The Why Project Podcast

Bailey Cook
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Mental Health
  • Weekly

Because everyone has a "why". Sharing education, lived experiences, and hope for the healing journey First Episode Out May 31st.

Episodes

  1. Oct 21

    Not Wanting to Die Isn’t the Same as Wanting to Live | Sam’s Story

    Meet Sam. 🩷 Sam has struggled with depression and suicidal ideation for a good part of his adult life. But he is so much more than his struggles. He’s a father, a husband, a son, a student, a friend, and so much more. In this episode of The Why Project, Sam opens up about his ongoing mental health journey, his experiences as a client in therapy, what has and hasn’t helped him, and why he’s pursuing a master’s degree in psychology. We also discuss how depression and suicidal ideation affect his marriage, how loved ones can support someone who is struggling, and why checking in on the people around us matters more than we might realize. This is an honest conversation about the complicated reality of living with depression, the importance of connection, and remembering that people are so much more than their hardest battles. We hope this conversation reminds you that you are not alone, that you deserve support, and that your story matters. 🩷 ⚠️ CONTENT WARNING This episode includes discussions of suicidal ideation, depression, mental health struggles, and the impact of these experiences on relationships. Please listen at your own discretion and take care of yourself while listening. 🩷 NEED SUPPORT? If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, you are not alone. Call or text 988 in the United States to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support, 24/7. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. If someone in your life might be struggling, consider reaching out, listening without judgment, and reminding them that they don't have to face things alone. ABOUT THE WHY PROJECT The Why Project is a mental health podcast dedicated to sharing real stories, connecting people through lived experiences, and offering education and resources to help people feel less alone. We believe that connection matters and that sometimes hearing someone else's story can help us find a reason to keep going. Thank you for being here. 🩷 CONNECT WITH THE WHY PROJECT Subscribe for more honest conversations about mental health, lived experiences, hope, and the reasons we keep going. #TheWhyProject #MentalHealth #MentalHealthAwareness #SuicidePrevention #SuicideAwareness #Depression #DepressionAwareness #SuicidalIdeation #MentalHealthMatters #YouAreNotAlone #EndTheStigma #MentalHealthSupport #MentalHealthPodcast #Therapy #TherapyJourney #Psychology #PsychologyStudent #LivedExperience #MensMentalHealth #MensMentalHealthMatters #MarriageAndMentalHealth #RelationshipsAndMentalHealth #MentalHealthEducation #MentalHealthAdvocacy #BreakTheStigma #MentalHealthConversation #988Lifeline #SuicideCrisisLifeline #HopeAndHealing #ConnectionMatters #ReasonsToLive #YouMatter #TheWhy #Podcast #PodcastInterview #RealStories #DepressionSupport

    Not Wanting to Die Isn’t the Same as Wanting to Live | Sam’s Story

  2. Oct 5

    You Are Not Your Thoughts | My Honest Conversation About OCD

    What if the thoughts you’re fighting aren’t actually the problem—but the way you’ve been taught to respond to them is?In this episode of the Y Project Podcast, I’m getting incredibly honest about something I’m currently walking through: my own struggle with OCD.I’m in a season where my OCD has been especially difficult, and instead of hiding from it, I decided to dig deeper and talk about it. What actually is OCD? Why can our brains create such convincing “false alarms”? What happens when intrusive thoughts turn into compulsions? And how do we begin breaking the cycle?We talk about the false alarm cycle, intrusive thoughts, compulsions, the exhausting reality of OCD, and some of the experiences and words from others who understand what it’s like to live with it.But this conversation isn’t just about the struggle. It’s about hope.One of the biggest messages I want to leave you with is this: we are not our thoughts.We may not be able to control every thought that enters our minds, but we can learn to control how we interact with those thoughts. We can choose how we respond. We can challenge the patterns that no longer serve us. And, with intentionality and practice, we can begin rewiring our minds to better serve our purpose.You are not powerless against your mind.You can learn to respond instead of react. You can step out of the cycle. You can choose a different path.We are the masters of our own mind.Also, a few exciting Y Project updates: our brand-new website is launching next week, and we’re officially moving to a Monday posting schedule, with new episodes dropping in the afternoon. Turn on your notifications so you don’t miss the next one.Thank you for being here, for listening, and for being willing to have the hard conversations with me.Let’s keep growing. Let’s keep learning. And let’s keep choosing the life we want to build. RESOURCES: OCD Anxiety Center: https://www.ocdanxietycenters.com/locations/ocd-anxiety-centers-south-jordan-utah/ OCD Anxiety Center Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ocdanxietycenters/ False Alarm Cycle: https://www.instagram.com/p/DWE7VeYFKyK/ Some Books I've Loved On OCD: https://www.amazon.com/Stop-Obsessing-Overcome-Obsessions-Compulsions/dp/0553381172/ https://www.amazon.com/Freedom-Obsessive-Compulsive-Disorder-Personalized-ebook/dp/B00DYX9PX8/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=Y4Oq7&pf_rd_p=29505bbf-38bd-47ef-8224-a5dd0cda2bae&pf_rd_r=ZR6QW1WRSK6NM6N6HYHF&pd_rd_r=e82e763a-d18a-4d57-8bb9-0e96e2f6c0df&pd_rd_wg=1n7fc&ref_=pd_gw_ci_mcx_mr_hp_atf_m https://www.amazon.com/Mindfulness-Workbook-OCD-Overcoming-Compulsions/dp/1684035635/ #thewhyproject #OCD #OCDAwareness #IntrusiveThoughts #OCDRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #YouAreNotYourThoughts #MasterYourMind #Hope #PersonalGrowth

    You Are Not Your Thoughts | My Honest Conversation About OCD

  3. Aug 23

    A Little Life Update | OCD, ADHD Medication & What’s Next for The Why Project

    A little life update from me 🤍 The Why Project is taking a short 3–4 week break from new podcast episodes while I work on a little rebrand + some exciting changes behind the scenes. But I’m definitely not disappearing! I’ll be much more active on social media during this time, sharing more of my everyday life, mental health journey, and everything happening behind the scenes of The Why Project. In this episode, I’m catching you up on: ✨ What’s been going on in my life 🧠 My mental health + OCD update 💊 My experience with ADHD medication 🎙️ Why I’m taking a short podcast break 💗 What’s changing with The Why Project 👀 What you can expect when I come back Thank you for being here and growing with me. This project means so much to me, and I’m really excited for what’s coming next. 🫶🏼 Follow along on social media while I’m away: *The Why Project: Facebook- https://www.facebook.c... Instagram- https://www.instagram.... Tiktok- https://www.tiktok.com... *Follow Me Personally Everywhere at: @baileyanneharrison The Why Project — creating space for honest conversations about mental health, human connection, and the stories that make us who we are. #TheWhyProject #TheWhyProjectPodcast #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #MentalHealthJourney #OCD #OCDAwareness #OCDRecovery #ADHD #ADHDMedication #Neurodivergent #LifeUpdate #Personalgrowth

  4. Aug 2

    Hospitalization Isn't Giving Up, It's Choosing Life | Tori's Story

    Growing up in a family where mental health wasn't openly discussed, Tori had to learn how to advocate for herself long before she knew what healing would look like. In this conversation, she shares her journey through depression, anxiety, panic attacks, suicidal ideation, and being psychiatrically hospitalized twice within one year.Together, we talk honestly about what psychiatric hospitalization is really like, when it may be the right step, and why it shouldn't carry the stigma it often does. Tori explains how those experiences became an important part of her healing rather than something to hide.She also shares how, after years of searching for answers, she was diagnosed with ADHD and high-functioning autism, helping her realize that many of the struggles she had attributed solely to depression were part of a much bigger picture.Beyond mental health, Tori opens up about navigating her queer identity while growing up in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the pain, questions, and complexity that came with that journey, and how she continues to seek authenticity and connection.We also discuss why it's okay to change therapists as your needs evolve and how healing often means finding support that fits the season you're in.Tori's "why" is connection. She believes that being seen, understood, and loved by others is one of the greatest reasons to keep going—and she hopes her story helps someone else feel a little less alone. Resources: Suicide Hotline- 988 Lift&Love- https://www.liftandlove.org/ Flourish- https://www.flourishtherapy.org/ More Information on Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation- https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/transcranial-magnetic-stimulation/about/pac-20384625 I was built by Me and Tori- https://youtu.be/lakvKpC-Re4?si=Jm0xpLyCigG-IG5L Links: Quotes of hope: https://forms.office.com/r/ktYJGASKDg?origin=lprLink Share your story: https://forms.office.com/r/h7XPh9LGJE?origin=lprLink Recommendation Form: https://forms.office.com/r/NmUV6XVcby?origin=lprLink Social Links- TikTok: hutm_source=qrktok.com/@_thewhyproject?_r=1&_t=ZT-96or6LT998I Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/share/1CeQ7vizph/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewhyprojectpodcast?utm_source=qr Email: mailto:thewhyproject_@outlook.com Tori's Links: Main insta: https://www.instagram.com/just.tori.turner Music insta, tiktok, and YouTube:@torissongsandstories Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0w5gaS0mTRlnNMXjFzaUvu?si=5JNLqmqnRRGN8FpCc8vCBg&utm_source=copy-link #MentalHealth #MentalHealthAwareness #Depression #Anxiety #PsychiatricHospitalization #EndTheStigma #SuicidePrevention #SuicidalIdeation #TherapyWorks #HealingJourney #ADHD #Autism #Neurodivergent #LGBTQ #QueerJourney #FaithJourney #LDS #Hope #TheWhyProject #YouAreNotAlone

  5. Jul 19

    Life After My Brother's Suicide | Grief, Healing, and the Conversation We Need to Have

    Content warning: This episode contains discussions of suicide, grief, and mental health.Nine years after losing her brother to suicide, this week's guest shares the story that forever changed her family. She opens up about the grief, guilt, questions, and healing that followed, while offering an honest look at what life has been like in the years since.Together, we talk about the impact suicide has on those left behind, what helped her family through the darkest moments, and how we can better support loved ones experiencing unimaginable loss. Whether you've lost someone, are supporting a grieving family, or simply want to better understand the realities of suicide and mental health, this conversation is filled with compassion, hope, and reminders that no one should have to carry their pain alone.If you are someone you know is struggling this is a sign to reach out and get help. Choose to stay. Links- SUICIDE HOTLINE: 988 Hope4Utah: https://hope4utah.com/ Quotes of hope: https://forms.office.com/r/ktYJGASKDg?origin=lprLink Share your story: https://forms.office.com/r/h7XPh9LGJE?origin=lprLink Recommendation Form: https://forms.office.com/r/NmUV6XVcby?origin=lprLinkSocial Links- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@_thewhyproject?_r=1&_t=ZT-96or6LT998IFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/share/1CeQ7vizph/?mibextid=wwXIfrInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewhyprojectpodcast?igsh=eWlrOWViaHVjajB2&utm_source=qrEmail: thewhyproject_@outlook.com #MentalHealth#SuicidePrevention#MentalHealthAwareness#HealingJourney#GriefSupport#EndTheStigma#Podcast#MentalHealthPodcast#TheWhyProject#Storytelling#RealConversations#HumanConnection#YouAreNotAlone#HopeAfterLoss#GriefJourney#HealingTogether#ItsOkayToTalk#ChooseHope

  6. Jul 6

    Religious Trauma, Suicidal Thoughts & Finding Purpose | Collin’s Story

    Content Warning: This episode includes discussions of suicide, suicidal ideation, religious trauma, and mental health. In this deeply honest conversation, Colin shares his journey through religious trauma, surviving suicidal ideation, and ultimately finding purpose by becoming a social worker. We talk about growing up in the LDS Church, how trauma can shape our relationship with ourselves and with faith, and what he's learned through his education and experience working as a therapist with LGBTQ+ clients. Most importantly, we discuss the life-changing power of human connection and why feeling seen can make all the difference. Whether you've experienced religious trauma, struggled with your mental health, questioned your faith, or simply want to better understand the people around you, this conversation is one I hope leaves you feeling less alone. If this episode resonates with you, I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Your story may help someone else feel seen. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please reach out to someone you trust or contact your local crisis resources. You don't have to go through it alone. 🤍 Subscribe for more conversations about mental health, healing, and human connection. Resource Links:  Suicide Hotline: 988  Flourish Therapy: https://www.flourishtherapy.org/  Brene Brown Empathy vs Sympathy: https://youtu.be/KZBTYViDPlQ?is=NUcww2hwaXr-C1z2 Do you have a story you’d like to share? Please fill out this form:  https://forms.office.com/r/h7XPh9LGJE?origin=lprLink Do you have recommendations to someone we should reach out to, to have on the podcast? Click this link: https://forms.office.com/r/NmUV6XVcby?origin=lprLink Contact info: thewhyproject_@outlook.com  Follow us on all our socials:  TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@_thewhyproject?_r=1&_t=ZT-96or6LT998I  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1CeQ7vizph/?mibextid=wwXIfr  Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thewhyprojectpodcast?utm_source=qr #MentalHealth #ReligiousTrauma #SuicidePrevention #HealingJourney #Therapy #SocialWork #FaithJourney #LGBTQ #MentalHealthAwareness #Connection #Hope #TheWhyProject #Podcast #ChristianMentalHealth #TraumaHealing

  7. Jun 21

    Episode 4: Living a Beautiful Life with Bipolar Disorder | Heidi's Story

    What happens when you spend decades struggling with a mental health condition without knowing its name?In Episode 4 of The Why Project, Heidi shares her deeply personal journey of living with undiagnosed bipolar disorder throughout her childhood, teenage years, and adulthood until finally receiving a diagnosis in her 40s while raising three children.She discusses the life-changing impact of medication, the challenges bipolar disorder has brought to her relationships as a wife, mother, and grandmother, and the ways she has learned to cultivate love, connection, and hope despite the difficulties of the disorder.This conversation is an honest look at the reality of bipolar disorder—but more importantly, it is a story of resilience, healing, and discovering that joy is still possible. Resources and Outreach Links: Suicide Hotline: call or text 988 Quotes of hope: https: //forms.office.com/r/ktYJGASKDg?origin=lprLink Share your story: https://forms.office.com/r/h7XPh9LGJE?origin=lprLink Recommendation Form: https://forms.office.com/r/NmUV6XVcby?origin=lprLink Social Links- TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@_thewhyproject?_r=1&_t=ZT-96or6LT998I Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1CeQ7vizph/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewhyprojectpodcast?igsh=eWlrOWViaHVjajB2&utm_source=qr Email: thewhyproject_@outlook.com

  8. Jun 15

    Episode 3: ADHD Medication, Mental Health Hot Takes & Hard Truths I Think We Need to Talk About | The Why Project

    This week’s episode is a little more personal. I’m sitting down for a raw, unfiltered conversation about a difficult week I’ve had adjusting to a new ADHD medication, navigating the ups and downs of mental health, and what it looks like to show up honestly even when things feel messy. Want to skip straight to the controversial hot takes? Jump to 10:00. 👀 In this episode, I share three opinions that may challenge the way we think about mental health:     •    Hot Take #1: The role of personal choice and responsibility during a mental health crisis.     •    Hot Take #2: Why I believe therapists should not only support their clients, but also hold them accountable.     •    Hot Take #3: Christian beliefs, faith communities, and the stigma that can sometimes surround mental health. My goal with these conversations is not to shame, judge, or claim to have all the answers. It is to create space for thoughtful discussion, curiosity, and deeper understanding around the complex realities of mental health. Thank you for being here, for listening, and for being willing to have the hard conversations with me. Links & resources mentioned in this episode will be listed below ↓ Suicide Hotline: call or text 988  Quotes of hope: https://forms.office.com/r/ktYJGASKDg?origin=lprLink Share your story: https://forms.office.com/r/h7XPh9LGJE?origin=lprLink Recommendation Form: https://forms.office.com/r/NmUV6XVcby?origin=lprLink Couple, Individual & Family Therapy: https://share.google/b17JFteHf5xNUhRpf Home - H.E.R. Wings Unfold: https://share.google/NwpMvHSBgNL4ihBRh Social Links-  TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@_thewhyproject?_r=1&_t=ZT-96or6LT998I Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1CeQ7vizph/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thewhyprojectpodcast?igsh=eWlrOWViaHVjajB2&utm_source=qr Email: thewhyproject_@outlook.com

  9. Jun 7

    Episode 2 | Healing From Complex PTSD and Childhood Trauma | The Why Project

    In this powerful episode of The Why Podcast, we sit down with a courageous woman who shares her journey of healing from complex PTSD. After experiencing childhood sexual abuse, growing up with an alcoholic father, and enduring deep betrayal in her marriage, she found herself carrying wounds that impacted every area of her life. In this conversation, she opens up about the realities of trauma, the challenges of recovery, and the work that helped her begin to heal. This episode is an honest look at resilience, hope, and what it means to reclaim your life after profound hardship. ⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of childhood sexual abuse, trauma, PTSD, addiction, and marital betrayal. If this conversation resonates with you, please remember that support is available, and you are not alone. Thank you for listening to The Why Podcast. LINKS TO RESOURCES FROM THE SHOW BELOW: Prodependence: Moving Beyond Codependency https://share.google/Y42P549lq16D5n49f Saprea Retreat | Support for Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse https://share.google/zQdT8YuMKvgoiITyK Home - H.E.R. Wings Unfold https://share.google/NwpMvHSBgNL4ihBRh TS-12 ANON - Home https://share.google/QlNZWfN336jhBKvf5 Home | Association for Partners of Sex Addicts Trauma Specialists https://share.google/aVtG5oVPtZulRHrcE LifeStar of Salt Lake - Specialized Recovery Programs https://share.google/fP7AoZBsxKqWe1hsZ Couple, Individual & Family Therapy https://share.google/b17JFteHf5xNUhRpf

  10. May 31

    Episode 1: Why We Stayed

    Welcome to the very first episode of our Mental Health Resource Center Podcast. We created this podcast with one mission in mind: to provide hope, education, resources, and connection for anyone navigating life's challenges. In this introductory episode, we share the vision behind the Mental Health Resource Center and why we believe conversations about mental health matter. My husband, Sam, and I also open up about parts of our own journeys and the experiences that inspired us to create this space. Through future episodes, you'll hear from us, mental health professionals, and everyday people who have faced adversity, found healing, and discovered purpose. Our goal is to create a place where stories are shared, resources are accessible, and no one feels alone in their struggles. Whether you're looking for support, seeking knowledge, or simply hoping to find a little light in a difficult season, we're glad you're here. Thank you for joining us as we begin this journey together. Quotes of hope: https://forms.office.com/r/ktYJGASKDg?origin=lprLink Share your story: https://forms.office.com/r/h7XPh9LGJE?origin=lprLink Recommendation Form: https://forms.office.com/r/NmUV6XVcby?origin=lprLink Social Links-  TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@_thewhyproject?_r=1&_t=ZT-96or6LT998I Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1CeQ7vizph/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thewhyprojectpodcast?igsh=eWlrOWViaHVjajB2&utm_source=qr Email: thewhyproject_@outlook.com

  • 10 Episodes

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About

Because everyone has a "why". Sharing education, lived experiences, and hope for the healing journey First Episode Out May 31st.

Information

  • Creator
    Bailey Cook
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Bailey Cook
  • Show Website
    The Why Project Podcast