Fishing the Good Fight: Using Fly Fishing to Challenge the Stigma of Men's Mental Health

In this episode, William Henry interviews Tom Cramer, Director of Operations for Fishing the Good Fight, about the transformative power of fly fishing and community in supporting men's mental health. They explore the origins, structure, and impact of retreats that combine nature, therapy, and peer support to foster healing and connection.Guest Information Guest Name: Tom CramerBio: From a life-changing start at YMCA Camp Minikani in Milwaukee, WI, Tom has dedicated his career to creating transformative experiences. His path has included serving as an AmeriCorps member at Playworks-Wisconsin and leadership roles at YMCA Camp Minikani and Northwest Catholic School. Driven by a passion for equity, he co-founded and led Project Kindred for seven years, fostering community and leadership among diverse youth. Now, as Director of Operations at Fishing the Good Fight, Tom applies his firsthand knowledge of experiential learning and community to expand the program’s impact on men’s well-being.Links:Website: fishingthegoodfight.orgInstagram: @fishingthegoodfightFacebook: Fishing The Good FightKey TopicsOrigins of Fishing the Good FightThe three-pronged approach: fly fishing, community, and therapyBarriers and stigma faced by men in seeking mental health supportThe impact of community and vulnerability in healingThe structure and experience of retreatsPsychological benefits of fly fishing and natureMaintaining community beyond retreatsHow retreats foster safety and vulnerabilityVolunteer and participant experiences and storiesHost & Show InfoHost Name: William Henry, LCSWAbout the Host: William Henry is a licensed clinical social worker and certified nature informed therapist. After graduating from New York University, he spent seven dedicated years in a day treatment center and school where he worked closely with students and families facing significant mental health challenges. Certified in Nature Informed Therapy in 2022, he believes that rebuilding our connection with nature can provide some much needed relief from the struggles that many of us are facing. Will spends his free time fly fishing, camping and hiking. Find more resources and information through his practice, Riverstone Mental Health Collective, based in Mount Kisco, NY.Website: riverstonementalhealth.comRate & Review on Apple Podcasts – This is the most impactful way to support the show. The Nature of Mental HealthFollow us on social media:Instagram: @riverstonementalhealthFacebook: Riverstone Mental HealthLinkedIn: William Henry, LCSWYouTube: @TheNatureofMentalHealthShare this episode with a friend! If you enjoyed it, tag us on social media and let us know your favorite takeaway in the comments. We would love to hear from you!⚠️ Important Disclaimer: The Nature of Mental Health is not therapy or a replacement for therapy. The information presented here is provided for psychoeducational purposes. As always, when you have questions about your own well-being, please consult your mental health and/or medical care professional. If you’re in crisis, thinking about harming yourself, or don’t feel safe, call 911, or contact your local emergency number or crisis hotline immediately.