DanSun Health Podcast

Daniel Sundahl
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  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

DanSun Health is a space dedicated to breaking the silence around mental health through powerful visual storytelling and honest conversation. Created by internationally recognized artist, paramedic, retired firefighter and counselling therapist Daniel Sundahl, this channel explores the intersection of trauma, healing, and the human experience. 🎨 Therapeutic art and how the creative process benefits mental wellbeing 🧠 Mental health discussions grounded in real-world experience 💬 Tools for Post-Traumatic Growth 🌱 Inspiration for personal growth, connection, and wellbeing

  1. Episode #25 - Surviving Cancer and the Loss of Identity with David Graham

    JAN 25

    Episode #25 - Surviving Cancer and the Loss of Identity with David Graham

    In this episode, Daniel Sundahl and David Graham discuss the profound impact of a cancer diagnosis on identity and purpose. David shares his journey from being a successful airline captain to navigating life after a terminal cancer diagnosis. The conversation explores themes of identity loss, the search for purpose, and the importance of self-care and gratitude. David emphasizes the need to embrace change, find meaning in adversity, and the value of lived experiences in understanding mental health and resilience.Takeaways• Life can change drastically in an instant.• Identity is often tied to our careers, making loss challenging.• Gratitude can emerge from adversity.• Finding purpose can be a gradual process.• Self-care practices are essential for mental well-being.• Lessons from past experiences can guide future actions.• It's okay to not have all the answers immediately.• Perspective shifts can lead to personal growth.• Humour can be a powerful coping mechanism.• Embracing change can reveal new opportunities.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mental Health and Identity02:53 Facing a Life-Changing Diagnosis05:43 The Struggle with Identity Loss08:52 Finding Purpose After Loss11:54 Lessons from Cancer and Career15:00 The Importance of Gratitude and Humility17:45 Redefining Purpose and Perspective20:40 The Gifts of Adversity23:51 Navigating Life After Career Loss31:01 Finding New Purpose After Loss34:32 The Importance of Taking a Breath36:26 The Blind Side: Unexpected Gifts40:43 Post-Traumatic Growth and Perspective44:48 Living Life with Deathbed Perspective50:46 Self-Care and Embracing Life52:44 Advice for Identity Crisis53:40 Navigating a Cancer Diagnosis56:29 Managing the Emotional Battles

    1h 2m
  2. Episode #24 - Resilience & Recovery: The Role of Organizational Psychology with Kate Darling Ph.D

    JAN 18

    Episode #24 - Resilience & Recovery: The Role of Organizational Psychology with Kate Darling Ph.D

    In this episode of the DanSun Health podcast, host Daniel Sundahl engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Kate Darling, an organizational psychologist. They explore the intersection of childhood trauma and resilience, particularly in high-stress professions like first responders. Dr. Darling shares her journey from a background in accounting to her current role, emphasizing the importance of understanding trauma in the workplace and how it can influence career choices. She discusses her research on the relationship between childhood trauma and resilience, highlighting how many individuals drawn to helping professions often have their own histories of trauma, which can shape their motivations and coping mechanisms. The discussion then shifts to organizational stress, where Dr. Darling outlines common stressors in the workplace, such as ambiguity in roles, lack of resources, and ineffective leadership. She emphasizes the significance of psychological safety, where employees feel safe to voice their concerns without fear of retaliation. The conversation culminates in practical advice for both organizations and individuals on fostering a healthier work environment, enhancing resilience, and the importance of self-care routines. Dr. Darling's insights provide valuable perspectives on how to create supportive workplaces that prioritize mental health and well-being. Takeaways • "We want to give back, we want to help people." • "Post-traumatic growth suggests you're actually better off going through that traumatic experience." • "Psychological safety is feeling safe to share your perspective without being penalized." • "You can only control yourself." • "Life comes first; we are human beings first and foremost." • "Burnout is the result of doing things we're not equipped to do for too long." • "We need to keep people in roles they enjoy doing." • "Anonymity goes a long way in an unsafe environment." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Organizational Psychology 03:23 The Impact of Childhood Trauma on First Responders 06:29 Understanding Organizational Stress 08:32 The Importance of Psychological Safety 13:17 Assessing Workplace Culture 18:02 Addressing Trauma in Emergency Services 22:05 Strategies for Improving Workplace Dynamics 26:21 Navigating Unsafe Work Environments 26:53 Defining Team Performance 30:14 Enhancing Career Longevity 35:23 Work-Life Balance: Myth or Reality? 39:06 Supporting First Responders: Organizational Strategies 44:58 The Role of Creativity in Mental Well-Being 47:53 Self-Care Routines for Resilience 49:33 Building Resilience in the Workplace Links: https://darlingorganizationalpsychology.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/katejdarling/

    55 min
  3. Episode #23 - The Role of Spirituality in Overcoming Addiction with Glenna Klaver

    JAN 11

    Episode #23 - The Role of Spirituality in Overcoming Addiction with Glenna Klaver

    In this episode of the DanSun Health podcast, host Daniel Sundahl speaks with his good friend Glenna Klaver about her personal journey through addiction, recovery, and the importance of spirituality in healing. Glenna shares her experiences with drug addiction, alcoholism, and anorexia, discussing the roots of her struggles and the role of therapy and 12-step programs in her recovery. The conversation emphasizes the significance of connection, hope, and the transformative power of spirituality in overcoming life's challenges. Glenna's insights provide valuable perspectives for both individuals facing addiction and professionals in the mental health field.Takeaways• Addiction often stems from a deeper life problem rather than just substance use.• Therapy alone may not be sufficient; a spiritual awakening can be crucial for recovery.• The feeling of being out of control is common among those with addiction.• Eating disorders can be connected to the same feelings of control as substance abuse.• Finding hope and community is essential for those struggling with addiction.• 12-step programs provide a supportive environment for recovery.• The journey of recovery is unique for each individual and may involve different paths.• Spirituality can play a significant role in healing and personal growth.• Those who have faced adversity often become powerful forces for good in the world.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mental Health and Recovery02:38 Glenna's Journey Through Addiction05:45 Understanding the Roots of Addiction08:54 The Role of Therapy in Recovery11:44 Spiritual Awakening and Recovery14:32 The Illusion of Control in Addiction17:35 The Connection Between Substance Abuse and Eating Disorders20:31 The Struggle for Control in Eating Disorders23:33 The Impact of Modern Dieting Trends26:22 The Complexity of Food Addiction29:12 Finding Hope and Recovery in Desperation30:57 The Turning Point: Embracing the 12-Step Program33:24 Finding a Higher Power: Spirituality in Recovery34:44 The Connection Between Nutrition and Mental Health40:51 Understanding Different Paths to Recovery48:18 Hope and the Journey to Recovery51:30 The Power of Connection and Community52:07 Self-Care and Creative Expression55:28 The Role of Labels in Recovery58:52 Finding Meaning in SufferingLinks:https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/substance-use/get-help-with-substance-use.html (Canada)https://www.usa.gov/substance-abuse (USA)Alcoholics Anonymous: http://aa.org/Help with eating disorders: http://bit.ly/4bnfWaU

    1h 4m
  4. Episode #22 - Childhood Trauma and Career Choices with Dr. Shauna Springer

    12/28/2025

    Episode #22 - Childhood Trauma and Career Choices with Dr. Shauna Springer

    In this episode of the DanSun Health Podcast, Daniel Sundahl interviews Dr. Shauna Springer, a psychologist specializing in trauma and relationships. They discuss the impact of childhood trauma on public safety careers, the misconceptions surrounding PTSD, and the importance of understanding trauma as a change rather than a disorder. Dr. Springer shares insights on navigating relationships as first responders, the challenges they face, and offers advice for those transitioning out of their roles. The conversation emphasizes the need for proactive communication and understanding in relationships, especially for those in high-stress professions.Takeaways• Dr. Shauna Springer specializes in trauma and relationships.• Childhood trauma can influence career choices, especially in public safety.• PTSD should be viewed as a change, not a permanent disorder.• Healing from trauma is possible with the right interventions.• First responders often struggle with identity after leaving their roles.• Proactive communication is key in relationships, especially for first responders.• Understanding the dynamics of relationships can help mitigate conflicts.• Monogamy requires continuous negotiation and communication.• The stigma around mental health injuries needs to be addressed.• Self-care and connection to nature are vital for mental well-being.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Dr. Shauna Springer01:40 The Journey from Psychology to Trauma Work05:05 Understanding Military and First Responder Transitions08:55 Exploring Childhood Trauma and Public Safety Careers14:54 Challenging the Narrative on PTSD22:00 The Role of Identity in First Responders29:46 Emotional Responses in First Responders30:35 Understanding Post-Traumatic Stress Injury34:02 The Impact of Trauma on Relationships42:30 Navigating Relationship Dynamics for First Responders51:47 Transitioning from Service: Identity and Purpose57:02 Building Trust and Communication in RelationshipsLinks:https://www.docshaunaspringer.com/Thin Line Advisory - https://thinlineadvisory.com/Stella Mental Health - https://stellamentalhealth.com/The Story of Our Trauma Podcast - https://www.thestoryofourtrauma.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/docshaunaspringer/Fire Rescue 1 article - https://www.firerescue1.com/fire-careers/childhood-trauma-and-public-safety-careers-is-there-a-connectionPsychology Today - https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/contributors/shauna-h-springer-phd?page=2The Fatal 10, Dr. Olivia Johnson - https://www.youtube.com/live/iWz0ki3Kylk?si=kyi9aSz2gbx2i6Ld

    1h 1m
  5. Episode #21 - Addiction, Obesity and Trauma with Dr. Kathleen Hallinan

    12/07/2025

    Episode #21 - Addiction, Obesity and Trauma with Dr. Kathleen Hallinan

    In this conversation, Daniel Sundahl and Dr. Kathleen Hallinan explore the intricate relationship between mental health, addiction, and trauma. Dr. Hallinan shares her personal journey and professional insights into treating addiction, emphasizing the importance of understanding underlying trauma and the role of medication in recovery. They discuss food addiction, the concept of neurohacking, and how social media can be leveraged for positive change. The conversation also highlights the need for self-care practices, the significance of training for first responders, and the role of creativity in mental health treatment. Overall, the discussion underscores the importance of community support and finding the right resources for those struggling with addiction and mental health issues.Takeaways• Addiction often stems from underlying trauma.• Medication can significantly aid in addiction recovery.• Food addiction is as complex as substance addiction.• Neurohacking techniques can help manage stress and anxiety.• Social media can be a tool for positive change.• Finding the right support is crucial for recovery.• Self-care practices are essential for mental well-being.• De-escalation training is vital for first responders.• Creativity plays a role in problem-solving in healthcare.• Community support is key in addressing mental health issues.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mental Health and Addiction01:07 Personal Journey and Family Influence03:31 The Role of Medication in Addiction Treatment09:52 Understanding Addiction and Trauma16:22 Food Addiction and Obesity Treatment23:43 Neurohacking and Resilience Strategies29:13 The Power of Present Moment Awareness31:07 Neurohacking: Strategies for Stress Management35:29 Social Media: A Tool for Empowerment40:46 Navigating Addiction: The Role of Support and Medication45:55 Challenges in Mental Health Care Access48:29 Training First Responders: De-escalation and Mental Health54:08 Self-Care Practices for Mental Well-beingLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleen-hallinan-md-mph-37b0974/YouGotThis YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@weightloss007/featuredAndrew Huberman: https://www.youtube.com/@hubermanlabBooks:Atomic Habits - JamesClear: https://a.co/d/0eVKkPeIn the Realm of Hungry Ghosts – Dr. Gabot Mate: https://a.co/d/6lWnM8RChange your Diet Change your Mind – Dr. Georgia Ede: https://a.co/d/eBn7MIB

    1 hr
  6. Episode #20 - Acupuncture for Trauma, Addiction, Sleep and Weight loss with Dr. Vanessa Ebertz

    11/30/2025

    Episode #20 - Acupuncture for Trauma, Addiction, Sleep and Weight loss with Dr. Vanessa Ebertz

    In this episode of the DanSun Health podcast, Daniel Sundahl interviews Dr. Vanessa Ebertz, an acupuncturist specializing in trauma healing. They discuss the profound effects of ear acupuncture on mental health, addiction recovery, and overall well-being. Vanessa shares her journey into acupuncture, the science behind its effectiveness, and the importance of integrating alternative healing methods into traditional therapy. The conversation highlights the Ear Acupuncture Resilience Program developed for first responders, showcasing its positive impact on PTSD and stress levels. Vanessa emphasizes the need for open-mindedness in healing and the importance of self-care practices.Takeaways• Acupuncture can effectively address trauma and PTSD symptoms.• Ear acupuncture serves as a microsystem for the entire body.• The NADA protocol is a recognized method for addiction recovery.• Acupuncture helps restore balance and homeostasis in the body.• Self-care practices are essential for mental health and well-being.• The Vagus nerve plays a crucial role in regulating stress responses.• Community support and alternative therapies can enhance recovery.• Acupuncture is both an art and a science, allowing for creative treatment approaches.• Therapy should be as common as visiting a dentist.• Being open to various healing modalities can lead to profound changes.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Acupuncture and Trauma Healing02:48 Vanessa Ebertz's Journey into Acupuncture05:39 Community Impact: Acupuncture After Natural Disasters07:45 Research and Development in Ear Acupuncture10:42 Understanding the Mechanism: How Ear Acupuncture Works13:56 Acupuncture and Addiction Recovery19:32 The NADA Protocol: A Lifeline for Substance Abuse22:36 Acupuncture for Sleep and Stress Management28:28 Balancing Energy: Acupuncture for Weight Loss and Fatigue30:00 Nourishing the Spleen: The Impact of Diet on Digestion33:55 Acupuncture and Trauma: A Holistic Approach to Healing39:58 The Ear Acupuncture Resilience Program: A Study in Effectiveness44:08 Self-Care Practices: Nourishing the Mind and Body48:39 Creativity in Acupuncture: The Art and Science of Healing51:34 Finding Help: Embracing Therapy and Alternative Healing MethodsLinksDr. Vanessa Ebertzhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessa-ebertz-27224a355/?originalSubdomain=ca● Acupuncturists Without Borders (AWB) https://acuwithoutborders.org/ ● YYC Acupuncture Relief Project https://www.facebook.com/YYCAcupunctureReliefProject/ ● National Acupuncture Detox Association (NADA) https://acudetox.com/ ○ Film: Dope is Death: The story of how The Black Panthers & Young Lords brought ear acupuncture detox treatment to the Bronx in the 1970s to combat Heroin addiction for their community https://burnsfilmcenter.org/booking/dope-is-death/?utm_source=chatgpt.com ● Auricular Trauma Protocol (ATP) https://hmieducation.com/pub/publications/hmi_5429a6e797d46.pdf ● Ear Acupuncture Resilience Program (EAR): https://earacupunctureresilience.com/ ● Wayfound Mental Health Group Acupuncture: https://www.wayfound.ca/acupuncture ● Blue Frog Wellness: https://bluefrogwellness.ca/ ● Blue Frog Wellness Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BlueFrogWellness ● Daniel Levatin: https://www.daniellevitin.com/ (All of his work is interesting!) ○ Book: I Heard there was a Secret Cord: https://wwnorton.com/books/i-heard-there-was-a-secret-chord

    57 min
  7. Episode #19 - Transitioning from Public Safety to Civilian Life with David S Blackburn

    11/23/2025

    Episode #19 - Transitioning from Public Safety to Civilian Life with David S Blackburn

    In this episode of the DanSun Health podcast, Daniel Sundahl speaks with David S. Blackburn, the director of military services for Prospect Human Services. They discuss the organization's role in supporting public safety personnel and veterans in their transition to civilian life, focusing on the Forces at Work program. The conversation highlights the psychological challenges faced by these individuals, the importance of identity, and the various workshops and support services offered to aid in their re-employment. David shares his personal journey, emphasizing the significance of self-care, community connection, and the need for ongoing support in mental health and wellbeing.Takeaways• Prospect Human Services helps a wide range of job seekers.• The Forces at Work program started in 2011 to assist military personnel.• Transitioning from service involves significant psychological challenges.• Identity is a crucial aspect of the transition process.• Workshops are tailored to support public safety personnel.• Self-care practices are essential for mental health.• Community connection is vital for resilience.• Understanding the Fatal 10 factors can help prevent suicide.• David's personal journey highlights the importance of support.• There are numerous opportunities for transitioning personnel in various sectors.• The therapeutic alliance is a key factor in effective therapy.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mental Health and Wellbeing02:57 Overview of Prospect Human Services06:01 Forces at Work Program and Its Impact09:07 Challenges Faced by Public Safety Personnel10:37 Identity and Transitioning from Service13:33 Workshops and Support for Transitioning Personnel16:41 Understanding Trauma and Change19:35 The Fatal 10 and Its Implications22:28 Personal Experiences and Insights25:00 Conclusion and Future Directions30:39 Facing Trauma and Finding Purpose33:19 Navigating Career Transitions for First Responders37:33 Identifying Opportunities Beyond First Response39:36 The Importance of Community and Connection42:19 Self-Care Strategies for Mental Health51:18 Supporting Nonprofits and Community InitiativesLinks:Prospect Human Services:Webpage: https://www.prospectnow.ca/Events Webpage: https://www.prospectnow.ca/upcoming-events-and-workshops/Phone Number: 1-877-483-2562Facebook: @prospecthumanservicesLink to Donate to Prospect: https://wl.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E359069QE&id=15Forces@WORK: Public Safety Personnel Program:F@W: PSP Webpage: https://www.prospectnow.ca/forces-at-work-psp/F@W: PSP Email: Service@ForcesAtWork.ca or forcesatworkservice@prospectnow.ca

    55 min
  8. Episode #18 - Low Barrier Mental Health Support with Gary Thandi, MSW RSW

    11/16/2025

    Episode #18 - Low Barrier Mental Health Support with Gary Thandi, MSW RSW

    In this episode of the DanSun Health podcast, Daniel Sundahl speaks with Gary Thandi, founder of Moving Forward Family Services, about the importance of low-barrier support in mental health services. They discuss the challenges faced by social workers, the concept of moral distress, and the need for innovative solutions to improve access to mental health care. Gary shares insights on the role of creativity in problem-solving, the significance of family support, and the barriers that prevent individuals from seeking help. The conversation emphasizes the importance of connection, self-care, and normalizing therapy for everyone.Takeaways• Gary Thandi has over 20 years of experience in social work and has founded Moving Forward Family Services.• Low-barrier support is essential for making mental health services accessible to those in need.• Moral distress occurs when social workers know what clients need but cannot provide it due to systemic limitations.• The traditional mental health system often excludes vulnerable populations due to restrictive criteria.• Creativity in problem-solving is crucial for addressing the complex needs of clients.• Connection to community and nature plays a significant role in mental health and well-being.• Therapy should be normalized and accessible for everyone, similar to physical health care.• Self-care is vital for mental health professionals to prevent burnout and moral distress.• Advocacy for clients is necessary to improve the mental health system.• The therapeutic alliance is a key factor in effective therapy.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mental Health and Low Barrier Support02:23 The Birth of Moving Forward Family Services06:19 Understanding Moral Distress in Social Work11:24 Moral Distress vs. Moral Injury15:29 The Importance of Family Support in Therapy19:53 Breaking Down Barriers in Mental Health Services24:59 Creativity in Problem Solving for Mental Health28:38 The Window of Opportunity in Mental Health33:03 Barriers to Accessing Mental Health Services37:32 Normalizing Mental Health Conversations39:27 Self-Care and Personal Wellbeing44:48 Advice for New Therapists49:01 Encouraging Mental Health for Everyone50:59 Supporting Mental Health OrganizationsLinks:Moving Forward Family Services: https://movingforward.help/Donate to Moving Forward Family Services: https://movingforward.help/sponsor-donateGary’s LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-thandi-msw-rsw-6b458042/Gary speaking about grief and loss: https://youtu.be/N7HFqUXfrEs?si=_ZKpg1hX5YCa0rVb

    57 min
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About

DanSun Health is a space dedicated to breaking the silence around mental health through powerful visual storytelling and honest conversation. Created by internationally recognized artist, paramedic, retired firefighter and counselling therapist Daniel Sundahl, this channel explores the intersection of trauma, healing, and the human experience. 🎨 Therapeutic art and how the creative process benefits mental wellbeing 🧠 Mental health discussions grounded in real-world experience 💬 Tools for Post-Traumatic Growth 🌱 Inspiration for personal growth, connection, and wellbeing

Information

  • Creator
    Daniel Sundahl
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Daniel Sundahl
  • Show Website
    DanSun Health Podcast