The Power of Self-Love: Kevin Hines on Turning Brain Pain into Purpose

TW: This episode discusses suicide and depression

In this uplifting episode, we sit down with Kevin Hines, an award-winning speaker and mental health advocate, to explore resilience, hope, and the journey to self-love. At the age of 19, Kevin survived a suicide attempt that forever changed his life. He shares his path from the miracle that saved him that day to now dedicating himself to helping others overcome "brain pain" and find their way to healing.

Throughout the conversation, Kevin shares profound insights on the power of empathy, the importance of positive self-talk, and the critical need to reach out for help when it’s needed most. They touch on the complexities of mental health, the impact of childhood trauma, and the transformative effect of forgiveness. He also discusses his advocacy work, including his role in the installation of suicide prevention nets at the Golden Gate Bridge.

This is a powerful reminder that no matter how difficult life gets, there is always hope, and that each life holds immense value. Whether you’re seeking inspiration or practical advice on mental health, this conversation is for anyone striving to live a fuller, more compassionate life with the ability to find light in the darkest moments. Don't miss this chance to hear from a man who has turned his pain into a mission to save lives.

If you are in Crisis, or struggling with thoughts of suicide please call or text 988 or text CNQR to 741-741

TIMECODES:

(01:47) Introducing Kevin Hines

(5:11) Kevin Hines' background, challenges he faced growing up, and his life-changing experience at the Golden Gate Bridge. 

(12:19) Current state of boys/men and skewed perceptions of suicide

(17:45) Moving from self-hate to self-love

(24:35) Jamey reflects on his own mother and experiences

(28:18) Reframing definitions, perceptions and approach to suicide and people that need help

(57:26) Gender trends and differences related to suicide, normalizing struggle for all

(1:05:22) The initiative to get suicide prevention nets installed at the Golden Gate Bridge

(1:09:51) Exercise to reduce negative self-talk and depression

(1:12:15) What does it mean to be “man enough”?

QUOTES:

"Suicide is not the answer to the problem. It is the problem. You're beautiful just as you are, and you are enough." - Kevin (1:10:50)

"We are all human who want the same things. We want to experience joy and love. We want to be seen…We want to build some legacy, to be valued, to make a mark in some way." - Jamey (24:57)

"The thoughts are…It's almost like you're on this radio station and you can't change the channel...And it's constant and it's all the time and it is inescapable in many ways…But the solution is not for you to go. It’s to actually ask for help." - Liz (16:48)

"Without self-love we cannot give of ourselves to any other human being." - Kevin (14:15)

KEVIN HINES LINKS: 

• Books: The Art of Being Broken, How Storytelling Saves Lives; The Dimly Lit Star - https://kevinhinesstory.com/shop/ 
• Film: The Net - https://TheNetMovie.com 
• https://www.instagram.com/kevinhinesstory/ 
• https://x.com/KevinHinesStory  
• http://YouTube.com/KevinHines
• http://YouTube.com/HinesightsPodcast 

SUPPORT MAN ENOUGH

• https://manenough.com/newsletter 
• https://ma