Best National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI Podcasts (2025)

1
Living With Anxiety and Thriving as Young Adults Featuring Srihitha Dasari, Nadiyah Fisher, Anuj Gandhi, and Caitlyn Jennings 1:00:32

8h ago1:00:32

1:00:32

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 exp…

1
From Conflict to Care: Rethinking Police Response 36:22

1d ago36:22

36:22

Joining me today are Beth Roach with Mental Health America of Northern Kentucky and Southwest Ohio, and Montgomery Police Officers James Martin and Rasheed Kassem. We discuss Mental Health Crisis Intervention Teams and how they have changed how police departments respond to mental health-related calls. Mental Health America of Northern Kentucky and…

1
Take Time to Recharge Featuring David Ko 48:08

6d ago48:08

48:08

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 men…

1
Alzheimer's and Dementia Caregivers 55:32

12d ago55:32

55:32

In this episode, we explore the challenges and triumphs of Alzheimer's and dementia caregivers. Hear personal stories, expert advice, and practical tips to support those caring for loved ones with these conditions. Join us for an insightful and heartfelt discussion on navigating the journey of caregiving. Learn more at https://www.alz.org/cincinnat…

1
Braver Through Hope With NAMI HelpLine Volunteers Featuring Megan Rochford, Madison Rubert, and Dave Tippett 37:49

23d ago37:49

37:49

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 …

1
Caring for Communities After Traumatic Events Featuring Erin Raftery Ryan and Dr. Shauna "Doc" Springer 53:56

29d ago53:56

53:56

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 “…

1
Medicaid and Mental Health: What Changes Could Mean for Our Community Featuring Sue Abderholden, Anita Burgos, and Hannah Wesolowski 29:53

1M ago29:53

29:53

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, w…

1
Dementia and Alzheimer's - Communication and Connection 34:13

2M ago34:13

34:13

In this episode, we explore practical strategies and compassionate insights to foster meaningful communication with loved ones facing dementia or Alzheimer's. Learn how to navigate memory loss, decode nonverbal cues, and create moments of connection through patience, empathy, and understanding. Whether you're a caregiver or family member, this epis…

1
EP 49: Jesus, Moses, the Buddha and Muhammad Walk Into a Bar… with Rev. Dave Carpenter 34:38

1M ago34:38

34:38

What if the path to healing our divided world isn’t found in power or politics—but in realizing that we belong to each other? In this powerful and thought-provoking episode of the Crazy Amazing Humans Podcast, we sit down with Rev. David Carpenter, senior pastor of Brentwood Presbyterian Church in Los Angeles, to explore how faith, inclusivity, and…

1
Mental Health is Health Featuring Elliott Connie 48:01

1M ago48:01

48:01

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 …

1
10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's 39:09

2M ago39:09

39:09

In this episode, we delve into the 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease, providing listeners with vital insights to recognize early symptoms in themselves or their loved ones. From memory lapses to changes in mood or behavior, we break down each sign with clarity and compassion. Join us as we highlight the importance of early detection, share ex…

1
10 Years of Stepping Up With the National Association of Counties Featuring Matthew D. Chase 46:59

2M ago46:59

46:59

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…

1
Dementia and Alzheimer's Introduction 54:13

2M ago54:13

54:13

In this episode, we delve into the profound challenges faced by individuals and families affected by dementia and Alzheimer's disease. We explore the emotional, physical, and financial toll these conditions take, and discuss the latest research and treatments aimed at improving quality of life. Through personal stories and expert interviews, we she…

1
Honoring Women in Mental Health Featuring Jamie Gray Hyder, Alessandra Torresani, and DeWanda Wise 39:37

2M ago39:37

39:37

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 Tor…

1
What Employees Need for Their Mental Health Featuring Darcy Gruttadaro and Brit Wanstrath 25:27

2M ago25:27

25:27

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 Initiati…

1
Understanding Lived Experience With Eating Disorders Featuring Johanna Kandel and Alexandra Miles 45:25

3M ago45:25

45:25

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. Connec…

1
How To Care for Neighbors After Traumatic Events Featuring Erin Raftery Ryan and Dr. Shauna "Doc" Springer 44:32

3M ago44:32

44:32

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 St…

1
EP 48: From Music Mogul to Justice Warrior; Jason Flom Rocks the Criminal Justice System 38:05

3M ago38:05

38:05

We’re in the studio with Jason Flom, a legendary music industry executive, criminal justice advocate, and podcast host who has shaped the careers of global superstars while fighting to free the wrongfully convicted. Flom is the founder and CEO of Lava Records, former Chairman and CEO of Atlantic Records, Virgin Records, and Capitol Music Group. He …

1
Ensuring Mental Health Access for All Featuring Darcy Gruttadaro and Stephanie Robertson 36:43

3M ago36:43

36:43

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 fo…

1
EP 47: WE LOVE L.A. w/ Roger Fishman and Ken Carlson 30:04

4M ago30:04

30:04

A conversation between our hosts, Katrina and Jefferson, and guests, Roger Fishman and Ken Carlson, about experiencing the recent devastating Los Angeles wildfires. It is difficult to find the words to describe the unimaginable devastation affecting so many and beyond heartbreaking to see all of the different communities affected by the many wildfi…

1
Respect for Lived Experience With Schizophrenia and Psychosis Featuring Dr. Ken Duckworth 26:18

4M ago26:18

26:18

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 ca…

1
New Year, More Impact With NAMI – Episode 60 30:55

4M ago30:55

30:55

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, …

1
Healing Together: Family Grief with Ann Marie Kahwaty-Bogan 34:48

4M ago34:48

34:48

In this episode, we’re joined by Ann Marie Kahwaty-Bogan, MSW, LISW, CCTP, from Companions on a Journey, to explore the profound impact of family grief and how to navigate it together. With her expertise in trauma and years of experience supporting grieving families, Ann Marie offers compassionate insights into the grieving process, the unique chal…

1
Grief During the Holidays 29:30

5M ago29:30

29:30

Grieving during the holidays can be especially difficult, as the season often emphasizes family gatherings and joy, which may intensify feelings of loss. People mourning may experience sadness, loneliness, or anxiety, as traditions and celebrations can trigger painful memories. It's important to acknowledge these emotions and allow yourself time to…

1
Reflections on NAMI's Growth – Episode 59 9:20

5M ago9:20

9:20

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’…

1
Care Solace - 24/7/365 Mental Health and Social Service Care Coordination 23:26

6M ago23:26

23:26

Finding mental health care can add stress to an already stressful situation. That’s why we've partnered with Care Solace, a new central hub of care for all of your mental health needs. With a network of over 560,000 licensed mental health providers and substance use treatment services, Care Solace will help you find the right help at the right time…

1
Suicide Prevention and the Legislative Process – Episode 58 24:49

6M ago24:49

24:49

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, listener…

1
Childhood Grief 26:08

6M ago26:08

26:08

In this episode we talk about children and grief. November is National Childhood Grief Awareness Month. An estimated 6 million children in the US will experience the death of a parent or sibling by age 18. Laura Holmes, a program manager with Companions on a Journey, will be with us. Helpful Links Companions on a Journey City of Montgomery…

1
EP 46: Fighting Hunger, Changing Lives; Navyn Salem and Edesia 40:20

6M ago40:20

40:20

It’s unimaginable, but each year about 45 million children worldwide suffer from severe malnutrition — that’s nearly one in three children under the age of five. Thankfully, there is hope! We’re thrilled to introduce our guest, Navyn Salem, founder and CEO of Edesia. Edesia, a Rhode Island-based nonprofit, is on a mission to tackle this global cris…

1
Leading and Living with Bipolar Disorder – Episode 57 31:32

6M ago31:32

31:32

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 …

1
The Healing Power of Art – Episode 56 31:21

7M ago31:21

31:21

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 ph…

1
Behind the Youth-Led Movement to Reform Social Media 22:24

7M ago22:24

22:24

NAMI NextGen member Daniella Ivanir interviews Ava Smithing, a youth advocate for safer tech and youth mental health. Ava shares what it was like growing up as part of the first social media generation, her struggles with online harms, and the turning point that led her to protect future generations. They discuss the toll of advocacy, pushing back …

1
Brian Valasek - The Difference Between Stress, Anxiety and Depression 15:56

7M ago15:56

15:56

In this episode, we break down the differences between stress, anxiety, and depression. Learn how each affects mental health, their unique symptoms, and when to seek help. Brian Valasek is dedicated to helping you step out of your comfort zone to discover your most authentic self. Courageously facing your core problem head-on may be the most diffic…

1
Running for Mental and Physical Health in the Black Community – Episode 55 51:32

7M ago51:32

51:32

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,…

1
Psychology Misinformation on TikTok 30:16

7M ago30:16

30:16

Compared to other generations, I think youth have come a very long way in acknowledging and working to better mental health. However, there are certain trends we see on social media with good intentions, but harmful consequences. Today we’re talking about self- diagnoses of mental illnesses and the prominence of “therapy speak.” We had the pleasure…

1
Brian Valasek: The Difference Between Therapy and Psychiatric Care 25:05

7M ago25:05

25:05

In this episode, we explore the differences between therapy and psychiatric care. Learn how traditional talk therapy addresses emotional and behavioral issues, while psychiatric therapy involves medical treatment, including medication. Discover how these approaches can complement each other to provide comprehensive care for mental health and well-b…

1
A Journey to Great Family Support – Episode 54 15:52

8M ago15:52

15:52

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 su…

1
Dr. Tracy Cummings - Suicidal Ideation, Signs, and Treatment 47:19

8M ago47:19

47:19

In this episode, we dive into the sensitive but important topic of suicidal ideation, exploring the warning signs, underlying causes, and available treatments. We break down how to recognize when someone might be struggling, the various forms these thoughts can take, and ways to offer support. With insights from Dr. Tracy Cummings, we aim to provid…

1
Don Scalf and Rasheed Kassem - Helping Those Who Help Others 50:59

8M ago50:59

50:59

Cincinnati Police Sergeant Don Skalf has been a Cincinnati police officer for 25 years. Don is assigned to the Officer Wellness Unit. Don shared his story about his suicide attempt during the Montgomery Suicide Prevention panel discussion on August 29, 2024. Montgomery Police Officer Rasheed Kassem has been in law enforcement for 18 years, nearly t…

1
Nancy Eigel-Miller - Founder of 1N5 16:45

8M ago16:45

16:45

The City of Montgomery began researching mental health issues as a result of a community survey health assessment conducted in 2019. The assessment identified mental health issues as a top concern. This was compounded by the effects of the pandemic. As a result, the Administration and City Council created a mental health initiative that provides ed…

1
Kevin Hines - Surviving Jumping Off the Golden Gate Bridge 6:27

8M ago6:27

6:27

At 19 years old, Kevin Hines attempted to take his life by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s a jump few people survive. Hines says he regretted his decision as soon as he jumped and prayed to survive. He hit the water at 75 mph and broke several bones, but a sea lion kept him afloat until rescuers arrived. Today, he doesn’t take one day for …

1
EP 45: How Women In Prison Are Finding Healing & Hope Through Restorative Art 33:41

8M ago33:41

33:41

Did you know that women are the fastest-growing population in prison? Ever wondered why? In this eye-opening episode, we dive deep into this critical issue and more with Martha Ackerman and Stephanie Segel, the founders of Create: New Beginnings. This transformative program harnesses the power of artistic expression to help incarcerated women confr…

1
Understanding High-Functioning Depression 25:31

8M ago25:31

25:31

On this episode Tamahina Pierrot speaks with Dr Judith Joseph - a psychiatrist who is famous for her reels on social media about high-functioning depression, how it is different from regular depression, and the impact anhedonia can have on you. Produced by: Tamahina Pierrot, Brad Gage, and Haley Amering Featuring: Tamahina Pierrot and Dr. Judith Jo…

1
Moving Forward After Loss – Episode 53 30:28

8M ago30:28

30:28

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 w…

1
Helping Caregivers Show Up for Youth Mental Health – Episode 52 33:49

8M ago33:49

33:49

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…

1
Mental Health for Third Culture Kids – Episode 51 15:40

9M ago15:40

15:40

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 episod…

1
Parenting a Child Through Mental Illness 35:45

9M ago35:45

35:45

In this episode, NAMI-NYS NextGen member MacKenzie Wood talks with her mother, Mandee Puleo, about her experience parenting children with mental illnesses. The two openly discuss Amanda's experiences in trying to support and address MacKenzie’s illness, hospital visits, and multiple diagnoses, while also feeling inadequate and incompetent as a pare…

1
Vulnerability is Our Superpower – Episode 50 34:29

9M ago34:29

34:29

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 c…

1
Strong Black Women Need Help Too – Episode 49 47:54

10M ago47:54

47:54

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 Ambass…

1
Mental Health Care in Minoritized Communities – Episode 48 39:25

10M ago39:25

39:25

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, n…

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National Alliance On Mental Illness (NAMI Podcasts

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