Five Building Blocks of Recovery®

When you’re exhausted, scared, or stuck in that loop of “nothing is getting better,” resilience isn’t a personality trait, it’s a set of choices you can practice. In this episode, I share the five tools that you can lean on to build indestructible resilience in recovery from a mental health condition, especially when life is complicated by anxiety, depression, grief, or physical health issues that bring uncertainty and long waits for answers. If you’ve ever felt beaten down or close to giving up, this conversation is built to bring you back to the next doable step.  The five tools for cultivating indestructible resilience are:• Celebrating wins, small or large, to create momentum and protect hope• Having a self-care plan with at least one non-negotiable daily anchor• Staying present through activities that absorb attention• Trusting the process of recovery even when the next step is not clear• Anchoring everything to a clear personal why, purpose, and long-term goalsIf you found this helpful, subscribe, share it with someone who needs hope, and leave a review with the one tool you’re choosing to practice today.*This is a more raw and unfiltered episode—thanks for listening with grace*AI was used to help with the creation of the episode title and descriptionFor more information about the Five Building Blocks of Recovery and/or to contact Jared, go to Five Building Blocks of Recovery (thefivebuildingblocksofrecovery.com)

What if the hardest seasons in life and along the mental health recovery journey aren’t detours but doorways? We sit down with depth psychotherapist, coach, and author Ben Hummell to unpack how identity, transitions, and purpose intersect—and why your most stubborn obstacles may be pointing you toward your life’s work. In this episode Ben and I discuss the following:1. Navigating identity struggles2. Handling life transitions3. The "wound drive" versus the "genius drive" and why both matter4. What it means to feel stuck and why it isn't as bad as it may seem5. Practices for getting "unstuck" in life and recovery6. Essential tips for finding one's purpose and life's calling, one's "Genius"By the end, you’ll have a language for your inner drives, a way to inventory your brightest moments, and the courage to outgrow identities that no longer serve. Subscribe, share with someone in transition, and/or leave a review telling us the micro step you’ll take today toward your genius.Learn more about Ben and his work at https://www.thegeniusway.com/Disclaimer: Guest views and offerings are their own. Any links, resources, or services mentioned are provided for convenience and informational purposes only. Please use your own judgment when exploring or purchasing anything. We appreciate our guests for sharing their insights and experiences.*AI was used to help with the creation of the episode title and description For more information about the Five Building Blocks of Recovery and/or to contact Jared, go to Five Building Blocks of Recovery (thefivebuildingblocksofrecovery.com)

In a world that forces many of us to mask, especially those with mental health conditions, what if your real power comes from authenticity and turning authenticity into impact?That question sits at the heart of our conversation with youth mental health advocate, student, and writer Merlot Ghadoushi, who opens up about rerouting her college path to protect her mental health, learning to set boundaries, prioritizing rest, and building advocacy work that turns vulnerability into action. We explore many different facets of authenticity and advocacy, including:Boundary setting and scheduling rest as non-negotiablePractical self-care habits for students under pressureLetting other people in and accepting supportTips for safely unmaskingDeleting social media and replacing comparison with presenceWhat it means to live an authentic lifeHow Merlot's lived experience impacted and empowered herMerlot’s work with the organization Unmasked AuthenticityPriceless advice on how to become a youth mental health advocateEssential tools for self-awarenessMemoir themes of identity, resilience, and healingFor Merlot, advocacy became a lifeline and a lighthouse. From raising funds for epilepsy research to interning with NAMI Westside LA, meeting legislators in Sacramento, and speaking weekly in psychiatric units, Merlot shows how one honest story can shift a room.If this conversation resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs it, and leave a rating or review to help more listeners find these tools and stories. Your support keeps this work going.Merlot can be reached at:[email protected] Instagram @merlotghadoushiOn LinkedIn at:https://www.linkedin.com/in/merlot-ghadoushi-2229a438b/Disclaimer: Guest views and offerings are their own. Any links, resources, or services mentioned are provided for convenience and informational purposes only. Please use your own judgment when exploring or purchasing anything. We appreciate our guests for sharing their insights and experiences.*AI was used to help with the creation of the episode title and description For more information about the Five Building Blocks of Recovery and/or to contact Jared, go to Five Building Blocks of Recovery (thefivebuildingblocksofrecovery.com)

A non-motorized trek across the East Coast. A hospital stay that reset everything. And a clear, human roadmap for living well with bipolar disorder. I sat down with Steven Nawotniak—occupational therapist, certified psychiatric rehabilitation practitioner, New York certified peer specialist, and award-winning author—to trace how he moved from coping with symptoms to building a purpose-driven life grounded in fulfillment and action over feelings.In this episode Stephen and I discuss:The two types of stigmaThe power of expanded self-awareness (Building Block #5)Four perspectives living with bipolarThree things to have a good quality of life while living with discomfortThe five rung acceptance ladder from hopelessness to giftPractical "and" statements to diffuse negative self-talkFinally, the episode ends with Stephen sharing his hopes for the future related to mental health treatment and the two lies that depression tries to tell us. If you’ve felt stuck chasing happiness and trying to fight or avoid negative feelings, this conversation points to something more powerful and grounded: fulfillment built through aligned action, even on hard days. Subscribe, share with someone who needs hope, and leave a review with the rung on the acceptance ladder you’re on today and one step you’ll take next!You can get in touch with Stephen at his website:https://www.stephennawotniak.com/Stephen's Books:Bipolar Life Hacks: Keys to Loving Life with Bipolar DisorderHandbook for Healthy Living with a Mood DisorderMubu the Morph (children's book)Disclaimer: Guest views and offerings are their own. Any links, resources, or services mentioned are provided for convenience and informational purposes only. Please use your own judgment when exploring or purchasing anything. We appreciate our guests for sharing their insights and experiences. *AI was used to help with the creation of the episode title and description For more information about the Five Building Blocks of Recovery and/or to contact Jared, go to Five Building Blocks of Recovery (thefivebuildingblocksofrecovery.com)

Hard seasons test our values. After losing a home to a wildfire, getting sick, and wrestling with an inconsistent rhythm in 2025, I made a decision that protects my mental health, supports self-care, and honors your time: I'm switching to a monthly release so every conversation about recovery gets the care it deserves.New episodes will come out every four weeks on Sundays at 3PM, which adds up to approximately 13 episodes every year. Thank you for sticking with me through the ups and downs this year. I genuinely appreciate every listen, every download, every review... And a new episode will be coming very, very soon!*AI was used to help with the creation of the episode descriptionFor more information about the Five Building Blocks of Recovery and/or to contact Jared, go to Five Building Blocks of Recovery (thefivebuildingblocksofrecovery.com)

It is no secret that the current mental health treatment model, is, to put nicely, flawed and incomplete. In this week’s episode I talk with Adam Sholder, mental health advocate and founder of Insight Enrichment Group, a mental health coaching and consulting company, about the missing elements to the standard mental health treatment model.In this episode we talk about:Adam’s personal and family history with mental health strugglesThe power of creative community in recovery (A Gap in the Forest)The importance of staying present in life and trusting the processThe concepts of “social prescribing” and “link workers” as key elements of recoveryJoin us for this illuminating discussion that reimagines mental health support as a holistic ecosystem where therapy, medication, creative expression, and community connection work together to nurture lasting recovery. Whether you're on your own recovery journey or supporting someone who is, Adam's insights offer practical wisdom for moving forward with purpose and hope.Links to Insight Enrichment Group and A Gap in the Forest:https://www.insightenrichment.com/https://www.agapintheforest.org/*suicide was briefly mentioned in the episode*AI was used to help with the creation of the episode title and descriptionDisclaimer: Guest views and offerings are their own. Any links, resources, or services mentioned are provided for convenience and informational purposes only. Please use your own judgment when exploring or purchasing anything. We appreciate our guests for sharing their insights and experiences. For more information about the Five Building Blocks of Recovery and/or to contact Jared, go to Five Building Blocks of Recovery (thefivebuildingblocksofrecovery.com)

Let’s face it; being a college student can be one of the most fulfilling but also the most stressful periods of a young person’s life.Having to balance both academic and social pressures while being away from home for the first time and working towards a degree comes with its own set of challenges for anyone, not to mention those living with a mental health condition.In this week’s episode, I interview Ryder Davis, mental health advocate and NAMI Westside Los Angeles “Ending the Silence” presenter, about his experiences as a college student at Boston University while living with bipolar disorder.Ryder and I discuss the following topics:(1) strategies for optimum self-care as a college student(2) building community in college(3) tips for academic success while being in recovery(4) what it means to choose “the path of least resistance” as a college studentWhether you're a student in recovery, a parent supporting one, or someone interested in mental health advocacy, this episode offers both practical tools and the reassurance that academic success and recovery can beautifully coexist.You don’t want to miss it!*AI was used to help with the creation of the episode title and descriptionDisclaimer: Guest views and offerings are their own. Any links, resources, or services mentioned are provided for convenience and informational purposes only. Please use your own judgment when exploring or purchasing anything. We appreciate our guests for sharing their insights and experiences. For more information about the Five Building Blocks of Recovery and/or to contact Jared, go to Five Building Blocks of Recovery (thefivebuildingblocksofrecovery.com)

A surprising dream following tragedy becomes a guiding light for an artist's life mission. After losing his Boy Scout leader to suicide at 16, Oshri Hakak dreamed of a document meant to cure all human illnesses—only to find its pages blank except for one word: "music." This mystical experience launched Oshri's commitment to creative expression as a healing force, a path that gained even deeper meaning when he later lost his brother to heart failure during a period of severe depression.Today, Oshri channels these profound experiences into children's books addressing mental health and mindfulness, daily art practices that process his emotions, music, and advocacy work with NAMI's Ending the Silence program. In this deeply moving conversation, he reveals how these practices embody essential recovery principles—from maintaining consistent self-care routines (Building Block #2) to trusting the incremental nature of healing (Building Block #3). What emerges is a philosophy both practical and profound: "These experiences don't define us, they refine us." Oshri's story demonstrates how creativity, persistence, and compassion can transform our deepest wounds into sources of meaning and connection. Whether you're navigating your own recovery journey or supporting someone else's, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on finding purpose through life's most challenging moments (Building Block #5). You can learn more about Oshri and his children's books at his website below!https://www.butterflyonbooks.com*heads up, my mic is a bit loud this time around, but the content is still gold!*trigger warning we do talk about suicide*AI was used to help with the episode title and descriptionDisclaimer: Guest views and offerings are their own. Any links, resources, or services mentioned are provided for convenience and informational purposes only. Please use your own judgment when exploring or purchasing anything. We appreciate our guests for sharing their insights and experiences. For more information about the Five Building Blocks of Recovery and/or to contact Jared, go to Five Building Blocks of Recovery (thefivebuildingblocksofrecovery.com)

After a prolonged absence since December 2024, I'm returning to the podcast following the devastating fires in Los Angeles County that destroyed my home and neighborhood in early January 2025. I share how I've used the Five Building Blocks of Recovery to navigate through one of the most difficult periods of my life and how you can use the building blocks to take care of your mental health in the midst of/after a crisis or trauma.In this episode I cover:• Creating structure and normalcy in the midst/after a crisis• Leaning on support from community• Maintaining connections with friends and support systems• Trusting that things will eventually work out• Using self-care practices daily• Implementing coping strategies for extremely high stressIf you've been impacted by a crisis or trauma, know it's not your fault and there is hope that you will be okay with time. Please seek help if needed – you don't have to face this alone.*AI was used to help with the title and description of the episodeFor more information about the Five Building Blocks of Recovery and/or to contact Jared, go to Five Building Blocks of Recovery (thefivebuildingblocksofrecovery.com)

What role does structure play in mental health recovery, and could it be the missing piece in your journey to well-being? This episode explores the transformative power of adding structure to your life (Building Block #1), drawing from my own "dark years" when the absence of grounding activities led to a mental health crisis. Through attending community college classes and participating in NAMI support groups, I discovered that even simple, consistent commitments can act as a lifeline, providing both stability and a newfound sense of connection with others. I explore how engaging in various activities, such as work, school, volunteering, or attending support groups, can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life. The discussion underscores the importance of incorporating structure as a foundational element of recovery, offering a 'reset' in daily life that fosters balance and accomplishment. Listeners are encouraged to assess their own lives and consider adding structured activities to support their path to recovery and overall well-being.*AI was used to create the episode title and description For more information about the Five Building Blocks of Recovery and/or to contact Jared, go to Five Building Blocks of Recovery (thefivebuildingblocksofrecovery.com)

Imagine growing up in a household shadowed by bipolar disorder, only to find yourself struggling with your own mental health challenges as a teenager. That was Debbie Brazil's reality, and she's here to share her deeply personal story of overcoming panic and anxiety disorders and agoraphobia. Her experiences as a mother with children living with mental health conditions, and her mission to normalize mental health conversations and fight the stigma, offer invaluable insights for anyone affected by mental health struggles.Debbie and I talk about mental health through the lens of Building Block #3 (trusting the process of recovery) and Building Block #4 (finding your community). Specifically, we discuss the importance of managing expectations along the mental health recovery journey for oneself and for loved ones, the fallacy of ever being fully healed, and what to look for in community.Finally, the episode ends with Debbie sharing her hopes for the future related to mental health for herself, her family, and the world at large. You don't want to miss it!*Debbie can be followed through her Instagram account at fiercely_hopeful*AI was used to help with the creation of the episode title and descriptionDisclaimer: Guest views and offerings are their own. Any links, resources, or services mentioned are provided for convenience and informational purposes only. Please use your own judgment when exploring or purchasing anything. We appreciate our guests for sharing their insights and experiences. For more information about the Five Building Blocks of Recovery and/or to contact Jared, go to Five Building Blocks of Recovery (thefivebuildingblocksofrecovery.com)

Francesca Reicherter shares a deeply personal journey from the pressures of competitive cheerleading to becoming a beacon of hope in mental health advocacy. Her story lays bare the impact of media, social media, and societal pressures on self-worth, and how writing and podcasting became her refuge and platform for change and breaking the stigma. We explore how her struggles led to the founding of multiple different entities and projects, such as:“Inspiring My Generation” -- a nonprofit on a mission of suicide prevention“Normalize the Conversation” -- a podcast which amplifies diverse voices in mental health“Gracefully Chaotic” -- an online community for mental empowermentFurthermore, her insights on self-care practices (Building Block #2) and meaningful relationships (Building Block #4) paint a powerful picture of resilience and community as cornerstones of mental health recovery. Francesca's journey is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability and the pursuit of meaningful education and support systems.To learn more about Francesca and to get in touch with her, check out her websites and her podcast: francescareicherter.cominspiringmygeneration.orgopen.spotify.com/show/4jRxkfg2SjvzkCidaUG3ho*Francesca's story about her mental health journey in the beginning of the episode went longer than expected, but it was incredibly inspiring!*trigger warning we do talk about suicide*AI was used to help with the creation of the episode title and the episode descriptionDisclaimer: Guest views and offerings are their own. Any links, resources, or services mentioned are provided for convenience and informational purposes only. Please use your own judgment when exploring or purchasing anything. We appreciate our guests for sharing their insights and experiences. For more information about the Five Building Blocks of Recovery and/or to contact Jared, go to Five Building Blocks of Recovery (thefivebuildingblocksofrecovery.com)

In this episode I talk about the importance of, and what it means, to trust the process of recovery (Building Block #3) for those living with a mental health condition. I also offer some tips for how to get through the bad days and setbacks along the recovery journey with less resistance.For more information about the Five Building Blocks of Recovery and/or to contact Jared, go to Five Building Blocks of Recovery (thefivebuildingblocksofrecovery.com)

In today’s episode, as part of my second conversation with Frank King, we talk more about his journey with comedy and mental health, and the importance of following one’s intuition and what intuition can look like (Building Block 5). We also talk about trusting the process in life and in recovery, especially when it comes to depression (Building Block 3), and the importance of community (Building Block 4). Frank King, Suicide Prevention Speaker was a writer for The Tonight Show for 20 years, a speaker and comedian for 38.He’s fought a lifetime battle with Depression and Suicidality, turning that long dark journey of the soul into 12 TEDx Talks, sharing his lifesaving insights with associations.He’s survived 2 aortic valve replacements, double bypass, heart attack, and losing to a puppet on Star Search and lived to joke about all of it.*we were having such a good conversation that we ended up talking longer than expected!*trigger warning we do talk about suicide*this episode was published when the podcast was titled "Five Pillars of Recovery" and before the name change to "Five Building Blocks of Recovery"If you’d like to get in touch with Frank, he can be reached at:[email protected]: Guest views and offerings are their own. Any links, resources, or services mentioned are provided for convenience and informational purposes only. Please use your own judgment when exploring or purchasing anything. We appreciate our guests for sharing their insights and experiences. For more information about the Five Building Blocks of Recovery and/or to contact Jared, go to Five Building Blocks of Recovery (thefivebuildingblocksofrecovery.com)

In this episode I talk about why having a support system outside of having a therapist is so essential along the mental health recovery journey. I also share ideas for how you can expand your support system and what it can look like to actually ask for support. You don't have to go through the recovery journey alone. Everyone deserves support.*this episode was published when the podcast was titled "Five Pillars of Recovery" and before the name change to "Five Building Blocks of Recovery"For more information about the Five Building Blocks of Recovery and/or to contact Jared, go to Five Building Blocks of Recovery (thefivebuildingblocksofrecovery.com)

In this episode I talk about the importance of accepting and embracing clinical support along the mental health recovery journey and what to look for in a psychiatrist and a therapist. I also share tips on how to find clinical support.*trigger warning I do indirectly talk about suicide*this episode was published when the podcast was titled "Five Pillars of Recovery" and before the name change to "Five Building Blocks of Recovery"For more information about the Five Building Blocks of Recovery and/or to contact Jared, go to Five Building Blocks of Recovery (thefivebuildingblocksofrecovery.com)

In this episode I talk with Frank King about how he takes care of his mental health through the lens of Building Block 2 (Having a Self-Care Plan) and Building Block 1 (Basic Stability). Frank talks about his five-part self-care plan and how he uses “gamification” to motivate him to stay consistent with his self-care practice. He also talks about the importance of having a schedule/structure and relying on his “pit-crew” of non-clinical support in his life.*trigger warning Frank and I do talk about suicide in this episode*this episode was published when the podcast was titled "Five Pillars of Recovery" and before the name change to "Five Building Blocks of Recovery"If you want to get in touch with Frank, his website is Frank King | Suicide Prevention Speaker | Mental Health ComedianDisclaimer: Guest views and offerings are their own. Any links, resources, or services mentioned are provided for convenience and informational purposes only. Please use your own judgment when exploring or purchasing anything. We appreciate our guests for sharing their insights and experiences. For more information about the Five Building Blocks of Recovery and/or to contact Jared, go to Five Building Blocks of Recovery (thefivebuildingblocksofrecovery.com)

In this episode I share my own story of recovery from dealing with anxiety from a young age, going through a mental health crisis after college, and eventually being able to bounce back and create a new life for myself as a mental health advocate. I also introduce the actual Five Building Blocks of Recovery, which are:1. Building Block 1 (Basic Stability)2. Building Block 2 (Having a Self-Care Plan)3. Building Block 3 (Trusting the Process of Recovery)4. Building Block 4 (Finding Your Community)5. Building Block 5 (Expanded Self-Awareness and Following Your Intuition)*trigger warning I do talk about suicidal ideation in this episode*this episode was published when the podcast was titled "Five Pillars of Recovery" and before the name change to "Five Building Blocks of Recovery" For more information about the Five Building Blocks of Recovery and/or to contact Jared, go to Five Building Blocks of Recovery (thefivebuildingblocksofrecovery.com)