Who We Are | a Mental Health Podcast with Zach Molock

Zach Molock
  • 4.0 (4)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to "Who We Are" – a podcast dedicated to sharing personal stories of mental health struggles and triumphs. Join me, Zach Molock, as we delve into the complexities of mental health and explore practical ways to navigate them in our daily lives. Having battled mental health challenges for nearly 20 years, I've become a passionate advocate for mental well-being. This podcast aims to bring us together, fostering conversations that break the stigma and promote a supportive community. Let's embark on this journey to improve our mental health and quality of life together!

  1. May 10

    Healing After Church Hurt: Finding Hope with Amanda Cunningham

    Discover the complex layers of spiritual abuse, church dysfunction, and leadership misconduct through Amanda Cunningham’s powerful story. This episode sheds light on how hidden systemic issues in churches can deeply affect mental health, faith, and community. In this episode: ​Amanda shares her journey at Lake Pointe Church and the disillusionment with leadership shifts after 2019.​The gradual erosion of women’s ministries, transparency, and biblical integrity.​Controversies including plagiarized sermons, inappropriate jokes, and manipulative tactics.​Patterns of spiritual abuse, narcissistic leadership, and how accountability is often avoided.​Practical advice for churches and parishioners facing similar red flags, including recognizing signs of escalation.​Emphasis on prayer, finding safe connections, and the importance of holding leadership accountable.​The impact of social culture, celebrity ties, and the need to disconnect from spiritually harmful environments.​Amanda’s experience with backlash and her role as a voice for the voiceless among church members.The Rise and Fall of Mars Hillhttps://open.spotify.com/show/5rJtwcRM7WNYs0LNTrlP5N?si=2bfdbe4c4d664907Support & Further Help:◦Email: info@zachmolock.com for questions, stories, or resources. ◦Find a safe church community: Seek local churches with transparent leadership and biblical accountability. ◦Recognize red flags: Isolation, spiritual manipulation, dishonesty, and marginalization of mental health. ​988 LIFELINEIf you need to talk, the 988 Lifeline is here. At the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, we understand that life's challenges can sometimes be difficult. Whether you're facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, our caring counselors are here for you. You are not alone. https://988lifeline.org/

    1h 49m

  2. May 5

    Alicia in the Wild: Alicia's Story

    Join Alicia White as she shares her inspiring journey through mental health struggles, the transformative power of nature, and her mission to empower others to find healing and purpose. Discover actionable insights on mindfulness, community, and self-worth. Main topics: ​Personal mental health journey and recovery​Power of nature and outdoor activities for mental well-being​Building community and overcoming imposter syndrome​Alicia's personal mental health journey, including struggles with depression, anxiety, and perfectionism​How therapy, group support, and authentic connections helped her realize she's not broken​The significance of Yellowstone and nature in resetting her mental state and gaining clarity​Practical grounding exercises using senses to stay present and reduce stress​The importance of reconnecting with childhood love for nature and how it sustained her through life's challenges​Overcoming imposter syndrome by recognizing personal value and the power of shared experiences​The role of community in mental health recovery, breaking the stigma, and supporting others​How Alicia transitioned from her career in healthcare and marketing to motivational speaking and photography​Lessons learned from her trips to Yellowstone and the lessons of prioritizing self-care and presence​Advice for aspiring speakers and those hesitant about their voice, emphasizing authenticity and purpose​⁠Alicia in the Wild⁠​⁠Yellowstone National Park⁠​⁠Grounding exercises for mindfulness⁠​⁠Zig Ziglar's inspiration⁠​⁠Imposter Syndrome Articles⁠​⁠Public Speaking Tips⁠​⁠Mindfulness Exercises⁠​Suicide Hotline: ⁠https://988lifeline.org/

    53 min

  3. Apr 29

    Set Free: Overcoming Addiction, Mental Health, and Embracing Redemption with Trevor Rathbun

    Set Free: Overcoming Addiction, Mental Health, and Embracing Redemption This episode features Trevor Rathbun sharing his powerful journey from addiction to redemption through faith in Jesus. His story reveals raw truths about mental health struggles, the importance of authentic community, and the transformative power of surrender to Christ. Key topics include: Trevor's early struggles with identity and the progression into drug addictionHow military service influenced his sobriety and mental healthThe pivotal moment with God that shifted his life's trajectoryThe role of community, small groups, and programs like re-engage in healingBiblical figures like Samson exemplifying strength and vulnerabilityThe importance of loving oneself and forgiving past mistakesPractical steps for those seeking help todayRe-engage MinistryNarcotics Anonymous (NA)Powerlifting ResourcesBible Characters & Stories No matter where you are in your journey, God's love and forgiveness are always accessible. Take that one small step today towards healing. Much Love.

    1h 18m

  4. Apr 22

    Strong, but Struggling: What Ruth Teaches Women Today with Jamie Kelly

    This episode explores the powerful story of Ruth from the Bible and its profound implications for women's mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health today. Our discussion emphasizes how resilience, support, and faith can help women navigate loss and mental health challenges.Key Topics: The societal expectations placed on women and the silent struggles they faceHow Ruth’s story of losing everything yet persevering offers lessons in resilienceThe importance of support systems and community in mental health recoveryMicro-steps and purpose as tools for managing depression and griefAddressing hormonal health, body image, and self-care in womenThe need to break the stigma around mental health, especially for menPractical ways women can create space for their mental health dailyThe significance of seeing intrinsic value in every woman, regardless of circumstancesRuth’s story as a biblical blueprint for navigating loss, grief, and hopeThe Bible Project: RuthManaging Depression: Practical StrategiesSupport Resources - The Lifeline Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome and episode overview: Ruth's story and women’s health02:24 - Personal reflections on grief and legacy04:12 - The societal pedestal of strong women and its hidden costs09:14 - Micro-steps and purpose in managing depression11:03 - The link between physical health and mental health: addressing eating disorders12:37 - Silent struggles women face around weight and body image14:33 - Women’s tendency to silently carry burdens and neglect self-care16:02 - The importance of community and support networks for women20:46 - Ruth’s significance in biblical and modern women’s stories21:46 - The strength found in Ruth’s resilience and endurance through loss Connect with Zach: info@zachmolock.com or molockzach@gmail.com Connect with Jamie: jamie.kelly16@icloud.com Additional Notes: This episode underscores that strength often looks like continued hope and small steps forward. Women are encouraged to prioritize their well-being and recognize their intrinsic worth beyond societal expectations. Ruth’s story serves as a biblical testimony to resilience, faith, and renewal amidst loss.

    1h 7m

  5. Apr 16

    Grief Part 2: Brian Willeford gives us the truth about grief that nobody tells you

    This episode kicks off season 2 of the Who We Are podcast with a deep dive into the complex world of grief. Zach Molock and special guest Brian Williford explore the many facets of grief, dispelling myths and sharing personal experiences to help listeners better understand their own journey through loss. Whether you’re mourning a loved one, a relationship, or dealing with ongoing struggles, this episode offers valuable guidance on coping and healing. Resources - Family and Medical Leave Act | U.S. Department of Labor - Get Help - 988 Lifeline Email Zach at: molockzach@gmail.com Email Brian at: bwpsk@yahoo.com YOU ARE NOT ALONE. YOU ARE LOVED.

    48 min

  6. 05/30/2025

    Kirsten's Journey: Navigating Autism

    Summary In this episode of the Who We Are podcast, host Zach Molock speaks with Kirsten Osborne, a young adult navigating her journey with autism and ADHD. Kirsten shares her experiences with mental health, the challenges of masking, and the importance of self-acceptance. She discusses her creative pursuits in writing and acting, and how her neurodivergence influences her perspective on the world. The conversation also touches on misconceptions about autism, the role of faith, and the power of humor in coping with life's challenges. Kirsten emphasizes the importance of trusting oneself and reaching out for help, encouraging others to embrace their unique journeys. Takeaways Kirsten has a background in theater and is passionate about acting and writing.Early experiences with autism were misread as being overly dramatic.Masking is a common behavior in autistic individuals, leading to anxiety and depression.Kirsten's turning point was receiving her autism diagnosis at age 23.Faith plays a significant role in Kirsten's journey and self-acceptance.ADHD influences Kirsten's creative work and how she experiences the world.Healing is nonlinear, with ups and downs in the process.Misconceptions about autism often prevent proper understanding and diagnosis.Humor helps Kirsten cope and connect with others who share similar experiences.Kirsten encourages others to trust themselves and seek help when needed. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kirsten's Journey 01:30 Navigating Autism and Mental Health 04:32 Understanding Masking and Its Impact 06:26 Self-Discovery and Trusting One's Journey 08:54 Faith and Its Role in Mental Health 13:58 The Intersection of ADHD and Autism 20:30 Creative Expression Through Challenges 25:26 Chaos and Clarity in Healing 29:15 The Importance of Self-Advocacy 33:06 Therapeutic Approaches and Personal Growth 34:43 The Power of Journaling 35:28 Understanding Stimming and Autism 36:34 Misconceptions About Autism 39:19 Reframing Autism: Support Needs vs. Functioning Labels 41:54 Empathy and Connection in Autism 45:05 The Unique Bonds of Non-Verbal Communication 48:26 The Role of Humor in Coping 51:50 The Journey of Healing: Action vs. Reflection 53:51 Messages of Self-Acceptance and Seeking Help 57:17 Final Thoughts and Resources for Understanding Autism Resources from Kirsten: Unmasking Autism by Devon Price: https://a.co/d/gHN4K7w It's written by a late-in-life diagnosed autistic and explores how social and structural changes like accessibility measures would improve the lives of both allistic and autistic people + provides a more in-depth exploration of what masking is, what unmasking looks like, and other terminology used in the community to explain and communicate our experiences.  This website has several resources ranging from fictionalized media that accurately portrays autism as well as some of the history of autism + online resources covering accessibility and adult diagnosis. ⁠https://thinkingautismguide.com/resources⁠ This is a good resource for up-to-date information on what autism is as well as relevant language/terminology used by and within members of the community. ⁠https://aane.org/autism-info-faqs/autism-basics/what-is-autism/⁠Here's another link from the above website that will take you to the FAQ directory in which the above article is located; they have several subsections of information on autism such as diagnosis, disclosing one's diagnosis, government support, education, mental health services, and more. ⁠https://aane.org/autism-info-faqs/⁠This is a resource for sensory processing difficulties and covers all different kinds of over/under-stimulation as well as copying skills/strategies to meet those challenges in a supportive, safe way. ⁠https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/sensory-differences/sensory-differences/all-audiences⁠If you need to talk, the 988 Lifeline is here.: https://988lifeline.org/

    1h 1m

  7. 03/23/2025

    Imposter Syndrome vs. The Poser: Awareness Brings Confidence

    In this episode of the Who We Are podcast, hosts Zach Molock and Brian Williford delve into the complexities of Imposter Syndrome and Poser Syndrome. They explore the definitions, similarities, and differences between the two, sharing personal experiences and insights. The conversation emphasizes the importance of authenticity, vulnerability, and the impact of external validation on mental health. Strategies for overcoming both syndromes are discussed, along with common misconceptions that surround them. The episode concludes with a reminder of the significance of sharing personal stories and seeking help when needed. Takeaways - Imposter syndrome involves doubting one's accomplishments despite evidence of success. -Poser syndrome is about projecting a false image to gain acceptance. -Both syndromes stem from insecurity and fear of rejection. -External validation can lead to feelings of inadequacy. -Sharing personal stories can help others feel less alone. -It's important to surround yourself with supportive individuals. -Growth often requires stepping out of comfort zones. -Misconceptions about these syndromes can minimize their impact. -Therapy and counseling can be beneficial in overcoming these challenges. -Everyone's story matters and can provide valuable perspective. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Imposter Syndrome 05:09 Exploring Poser Syndrome 11:06 Comparing Imposter and Poser Syndromes 16:38 Strategies to Overcome Poser Syndrome 32:38 Strategies to Overcome Imposter Syndrome 38:43 Understanding Intrusive Thoughts and Their Origins 39:51 The Importance of Trusted Relationships 41:14 Navigating Imposter and Poser Syndrome 43:04 The Interplay of Imposter and Poser Syndrome 44:50 The Power of Sharing Personal Stories 49:22 Debunking Misconceptions About Mental Health 56:24 Misconceptions Surrounding Imposter Syndrome 01:02:13 The Reality of Success and Self-Doubt 01:07:14 The Impact of Words on Mental Health 01:13:48 Final Thoughts on Mental Health Awareness

    1h 17m

  8. 03/03/2025

    Taylor Rollins- Postpartum Depression (PPD)

    In this compelling episode, Taylor Rollins opens up about her deeply personal journey with postpartum depression, shedding light on the emotional toll it took on her mental health and the challenges she faced along the way. She shares how this experience shaped her perspective, underscoring the critical need to break the stigma surrounding maternal mental health. With honesty and hope, she delves into the strategies and support systems that helped her overcome and thrive, inspiring others to seek help and embrace healing. This is a conversation you won’t want to miss. **If anyone needs to talk and feels like they have nowhere to turn, please use 988 Lifeline. Dial 988 or go to 988lifeline.org for immediate help. Don't give up. You are worth it. You are enough. You are loved. https://988lifeline.org **You are not alone. There are resources available.The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline is free, confidential, and here to help, 24/7. 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262)  https://mchb.hrsa.gov/programs-impact/national-maternal-mental-health-hotline **Postpartum Support InternationalYou are not alone and you are not to blame. Help is available. You will get better.Get Help. Call the PSI Help Line:1-800-944-4773https://www.postpartum.net

    1 hr
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Ratings & Reviews

4
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Welcome to "Who We Are" – a podcast dedicated to sharing personal stories of mental health struggles and triumphs. Join me, Zach Molock, as we delve into the complexities of mental health and explore practical ways to navigate them in our daily lives. Having battled mental health challenges for nearly 20 years, I've become a passionate advocate for mental well-being. This podcast aims to bring us together, fostering conversations that break the stigma and promote a supportive community. Let's embark on this journey to improve our mental health and quality of life together!

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