Best Susie Gurley Podcasts (2024)

1
Just Because Everything Looks OK on the Outside Doesn’t Mean it Is: Trevor 1:17:07

3d ago1:17:07

1:17:07

When I first started The Just A Mom podcast, I was only focused on interviewing parents of children who have struggled with mental health issues. That changed when I met with Trevor, and he shared the story of the last few years with me. Trevor is an adult who suffers from depression and suicidal ideation. Trevor was a middle school teacher and coa…

1
I’ll Never Not Worry: Kari 1:00:12

10d ago1:00:12

1:00:12

Kari was the first person (outside of my family) that I interviewed for The Just A Mom podcast. I’ve known Kari for many years. She is the wife of my oldest son’s high school football coach. My son was very close to him, and his tragic and early death in 2017 rocked our community. Kari is one of the many parents who have called me over the past few…

1
It's A Marathon, Not A Sprint: Kristen 50:12

21d ago50:12

50:12

This week we are re-airing the episode featuring Kristen. Kristen’s story is one of fear, patience, endurance, love, and hope. It’s also another example of how the mental health battle is a journey—more of a marathon than a sprint. Kristen and her husband have gone to great lengths to help their son with his mental illness. While Kristen’s son’s ba…

1
Back to the Beginning: Will 45:37

28d ago45:37

45:37

The Just A Mom podcast will be re-airing some of the earliest episodes of the podcast the next few weeks. The first re-air is the very first episode of The Just A Mom podcast with my son, Will. This show is the whole reason I became a mental health advocate and, ultimately, started the Just A Mom Podcast. Will is my youngest son, and he struggles w…

1
Season 5 Episode 13: Kyle Part 2 30:16

3M ago30:16

30:16

The final episode of Season 5 is the conclusion of Susie’s conversation with Kyle. Kyle shares candidly the many challenges he faced as the parent of a child struggling with depression and suicide attempts. Don’t miss this story of hope and perseverance that will undoubtedly encourage all.By Susie Gurley

1
Season 5 Episode 12: Kyle 37:13

3M ago37:13

37:13

In this episode of the Just A Mom podcast, Susie converses with Kyle about his journey as a parent raising a child grappling with mental health issues. Kyle delves into the hurdles he encountered in identifying early indicators and the opportunities for intervention. He sheds light on the struggles of securing suitable treatment and the toll it too…

1
Season 5 Episode 11: Ryan Lefebvre Part 2 43:45

3M ago43:45

43:45

This is the second in a two part series with Ryan LeFevbre, Kansas City Royals Announcer. Ryan continues his story by sharing more about his mental health journey and his road to healing. We discuss Ryan’s book, The Shame of Me: One Man’s Journey to Depression and Back (https://www.amazon.com/Shame-Mans-Journey-Depression-Back/dp/0984113029). Don’t…

1
Season 5 Episode 10: Ryan Lefebvre, Baseball Announcer for the Kansas City Royals 48:35

3M ago48:35

48:35

Podcast Episode Show Notes: "Ryan Lefebvre" In this episode of the Just A Mom podcast, Susie engages in a conversation with Ryan Lefebvre, the baseball announcer for the Kansas City Royals. Together, they delve into Ryan's profound journey through depression and his subsequent recovery. Ryan candidly shares his upbringing in a fractured family, she…

1
Season 5 Episode 9: Carron Montgomery, Licensed Professional Counselor and Author, Part 2 41:16

3M ago41:16

41:16

Podcast Episode Show Notes: "Carron Montgomery, Licenced Professional Counselor and Award-Winning Author Part 2" Introduction: Welcome back to the Just a Mom podcast! In this highly anticipated episode, Susie is joined once again by Carron Montgomery. Carron brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table, delving into topics ranging from n…

1
Season 5 Episode 8: Carron Montgomery, Licensed Professional Counselor and Author 33:54

4M ago33:54

33:54

Podcast Episode Show Notes: "Carron Montgomery, Licenced Professional Counselor and Award-Winning Author" Introduction: In this episode of the Just a Mom podcast, Susie introduces Carron Montgomery, a licensed professional counselor, registered play therapist, level two trained EMDR, and trauma specialist. Carron shares her wealth of knowledge and …

1
Season 5 Episode 7: Pat Aussem, The Partnership to End Addiction 57:25

4M ago57:25

57:25

On the latest episode of the Just a Mom Podcast, Susie brings in Pat Aussem, Vice President for Consumer Clinical Content Development at the Partnership to End Addiction. They delve into a conversation exploring the Partnership's goals and services, the intricate link between mental health and substance abuse, and the consequences of marijuana lega…

1
Season 5 Episode 6: Major General Gregg F. Martin, Part 2 35:03

4M ago35:03

35:03

Podcast Episode Show Notes, part 2: "Major General Gregg F. Martin" Introduction: In the second episode featuring Major General Gregg F. Martin conversation extends to the prevalence of bipolar disorder in the military, addressing the significant challenges faced by service members. Major General Martin underscores the persistent stigma surrounding…

1
Season 5 Episode 5: Major General Gregg F. Martin 36:46

4M ago36:46

36:46

Podcast Episode Show Notes: "Major General Gregg F. Martin" Introduction: In this episode of the Just A Mom podcast, Susie engages in a compelling conversation with Major General Gregg F. Martin, a combat veteran and resilient bipolar disorder survivor. Major General Martin candidly shares his tumultuous journey of grappling with bipolar disorder, …

1
Season 5, Episode 4: Meggin Part 2 44:10

5M ago44:10

44:10

Podcast Episode Show Notes, part 2: "Meggin Rose" Introduction: In the second part of the episode, Meggin reflects on her son's high school years, highlighting his compassionate nature. The narrative unfolds to reveal significant changes before college – a noticeable loss of energy and breakdowns in communication. Meggin courageously shares her son…

1
Season 5, Episode 3: Meggin Part 1 45:21

5M ago45:21

45:21

Podcast Episode Show Notes: "Meggin Rose" Introduction: Join us for a powerful and insightful Just A Mom podcast episode as Susie sits down with the remarkable Meggin Rose. In this emotional conversation, Meggin candidly shares her journey as a parent navigating the complex terrain of mental health challenges within her family. From the early signs…

1
Season 5, Episode 2: Dr. Samantha De Caro, The Renfrew Center 58:01

5M ago58:01

58:01

Introduction: In this episode of the JAM podcast, we explore eating disorders with Dr. Samantha DeCaro, a licensed clinical psychologist. Dr. DeCaro discusses the prevalence, causes, and prevention of eating disorders, touching on the complex relationship with mental health, anxiety, and depression. Pandemic's Impact on Eating Disorders: Isolation …

1
Season 5, Episode 1: Will Gurley 54:06

5M ago54:06

54:06

Introduction: Welcome to a special episode of the "Just A Mom" podcast, where we kick off Season Five with a heartfelt and personal update. In today's episode, Susie is excited to be joined in the studio by a very special guest – her son, Will. As Susie expresses her joy at having Will home for the recording, the focus of this episode is centered a…

1
Episode 13: Karen Dickson and Kathleen Harnish McKune, Remarkably Resilient (https://teamtechinc.com/remarkably-resilient/) 1:04:20

7M ago1:04:20

1:04:20

Podcast Episode Show Notes: "Kathleen McKune and Karen Dickson" Introduction: In this insightful episode, Karen and Kathleen, integral members of the resilient Harnish family, join Susie on the Just A Mom Podcast. Co-authors of the impactful book "Remarkably Resilient," the three sisters delve into their experiences, upbringing, and the profound mo…

1
Episode 12: Wesley Hamilton, Disabled But Not Really (https://disabledbutnotreally.org/) Part 2 38:58

7M ago38:58

38:58

Podcast Episode 2 Show Notes: "Wesley Hamilton" Introduction: The last episode of the Just a Mom podcast captures the life story of Kansas City native Wesley Hamilton. The episode explores Wesley's mental struggles, including battles with depression, hopelessness, and suicidal thoughts amid a lack of mental health support. Wesley Hamilton's impactf…

1
Episode 11: Wesley Hamilton, Disabled But Not Really (https://disabledbutnotreally.org/) 31:47

7M ago31:47

31:47

Introduction: In this episode of the Just a Mom podcast, host Susie welcomes Wesley Hamilton, a Kansas City native known for his personal struggles, foundation work, and TV stardom. Wesley reflects on his upbringing as a product of his challenging environment, growing up without his father, and battling low self-esteem and negative thinking. He sha…

1
Episode 10: Rennie McKinney, Administrative Director of Behavioral Health Services, AdventHealth Shawnee Mission 39:07

7M ago39:07

39:07

Podcast Episode Show Notes: "Rennie McKinney" Introduction: In this "Just A Mom" podcast episode, Susie engages with guest Rennie McKinney, Administrative Director of Behavioral Health Services at Advent Health Shawnee Mission. They delve into the evolving landscape of mental health, influenced by reduced stigma, younger generations' openness, and …

1
Episode 9: Coach Jareem Dowling, Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach, Kansas State University, Part 2 41:27

8M ago41:27

41:27

Season 4, Episode 9 Show Notes: "Coach Jareem Dowling" Introduction: In the first part of this episode, we've delved deeply into Coach Jareem Dowling's life, uncovering a powerful journey filled with moments of reflection, tragedy, and resilience. Coach Dowling's story underscores the significance of mental health awareness and the unwavering suppo…

1
Episode 8: Coach Jareem Dowling, Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach, Kansas State University 42:15

8M ago42:15

42:15

*WARNING–This episode contains explicit talk about suicide and methodology.* Introduction: In this episode of the "Just A Mom" podcast, Coach Jareem Dowling's life journey is explored, focusing on his coaching career at Kansas State University and the loss of his brother, Leo. The conversation underscores the importance of mental health awareness a…

1
Episode 7: Brenda and Faith Ferber 1:00:11

8M ago1:00:11

1:00:11

Introduction: In this episode, Susie Gurley welcomes Brenda and Faith Ferber to the podcast. Together, they embark on a deeply personal journey, exploring mental health, resilience, and the power of open communication. Brenda, the author of the impactful article 'My Daughter Told Me She Wanted to Die to Save Her Life I Gave Her Permission to End It…

1
Episode 6: Beth Part 2 43:52

8M ago43:52

43:52

This is a continuation of episode 4 with Beth. Beth’s son, Zach, suffered from anxiety, depression, and substance abuse ultimately cost him his life on March 25, 2019. Beth tells listeners that parents need to have open communication, and if you feel that something is wrong with your child you need to reach out for help. While Beth grieves the loss…

1
Episode 5: Beth 50:23

9M ago50:23

50:23

In this heartbreaking episode, Beth chronicles her son, Zach’s, early years and how his battle with anxiety, depression, and substance abuse started and ultimately cost him his life on March 25, 2019. Beth believes mental illness and substance abuse went hand-in-hand for Zach, and that Zach’s substance abuse started when he self-medicated with ille…

1
Episode 4: Jason Bohn, Chief Operating Officer and Director of Adolescent Services, Renew Counseling (anxietycenterkc.com) 56:49

9M ago56:49

56:49

Don’t miss this information-filled episode with Jason Bohn, who holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology and has almost 30 years of working with children, youth, and families. Jason’s career started in the child welfare system, and he developed the Renew Counseling Center Adolescent Intensive Outpatient Program for adolescents struggling with…

1
Episode 3: Kyle Roberts, What Rhymes With Reason movie (https://www.wrwrfilm.com/) 38:59

9M ago38:59

38:59

By Susie Gurley

1
Episode 2: Kristina Miller Part 2 35:31

9M ago35:31

35:31

This episode is a continuation of my conversation with Kristina Miller, mom of former Ohio State University football player Harry Miller. In this episode, Kristina recounts some of the fears and challenges of parenting an adult son with mental health issues. Kristina also gives us an update on the amazing things that Harry is doing now, including p…

1
Episode 1: Kristina Miller, mom of former Ohio State Football player Harry Miller 40:44

9M ago40:44

40:44

Harry medically retired from football in March of 2022, citing mental health issues. You may have seen him on the Today show (https://www.today.com/video/ohio-state-football-star-shares-emotional-message-about-mental-health-135841349622) discussing his battle and decision to retire from football. I knew when I saw Harry on the Today Show I wanted t…

1
Special Episode—Phyllis Fagell, author, Middle School Super Powers 37:25

10M ago37:25

37:25

Middle school is a tough time for everyone—kids, parents and teachers. Author, licensed clinical professional counselor and school counselor Phyllis Fagell joins me on this special episode of The Just A Mom podcast to talk about her recent book, Middle School Super Powers. This book is a practical and easy to read guide on helping middle schoolers …

1
Episode 14: Sonya Parker Goode, Director of Outreach and Partnerships, The Grant Halliburton Foundation (https://www.granthalliburton.org/) 41:15

11M ago41:15

41:15

I first learned about The Grant Halliburton Foundation when a college friend emailed me about it. After researching and learning about all of the work they do in North Texas in mental health education, collaboration, encouragement, and information, I knew I wanted to be part of their annual conference, “When Life Hands You Teenagers” ( https://www.…

1
Episode 13: Jennifer Part 2 38:53

11M ago38:53

38:53

This episode is a continuation of Jennifer’s story. Jennifer has done extensive research and been an incredible advocate for her son. Here are some links/definitions to things we talked about: TheraPlay PCIT - Parent-Child Interaction Therapy What is CBT Therapy? What is EMDR? Accelerated Resolution Therapy Problematic Sexual Behavior Therapy ABA T…

1
Episode 12: Jennifer 40:22

11M ago40:22

40:22

This incredible episode is about a young couple who fostered and eventually adopted a boy who was a student in Jennifer’s kindergarten classroom. He was in seven foster homes in five years (some were shelters). Jennifer and her husband became foster parents in their first year of marriage. This young boy had been abused sexually and physically and …

1
Episode 11: Stephanie and Dr. Caroline Danda, Licensed Clinical Psychologist (KS LP 1208) Specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Children and Adolescents 1:02:11

11M ago1:02:11

1:02:11

This is a unique episode in that Stephanie, a mom with a special needs child who also has anxiety and depression, requested that her son’s psychologist also be part of our conversation. Stephanie’s son had a stroke in utero that they discovered when he was 3 months old. He has cerebral palsy and an intellectual disability. At age 6, he had surgery …

1
Episode 10: Renee VanMeter and Jessica Murphy, Deputy Division Directors in Emergency Services, Johnson County Mental Health 1:02:24

12M ago1:02:24

1:02:24

Renee and Jessica are responsible for some of the crucial Johnson County, Kansas mental health services: the open access walk-in clinic, 988, the mobile crisis response team, and mental health co-responders. My conversation with Renee and Jessica solidified what I already knew—the country in which I live is incredibly fortunate to have the county m…

1
Episode 9: Jason Reid, Tellmystory.org 49:36

12M ago49:36

49:36

Jason Reid knows the pain of losing a child to suicide. His youngest son, Ryan, died by suicide in 2018. Jason has since dedicated his life to preventing other parents from experiencing the devastating loss of a child to suicide. Jason feels like by not being vulnerable with his kids he didn’t invite them to talk to him. He thinks we need to show k…

1
Episode 8: Courtney Part 2 51:35

12M ago51:35

51:35

This episode is a continuation of my conversation with Courtney. Courtney’s daughter’s mental health journey didn’t end in high school. Courtney recounts her daughter’s time at The Renfrew Center ( https://renfrewcenter.com/) well as her young, toxic marriage and subsequent inpatient hospitalization and intensive outpatient treatment at Hopeway (ht…

1
Episode 7: Courtney Part 1 53:33

1y ago53:33

53:33

Courtney’s story of parenting a child who has battled mental illness most of her life starts with the first of a two-part series. Courtney says her daughter has always been “the most”. Courtney’s daughter started struggling with anxiety around four years of age, survived a brain aneurism, and developed anorexia, all before graduating from high scho…

1
Episode 6: Dr. Brian Barash, M.D., Board Certified Psychiatrist in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Adult Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine 1:18:21

1y ago1:18:21

1:18:21

Dr. Brian Barash (www.cpa-kc.com) shares a wealth of mental health and substance abuse information on this episode of The Just A Mom podcast. Dr. Barash refers to several mental health facilities in the Kansas City area, including Marillac (https://www.kansashealthsystem.com/locations/Marillac-Campus-Overland-Park-KS), Crittenton ( https://www.sain…

1
Episode 5: Josh 1:17:01

1y ago1:17:01

1:17:01

Josh is a husband, father, triathlete, coach, and suicide survivor. As a teenager, he deliberately drove his car into a tree—and walked away. Josh recounts his long-time battle with depression, trauma, post-traumatic stress syndrome, and his complex relationship with an abusive father. Josh talks about his significant distrust of mental health prof…

1
Episode 4: Kori Hintz-Bohn, The Anxiety Center at Renew 45:34

1y ago45:34

45:34

In a continued effort to educate and bring resources to the listeners, this episode features Kori Hintz-Bohn, founder of Renew Counseling and the Anxiety Center at Renew (https://sites.google.com/anxietycenterkc.com/renewcounseling/home?authuser=0). Kori give parents valuable information on how to access help for a child experiencing mental health …

1
Episode 3: Tricia Part 2 1:02:01

1y ago1:02:01

1:02:01

Tricia and I continue our conversation about her daughter’s lifelong battle with anxiety. Not only has Tricia’s daughter had serious anxiety related to school, but Tricia also shares a memory about a very scary time when she was afraid for her daughter’s life and called 911. Tricia shares that she has learned, over time, that her job as a parent is…

1
Episode 2: Tricia 49:01

1y ago49:01

49:01

This is the first of a two-part series with Tricia. Tricia chronicles her daughter’s journey with anxiety, starting as early as preschool when she experienced significant separation anxiety that did not resolve with time. Tricia talks about her strong advocacy for her daughter’s needs at school. Tricia talks about Individualized Education Plan (IEP…

1
Episode 1: Ronda 1:14:21

1y ago1:14:21

1:14:21

My conversation with Rhonda is a no-holds-bared one. Her son battled an eating disorder and undiagnosed depression in high school. He found a bottle of narcotics after a family member’s surgery and took one to numb his pain—and was hooked. Ronda recounts the moment things changed when they realized her son had been hiding a fentanyl addiction for 3…

1
Special Episode: The Brightest It's Ever Been- Will and Kayli 29:59

1y ago29:59

29:59

My son, Will, and his girlfriend, Kayli, are back for another special episode of The Just A Mom podcast. After a very successful debut in December, The Brightest It's Ever Been, a play about living with anxiety, will be back for another limited engagement from May 11-13 at Hillcrest Covenant Church, 8801 Nall Avenue, Prairie Village, Kansas. This s…

1
Season 2 Episode 13: Good Faith Network 54:58

1y ago54:58

54:58

This inspiring episode features Vicki Love, co-vice president, and Jennifer Savner Levinson, treasurer, of The Good Faith Network (https://www.thegoodfaithnetwork.org/). The Good Faith Network is an interfaith justice group of over 20 different congregations in Johnson County, Kansas that has identified three pressing problems in our community: men…

1
Season 2 Episode 12: Sylvia Harrell and BJ Thomas, #GiveMe20 1:16:13

1+ y ago1:16:13

1:16:13

For Sylvia Harrell and BJ Thomas, convincing young people that waiting just 20 minutes when contemplating suicide is personal. They have both lost children to suicide, and neither of their children gave any indication they were contemplating taking their lives. Sylvia and BJ want to make sure others have the tools to cope when dark moments arise. L…

1
Season 2 Episode 11: Erin Part 2 37:31

1+ y ago37:31

37:31

On this episode of the Just A Mom Podcast, Erin talks about the challenges of parenting a son with bi-polar disorder. She shares about his in-patient hospitalization, and how those were some of the most challenging days of her life. Erin also talks about her son’s transition to college during COVID, and how having an emotional support animal (ESA) …

1
Season 2 Episode 10: Erin Part 1 42:57

1+ y ago42:57

42:57

On this episode of the Just A Mom Podcast, Erin talks about the challenges of parenting a son with bi-polar disorder. She shares about his in-patient hospitalization, and how those were some of the most challenging days of her life. Erin also talks about her son’s transition to college during COVID, and how having an emotional support animal (ESA) …

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Susie Gurley Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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