PODCAST · health
Hold on til Dawn
by Hold on til Dawn
Welcome to Hold on til Dawn! This podcast is all about mental health, suicide prevention, benefiting the AFSP, and how music ties it all together. Erin has been participating in the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Out of the Darkness walks since October 2015 in memory of her father who took his life when she was six years old. She has hosted four benefit concerts; Wilmington, DE in 2022, Somerville, MA in 2023, Orlando, FL and Philadelphia, PA in 2025. In April of 2024 she created this podcast to share her mission of putting an end to suicide and making mental health a priority.
-
50
May Milestones for Mental Health
During Mental Health Awareness Month, this episode is extra special because I am celebrating it being my fiftieth episode of Hold on til Dawn! I'm so grateful for all I've learned through this podcast as well as all the people I have gotten to meet, talk to, and learn about. Thank you so much to all of my podcast guests and for those who have been listening for the last two years.If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988.
-
49
Finding Balance with Kathryn Mahoney
In this episode I am joined by my sister, Kathryn. We dive into her journey of becoming a certified yoga instructor, how it has improved her mental health, and helped shape her into the person she is today.Kat is a 500 hour Kripalu Yoga Instructor. She first began her asana practice back in 2012. She has been practicing, not perfecting, ever since. She completed her RYT 200 through Yoga Alliance at LPY Yoga & Barre in Lexington. As someone who has battled with mental health her whole life, yoga has been a solace. Kat’s mentality towards yoga has changed over time from just a workout to a place she could slow down, feel the breath, and re-center. After cultivating more mindfulness and meditation, she realized the power in finding stillness. For Kat yoga isn’t about being able to balance on your hands. It’s about being able to create stability within, be playful, experiment, and take that not-so-serious attitude out into the world.If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988.
-
48
My Own Best Friend
In this episode I recap my solo trip to California. I talk about facing fears and how I worked through some of my anxious thoughts on this trip. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988.
-
47
Putting Yourself First with Dimanne Mota
In this episode I am joined again by Dimanne. We discuss the importance of finding time for yourself, whether single or in a relationship, and how to focus on your self-worth when feeling doubtful.If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988.
-
46
Out of the Darkness Campus Walk at NYU
Join me as I experience my first AFSP Campus Walk at New York University! I take you along with me from check in, the opening ceremony, the walk route, closing ceremony, and my closing thoughts. You can learn more and join a Campus Walk by visiting https://afspwalks.donordrive.com/campuswalkhome. Follow along this episode on Youtube.If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988.
-
45
Facing Disappointment
This episode is focused on upsetting news I recently received. I discuss the process of how I moved through the disappointment to get to acceptance. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988.
-
44
Healing Through Awareness with Chelsea Kunkel
In today's episode I am joined by Chelsea Kunkel, who I met at the Survivors of Suicide Loss Day I attended in November. We discuss trauma, suicide loss, resilience, and finding hope in the midst of grief. Chelsea Kunkel has spent nearly 10 years coordinating the Chester County ACEs Coalition, working to build a trauma-informed community and promote resilience for children, families, and professionals. Her work extends into suicide prevention through the Chester County Suicide Prevention Partnership and as a co-facilitator of a suicide loss survivor support group—a personal commitment inspired by the loss of her father to suicide. She is driven by a deep dedication to helping people and creating spaces for healing, connection, and community strength. Learn more about the Chester County ACEs Coalition at www.CCACEsCoalition.comIf you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988.
-
43
Orlando One Year Anniversary with Johnny
In this episode I am thrilled to welcome back Johnny. Join us as we catch up on life and celebrate the one year anniversary of our Orlando Benefit Concert!If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988.
-
42
Happy ME Year!
Happy 2026! A New Year brings lots of reflection, thoughts of growth, and new changes. In this episode I recap what my goals for 2025 were and if I was able to meet them. I also discuss where I am choosing to put my energy in 2026 and what my word for the year is.If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988.
-
41
International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day
In this episode I discuss the AFSP's in-person event that I attended for the first time. International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day is an event in which survivors of suicide loss come together to find connection, understanding, and hope through their shared experience. In 1999, Senator Harry Reid, who lost his father to suicide, introduced a resolution to the United States Senate, leading to the creation of International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day. Also known as Survivor Day, the day was designated by the United States Congress as a day on which those affected by suicide can join together for healing and support. It was determined that Survivor Day would always fall on the Saturday before American Thanksgiving, as the holidays are often a difficult time for suicide loss survivors.If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988.
-
40
Dating & Self-Care with Dimanne Mota
In this episode I sit down with Dimanne for a real talk on modern love — from spotting red and green flags to staying hopeful when dating in your 30s. We cover first date ideas, handling big emotions early on, navigating ghosting and rejection, and even how astrology plays into attraction. Whether you’re fresh on the apps or feeling burnt out, this conversation will help you date smarter, heal faster, and keep your heart open.If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988.
-
39
Managing Anxiety
In this episode I share helpful methods that I use when I am feeling overwhelmed with anxiety. I have learned these techniques through trial and error as well as through therapy.If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988.
-
38
Making an Impact with Breanna Wade
In this episode I am joined by Breanna Wade who hosted our Orlando and Philadelphia Benefit Concerts. We talk about how she made a positive impact on the mental health community at the University of South Florida, hosting two benefit concerts, and helpful advice to get through tough times.If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988.
-
37
The Final Encore
In this episode I share all the special people, moments, and memories that made our final benefit concert in Philadelphia a spectacular night to remember.If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
36
Hope Lives On
In this episode I talk about our upcoming benefit concert May 17 at World Cafe Live in Philadelphia! If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
35
Listen 2 Johnny
In this episode I am joined by Johnny again! We talked about music, traveling, and our final benefit concert on May 17th!If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
34
Powered by Passion with Drew Seeley
In this episode I am joined again by Drew Seeley. We talk about his Broadway roles, the High School Musical Tour, and how his passion for singing, acting, and dancing have led him to where he is today.If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
33
From Memories to New Beginnings with MKTO
In this episode I am joined by Malcolm Kelley and Tony Oller from MKTO. We discuss their reunion in January at our last benefit concert, reminisce on past performances, and share excitement on what's to come this year.If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
32
LeadU with Connor Effenberger
In this episode I am joined by Connor who is a Program Manager at LeadU. We discuss what LeadU is all about, who it is intended for, and how to incorporate their practices into your life.Founded by former educators JD Wilson and Kelly Coulson, Lead U customizes empowerment experiences for learners of all ages. The Lead U Crew is a team of passionate teaching artists who deliver high energy, impactful programs. Lead U was acquired by the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide (SPTS) on September 1, 2021 strengthening their program messaging and mission at large.If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
31
Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide with Stacy Brief
In this episode I am joined by Stacy Brief who is the Program Director for the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide (SPTS). We discuss the focus of the organization, how to look out for warning signs, and how music can have an impact on mental health.The Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide, Inc. (SPTS) is a 501(c)3 public charity, incorporated on January 18, 2005. SPTS is dedicated to increasing awareness, saving lives and reducing the stigma of suicide through specialized training programs and mental health resources that empower students, parents, school staff and community members with the skills needed to help youth build a life of resiliency.If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
30
Shifting Your Mindset with Laura Banks
In this episode I am joined by Health Coach, Laura Banks. We discuss how changing your mindset can change your relationship with how you view yourself and in turn help you achieve your goals.Laura's Links: The waitlist for Seismic Shift The link to her Free Weight Loss Guide Her Instagram and TikTok Her PodcastIf you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
29
Hold on til Orlando
In this episode I recap the January 26th Orlando Benefit Concert that was part of Decade Days; featuring Johnny, Drew Seeley, and MKTO. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
28
Not Your Average Therapist with Kristen Gingrich
In this episode I am joined by Kristen Gingrich LCSW, CADC, CCS. We discuss her podcast Welcome to Group Therapy, ways to get through the winter blues after the holidays are over, and how music can completely transcend you. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
27
Goaling Into the New Year
In this episode I share exciting news for Hold on til Dawn's third benefit concert this month in Orlando! I also discuss what my word of 2025 is going to be and how it helps guide me throughout the year. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
26
Navigating the Holidays
This episode touches upon the grief you may be facing during the holidays and suggestions on how to manage it. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
25
You Get Out What You Put In with Johnny & Tyler
In this episode I am joined by Tyler Visgilio and Johnny. We talk about relationships, break ups, and having hope moving forward. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
24
The Benefits of Boundaries
In this episode I discuss boundaries. What they are, what they're used for, and how they can help maintain healthy relationships. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
23
Remembering the Good Times with Nicole Van Bramer
In this episode I am joined by Nicole Van Bramer again to talk about her new role with the AFSP, why suicide prevention is important to us, and how we honor those who took their own lives. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
22
Manifesting Your Happiness with Jared Moore
In this episode I'm joined by one of the artists from our September 2023 benefit concert, Jared Moore. We talked all things music, mental health, and putting yourself out there into the universe. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
21
The Season of September
In this episode I recap how I spent Suicide Prevention Month and how I plan on moving forward with the rest of my year. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
20
Somerville Concert One Year Anniversary
In today's episode I am celebrating the one year anniversary of my second benefit concert in Somerville, MA. It was an unforgettable night featuring Grace Kinstler, Alexz Johnson, Drew Seeley, Jared Moore, and Johnny. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
19
Choosing Kindness with Grace Kinstler
In this episode I got to speak with Grace Kinstler who was one of the talented performers at the benefit concert in Somerville in 2023. We talked about music, American Idol, and how important it is to lead with kindness. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
18
Designing Your Dreams with Andy Pham
In this episode I got to speak with Andy Pham who designed the artist poster for the 2023 benefit concert along with so many other graphics for Hold on til Dawn. We talked about his love for design, his experience with the benefit concert, and so much more. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
17
Suicide Prevention Month
Happy September! It is National Suicide Prevention Month. In this episode I discuss how we can talk openly about mental health and suicide, and the warning signs to look out for if someone is struggling. To learn more about the topics mentioned in this episode please visit Nami, 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, AFSP, and The Jason Foundation. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
16
Finding Joy with Drew Seeley
In today's episode I am joined by Drew Seeley who we were fortunate enough to host at our September 2023 benefit concert. He shares his love for show business, music, and finding gratitude even in difficult times. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
15
Coping With Grief
This episode takes on a deeper tone as I discuss my newest life change and how I managed to cope and navigate through the painful grief to get to the other side. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
14
Listen to Johnny
In this episode I am joined by Johnny, who was a musician in both of Hold on til Dawn's benefit concerts. He talks about his love of producing, music, and everything in between. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
13
Planning My Second Benefit Concert
In this episode I talk about why I decided on hosting another benefit concert and everything that went into making the Somerville concert what it was! If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
12
The Marvelous Ms. Margie Mays
In this episode I am joined by Margie Mays who shares all of her real life sitcom adventures; from American Idol, to booking a role in a network television show, to her growing love for Broadway. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
11
Finding Strength in Support with Sadie Leigh
In this episode I am joined by Philadelphia local musician, Sadie Leigh who we were fortunate to have at our first benefit concert in 2022. We talk all about her music career, finding strength in asking for help, and so much more! If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
10
Me, Myself, and May
In today's episode I'm recapping how I spent my time during Mental Health Awareness Month and what I've learned about myself, others, and the AFSP during the month of May. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
9
Break Through the Dawn with Tyler Visgilio
In this episode, I am joined by Tyler Visgilio who has been a part of Hold on til Dawn since the beginning. We talk about naming the concert, his friendship with Johnny, his experience with both shows, and mental health.
-
8
Hope for Healing with Heather Claflin
In this episode I am joined by Heather Claflin who is the Special Events Manager for the AFSP Massachusetts. We talked about the September 2023 benefit concert, the importance of music, and how you can make a difference with the AFSP! If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
7
Two Year Anniversary!
It is my first benefit concert's two year anniversary! I am sharing the whole story of the Wilmington, Delaware concert, from submitting the third party event application on the AFSP website in the summer of 2019 to the day of the show on May 14, 2022!
-
6
Behind the Lens with Nicole Van Bramer
Nicole Van Bramer, the photographer behind the camera at both of our benefit concerts, is here in today's episode. We talked all things photography, the AFSP, mental health, music, and both benefit concerts. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
5
Mental Health Awareness Month
May is mental health awareness month. In this episode I am talking about how it was started, what's the purpose, and how you can use this month to your advantage. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
4
Planning My First Benefit Concert
In this episode I share the story of my fundraising efforts for the AFSP and how the idea for the first benefit concert came about. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
3
Beyond the Music with Alexz Johnson
In this episode I am joined by Alexz Johnson, who was one of the musicians at our September 2023 benefit concert! We talk about her upcoming tour, concert promoting, and she offers some insightful advice for how to handle tough days. Come out to see Alexz on tour starting April 24th! Tour dates can be found on her website: https://www.alexzjohnson.com If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
2
The Reason Behind the Cause
In this episode I talk about why suicide prevention and mental health are important to me, and the reason behind my fundraising efforts for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
-
1
Welcome to Hold on til Dawn!
Welcome to my intro of Hold on til Dawn! This podcast is all about mental health, suicide prevention, benefiting the AFSP, and how music ties it all together. Erin has been participating in the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Out of the Darkness walks since October 2015 in memory of her father who took his life when she was six years old. Each year she participates she is motivated to raise more money than the year before. She has hosted multiple dance and restaurant fundraisers over the past several years along with acquiring dozens of local business donations for raffle baskets. Music has been such a big part of her life since she was younger. It was something that connected her with her father. So when brainstorming the idea for a new fundraiser, a concert was the first thing to come to mind. Her first concert was on May 14, 2022 in Wilmington, Delaware. Everyone joined together for an exciting night of live music for a great cause and had such an amazing night that she decided to do it again in Somerville, Massachusetts on September 23, 2023. She can't wait to continue spreading awareness and funds for mental health and suicide prevention with this podcast. If you are in crisis, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988
We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
No topics indexed yet for this podcast.
Loading reviews...
ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to Hold on til Dawn! This podcast is all about mental health, suicide prevention, benefiting the AFSP, and how music ties it all together. Erin has been participating in the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Out of the Darkness walks since October 2015 in memory of her father who took his life when she was six years old. She has hosted four benefit concerts; Wilmington, DE in 2022, Somerville, MA in 2023, Orlando, FL and Philadelphia, PA in 2025. In April of 2024 she created this podcast to share her mission of putting an end to suicide and making mental health a priority.
HOSTED BY
Hold on til Dawn
Loading similar podcasts...