Survive and Thrive 8791 ☆ Mental Health Help ☆ ANXIETY ☆ DEPRESSION ☆ RECOVERY ☆WELLNESS

Tim Decorah
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  • MENTAL HEALTH
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Do you need help with your mental health? Do you need coping skills for ANXIETY or DEPRESSION? Do you feel alone? What will you get? Help for your anxiety or depression! Our mission is to share stories and conversations that make you cry, laugh, think—stimulating emotions, creating laughter, inspiring the mind. A new episode will be released on Monday and Thursday morning featuring a wide range of guests. The podcast will touch on many subjects such as: grief, loss of a loved one, recovery, professional setback, mental health and illness. Our guests will share how they survived and thrived.

  1. 3 DAYS AGO

    S2 Ep. 40 - State Championship Coach & Person by Ron Prochnow

    On this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791, I welcome Coach Ron Prochnow to the Buck & Honey’s remote studios. Coach Prochnow recently guided the Reedsville Panthers boys basketball team to its first state championship in 80 years—but the journey to that moment was anything but easy. Growing up in Markesan, Wisconsin, Ron developed a passion for athletics early in life. After a standout high school career, he attended the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh, where he earned a degree in physical education and health while also excelling as a cross country and track athlete. As a member of the Titans cross country program, Ron helped UW–Oshkosh win three NCAA Division III national championships and earned All-American honors during his senior season. While in college, he discovered a love for coaching basketball, beginning his coaching career at Lomira High School. After graduation, he accepted a teaching position and worked his way through assistant coaching roles before landing his first varsity head coaching job at Brookwood High School. Later, at Augusta High School, Ron made a pivotal decision to coach the varsity girls basketball team—a move that led to his first state championship in 1996. Eventually, a desire to return closer to family brought him to Reedsville High School. Early struggles with team chemistry and program relationships caused him to step away from coaching for a period of time. During those years, he focused on family, completed his master’s degree, and gained a renewed perspective on leadership. When the opportunity to return to coaching came, Ron embraced it. Years later, with his own son entering the varsity program, he was named head boys basketball coach at Reedsville. After several near-misses at the state tournament, the Panthers finally broke through in 2026, capturing the WIAA Division 5 state championship. Coach Prochnow’s story is one of perseverance, humility, growth, and leadership. This episode is packed with valuable lessons for coaches, educators, parents, and anyone striving to build something meaningful through adversity. You’re not going to want to miss this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791. CAN’T WAIT!!!

    1hr 8min

  2. 30 APR

    S2 Ep. 39 - Smart Choices & Taking Care of Yourself by Coach Decorah

    On this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791, Coach Tim Decorah takes the mic from the Buck & Honey’s remote studios to share key messages from two impactful keynote presentations—one at the Wisconsin Basketball Coaches Association All-State Banquet and the other at Wisconsin Heights High School. In the first segment, Coach Decorah reflects on his experience at the WBCA event, where he spoke to players, parents, and coaches about the emotional transition that comes with the end of a high school career. He offers five practical strategies for student-athletes preparing for their senior season or the next level.  From prioritizing self-care—“put your mask on first”—to unplugging from constant pressure, finding a trusted support system, staying active beyond the game, and having the courage to say, “I need help,” his message is rooted in balance, awareness, and long-term well-being. In the second half of the episode, Coach Decorah shifts to his keynote at Wisconsin Heights High School, where he focused on decision-making during a critical time of year—prom season. Using the OODA loop, a simple yet powerful four-step framework, he equips students with a tool to make thoughtful, responsible choices in high-pressure situations. Observe—What’s really happening? Orient—Who am I? What do I stand for? Decide—What’s the right choice? Act—Follow through with confidence. Whether it’s navigating peer pressure or making everyday decisions, Coach Decorah emphasizes one clear message: don’t react—decide. This episode is filled with real-world strategies for students, parents, and coaches alike—centered on leadership, accountability, and making choices that align with who you want to become. You won't want to miss this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791. CAN'T WAIT!!!

    36 min

  3. 27 APR

    S2 Ep 38 - D1 Hockey Manager to 5-Time National Champion by Justin Kakuska

    On this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791, I welcome Justin Kakuska to the Buck & Honey’s remote studios. Justin’s journey is a great reminder that sometimes the smallest opportunities can lead to something much bigger. After graduating from Waunakee High School, Justin headed to the University of Minnesota Duluth, where his first semester didn’t quite go as planned. With plenty of downtime and not much direction, he found himself searching for purpose. That changed after a chance connection with a women’s hockey team manager. While nothing came of it initially, that same connection reached back out after winter break—offering Justin a chance to help the team. He jumped at the opportunity, doing whatever was needed—mopping floors, doing laundry, and embracing the behind-the-scenes work that often goes unnoticed. That willingness to serve opened doors. After transferring to the University of Wisconsin–Madison, a connection helped him land interviews with the Badger women’s hockey program, including one with legendary head coach Mark Johnson. That moment changed everything. Justin worked his way up from student manager to his current role as Director of Hockey Operations and Video Coordinator. Along the way, he’s been part of one of the most successful programs in college hockey, contributing to five national championship teams. In this episode, Justin takes us behind the scenes of a championship culture, sharing the highs, the challenges, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. He also reflects on the confidence and trust instilled by Coach Johnson and how that support has shaped his growth. This is a story about showing up, doing the little things right, and trusting the process.

    1hr 5min

  4. 16 APR

    S2 Ep 37 - Leadership, Mentoring & Life Pivots by Jeremy Payne

    On this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791, I welcome Jeremy Payne to the Buck & Honey’s remote studios. Jeremy is the Owner and Founder of My Black Carrot LLC Mentoring Hub, Co-Founder of the Black Platteville Community Network, and a Mental Health Service Provider with Comprehensive Community Services in Dane County through Orchestra X Agency. His journey is a powerful story of resilience, leadership, and navigating life’s unexpected identity shifts. After a standout high school career as a student-athlete, Jeremy set his sights on continuing his football journey at the University of Southern Illinois, where he planned to walk on to the team. However, a coaching change altered that path, and Jeremy was not selected—an experience that deeply impacted his confidence and sense of identity. Facing the weight of expectations from his hometown, he was forced to reassess his direction. Determined to find a new path, Jeremy made the bold decision to attend the University of Wisconsin–Platteville sight unseen. There, he found renewed purpose, competing in both football and track while stepping into leadership roles that would shape his future. His passion for mentorship emerged as he began working closely with younger students, guiding them through their own transitions. Following graduation, Jeremy remained in the Platteville area, supporting students at both the University of Wisconsin–Platteville and the University of Dubuque—helping ensure they felt safe, supported, and connected to campus resources. Jeremy also opens up about key identity pivots that shaped his personal growth. From the disappointment of missed athletic opportunities, to navigating racial tensions and uncertainty during the COVID-19 pandemic, to reconnecting with childhood friends as life paths diverged—each moment challenged him to grow and adapt. Today, Jeremy uses those experiences to help others manage anxiety, build confidence, and embrace change. His story is a reminder that setbacks don’t define you—how you respond to them does. You won't want to miss this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791. CAN'T WAIT!!!

    55 min

  5. 13 APR

    S2 Ep. 36 - Surgeries & A Tumultuous Life by Meghann Dawson

    On this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791, I welcome Meghann Dawson to the Buck & Honey’s remote studios. Dawson’s life story is a powerful testament to resilience, healing, and transformation. Meghann’s journey began with adversity almost immediately. Born to a young mother at just 15 years old, she developed a serious infection within days of birth that led to complications in her shoulder and hip joints. Damage to her growth plates resulted in numerous surgeries throughout her childhood. As she entered her middle school years—a time when many are discovering their identity—Meghann was navigating life with medical equipment and ongoing physical challenges. In college, she underwent one of her most difficult procedures: arm-lengthening surgery. Beyond her physical struggles, Meghann also faced a turbulent home life, including an abusive father battling alcohol use disorder. In an effort to cope with both emotional and physical pain, she began experimenting with alcohol at a young age. What started as a coping mechanism evolved into patterns of seeking validation and navigating unhealthy relationships. In adulthood, Meghann found herself in a marriage that mirrored the instability she grew up with. Determined to break the cycle—especially for her daughter—she made the courageous decision to leave. That decision marked the beginning of a new chapter. Through therapy, spirituality, and a commitment to personal growth, Meghann began to heal. As she focused on her well-being, the anxiety she had carried for years began to ease. Today, she has built a life rooted in purpose and empowerment. After a successful career in the credit union industry, Meghann now works as an empowerment coach, helping others reconnect with themselves and embrace self-worth. She is the founder of The Unperfect Life Collective, a keynote speaker, podcast host, and soon-to-be author of Becoming Is Messy—a reflection of her belief that healing is not perfect, but it is possible. You won't want to miss this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791. CAN'T WAIT!!!

    1hr 8min

  6. 30 MAR

    S2 Ep 35 - Life of a Basketball Coach Season Recap by Coach Sean McGann

    On the next episode of Survive & Thrive 8791, I welcome Coach Sean McGann to the Buck & Honey’s remote studios. Following the completion of his eighth season as head boys basketball coach at Sauk-Prairie High School, and fresh off a championship year, Coach McGann joins Coach Tim Decorah for an honest and insightful conversation that goes far beyond the court. Together, they reflect on the season by sharing their top five boys basketball players they’ve coached against in the Badger Conference—highlighting the talent, competitiveness, and growth they’ve witnessed over the years. But this episode isn’t just about basketball; it’s about the realities of coaching and the strategies that help sustain success over the course of a demanding five-month season. Coach McGann opens up about the emotional side of coaching, including what it’s like in the postgame locker room after the final game of the season and how he approaches postseason individual meetings with his players—balancing honest feedback with opportunities to listen and grow. He also discusses the importance of team banquets, celebrating accomplishments, and reinforcing culture. Looking ahead, Coach McGann shares his expectations for the offseason, including spring and summer development, team camps, open gyms, and building accountability within the program. He reflects on how prioritizing mental health—both for himself and his players—played a key role in creating a more balanced, enjoyable, and ultimately successful season. Recently named Badger Small Conference Coach of the Year, Coach McGann credits continuous learning, collaboration with fellow coaches, and strong relationships with his staff as essential to his growth. This episode offers valuable insight for coaches at any stage, blending practical strategies with a deeper look at leadership, resilience, and the evolving role of mental health in athletics. You won't want to miss this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791. CAN'T WAIT!!!

    1hr 12min

  7. 23 MAR

    S2 Ep 34 - Depression, Suicide Attempt, & Hope by Kate Simonet

    On the next episode of Survive & Thrive 8791, I welcome Kate Simonet to the Buck & Honey’s remote studios for a conversation that is as powerful as it is necessary. Kate’s story is one of resilience, honesty, and ultimately—hope. Growing up just north of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Kate was the definition of a high-achieving student-athlete. At Brooklyn Park High School, she excelled in the classroom and on the course, standing out as a distance runner in cross country and track. Her hard work earned her a spot competing at Winona State University—but behind the success, Kate was quietly battling something she didn’t yet understand. What began as unspoken struggles in high school grew into something far more serious in college, where she was eventually diagnosed with bipolar disorder after years of going undiagnosed. From deep depression and suicidal ideation to a psychotic break while traveling abroad, Kate found herself navigating moments of fear, confusion, and overwhelming shame—often feeling like she didn’t have the “right” to struggle despite her supportive upbringing. In this episode, Kate courageously shares her journey through hospitalization, a suicide attempt, and the difficult road of finding stability through treatment—only to face setbacks again when she stepped away from medication. Her story doesn’t shy away from the darkest moments, but it also shines a light on what healing can look like. Today, Kate is a graduate of Winona State, a mental health advocate with Thumbs Up, and the author of Out of the Darkness. She now uses her voice to help teens feel seen, heard, and less alone. This is a conversation about breaking stigma, finding language for pain—and discovering that even in the darkest moments, there is a path forward. You won't want to miss this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791. CAN'T WAIT!!! Purchase the book - Out of the Darkness https://a.co/d/09XKH5Zx

    1hr 1min

  8. 16 MAR

    S2 Ep 33 - Two-Time State Champion by Dean Vander Plas

    On this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791, we welcome Dean Vander Plas, a small-town basketball star whose journey from a driveway hoop in rural Wisconsin to the NCAA Tournament is a story of passion, perseverance, and community pride. Dean grew up in Oostburg, a town of about 1,300 people in the mid-1980s. The Vander Plas family had the only basketball hoop in the neighborhood, which meant the local kids gathered there constantly to play. Dean’s father had just one rule: Dean always got to be in the game. It was in that driveway—and later in the Sheboygan County YMCA youth league—that Dean first developed a deep love for basketball. That love would take him far. At Oostburg High School, Dean helped lead the Flying Dutchmen to back-to-back appearances in the state tournament during his junior and senior seasons. The entire town rallied behind the team, even holding an impromptu parade as they advanced to the state tournament in Madison, where they played inside the legendary UW Field House. For a group of small-town athletes, the experience felt straight out of the movie Hoosiers. Oostburg captured the 1986 and 1987 Class C state championships, but the 1987 title nearly slipped away. Trailing by 20 points entering the fourth quarter of the sectional final against Mineral Point, Dean and teammate Travis Gabrielse led a remarkable comeback that remains one of the most memorable moments in program history. After high school, Dean chose basketball over several high-profile football offers and continued his career at University of Wisconsin–Green Bay. In his senior season, the Phoenix earned an NCAA Tournament berth, traveling to Arizona where they battled Michigan State Spartans men's basketball, falling only after a game-winning shot by Steve Smith. Today, Dean enjoys life in northern Wisconsin with his wife, spending time with his three children and embracing his favorite role yet—grandfather. But back home in Oostburg, he’s still remembered as the hometown hero who helped put a small lakeshore community on the basketball map.

    1hr 13min
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Do you need help with your mental health? Do you need coping skills for ANXIETY or DEPRESSION? Do you feel alone? What will you get? Help for your anxiety or depression! Our mission is to share stories and conversations that make you cry, laugh, think—stimulating emotions, creating laughter, inspiring the mind. A new episode will be released on Monday and Thursday morning featuring a wide range of guests. The podcast will touch on many subjects such as: grief, loss of a loved one, recovery, professional setback, mental health and illness. Our guests will share how they survived and thrived.

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