from feeling invisible to becoming a guiding light for many is not just inspiring but a testament to the power of resilience and purpose at any age. Her star quality as a coach and speaker is undeniable, leaving listeners with a renewed perspective on aging and mental health. For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:Website:      https://www.mhtpodcast.comYoutube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2sLinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=trueMental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.

In the 87th episode of "Mental Health Today," host Ken Stearns engages in a thoughtful dialogue with Mark DeFee, a seasoned therapist and corporate wellness warrior, focusing on the increasingly pertinent issue of mental health in the workplace. The episode begins with Ken reflecting on his recent encounters with high-performing athletes and ties in these experiences with the broader theme of mental health.Mark, drawing from his 20 years of experience in corporate wellness, sheds light on the prevalent issue of employee burnout. He articulates the critical need for companies to foster a culture that not only recognizes but actively supports mental health. The discussion underscores that in today’s work environment, mental health is no longer a peripheral issue but a central component of daily conversations and corporate strategy.One of the key insights shared by Mark is the symbiotic relationship between employee wellness and company success. He presents compelling data that supports the connection between a workforce's mental well-being and the overall performance of an organization. This part of the discussion highlights how fostering a positive work culture significantly impacts employee productivity and, by extension, the company's success.The conversation then shifts to actionable strategies for building resilience in the workplace. Mark emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy mindset and shares tactics for handling high-stress moments. He also discusses the value of difficult conversations in enhancing relationships, suggesting that before engaging in such dialogues, it's crucial to clarify the message and tone.Ken and Mark also delve into Mark's personal journey, discussing how his experience with epilepsy profoundly influenced his career path and fueled his commitment to mental health advocacy. Mark's story is a testament to turning personal challenges into a driving force for positive change, particularly in how he uses his experiences to empathize with and support others.Towards the end of the episode, the focus turns to Mark's work with organizations, where he designs custom programs and strategies to integrate mental health into their operational fabric. He talks about the "Thrive Again Program," an initiative that offers mental skills bootcamp to companies seeking to dip their toes into mental health strategies.The episode wraps up with Ken expressing admiration for Mark's dedication to transforming workplace cultures and recognizing the importance of mental health. Ken's personal experience in the corporate world and with employee benefit plans adds an extra layer of insight, making the discussion particularly rich and relevant. For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:Website:      https://www.mhtpodcast.comYoutube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2sLinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=trueMental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.

In episode #86 of the "Mental Health Today" podcast, host Ken Stearns interviews Frank King, a comedian and speaker specializing in suicide prevention and mental health advocacy. The interview takes place in Durango, Colorado, and covers various aspects of Frank King's journey and expertise. Here's a long summary of the conversation:The podcast starts with Ken Stearns introducing himself and discussing his previous interviews with interesting guests on mental health topics. He expresses his excitement about having Frank King as a guest and how he reached out to Frank with the hope of having him on the show.Frank King joins the conversation, explaining that he doesn't have his own podcast because he's a comedian and prefers to leave the heavy lifting to others like Ken. He thanks Ken for the opportunity to share his life experiences.Ken and Frank discuss the unique intersection of comedy and mental health advocacy. Frank specializes in comedy related to suicide prevention, which he describes as a sharp-edged field, but also incredibly important. They talk about their current locations, with Ken being in Durango and Frank planning to head to New Mexico.Frank mentions that he has delivered 11 TEDx talks, with 10 already completed and one scheduled for October. He fondly recalls his first TEDx talk in Durango, which received a standing ovation but was not posted on YouTube due to its humorous title, "Mental Health and the Orgasm: Treat Your Depression Single-Handedly."The conversation shifts towards Frank's background and motivation for entering the field of mental health advocacy. Frank initially pursued a career in comedy to make a living and a difference. He struggled to find a meaningful topic to teach until the recession in 2008 hit, and his comedy bookings dropped significantly. Frank and his wife experienced financial hardships, leading him to contemplate suicide.Frank reveals his personal history of mental health issues, including a family history of depression and suicide. His grandmother and great aunt both died by suicide, and he lived with major depressive disorder and chronic suicidal ideation. Frank decided to undergo training and certifications to become a suicide prevention advocate.Ken asks about the challenges Frank faced when transitioning from a comedian to a speaker on serious topics like suicide prevention. Frank explains that he had to overcome skepticism about his ability to address such issues. He credits his wife for suggesting he do a TEDx talk to gain credibility in the field.Frank shares how he successfully transitioned into being a mental health advocate while still incorporating humor into his presentations. He believes that sharing lived experiences and using tasteful humor can effectively convey important messages about mental health and suicide prevention.The conversation takes a lighthearted turn as they discuss comedy and how sensitive people have become in recent years. Frank acknowledges that people sometimes take offense on behalf of others and reflects on the changing landscape of comedy in today's society.Ken asks about the criteria companies use when hiring speakers like Frank. Frank emphasizes the importance of picking a niche and solving a specific problem. He chose to focus on suicide prevention in industries with high suicide rates, such as construction, mining, and agriculture. By specializing in this area, he attracts clients who are already aware of the problem and willing to address it.Frank highlights that his lived experience and expertise in suicide prevention make him a valuable speaker. He provides training and educates various industries on mental health issues, ensuring that his talks are tailored to the specific needs of his audience.The interview concludes with a discussion of the benefits of being a specialist in one field, as it simplifies SEO and marketing efforts. Frank shares that he charges $7,500 for a 45-minute presentation, which reflects his expertise and experience in the niche of suicide prevention.Overall, the interview with Frank King highlights his unique journey from comedy to mental health advocacy and how he has effectively used humor to address serious issues like suicide prevention. His story serves as an inspiration to those looking to make a difference in the world of mental health and public speaking. For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:Website:      https://www.mhtpodcast.comYoutube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2sLinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=trueMental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.

On the Mental Health Today podcast #85, Scott Farber, Chief Executive Officer of Mental Health Partnership, takes listeners on a journey through his life and career, shedding light on his transformative work in the mental health sector.Scott's professional background began in the realm of education, where he gained a profound understanding of the many obstacles individuals face when seeking mental health support. He passionately underscores the paramount issue of access to mental health services, particularly in underserved and remote communities. His vision for Mental Health Partnership is nothing short of groundbreaking: to establish a far-reaching network of practices that collectively offer a comprehensive range of mental health care options. This innovative approach aims to make it substantially easier for individuals to find the right therapist or treatment, thus revolutionizing mental healthcare one community at a time.The conversation with Scott takes a fascinating turn as he delves into the realm of artificial intelligence (AI) in mental health interventions. He underscores the incredible potential of data and technology in shaping effective treatment plans. In his vision of the future, AI will be able to analyze vast datasets, allowing for the delivery of personalized and highly effective mental health recommendations. This, in turn, has the potential to reduce the often lengthy and uncertain trial-and-error approach to treatmentWhat becomes exceptionally clear throughout the discussion is Scott's unwavering passion for making a substantial, positive impact in the mental health field. He firmly believes that through collaboration and the collective efforts of individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences, significant progress can be achieved. Scott's dedication to improving access to mental health services and his drive to propel technology's role in mental healthcare forward are not only commendable but also profoundly inspiring. For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:Website:      https://www.mhtpodcast.comYoutube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2sLinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=trueMental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.

Daniel Weiss Pick and Sonia, investors in startups focused on brain health and mental health, discuss the potential impact of innovation in mental health. They explore investing in psychedelics for therapeutic effects. The podcast also covers the effects of drugs on the brain, the origins of Christmas, and personal journeys with psychedelics for treating depression. They discuss various ways to get involved in supporting mental health and the need for sponsors to continue supporting mental health initiatives.

In this interview with Steven Turetsky, he discusses his current role in the mental health space and his work at a company called Motif Neurotech, which focuses on brain-computer interfaces and deep tech in the mental health industry. Motif is developing nanotechnology that can be implanted just below the scalp, above the brain. This technology performs transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), a treatment commonly used for conditions like treatment-resistant depression. The company's goal is to miniaturize this technology so that it can be used at home rather than requiring clinic visits. Steven is actively involved in helping Motif Neurotech secure funding for its clinical trials.The interview also touches on the technology used in these treatments, emphasizing that it's electromagnetic stimulation and its clinical efficacy. The treatment aims to stimulate various parts of the brain to improve executive functions and help individuals with treatment-resistant depression and other mental health disorders.Steven's journey into the mental health industry stems from a personal experience with the loss of his father to suicide when he was 18. This traumatic experience motivated him to seek ways to make a positive impact in the mental health field. He initially explored the cannabis industry and later transitioned to the CBD side, where he gained insights into the need for individualized treatments and the importance of standardized dosing in mental health therapies.The conversation also delves into the challenges of dosage standardization and the variations in how individuals respond to treatments. Steven highlights the need for personalized treatments that cater to each person's unique needs and tolerances. Furthermore, the discussion explores emerging trends in neuromodulation, non-psychedelic plasticity agents, and the potential benefits of combining different therapeutic approaches to achieve more effective outcomes in mental health treatments. Steven specifically mentions the exciting potential of combining neuromodulation, brain-computer interfaces, and psychedelic therapies to create an additive effect in healing and treatment.Overall, this interview provides insight into the rapidly evolving field of mental health treatments, emphasizing the importance of individualized care, standardized dosing, and innovative combinations of therapies to enhance patient outcomes. For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:Website:      https://www.mhtpodcast.comYoutube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2sLinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=trueMental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.

In this insightful interview with Ricardo Zulueta, he shares his journey into the mental health space and the core principles of his organization, Start Day One. The conversation between Ricardo and the host, Ken, touches on various aspects of mental health and personal development.Ricardo's journey into the mental health field was marked by a personal tragedy, the loss of his brother to suicide. He discusses how this tragedy led him to explore the complex factors that drive people to commit suicide and experience mental health challenges. He emphasizes the importance of understanding that depression, anxiety, and happiness are emotional responses tied to our perspectives rather than our circumstances.Ricardo's organization, Start Day One, is a nonprofit focused on mental health and suicide prevention. It takes a proactive approach, encouraging individuals to shift their perspectives from waiting for "one day" to starting on "day one." The idea is to inspire people to make decisions that lead to better mental health and overall well-being.He highlights the importance of proactive measures in mental health, drawing parallels to dental care and diabetes prevention. Just as one must actively take steps to prevent dental issues or maintain a healthy diet to prevent diabetes, individuals should proactively make decisions that promote good mental health.Ricardo challenges the notion that mental health problems are solely the result of chemical imbalances. He asserts that it's essential to address the root causes of these issues, which often stem from a negative perspective. By changing one's perspective, making decisions, and being accountable, individuals can work towards solutions to their problems.Ken and Ricardo discuss the idea that many physical health problems are intertwined with mental health issues. Stress, for example, can lead to heart attacks and other health challenges. Ricardo stresses the importance of understanding the link between mental and physical health.The conversation delves into the concept of purpose and how it can positively impact mental health. Ricardo emphasizes the idea that a strong purpose benefits not only the individual but also other people. He encourages people to create their purpose and define it as a verb, such as inspiring, empowering, or helping others. Purpose serves as a driving force for motivation and a foundation for building a fulfilling life.Ricardo also addresses the necessity of adversity and challenges in life. He likens life's challenges to levels in a video game, where the difficulty increases as you progress. These challenges create the story of your life, making it more engaging and meaningful. He underscores the importance of changing one's perspective on adversity and viewing it as an essential part of personal growth.In summary, Ricardo Zulueta's interview sheds light on the critical role of perspective and purpose in mental health and personal development. He advocates for a proactive approach to mental health, challenging traditional views on mental illness and emphasizing the significance of individual choices and a strong sense of purpose in shaping a fulfilling life. For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:Website:      https://www.mhtpodcast.comYoutube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2sLinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=trueMental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.

Lindsay Cray started her career as a therapist after a long and interesting journey. Her life was shaped by her deep connection to nature, which served as her safe space during a challenging upbringing in Rochester, New York. Despite growing up in the city, she often sought refuge in nearby green spaces, which became an essential part of her life.She pursued a career in environmental science and conducted research on conservation and how people interact with natural spaces. Her conclusion was that including local culture and community engagement in protection plans for green spaces was more effective and efficient. Her affinity for the outdoors led her to teach young people about nature and its importance.In her career as an educator, Lindsay realized that she wanted to do more in the field of mental health. She embarked on a journey to become a mental health counselor, earning a second master's degree. This decision was influenced by her father's terminal brain cancer diagnosis and her desire to make a positive impact in the mental health field.In 2020, Lindsay started her own ecotherapy program for veterans, combining her love for nature with her mental health counseling skills. She emphasized that nature-based therapy could help individuals understand their connection to themselves and the natural world and become an integrated part of their lives. Her approach focused on education, psychoeducation, and wilderness survival skills, offering a holistic approach to mental health.As a therapist, Lindsay integrates cognitive-behavioral therapy with her expertise in wilderness survival, empowering her clients to connect with nature and develop essential life skills. She emphasizes that therapy should help individuals during sessions and enable them to explore and enjoy nature on their own.Lindsay is passionate about working with veterans and helping them transition from military culture to civilian life, offering them tools to overcome challenges and feel empowered to take control of their mental health. She believes that the traditional model of therapy needs improvement, with a focus on quality care and long-term effectiveness rather than just productivity metrics. She also mentioned the potential impact of investment firms in the mental health field, which could lead to changes in licensing and greater accessibility to quality care across state lines. For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:Website:      https://www.mhtpodcast.comYoutube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2sLinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=trueMental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.

In this interview, the guest, Jessica Langenhan, a board-certified psychiatrist, discusses her journey into psychiatry and her experience working in telehealth. She talks about treating a variety of patients, including children and adolescents, and highlights the increased need for mental health services. She mentions her transition to full-time telehealth practice, which allows her to reach a wider range of patients, even in different states.Jessica also discusses her personal journey into psychiatry, initially considering a career in pediatric medicine but ultimately finding a passion for psychiatry during her rotations. She talks about the challenges of working in private practices and inpatient settings and how telehealth has become the most productive and effective method for her.The interview delves into the changing landscape of mental health services during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Jessica discusses the increased recognition of mental health and the importance of mental health parity with physical health. She also mentions the rising interest in the field of psychiatry and how younger therapists are entering the profession, many of them specializing in telehealth.The conversation touches on the topic of ADHD and its varying presentations, especially in girls. Jessica talks about different treatment approaches for ADHD, including medications and behavioral techniques, while emphasizing the importance of self-awareness.Finally, the interview explores the challenges and psychological impact of returning to the office after a period of remote work. Jessica mentions the resistance to returning to the traditional office setting, with people questioning whether it's necessary and contemplating potential career changes. This shift in work dynamics prompts reflection on work-life balance, job satisfaction, and mental well-being. For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:Website:      https://www.mhtpodcast.comYoutube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2sLinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=trueMental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.