Truly Mental

Joe & Jesse
  • 5.0 (36)
  • Mental Health

This podcast has been created by Joe Smarro & Jesse Trevino and it is being provided by SolutionPoint+, a national training and consulting firm that specializes in cultivating mental wellness to maximize human capital and promote safety. They are two combat veteran marines, who have been on a shared journey as best friends for the last 20+ years. Joe and Jesse were both San Antonio Police officers for 15 and 10 years, respectively, and have started a training and consulting firm which is now their full-time endeavor. They have set out on a mission to change the culture of law enforcement in America by focusing on individual wellness. They hope to eradicate first responder suicide. Welcome to the podcast, please subscribe, share, and leave comments for them both. BeWell -

  1. Jul 20

    Be a Friend to Yourself — Dr. Peter Anderson on Stoicism, Toughness, and the Inner Citadel

    Connect with Dr. Peter Anderson: Website LinkedIn Dr. Peter Anderson spent over two decades studying the ancient world — Latin, Greek, the Stoics — before burning out of academia and rebuilding from the inside. Now he translates Seneca and coaches leaders through Inner Citadel Consulting. This one goes deep on what the Stoics actually said versus what the internet thinks they said, and why it matters for anyone who works under pressure. In this episode: Peter's path from Germany to Ottawa to a PhD at Cincinnati to a tenured academic career — and the slow "hollowing out" that made him walk awayWhy "Inner Citadel" — the internal foundation that withstands every shock, and why a citadel is something you build, not something you're born withThe bridge between ancient Stoicism and modern emotional intelligence: awareness, regulation, and using feelings as dataWhy Peter uses the word "experience" instead of "emotion" — and how that unlocks people who can't name what they're feelingJoe on "dad is mad, mom is sad, I'm supposed to be glad" and the binary emotional world a lot of men grow up inAnger vs. frustration: Seneca said the solution to anger is vengeance — so what do you actually want when you say you're angry?Regulation as a nervous system skill, not a willpower contest. Deceleration is the first EI skillToughness isn't hardness. Peter's Tai Chi teachers had plenty of hard — it was their soft that hurtThe myth of the emotionless Stoic warrior: they never said stop feeling. They said interrogate it. Is it real? Is it appropriate? Is it at the right level?Epictetus and what's actually under your control: value judgments and what you do because of them. That's the whole listWhy people cling to the "maybe" — because "not under my control" is freaky and "under my control" is responsibilityJoe and Peter on how much human suffering comes from worrying about things we can't touch — including Joe's own persistent depressive disorder and "the sway" of future tripping and past dwelling

  2. Jul 1

    Blue Collar Heart, White Collar Job: Steve Bisson

    Connect with Steve:  Website Instagram LinkedIn Steve Bisson has worked in mental health and addiction treatment since 1999 — jails, corrections, parole, probation, courts, and side-by-side with first responders from day oneLicensed mental health counselor certified in CBT and EMDR, author of Finding Your Way Through Therapy, and host of the podcast Resilience Development in ActionBorn and raised in Montreal, French as his first language — Steve talks about how he ended up building his career in mental health in the U.S.The first-in-Massachusetts jail diversion program, and what riding along with first responders actually taught him about earning trust before offering helpWhat "first responder trained" therapist really means — and why the label matters less than whether a therapist can meet someone where they actually areSteve's blue-collar upbringing (a farmer, a mechanic, a dad who did the grunt work) and why he says he's got a white collar job but a blue collar heartWhy being "honest" and "real" beats being polished — and how that became his practice's mottoThe reality check every therapist needs: you're not everyone's cup of tea, and that's fineSteve's advice for finding the right fit: give it three sessions, then be honest about whether it's workingWhy geography shouldn't stop anyone from getting help — virtual therapy, out-of-state options, and finding someone with real first responder or military exposureClosing questions: the belief Steve had to unlearn about "resistant" clients, and the one sentence he'd whisper to everyone suffering in silence

  3. Mar 17

    The Hidden Cost of Sleep Deprivation in Public Safety

    Explore the critical importance of sleep science in public safety, decision-making, and bias reduction with Dr. Lois James. Discover how fatigue impacts brain function, bias, and performance, and learn practical strategies for improving sleep and mental health in high-stakes professions.  *This episode was sponsored and made possible by MILO Range Dr. Lois James: LinkedIn MILO Range Website CBTsim Website Keywords: sleep science, public safety, fatigue, decision-making, bias, mental health, shift work, wearable tech, sleep hygiene, on-duty napping Key  topics: Impact of sleep deprivation on brain function and decision-makingThe relationship between fatigue, bias, and implicit bias in policingPractical strategies for improving sleep hygiene and shift work managementThe role of wearable tech and biofeedback in sleep monitoringThe importance of on-duty napping and shift rotation policiesSound  bites: "Most of us in public safety are running on empty." "Sleep is the foundation of health and decision-making." "Value yourself enough to pursue better sleep and self-care." Chapters: 00:00 The Importance of Sleep in Public Safety04:45 Understanding Sleep Deprivation and Its Effects10:39 The Role of Wearable Tech in Sleep Monitoring12:08 Societal Attitudes Towards Sleep13:07 The Science of Sleep Deprivation in Critical Situations17:02 Shared Responsibility for Sleep Health20:25 Fatigue, Bias, and Decision Making30:15 Understanding Bias and Responsibility31:43 The Importance of Empathy in Training33:13 Navigating Shift Work in Emergency Services34:37 Individual Strategies for Managing Shift Work38:53 Sleep's Role in Mental Health39:39 Key Factors Affecting Sleep Quality43:37 The Case for On-Duty Napping47:26 Rewiring Beliefs About Human Performance Resources: Implicit Association Test (IAT)

  4. Feb 18

    Connecting With The Past: The Reflekta.ai Journey

    Summary: In this episode of Truly Mental, Joe Smarro engages in a deep conversation with Miles Spencer, a multi-exit entrepreneur and founder of Reflekta.ai, a platform that allows users to connect with the likeness of loved ones, both past and present. The discussion explores themes of success, failure, emotional well-being, the impact of AI, and the importance of storytelling and fatherhood. Miles shares his personal journey, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and how becoming a father has reshaped his understanding of success. The conversation culminates in an exploration of Reflekta's mission to preserve stories and memories for future generations. Connect with Miles:  Reflekta.ai Website Miles on LinkedIn Takeaways: Success is often accompanied by numerous failures.The emotional toll of entrepreneurship is significant.Fatherhood can redefine one's perspective on success.Transitions in life are a constant theme.AI is reshaping our society and business landscape.Storytelling is crucial for intergenerational connection.Reflekta.ai aims to preserve memories and stories.It's important to find joy in what you do.Emotional resilience is key in entrepreneurship.The journey of life is about continuous learning and adaptation.Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Miles Spencer and Reflekta.ai02:07 The Journey of Entrepreneurship: Successes and Failures04:58 The Emotional Toll of Success09:37 Navigating Transitions in Life and Career15:37 The Impact of AI on Society and Business19:25 Fatherhood and Redefining Success24:08 The Concept Behind Reflector29:11 Building a Legacy Through Storytelling33:53 Future Aspirations for Reflekta.ai Sound  Bites: "No one died, but let's work it back.""I wanted to be a dad.""Reflekta has decided to hang around."

  5. Jan 5

    The Cost of the Badge: A shooting, a Combat Cross, and the Mental Aftermath

    Summary: In this episode of Truly Mental, Joe Smarro interviews retired NYPD officer Steve Pedullo, who shares his journey from a working-class upbringing to a 16-year career in law enforcement. Steve discusses the challenges and realities of policing in New York City, including a life-altering shooting incident that led to his combat cross award. He opens up about the emotional aftermath of the incident, the importance of mental health, and his transition to a fulfilling career in private security. Throughout the conversation, Steve emphasizes the significance of kindness, personal growth, and the need for support in difficult times. Social: Instagram TikTok Takeaways: Steve Padulo shares his upbringing in a working-class family.He emphasizes the importance of family values instilled by his father.Steve discusses his journey to becoming a police officer in NYPD.He reflects on the challenges faced by officers in high-pressure environments.The shooting incident he experienced changed his perspective on life.Steve highlights the emotional impact of being involved in a shooting.He advocates for mental health awareness and seeking help.Steve found purpose in his new role in private security after retiring.He encourages kindness and understanding towards others.Steve believes that the storm of life cannot last forever.Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Steve Padulo's Journey02:49 Growing Up and Family Values06:13 Early Career and Joining NYPD08:50 The Reality of Policing in Brooklyn11:54 The Combat Cross Incident20:58 Aftermath and Reflection on the Shooting26:03 Navigating Injury and Recovery28:28 Confronting PTSD and Seeking Help30:48 Transitioning to Life After Law Enforcement32:44 The Challenges of Parenthood35:09 Finding Purpose in New Opportunities39:35 Reflections on Law Enforcement and Community45:10 Lessons in Kindness and UnderstandingKeywords: NYPD, police officer, mental health, shooting incident, private security, family values, leadership, emotional impact, personal growth, kindness

  6. 12/18/2025

    Sandeep Acharya: Bridging Gaps in Mental Health Access

    Summary: In this episode of Truly Mental, host Joe Smarro speaks with Sandeep Acharya, CEO and founder of Octave, a behavioral health company focused on improving access to quality mental health care. Sandeep shares his personal journey into the mental health field, the challenges faced in the current system, and how Octave is leveraging technology to enhance therapy matching and outcomes. The conversation covers the importance of addressing mental health issues, the role of insurance, and the future vision for Octave as a catalyst for change in the healthcare system. Website: https://www.findoctave.com/ LinkedIn: Sandeep Profile Takeaways: Sandeep Acharya founded Octave to improve access to quality mental health care.Octave operates both in-person and virtually, focusing on evidence-based practices.The company aims to provide affordable therapy, with many clients paying only $30 per session.Sandeep's personal experiences with therapy and friends' struggles motivated him to enter the mental health field.Octave's matching technology helps connect clients with the right therapists based on their needs.The mental health system struggles with high dropout rates, with many clients quitting after the first session.Octave's focus on outcomes has resulted in a lower dropout rate compared to industry averages.Insurance companies often impose session limits that can hinder effective treatment.Sandeep emphasizes the importance of quality care and the need for better organizational structures in mental health.The future vision for Octave includes creating a universal scheduling system for mental health care.Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Octave and Sandeep Acharya01:01 The Mission Behind Octave03:18 Sandeep's Personal Journey to Mental Health07:20 The Role of Technology in Mental Health10:22 Matching Patients with Therapists14:31 The Integration of AI in Mental Health Care17:23 Identifying Systemic Issues in Mental Health21:59 Balancing Patient Care and Business Outcomes23:54 The Ethics of Therapy Duration28:14 Navigating Insurance Challenges29:05 Scaling Clinical Standards32:38 State Boundaries and Licensing Issues33:55 A Vision for Universal Care35:45 Future Aspirations for Octave38:01 The Meaning Behind 'Octave'39:20 A Message of Love and Support

  7. 10/16/2025

    Your Brain Is Talking—Here’s How to Listen

    Summary: In this conversation, Joe Smarro speaks with Angelika and Mitch Sadar, experts in neurofeedback and mental wellness. They discuss the transformative power of neurofeedback in optimizing mental health, performance, and resilience. The discussion covers the spectrum of clients they serve, from trauma survivors to elite athletes, and emphasizes the importance of understanding the brain's electrical activity. They explore practical techniques for regulating stress and anxiety, the significance of heart rate variability, and the barriers to awareness in mental wellness. The conversation concludes with insights on maximizing the human experience and restoring basic bio rhythms for better health. Website LinkedIn Takeaways: Neurofeedback can help individuals optimize their mental wellness and performance.The brain's electrical activity can be evaluated to identify patterns related to mental health issues.Everyone, regardless of their background, wants to perform better in life.Neuroplasticity allows the brain to change and adapt throughout life.Biofeedback techniques, such as heart rate variability training, can help regulate stress and anxiety.Heart rate variability is a key indicator of physiological health and can be improved through specific breathing techniques.Many people are unaware of neurofeedback and biofeedback due to a lack of education in traditional medical settings.Trauma can significantly impact brain function, but neurofeedback can aid in recovery.Athletes use neurofeedback to enhance focus, resilience, and overall performance.Maximizing the human experience involves proactive and personalized approaches to mental wellness.Chapters: 00:00 Unlocking the Mind's Potential02:55 Understanding Neurofeedback05:57 The Spectrum of Mental Wellness08:29 Neuroplasticity and Resilience11:43 Biofeedback Techniques for First Responders14:20 Heart Rate Variability Explained17:19 The Benefits of HRV Training19:54 Barriers to Awareness in Mental Wellness23:13 Healing Trauma with Neurofeedback26:04 Athletes and Peak Performance28:48 Maximizing the Human Experience31:36 Future of Mental Wellness34:49 Final Thoughts and Resources

  8. 09/15/2025

    From the Marines to the Boardroom: Tony Crescenzo on Leadership, Tech, and Mental Resilience

    Summary: In this episode of Truly Mental, Joe Smarro interviews Tony Crescenzo, the president and CEO of Intelligent Waves. They discuss leadership under pressure, the mental toll of high-stakes work, and how to build resilient teams. Tony shares his journey from the Marine Corps to leading a tech company focused on supporting veterans and addressing PTSD through innovative technologies. The conversation highlights the importance of mental health solutions, the role of technology in enhancing performance, and the challenges veterans face during their transition to civilian life. Text: peaktrial to 201.908.2820 for free demo Website: https://peakneuro.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonycrescenzo/ https://www.warriorsethos.org/ https://intelligentwaves.com/ Takeaways: Tony Crescenzo emphasizes the importance of leadership that lasts.Intelligent Waves is a veteran-led company focused on mission performance.The company has evolved from counter-IED efforts to advanced communication technologies.PTSD is a significant issue for veterans, and innovative solutions are needed.Peak Neuro offers a non-drug approach to treating PTSD and enhancing mental health.The technology uses neuroacoustic entrainment to improve mental states.Leadership lessons from the military can be applied in various sectors.Transitioning from military to civilian life poses unique challenges for veterans.Support systems for veterans are crucial for their mental health and well-being.The truth is subjective and resonates differently for each individual.Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Resilience07:16 The Journey of Tony Crescenzo15:25 Understanding PTSD and Its Impact18:23 Innovative Approaches to PTSD Prevention20:08 Neuroacoustic Technology for Mental Health24:46 Enhancing Performance and Recovery26:15 The Science of Sleep and Brain Restoration28:07 Neurofeedback and Trauma Recovery29:29 AI and the Future of Learning32:39 Leadership Lessons from the Military35:46 Balancing Work and Mental Health39:26 Veteran Support and Community Healing43:13 Redefining Truth and Personal Growth

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5
out of 5
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About

This podcast has been created by Joe Smarro & Jesse Trevino and it is being provided by SolutionPoint+, a national training and consulting firm that specializes in cultivating mental wellness to maximize human capital and promote safety. They are two combat veteran marines, who have been on a shared journey as best friends for the last 20+ years. Joe and Jesse were both San Antonio Police officers for 15 and 10 years, respectively, and have started a training and consulting firm which is now their full-time endeavor. They have set out on a mission to change the culture of law enforcement in America by focusing on individual wellness. They hope to eradicate first responder suicide. Welcome to the podcast, please subscribe, share, and leave comments for them both. BeWell -

Information

  • Creator
    Joe & Jesse
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Truly Mental
  • Show Website
    Truly Mental

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