Living with Depression, Leading Through Crisis

Depression does not always look the way people expect. Author and former Minnesota elections director David Maeda shares how he kept showing up for one of the most high-pressure jobs in state government while quietly living with depression, and why telling the truth about both became the key to his healing.If you have ever wondered how someone can lead through crisis, protect their mental health, and still hold onto authenticity, this conversation goes straight to the heart of it. David opens up about the 11-year journey of writing his memoir, the pressure of running elections during COVID in a deeply polarized year, and the private habits that helped him survive the darkest stretches of his life.You'll discover:- Why David originally planned to write only about elections, and why the book became something much more personal- How journaling helped him recognize patterns in his depression and make sense of his inner life- What it was like to lead Minnesota's election system during 2020 while working remotely and feeling isolated- Why he believes elections are far more secure and professionally run than most people realize- The role music, cats, friendship, and gratitude play in helping him stay grounded- Why antidepressants and one-size-fits-all treatment approaches have not worked for him, and what he thinks mental health care gets wrongDavid also shares a powerful case for vulnerability, explaining why he chose to write honestly about parts of his life most people keep hidden. His message is especially important if you are carrying depression quietly, feel alone in your struggle, or need a reminder that healing often starts with finding one person, one outlet, or one moment of connection that lets you be fully yourself.Essential listening if you care about mental health, resilience, public service, or the power of telling the truth about your life before someone else writes the story for you.Guest:David Maeda is an author and former director of elections for the Minnesota Secretary of State, known for his public service work and his deeply personal memoir about leadership, depression, and resilience.Connect with him via his website https://cheaporecord.blogspot.com/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-maeda-2850501 as well as instagram https://www.instagram.com/mrmaximoto/