Normalize It Forward

Human performance is often associated with pressure. People are pushed to their limits just to achieve the best results. Although such a challenge stretches you to do whatever it takes to succeed, you may also be putting your own well-being at risk. Marc Lehman sits down with Kyle Stark, former Assistant General Manager and Director of Player Development for the Pittsburgh Pirates, who shares his insights on working with professional athletes who are constantly pressured to give their peak performance every single game. He explains what it really takes to develop people, not just performers, into high achievers who have a real sense of identity, leadership, and resilience. Discover why you do not have to sacrifice your mental health just to deliver better outputs and unlock bigger goals, but by simply being yourself and enjoying the ride.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.

Retired Fire Captain Dave Shenbaum is a community connector known for his deep roots and commitment to others, forged through 30 years of public service in high-pressure, high-stakes environments, including the Manhattan Beach Fire Department. In this powerful conversation, Dave brings a grounded, real-world perspective to mental health, purpose, and perseverance. From navigating the challenge of dyslexia and the intensity of paramedic school, to offering honest advice for today’s youth on overcoming “overwhelming doom,” Dave provides essential wisdom. He explains why we all need to “Work on my shit first” (WOMSF), why appreciation is the key to escaping bitterness, and how turning your shortcomings into strengths is non-negotiable.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.

Communication and connection are often the first things to erode when life gets busy, yet they are the very foundation of strong teams, healthy families, and personal well-being. Steve Shenbaum brings decades of experience working with athletes, leaders, and organizations to explore how trust is built through small, consistent actions rather than big moments. As the conversation unfolds, he reflects on the role of discipline, the impact of constant information, and the quiet power of presence, offering a perspective that feels both practical and deeply human. What emerges is a reminder that meaningful connection is not complicated, but it does require intention, awareness, and a willingness to show up differently.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.

Welcome to a powerful conversation on mental health and wellness with Elizabeth "Ellie" Haney, the visionary founder of Here For You. Born from her own journey through emotional struggles and a feeling of profound isolation, Here For You is more than just a clothing brand—it's a mission to normalize candid conversations about mental health through fashion, community, and support.In this deeply honest interview, Ellie shares the excruciating reality of her college years, battling crippling anxiety and depression in silence, and the ultimate turning point—the three simple, yet life-changing words she finally spoke. Whether you're a student feeling overwhelmed, a parent seeking connection, or simply someone who believes in the power of vulnerability, Ellie’s story is a testament to the fact that hope and change are real, and that the only way out of the darkness is through it. Get ready to be inspired and reminded: you are not alone, and help is waiting for you.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.

Men’s mental health takes center stage as we hear a story of turning pain into purpose. Marc Lehman welcomes identical twins, fitness coaches, and mental health advocates Jake and Joe Sharp, who turned the tragedy of losing their younger brother Sam to suicide into a powerful mission to help others heal. They speak with incredible honesty about the impact of grief, the darkness of depression, and overcoming the isolating grip of shame and perfectionism. Their raw, real, and deeply human conversation explores the life-changing role that community, physical wellness, and finding hope played in their journey, showing listeners that true healing means connecting and growing strong together.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.

Navigating the complicated landscape of adolescent mental health requires empathy, support, and an open conversation. Marc Lehman welcomes Jill Weinstein, an LPC, mental health professional, and Clinical Director of Ignite, an adolescent mental health program at the Berman Center in Atlanta, who shares her insights from over 20 years of experience. The conversation explores the “big shift” of young adults leaving for college, the importance of proactive support—including managing legal shifts like FERPA—and the complicated, multilayered issues facing teens today. Jill and Marc also discuss reframing self-care as daily moments of awe and joy, the need for healthy relationships with social media, and the powerful role of community and connection in healing.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.

Body image and eating disorders aren’t just clinical issues; they’re lived realities shaped by culture, technology, and family life. Drawing on nearly 25 years in private practice, licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Emily Gordon explores how perfectionism, social media, and comparison culture amplify these struggles — and how parents can support teens and young adults without adding to the noise. She mixes practical strategies with warmth, showing how boundaries, honest dialogue, and tuning in to one’s inner experience can become powerful tools for resilience and healing.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.

Daily practice is the foundation Scott Simons uses to transform health, mindset and leadership, and he believes it’s the most overlooked key to resilience. In this candid conversation, the professional speaker, wellness strategist and purpose-driven entrepreneur shares how a mentor helped him turn addiction into a life of service and how starting health instead of only stopping bad habits creates real freedom. He explains how simple, repeatable habits like breathwork, hydration and movement can reset stress, rebuild the nervous system and spark clarity. Scott also opens up about his “Be Human” initiative, which helps people reclaim higher ground and connect through shared humanity, and he offers practical tools for young adults, parents and leaders to stay grounded and thrive in everyday life.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.

Ever wondered what it really takes to face your deepest mental health struggles head-on and emerge stronger? Tune in for a powerfully honest conversation with Brian Talarczyk, author of I Am Not Bipolar. Brian shares his personal battle with mental illness, offering crucial insights on the importance of seeking help, navigating psychotic episodes, and reframing stress as a sign of growth. Discover his unwavering commitment to authenticity and how giving back to the community is integral to his own mental wellness journey. This episode is a testament to resilience, vulnerability, and the strength found in open dialogue.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.

Fostering human connection and hope within schools is a vital step in addressing youth mental health. In this insightful episode, we delve into this critical topic with Greg Hudnall Jr., CEO of Hope Squad. We learn about Hope Squad’s innovative approach to empowering students to become active listeners and supportive peers, helping to normalize conversations around mental health and provide crucial connections. Greg shares his unique journey from corporate America to leading Hope Squad, inspired by his father’s dedication to suicide prevention, and discusses the alarming statistics surrounding youth suicide and mental health challenges. This conversation sheds light on the importance of peer-to-peer support, emotional awareness, and the need for communities to recognize and address mental health issues proactively. Greg also provides valuable resources, including HopeSquad.com, for schools and parents seeking to implement effective mental health support systems.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.

Mental health and wellness are more than buzzwords; they’re the very foundation of a life lived fully and joyfully. In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, we journey into the core of well-being with Monica Wizinski, a masterful professional coach who’s made it her mission to help people reconnect with their authentic selves. With her deep expertise in conflict resolution and a remarkable talent for listening between the lines, Monica guides us through the complexities of modern life, particularly for young adults navigating a world that’s constantly buzzing. We discuss the significance of crafting a personal “village” of support, the art of slowing down amidst the chaos, and the undeniable truth that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s a necessity. Prepare for tangible advice on managing the noise, discovering real joy, and embracing the power of presence in a world that insists on speed. Monica illuminates the path to finding your inner center and cultivating a sense of peace that radiates outward, affecting every aspect of your life. If you’re seeking a way to anchor yourself in this whirlwind of existence and build a lasting sense of well-being, this episode is your compass to a more centered, vibrant, and truly healthy you.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.

In a world where genuine connection can feel scarce, understanding the power of empathy and vulnerability becomes essential for mental health and wellness. In this episode, we dive deep into the transformative work of the Shoulder Check Initiative with founder Rob Thorsen, who shares the deeply personal story behind its inception and its mission to encourage authentic human connection. Rob explains how the foundation, inspired by his son Hayden, works to dismantle barriers to vulnerability and promotes checking in on one another as a powerful tool for mental well-being. Discover how their innovative approaches, including a unique emoji and community events, aim to create a world where “making contact” is not just a tagline, but a way of life. Join us as Rob reveals the simple yet profound message that everyone has a hand to give and everyone might need a hand, inspiring listeners to embrace vulnerability and build stronger, more supportive communities.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.

In today’s highly digital and fast-paced world, kids have to deal with a ton of unnecessary distractions and pressure. Former NFL player Damian Gregory has been providing support to the underserved youth through his non-profit organization Gridiron G.A.N.G., helping them navigate the chaotic society and achieve profound success. In this conversation with Marc Lehman, he talks about his mission to guide the youth on overcoming the adversities of life, the pressures of social media, and the challenges of becoming an athlete. He also emphasizes the importance of taking care of your mental health, cultivating a resilient mindset, and finding stability in uncomfortable situations.