Noggin Notes Podcast

Jake Wiskerchen
  • 4.9 (39)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Weekly

Noggin Notes aims to educate and enrich your noggin about mental illness and wellness. Conversations range from factual and data-based to theoretical and idea-based. We welcome your input at info@nogginnotes.com or info@zephyrwellness.org. Noggin Notes is not intended as a substitute for professional counseling but we really do hope you can adopt and use some of what we share in order to improve your own life and to seek peace and wellness every day.

  1. From Diagnosis to Advocacy: Tim McDonald’s Stage IV Cancer Journey

    2d ago

    From Diagnosis to Advocacy: Tim McDonald’s Stage IV Cancer Journey

    In this powerful and deeply human episode, we sit down with Tim McDonald, a Stage IV colorectal cancer survivor, advocate, and author, to hear his extraordinary story of resilience, courage, and self-advocacy. Tim opens up about the emotional, physical, and psychological realities of navigating a life-changing cancer diagnosis—and how learning to advocate for himself became one of the most important parts of his journey. Through his experience, he discovered that surviving serious illness often requires more than treatment alone: it requires finding your voice, asking hard questions, and refusing to disappear inside the system. In this episode, we discuss: Tim’s journey through Stage IV colorectal cancer The emotional impact of facing mortality and uncertainty Why self-advocacy in healthcare is critical for patients and families What he learned about resilience, support, and human connection His mission to help others navigate serious illness with courage and clarity This conversation is not only for those affected by cancer, but for anyone navigating hardship, caregiving, or personal transformation. Tim’s story is a reminder that even in the darkest moments, people can reclaim agency, meaning, and hope.   Mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, are real, common and treatable. And recovery is possible. To take your Free Mental Health screening visit https://walkthetalkamerica.org/ or click the following link.  TAKE A MENTAL HEALTH TEST We hope you enjoy this episode. Today’s show is brought to you by Audible and Zephyr Wellness. Audible is offering our listeners a free audiobook with a 30-day trial membership. Just go to www.audibletrial.com/9WOGmy and browse the unmatched selection of audio programs – download a title free and start listening.. If you have any questions or request send us a message at info@nogginnotes.com / info@zephyrwellness.org Hope you enjoy the podcast and please go ahead subscribe and give us a review of our show. You can write a review on iTunes.

    1 hr

  2. May 25

    The People’s Therapist: Jake Freeman on Therapy, Accountability, and Modern Men

    In this episode, we sit down with Jake Freeman — licensed marriage and family therapist, Marine Corps veteran, and organizational development consultant known by many as “The People’s Therapist.” Based in Montana, Jake brings a unique blend of military leadership, systems thinking, and clinical insight into the therapy room. After serving over a decade as a Marine Corps officer in Civil Affairs, legal, and HR roles, he transitioned into mental health with a mission: to create the kind of therapist he himself could never find. Through his practice, CareerFlex, Jake works with high-performing couples, executives, and men who often feel disconnected from traditional therapy models. His approach is direct, relational, and grounded in accountability — focusing not just on insight, but on meaningful transformation. In this conversation, we explore: Why many men feel therapy is “too soft” or disconnected from their reality Jake’s personal journey from the Marine Corps into therapy The importance of pattern recognition and relational accountability Why understanding systems is essential for rebuilding relationships and personal stability What modern therapy often gets wrong about men, leadership, and change This episode is a powerful conversation about resilience, identity, responsibility, and creating spaces where people can engage honestly without performance or pretense.   Mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, are real, common and treatable. And recovery is possible. To take your Free Mental Health screening visit https://walkthetalkamerica.org/ or click the following link.  TAKE A MENTAL HEALTH TEST We hope you enjoy this episode. Today’s show is brought to you by Audible and Zephyr Wellness. Audible is offering our listeners a free audiobook with a 30-day trial membership. Just go to www.audibletrial.com/9WOGmy and browse the unmatched selection of audio programs – download a title free and start listening.. If you have any questions or request send us a message at info@nogginnotes.com / info@zephyrwellness.org Hope you enjoy the podcast and please go ahead subscribe and give us a review of our show. You can write a review on iTunes.

    1h 44m
  3. Ryan Malphrus on Men’s Mental Health, Behavioral Issues in Boys, and What Therapy Should Feel Like

    Apr 28

    Ryan Malphrus on Men’s Mental Health, Behavioral Issues in Boys, and What Therapy Should Feel Like

    In this episode, we sit down with Ryan Malphrus, a Licensed Certified Social Worker (Clinical) with over a decade of experience helping adolescents and adults navigate meaningful personal growth—especially men who often feel underserved by traditional mental health care. We begin with a critical and timely topic: why so many boys are labeled with behavioral issues in school—and what might be misunderstood beneath the surface. From there, the conversation expands into the broader mental health challenges facing men and boys, and why many struggle to find support that truly resonates. Ryan shares his psychodynamic approach to therapy, emphasizing the importance of understanding one’s full life story and building a real, honest therapeutic relationship where nothing is off-limits. In this episode, we explore: Why boys’ behavior is often misunderstood or misinterpreted in school systems The ongoing mental health crisis among men and boys What makes therapy effective—and what clients should actually expect in a session The importance of fit, trust, and openness between therapist and client How exploring your story can unlock meaningful and lasting change Ryan’s work is rooted in the belief that true growth happens not just through insight—but through experiencing a different kind of relationship, one built on honesty, curiosity, and acceptance. This episode is for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of men’s mental health, therapy, and personal growth—whether you're a client, parent, or practitioner.   Mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, are real, common and treatable. And recovery is possible. To take your Free Mental Health screening visit https://walkthetalkamerica.org/ or click the following link.  TAKE A MENTAL HEALTH TEST We hope you enjoy this episode. Today’s show is brought to you by Audible and Zephyr Wellness. Audible is offering our listeners a free audiobook with a 30-day trial membership. Just go to www.audibletrial.com/9WOGmy and browse the unmatched selection of audio programs – download a title free and start listening.. If you have any questions or request send us a message at info@nogginnotes.com / info@zephyrwellness.org Hope you enjoy the podcast and please go ahead subscribe and give us a review of our show. You can write a review on iTunes.

    1h 21m

  4. Apr 1

    Leslie Elliott Boyce on Counseling Education, Graduate Schools, and Ideological Bias in Mental Health

    In this insightful episode, we sit down with Leslie Elliott Boyce, an independent coach and consultant with a background in clinical mental health counseling, to explore how the counseling profession has evolved—and how graduate education has played a central role in shaping it. Leslie, co-founder of Solid Ground and host of The Radical Center, brings a thoughtful and balanced perspective to the conversation, examining how training programs, academic frameworks, and institutional cultures influence the way therapists are taught to think, practice, and engage with clients. In this episode, we explore: How graduate schools shape the counseling profession The role of ideological bias in education and psychology What emerging therapists are (and aren’t) being prepared for Why intellectual diversity and open dialogue matter in training clinicians How we can move toward a more balanced, grounded future in mental health care This episode is for clinicians, students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the systems behind therapy—and how they impact both practitioners and the people they serve.   🎧 Explore more of Leslie’s work: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theradicalcenter Website: https://theradicalcenterconsulting.com/   Mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, are real, common and treatable. And recovery is possible. To take your Free Mental Health screening visit https://walkthetalkamerica.org/ or click the following link.  TAKE A MENTAL HEALTH TEST We hope you enjoy this episode. Today’s show is brought to you by Audible and Zephyr Wellness. Audible is offering our listeners a free audiobook with a 30-day trial membership. Just go to www.audibletrial.com/9WOGmy and browse the unmatched selection of audio programs – download a title free and start listening.. If you have any questions or request send us a message at info@nogginnotes.com / info@zephyrwellness.org Hope you enjoy the podcast and please go ahead subscribe and give us a review of our show. You can write a review on iTunes.

    1h 21m

  5. Jan 31

    Conservative Counselors: Soad Tabrizi on Restoring Integrity, Truth, and Balance in Mental Health

    In this timely and necessary conversation, we speak with Soad Tabrizi, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of clinical experience and the founder of Conservative Counselors—a growing directory connecting clients with reality-based therapists who reject ideological capture in mental health. Together, we explore what the term “Conservative Counselors” actually means, why it has emerged, and why it matters in today’s therapeutic landscape. Soad explains how increasing ideological pressure within the counseling profession has left many clinicians and clients feeling unseen, unheard, or silenced—and why intellectual diversity and moral courage are essential for ethical, effective therapy. In this episode, we discuss: What defines a Conservative Counselor (and what it does not) How ideology has shaped modern therapy culture Why clients are actively seeking therapists grounded in realism, truth, and personal responsibility The risks of ideological conformity for both clinicians and mental health outcomes How restoring balance, integrity, and open inquiry can strengthen the profession Soad writes on Substack and for Human Events, where she unapologetically argues that conservative clinicians not only belong in mental health—but play a vital role in its future. Her work centers on truth, courage, and protecting the therapeutic space as one of genuine inquiry rather than indoctrination. This episode is for clinicians, clients, students, and anyone concerned with the future of mental health care and the importance of preserving therapeutic neutrality, honesty, and human dignity.   Mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, are real, common and treatable. And recovery is possible. To take your Free Mental Health screening visit https://walkthetalkamerica.org/ or click the following link.  TAKE A MENTAL HEALTH TEST We hope you enjoy this episode. Today’s show is brought to you by Audible and Zephyr Wellness. Audible is offering our listeners a free audiobook with a 30-day trial membership. Just go to www.audibletrial.com/9WOGmy and browse the unmatched selection of audio programs – download a title free and start listening.. If you have any questions or request send us a message at info@nogginnotes.com / info@zephyrwellness.org Hope you enjoy the podcast and please go ahead subscribe and give us a review of our show. You can write a review on iTunes.

    1h 20m

  6. 11/24/2025

    Nervous System Leadership: Ann de Passos on Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Practice, and Resilient Teams

    In this returning conversation, we welcome back Ann de Passos, leadership consultant, coach, and facilitator who specializes in nervous system–informed leadership. Drawing on 15+ years across charity, corporate, and social enterprise sectors, Ann guides leaders and teams to operate from clarity, relational intelligence, and embodied resilience. We take a deep dive into the nervous system and Polyvagal Theory to answer a simple but powerful question: How do we learn to be human? Ann explains why understanding the body’s wiring is the essential first step to changing how we lead, communicate, and respond under pressure. Topics include: The basics of Polyvagal Theory and why the nervous system shapes behavior at work Somatic practices leaders can use to reduce burnout and recover faster from stress Systems thinking + emotional intelligence: designing cultures that sustain people and performance Practical tools for strengthening team connection, psychological safety, and values-led decision making If you’re a leader, manager, coach, or anyone who wants to lead from steadiness instead of reactivity, this episode offers grounded science, practical exercises, and real-world strategies to build healthier, high-performing organisations.   Mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, are real, common and treatable. And recovery is possible. To take your Free Mental Health screening visit https://walkthetalkamerica.org/ or click the following link.  TAKE A MENTAL HEALTH TEST We hope you enjoy this episode. Today’s show is brought to you by Audible and Zephyr Wellness. Audible is offering our listeners a free audiobook with a 30-day trial membership. Just go to www.audibletrial.com/9WOGmy and browse the unmatched selection of audio programs – download a title free and start listening.. If you have any questions or request send us a message at info@nogginnotes.com / info@zephyrwellness.org Hope you enjoy the podcast and please go ahead subscribe and give us a review of our show. You can write a review on iTunes.

    1h 4m

  7. 11/03/2025

    Brant Elwood: Mythic Archetypes, Group Unconscious, and the Psychology of Organizations

    In this deep, mythic conversation, we welcome Brant Elwood, author of Gods, Heroes and Groups: Relational Dynamics through Mythic Archetypes and an MA in social-organizational psychology. Brant blends mythopoetic lineage with practical organizational insight to reveal the unconscious dynamics that govern how groups behave — in communities, workplaces, and treatment settings. We explore: How mythic archetypes (gods, heroes, tricksters) show up in group roles and organizational life Rites of passage work with young men during the pandemic and what that revealed about leadership, belonging, and responsibility The group unconscious — patterns we enact without awareness and how they shape decision-making, conflict, and culture Practical ways leaders and community members can be mindful of their roles so they don’t unconsciously repeat damaging patterns Why integrating mythic thinking helps organizations surface the undiscussed and rediscover healthier relational dynamics This episode is for leaders, therapists, organizational consultants, and anyone curious about the hidden stories that run our groups. Brant’s approach offers a poetic but practical map for recognizing the forces that shape group life — and for acting with conscious intention instead of falling into unconscious roles.   Mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, are real, common and treatable. And recovery is possible. To take your Free Mental Health screening visit https://walkthetalkamerica.org/ or click the following link.  TAKE A MENTAL HEALTH TEST We hope you enjoy this episode. Today’s show is brought to you by Audible and Zephyr Wellness. Audible is offering our listeners a free audiobook with a 30-day trial membership. Just go to www.audibletrial.com/9WOGmy and browse the unmatched selection of audio programs – download a title free and start listening.. If you have any questions or request send us a message at info@nogginnotes.com / info@zephyrwellness.org Hope you enjoy the podcast and please go ahead subscribe and give us a review of our show. You can write a review on iTunes.

    1h 8m

  8. 10/27/2025

    Free Speech & Therapy: Dr. Chloe Carmichael

    In this timely episode, Dr. Chloe Carmichael — clinical psychologist, USA Today bestselling author of Nervous Energy, and longtime educator — returns to Noggin Notes to explore why free speech matters in therapeutic settings and how self-censorship can damage both therapists and clients. We dig into the practical and ethical stakes: how open dialogue supports accurate diagnosis, trust, and psychological growth; how fear of controversy or professional consequences leads clinicians to self-censor; and the downstream mental-health costs when people (therapists or clients) silence honest thought and feeling. Dr. Chloe draws on clinical experience, research, and her work teaching clinicians to explain why courageous, curious conversation is often central to healing — and how constricted speech can worsen anxiety, shame, and isolation. Whether you’re a clinician, student, or someone seeking therapy, this conversation is an urgent, compassionate case for protecting honest speech in the therapy room — and for noticing how self-silencing affects mental health in everyday life.   Mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, are real, common and treatable. And recovery is possible. To take your Free Mental Health screening visit https://walkthetalkamerica.org/ or click the following link.  TAKE A MENTAL HEALTH TEST We hope you enjoy this episode. Today’s show is brought to you by Audible and Zephyr Wellness. Audible is offering our listeners a free audiobook with a 30-day trial membership. Just go to www.audibletrial.com/9WOGmy and browse the unmatched selection of audio programs – download a title free and start listening.. If you have any questions or request send us a message at info@nogginnotes.com / info@zephyrwellness.org Hope you enjoy the podcast and please go ahead subscribe and give us a review of our show. You can write a review on iTunes.

    49 min
See All (217)

4.9
out of 5
39 Ratings

About

Noggin Notes aims to educate and enrich your noggin about mental illness and wellness. Conversations range from factual and data-based to theoretical and idea-based. We welcome your input at info@nogginnotes.com or info@zephyrwellness.org. Noggin Notes is not intended as a substitute for professional counseling but we really do hope you can adopt and use some of what we share in order to improve your own life and to seek peace and wellness every day.

Information

  • Creator
    Jake Wiskerchen
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    217
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026, Noggin Notes Ripinga Enterprises Limited All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Noggin Notes Podcast

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