4:12 Connections

In this episode, Heather Croas sits down with Astrid Ross, Georgia Senate candidate, certified peer specialist, and founder of the Mental Health Support Network. Astrid opens up about her experiences as a suicide loss survivor, a mother of five, and a longtime mental health advocate, sharing how trauma, anxiety, and depression have shaped her work.Astrid’s nonprofit provides free mental health resources, community education, and advocacy, aiming to normalize conversations about behavioral health and create safe spaces where people can seek support without stigma. She discusses practical ways to support mental wellness, break cycles of trauma, and build compassionate communities that prioritize connection and prevention.This conversation goes beyond inspirational talk, diving into the realities of behavioral health, the importance of peer support, and why safe spaces can literally save lives. Tune in to hear honest, real-world insights on mental health awareness, advocacy, and the everyday work of building networks that make a difference.Whether you’re a caregiver, advocate, or simply interested in mental wellness, this episode offers perspective, practical guidance, and a candid look at what it takes to support yourself and others through life’s hardest moments.🔗 Learn more about Astrid For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.⁠Contact Us⁠.  

In this episode, we sit down with community mentor and advocate Akella Clore to talk about foster care, creativity, connection, and what it really looks like to support others while carrying your own challenges.Akella shares her journey as a mother of nine, a former foster parent, and the founder of Colorful Creations, a program built around confidence, art, and youth empowerment. We explore her passion for working with teens, the emotional realities of caregiving, and the quiet strength behind the smile she’s known for.The conversation opens up into emotional masking, burnout, the importance of healthy boundaries, and why community plays such a vital role in recovery. Akella also reflects on the experiences that shaped her, the kids who changed her life, and how creativity helps young people find their voice.This is a warm and honest discussion about resilience, belonging, and the power of showing up for one another through both the easy and the messy parts of life. It’s a reminder that healing grows stronger in community.🔗 Learn more about Akella or your contact via emailFor more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.⁠Contact Us⁠.  

In this episode, we talk with professional networker Sara Branch about connection, community, and why networking is far more than business cards and elevator pitches.Sara shares her transition from corporate life to building a networking franchise and developing her own curriculum to help business owners connect with clarity and confidence. We explore social awkwardness, storytelling, mindset shifts, and why structure can create freedom for both introverts and extroverts.The conversation moves beyond business into belonging, examining how face-to-face interaction builds trust, why community matters for mental health, and how learning to relate to others is truly a life skill.This is an honest discussion about reframing networking from transaction to relationship and rediscovering the power of authentic connection.🔗 Learn more about Sara and Branch Consulting Group or connect with her on LinkedINFor more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.⁠Contact Us⁠.  

In this episode, we talk with mindset coach Andy Robinson, founder of LFG Mindset Consulting, about identity, trauma, and what it really means to choose your next chapter.Andy shares his path from serving in the United States Marine Corps to surviving a life-changing injury during Operation Iraqi Freedom and rebuilding his life with intention. His experience led him to a simple but powerful realization. When we do not have a clear vision for the future, it is easy to get stuck in circumstance instead of shaping what comes next.We explore how early beliefs influence our mindset, why identity struggles are so common, and how people can begin to rewrite the patterns that hold them back. The conversation touches on neurodivergence, communication, and the importance of support systems in healing and growth.This is an honest and grounded discussion about resilience, self-definition, and learning to see possibility after loss. If you are navigating change or questioning who you are becoming, this episode offers practical insight and an encouraging reminder that you have a say in what comes next.🔗 Learn more about Andy and LFG Mindset Consulting

In this episode, we sit down with newly published author and retired court professional Tracie Ingram for a wide-ranging conversation about faith, identity, mindset, and the power of encouragement.After 30 years in the criminal justice system and service in the United States Army, Tracie reflects on what she learned working in high-emotion environments and how those experiences shaped her perspective on compassion, bias, and the importance of seeing people as more than labels. We revisit lessons from Toastmasters International, explore how communication and perception influence our relationships, and discuss the balance between struggle and hope in everyday life.Tracie also shares the inspiration behind her children’s book The Can-Do Girl—a story born from her desire to plant seeds of encouragement in the next generation. She was also certified last year as a fitness instructor and gospel teacher through Revelation Wellness, which allows her to continue her mission to uplift others and remind people of their inherent worth and potential.This episode is an honest, thoughtful conversation about reframing perspective, navigating hardship, and choosing to live with purpose. Whether you’re facing personal challenges or simply need a reminder that growth is possible, Tracie’s message is clear: encouragement can change lives, and it’s never too late to become a can-do person.🔗 Learn more about Tracie and grab a copy of the “Can-Do Girl” hereFor more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.⁠Contact Us⁠.  

In this episode of 4:12 Connections, Heather is joined by attorney and empath Shannan Collier Stalvey, Esq. for a thoughtful conversation about communication, emotional regulation, and the assumptions that shape how we see others and ourselves.The episode explores how emotions show up in everyday interactions, why behavior is often a form of communication, and how conscious and unconscious bias can influence understanding. Together, they discuss the balance between empathy, boundaries, and accountability, and why reframing perspective is essential for meaningful connection.Heather also shares the inspiration behind Reframing Your Perspective, an improv-based exercise designed to challenge assumptions and remind us that people are variables, not formulas. This episode invites listeners to pause, reflect, and approach relationships with greater clarity, compassion, and curiosity.

In this episode, Chase Sanger shares his mission to advocate for veteran mental health after his own experience with traumatic brain injury and medical retirement from the Army. Hear how the SHARE Military Initiative at Shepherd Center gave him the tools to heal and how he now works to raise awareness and support for veterans facing invisible wounds. This conversation is a reminder that asking for help is a sign of strength and that recovery is possible.Resources & Support for Veterans:SHARE Military Initiative at Shepherd Center – A specialized program for veterans and service members dealing with traumatic brain injuries, PTSD, and related challenges. Learn more or start the intake process: shepherd.org/treatment/services-clinics/shareConnect with Chase Sanger – Follow Chase’s work, advocacy, and community initiatives: linktr.ee/chasesangerVeteran Crisis Line – If you or someone you know is in crisis, dial 988 and press 1, or visit veteranscrisisline.netFor more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.⁠Contact Us⁠.  

In this episode, Heather and Josh dive deep into the many forms of communication; from body language and bilingual love stories to marketing and emotional expression through art. Josh shares his experience living in Honduras, surviving a medical crisis, and building a business rooted in meaningful connection. A thoughtful exploration of how we speak, listen, and understand each other.🔗 Learn more about http://Awedynamic.comFor more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.Contact Us.  

Welcome to Season 6 of 4:12 Connections! In this powerful kickoff episode, Heather Croas and co-host Larry sit down with Brent Rittersdorf , local real estate agent, keynote speaker, and leader of Cobb County’s most dynamic networking group. Brent shares his journey from hospitality to real estate, the evolution of his keynote speech Ten for Ten, and the inspiration behind his new book The Point Is in the Purpose. Together, they explore the deeper meaning of purpose, how it shifts over time, and why true leadership is rooted in service and encouragement. Whether you're building a business, navigating life transitions, or seeking clarity in your own journey, this episode offers heartfelt insights and practical wisdom to help you connect with your purpose.🔗 Learn more about Brent and his book at http://www.10for10.netFor more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.Contact Us.  

In the Season 5 finale of 4:12 Connections, Heather and Larry reflect on a year of transformation, storytelling, and learning to navigate life’s challenges. From masking and burnout to finding purpose and building community, this candid conversation explores what it means to grow, stretch, and stay anchored… even when things get messy. A powerful wrap-up to a season rooted in real talk and resilience.📩 For more information about The Green Phoenix or to be a guest on a future episode, contact Heather Croas at: [email protected]

In Part 2 of our annual Mental Health and the Media series, Heather Croas welcomes Jennifer and Micah Grawey to explore how television portrays mental health. From animated standouts like Bluey and Adventure Time to true crime and dramas, they unpack what TV gets right, where it goes wrong, and why representation matters.📩 For more information about The Green Phoenix or to be a guest on a future episode, contact Heather Croas at: [email protected]

In Part 1 of our annual Mental Health and the Media series, Heather Croas is joined by Jennifer and Micah Grawey to explore how mental health has been portrayed in film—from horror tropes and outdated stereotypes to recent strides in representation and empathy. This episode dives into decades of cinema, highlighting the cultural impact of movies like Silver Linings Playbook, Beautiful Boy, I Saw the TV Glow, and more.

In this deeply moving episode, the Fighting the Darkness Panel Discussion on Suicide Prevention—presented by 22one Realty Co. and Crawford Street Designs—brings together a courageous group of voices to share their lived experiences and professional insights. Moderator Larry Grawey is joined by Morgan Pickering (First Responder), Jessica Alexander (Therapist), Jennifer Greenberg (Suicide Loss Survivor), Jennifer Grawey (Pastor), and Heather Croas (Suicide Attempt Survivor). Together, they explore the emotional toll of mental illness, the complexity of suicidal ideation, and the healing power of connection. This episode is a testament to resilience, empathy, and the importance of speaking the unspeakable.📩 For more information about The Green Phoenix or to be a guest on a future episode, contact Heather Croas at: [email protected]

In this deeply moving episode, Heather and Larry sit down with Dave Griffith to explore the quiet strength behind a life shaped by caregiving, loss, and unwavering faith. From growing up as a military kid to navigating decades of marriage through mental illness and chronic health challenges, Dave shares his story with raw honesty and grace. Together, they unpack the emotional toll of long-term suffering, the struggle with resentment, and the power of surrender.This episode is a testament to enduring love, the resilience of the human spirit, and the kind of faith that holds steady through life’s unseen battles.📩 For more information about The Green Phoenix or to be a guest on a future episode, contact Heather Croas at: [email protected]

In this heartfelt and candid conversation, Heather sits down with Haley—her youngest guest yet—for a deep dive into the generational shifts that shape how we experience life, technology, mental health, and belonging. From favorite films and ukuleles to the impact of COVID, bullying, and social media, they explore what it means to grow up in different eras and how those experiences influence identity and resilience. With reflections on introversion, depression, and the importance of genuine connection, this episode offers a warm, thoughtful look at how we navigate change and learn to accept ourselves.📩 For more information about The Green Phoenix or to be a guest on a future episode, contact Heather Croas at: [email protected]

In this episode of 4:12 Connections, physical therapist and athletic trainer Scott C. McInturff, PT, DPT, ATC joins the conversation to explore the deeper layers of healing—beyond just muscles and movement. With over two decades of experience, Scott shares how his approach to recovery blends science, empathy, and a deep respect for the mind-body connection.Together, we talk about:Why “creative walking” is more than just a limpThe emotional and psychological layers of physical painRethinking the 0–10 pain scaleFunctional goals vs. time-based recoveryHow trauma, beliefs, and past experiences shape healingThe need for more mental health awareness in physical therapyWhether you're a patient, a provider, or someone navigating your own recovery, this episode offers insight, encouragement, and a few laughs along the way.📩 For more information about The Green Phoenix or to be a guest on a future episode, contact Heather Croas at: [email protected]

Join us on 4:12 Connections for a heartfelt and humorous conversation with author and mental health advocate LJ Daniel. In this episode, Bree shares her journey as a writer, wife, and caregiver navigating life with neurodivergent loved ones. Together, we explore the challenges of masking, the emotional toll of caregiving, and how storytelling—both fictional and autobiographical—can be a powerful tool for healing and connection.Bree also introduces her debut novel, 𝑰’𝒎 𝑭𝒊𝒏𝒆. 𝑺𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝑴𝒆., Book One in The Spiral Duet, a romance that blends mental health representation, open communication, and a unique love story that defies convention.📚 Find the book:Amazon eBookBarnes & NobleSigned CopiesAdd on Goodreads📩 Connect with LJ Daniel: ljdanielwrites.com | Instagram For more information about The Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode, please don’t hesitate to shoot me an email.📩 Contact Us: Heather Croas – [email protected]

Join us on 4:12 Connections for an engaging conversation with Pastor Brandon Nichols of Mercy Hill Church. In this episode, Brandon shares his personal journey in ministry, discussing the evolving role of the church in supporting mental health and the strength found in community partnerships within Kennesaw. Learn about the importance of empathy, listening, and practical care in addressing sensitive topics. For more information or to connect with Brandon, you can reach him at [email protected] more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.Contact Us.  

In this episode of 4:12 Connections, we delve into a conversation with Emily Spellman, who offers a unique perspective on community and connection in Adairsville, GA. Emily's work at Living Way Academy and her involvement with Adairsville Coffee Co. highlight the ways in which strong relationships and a sense of belonging can contribute to mental health and resilience. Tune in to hear Emily's thoughts on the power of connection and its impact on overall well-being.For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.Contact Us.  

Join us on 4:12 Connections for an authentic conversation with Kennedy as she shares her journey of faith and the unexpected connections sparked by a shared love for coffee. Hear Kennedy's personal insights on finding her place and the meaningful experiences gained through serving in her church and her past role as a barista. Kennedy offers a down-to-earth perspective on navigating life and simply doing her best, reminding us of the power of everyday connections.

Step into the heart of connection and expression with the audio from our 4th Annual Words Are Hard Event, recorded live on May 17, 2025. Focused on "Art as a Means of Expression and Self-Care: Sharing Stories of Mental Health", this episode brings you the raw honesty and vibrant spirit of the day. Hear incredible moments from our open mic, where participants bravely shared their lived experiences through creative expression. Immerse yourself in the discussions from our expert Q&A panel, as they explore the profound impact of mental health and the transformative power of art through the lens of 'ID Stolen,' 'Fighting the Darkness,' and 'Spark of Hope'. This is more than just an event; it's a testament to how art helps us connect, heal, and share our stories.For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.Contact Us.  

We welcome Morgan Pickering, a trauma specialist and certified peer counselor, to discuss the critical need for trauma-informed care within the public service system. Morgan shares her unique perspective as a first responder with lived experience, highlighting the importance of crisis intervention, harm reduction, and efforts to decriminalize mental health challenges.Morgan Pickering, a Gainesville/Hall County native, graduated from Lanier Technical College's EMS program in 2012. Starting her EMS career in Hall County in 2015, she transitioned to the mental health field in 2019 and in 2023, joined NAMI Hall County and its Steering Committee. Now living in Pickens County with her family, Morgan retired from ambulance service in August 2021 to focus on EMS education. She currently serves as a National Level LEO/EMS/Fire Educator and a Trauma Informed Mental Health Specialist. Equipped with seemingly countless certifications, she specializes in trauma studies, crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and harm reduction. Morgan established her own counseling office in 2023, collaborating with her husband, a Christian Counselor. Committed to improving crisis response and understanding trauma in mental health crises, she works with various organizations and volunteers with law enforcement and mental health support groups. In late 2024, Morgan founded a Crisis Intervention enhancement course, Trauma Informed Care for Crisis Intervention (TIC4CIT), to equip first responders with in-depth knowledge of trauma /PTSD for de escalation practices and rapport improvements as well as tangible resources to utilize and equip the public that is served. In addition to Peer Counseling and Christian Counseling, Pickering Support Services, LLC offers an array of training options for the general public and first responder agencies, including, but not limited to, Trauma Informed Care for Crisis Intervention (TIC4CIT), Mental Health First Aid for Adults and Fire/EMS, Basic Life Support/CPR/First Aid, Community Resilience Model (CRM), as well as free trainings offered in collaboration with NAMI Georgia including, but not limited to; Crisis Intervention Training - Youth, Ending The Silence, In Our Own Voice, Share Your Story w/ Law Enforcement (SYSLE), NAMI Frontline Wellness Stronger Together Workshop for Fire Couples, and 1 on 1 Peer Support Leadership training. For questions or to schedule an appointment or training you may contact: Morgan Pickering [email protected]@[email protected] more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.Contact Us.  

We're hanging out with Tanyel Aviles again, and this time, we're diving deep into the heart of Kennesaw! Get ready for an energetic conversation about her work, the city's unique community spirit, and the importance of fostering connections. Join us for a fun and insightful discussion.For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.Contact Us.  

Join us as we talk with poet Deanne Repose Oaks for a chat about turning pain into poetry, finding your voice through art, and why it's totally okay to be your weird self. We're talking adoption, dyslexia, and how creativity can help you navigate life's messy moments. Get ready for some honest talk about mental health, social struggles, and the power of finding your own unique way to express yourself.If you’d like to connect with Deanna Repose Oaks, including where to find her books, please be sure to check our her Linktree.For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.Contact Us.  

We all communicate differently, but do we truly understand how those differences impact our interactions and even our mental well-being? Join us for a conversation with Tanyel Aviles, Business Recruitment and Retention Manager for the City of Kennesaw, as we explore the fascinating world of diverse communication styles. We'll discuss how these variations can lead to misunderstandings, and how recognizing them can foster healthier connections and improve mental clarity. We'll have a relaxed conversation that is useful for everyone.For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.Contact Us.  

Let's talk about the importance of having "your people." This week, we're joined by Tina Spellman for a candid conversation about how community impacts our mental well-being. We'll discuss everything from finding your tribe to building stronger relationships. Join us for a relatable and inspiring episode! For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.Contact Us.  

Join us on 4:12 Connections as we welcome special guest Jamese Beauford, the Women’s Business Center Director at Greater Wealth Works. In this powerful episode, we delve into the critical topics of mental health, the importance of community, and the rise of suicide rates in the post-COVID world.  Jamese shares her insights and expertise, offering valuable perspectives on the challenges we face and the resources available to support individuals and families. We discuss the lingering effects of the pandemic, the impact on mental well-being, and the vital role community plays in fostering resilience and connection.  This conversation is essential listening for anyone seeking to understand and address these pressing issues. Tune in for an open and honest dialogue about mental health, hope, and healing.For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.Contact Us.  

Did you know your mental health can significantly impact your physical wellbeing? On 4:12 Connections, we explore this vital connection with chiropractor Dr. Aaron Young. He shares his insights on how mental and physical health are intertwined and offers practical advice for achieving balance. Tune in for a conversation that could change the way you think about health!  For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.Contact Us.  

Welcome back to Season 5 of 4:12 Connections.  It’s been quite an interesting adventure getting here and once again we are making a few changes to the format of the podcast for this season to better align with our overall goal, which is simply to make talking about mental health a less taboo subject.In today’s episode we start off the conversation with a brief history and overview of that last 4 seasons and give a quick preview of what lies ahead as we move forward into Season 5.  And I couldn’t think of a better way to start us off this new format than by learning a little more about my co-host Pastor Larry Grawey.  Excited to see where this season takes us as we continue to invite both new and old guests so they can share their own stories as we explore how we are all connected and talk openly and honestly about our mental health.For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.Contact Us.  

 In our final episode of Season 4, Pastor Larry and I continue our conversation about self-care and other strategies to survive the additional stress the holiday season often brings. Especially for those who have a strained relationship with their family or perhaps aren't able to get home to spend time with their loved ones.  For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode please don't hesitate to shoot me an email. Contact Us.

We are joined again by our 2 special guests, Jennifer Grawey and one of the film bros from the “Recently Logged” podcast Micah Grawey as we continue our conversation on the way media portrays mental illness in television and movies, both the good and the bad. Especially the way it often helps to perpetuate stigma associated with mental health and mental illness. In our last episode we started the conversation primarily focusing on television.  Today we are continuing the conversation as we switch our focus over to movies and explore the changes that have occurred, especially within the last few years in the post-COVID world. If you have questions, would like more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email. ⁠Contact Us⁠.  

One of the most common troupes in horror movies and tv show is that the villain and/or serial killer is living with a mental illness. The problem is that this helps to perpetuate stigma associated with mental health and mental illness. This month we have a 2 special guests joining us, Jennifer Grawey and one of the film bros from the “Recently Logged” podcast Micah Grawey. Together we explore the way media portrays mental illness in television and movies, both the good and the bad.If you have questions, would like more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.⁠Contact Us⁠.  

We are joined by local poet, Deanna Repose Oaks who I had the pleasure of a meeting at a local Open Mic night about a month ago.  She currently she has 5 published books that are available for purchase, including her latest one Don’t Go ; Stay which she is selling as part of fundraiser for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline!.  Join us as Deanna shares a little about her own story and we discuss how we have both found our voice through art, and the healing process that comes along with that. And for more information about Deanna Repose Oaks, including where to find her books, please be sure to check our her Linktree for more information. And as always, if you have questions, would like more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email. ⁠Contact Us⁠.  

This is the recorded audio from our 4th Annual Fighting the Darkness Panel Discussion.  It is far past time we started talking about mental health and suicide in open and honest discussions without the fear and stigma attached. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the US affecting people of all ages.  It is currently the second leading cause of death for ages 25-34 and the third leading cause for ages 15-24.  In an effort to create more awareness and fight the stigma associated with suicide the entire month of September is Suicide Prevention Month.  It is our goal to raise awareness about suicide prevention and the path to recovery with Fighting the Darkness - an art exhibition and panel discussion event in our community.   I want to give a huge shout of thanks to everyone who helped make this event a success, especially those who joined me on this year’s panel: Larry Grawey who served as moderator.  Morgan Pickering who provided the perspective of both a first responder as well as suicide attempt survivor. April Bailye who was able to share her experiences as a therapist/crisis counselor. Tina Spellman, who in not only a former guest on this podcast but also provided the perspective for the church as both a pastor) and principle at a school local private Christian school.  Vicki Damico who shared her experiences as a suicide loss survivor and I was provided my own perspective by sharing my experiences as a suicide attempt survivor.  Also want to be sure to thank the ever amazing Robert Grawey for his quick turn around on the audio so I could get the podcast episode out the next day (which is our usually scheduled episode). If you have questions, would like more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email. ⁠Contact Us⁠.  

Joining us today is Stephaine Marshall, LPC as we continue the conversation we started in the previous episode about the impact of technology on our mental health.  Not only the negative aspects but also how it can be used to improve access of care to those who may not otherwise be able to seek professional help.  Especially in our post-COVID world. If you have questions, would like more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email. ⁠Contact Us⁠.  

We often hear about the dangers of technology, especially for our youth, and the importance of limiting screen time.  Today Pastor Larry & I look at the progression of technology and examine the impact it has had on our personal lives and mental health. If you have questions, would like more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email. ⁠Contact Us⁠.  

Today we are joined by Tina Spellman, the principle at the Living Way Christian Academy, and we continue the conversation about the importance of mental health in the school system. If you have questions, would like more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email. ⁠Contact Us⁠.  

Traditionally, mental health has not been a priority - especially for kids. Thankfully, that is beginning to change and with each generation, and it’s starting to become more of the priority it should be. Today Pastor Larry and I talk about our experiences - especially our school experiences - in regard to bullying and how things have changed over the past 30 odd years. If you have questions, would like more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email. ⁠Contact Us⁠.  

Today we get to have a candid conversation about the stigma associated with mental health in the minority cultures and ways we can all work together to try to push past it. If you have questions, would like more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email. ⁠Contact Us⁠.  

Today Pastor Larry and I discuss the similarities be racism and ableism and how both impact the stigma associated with mental health, especially in the minority communities.   If you have questions, would like more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email. ⁠Contact Us⁠.  

Words Are Hard was originally published as photo essay in January 2021, for people who deal with mental health challenges as well as their families. It was designed to help them overcome the daily stigmas regarding mental illnesses. Using pictures to illustrate my own personal journey the goal is to communicate thoughts that words are just too limited to explain. In May 2022, we started an annual event based on the photo essay as a way to create a discussion centered around increasing the understanding of mental health recovery, showing the differences between mental health vs. mental illness and helping others understand how to better support those who are struggling. This was our 3rd year doing the event and the goal of  was to bring the much needed awareness to the blindness of society regarding the stigma that people living with mental illness face on a daily basis. At the same time, offering suggestions of an approach that identifies people as people and not their diagnosis. The event was recorded live, the video of which will be available on YouTube in the coming weeks, and this is the audio of the discussion we had.  Unfortunately we forgot to take the handheld microphone out into the audience so some of the sound quality may be a little rough in spots but we still wanted to provide those who were not able to make it the opportunity to be a part of the discussion.   If you have questions, would like more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email. ⁠Contact Us⁠.  

May is Mental Health Awareness month and this will be our 3rd year presenting the Words Are Hard roundtable discussion on mental health on May 13. In this episode Pastor Larry and I discuss the upcoming event and what we hope to accomplish with it. For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email. Contact Us.  

Back in March, I had the opportunity to speak as part of a panel on living with a disability at the Together: Ignite Conference.  Afterwards, I had several people wanted to speak with me, which is still a bit of a shock to be honest.  But one of those people is our special guest to Amanda Burgos, the mom of a million kids.  Sadly, Pastor Larry was out of town when we recorded this episode but Amanda & I had an amazing conversation about some of the challenges associated with mental health and parenting, including the parenting foster children. For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email. Contact Us. 

Over the years we have learned to talk more openly about mental health.  Today Paster Larry & I explore the importance of teaching kids mental health as a parent, or other adult role model. For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email. Contact Us. 

Episode 5: Exploring Boundaries Today we have the pleasure of sitting down with “Podcast Pete” Kane, host of the Kennesaw Happenings Podcast we were started our conversation about the importance of boundaries and effective communication and then finished it here.   For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email. Contact Us. 

Communication can be difficult at times.  Especially for those who have a hard time reading body language and picking up on various social cues.  Today Pastor Larry and I talk about some of the challenges that can occur when trying to communicate with others, especially when people function in the “ever always listening” mode which sometimes causes well-meaning people to provide irrelevant support to others who may or may not be in crisis.   For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email. Contact Us.  

Today we are joined by a very special guest, Kathy Lathem from Cobb Senior Services.  In this episode we talk about the importance of community and the services available for the “Senior” population in Cobb County, Georgia while also working to debunk some of the myths and stigma surrounding aging and the senior community in general. If you would like to get more information about the services provided by Cobb Senior Services you can contact: Kathy Lathem For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email. Contact Us.  

According to Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA), the 4 major dimensions of recovery are health, home, purpose and community.  In today’s episode Pastor Larry and I focus on the importance community and finding a sense of purpose and how the impact our mental health.  For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email. Contact Us.  

We all experience obstacles and challenges in life and sometimes those come with a setbacks that can detail our progress.  In this episode we talk about the importance of managing expectations of ourselves and others and how it impacts our mental health. For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email. Contact Us.  

 In our final episode of Season 3, Pastor Larry and I continue our conversation about self-care and other strategies to survive the additional stress the holiday season often brings. Especially for those who have a strained relationship with their family or perhaps aren't able to get home to spend time with their loved ones.  For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode please don't hesitate to shoot me an email. Contact Us.