Let’s Talk Mental Health: Real Conversations the System Doesn’t Have

Jamie Hairston

Let’s Talk Mental HealthReal Conversations the System Doesn’t HaveMental health isn’t always inspirational. Healing isn’t always pretty. And some conversations are too uncomfortable for most people to have out loud. Hosted by Army veteran, writer, recovery advocate, and former addiction counselor Jamie Hairston, Let’s Talk Mental Health explores the realities behind trauma, addiction, burnout, emotional abuse, recovery, toxic relationships, nervous system overwhelm, and the mental health systems people often feel failed by. This isn’t surface-level positivity or recycled self-help advice. These are honest conversations about survival, healing, emotional exhaustion, human behavior, and what it actually takes to rebuild yourself after life falls apart. Through raw solo episodes, expert interviews, and real-world discussions, this podcast bridges lived experience with psychological insight — helping listeners feel seen, understood, and less alone in the things most people hide. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, misunderstood, stuck in survival mode, or like nobody talks about the hard parts of healing… this podcast is for you. New episodes weekly. #MentalHealth #Trauma #AddictionRecovery #Burnout #Healing #EmotionalAbuse #PTSD #RecoveryJourney #MentalHealthPodcast #SelfDevelopment

  1. 1d ago

    Rewriting the Story of Trauma: Guided Imagery with Dr. Christopher Cortman

    What if time doesn’t actually heal all wounds? In this episode of Let’s Talk Mental Health, I sit down with Dr. Christopher Cortman, a Florida-licensed psychologist with more than 40 years in the field and over 85,000 hours of psychotherapy experience. Throughout his career, Dr. Cortman has worked with people navigating trauma, anxiety, grief, abuse, addiction, PTSD, relationship struggles, and some of the most painful experiences a person can carry. We talk about what emotional healing actually requires, why painful experiences can continue affecting us decades later, and why simply waiting for something to stop hurting is often not enough. Dr. Cortman also introduces the ideas behind his newest book, The Guided Imagery Cure: The Best Proven Methods for Quickly Resolving and Healing Trauma, and shares powerful stories from his clinical work showing how guided imagery can help people revisit painful memories, change the way those memories are experienced, and finally put unfinished emotional business in a different place. Dr. Cortman’s Latest BookThe Guided Imagery Cure: The Best Proven Methods for Quickly Resolving and Healing Trauma Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Guided-Imagery-Cure-Chris-Cortman/dp/1684817501/ Learn More About Dr. Christopher CortmanWebsite: https://srqshrink.com Books: https://srqshrink.com/book-store About Dr. Cortman: https://srqshrink.com/dr-christopher-cortman This Episode Is Supported By DUBBYI recently tried DUBBY for myself, and if you’ve been around here for a while, you already know I’m not going to recommend something just because somebody gave me a link and a discount code. If you want to try DUBBY, you can save 10% using my code: JAMIEHAIRSTON Shop here: https://www.dubby.gg/discount/JAMIEHAIRSTON?ref=zkpkmmvf Affiliate disclosure: This is an affiliate link, which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through my link, at no additional cost to you. Want Support Growing on TikTok LIVE?I also run Metamorphosis, my TikTok LIVE creator agency. Metamorphosis was built for creators who want support actually learning how to go LIVE, grow authentic communities, become more consistent, and work toward their income goals without feeling like they have to figure everything out alone. We meet creators where they are, whether you are preparing for your first LIVE or already streaming and looking for more support, guidance, and community. If you’re interested in joining Metamorphosis, you can apply here: https://www.tiktok.com/tcn/scout_creators?use_spark=1&agency_scout_source=qr_code_leads&ShareLinkID=7556994612443840525

  2. Sep 10

    Money & Mental Health: How Financial Stress Is Wrecking Creators (with Constance the Money Girl)

    This episode is sponsored. Money touches everything — safety, identity, relationships, sleep, and our ability to plan a future. In this episode of Let's Talk Mental Health, host Jamie sits down with Constance ("Constance the Money Girl"), a tax and finance professional, to unpack the very real link between financial instability and mental health. A reminder: Jamie is not a licensed therapist and this episode is not a substitute for therapy or professional tax advice — consult your own tax professional for your specific situation. If you are in crisis in the US or Canada, call or text 988. Constance is a tax professional, but listeners should consult their own tax professional. Money affects mental health because it touches safety, freedom, identity, relationships, and the ability to plan.30.6% of households experienced variable monthly income in 2023 (CFPB, Making Ends Meet in 2023).Nearly 40% of households could cover no more than one month of expenses following an income interruption.That uncertainty creates chronic stress even when annual income looks respectable on paper.The American Psychological Association identifies money as a top source of stress and links financial strain to physical health, relationship, and emotional well-being impacts (APA, Money).Meet the GuestGuest: Constance, "Constance the Money Girl" — tax professional, started her tax business in 2010.Her mission: helping people understand and reframe their relationship with money — "make your money work for you, not you work for it." Where to Find Constance ("Constance the Money Girl")TikTok: Constance the Money Girl / That Girl ConstanceFacebook: Constance Missy Jones / Taxes Done RightCoaching brand: Being You BetterResource mentioned: Creator Finance Headquarters (income/expense tracker for creators) - please reach out to Constance via Social Media at this time for this product. Resources Mentioned CFPB — Making Ends Meet in 2023 (variable income data)American Psychological Association — Money & StressIRS — Gig Economy Tax CenterIRS — Self-Employed Individuals Tax Center

  3. Sep 1

    Your Nervous System Is Talking—Are You Listening? with Dr. Julie Merriman

    What happens when stress stops feeling temporary and starts feeling normal? In this episode of Let’s Talk Mental Health: Real Conversations the System Doesn’t Have, Jamie Hairston sits down with Dr. Julie Merriman for a deeper conversation about the nervous system, chronic stress, survival mode, burnout, and the connection between our physical and mental health. Together, they explore how prolonged stress can affect memory, decision-making, relationships, parenting, creativity, work, and even our ability to recognize when something is wrong. They also discuss fight, flight, freeze, nervous system dysregulation, family patterns, social media overload, workplace pressure, and why our bodies may recognize danger or discomfort before our conscious minds do. This conversation also challenges the idea that mental health exists separately from physical health. From infections and neurological conditions to chronic stress and exhaustion, physical changes in the body can sometimes significantly influence mood, behavior, cognition, and emotional regulation. Dr. Merriman also shares practical insight into reconnecting with the body, becoming more aware of our thoughts, and learning to recognize the signals we may have spent years ignoring. If you've ever wondered why you feel on edge when nothing appears to be wrong, why relaxing sometimes feels impossible, or how someone can become so accustomed to survival mode that they no longer recognize it, this conversation is for you. Guest: Dr. Julie Merriman Author of In Pursuit of Soul Joy and Are We Gonna Have Sex or What? Host of Sexy After Fifty This episode is for educational, informational, and experiential purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, medical care, diagnosis, or professional advice. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis in the United States, call or text 988. For crisis resources outside the U.S., visit FindAHelpline.org. Connect with Dr. Julie Merriman 🌐 Official Website: Dr. Julie Merriman — Official Website🎙️ Sexy After 50 Podcast: Sexy After 50📖 In Pursuit of Soul Joy: In Pursuit of Soul Joy on Amazon — her 12-week guide addressing burnout and compassion fatigue. Dr. Julie Merriman Wellness📖 Are We Gonna Have Sex or What?: Are We Gonna Have Sex or What? on Amazon — her newer book focused on midlife desire, embodiment, intimacy, and nervous-system regulation. Listen Notes

  4. Aug 27

    Understanding Compassion Fatigue with Dr. Julie Merriman

    Compassion fatigue isn’t limited to therapists, healthcare workers, or professional caregivers. It can affect anyone who continually gives their emotional energy to others while neglecting their own needs. In this episode, Dr. Julie Merriman joins us to explain what compassion fatigue really is, how it differs from burnout, and why it may be more common than we realize. Drawing from her personal experience and three decades of work as a counselor educator, burnout researcher, author, and speaker, Dr. Merriman reveals how caring deeply for others can gradually leave us feeling depleted, disconnected, cynical, or numb. We explore how compassion fatigue can appear in our careers, relationships, caregiving responsibilities, and everyday lives. Dr. Merriman also discusses why people in helping roles often struggle to recognize their own exhaustion—or feel ashamed to ask for help. In this conversation, you’ll learn: • The difference between compassion fatigue and burnout • Common signs of emotional and nervous-system exhaustion • How compassion fatigue can affect your work and relationships • Why helpers often struggle to prioritize themselves • The importance of self-awareness, boundaries, and support • How self-compassion helps us care for others without losing ourselves If caring for others has left you feeling exhausted, detached, or unlike yourself, this conversation is a reminder that you are not alone—and that acknowledging your own needs is not selfish or a failure. ABOUT DR. JULIE MERRIMAN Julie Merriman, Ph.D., LPC-S, is a licensed professional counselor and supervisor, counselor educator, burnout researcher, author, national speaker, and podcast host. Known as “the Nervous System Architect,” she helps high-achieving women, healers, and professionals recover from burnout, compassion fatigue, and nervous-system exhaustion. CONNECT WITH DR. JULIE MERRIMAN Website: https://www.juliemerrimanphd.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.juliemerriman/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Dr-Julie-Merriman-Wellness-LLC/61564870628821/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-julie-merriman-wellness-llc-author-podcaster-coach-b9a332155/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjuliemerriman FREE RESOURCES Somatic Signatures Quiz: https://www.juliemerrimanphd.com/quiz Desire Reset Guide: https://www.juliemerrimanphd.com/desire BOOK In Pursuit of Soul Joy: A 12-Week Guide for Overcoming Burnout and Compassion Fatigue https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DH3ZYVWJ DR. JULIE’S PODCAST Compassion Fatigue Cure: From Burnout to Radiance for Women Healers 50+ https://www.juliemerrimanphd.com/compassion-fatigue-cure-1

  5. Aug 19

    When Asking for Help Isn't Enough: The Lindsay Clancy Case

    The Lindsay Clancy case sheds light on the failures of the mental health system and the complexities of seeking help. It prompts a critical examination of the system's responsibility and the impact of medication management on patient care. The conversation delves into the complexities of mental health treatment, the challenges of telehealth, the importance of thorough assessments, and the flaws in the healthcare system. It also addresses the issue of postpartum psychosis and the need for integrated healthcare. The conversation delves into the complexities of mental health care, provider accountability, and the tragic case of Lindsay Clancy. It highlights the need for improved communication, assessment, and support within the mental health system, emphasizing the importance of effective treatment and patient advocacy. Takeaways Mental health system failuresComplexities of seeking help Mental health treatment requires thorough assessments and clinical evaluations to understand the patient's needs and provide effective care.The flaws in the healthcare system, including insurance limitations and lack of integration, contribute to the challenges in mental health treatment. Mental health care requires improved communication, assessment, and support within the mental health system.Effective treatment and patient advocacy are crucial for addressing mental health challenges. Chapters 00:00 The Lindsay Clancy Case Unfolds04:42 The Responsibility of the Mental Health System18:54 Medication Management and Patient Care48:08 Complexities of Mental Health Treatment50:09 Challenges of Telehealth53:25 Importance of Thorough Assessments56:13 Flaws in the Healthcare System01:07:46 Postpartum Psychosis and Integrated Healthcare01:34:32 The Complexity of Mental Health Care01:39:35 Provider Accountability and Systemic Issues01:44:26 The Personal Impact of Mental Health Accountability02:04:29 The Lindsay Clancy Case and Intellectual Honesty02:07:00 The Need for Improved Mental Health Care

  6. Aug 11

    The Science of Resilience w/ Special Guest JD Tremblay

    What does it take to build resilience when discipline, motivation, and mental toughness are no longer enough? Jamie Hairston sits down with J.D. Tremblay; Canadian military veteran, author, integrated engineer, certified naturopathic practitioner, and ultra-endurance athlete—to explore the relationship between physical health, emotional regulation, and sustainable high performance. J.D. shares his journey from military service in Quebec to becoming one of only three athletes reported to have completed the Epic DECA: 10 Ironman-distance triathlons in 10 consecutive days across six Hawaiian Islands. Jamie and J.D. discuss the connection between nutrition, sleep, stress, and mental health, as well as how neuroplasticity allows the brain to form new pathways at any age. This episode is an honest exploration of endurance, recovery, purpose, and what it means to become stronger—not by pretending pressure does not exist, but by learning how to respond to it differently. About Our Guest: J.D. TremblayJ.D. Tremblay is a Canadian military veteran, integrated engineer, certified naturopathic practitioner, author, and ultra-endurance athlete whose work focuses on mental resilience, sustainable performance, and purposeful living. He is one of only three athletes reported to have completed the EpicDeca—10 Ironman-distance triathlons in 10 consecutive days across six Hawaiian Islands. As Director of High Performance and Mental Resilience at Hungry Warrior Academy, J.D. helps men strengthen discipline, regulate stress, rebuild their physical and emotional capacity, and lead with greater clarity and purpose. He is also the author of Hunger for More in Life: Conquer Mental Struggles, Defy Limitations, and Discover Purpose Through Epic Achievements, a memoir about confronting mental barriers, challenging personal limitations, and finding purpose through extraordinary experiences. Connect With J.D. TremblayJ.D. Tremblay’s official websiteHungry Warrior AcademyFind J.D.’s BookOfficial book and author websiteAmazon print editionAbout the Host: Jamie HairstonJamie Hairston is a U.S. Army veteran, author, and mental health advocate with a master’s degree in addiction counseling. She combines professional training with lived experience to create honest conversations about addiction, trauma, recovery, and the complicated realities of healing. Through her writing, advocacy, and podcasting, Jamie challenges stigma, amplifies stories that are too often overlooked, and reminds listeners that no one should have to navigate mental health challenges or recovery alone. Learn more about Jamie and her work at Flawed by Design Publishing. Link DisclaimerThe links provided in these show notes are included solely to help listeners learn more about the guest, his work, and his published book. Jamie Hairston nor her podcast receive commissions, referral fees, or other compensation from purchases or visits made through these links. Inclusion of a link is for informational purposes and does not constitute a paid endorsement.

  7. Aug 4 ·  Bonus

    Rebuilding Life and Breaking Habits after a Friendship Loss

    The conversation delves into the impact of an abusive friendship on mental health, the process of recognizing and recovering from the toxic relationship, and the challenges of setting and relearning boundaries. It also explores the emotional aftermath and the struggle with guilt and peacekeeping. The conversation delves into the speaker's experience of recognizing and addressing unhealthy patterns in a toxic friendship. It explores the impact of emotional manipulation, guilt, and dismissal, as well as the journey of healing, rebuilding self-trust, and learning to set boundaries. The speaker shares insights on self-abandonment and the importance of widening the lens of toxicity beyond friendships. Takeaways Recognizing and addressing toxic friendships is crucial for mental well-being.Setting boundaries and relearning peacekeeping are essential for personal growth and recovery. Recognize unhealthy patternsRebuild self-trustWiden the lens of toxicity Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background02:04 Impact on Mental Health03:40 Housekeeping and Clarifications04:08 Recognizing Abusive Friendship06:05 Manipulation and Control13:02 Emotional Aftermath and Recovery16:25 Realization of Toxic Friendship25:09 Setting Boundaries and Guilt33:54 Relearning Boundaries and Peacekeeping49:35 Recognizing Unhealthy Patterns50:08 Subtle Manipulation and Emotional Whiplash52:07 Guilt, Pressure, and Dismissal54:34 Emotional and Verbal Abuse58:22 Shame, Denial, and Grief01:00:26 Rebuilding Self-Trust01:03:03 Self-Abandonment and Healing01:17:38 Widening the Lens of Toxicity01:26:36 Learning to Stay on Your Own Side

  8. Jul 13 ·  Bonus

    I Had to Fire My Best Friend

    Sometimes the hardest person to let go of isn't an employee—it's your best friend. In this bonus episode of Let's Talk Mental Health with Jamie Hairston, I'm sharing the story behind one of the most difficult business decisions I've ever had to make: firing someone I deeply cared about. I take you back to the beginning of our friendship, explain how our personal and professional lives became intertwined, and discuss the boundaries, leadership challenges, and emotional toll that led to this decision. If you've ever struggled with setting boundaries, experienced friendship betrayal, managed employees, or wondered how to balance compassion with accountability, this honest conversation is for you. Whether you're an entrepreneur, creator, business owner, or simply navigating complicated relationships, I hope my experience helps you feel a little less alone. 💬 I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments: Have you ever had to end a friendship or working relationship with someone you cared about? What did you learn from it? 🔔 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes covering mental health, psychology, creator life, addiction recovery, boundaries, resilience, and personal growth. #MentalHealthPodcast #Boundaries #Friendship #Leadership #SmallBusiness #MentalHealth #PersonalGrowth #EmotionalWellness #EntrepreneurLife #JamieHairston

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Let’s Talk Mental HealthReal Conversations the System Doesn’t HaveMental health isn’t always inspirational. Healing isn’t always pretty. And some conversations are too uncomfortable for most people to have out loud. Hosted by Army veteran, writer, recovery advocate, and former addiction counselor Jamie Hairston, Let’s Talk Mental Health explores the realities behind trauma, addiction, burnout, emotional abuse, recovery, toxic relationships, nervous system overwhelm, and the mental health systems people often feel failed by. This isn’t surface-level positivity or recycled self-help advice. These are honest conversations about survival, healing, emotional exhaustion, human behavior, and what it actually takes to rebuild yourself after life falls apart. Through raw solo episodes, expert interviews, and real-world discussions, this podcast bridges lived experience with psychological insight — helping listeners feel seen, understood, and less alone in the things most people hide. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, misunderstood, stuck in survival mode, or like nobody talks about the hard parts of healing… this podcast is for you. New episodes weekly. #MentalHealth #Trauma #AddictionRecovery #Burnout #Healing #EmotionalAbuse #PTSD #RecoveryJourney #MentalHealthPodcast #SelfDevelopment

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