be nice. Podcast: Conversations about Mental Health & Suicide Prevention

Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan - be nice.
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A powerful series of honest conversations highlighting real stories of mental health challenges, resilience, and recovery. Each episode explores the impact of the be nice. action plan—notice, invite, challenge, and empower—while addressing suicide prevention and breaking down stigma. Through personal experiences and expert insight, we’ll also bust common myths and bring clarity to often misunderstood aspects of mental health.

  1. 1d ago

    Beyond the Stigma: A Psychiatric Nurse's Perspective on Mental Health

    What does it really mean to work in psychiatric nursing? Yianna Papadeas joins the be nice. podcast to share her experiences supporting individuals through some of their most challenging moments while helping break down the stigma surrounding mental illness. From forensic psychiatry to social media advocacy, Yianna discusses the power of education, empathy, and honest conversations in creating a more supportive community.

    25 min

  2. May 27

    Noticing the Impact: Childhood Experiences & Mental Health

    In this episode of the be nice. podcast, Christy is joined by be nice. Director of Program & Expansion, Cat Lanting, for a personal conversation about growing up with parents facing mental health challenges. Cat shares openly about her experience growing up with a father living with substance use disorder and how it shaped her own mental health journey. Together, they discuss resilience, healing and the importance of breaking stigma through honest conversations.

    24 min

  3. May 13

    Creating Systems that Support Mental Health with Megha Parekh

    In this episode of the be nice. podcast, we talk with Megha Parekh of the Jacksonville Jaguars about prioritizing mental health in the workplace. Megha shares how the be nice. action plan was introduced within the Jaguars organization and reflects on the mental health impact of experiencing a traumatic workplace event. We also discuss her involvement with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and why education, awareness, and access to resources are critical in supporting employees and communities alike.

    31 min

  4. Apr 24

    Leading with Vulnerability: Roger Bearup on Mental Health in Schools

    In this episode of the be nice. podcast, we sit down with Roger Bearup, superintendent of Grandville Public Schools, to discuss how his childhood experiences shaped his mental health journey and ultimately influenced his path into education and leadership. Roger shares how those early experiences continue to inform his approach to supporting students, staff, and families, and why prioritizing mental health education in schools is essential to helping young people feel seen, supported, and prepared to succeed.

    30 min

  5. Mar 25

    Survival, Strength & Staying Safe Online with Leyna Luttrull

    Leyna Luttrull joins us to talk about mental health and the growing risks of online exploitation, including sextortion and trafficking. Drawing from lived experience and her work in education and advocacy, she shares what to watch for and how to respond. This episode focuses on awareness, prevention, and empowering people to stay safe online. The be nice. Podcast is produced by WKTV Community Media.

    34 min

  6. Mar 12

    Recognize the Signs: Brendan's Story & a Family's Mission to Help Others

    In this powerful episode, Shawn Davis shares the story of his son, Brendan, and the profound journey his family has navigated since Brendan died by suicide. Through courage and honesty, Shawn reflects on the signs that can sometimes go unnoticed and the importance of education and paying attention when someone’s thoughts, feelings, or behaviors change. Together, we explore how individuals, families, and communities can use the be nice. action plan to recognize warning signs, start meaningful conversations, and take action to support someone who may be struggling. Brendan’s story is a reminder that awareness, compassion, and speaking up can save lives.

    33 min

  7. Feb 27

    Breaking the Silence on Disordered Eating in Sport with Rachael Steil

    In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Rachael Steil — author of Running in Silence and founder of the Running in Silence. A former All-American runner and award-winning coach, Rachael shares her lived experience with disordered eating and the culture of silence in athletics. We discuss warning signs, performance pressure, and how coaches, parents, and athletes can create healthier, more supportive environments where recovery — and thriving — are possible. The be nice. Podcast is produced by WKTV Community Media.

    31 min

  8. Feb 5

    Navigating Mental Health When Life Moves Fast with Eleni Sabracos

    In this episode of the be nice. Podcast, we sit down with Eleni Sabracos, who shares her journey of navigating mental health in the fast-paced worlds of New York City and the film and entertainment industry. We explore the power of community, the role of faith, and the importance of setting boundaries. Eleni opens up about the challenges of self-discovery, including how aging and a still-developing frontal lobe impact decision-making, and the sometimes tricky process of finding the right therapist. Tune in for an honest conversation about balance, growth, and the tools that help us thrive in demanding environments. The be nice. Podcast is produced by WKTV Community Media.

    40 min
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About

A powerful series of honest conversations highlighting real stories of mental health challenges, resilience, and recovery. Each episode explores the impact of the be nice. action plan—notice, invite, challenge, and empower—while addressing suicide prevention and breaking down stigma. Through personal experiences and expert insight, we’ll also bust common myths and bring clarity to often misunderstood aspects of mental health.

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