BJ Shea: Uncovering Men's Mental Health- Hey Man; it's Ok Episode 318

About this episode

Sky Bridges and Ryan Heapy engage BJ Shea in a deep conversation about men's mental health, exploring personal journeys, therapy, and the importance of emotional expression.

In this powerful episode of Hey Man; It’s Okay , hosts Sky Bridges and Ryan Heapy, LMFT , sit down with Seattle radio legend BJ Shea for a candid, vulnerable, and surprisingly uplifting conversation about men’s mental health. Sky shares how BJ’s voice helped carry him through some of his darkest moments, setting the tone for an open and deeply human discussion about identity, art, grief, therapy, and the emotional lives men are often discouraged from showing. BJ reflects on his own mental health journey—from personal struggles to becoming a vocal advocate for suicide awareness and co-creating the nationwide I’m Listening campaign. He talks about the emotional landscape of radio and the Seattle music scene, how therapy transformed his life and career, and why authentic expression is essential for men of all ages. Ryan offers a therapist’s perspective, exploring emotional language, behavioral science, and why learning to name your feelings— even when you don’t know the “why” —is a crucial step toward healing. Together, the three dive deep into: BJ Shea’s personal mental health journey The influence of radio, community, and Seattle’s music culture How therapy supports creativity…

People in this episode

Hosts: Sky Bridges, Ryan Heapy

Guest: BJ Shea

Topics covered

• men's mental health
• therapy
• emotional expression
• gender norms
• creativity
• vulnerability

Keywords

• mental health
• therapy
• vulnerability
• emotional growth
• gender norms
• Seattle
• BJ Shea

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: I’m Listening campaign

Places: Seattle, Seattle music scene

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