Joshua Benard on Music, Mental Health, and Turning Pain Into Art

Maurice Benard welcomes his son Joshua Benard back to State of Mind for a deeply personal conversation about music, acting, anxiety, depression, family, and the creative life.

After a powerful performance at The Hotel Cafe, Joshua opens up about finding his identity as a songwriter, moving from songs rooted in pain to music that also makes room for joy. He and Maurice talk honestly about sleep, depression, bipolar disorder, what it feels like to watch a parent struggle with mental health, and why openness can be both necessary and complicated.

The conversation also moves into creativity, performance, artistic influences, acting versus music, Chris Martin’s unforgettable advice to “don’t stop,” and Joshua’s perspective on pain as something that cannot always be measured or ranked. The episode closes with an intimate live acoustic performance from Joshua.

Support Resources:

🆘 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call, text, or chat 988 for 24/7 free, confidential support.

📘 "Nothing General About It" Autobiography: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0062973371

(Disclaimer: This program is intended strictly for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It does not constitute formal medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or mental health treatment protocols.)

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State of Mind Production Team: 
Host & Editorial: Maurice Benard 
Executive Producer: Paula Benard 
Director of Production & Video: Anthony Cammarata
Podcast Strategy Consultant: Aaron Calafato 
Audio Consultant: Ken Wendt