260: Myths, Groups & Outdoor Mental Health: Brant Evans on Ancient Wisdom in Modern Therapy

What can ancient myths teach us about group dynamics, leadership, and mental health? In this episode Will sits down with Brant Evans (pen name Brant Elwood), co-author of Gods, Heroes, and Groups, to explore how timeless stories offer powerful insights into modern therapy and leadership. Drawing from his experiences as a wilderness therapy field guide, an executive director in recovery programs, and now a therapeutic consultant at Stucker, Smith, and Weatherly, Brant shares how archetypal narratives help us understand the unconscious forces shaping group behavior. Will and Brant discuss the evolving landscape of wilderness therapy, the impact of social media on mental health treatment, and how lessons from mythology can guide therapists, leaders, and individuals in navigating complex interpersonal dynamics. Whether you're a clinician, a leader, or simply interested in the intersection of psychology and storytelling, this episode provides a fascinating look at how ancient wisdom remains deeply relevant today. Brant's book, God's, Heroes, and Groups is available on Amazon. Our podcast underwriter is White Mountain Adventure Institute-(WMAI.org)