Mojo, Motivation & Mental Health

Michael G Orlowski
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The Mojo, Motivation & Mental Health podcast shares real stories of resilience and transformation. Raw Stories, Real Emotion. increasing mental health awareness isn't about being perfect — it's about being honest. Get your MOJO Back!

  1. 3d ago

    The Gift That Saved His Life | Chason Forehand | #20 | Mojo, Motivation & Mental Health

    What does it take to rebuild a life after losing everything? In this episode, Chason Forehand shares how he survived years of abuse, addiction, homelessness, and incarceration — and how one life-changing gift, culinary training, set him on a path to founding the Transformation Kitchen. It's an honest conversation about addiction recovery, life after incarceration, paying it forward, and breaking the cycles of poverty that trap so many — and how Chason's programs now offer lifelong healing, skills, and hope across the U.S. and Nicaragua. In this episode: ·       Chason shares his personal story of trauma, addiction, and resilience ·       The impact of a life-changing gift—culinary training—that shifted his trajectory ·       How the Transformation Kitchen helps individuals break cycles of poverty, addiction, and incarceration ·       The significance of paying it forward and creating community-driven solutions ·       The role of legislation like the Psychological Safety Act in fostering healthier workplaces ·       Unique insights into building sustainable international programs in Nicaragua and the U.S. ·       Practical approaches to mental health, wellness, and leadership development for underserved populations   Connect with Chason Forehand: ·       HR4U Website: https://hr-4u.org/ ·       LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chason-forehand-rcf1222/   Connect with Mike Orlowski ·       Website ·       LinkedIn ·       Facebook ·       Instagram   Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Changing lives with conversation and impact 00:48 - Chason's background: Overcoming childhood trauma and systemic barriers 03:13 - The early years: Family dynamic, abuse, and survival 06:11 - Turning to drugs and homelessness during college years 09:40 - Incarceration and the pivotal moment with a mentor in culinary arts 14:31 - The power of paying it forward: Support from a sober mentor 16:18 - The importance of faith, community, and the 12-step path 18:54 - Building Transformation Kitchen: A model for long-term hope 21:44 - International work: Nicaragua's transformational impact 25:34 - Launching the program in Beacon, NY: Timeline and goals 26:31 - Beyond culinary skills: Life skills, wellness, and leadership 32:50 - Breaking the cycle: How poverty, addiction, and incarceration intertwine 38:30 - Advocating for the Psychological Safety Act and creating fair workplaces 44:12 - Words of encouragement: Hope for those struggling 45:58 - The essence of being a beacon of hope 46:34 - The limitless potential of transformation when given support 47:15 - Connecting with Chason and supporting Transformation Kitchen   Join the movement: Your kindness can ignite hope and transform communities.

    50 min

  2. Jun 30

    I Found My Best Friend After Suicide | Bernie DeSantis III | #19 | Mojo, Motivation & Mental Health

    In this heartfelt episode, Bernie DeSantis III shares his personal story of losing his best friend to suicide and how that tragic loss moved him to teach others the warning signs, how to ask the hard question, and how to help someone who's suicidal. Bernie turned grief into action — building virtual events, community, and education around suicide prevention — and offers real guidance for anyone supporting a loved one in crisis or healing as a suicide loss survivor.   Connect with Bernie: ·       Insignia Training: https://insigniatraining.com/ ·       Let’s Talk About Suicide Event 8/19/2026:  https://info.insigniatraining.com/aug-lets-talk-about-suicide-registration ·       LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/badiii/   Connect with Mike Orlowski ·       Website ·       LinkedIn ·       Facebook ·       Instagram ·       TikTok ·       X   Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction & crisis hotline importance 00:45 - Bernie shares his story of finding his friend 02:14 - The emotional and life-changing impact of the loss 04:36 - Recognizing early warning signs of suicide 06:51 - The moment Bernie found his friend 08:40 - Overcoming grief through education and community support 10:10 - How "Let's Talk About Suicide" events raise awareness 11:45 - The long journey of grief and healing 13:13 - Key warning signs and phrases to watch for 15:04 - Common misconceptions and red flags 16:00 - The structure and purpose of virtual suicide awareness events 17:02 - How engaging virtual events help break stigma 18:16 - Supporting self-regulation and mental wellness practices 19:24 - The importance of direct language in conversations 21:41 - Personal insights on speaking openly about suicidal thoughts 22:46 - Risk factors and demographic insights 26:36 - Practical questions to inspire hope in someone considering suicide 28:45 - The role of community and professional help 29:34 - The scope of Bernie's work with virtual events for various clients 32:10 - What is a death doula and end-of-life conversations 36:09 - How to support someone affected by suicide loss 37:38 - The transformative power of talking about suicide 38:17 - The importance of awareness, education, and community 39:43 - Accessibility of virtual mental health events 41:09 - Final thoughts and encouragement to take action Remember: Geographic location does not limit access to mental health support. Your life matters. Reach out, and don't be afraid to ask the hard questions. Call or text 988 for help. 911 for Emergencies.

    42 min

  3. Jun 23

    Gentle Parenting Is Making Anxiety Worse | Dr. Andrea Mata | #18 | Mojo, Motivation & Mental Health

    Why the most mental-health-aware generation in history is also the most anxious? In this episode Mike Orlowski & Dr. Andrea Mata explore how gentle parenting and overprotection can backfire, how social media fuels comparison, and why strong relationships may be the single biggest predictor of a long, healthy life. Real, actionable insights for parents, employers, and young adults navigating today's mental health challenges. Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro: the Gen Z mental health crisis 01:16 - Why Gen Z expects mental health support at work 02:45 - How parenting styles drive youth anxiety 03:15 - Mental health misinformation from social media influencers 04:45 - Life skills: financial literacy and independence 06:04 - Overparenting and its effects on self-reliance 07:13 - Why more young adults live in their parents' basements 08:31 - The cost of not teaching coping skills early 09:37 - Teaching financial literacy through experience 10:47 - Allowance and budgeting: kids and responsibility 12:12 - Building independence in college students 13:18 - Undoing gentle parenting and setting boundaries 14:12 - Discipline, consequences, and why boundaries matter 16:49 - Workplace mental health and business outcomes 22:37 - The loneliness epidemic and its health dangers 29:40 - Social media, comparison anxiety, and body image 37:39 - The health risks of loneliness and disconnection 41:16 - Relationships as the key to health and longevity 49:55 - Strategies for young people facing comparison anxiety 52:14 - Course-correcting overparenting toward independence 52:48 - Talking openly about mental health and expressive journaling 55:01 - Resources and closing words for parents, employers, and individuals   Connect with Mike Orlowski ·       http://www.mojomotivates.com ·       https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeorlowski/ ·       https://www.facebook.com/MOJOMotivates ·       https://www.instagram.com/mike_orlowski/ Connect with Dr. Andrea Mata: ·       https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdremata/ ·       https://www.instagram.com/drdremata/ ·       https://www.youtube.com/@drdremata ·       https://www.tiktok.com/@drdremata ·       https://andreadmata.com/ ·       https://brightspotfamilies.com/ ·       https://amzn.to/4giZFWU

    58 min

  4. Jun 16

    Invisible Illness, Real Strength | Jackie Lauricella-Perry | #17 | Mojo, Motivation & Mental Health

    In this episode, Mike Orlowski hosts Jackie Lauricella Perry to explore the realities of living with anxiety from childhood, supporting loved ones through health crises, and cultivating radical acceptance. Their candid discussion offers practical insights for navigating invisible illnesses, fostering safe relationships, and transforming mental health challenges into opportunities for growth. Connect with Mike Orlowski • Website • LinkedIn • Facebook • Instagram • TikTok • X Connect with Jackie Lauricella-Perry • Jackie Lauricella Perry's Website • Instagram - Jackie Lauricella Images • LinkedIn Timestamps: 00:00 - Introducing mental health conversations that change lives 00:44 - Guest introduction: Jackie Lauricella Perry's journey 01:11 - Supporting loved ones through brain tumors and health crises 02:12 - Childhood anxiety: signs and early fears 02:38 - Panic attacks in childhood and strange fears 03:03 - Anxiety in young children and internalized fears 03:29 - Athletic training and panic before physical activities 04:25 - Self-internalized pressure and childhood stress 05:01 - Physical responses: numbness, breathing difficulty, night terrors 05:49 - Impact of gut health on anxiety and mental wellness 06:16 - How diet sensitivities affect mental health and body reactions 09:12 - Managing disordered eating and shifting perceptions 10:20 - Personal struggles with binge eating and bulimia 12:34 - Overcoming disordered eating with therapy and support 14:01 - The influence of a friend's sudden passing on anxiety and health fears 17:10 - Therapy, medication, and gut health considerations 18:45 - Jackie’s athletic training background and transition to entrepreneurship 19:26 - Supporting Josh through significant life crises and grief 21:28 - Recognizing depression and providing support in grief 23:26 - Radical acceptance as a foundation of their relationship 26:13 - Boundaries in relationships and acceptance of differences 27:02 - Personal growth through understanding and patience in marriage 28:26 - Not taking external actions personally and practicing compassion 31:47 - The importance of proactive couples therapy for relationship growth 33:48 - Overcoming resistance to therapy and societal perceptions 35:13 - Navigating mental health through pregnancy and body changes 38:18 - Managing mental health and body image alongside motherhood 39:11 - The value of being present and managing fears about motherhood 43:42 - The fleeting nature of time with children and appreciating each stage 44:24 - Jackie’s shift from athletic training to photography after pandemic disruptions 48:53 - Athlete mindset in managing anxiety and accepting life’s rhythm 50:27 - Supporting others with invisible illnesses and mental health struggles 51:45 - The profound impact of radical acceptance on life and motherhood 52:53 - Creating space for loved ones to be fully themselves 54:15 - Final encouragement for seeking help, cultivating relationships, and spreading awareness Remember: Invisible illnesses are real and managing mental health while supporting loved ones is a form of strength. Seek help when needed, practice radical acceptance, and prioritize your well-being. Sharing this episode could be a step toward someone else finding support and hope.

    55 min

  5. Jun 9

    Tough It Out Culture Is Killing Athletes | Dr. Sam Maniar | #16 | Mojo, Motivation & Mental Health

    Inside the Mind of an Athlete: Mental Health, Performance, and Breaking the Stigma In this episode of Mojo Motivation and Mental Health, host we discuss the often unseen mental health pressures faced by athletes, from high school to professional levels, and how the sports culture can both contribute to and help heal these struggles. Expert guest Dr. Sam Maniar shares insights on coaching impacts, social media stress, and the importance of mental health support in sports and beyond.  We talk about the hidden mental health challenges, the influence of NIL, coaching styles and more.    Connect with Mike Orlowski ·       Website ·       LinkedIn ·       Facebook ·       Instagram ·       TikTok ·       X   Connect with Dr. Sam Maniar: InstagramFacebookWebsiteX    Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome and show's purpose: addressing mental health in sports 01:12 - The current pressures athletes face in the age of NIL deals and social media 02:41 - Comparing performance pressures in sports and corporate roles 05:08 - Rising mental health struggles and lack of coping skills among athletes 06:46 - Impact of social media negativity and public scrutiny 08:04 - The importance of supportive environments and role of trainers and staff 09:40 - The significance of athlete stories and public figures sharing their struggles 11:27 - Challenges unique to professional sports and confidentiality issues 13:44 - The need for mental health resources and stigma reduction in youth sports 15:01 - Coaching styles and their effects on mental health 16:18 - Signs of mental health issues and how coaches can support athletes 18:10 - Developing supportive coaching teams and communication 19:49 - The importance of mental health professionals in sports teams 22:22 - Injury, recovery, and mental health support for injured athletes 24:53 - Strategies for reducing stigma and encouraging help-seeking 27:06 - Organizational efforts to improve mental health care availability 28:38 - The alarming rise of athlete suicides and the importance of ongoing conversations 30:11 - Corporate work: coaching executives to manage stress and lead effectively 40:11 - The link between mental health and motivation, especially during COVID 44:21 - Practical mental health tools: journaling, mindfulness, and managing distractions 52:19 - The myth of choosing between performance and well-being—both are essential 54:38 - Connecting with Dr. Maniar and resources for mental health support

    57 min

  6. Jun 2

    From Fentanyl Loss to Mental Health App | Jeff Johnston | #15 | Mojo, Motivation & Mental Health

    In this episode, Jeff Johnson shares his transformative journey from devastating personal loss to creating Brightn, an AI-driven mental health app. After losing his son to Fentanyl, wife to Alcoholism and mother, Jeff turned his grief into a mission to prevent similar tragedies.   Connect with Jeff Johnston: ·       BrightnApp — AI-powered mental health app focusing on resilience ·       Jeff's book: This One's For You — Jeff's journey through addiction and purpose ·       LinkedIn ·       Twitter – Brightn App ·       Instagram – Brightn App   Connect with Mike Orlowski ·       Website ·       LinkedIn ·       Facebook ·       Instagram ·       TikTok ·       X   Timestamps: 00:00 - Introducing Jeff's journey of loss and purpose 02:17 - The mental health epidemic and the need for upstream solutions 05:09 - Shifting focus from symptoms to prevention 06:41 - Jeff’s personal story of childhood, success, and early signs of struggle 08:38 - The impact of misdiagnosis and substance abuse in Seth’s story 10:07 - The profound moment of Seth’s release from prison and subsequent overdose 13:26 - Jeff’s experience with suicidal thoughts and near self-harm 14:44 - Breaking down overwhelming grief into manageable parts 16:05 - Communicating grief to children and the importance of honesty 18:45 - The metaphor of life choices after tragedy – anger vs. love 20:19 - The "fork in the road" moment and Jeff’s commitment to love and hope 21:43 - Overcoming alcoholism and the role of deep introspection 23:26 - Supporting Prudence through sobriety and her death 25:37 - Jeff’s mental health breakdown and the fight for survival 26:53 - The power of psychedelics and reframing painful memories 33:02 - The journey to creating Brightn as a preventative mental health platform 37:44 - The importance of purpose, love, and community in resilience-building 42:53 - How Brightn works: journaling, mood tracking, and AI support 48:13 - Shifting mental health from labeling to empowerment 55:29 - The value of community and connection in healing 60:06 - Practical advice for those facing catastrophic loss and grief 66:24 - The possibility when we reframe stories and focus on hope 70:29 - The message: Prevention, connection, and purpose save lives

    1h 12m

  7. May 26

    A Modern Day Miracle on Route 95 | Jim Rinere | #14 | Mojo, Motivation & Mental Health

    Finding Hope and Connection: Jim Rinere’s Journey from Darkness to Light In this episode, Jim Rinere shares his powerful story of surviving trauma, depression, and a near-fatal suicide attempt. His journey highlights the importance of connection, vulnerability, and redefining masculinity to foster mental health and healing.   Resources & Links Connect with Jim Rinere: ·       Jim Rinere on TikTok — Supportive videos on mental health ·       Jim Rinere’s Website — Learn more about his journey and programs ·       Amazon: Coffee in the Fridge by Jim Rinere — Purchase the book ·       Instagram ·       LinkedIn   Connect with Mike Orlowski ·       Website ·       LinkedIn ·       Facebook ·       Instagram ·       TikTok ·       X Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: The power of connection in mental health 02:24 - Jim’s childhood trauma and its impact on his life 06:28 - The 2005 suicide attempt: a detailed recounting 10:02 - Jim’s recovery journey and how he started talking publicly about mental health 17:09 - Choosing vulnerability over shame & empowering others to seek help 20:04 - Men’s emotional repression and its repercussions 22:53 - Redefining masculinity: blending strength with emotional openness 27:35 - The "suicide cycle" and how repressed anger fuels it 30:01 - Practicing conscious self-forgiveness and managing ego 32:28 - The importance of meditation and mindfulness for mental health 39:34 - Jim’s “Roadmap to Health”: sleep, nutrition, exercise & gratitude 44:05 - Using TikTok as a platform for outreach and support 48:20 - Advice for men struggling with emotional repression and suicidal thoughts 51:27 - The power of connection and having a support system 53:38 - The possibility of hope, healing, and a fulfilling life after crisis 54:42 - Final thoughts: choosing life and living with purpose

    59 min

  8. May 19

    The Curve: Where Jason Planned to Die | Jason Barnaby | #13 | Mojo, Motivation & Mental Health

    Surviving The Curve: Where Jason Planned To Die Main Topics: ·       The 'curve' and moments of suicidal thoughts ·       Recognizing and fighting the voices of self-doubt ("what ifs") ·       Finding your fire: passion, purpose, and community ·       The power of therapy, medication, and mental health awareness ·       Using the Enneagram for self-awareness and stress management ·       Practical steps: starting small and building momentum Contact Jason Barnaby: ·       Fire Starters Inc. — Jason Barnaby’s company ·       Jason on LinkedIn ·       Instagram   Connect with Mike Orlowski ·       Website ·       LinkedIn ·       Facebook ·       Instagram ·       TikTok ·       X Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Overcoming mental health struggles and finding your tribe 02:17 - Jason's story: Thoughts of ending his life at the 'curve' 03:54 - Recognizing numbness and emotional detachment 06:45 - The importance of mental health assessments and medical help 08:29 - The impact of starting medication and self-reflection in the mirror 09:34 - The awakening: seeing life in a new light after treatment 11:10 - Sharing struggles publicly and breaking stigma 13:37 - The 'crack in the door' and momentum toward healing 17:54 - How to reframe the negative voices ("voice in your head") 20:00 - Talking back to the "what ifs" and imposter syndrome 22:52 - Fighting self-sabotage and the importance of small wins 25:02 - Finding your fire: passion, purpose, and fan your flame framework 28:21 - The ember inside us and nurturing it into a flame 32:03 - The power of positive feedback and self-awareness 35:44 - Overcoming fear: taking small steps 44:16 - Integrating the Enneagram for personal growth and stress management 48:53 - The core message of Jason's books 50:30 - Common 'what ifs' and insecurities that hold us back 55:18 - Call to action: Seek help, speak your story, and start today 56:44 - Starting with small, achievable goals ("strike the match") 58:34 - Connecting with Jason: LinkedIn and social media links

    1h 2m
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The Mojo, Motivation & Mental Health podcast shares real stories of resilience and transformation. Raw Stories, Real Emotion. increasing mental health awareness isn't about being perfect — it's about being honest. Get your MOJO Back!

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