The Stepping In It Podcast with Renee Schulte & Jason Haglund

Renee Schulte
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The Stepping In It Podcast with Renee Schulte & Jason Haglund

The Stepping In It Podcast is a weekly discussion of the latest news and trends in behavioral health policy development and practice. Each episode features interviews with experts from across the field, including policymakers, clinicians, researchers, and advocates. The podcast provides listeners with practical tips and resources for improving the quality and access to behavioral health care. 

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    94. When Systems Collide: Behavioral Health & Juvenile Justice with Nina Richtman

    In this powerful episode, we sit down with Nina Richtman, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the Treatment Advocacy Center, to explore what happens when behavioral health needs go unmet and youth fall through the cracks—landing in the justice system instead. Nina shares her unique journey from agriculture scientist to nonprofit advocate, and how her data-driven mindset and experience at NAMI and the CSG-Justice Center have shaped her work at the intersection of health and justice. We dive into the increasing mental health challenges facing children in Iowa, what’s working (and what’s not) in the current system, and what families truly need for support. Plus, we close out with our "Recovering Politician Self-Care Policy of the Week" to help you declutter your life and your mindset. In this episode, you will be able to: Mastering the Maze: Navigating Behavioral Health Systems to support children with complex needs.Unveiling the Realities: Shedding Light on the Challenges in the Foster Care System.Beyond the Transition: Understanding the Journey from Foster Care to Juvenile Justice.Unlocking Access: Strategies for accessing Mental Health Services for Youth in need.Balancing Act: Exploring the Impact of Legal System on Behavioral Health Treatment.The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to Behavioral Health Systems and Structures 00:01:09 - Navigating Mental Health and Juvenile Justice Systems 00:02:34 - Transition from Agriculture to Behavioral Health 00:09:16 - Challenges of Foster Care and Mental Health 00:13:59 - Gaps in Mental Health Support for Children 00:14:28 - Lack of Intensive Day Programs for Kids with Complex Behavior Issues 00:15:31 - Testing the Environment and Safety Perception 00:17:39 - Gaps in Mental Health System 00:20:30 - Colliding with the Juvenile Justice System 00:27:52 - Long-Term Impact on Youth Offenders 00:28:24 - Challenges in the Behavioral Health System 00:29:54 - Lawsuit Settlement and Future Plans 00:30:50 - Importance of Case Coordination 00:32:36 - Fragmentation and Integration in Healthcare 00:36:39 - Self-Care Policy of the Week - KISS  Links: https://www.americashealthrankings.org/explore/measures/mentalhealthconditions_overall/IAhttps://hhs.iowa.gov/media/13217/download?inlinehttps://hhs.iowa.gov/performance-and-reports/iowa-youth-surveyhttps://www.americashealthrankings.org/explore/measures/mentalhealthconditions_overall/IAhttps://hicsiowa.org/blog/what-percentage-of-children-suffer-from-mental-health-conditions/Parents are giving up custody of kids to get them mental health helpConnect with us:  https://ruralpolicypartners.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/  https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners https://www.youtube.com/@ruralpolicypartners Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/aEUnpVqFXxo

    41 min

  2. 10 JUN

    93. Live from Atlanta: Parole, Mental Health, and the Push for Prevention

    Reporting live from the Association of Parole Authorities International conference in Atlanta—right after finally getting that dryer delivered—we're digging into the surprising overlap between mental health and the parole system. From a panel discussion that bridged the worlds of corrections and behavioral health to staggering data on incarceration and supervision, this episode challenges the way we think about justice and support. With over 25,000 people under probation in Iowa alone, and 6,200 on parole, it’s clear we need upstream solutions. We explore the role of specialty courts, diversion programs, and community reintegration, and shine a light on the work of ICAN in advocating for incarcerated youth. This conversation is about systems—but even more, it’s about second chances. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the complexities of the behavioral health system and its impact on reentry success.Explore the crucial connection between parole and mental health to support successful reintegration into society.Learn effective strategies for conducting risk assessments in corrections to enhance support for individuals reentering society.Discover the valuable benefits of peer support in reentry programs for individuals with a history of involvement in the criminal justice system.Explore the significance of implementing diversion programs in behavioral health to support successful reentry and reduce recidivism. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to the Stepping in it Podcast 00:00:15 - Challenges in Accessing Behavioral Health System 00:00:44 - The Intersection of Parole and Mental Health 00:01:54 - Global Themes in Behavioral Health 00:06:18 - Challenges with Risk Assessments 00:12:58 - Criminal Justice System Engagement 00:13:46 - State Comparison 00:16:23 - High Incarceration Rates 00:19:52 - Pretrial Policies 00:21:48 - Implementing Changes 00:25:44 - Challenges with Policies and Procedures 00:27:19 - Impact of Felon Association Condition 00:29:25 - Effective Support and Cost Savings 00:31:06 - Rethinking Recidivism Measurement 00:33:02 - Importance of Self-Care Routine  Links:  https://www.prisonpolicy.org/https://cfsy.org/what-we-do/ican-stories/ Connect with us:  https://ruralpolicypartners.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/  https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners https://www.youtube.com/@ruralpolicypartners Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-eGx_VID4e0

    37 min

  3. 3 JUN

    92. Living with Mental Illness: Real Life, Real Policy, Real Peer Support

    Today’s episode takes a raw and relatable look at what it means to live with mental illness—and why peer support is more than just a feel-good idea. We’re joined by Josh, a certified peer support specialist, NAMI program leader, and unapologetic gamer navigating home ownership (with the help of a clueless cat). From personal experience to public policy, Josh shares how his journey shapes the work he does across Iowa. We dive into national mental health statistics, explore the intersection of mental illness and the criminal justice system, and unpack what it would take to truly center lived experience in the systems meant to serve. Come for the driveway-gravel woes, stay for the conversation that might just change how you see peer support. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover how NAMI provider training enhances support for reentry programs.Explore the invaluable benefits of peer support in improving behavioral health.Uncover the unique challenges of mental health care within incarceration facilities.Learn about the pivotal role peers play in driving criminal justice reform.Understand the significant impact of peer support specialists on reentry success. The key moments in this episode are: 00:04:26 - Josh Hubbell’s Introduction to NAMI 00:08:05 - Challenges in Mental Health Education in Corrections 00:10:56 - Gaps in Reentering the Community 00:12:19 - Speaking to Law Enforcement and Mental Health Advocacy 00:12:39 - NAMI's Training Component with Law Enforcement Academy 00:14:18 - Treatment Options in Prisons 00:16:20 - Overrepresentation of Mental Illness in Criminal Justice Settings 00:20:33 - Utilizing Peers in Mental Health Support 00:24:43 - Employment Barriers for Felons 00:25:11 - Stigma and Labels 00:31:25 - Addressing Policy Issues 00:34:42 - Self-Care and Advocacy 00:36:52 - The Importance of Unity  Links:  https://www.nami.org/about-mental-illness/mental-health-by-the-numbers/1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year1 in 20 U.S. adults experience serious mental illness each year1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10-14https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4182175/#:~:text=Introduction,health%2C%20and%20social%20services%20intersect. Connect with us:  https://ruralpolicypartners.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/  https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners https://www.youtube.com/@ruralpolicypartners Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/jPggZkuPxSU

    37 min

  4. 27 MAY

    91. Culture of Resilience: From the National Association of Rural Mental Health Conference in Anchorage

    In this special on-the-ground episode, we’re coming to you live from Anchorage, Alaska at the National Association of Rural Mental Health Conference—moose sightings, state fair stories, and all. From the icy beauty of Chickaloon overlooking the Matanuska Glacier to villages with no roads along the Bering Strait, rural takes on a whole new meaning here. We unpack what true community orientation looks like in some of the most remote areas of the country, where resilience is culture and connection is survival. We’ll explore the difference between research done on versus with Indigenous communities, reflect on alarming youth mental health data, and share powerful insights from the Alaska Native Collaborative Hub on protective factors that actually work. Don’t miss this rich conversation on what it really means to build systems with rural communities, not just for them. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover effective strategies for navigating behavioral health systems to better support your community.Overcome challenges in rural mental health access by learning innovative solutions and approaches.Explore the resilience of indigenous communities and gain insights into effective suicide prevention methods.Understand the profound impact of community and culture on mental health and well-being.Learn how to implement mobile crisis services in remote areas to provide timely support and intervention.The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:44 - Introduction to the Behavioral Health System 00:03:23 - Understanding Rural and Frontier Communities 00:09:34 - Youth Suicide and Mental Health Services 00:12:44 - Building Resilience in Indigenous Communities 00:13:06 - Challenges of Telehealth in Remote Areas 00:15:24 - Community-Centered Research 00:18:27 - Protective Factors for Youth 00:19:41 - Focus on Positive Protective Factors 00:23:34 - Community Orientation and Workforce Integration 00:25:19 - The Importance of Community in Workplaces 00:25:49 - Soft Skills vs. Hard Skills 00:26:40 - Self Care and Travel Challenges 00:27:32 - Insight from Alaska's Rural Mental Health Conference 00:28:31 - Call to Action and Conclusion  Links:  Book-Research is Ceremony-Indigenous research methods https://www.adn.com/alaska-news/anchorage/2025/05/01/providence-to-close-alaskas-only-short-term-adolescent-mental-health-crisis-center/https://health.alaska.gov/en/education/suicide-facts/https://www.anchrr.orgConnect with us:  https://ruralpolicypartners.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/  https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners https://www.youtube.com/@ruralpolicypartners Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wxUid2Z3t4E

    29 min

  5. 20 MAY

    90. Back to the Basics: Leading Through the Storm

    Welcome back—and hold onto your pitchforks—because even the whiny farmer is feeling the pressure. With family farm bankruptcies up 55% over last year and no signs of slowing down, it’s a reminder that these are challenging times for leaders across every industry. In this episode, we go back to the basics of leadership. We explore how to stay steady when everything around you is shifting, why burnout and misalignment are hitting record highs, and what the data says about where leaders are falling short. From the Five Dysfunctions of a Team to practical tools for empathetic communication and purposeful connection, we’re equipping you to lead with clarity—even when the skies look stormy. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover innovative solutions for overcoming challenges in accessing behavioral health systems.Uncover effective leadership strategies to thrive in challenging times.Explore the impact of farm bankruptcies on behavioral health and ways to address it.Learn practical techniques for managing workplace stress and avoiding burnout.Master the art of effective communication for team leadership. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introducing the Stepping In It Podcast 00:01:30 - Leading During Challenging Times 00:03:38 - Impact of Challenging Times 00:08:05 - Leadership and Employee Engagement 00:11:43 - Signs of Burnout and Employee Well-being 00:12:09 - The Importance of Taking Time Off 00:13:31 - Challenges of Taking Time Off 00:15:17 - Tools for Managing Challenging Times 00:19:40 - Importance of Regular Communication 00:22:14 - Building Trust and Accountability 00:23:54 - Importance of Leadership and Influence 00:24:41 - The Impact of Increased Training 00:26:30 - The Value of External Support and Feedback 00:27:31 - The Dangers of Group Think and Insulation 00:29:38 - Using Data and Tools for Effective Leadership  Links:  https://resume.io/blog/interesting-leadership-statisticshttps://www.tablegroup.com/topics-and-resources/teamwork-5-dysfunctions/?srsltid=AfmBOopT-omUw8Ug9TModRIQpmtmXGIF5QFXxQDaJS9pdOmSyhorZwqH Connect with us:  https://ruralpolicypartners.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/  https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners https://www.youtube.com/@ruralpolicypartners Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/fY6V5sWnsvA

    31 min

  6. 13 MAY

    89. What If We Just... Didn’t? Defunding Mental Health in America

    Imagine a world where we didn’t fund mental health services—where Medicaid comes with work requirements, SAMHSA loses a billion dollars, and vital programs like CCBHCs vanish. In today’s episode, we kick things off with our whiny farmer intro (because even rural folks feel the cuts) and then dive into the real-life consequences of slashing support for mental health care. From Arkansas to Iowa, we explore the impact of Medicaid work requirements and the sobering data behind policy decisions. Rural communities—already struggling with access and affordability—stand to lose the most. We also talk through how to manage uncertainty when the systems meant to support us are the very ones being dismantled. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover strategies for navigating the behavioral health system with ease.Uncover the far-reaching impact of potential behavioral health funding cuts.Understand the ongoing debate around Medicaid work requirements and its impact on mental health care.Gain insights into the future of SAMHSA and how it may affect behavioral health funding.Explore the crucial role of CCBHCs in providing comprehensive behavioral health care. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to Behavioral Health Systems 00:03:02 - Medicaid Work Requirements 00:08:49 - Reorganization of SAMHSA 00:11:07 - Potential Cuts to CCBHCs 00:13:26 - Challenges in Funding for Behavioral Health Services 00:14:00 - Impact of Uncertain Funding on Providers 00:15:21 - Disruptions in Research and Data 00:17:17 - Effects of Medicaid Work Requirements 00:19:32 - Lack of Transparency in Cost Savings 00:21:21 - Uncertainty in SAMHSA Funding 00:26:31 - Uncertainties and Mental Health Funding 00:26:44 - Encouragement to Review Show Notes 00:27:04 - Call to Action and Conclusion 00:27:47 - Call for Engagement and Future Episodes Links:  MedicaidCommon Wealth FundIowa MedicaidNational Rural HealthSAMHSACCBHCsResearch/DataMental health cuts Connect with us:  https://ruralpolicypartners.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/  https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners https://www.youtube.com/@ruralpolicypartners Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/41mNXv39Cu4

    28 min

  7. 6 MAY

    88. Montana Medicine: Behavioral Health, Bottlenecks & Big Sky Policy

    In this episode, we dive into the complicated and often chaotic state of healthcare delivery in Montana—with a whiny farmer intro and a serious question: why don’t we have corn ice cream in the Midwest? From emergency departments overwhelmed due to a lack of psychiatric beds, to the legislative push for expanded forensic capacity at Warm Springs, Montana's behavioral health system is under strain. We unpack the data, discuss what "community benefit" really means for rural hospitals, and explore the persistent turnover among hospital leadership in states like Montana and Nebraska. Plus, we close with a policy debate that’s been brewing since 2019: should a retirement community in Cowsbell be allowed to serve wine on the lawn during summer concerts? Buckle up—Big Sky country’s healthcare challenges and quirks are as wide-ranging as the state itself. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the key challenges in the behavioral health system and how to address them effectively.Gain valuable insights from a rural mental health conference, uncovering new perspectives and innovative approaches.Explore the significant impact of remote and frontier healthcare on patient outcomes and community well-being.Learn about the unique challenges and strategies for addressing substance abuse issues in rural areas.Discover the pivotal role of hospitals in promoting and improving community health through collaborative initiatives and innovative solutions. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introducing the Stepping In It Podcast 00:00:15 - Challenges in Accessing Behavioral Health 00:01:30 - Differences in Accessing Behavioral Health 00:05:31 - State Institution Challenges 00:10:17 - Doom and Gloom in Montana 00:12:07 - Lack of Connectivity in Rural Areas 00:13:16 - Substance Use in Montana 00:15:42 - Mental Health Redesign and Community Benefit 00:17:45 - Data and State Hospital Issues 00:22:30 - CCBHC Legislation and 988 Awareness 00:24:41 - Issues with House Bill 491 00:25:27 - Challenges with current liquor laws 00:26:48 - Conflict of interest with the Tavern Association 00:27:07 - Recovering from travel challenges 00:28:53 - Potential impact of federal changes Links: https://dailymontanan.com/2025/02/01/montana-eyes-30m-revamp-of-mental-health-developmental-disabilities-facilities/https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/troubled-montana-state-hospital-slow-overhaul-legislative-limbo/https://www.tac.org/reports_publications/state-psychiatric-hospital-beds/?utm_source=chatgpt.com  Connect with us:  https://ruralpolicypartners.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/  https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners https://www.youtube.com/@ruralpolicypartners Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pM8QPMRJfWQ

    30 min

  8. 29 APR

    87. Corn, Collaboration & Change: Nebraska’s Mental Health Policy Push with Amanda McGill & James Bowers

    Thanks for joining us—still hauling corn, but progress has been made! Just in time to plant this year's crop… and just in time to plant seeds of change in Nebraska’s mental health policy landscape. In this episode, we sit down with Amanda McGill from Nebraska Cures and James Bowers from NAMI Nebraska to talk about their collaboration following the Nebraska Mental Health Convening. We dig into why these two organizations joined forces, the pressing behavioral health issues facing the state—from high incarceration and suicide rates to critical workforce shortages—and the data that underscores the urgent need for action. Tune in as we explore what’s next in policy, advocacy, and how you can be part of the solution. In this episode, you will be able to: Mastering the Art of Navigating Behavioral Health Systems: Unlock the secrets to effortlessly navigate and access vital mental health resources.Unveiling the Power of Mental Health Advocacy in Nebraska: Discover the untold stories and effective strategies behind mental health advocacy in Nebraska.Embracing the Role of Lived Experience in Mental Health Reform: Uncover the transformative influence of personal stories in shaping mental health policies and practices.Building Effective Mental Health Coalitions: Learn the essential steps to build strong, impactful coalitions for advancing mental health initiatives.Unraveling the Impact of Funding on Mental Health Initiatives: Gain insights into the critical role of funding in shaping and sustaining mental health programs and services. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introducing the Podcast and Guests 00:03:40 - Collaboration and Coalition Building 00:10:38 - Impact of Mental Health in Nebraska 00:12:53 - Building a Movement 00:13:30 - Next Steps and Policy Briefs 00:16:26 - NAMI's Role and Support 00:19:57 - Importance of Lived Experience 00:23:27 - Funding and Stakeholder Engagement 00:26:28 - Importance of Effective Education 00:27:14 - Educating Legislators 00:28:26 - Simplifying Communication 00:30:30 - Community Engagement 00:33:40 - Audience Engagement  Links: https://nebraskacures.com/mental-behavioral-health/ Connect with us:  https://ruralpolicypartners.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/  https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners https://www.youtube.com/@ruralpolicypartners Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3b0UXKA7Zt4

    35 min
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The Stepping In It Podcast is a weekly discussion of the latest news and trends in behavioral health policy development and practice. Each episode features interviews with experts from across the field, including policymakers, clinicians, researchers, and advocates. The podcast provides listeners with practical tips and resources for improving the quality and access to behavioral health care. 

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