The Depression Files

Al Interviews Raymond Baxter | Mental Health Activist, Cryptocurrency Enthusiast & Founder of The Relationship Blogger

In this episode, Al interviews Raymond Baxter, mental health activist, cryptocurrency enthusiast, and found of The Relationship Blogger (recorded 2-25-20). Raymond grew up with extreme anxiety and a susceptibility to depression. He recalls his first panic attack at the age of eight years old. At the age of thirteen, he lost a father-figure to a fast-moving stomach cancer. This threw Raymond into a spiral of poor behavior and bad choices. He started drinking and taking drugs. He was kicked off the prestigious Scottish National Golf Team and simply quit attending school.

His mother finally sent him from Scotland to England to live with his father. At age nineteen, Raymond began to work for his father, but that job only lasted a few months. Because of his high level of anxiety and depression, Raymond continued to drink heavily. After a five-day bender, Raymond experienced delirium tremens, shakes, hallucinations, and extreme paranoia. After getting locked in a stranger's house that Raymond was trying to run through, as he believed he was being chased by people with guns, the police were called and brought Raymond to the psychiatric hospital for his first in-patient hospitalization. Hear this story, in addition to more delusional episodes that land him in the hospital two more times, with one voluntary stay that Raymond had anticipated would be three days, but lasted six months!

Raymond is the founder of The Relationship Blogger. You can also find Raymond on Twitter @relationblogger and on Facebook @relationshipblogger.

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In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Chris Agudo | Delivery Driver, Suicide Attempt Survivor, Author & Cofounder of Living Is So Big

In this episode, Al interviews Chris Agudo, delivery driver, suicide attempt survivor, author, and cofounder of Living Is So Big (recorded 2-24-20). Chris can put his finger on four things that occurred in a short period of time that threw him into a dangerous, downward spiral of depression; 1) unrelenting, unexplained massive headaches, 2) a broken relationship, 3) poor grades, and 4) a tragic accident that killed two of his friends.

Chris decided to visit his brother and a friend for a final goodbye before he would end his life. After an attempted suicide in the middle of the night in the woods, followed immediately by an unexpected outpouring of love and care, Chris spent seven days in a psychiatric hospital. It was while he was hospitalized that a doctor shared with his father that he needed to make sure Chris had reasons to live. His dad, without hesitation, created a campaign titled "Living Is So Big".

When Chris got out of the hospital, he and his parents took several road trips to share their campaign with others. They spoke at public events, passed out bracelets, and asked others to share what they were grateful for. Together, Chris and his father have written several books.

Find out more about Chris and his campaign at LivingIsSoBig.org.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Tom Cronin | Retreat Host, Meditation Teacher, Coach, Keynote Speaker, Author & Film Producer

In this episode, Al interviews Tom Cronin, retreat host, meditation teacher, coach, keynote speaker, author, and film producer (recorded 2-17-20). Tom shares his story of working on the floor for 26 years in finance markets as one of Sydney’s leading bond and swap brokers. Tom started this job at the young age of nineteen. Receiving a company sports car and taking clients out for expensive meals and drinks, he was living the dream. However, after eight years of this lifestyle, depression had crept into his life and resulted in what the doctor described as a "nervous breakdown".

Tom took some time off of work. It was at this time that Tom discovered meditation. He noticed the benefits immediately and began to study and practice meditation on a regular basis. This helped him survive back at his old job for another sixteen years. For the last couple of years at the job, however, Tom started to develop a business plan that would allow him to follow his life's passion of supporting others in utilizing mediation for their own transformation.

Tom now hosts retreats, coaches, speaks and teaches meditation. Tom has written several books and recently launched a book and documentary called, The Portal. The Portal is an experiential documentary created as part of a bold, global vision to overcome the chronic levels of anxiety, depression, PTSD and trauma that we are facing today.

You can find out much more about Tom and the services he provides at tomcronin.com. You can find out more about The Portal and see the trailer here.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Andy Grant | Transformational Energy Coach, Founder of Real Men Feel, Best Selling Author & Suicide Attempt Survivor

In this episode, Al interviews Andy Grant, transformational energy coach, founder of Real Men Feel, best-selling author & suicide attempt survivor (recorded 2-11-20). At age five, Andy began to be molested by a neighbor who was a family friend. He experienced suicidal thoughts from the very young age of eight years old and had his first, of many, attempts at twelve. At age fifteen, in a five-minute appointment based solely on a hereditary factor, Andy was diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

Andy would tell school counselors and therapists what he believed they wanted to hear, yet five of his suicide attempts landed him in a psychiatric hospital and several different diagnoses. One in-patient hospitalization during his high school days involved medications that had a toxic effect that led to full body tremors and tactile hallucinations. The doctors had claimed that they believed his friends had brought him LSD, yet much later in life Andy retrieved the paperwork that actually stated that he had had a toxic reaction to being over medicated.

Andy is the author of "Still Here: How to Succeed in Life After Failing At Suicide" and several other books. He is the founder of the podcast, website and blog titled Real Men Feel. You can find out much more about Andy and his work on his website at TheAndyGrant.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Brock Wilbur | Political Reporter & Standup Comedian

In this episode, Al interviews Brock Wilbur, political reporter and standup comedian (recorded 2-5-20). Brock describes a life with several suicide attempts, one as young as 3rd or 4th grade. He describes losing many friends who would simply disappear from his life with no known reason. Until, that is, one day when a friend called Brock's wife to explain that Brock had broken into her apartment and ranted at her for about an hour about a treasure map that didn't exist. She was especially concerned recognizing that he was neither drunk nor on drugs.

Two years ago, after Brock's friend expressed her concern, Brock and his wife decided it would be good to see a doctor. He was diagnosed with rapid cycling bipolar disorder. This diagnosis helped him start to piece together what had happened to the many friendships he had lost.

As a political reporter, hear how Brock fell into a situation where he was one of the journalists who helped expose the NXIVM cult to the world.

Brock has three standup albums on iTunes. You can find out much more about Brock on his website at brockwilbur.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Immanuel Jones | YouTuber, Certified Life Coach & Mental Health Advocate

In this episode, Al interviews Immanuel Jones, YouTuber, certified life coach, and mental health advocate (recorded 2-3-20). Immanuel believes he struggled with depression since elementary school. He always wondered why everybody else at school seemed happy and was able to have fun. Throughout much of middle school, Immanuel wanted to sleep and not wake up. It wasn't until high school that he realized there was an issue with his mental health. However, it wasn't until much later that he'd finally reach out for help.

Things got worse in college. Immanuel spiraled down after a breakup while interning in Italy his junior year. After drinking straight from a bottle, blacking out, and getting mugged, Immanuel barely made it back to the US. Heavy drugs and alcohol led to a second attempted suicide. He continued to mask his way through college and finally reached out for help after contemplating a third suicide attempt several years later.

After being treated for bipolar disorder for a year with little improvement, Immanuel was told by another psychiatrist that he had been misdiagnosed. He was recently given a new diagnosis of major depression and general anxiety disorder. With new medications and treatment, Immanuel has been improving and is now quite hopeful.

You can find out more about Immanuel and see his incredible, creative videos on his YouTube page. You'll also find his group on Facebook at DT Nation and his Depression Talks Podcast on Spotify. If you'd like to inquire about life coaching with Immanuel, you can email him at immanueljones@outlook.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Dr. Dan Crocker | Poet & College Professor

In this episode, Al interviews Dr. Dan Crocker, poet and college professor (recorded 8-26-17). Dan describes his first panic attack at age sixteen. At age 43, Dan was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Dan describes his first mania in which he had only one hour of sleep in a six-day period of time, as well as experiencing delusions.

Dan has written several books including, Do Not Look Directly Into Me, The Cornstalk Man, Shit House Rat, just to name a few. He and his wife host the podcast, Sanesplaining. You'll find Dan on Facebook @Sanesplaining and  Tweeting @Sanesplaining.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

 

Al Interviews Donald ”Skip” G. Mondragon II | Internal Medicine Physician, 26-Year Army Veteran, Author & Mental Health Advocate

In this episode, Al interviews Donald "Skip" G. Mondragon II, internal medicine physician, 26-year army veteran, author, and mental health advocate (recorded 1-10-19). Skip grew up with seven siblings. After returning from the Korean War, his father battled mental illness, was in and out of the VA Hospital, and sadly died when Skip was only thirteen years old. Skip was bullied throughout elementary school, until he joined the wrestling team in eighth grade. Wrestling became a huge part of Skip's life.

After struggling and leaving Notre Dame after his fifth semester, Skip left the university as he had "felt a calling from God". Skip soon returned to another university to finish his undergraduate degree and enter medical school on a military scholarship. With the army came a 26-year career and four deployments, three of which were in combat zones. As Skip approached retirement in 2014, he found himself curled up in fetal position behind a desk in his dark office for four hours. At that point, Skip knew he needed to reach out for support.

After retiring and getting a handle on his depression, Skip won a publishing contest.  His book, Wrestling Depression Is Not for Wimps: Lessons Learned from an Amateur Wrestler’s Fight to Triumph Over Depression, is due to be published in the very near future. Check out Skip's website in order to find out more about him and his book!

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Sam Miltich | Jazz Guitarist & Mental Health Advocate

In this episode, Al interviews Sam Miltich, jazz guitarist and mental health advocate (recorded 12-16-19). At the age of 18 and living in his rural hometown in northern Minnesota, Sam was discovered by a Minnesota Public Radio reporter and his jazz career skyrocketed. This young, small town jazz musician joined Paul Mehling's Hot Club of San Francisco and started touring internationally with the world-renowned Robin Nolan Trio.

At the age of twenty-two, Sam was stricken with a major psychotic episode. He encountered delusions including believing that he was the antichrist and that anything he came into contact with was doomed. He hid for hours in a closet in order to prepare for solitary confinement, as he believed the CIA were coming to find him. Sam entered a partial hospitalization program and went from a diagnosis of depression with psychotic features, to schizoaffective disorder, and finally to paranoid schizophrenia.

Sam's second psychotic episode occurred at the age of thirty, as he was heavily impacted by the stigma of mental illness while attempting to wean himself from his medications. This episode lasted a full year.

Today, not only does Sam share his music professionally, but also his story of living with schizophrenia in a performance that he calls, The Improvised Life. You can learn much more about Sam by visiting his website at www.sammiltichmusic.com. You'll also find him on Facebook at Sam Miltich Music.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Joe Dwyer | Author, Animal Chaplain, Certified Pet Loss Counselor, Dog Trainer & Public Speaker

In this episode, Al interviews Joe Dwyer, author, animal chaplain, certified pet loss counselor, dog trainer, and public speaker (recorded 11-18-19). Joe describes growing up with psoriasis that covered his body from head to toe. Due to his extreme case of psoriasis, classmates referred to Joe as, "The Creeping Crud". Joe describes how, as an adult, there was a day in which he crumbled to the floor of his kitchen that was the start of a two-week period of major depression.

Joe wrote a book titled, "Shelby's Grace", a story about rallying back stronger, while helping those in need. Shelby’s story of hope is an excellent resource for anyone looking to become stronger emotionally. Joe is an animal chaplain and a public speaker. Learn much more about Joe and how to work with him by going to his website, Noble Strength.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Kenny | Elementary School Teacher & Mental Health Advocate

In this episode, Al interviews Kenny, an elementary school teacher and mental health advocate (recorded 10-21-19). Kenny shares how he struggled with depersonalization-derealization disorder (DPDR) for eight years and actually never received a diagnosis. He describes the pain, the muscle and body fatigue, the sleep issues, and the challenge of dealing with emotions and relationships while dealing with the disorder.

While Kenny put in a great amount of effort into recovering from what, at the time, was an unknown illness to him, he can share the exact date in which his DPDR was resolved. Kenny shares what that day was like, as a rush of emotions came crashing over him and his pain suddenly vanished. Although the DPDR has resolved, he is currently struggling to put together the emotional pieces of the past eight years.

Kenny now has a website, The Outside The Box Project, in the hopes of educating others about DPDR.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Gabriel Nathan | Editor-in-Chief of OC87 Recovery Diaries & Board Member of Prevent Suicide PA

In this episode, Al interviews Gabriel Nathan, editor-in-chief of OC87 Recovery Diaries and a Board Member of Prevent Suicide PA (recorded 11-4-19). Gabe shares how he was bullied from elementary school through his freshman year of college. While he struggled from an early age with depression and anxiety, he was not diagnosed until his sophomore year of college.

Gabe shares his interesting path to becoming the editor-in-chief of OC87 Recovery Diaries, which included working as an EMT and five years as a front-line staff member at a locked in-patient psychiatric hospital.

In addition to his work with OC87 Recovery Diaries, Gabe drives a 1963 VW Beatle; a "Herbie the Love Bug" replica. The back window of his Beatle is adorned with the telephone number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Gabe recently took an eleven-day, 1300 mile journey with Herbie in order to spread suicide awareness. His journey is being made into a full-length film. You can see a teaser of the film here.

You can find out more about Gabe at OC87 Recovery Diaries. You'll also find Gabe on Facebook...and Herbie, too! Finally, you'll find OC87 Recovery Diaries on Instagram at recovery_diaries and on Twitter @OC87rd.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Dale Curd | Psychotherapist, Host of CBC’s ”Hello Goodbye” & Founder of The Men’s List

In this interview, Al interviews Dale Curd, psychotherapist, host of CBC's Hello Goodbye, and founder of The Men's List (recorded 10-7-19). After a second failed marriage, losing a job, and finding himself in debt, Dale fell into a deep depression. Eventually, he found refuge by attending a men's support group. Several years later, Dale was trained to be a facilitator of a group, and eventually found himself running the groups for twelve years.

Dale shares with us the importance of selecting a therapist who is the right fit. He also describes how he became the host of CBC's Hello Goodbye, a show in which Dale interviewed strangers at an airport as they were saying "Hello" or "Goodbye" to a loved one or a friend. He also describes The Men's List, a website he has created that is rich in content and contains an online listing of mental health professionals who provide expert, gender competent services and support to men. 

To learn more about Dale, check out his website at dalecurd.com. You'll also find him on Twitter @dalecurd and on Facebook at Dale Curd and @menslist.directory.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Mark Henick | Mental Health Advocate & Public Speaker

In this episode, Al interviews Mark Henick, mental health advocate and public speaker (recorded 9-16-19). Mark is the principal and CEO of Strategic Mental Health Solutions and previously served as the youngest president of a provincial Canadian Mental Health Association division. His TEDx talk, Why We Choose Suicide, is among the most watched in the world with over 6 million views.

Mark shares his personal story of depression that includes seven hospitalizations between the ages of twelve and sixteen. He describes a "cocktail" of medications that, at one point, most likely led to the development of seizures. Mark describes being pulled from the edge of a bridge at the age of fifteen and over a decade later tracking down the stranger who saved his life in order to thank him.

Mark also describes his ongoing recovery, relapses, the importance of a safety plan, his current advocacy and his podcast, "The So Called Normal". Mark is currently finishing a memoir that is due to be published within the next year. You can find out much more about Mark and how to book him for an event on his website. You'll also find him on Facebook @markhenick. Finally, you'll find Mark Tweeting @markhenick.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Logan Lynn | American Musician, Writer, Producer, Filmmaker, TV Personality, Mental Health Advocate & LGBT Activist.

In this episode, Al interviews Logan Lynn, American musician, writer, producer, filmmaker, TV personality, mental health advocate, and LGBT Activist (recorded 9-9-19). Logan shares his incredible story of surviving childhood sexual abuse and the impact it had on his entire family. He describes being outed by a therapist after sharing with him that he was gay. Logan also shares how the music scene and his early popularity fueled his 16-year addiction of cocaine, alcohol, and crack. It wasn't until he suffered a TIA (a mini-stroke) and entered a program specifically for dual diagnoses (addiction & mental health) that he was able to finally become healthy.

Logan received the prestigious 2017 Award of Excellence from the National Council for Behavioral Health for his advocacy work in music, TV, film and community, and for founding the Keep Oregon Well campaign to fight the stigma of mental illness. In 2018 Kink FM named him one of The Portland 50, honoring the people who “dreamt, built and championed the innovation, growth and uniqueness of Portland”. His "My Movie Star" is currently up for three Grammy Awards.

You can find out more about Logan on his website. You'll also find him on Facebook, Twitter and on Instagram.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews John Panigas | Executive Coach & Author

In this episode, Al interviews John Panigas, executive coach and author (recorded 8-21-19). Although John spent approximately 58 years struggling with depression, as the president of The Panigas Group of Companies, he helped grow them to become a $100 million business in twenty years. Hear how John met a therapist, received hypnotherapy, and finally started his true recovery.

For the past twelve years, John has worked as an executive coach. He is also the author of Crazy, Who Me?, in which John describes his journey of leading with depression. John is also about to roll out a new workshop based on his RESTORE model of understanding and overcoming depression.

You can find out much more about John on his website at johnpanigas.com and you'll find him tweeting @jpanigas. Finally, you will also find him on Facebook.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Michael Landsberg | TV/Radio Host, Mental Health Advocate & Founder of Sick Not Weak

In this episode, Al interviews Michael Landsberg, longtime TV/radio host on TSN, mental health advocate, and founder of Sick Not Weak (recorded 8-7-19). Michael shares how he followed his heart and broke into the field of television and radio broadcasting. He shares his story of depression and describes the one interview, an interview with NHL player Stéphane Richer, that drove him to utilize his notoriety and platform to continue to speak publicly on the topic of mental health.

In addition to continuing his career at TSN, this incredibly passionate, outspoken mental health advocate founded Sick Not Weak. In addition to the website, you can find Sick Not Weak on FaceBook and Twitter @SickNotWeak. Michael also has his own Twitter account @HeyLandsberg.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Justin Peck | Professional Off-Road Racer, Mental Health Advocate & Author of Bulletproof

In this episode, Al interviews Justin Peck, professional off-road racer, mental health advocate, and author of Bulletproof (recorded 7-22-19). Justin shares his story of being severely bullied as a child, having depression symptoms at age nine, and bipolar disorder symptoms since age thirteen. He was finally diagnosed with bipolar disorder at the age of twenty-six, after a suicide attempt.

A natural story-teller and a passionate, caring mental health advocate, Justin describes how he got into off-road motorcycling. He also describes the day of his suicide attempt and the moment of irrationality in which he nearly killed himself.

Justin's popular memoir, Bulletproof, describes the challenges he has had living with bipolar disorder and the perseverance he needed in order to overcome many tragic moments. Justin is a Mental Health America (MHA) Ambassador and shares his story publicly at every opportunity in order to support others living with a mental illness. You can find out much more about Justin, find resources, and learn how to book him to speak publicly by visiting his website. You'll also find Justin on Twitter @Justinpeck49 and on Facebook.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Michael J Nanna | Former University Professor, Former Police Officer & Singer-Songwriter

In this episode, Al interviews Michael J Nanna, former university professor, former police officer, and singer song writer (recorded 7-15-19). Michael struggled with anxiety from a very young age. Once in college, Michael studied psychology particularly hoping to get some answers regarding his own mental health struggles. During his undergrad years, he experienced his first panic attack. Michael went on to graduate school and started seeing a psychiatrist, as his panic attacks increased.

After receiving a PhD in statistics, Michael worked in the field of academia for several years until losing the position due to a reorganization of the staff. By this point, he was also experiencing depression for the first time. Michael then decided to try something completely different. He followed his heart and joined the police academy. After a back injury and an FMLA lawsuit, Michael decided to return to academia. However, after only a year in this position and with absolutely no notice, Michael was let go. Around the same time, he lost his mother, had a daughter with his wife of the time, then went through a divorce, and had to deal with financial hardships. This led to Michael's second bout of major depression. Michael shares the challenges of multiple changes of meds and an intensive outpatient program.

Michael is now focused on his musical career. Michael has on solo album titled Karmic Clutter. You can find it on Amazon or iTunes. Michael also has a website and a YouTube channel. You'll also find him on Twitter @mjnanna, Instagram @mjnanna67, and Facebook.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Cory Strathman | Mental Health Advocate and Former Principal

In this episode, Al interviews Cory Strathman, mental health advocate and former principal (recorded 7-11-19). Cory describes working in the high stress role of the principal of an elementary school. After a smooth first couple of years, Cory received a call from his younger brother stating that he had cancer. This was the start of a mental spiral downward. While Cory's wife realized what was going on, she also pointed out that this was not the first time she had seen Cory in a similar state of mind and urged him to seek help.

Cory reluctantly started medication. However, he took them inconsistently and was faced with another downward spiral. Cory started to self-medicate with alcohol and knew he needed more help. He finally agreed to try some counseling and even attended in-patient and out-patient programs. However, his drinking became out of control and it wasn't until he was charged with "driving under the influence" (DUI) and "leaving the scene of an accident" that he finally took his recovery seriously.

After his arrest, Cory immediately resigned from his principal position. He has now started his own advocacy work through his website, Grace In Your Corner. Here you will find his blog, his vlog, professional resources, and more! You'll also find Cory on Twitter @CoryStrathman, on Facebook, and on Instagram.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Matthew Tessnear | Author, Blogger & Mental Health Advocate

In this episode, Al interviews Matthew Tessnear, author, blogger, and mental health advocate. Matthew shares his long history with depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) (recorded 6-27-19). After working as a reporter and editor for ten years, Matthew switched roles to public relations. Soon after transitioning to this new role, Matthew's mental health took a turn for the worse. At that point, Matthew new something had to change. He withdrew from just about everything in order to focus on his mental health. Finally, after 30 years of living with these illnesses, Matthew reached out for the help he needed.

Matthew is now a passionate advocate around mental health. He is the author of Eating Me Alive: How Food, Faith, and Family Helped Me Fight Fear and Find Hope, which, as you could guess from the title, details the role food, family, and faith have played in helping him fight his fears. Matthew also has two blogs: Man Down and #FoodieScore. You can also find Matthew on Twitter @MatthewTessnear.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Carl Waggett | Firefighter & PTSD Advocate

In this episode, Al interviews Carl Waggett, firefighter and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) advocate (recorded 6-18-19). Carl is a firefighter of fifteen years, his last four as Acting Captain. He is now on leave due to his PTSD. Carl describes how he gradually realized that he was becoming desensitized to traumatic scenes. Eventually, after having a colleague die by suicide and feeling that his own life was beginning to crumble, Carl decided it was time to reach out for help.

Carl has now become an outspoken advocate around the topic of PTSD. He cranks out three podcasts and three FaceBook Live videos every week. He has a website titled, PTSD Bunker Gear for Your Brain and his Facebook page has the same title. You can also find Carl on Twitter @PTSDBunkerGear.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Kevin & Co | Mental Health Advocate

In this episode, Al interviews Kevin & Co, mental health advocate (recorded 5-27-19). Kevin talks about being a trans male, as well as his diagnoses of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), previously known as Multiple Personality Disorder. Kevin describes his "System", which consists of Kevin and seven "Alters", or "Parts". Kevin describes receiving the diagnoses and the work he has done to have a better understanding of his many alters in this incredibly informative, candid interview.

You can learn more about Kevin & Co on his website. There, you can also purchase beautiful "Grounding Mats", read his BPD Magazine, or check out his "Story Time" collaborative with TheWeInMe. You'll also find Kevin on Twitter @onelilpill.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Lorenzo Lewis | Mental Health Advocate & Founder of The Confess Project

In this episode, Al interviews Lorenzo Lewis, mental health advocate and founder of The Confess Project (recorded 5-13-19). Lorenzo shares some of his childhood trauma including being born behind bars, losing his father and entering a behavioral facility at age 10, and being convicted of a gun crime at age seventeen.

Lorenzo speaks about the challenges of being a black man with a mental illness. He also describes how the African American community, in general, relates to mental illnesses and some of the reasons that many black people have little trust in the medical system in the U.S.

You'll also hear Lorenzo describe the incredible work of The Confess Project, the non-profit he founded in 2016. This mental health initiative supports black boys and men from the ages of 11-35. The Confess Project provides education and training on topics related to mental health. They present in schools, universities and barbershops and even train barbers to become mental health advocates.

You can find out more about The Confess Project on their website or on their FaceBook page. You can also find Lorenzo on Twitter at Theconfessproj.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Erik Robinson | General Contractor & Founder of Building a Refuge

In this episode, Al interviews Erik Robinson, general contractor and founder of Building a Refuge (recorded 4-22-19). After losing nearly eighty personal properties and his own home in the housing crash of 2008-2009, Erik went into a deep depression spending days in the dark of his basement, culminating in an attempted suicide.

In 2011, Erik realized that he was being investigated by the FBI for some of his mortgage investments six years earlier. Erik was charged with a federal crime and served eighteen months of a twenty-one-month sentence in federal prison. Erik describes his time in prison and how he was able to find a group of supportive men and begin to turn his life around.

Erik also describes Building a Refuge, a nonprofit organization that he founded.  The organization brings community and hope around men who are hurting.

You can learn more about Erik and his organization on the Building a Refuge website and on Facebook. You'll also find Erik on Twitter @refuge_a.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.