Hope Starts With Us: Recent Episodes
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
On this podcast, Daniel H. Gillison Jr., CEO of NAMI (the National Alliance on Mental Illness), brings important mental health topics to light, one conversation at a time. Hope starts with us sharing our stories. Hope starts with us breaking the stigma. Hope starts with us sharing resources and practical advice. If you or a loved one is struggling with a mental health condition and are looking for hope, this podcast is for you.
Through the Community Health Equity Alliance (CHEA), NAMI is working to reduce mental health crises nationwide, especially in Black/African Ancestry communities. One component of increasing access to mental health care and trust in mental health care systems is increasing representation among providers. By partnering with the Young Doctors Project, NAMI is helping to Pack the Pipeline with diverse mental health professionals. This episode highlights the partnership NAMI has with the Young Doctors Project, why this work to increase representation is crucial, how diversity in research leads to important findings, and more. Through this conversation with Dr. Sabina Berretta, Mahlon Williams (Young Doctors Project participant), and Dr. Malcolm Woodland, NAMI highlights the need for more representation and diversity in mental health professions and the notable impact increased diversity has on mental health care.
Learn more about the Community Health Equity Alliance (CHEA).
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Co-executive produced by Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
This episode highlights mental health systems and caregiving for loved ones with mental health conditions. As NAMI recognizes Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month this July, Dr. Glenda Wrenn Gordon and Christopher Hampton join NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. to discuss the NAMI Family Caregiver HelpLine and Crisis Can’t Wait materials, as well as exploring advice about navigating mental health care systems.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Co-executive produced by Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
Kody Green joins “Hope Starts With Us” to share his story of living with schizophrenia. From diagnosis to incarceration to his thriving present-day life, this episode will explore the impact of Kody’s experiences on how he has evolved over the years. As a content creator with a following of two million across platforms, Kody’s story resonates with so many who want to feel community with someone who lives with mental illness and learn more about what it’s like to navigate schizophrenia.
Learn more about Kody’s experiences with schizophrenia through his social media. Find him @schizophrenichippie on Instagram and TikTok.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Co-executive produced by Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
In honor of Pride Month, this episode explores mental health for LGBTQ+ young people. NAMI’s Chief Advocacy Officer Hannah Wesolowski is joined by Rodrigo Heng-Lehtinen (The Trevor Project) and Taylor Locke (NAMI Next Gen, NAMI New York State). Together, the trio discusses recent research from The Trevor Project about mental health among LGBTQ+ youth, the importance of supportive adults for LGBTQ+ young people, how communities can reduce the risk of suicide for young queer people, and more.
Learn more from The Trevor Project's research here.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Co-executive produced by Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
In this key episode, NAMI explores how becoming a parent brings many changes to anyone’s life. To add to the changes, balancing new or forthcoming parenthood with mental health conditions might feel difficult.
Guest host Barb Solish, NAMI’s National Director of Innovation, is joined by Kate Kennedy-Lynch, NAMI Director of External Relations, and Alessandra Torresani, actress, podcast host, and NAMI Ambassador. They discuss their own lived experiences navigating mental health conditions before, during, and after their pregnancies, sharing what they’ve learned throughout their mental health journeys. Finally, they share ways they’ve found to balance mental health and parenthood for Mental Health Awareness Month and Maternal Mental Health Month.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Co-executive produced by Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
Joshua Bassett, popular musician and actor best known for his role in “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series,” joins the podcast for an exploration into coming of age under constant evaluation. Joshua’s new book, “Rookie: My Public, Private, and Secret Life,” was released this week, published as Mental Health Awareness Month begins. As a young person struggling with anxiety and addiction, Joshua learned that the journey to recovery is often not linear. In this episode, listeners will hear NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. and Joshua discuss the keys to Joshua’s recovery, how acting in a high-profile show impacted his identity and growth, the ways art surpasses performance and becomes survival, the role of hope in his healing journey, and more.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Co-executive produced by Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
This episode of “Hope Starts With Us” features NAMI’s Director of Field Resource Development Mary Sorensen. Through this conversation, listeners will learn about NAMIWalks, NAMI’s community-driven fundraising event happening nationwide. This discussion will highlight the importance of community mental health events, the power of coming together with our neighbors, how to get involved, and more.
Sign up for a NAMIWalks near you today!
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Co-executive produced by Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
For the 100th episode of “Hope Starts With Us,” NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. is joined by outgoing Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ken Duckworth and Dr. Christine Crawford, our incoming chief medical officer. Together, the trio explores the past and future of mental health care. During their conversation, they cover pressing topics in mental health care today, the futures they hope for, and how NAMI is guiding the path forward.
Listeners can find both "You Are Not Alone: The NAMI Guide to Navigating Mental Health" by Dr. Ken Duckworth and "You Are Not Alone For Parents and Caregivers: The NAMI Guide to Navigating Your Child’s Mental Health" by Dr. Christine Crawford online via NAMI's website.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Co-executive produced by Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
In this two-part episode, we explore the experience of living with bipolar disorder in recognition of World Bipolar Day on March 30. NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. talks with four incredible people with bipolar disorder diagnoses to understand how they manage their mental health, how it fuels their work, and ways they push against mental health stigma. In part one, we’re joined by filmmaker Paul Dalio and NAMI Board of Directors Treasurer Barbara Ricci. After a short break, part two features a conversation with author and filmmaker Sara Schley alongside Dr. Devika Bhushan, also a member of NAMI’s board of directors. Through this episode, we hope that listeners learn about bipolar disorder and engage with the art discussed throughout these conversations.
Learn more about Paul Dalio’s work at https://pauldalio.com/
Find out how to catch “BrainStorm” for World Bipolar Day at https://brainstormthefilm.com/
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Co-executive produced by Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
NAMI released its third annual workplace mental health poll yesterday. In this episode, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. is joined by Brit Wanstrath, manager of workplace mental health for NAMI. As they explore the key findings from the poll release, listeners will find out what makes employees feel comfortable talking about mental health at work, the scale of burnout impacting American workers, the importance of mental health workplace trainings, and more. With the information from this year’s NAMI-Ipsos Workplace Mental Health poll, companies can begin making plans for increased support for their employees.
Learn more at nami.org/MentalHealthAtWork2026
Find the new NAMI StigmaFree workplace training, You Can Ask by NAMI, online now.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Co-executive produced by Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
In honor of National Criminal Justice Month, “Hope Starts With Us” is guest hosted by NAMI’s Chief Advocacy Officer Hannah Wesolowski in conversation with NAMI’s Director of Criminal Justice Policy and Initiatives Shannon Scully. The two explore NAMI’s advocacy to end the criminalization of mental illness and creating avenues for help, not handcuffs. Through this episode, listeners will learn about our criminal justice policy priorities, the need for more support and resources, how to get involved in NAMI’s National Criminal Justice Month and Overlooked campaigns, plus the brand-new resource “Navigating the Criminal Justice System.” Listen now and learn how you can get involved today.
Episode links:
- National Criminal Justice Month
- NAMI's Overlooked campaign
- NAMI's new resource: "Navigating the Criminal Justice System"
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Co-executive produced by Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
From February 23 through March 1, 2026, NAMI joins the National Alliance for Eating Disorders in challenging stigma about eating disorders and supporting recovery. In this episode, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. is joined by McCall Dempsey, founder of Southern Smash, and Alexandra Miles, Founder and CEO of Project Blackbird. They will explore the connections between their work engaging young people, embracing self-acceptance as part of recovery, and what it means to shed shame about mental health and eating disorders. This episode highlights lived experiences with eating disorders and stigma reduction efforts.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Co-executive produced by Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
At this year’s Big Game, NAMI extended our partnership with Dan Marino’s Stay Healthy Zone and announced a new yearlong partnership with Off The Field NFL Wives Association. In this episode, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. talks with President of Off The Field NFL Wives Association, Tenisha Patterson Brown. They discuss what led her to mental health advocacy, the unique experiences of NFL players and their spouses, caregiving for a loved one with mental health conditions, and more.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Co-executive produced by Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
At NAMI, we know that sharing stories about mental health conditions helps reduce stigma still held by far too many. In this episode, NAMI CEO Dan Gillison is joined by award-winning documentary producer-writer-director Frank Kosa. Frank is also an executive producer of the podcast “Brain Stories,” which demonstrates commitment to changing mainstream culture by creating awareness and caring for people living with mental health conditions. During Dan and Frank’s conversation, listeners will hear about NAMI family education courses, the impact of sharing stories, and how storytelling can change minds and culture.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Co-executive produced by Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
Sharing your mental health story takes strength, resilience, and courage – and it is so worth it. Every person’s mental health story has power: Power to create change, reduce stigma and discrimination, and build community. In this episode, NAMI CEO Dan Gillison joins Maybelline New York’s Samantha Vittengl as she shares how mental health has touched her life, how her family navigated the process of finding help, and how they learned they are not alone.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Co-executive produced by Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
In this episode, NAMI CEO Dan Gillison explores NAMI's accomplishments throughout 2025 in conversation with retiring Chief Innovation Officer Darcy Gruttadaro and Chief Advocacy Officer Hannah Wesolowski. Together, they discuss growth in NAMI's initiatives focused on youth mental health, success in our advocacy efforts, and the importance of our grassroots community. Listeners will also hear about the significant amount of bipartisan support for mental health policies, as well as the ongoing challenges that remain in the mental health landscape. Finally, Dan, Darcy, and Hannah reflect on what gives them hope and helps them continue working toward mental health equity and increased access to mental health care.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Co-executive produced by Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
When navigating a new mental health diagnosis, there are a lot of ways someone’s life can change. If family support is available, the journey to recovery and stabilization can feel at least a little less challenging. In this episode, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. is joined by Major General Gregg F. Martin, retired, and his wife Maggie Ryan to explore the connections between family support, caregiving, and recovery from mental illness. During this conversation, listeners will hear about what types of support caregivers want, how families can address mental health stigma, and advice about navigating a mental health diagnosis on the journey to recovery and stabilization.
Hear more about Gregg F. Martin's story in episode 57, Leading and Living With Bipolar Disorder.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
Learning to navigate depression and other mental health conditions takes a village of support and care. In this episode, Carnie Wilson, founding member of Wilson Philips, joins NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. to discuss her mental health journey. Growing up, Carnie experienced depression and anxiety and sought to numb her pain. Today, she is an advocate for mental health and reducing the stigma surrounding effects of tardive dyskinesia (TD). Listeners will hear from Carnie about how she advocates for mental health, her experiences with mental health, and more.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
Behind the medals, records, and highlight reels are stories of perseverance that extend beyond physical performance. In this powerful keynote panel from NAMICon 2025, world-class cyclist and Peloton instructor Christine D’Ercole; former WNBA player and mental health advocate Imani McGee-Stafford; Olympic gold medalist swimmer Allison Schmitt; and middle distance track & field athlete representing ASICS Rachel McArthur open up about their personal mental health journeys — sharing the challenges they've faced and how they continue to prioritize mental health in high-performance environments. Moderated by Anne Wintroub, head of social impact and engagement at lululemon, this conversation explores what it means to be truly strong — and why vulnerability, support, and self-awareness are essential for lasting resilience.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
NAMI joined Macy’s Social Impact Collaborative, along with the Trust for Public Land and other nonprofit organizations, to conduct a study with the goal of gaining a better understanding of what is impacting youth mental health – directly from young people themselves. In this episode, guest host Kate Kennedy-Lynch talks with NAMI Associate Medical Director Dr. Christine Crawford, the Trust for Public Land’s Dr. Pooja Tandon, and Taanvi Arekapudi, a young person who participated in the youth study. Together, they will discuss key findings from the study, where young people are looking for help, how outdoor time can help families and young people, and advice for talking to young people about mental health concerns.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
In this special episode recorded during NAMICon 2025, hear from a panel of mental health champions who bravely share their personal stories of struggle, survival, and hope. Raymond Braun and James Longman share their personal, lived experiences of mental health and serious mental illness while Don Mordecai, MD, shares his expert knowledge.
Through this episode, listeners will be inspired by their commitment to challenge stigma, break down silence, and create spaces for connection, healing, and recovery. Listeners will also discover the critical work Calm and Kaiser Permanente are doing to support men’s mental health through awareness, education, and culturally responsive resources – and understand how to turn men’s mental health awareness into action.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
Actor and mental health advocate Da’Vinchi joins NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. for a conversation about making waves in mental health. As an advocate, Da’Vinchi uses his platform and voice to have widespread conversations about mental health stigma within Black and Brown communities, as well as the loneliness epidemic and rising rates of depression and suicide for youth. Throughout this conversation, hear from Da’Vinchi about why he advocates for mental health, what is changing in Hollywood, and what youth need to feel supported.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
Every one of us has taken solace in “comfort food” before and knows how much what we eat can impact our moods. In this episode, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. speaks with Carla Hall, a chef, host, and author. After recently participating in an episode of Celebrity Family Feud benefitting NAMI, Carla joined Dan to talk about her mental health journey and current projects, as well as how food can support mental well-being and keep memories alive.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. talks with Candace Washington, licensed certified social worker-clinical (LCSW-C), psychotherapist, production therapist, suicide survivor, and a United States Air Force Veteran, to kick off Suicide Prevention Month this September. The pair discuss Candace’s mental health journey, lessons she has learned, faith, the entertainment industry, and suicide prevention.
If you or someone you know are experiencing a mental health crisis, reach out for help today. Call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org for online chat options, to speak with a trained support specialist.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
Going back to school can be tough for kids – and their parents. In this episode, Barb Solish, from NAMI’s Office of Innovation, guest hosts for a conversation with child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr. Christine Crawford. Hear from Dr. Crawford about what parents are worried about, how to address screen time for children, and modeling behavior at home. Plus, hear about what mental health warning signs parents can watch for and when to escalate concerns.
To hear more from Dr. Crawford, check out her recent appearance on The TODAY Show and her previous “Hope Starts With Us” interview.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. discusses childhood literacy and youth mental well-being with President and CEO of Reading Is Fundamental, Alicia Levi. Brought together by our shared partnership with Macy’s, these leaders explore how Reading Is Fundamental and NAMI’s missions align. This episode asks: By developing reading and mental well-being skills, can we increase the chances that these children grow into adults who are better equipped to care for their mental health?
The Back to School Round Up at the Register campaign runs from July 1 – September 14, 2025. Learn more about NAMI and Reading Is Fundamental’s partnership with Macy’s at macys.com/purpose.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
This episode is part of NAMI’s recognition of International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples on Saturday, August 9. In this episode, guest host Stephanie Robertson, Director of Mental Health Equity Innovation, is joined by Mechelle Negrete, NAMI’s Manager of American Indian Mental Health Community Outreach. They discuss their experiences with mental health, how they became mental health advocates, barriers to care for American Indian communities, what change they hope to see, and more.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
In this follow-up conversation about Medicaid and mental health advocacy, NAMI’s Chief Advocacy Officer Hannah Wesolowski discusses Medicaid cuts and advocacy opportunities with Jennifer Snow, NAMI's National Director of Government Relations and Policy. Listeners will hear their expert opinions on how Medicaid cuts just passed by Congress will impact people with mental health conditions and their families, policies NAMI will be monitoring, how supporters can stay involved, and more. Plus, hear from Hannah and Jen about the third anniversary of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and NAMI’s recent public opinion polling about 988.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
July is Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. In honor of her legacy, this episode features Dr. Sheldon A. Jacobs and Dr. Judith Joseph in conversation with NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. Our guests share their mental health stories and what drove them to become mental health professionals. They also discuss helping young Black people explore mental health careers, mental health for Caribbean Americans, and what they wish communities knew about mental health care.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
Following their previous conversations in episodes 63 and 70, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. is joined again by NAMI Westside Los Angeles CEO Erin Raftery Ryan and Stella Mental Health Chief Psychologist Shauna “Doc” Springer. This episode asks us to consider how we continue to support communities after traumatic events occur and after the news is no longer “breaking.” How can local community members support each other? How can caring folks who are far away contribute to efforts to heal? How can traumatic events happening around the world affect your mental health? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this continued conversation.
Listen to previous episodes in this conversation series: Episode 63 and Episode 70
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
In this episode recognizing Pride Month, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. is joined by Juan Acosta, a mental health advocate and LGBTQI+ activist. During this conversation, the group explores Juan’s mental health journey, how he mixes mental health and LGBTQI+ advocacy, what change he hopes to see, and what’s next for him. They also discuss the California legislature recognizing Juan as a 2025 Pride Month honoree in 2025.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
The relationship someone has with their faith community can have a big impact on their mental health journey. In this episode, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. and Christian Bentley discuss how Christian’s Catholic faith and community have helped him navigate the bipolar 1 disorder diagnosis he received. Their conversation explores how self-acceptance and how inclusion, compassion, and care contribute to how he manages his own mental health – and how these values could help others on their journey, too.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
In this bonus drop, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. is personally inviting you to join us for NAMICon 2025!
NAMICon is where hundreds of dynamic and important voices unite to improve mental health for all through awareness, education, and advocacy. It’s a space where personal journeys are celebrated, positive change takes root, and new connections foster support, hope, and healing.
From June 11-13, NAMI is meeting mental health champions where you are. NAMICon 2025 is virtual and registration costs are low.
UPDATE 6/9/2025: Registration will be open until June 12 at 5 pm ET! Register at convention.nami.org to receive access to NAMICon content!
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
Becoming a parent brings many changes to anyone’s life. To add to the changes, balancing new or forthcoming parenthood with mental health conditions might feel difficult. In this episode, guest host Barb Solish, NAMI’s National Director of Innovation, is joined by Kate Kennedy-Lynch, NAMI Director of External Relations, and Alessandra Torresani, actress, podcast host, and NAMI Ambassador. They discuss their own lived experiences navigating mental health conditions before, during, and after their pregnancies, sharing what they’ve learned throughout their mental health journeys. Finally, they share ways they’ve found to balance mental health and parenthood for Mental Health Awareness Month and Maternal Mental Health Month.
Find more resources about maternal and new parent mental health at nami.org/NewParents
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
In this episode, Stephanie Robertson, NAMI’s Director of Mental Health Equity Innovation, is joined by Dr. Sidney Hankerson, Associate Professor and Vice Chair in the Department of Psychiatry at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. They discuss the incredible work being done in local communities by Dr. Hankerson’s work with the HOPE Center and TRIUMPH study. Dr. Hankerson also explores the ways these programs collaborate with community-based organizations and offers advice about building meaningful and lasting partnerships that support mental health through initiatives rooted in community.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
May is National Anxiety Awareness Month, so four members of NAMI Next Gen joined NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. to talk about their experiences with anxiety. In this episode, Srihitha Dasari, Nadiyah Fisher, Anuj Gandhi, and Caitlyn Jennings share stories about their mental health journeys with us. Their conversation will cover their personal experiences, the many different types of anxiety, some ideas for managing anxiety, how mental health education can help youth, and more.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
Taking care of your health includes mental health, too. In this episode, NAMI CEO and host Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. is joined in conversation with David Ko, CEO of Calm and author of the #1 bestselling book, “Recharge: Boosting Your Mental Battery One Conversation at a Time.” Together, they discuss why David wrote “Recharge,” how Calm highlights mental health at work, and supporting youth as they navigate life both online and off.
Learn more about David's book, "Recharge: Boosting Your Mental Battery One Conversation at a Time"
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
At NAMI, we work to ensure that anyone experiencing mental health conditions knows that they are not alone. The staff and volunteers on our NAMI HelpLine and Teen & Young Adult HelpLine work on the frontline, responding to phone calls, texts, and chats from people seeking help. Today, host and NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. is joined by two NAMI HelpLine volunteers, Madison Rubert and Dave Tippett, along with NAMI HelpLine Operations Director Megan Rochford. In this conversation, we celebrate the hard work of our volunteers, discuss the recent accreditation from the International Council for HelpLines, and close out National Volunteers Month with gratitude for the care NAMI volunteers exhibit every day.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
Following their previous conversation in episode 63, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. is joined again by NAMI West Los Angeles CEO Erin Raftery Ryan and Stella Mental Health Chief Psychologist Shauna “Doc” Springer. This episode asks us to consider how we continue to support communities after traumatic events occur and after the news is no longer “breaking.” How can local community members support each other? How can caring folks who are far away contribute to efforts to heal? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this continued conversation.
Mentioned in this conversation, two additional resources:
- LA Connect
- LA Jewish Federation
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
In this episode, NAMI’s Chief Advocacy Officer Hannah Wesolowski guest hosts a special episode about Medicaid’s importance for the mental health community. Hannah is joined by NAMI Minnesota Executive Director Sue Abderholden and NAMI’s Director Public Policy, Anita Burgos. Together, they discuss the potential changes to federal Medicaid funding, what Medicaid is and why it’s so crucial, how federal funding cuts could impact states, and options for listeners to get involved and advocate for Medicaid and the mental health community.
Learn more at nami.org/medicaid
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
In this episode, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. is joined by Elliott Connie, a psychotherapist and advocate for mental health. This discussion focuses on Elliott Connie’s solution focused therapy practice, men’s mental health, and opening up conversations about mental health within Black communities.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
As part of National Criminal Justice Month, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. is joined by Matthew D. Chase, CEO/Executive Director of the National Association of Counties (NACo). As long-time friends and colleagues, they will reflect on efforts to divert people with mental illness from the criminal justice system, including 10 years of the Stepping Up initiative, and where they see the work of and ways that local governments, like counties, have led the charge.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
NAMI was founded by families coming together in an alliance to advocate for mental health care and an end to discrimination against mental illness. While many family members were part of our founding, it was largely women leading at the helm. In this episode of “Hope Starts With Us,” we’re joined by three NAMI Ambassadors: guest host Alessandra Torresani, Jamie Gray Hyder, and DeWanda Wise. Together, they will explore the impact of significant women in mental health and how their contributions have helped pave the path to today’s mental health advocacy landscape.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
NAMI released our second poll about workplace mental health on February 27. The poll was conducted in partnership with Ipsos and highlights key findings for employees’ mental health at work. NAMI’s Chief Innovation Officer Darcy Gruttadaro serves as our guest host in discussion with Brit Wanstrath, NAMI’s Manager of Workplace Mental Health Initiatives. In this episode, the pair will discuss the poll’s four key findings, stigma surrounding mental health at work, and how employers can best support their workforce.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
As part of Eating Disorder Awareness Week, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. is joined by Johanna Kandel (National Alliance for Eating Disorders) and Alexandra Miles (Project Blackbird). Together, they discuss stigma facing those living with eating disorders, barriers to recovery, and what each guest wishes people knew about eating disorders.
Connect with National Alliance for Eating Disorders at https://www.allianceforeatingdisorders.com/
Find Project Blackbird online at https://www.projectblackbirdinc.org/
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
In the aftermath of the Los Angeles wildfires in January 2025, many of us have questions about how we can best support those who have lost their homes, their memories, and their places in the world. This episode of “Hope Starts With Us” features NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. in conversation with NAMI West Los Angeles CEO Erin Raftery Ryan and Stella Mental Health Chief Psychologist Shauna “Doc” Springer. Through their conversation, the group shares stories from the fires, how to support our neighbors after traumatic events, the idea of ‘bright siding,’ and more.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
In this episode, guest host Darcy Gruttadaro is joined by NAMI’s new Mental Health Equity Director, Stephanie Robertson. During their discussion, listeners will learn about the Community Health Equity Alliance (CHEA) and the Crisis Can't Wait campaign, Black History Month, mental health equity, and actions NAMI is taking to expand access to care for mental health conditions.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
In 2023, NAMI produced the Schizophrenia and Psychosis Lexicon Guide. In this episode, NAMI CEO Dan Gillison, Jr. is joined by Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ken Duckworth to explore why the language we use to talk about schizophrenia and psychosis matters. Throughout their conversation, listeners will learn about the impact using empathetic language can benefit individuals living with schizophrenia and psychosis, as well as how this guide can support the cultural shift away from mental health stigmas.
Listeners can find the Schizophrenia and Psychosis Lexicon Guide at nami.org/sczlexicon
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
As NAMI approaches its fiftieth anniversary as the nation’s largest grassroots mental health advocacy organization, NAMI’s Chief Development Officer is chatting with our Chief Innovation Officer, Darcy Gruttadaro. Throughout their conversation, listeners will hear about NAMI’s updated strategic priorities, our plans for growing our impact in 2025, and how we plan to expand our impact for individuals and loved ones experiencing mental illness.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
In this episode, NAMI Ambassador and Licensed Professional Counselor Elise Banks-Lovely joins NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. to discuss NAMI’s past. Recorded at NAMICon 2024 in Denver, Colorado, Elise and Dan reminisce on the nine years Elise has served as a NAMI Ambassador and the growth the alliance has experienced. As we wrap up this year, we’re looking forward to the new ways we can expand the alliance and increase access to mental health care for all.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
NAMI’s National Director of Government Relations, Policy, and Advocacy, Jen Snow, talks with NAMI Greater Los Angeles County Executive Director Traute Winters about suicide prevention. During the holidays, many of us enjoy time with family and friends, but for many others, these can be trying times of increased loneliness. In this episode, listeners will hear a discussion about seasonal depression, suicide prevention, and how we can combat loneliness. This episode also features a discussion about the legislative progress being made in California and an overview of the work it took to get there.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
During National Veterans and Military Families Month, Major General Gregg Martin and NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. come together to talk about what it means to be a leader – and how a leader can be changed by a late-onset mental health diagnosis. Listeners will hear General Martin talk about his mental health story, leadership and living with a mental illness, and what being an advocate for mental health means to him. Recorded in Denver at NAMICon 2024, this conversation about mental health, military service and veterans, and family support is timeless.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
Art can help us process past experiences, explore our emotions, and expand our perspectives. In this episode, NAMI CEO Dan Gillison is joined by NAMI Ambassadors and artists Alex Alpert and Pepper Auerbach, as well as The Franklin Institute’s Dr. Jayatri Das. Together, they discuss how art impacts mental health, as well as the connection between physical and mental health. Alex and Pepper will have artwork presented in The Franklin Institute’s upcoming exhibition, “Body Odyssey,” in part about how science can help all of us find balance in our mental and physical health.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
As we look ahead to the TCS New York City Marathon, we are in awe of the athletes that have trained so hard and are about to take on the grueling 26.2 mile course through the five boroughs of New York. In this episode we will talk to Race Director Ted Metellus, who has made history as the first Black race director of an Abbott World Marathon Major, and we will explore how he is working to bring fitness and running to the Black community. We’ll also speak to Jeffrey McEachern, a Peloton Tread instructor, mental health advocate, and marathon runner, who is bringing awareness and raising funds for important organizations serving marginalized communities – and is about to take on his second New York City Marathon. We will discuss how running has changed our guests’ mental health and their lives.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
"Hope Starts With Us" is a podcast by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It is hosted by NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr.
Episode production is provided by NAMI staff, including Traci Coulter and Connor Larsen.
In this episode, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr., is joined by NAMI Connecticut's Public Policy & Affiliate Relations Manager, Thomas Burr. Thomas shares his family's story of navigating his son's mental health condition, along with how the challenges accompanying the condition impacted their family. Listeners will learn how NAMI's programs and support groups helped Thomas and his family regain stability with community support.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
In this episode for Suicide Prevention Month, author and NAMI Ambassador April Simpkins talks with NAMI's CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr., about how she has moved forward after the loss of her daughter, Cheslie Kryst, to suicide. Tune in to hear from April about how she intentionally models positive mental health habits for her children. This episode will help parents who are struggling with how to talk to their kids about cell phone use, screen time, and mental health.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
For parents and caregivers, navigating youth mental health may be unknown territory. In this episode, NAMI’s CEO, Daniel H. Gillison, Jr., is joined by our Associate Medical Director and author of “You Are Not Alone for Parents and Caregivers,” Dr. Christine Crawford. Together, they explore what signs parents and caregivers should watch for, how to talk about mental health with youth, and more. Please visit YouAreNotAloneBook.org for more information about Dr. Crawford’s book and to pre-order your copy.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
Pooja Mehta, a member of NAMI’s Board of Directors, discusses her personal mental health journey with NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. During this episode, Pooja shares why she focuses on youth engagement about mental health and her experience growing up as a ‘third culture kid’ while navigating her own mental health.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
How do you navigate a mental health challenge when your community isn’t supportive or doesn’t have mental health awareness? For our 50th episode of “Hope Starts With Us,” NAMI’s CEO, Daniel H. Gillison, Jr., discusses faith, community, and mental health. He is joined by NAMI Next Gen member, Mary Lawal, to explore the intersections of those three crucial elements.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
The stereotype of the “strong Black woman” can be a barrier to mental health care. In this episode, guest host April Simpkins talks about the pressure of living at the intersection of Blackness and womanhood, as well as initiatives from NAMI to address the Black and African Ancestry communities. She is joined by Miss Alaska USA 2018 and NAMI Ambassador Brooke Johnson and psychologist and founder of AAKOMA Project, Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
In honor of Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, NAMI’s CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr., is joined by Harold Turner, Executive Director of NAMI Urban Los Angeles, and Tracy McMillan, a relationship expert and television writer. In this episode, Dan and our guests explore mental health equity in minoritized communities, navigating mental health crises, the upcoming second season of Hulu’s “UnPrisoned,” and more.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
Randy Ryan, host of NAMI Westside LA’s “Man Up” podcast, joins NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr., for this episode. In their discussion, hear about what it means to perform masculinity and “be a man” during Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, plus how mental health impacts veterans and service members.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
Arthur C. Evans Jr., PhD, CEO of the American Psychological Association, joins NAMI CEO Dan Gillison, Jr., in remembrance of George Floyd and to discuss how his murder, as a result of police violence, shifted conversations about racism and mental health in the United States. Throughout this conversation, they explore the challenge to increase equity for Black men and boys navigating mental health care. You’ll also hear how the American Psychological Association is working to address institutional and systemic racism.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr., speaks to Dr. Hernando Carter, an internal medicine physician based in Birmingham, Alabama. They discuss the importance of caring for the health care professionals in our communities in honor of National Hospital Week, as well as bridging care gaps for underrepresented communities and developing increased representation within the health care field.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
As Mental Health Awareness Month begins, NAMI is talking about ways to take the moment for our mental health. Guest host Alessandra Torresani is joined by artist Alex Alpert to explore how art can act as a coping strategy when faced with mental health challenges. The pair also discusses how communication and community can be keys to navigating life, especially when diagnosed with mental health conditions.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks to mental health advocate and Peloton instructor, Jon Hosking. They will discuss the barriers for men seeking mental health care, stress awareness and the intersection of mental health and physical health.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
InMarch NAMI recognized National Criminal Justice Month, and guest host Hannah Wesolowski, NAMI’s Chief Advocacy Officer, sat down to chat with Bureau of Justice Assistance Director Karhlton Moore about criminal justice and mental health. Tune in to hear about how the Bureau of Justice Assistance is supporting innovation in communities across the country through collaboration between criminal justice systems and mental health organizations. He will also share insights about how 988 is playing a role in justice system diversion and the hope he sees visiting communities across the country.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
March 30 is World Bipolar Day, and NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. is chatting with speaker Gabe Howard, who hosts the podcasts “Inside Mental Health” and “Inside Bipolar,” about living a full life with bipolar disorder. Tune in to hear about Gabe’s firsthand experience living with bipolar disorder, and how he has worked to reduce mental health stigma. We’ll also touch on topics such as the evolving conversation surrounding mental health, how best to support those living with bipolar disorder and how we hold onto hope. Learn more about Gabe at gabehoward.com.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
During Black History Month, guest host and manager of HBCU engagement Juno Pitchford speaks with award-winning author Antonia Hylton about her newly released book, "Madness: Race and Insanity in a Jim Crow Asylum." Tune in to hear more about the legacy of slavery and segregation in mental health care, and what possibilities for change and healing can look like.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
For the first episode of Black History Month, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with Dr. Mikah Owen and Dr. Roy Wade Jr. about the long-term mental and physical health effects of racism and adverse childhood experiences, and what we can do on an individual and societal level to address the symptoms and causes of these toxic stressors. Tune in to hear about real life examples, what the research says and actionable next steps each of us can take.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
As we gear up for the superbowl, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with former NFL players Rob Robertson and Devin Funchess about their personal journeys with mental health, the pressures of professional sports and life after football.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
On this first episode of the year, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with international motivational speaker, certified life coach and best selling author Steven Anthony King about how we can harness the power of purpose, positivity and perseverance to manifest healing in 2024.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
During the holiday season, which can bring up a variety of emotions for many, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with NAMI’s National Director of HelpLine Services Dawn Brown about how people can find help and hope through the resources on NAMI's free National HelpLine.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
Tune in to hear NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speak with social media influencer and mental health advocate Kody Green about his experience with schizophrenia and how comedy can help spread awareness and people cope.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
During “Movember” (Men’s Health Awareness Month), NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with singer, dancer and actor Drew Lachey (98 Degrees) and musician Chris Bullard (CEO of Sound Mind Live) about men’s mental health and the powerful effects music can have on well-being.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
In honor of National Veterans and Military Families Month, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with military veterans JB Moore (Air Force), Joel OJida (Marine Corps), and Katherine Martinez (Navy) about their experiences with mental health, family and supportive resources from organizations like NAMI.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
Following OCD Awareness Week, guest host Barb Solish (NAMI national director of innovation) talks to Liz Norton (NAMI director of business analysis) about Liz’s experience with obsessive compulsive disorder.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
During Mental Illness Awareness Week, guest host Hannah Wesolowski (NAMI’s Chief Advocacy Officer) talks to Richele Keas (NAMI’s senior media manager) about mental health parity. In this episode, Richele shares her story as a mom who’s personally wrestled with insurance companies to find care for a loved one living with mental illness, and she also discusses her recent trip to the White House to help advance parity.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with Zak Williams (PYM) and Kendall Toole (Peloton) in honor of suicide prevention and awareness month. Having each lost a loved one to suicide, Zak and Kendall explain how they now use their stories to help others — and how they maintain their own mental hygiene along the way.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, guest host Alex Ang (member of NAMI NextGen), fills in for NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. to speak with Jayvein Greene (NAMI Young Leader 2023 Award Recipient), Zoë Warren (volunteer for NAMI’s new Youth & Young Adult Helpline) and Rishika Rohatgi (member of NAMI Next Gen) about how students can help make mental health a priority for themselves and their peers this school year.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
In this ENCORE episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with Willa (NAMI ambassador, singer/songwriter and newly enrolled Harvard student) and Angel Zhong (NAMI Next Gen youth advisor, rising senior and newly elected class president at University of the Pacific) about students' anxieties as they head back to school. How are students feeling in this time where we are kind of done with the pandemic, kind of not? How can students cope with anxiety about school shootings? How are students balancing not just the pressure to perform at school, but on social media? Listen in to get real insights from real young people.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. talks with Dr. Devika Bhushan, Dr. Napoleon Higgins and Angelina Hudson about stigma and mental health equity.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
In this special episode of "Hope Starts With Us" recorded at NAMICon on May 25, 2023, NAMI CEO Dan Gillison interviews Kenneth Cole, an icon in the world of fashion and apparel who is also an ardent and visionary advocate for mental health.
Hear them discuss what led to the creation of Cole's Mental Health Coalition, the power of branding and what it all has to do with "square pegs in round holes."
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with friends of Bebe Moore Campbell, Nancy Carter and Dr. Linda Wharton-Boyd, about Bebe’s impact and how we can all play a role in keeping her legacy alive.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, guest host Matt Raymond, NAMI communications director, fills in for NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. to speak with Rosemary Ketchum (former board member of NAMI Greater Wheeling, W.Va., and first openly transgender official to be elected in West Virginia) and Frank Grimsley (body-positive, queer content creator, brand collaborator, licensed therapist, school social worker and TV personality, as featured on Netflix’s ‘The Circle’ and ‘How to Get Rich’) in honor of Pride Month about LGBTQ+ mental health. Tune in to hear more about LGBTQ+ creativity, self-care, suicide prevention and policies for support!
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with actor, mental health advocate and NAMI Ambassador Alessandra Torresani about her journey with maternal mental health and bipolar disorder. Tune in to hear more about Alessandra’s journey balancing self-care with motherhood, decisions about medication during pregnancy, and living with a mental health diagnosis and stigma.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
We're taking a break for Memorial Day, but we'll be back on June 14!
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
In honor of AAPI Heritage Month, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with NAMI National Board Member and Cambodian American Connie Mom-Chhing about Asian American and Pacific Islander mental health, the trauma of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns and rising hate crimes against the AAPI community.
“It was like a perfect storm from our perspective that hit our communities because of the combined effects of the increase in racial discrimination, the social isolation and with already existing underutilization of mental health care among the AAPI community,” she says.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with Mayan Lopez about NAMI’s theme for Mental Health Awareness Month, “More Than Enough,” and how she is using her show “Lopez vs. Lopez” to combat stigma and have important conversations about mental health in Latinx communities and across generations.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with author, clinical psychologist and leading anxiety researcher Dr. Tracy Dennis-Tiwary about how we can cope with stress and anxiety during Stress Awareness Month and beyond. Tune in to hear about the role technology can play with stress and anxiety, how we can harness difficult emotions for good, and how we can cope through healthy practices like mindfulness and meditation.
You can find additional episodes of this NAMI podcast and others at nami.org/podcast.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with professional basketball player Imani McGee Stafford and NAMI senior manager of corporate communications April Cisneros about Sexual Assault, Awareness and Prevention Month. Tune in to learn about Imani and April’s stories, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and how we can support people who experience sexual violence.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with former Justice Evelyn Lundberg Stratton about how the mental health field and the legal system can continue to work together to ensure people living with mental health conditions receive more help and less handcuffs. Tune in to hear about Justice Stratton’s work with NAMI, mental health advocates and criminal justice reform — and learn more about how you can get involved.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with actor and advocate Jamie Gray Hyder and NAMI ambassador Elise Banks about gender and mental health in honor of International Women’s Day. Tune in to hear about unique challenges women face, how we can support teenage girls, and more.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with founder and CEO of Hurdle Health Kevin Dedner about how people of color are affected by seeing hate crimes, police brutality and other acts of racism in the news, online and in the media. Tune in to learn more about vicarious trauma, advice for coping and supporting loved ones, and proposed policy ideas for systemic solutions.
Just ahead of Super Bowl Sunday, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with former NFL players Marcus Smith II, Soul Cole and Zach Moore about their personal journeys with sports and mental health, how the incident with Damar Hamlin has affected the NFL community, and how everyone can play a role in supporting young athletes’ well-being. In honor of Black History Month, they also discuss the further stigmas faced around Black male mental health both on and off the field.
If you or a loved one is seeking mental health treatment or additional information on mental health:
• Visit our website at NAMI.org.
• Call our HelpLine at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or text “HELPLINE” to 62640, open Mon-Fri from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Find your local NAMI at nami.org/findsupport
• If you or a loved one is experiencing a crisis, please call or text 988, available 24/7
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NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with NAMI’s Chief Innovation Officer Darcy Gruttadaro, J.D., about presenteeism, psychological safety and how employees and employers alike — in every workplace — can benefit from prioritizing mental health.
For NAMI’s first podcast episode of 2023, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with world-renowned motivational speaker and former Ohio State Representative Les Brown about how listeners can set mental health intentions for the new year by pursuing healthy relationships, speaking positive affirmations into their life and accessing wellness tools and resources for growth.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with Music Mogul, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, and NAMI Ambassador Master P about the recent loss of his daughter to substance use, and how he plans to cope with his first year without her during the holidays. Together, they talk about grief, faith, healing in the Black community and turning pain into purpose.
In a special Giving Tuesday episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with Dr. Sudhanva Rajagopal, a long-time supporter of NAMI, about why he gives to NAMI and how others can get involved with the organization during the end of the year season. Tune in to hear about Dr. Rajagopal’s story, and how his relationship with NAMI over the years is helping him make an impact in his community.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CMO Dr. Ken Duckworth speaks with Dr. Joseph Gone, an enrolled member of the Aaniiih-Gros Ventre tribal Nation of Montana and a professor in the Faculty of Arts and Sciences (Anthropology) and in the Faculty of Medicine (Global Health and Social Medicine) at Harvard University, where he also serves as the Faculty Director of the Harvard University Native American Program. In light of Native American Heritage Month, Dr. Duckworth and Dr. Gone discuss what healing looks like outside of the traditional western perspective, how we can promote Indigenous wellness, and what we can learn about resilience and hope from Native communities.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with three veterans about their experiences with mental health: Marine veteran and NAMI’s former chief strategy officer Sherman Gillums Jr.; Army veteran and NAMI Ambassador David Kendrick Jr.; and Coast Guard Veteran and Deputy Legislative Director of Veterans of Foreign Wars Tammy Barlet.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with Juno Pitchford, NAMI’s HBCU manager, and Daniel, a member of NAMI Baton Rouge, about their experience with depression and navigating resources over the years, across different generations. Each having attended Southern University, they share insights about how the mental health field can better engage with HBCUs and specifically young Black men, who are reported to be struggling at disproportionate rates.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with NAMI Chief Medical Officer and author of NAMI’s new book, You Are Not Alone, Dr. Ken Duckworth, alongside three individuals whose stories are featured in the new book: including model, actor, producer and NAMI ambassador Corinne Foxx; actor, comedian and NAMI ambassador Brad Gage; and former NAMI Santa Barbara County president George Kaufmann.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. highlights National Recovery Month and Hispanic Heritage Month by speaking with Odette Cressler about her experience living with depression and recovering from an eating disorder and alcohol use as a member of the Latinx community.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with April Simpkins about their shared experience of losing a family member to suicide. They talk about what life is like after losing a loved one to suicide, what resources are available to cope, and how to keep holding on to hope.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with Willa (NAMI ambassador, singer/songwriter and newly enrolled Harvard student) and Angel Zhong (NAMI Next Gen youth advisor, rising senior and newly elected class president at University of the Pacific) about students' anxieties as they head back to school. How are students feeling in this time where we are kind of done with the pandemic, kind of not? How can students cope with anxiety about school shootings? How are students balancing not just the pressure to perform at school, but on social media? Listen in to get real insights from real young people.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with NAMI Chief Advocacy Officer Hannah Wesolowski about how 988 came to be, the work that still needs to be done to build out a system that can support 988, and misinformation spreading online about 988. Listen in to get the facts straight and help spread awareness in your communities.
In this episode of NAMI’s podcast, NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. speaks with NAMI board member and psychiatrist Dr. Glenda Wrenn Gordon about her experience navigating the mental health system as a mom, after discovering one of her children has been struggling with thoughts of suicide and tried to take his own life.