Welcome to the very first episode of the Team Jakey Podcast. Hosts Sam Zeller and Max Otten, joined by Team Jakey Executive Director Logan Janis, introduce the podcast, share the story behind Team Jakey, and explain why honest conversations about mental health matter. After losing his twin brother Jake to suicide in 2013, Sam and his family chose to confront stigma head-on by telling the truth about their loss and creating what would become Team Jakey. More than a decade later, Team Jakey has grown into a mental health nonprofit dedicated to education, awareness, resources, and community support. In this episode, the team discusses grief, suicide loss, stigma, coping mechanisms, and why there is no single "right way" to heal. They also talk openly about the role humor has played in their own journeys and why difficult conversations can help people feel less alone. Whether you're here because of your own experiences, to support someone you care about, or simply to better understand mental health, we're glad you're here. CHAPTERS 00:00 – Content Warning & Podcast Disclaimer 01:00 – Welcome to the Team Jakey Podcast 05:15 – The Suicide Loss That Started Team Jakey 06:35 – From Fundraiser to Mental Health Nonprofit 13:20 – Why Silence Fuels Stigma 14:35 – What This Podcast Is Really About 15:55 – There Is No Right Way to Grieve 16:30 – The Story That Sparked a Conversation About Coping 20:45 – Humor, Grief, and Mental Health 32:40 – Future Episodes, Therapists & Mental Health Resources 34:00 – Building Connections to Local and National Support 38:00 – Staying True to the Mission 49:00 – Reflections, Community & Looking Ahead ABOUT THE TEAM JAKEY PODCAST The Team Jakey Podcast features real conversations about mental health, grief, resilience, suicide prevention, and the experiences that shape us. Through stories, expert guests, community leaders, advocates, and occasional dark humor, our goal is to reduce stigma, increase understanding, and help people feel less alone. IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice, mental health treatment, crisis counseling, or a substitute for professional care. The conversations on this podcast may include discussions of mental health, suicide, grief, trauma, and loss. Because our hosts have experienced significant personal loss, some conversations may include humor as a coping mechanism. Our intent is never to minimize anyone's experience, but rather to create honest conversations that encourage connection, understanding, and support. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to a trusted friend, family member, mental health professional, local emergency services, or call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. RESOURCES & GET INVOLVED Learn more about Team Jakey, find mental health resources, support our mission, volunteer, attend events, or sign up to get involved: TeamJakey.org Together, we can end the stigma surrounding mental health—because we're always better together.
