I’ll Start

In this episode of I’ll Start, we pause to reflect on the stories that shaped Season 2 and the ways they stayed with us long after the recording stopped. Rather than revisiting highlights, this episode invites listeners into a slower, more intentional look at what these stories asked of us as hosts and listeners. Together, we reflect on themes of trauma, memory, loss, and unresolved pain, and explore why so many of this season’s stories didn’t end with clarity or closure. Through clinical insight, theological reflection, and behind-the-scenes perspective, we talk about the cost of listening well, the urge to fix or explain, and the quiet courage it takes to stay present when meaning doesn’t arrive right away. We also reflect on the biblical idea of Manasseh, remembering without the sting, and how healing often involves being able to tell the story without reliving it. This episode offers space to slow down, honor what remains unfinished, and consider how listening itself can be a form of care. As always, we hold these stories with care and respect, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences of memory, healing, and hope. Listener Reflection Questions: What story from this season is still staying with you, and why might that be? Where in your own life might you need more time before meaning or clarity arrives? Gentle Note to Listeners: This episode includes discussion of trauma, emotional pain, loss, and mental health struggles. Please listen at your own pace and take care of yourself as needed. 💬 Let’s keep the conversation going! Follow @illstartpodcast on Instagram and Facebook for behind-the-scenes moments, listener reflections, and episode updates. Together, we share, listen, and connect. X: @illstartpodcast Instagram: @illstartpodcast Facebook: I’ll Start Tag us and share your thoughts using #IllStartPodcast One of the most difficult parts of mental health struggle is feeling alone. Shame, fear, and stigma keep us isolated and reinforce the belief I am the only one  who struggles with mental health. When someone shares their struggle with us, suddenly we have hope. Even when pain is present, there is something so healing about being in community. How do we build a community in the middle of our struggle?  Someone needs to start the conversation.  Most of the time we are hoping someone else will be the one to do it. What if we stopped waiting on others and told our story. What if we said, “I’ll start.” “I’ll Start” is a podcast where individuals bravely share their stories, listen with compassion, and connect through their faith and mental health experiences. Each episode of “I’ll Start” highlights a personal story of mental health challenge, endurance, and hope. At the end of each episode, you will receive mental health tools and theological truth from our Co-hosts, Morgan Arseneau and Heather Kaloupek.  If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call 9-8-8 to speak to a professional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are not alone.

In this episode of I’ll Start, Michelle shares what it’s like to be changed by bearing witness to suffering, and to carry that impact home in ways that don’t neatly resolve. Through multiple trips serving Ukrainian refugees, she reflects on the cumulative weight of what she’s seen, the loneliness of returning without shared language for the experience, and the tension of still feeling called to keep showing up. In the post-story conversation, Heather and Morgan explore the mental health impact of repeated exposure to trauma, why coming home can feel harder than being in the middle of the work, and how faith can hold space for tension without rushing toward answers. Key Takeaways Bearing witness to suffering can change us in lasting ways, even when we feel called to keep showing up Repeated exposure to others’ trauma requires unique self-care Coming home after intense experiences can feel isolating when others don’t share the same language or context Faith doesn’t always provide perfect answers, but it can hold space for tension, trust, and continued peace Healing often includes being seen and understood, not rushed toward resolution This episode invites listeners to slow down, listen gently, and honor stories that stay with us. 💬 Let’s keep the conversation going! Follow @illstartpodcast on Instagram and Facebook for behind-the-scenes moments, listener reflections, and episode updates. Together, we share, listen, and connect. X: @illstartpodcast Instagram: @illstartpodcast Facebook: I’ll Start Tag us and share your thoughts using #IllStartPodcast One of the most difficult parts of mental health struggle is feeling alone. Shame, fear, and stigma keep us isolated and reinforce the belief I am the only one  who struggles with mental health. When someone shares their struggle with us, suddenly we have hope. Even when pain is present, there is something so healing about being in community. How do we build a community in the middle of our struggle?  Someone needs to start the conversation.  Most of the time we are hoping someone else will be the one to do it. What if we stopped waiting on others and told our story. What if we said, “I’ll start.” “I’ll Start” is a podcast where individuals bravely share their stories, listen with compassion, and connect through their faith and mental health experiences. Each episode of “I’ll Start” highlights a personal story of mental health challenge, endurance, and hope. At the end of each episode, you will receive mental health tools and theological truth from our Co-hosts, Morgan Arseneau and Heather Kaloupek.  If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call 9-8-8 to speak to a professional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are not alone.

In this episode of I’ll Start, Daniel shares his story of growing up under the weight of comparison and the deep fear of never being “enough.” From early academic struggles to internalized shame, Daniel opens up about how those beliefs followed him into adulthood and shaped his relationships, self-worth, and sense of identity. With honesty and courage, Daniel reflects on what it cost him to stay silent and what it took to finally speak. This conversation explores rejection sensitivity, comparison, trauma’s long echo, and the quiet bravery it takes to let yourself be seen. As always, we hold Daniel’s story with care and respect, offering space for listeners to reflect on their own experiences of fear, belonging, and healing. Listener Reflection Questions: • What story have you been telling yourself about your worth? • Is it possible that the struggle you’re facing isn’t a personal flaw, but a signal? Gentle Note to Listeners: This episode contains discussion of emotional pain, shame, and dark thoughts. Please listen at your own pace and take care of yourself as needed. 💬 Let’s keep the conversation going! Follow @illstartpodcast on Instagram and Facebook for behind-the-scenes moments, listener reflections, and episode updates. Together, we share, listen, and connect. X: @illstartpodcast Instagram: @illstartpodcast Facebook: I’ll Start Tag us and share your thoughts using #IllStartPodcast One of the most difficult parts of mental health struggle is feeling alone. Shame, fear, and stigma keep us isolated and reinforce the belief I am the only one  who struggles with mental health. When someone shares their struggle with us, suddenly we have hope. Even when pain is present, there is something so healing about being in community. How do we build a community in the middle of our struggle?  Someone needs to start the conversation.  Most of the time we are hoping someone else will be the one to do it. What if we stopped waiting on others and told our story. What if we said, “I’ll start.” “I’ll Start” is a podcast where individuals bravely share their stories, listen with compassion, and connect through their faith and mental health experiences. Each episode of “I’ll Start” highlights a personal story of mental health challenge, endurance, and hope. At the end of each episode, you will receive mental health tools and theological truth from our Co-hosts, Morgan Arseneau and Heather Kaloupek.  If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call 9-8-8 to speak to a professional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are not alone.

💬 Let’s keep the conversation going! Follow @illstartpodcast on Instagram and Facebook for behind-the-scenes moments, listener reflections, and episode updates. Together, we share, listen, and connect. X: @illstartpodcast Instagram: @illstartpodcast Facebook: I’ll Start Tag us and share your thoughts using #IllStartPodcast One of the most difficult parts of mental health struggle is feeling alone. Shame, fear, and stigma keep us isolated and reinforce the belief I am the only one  who struggles with mental health. When someone shares their struggle with us, suddenly we have hope. Even when pain is present, there is something so healing about being in community. How do we build a community in the middle of our struggle?  Someone needs to start the conversation.  Most of the time we are hoping someone else will be the one to do it. What if we stopped waiting on others and told our story. What if we said, “I’ll start.” “I’ll Start” is a podcast where individuals bravely share their stories, listen with compassion, and connect through their faith and mental health experiences. Each episode of “I’ll Start” highlights a personal story of mental health challenge, endurance, and hope. At the end of each episode, you will receive mental health tools and theological truth from our Co-hosts, Morgan Arseneau and Heather Kaloupek.  If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call 9-8-8 to speak to a professional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are not alone.

In this special I'll Start episode, Heather, Morgan, and Fred address a topic that has surfaced across multiple stories this season: suicidal thoughts, stigma, and the myths that keep people suffering in silence. With clinical insight, biblical context, and compassionate honesty, this conversation is designed to support both those who have struggled with these thoughts and those who love someone who has. We name common myths, clarify when to seek urgent help, and remind listeners that their life has value, even when the pain feels unbearable. This episode is educational, pastoral, and grounded in care. You are not alone. What We Cover in This Episode     •    Why suicidal thoughts are more common than people realize     •    How suicidal thinking often signals overwhelm, entrapment, or hopelessness, not a desire to die     •    The difference between self-harm and suicidal intent     •    When and how to escalate concerns for safety     •    Why keeping “dangerous secrets” isn’t loving or faithful     •    Myth-busting harmful beliefs, including:     ◦    “Talking about it puts the idea in someone’s head”     ◦    “Suicide is the unforgivable sin”     •    How Scripture reflects the honesty of human despair without condemnation     •    How to support someone who is struggling     •    Where to find immediate help and resources Myth-Busting & Biblical Context Several biblical figures openly expressed despair, exhaustion, and a desire for life to end. Scripture does not hide these moments, and God does not meet them with condemnation. Examples referenced in the episode:     •    Elijah: “He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. ‘I have had enough, Lord,’ he said. ‘Take my life.’” 1 Kings 19:4 (NIV)     •    Moses: “I cannot carry all these people by myself; the burden is too heavy for me. If this is how you are going to treat me, please go ahead and kill me.” Numbers 11:14–15 (NIV)     •    Jonah: “Now, Lord, take away my life, for it is better for me to die than to live.” Jonah 4:3 (NIV)     •    Job: Job curses the day of his birth and gives voice to profound suffering and despair. Job 3     •    Jeremiah: “Why did I ever come out of the womb to see trouble and sorrow and to end my days in shame?” Jeremiah 20:18 (see also Jeremiah 15)     •    David: Several psalms end in darkness and unresolved pain, reminding us that faith and despair often coexist. The “Unforgivable Sin” (Clarified) When Jesus speaks about the “unforgivable sin,” He is addressing religious leaders who were knowingly and deliberately rejecting the work of the Holy Spirit, not people in emotional pain or crisis.     •    Matthew 12:31 (NIV) “And so I tell you, every kind of sin and slander can be forgiven, but blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven.” Key takeaway: The “unforgivable sin” is about a hardened heart, not a hurting one. Only God knows the heart, and it is not our role to judge. Additional Resource Mentioned Video resource: https://www.youtube.com/live/uSeuzZZE3f0 Self harm: https://mhanational.org/conditions/self-injury-cutting-self-harm-or-self-mutilation/ Suicide prevention: https://mentalhealthfirstaid.org/news/suicide-is-preventable-how-to-help-with-mental-health-first-aid/ We’ll be taking a brief holiday break and will return January 6 with another brave story and thoughtful discussion. Have a safe, restful, and hope-filled holiday season. Your story matters. Your life matters. And we’re walking with you. 💬 Let’s keep the conversation going! Follow @illstartpodcast on Instagram and Facebook for behind-the-scenes moments, listener reflections, and episode updates. Together, we share, listen, and connect. X: @illstartpodcast Instagram: @illstartpodcast Facebook: I’ll Start Tag us and share your thoughts using #IllStartPodcast One of the most difficult parts of mental health struggle is feeling alone. Shame, fear, and stigma keep us isolated and reinforce the belief I am the only one  who struggles with mental health. When someone shares their struggle with us, suddenly we have hope. Even when pain is present, there is something so healing about being in community. How do we build a community in the middle of our struggle?  Someone needs to start the conversation.  Most of the time we are hoping someone else will be the one to do it. What if we stopped waiting on others and told our story. What if we said, “I’ll start.” “I’ll Start” is a podcast where individuals bravely share their stories, listen with compassion, and connect through their faith and mental health experiences. Each episode of “I’ll Start” highlights a personal story of mental health challenge, endurance, and hope. At the end of each episode, you will receive mental health tools and theological truth from our Co-hosts, Morgan Arseneau and Heather Kaloupek.  If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call 9-8-8 to speak to a professional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are not alone.

In this week’s episode of I’ll Start, Victoria shares her story of depression, anxiety, and the quiet belief that she is a burden. A season of college transition left her feeling disconnected from friends, failing classes, and stuck in a cycle of numbness, panic, and loneliness. On the outside she kept showing up, but on the inside she wondered if anyone saw her, or if she even mattered to God. One night in church, a sermon left her feeling exposed instead of comforted. As she tried to slip out unseen, a woman stopped her to pray and spoke specific words of truth that confronted the lies in her mind, “You are seen. You are loved. Do not give up.” After Victoria’s story, Heather talks about attachment ruptures, how loneliness and broken connection can register as danger in the brain, and why that can create a perfect storm of depression, panic, and withdrawal. Morgan reflects on how we often transfer our experiences with people onto God, what Scripture says about truth setting us free, and the courage it takes to let ourselves be truly seen in community. Key Takeaways Attachment ruptures and changing relationships can fuel loneliness and become a setup for anxiety and depression Our brains can interpret emotional disconnection as physical danger, which can trigger fight, flight, or freeze responses Shame says “I am the problem,” and often makes truth feel exposing instead of comforting God often uses safe, courageous people to “co-regulate” us and speak truth into the lies we carry Healing usually starts with one brave step, telling the truth about what we are feeling and letting someone in 💬 Let’s keep the conversation going! Follow @illstartpodcast on Instagram and Facebook for behind-the-scenes moments, listener reflections, and episode updates. Together, we share, listen, and connect. X: @illstartpodcast Instagram: @illstartpodcast Facebook: I’ll Start Tag us and share your thoughts using #IllStartPodcast One of the most difficult parts of mental health struggle is feeling alone. Shame, fear, and stigma keep us isolated and reinforce the belief I am the only one  who struggles with mental health. When someone shares their struggle with us, suddenly we have hope. Even when pain is present, there is something so healing about being in community. How do we build a community in the middle of our struggle?  Someone needs to start the conversation.  Most of the time we are hoping someone else will be the one to do it. What if we stopped waiting on others and told our story. What if we said, “I’ll start.” “I’ll Start” is a podcast where individuals bravely share their stories, listen with compassion, and connect through their faith and mental health experiences. Each episode of “I’ll Start” highlights a personal story of mental health challenge, endurance, and hope. At the end of each episode, you will receive mental health tools and theological truth from our Co-hosts, Morgan Arseneau and Heather Kaloupek.  If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call 9-8-8 to speak to a professional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are not alone.

In this week’s episode of I’ll Start, Adam shares his honest story of anxiety, depression, loss, and the pressure to “hold it together” when life comes apart. What began as childhood fear became a quiet companion in adulthood, and a miscarriage brought every unspoken worry to the surface. As a pastor, Adam felt the weight of being strong for everyone else while silently unraveling inside. After his story, Heather unpacks how fear and grief live in the body—and why naming our experience is a crucial step toward relief. Morgan reflects on the “why, God?” moments of faith and reminds us that God meets us in our honesty, not in our performance. Key Takeaways • Childhood fear often resurfaces in adulthood when life hits hard • Grief that goes unspoken can turn into anxiety, shame, or withdrawal • Naming your experience is a powerful first step toward healing • Anger, confusion, and “why” questions do not disqualify your faith 💬 Let’s keep the conversation going! Follow @illstartpodcast on Instagram and Facebook for behind-the-scenes moments, listener reflections, and episode updates. Together, we share, listen, and connect. X: @illstartpodcast Instagram: @illstartpodcast Facebook: I’ll Start Tag us and share your thoughts using #IllStartPodcast One of the most difficult parts of mental health struggle is feeling alone. Shame, fear, and stigma keep us isolated and reinforce the belief I am the only one  who struggles with mental health. When someone shares their struggle with us, suddenly we have hope. Even when pain is present, there is something so healing about being in community. How do we build a community in the middle of our struggle?  Someone needs to start the conversation.  Most of the time we are hoping someone else will be the one to do it. What if we stopped waiting on others and told our story. What if we said, “I’ll start.” “I’ll Start” is a podcast where individuals bravely share their stories, listen with compassion, and connect through their faith and mental health experiences. Each episode of “I’ll Start” highlights a personal story of mental health challenge, endurance, and hope. At the end of each episode, you will receive mental health tools and theological truth from our Co-hosts, Morgan Arseneau and Heather Kaloupek.  If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call 9-8-8 to speak to a professional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are not alone.

In this episode of I’ll Start, Hannah shares what it’s like to live inside a mind that won’t turn off. From childhood panic attacks to compulsions that made everyday moments like church, Target runs, and dinners with friends feel impossible, she names the shame, fear, and exhaustion of living with OCD. Heather unpacks radical acceptance and the Both/And mindset—learning to say, “This is hard, and I’m not alone.” Morgan reflects on Psalm 34:18 and reminds us that God is close to the brokenhearted, even when the struggle doesn’t go away. Key Takeaways:     •    Radical acceptance asks us to name our pain as the starting point for growth.     •    The Both/And mindset helps us hold two concepts at once: “I’m struggling, and I can still take a step forward.”     •    God’s presence is not measured by our circumstances; He meets us in the middle of our reality, not after it’s all resolved. 💬 Let’s keep the conversation going! Follow @illstartpodcast on Instagram and Facebook for behind-the-scenes moments, listener reflections, and new episode updates. Together, we share, listen, and connect. X: @illstartpodcast Instagram: @illstartpodcast Facebook: I’ll Start Tag us and share your thoughts using #IllStartPodcast One of the most difficult parts of mental health struggle is feeling alone. Shame, fear, and stigma keep us isolated and reinforce the belief I am the only one  who struggles with mental health. When someone shares their struggle with us, suddenly we have hope. Even when pain is present, there is something so healing about being in community. How do we build a community in the middle of our struggle?  Someone needs to start the conversation.  Most of the time we are hoping someone else will be the one to do it. What if we stopped waiting on others and told our story. What if we said, “I’ll start.” “I’ll Start” is a podcast where individuals bravely share their stories, listen with compassion, and connect through their faith and mental health experiences. Each episode of “I’ll Start” highlights a personal story of mental health challenge, endurance, and hope. At the end of each episode, you will receive mental health tools and theological truth from our Co-hosts, Morgan Arseneau and Heather Kaloupek.  If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call 9-8-8 to speak to a professional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are not alone.

In the Season 2 premiere of I’ll Start, Dustin shares his honest journey through addiction, recovery, and faith. A high-school injury led to years of alcoholism and secrecy, but connection and grace changed everything. Heather unpacks shame resilience—the mental-health tool that helps us move from hiding to healing—while Morgan reflects on Psalm 40 and reminds us that confession is for our hearts, not God’s memory. Key Takeaways: • Shame cannot survive empathy. • Healing begins in safe, judgment-free connection. • God meets us in the pit and lifts us out.   💬 Let’s keep the conversation going! Follow @illstartpodcast on Instagram and Facebook for behind-the-scenes moments, listener reflections, and new episode updates. Together, we share, listen, and connect. X: @illstartpodcast Instagram: @illstartpodcast Facebook: I’ll Start Tag us and share your thoughts using #IllStartPodcast One of the most difficult parts of mental health struggle is feeling alone. Shame, fear, and stigma keep us isolated and reinforce the belief I am the only one  who struggles with mental health. When someone shares their struggle with us, suddenly we have hope. Even when pain is present, there is something so healing about being in community. How do we build a community in the middle of our struggle?  Someone needs to start the conversation.  Most of the time we are hoping someone else will be the one to do it. What if we stopped waiting on others and told our story. What if we said, “I’ll start.” “I’ll Start” is a podcast where individuals bravely share their stories, listen with compassion, and connect through their faith and mental health experiences. Each episode of “I’ll Start” highlights a personal story of mental health challenge, endurance, and hope. At the end of each episode, you will receive mental health tools and theological truth from our Co-hosts, Morgan Arseneau and Heather Kaloupek.  If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call 9-8-8 to speak to a professional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are not alone.

We’re back! Season 2 of I’ll Start launches October 21! Join Heather, Morgan, and Fred as they share what’s ahead: more stories of mental health and faith, honest conversations about courage and healing, and a reminder that your story matters. This sneak peek dives into what it means to integrate Scripture and psychology, to hold both faith and evidence-based tools with integrity, and to build a bridge where hope lives in both. If you’ve ever heard “you just need to pray harder” or “mental health struggles mean weak faith,” this season is for you. What to look for this season: Real stories of anxiety, OCD, trauma, and addiction Faith-filled conversations that don’t shy away from hard questions Hope, empathy, and a safe space to say “I’ll start.”  Season 2 premieres October 21. Follow I’ll Start wherever you listen to podcasts and be part of the community that’s sharing, listening, and connecting faith and mental health — one story at a time. Connect With Us: X: @illstartpodcast Instagram: @illstartpodcast Facebook: I’ll Start Tag us and share your thoughts using #IllStartPodcast One of the most difficult parts of mental health struggle is feeling alone. Shame, fear, and stigma keep us isolated and reinforce the belief I am the only one  who struggles with mental health. When someone shares their struggle with us, suddenly we have hope. Even when pain is present, there is something so healing about being in community. How do we build a community in the middle of our struggle?  Someone needs to start the conversation.  Most of the time we are hoping someone else will be the one to do it. What if we stopped waiting on others and told our story. What if we said, “I’ll start.” “I’ll Start” is a podcast where individuals bravely share their stories, listen with compassion, and connect through their faith and mental health experiences. Each episode of “I’ll Start” highlights a personal story of mental health challenge, endurance, and hope. At the end of each episode, you will receive mental health tools and theological truth from our Co-hosts, Morgan Arseneau and Heather Kaloupek.  If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call 9-8-8 to speak to a professional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are not alone.

In this Season 1 finale of I’ll Start, Heather, Morgan, and Fred sit down—this time with all three mics on—to reflect on how the podcast began, what they’ve learned, and what happened behind the scenes. They answer listener questions, talk about when it’s time to seek help, and share how faith and vulnerability shaped the season. It’s honest, hopeful, and the perfect way to close out Season 1. If you’re struggling with depression, you’re not alone. Here are some trusted resources that can offer support, guidance, and hope; Crisis Support & Hotlines:     •    988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 (Available 24/7 in the U.S.) | 988lifeline.org     •    Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741 for free, 24/7 support | crisistextline.org     •    National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline – Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or text “HelpLine” to 62640 | nami.org/help     •    SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services) – Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) | samhsa.gov Faith-Based Support:     •    GriefShare – Support groups for those struggling with loss | griefshare.org     •    Focus on the Family Counseling – Free one-time consultations with licensed counselors | Call 1-855-771-HELP (4357) | focusonthefamily.com     •    Find a Christian Counselor – aacc.net (American Association of Christian Counselors) Therapy & Mental Health Resources:     •    Psychology Today’s Therapist Finder – Find a licensed therapist near you | psychologytoday.com/us/therapists     •    Open Path Collective – Affordable therapy options | openpathcollective.org     •    To Write Love on Her Arms – Mental health resources & encouragement | twloha.com/find-help     •    BetterHelp – Online therapy platform | betterhelp.com Community & Self-Help:     •    Celebrate Recovery – Christ-centered support groups for mental health and addiction | celebraterecovery.com     •    The Mighty – An online mental health community | themighty.com     •    National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) – Reliable information on depression | nimh.nih.gov     •    Crisis Text Line: Text HELLO to 741741 (24/7, free, confidential)     •    Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.): Dial 988     •    National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/help or call 1-800-950-NAMI You don’t have to do this alone. If you’re struggling, please reach out to a trusted friend, pastor, or therapist. You are not meant to carry this burden by yourself—there are people who care and want to support you. Asking for help is a brave and powerful step toward healing. One of the most difficult parts of mental health struggle is feeling alone. Shame, fear, and stigma keep us isolated and reinforce the belief I am the only one  who struggles with mental health. When someone shares their struggle with us, suddenly we have hope. Even when pain is present, there is something so healing about being in community. How do we build a community in the middle of our struggle?  Someone needs to start the conversation.  Most of the time we are hoping someone else will be the one to do it. What if we stopped waiting on others and told our story. What if we said, “I’ll start.” “I’ll Start” is a podcast where individuals bravely share their stories, listen with compassion, and connect through their faith and mental health experiences.  Each episode of “I’ll Start” highlights a personal story of mental health challenge, endurance, and hope. At the end of each episode, you will receive mental health tools and theological truth from our Co-hosts, Morgan Arseneau and Heather Kaloupek.  If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call 9-8-8 to speak to a professional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are not alone.

This is Brian's story. What happens when the version of success you were chasing no longer works? In this vulnerable episode, Brian shares how a season of depression led to a deeper, more honest version of his calling. As a young man in ministry, Brian wanted to be the hero—but over time, he discovered that connection comes not from perfection, but from shared struggle. This episode explores how pride can keep us isolated, how vulnerability builds connection, and what it means to surrender to God’s voice in the quiet. Themes: Pride, vulnerability, depression, ministry, mental health, calling, faith, identity, healing, connection Key Resources & Reflections:     •    Isaiah 30:15 – “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength…”     •    Psalm 46:10 – “Be still and know that I am God.”     •    Conversation around defense mechanisms, emotional avoidance, and the difference between connection and performance     •    Reflection on the spiritual formation that happens in seasons of struggle     •    Prompt for listeners: Where do you connect more with the struggler or the hero? We want to hear from you! We’re preparing a special Season One finale episode—and we’d love to include your voice. Send us your questions, thoughts, or reflections at [email protected] Connect With Us: X: @illstartpodcast Instagram: @illstartpodcast Facebook: I’ll Start Tag us and share your thoughts using #IllStartPodcast One of the most difficult parts of mental health struggle is feeling alone. Shame, fear, and stigma keep us isolated and reinforce the belief I am the only one  who struggles with mental health. When someone shares their struggle with us, suddenly we have hope. Even when pain is present, there is something so healing about being in community. How do we build a community in the middle of our struggle?  Someone needs to start the conversation.  Most of the time we are hoping someone else will be the one to do it. What if we stopped waiting on others and told our story. What if we said, “I’ll start.” “I’ll Start” is a podcast where individuals bravely share their stories, listen with compassion, and connect through their faith and mental health experiences.  Each episode of “I’ll Start” highlights a personal story of mental health challenge, endurance, and hope. At the end of each episode, you will receive mental health tools and theological truth from our Co-hosts, Morgan Arseneau and Heather Kaloupek.  If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call 9-8-8 to speak to a professional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are not alone.

This is Stephanie's story. Stephanie’s story begins in the overwhelm of early marriage, new motherhood, and the crushing pressure to hold it all together. From the outside, she seemed steady. Inside, she was unraveling. In this episode of I’ll Start, Stephanie opens up about the hidden battles behind perfectionism, the guilt and rage that surfaced in parenting, and the slow, faithful path toward healing. This story is for anyone who’s ever hit their limit and wondered: Could this also be a turning point? In this episode, we explore:     •    Oversharing, shame, and vulnerability     •    When anxiety is really about love and responsibility     •    Rage in motherhood and the weight of unrealistic expectations     •    How scripture and counseling helped Stephanie heal     •    The lie that “you should be able to figure this out” on your own Resources Mentioned:     •    Unhindered: Thirty Days to Liberate the Heart by Charity Byers & John Walker https://renew.org/resources/unhindered-book     •    Philippians 4:4–7 (“Rejoice in the Lord always…The Lord is near…Do not be anxious…”) Reflection Prompt: Have you ever felt like you were too much? What’s one small way you can move toward truth or support this week? We want to hear from you! We’re preparing a special Season One finale episode—and we’d love to include your voice. Send us your questions, thoughts, or reflections at [email protected] Connect With Us: X: @illstartpodcast Instagram: @illstartpodcast Facebook: I’ll Start Tag us and share your thoughts using #IllStartPodcast One of the most difficult parts of mental health struggle is feeling alone. Shame, fear, and stigma keep us isolated and reinforce the belief I am the only one  who struggles with mental health. When someone shares their struggle with us, suddenly we have hope. Even when pain is present, there is something so healing about being in community. How do we build a community in the middle of our struggle?  Someone needs to start the conversation.  Most of the time we are hoping someone else will be the one to do it. What if we stopped waiting on others and told our story. What if we said, “I’ll start.” “I’ll Start” is a podcast where individuals bravely share their stories, listen with compassion, and connect through their faith and mental health experiences.  Each episode of “I’ll Start” highlights a personal story of mental health challenge, endurance, and hope. At the end of each episode, you will receive mental health tools and theological truth from our Co-hosts, Morgan Arseneau and Heather Kaloupek.  If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call 9-8-8 to speak to a professional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are not alone.

This is Nic's story. Connect With Us: X: @illstartpodcast Instagram: @illstartpodcast Facebook: I’ll Start Tag us and share your thoughts using #IllStartPodcast One of the most difficult parts of mental health struggle is feeling alone. Shame, fear, and stigma keep us isolated and reinforce the belief I am the only one  who struggles with mental health. When someone shares their struggle with us, suddenly we have hope. Even when pain is present, there is something so healing about being in community. How do we build a community in the middle of our struggle?  Someone needs to start the conversation.  Most of the time we are hoping someone else will be the one to do it. What if we stopped waiting on others and told our story. What if we said, “I’ll start.” “I’ll Start” is a podcast where individuals bravely share their stories, listen with compassion, and connect through their faith and mental health experiences.  Each episode of “I’ll Start” highlights a personal story of mental health challenge, endurance, and hope. At the end of each episode, you will receive mental health tools and theological truth from our Co-hosts, Morgan Arseneau and Heather Kaloupek.  If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call 9-8-8 to speak to a professional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are not alone.

This is Abbey's story. In this tender episode of I’ll Start, Abbey shares how anxiety slowly crept into her life, stealing her sense of joy—even in the spaces she loved most. With honesty and heart, she talks about the moment she realized she needed to name her anxiety instead of hiding it, and how that act became a turning point in her healing. Abbey opens up about the pressure to appear okay, the struggle of holding it all together, and how both faith and therapy helped her begin the journey back to herself. In the Post-Story Discussion, Heather and Morgan dive deeper into the power of “naming it to tame it,” a mental health principle rooted in brain science, and how it aligns with our faith. They explore how anxiety can reveal what matters to us, and how God’s perfect love can ground us when fear feels overwhelming. If you’ve ever felt anxious, unseen, or like your peace has gone quiet—this episode is for you. And if it resonates, share it with a friend who might need to hear it too. Resources from Abbey’s Story: 1. “Name It to Tame It” – Dr. Dan Siegel This phrase comes from brain-based research on how naming our emotions helps regulate them. Learn more: Dan Siegel’s Website Book: The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel & Tina Payne Bryson 2. Scripture Reflection: 1 John 4:18 “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear…” This verse reminds us that God’s love is greater than our anxiety—and invites us to root our identity in Him. 3. Mental Health Tool: Emotional Check-In Try this simple tool: Pause Name what you’re feeling Ask: “What is this emotion trying to protect or show me?” Invite God into that space with grace, not shame 4. Recommended Devotional: “Anxious for Nothing” by Max Lucado - Faith-based encouragement for those navigating anxiety.   5. Crisis + Professional Support Resources: National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): nami.org Faithful Counseling (Christian therapy online): faithfulcounseling.com In a crisis? Text HOME to 741741 to reach a crisis counselor via the Crisis Text Line (U.S. only)   6.  Book Recommendation: The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness by Jonathan Haidt A powerful exploration of the cultural shifts—especially around screen time and social media—that have shaped today’s mental health landscape. This book pairs well with Abbey’s story and offers practical insight for parents, leaders, and anyone who cares about the next generation. Connect With Us: X: @illstartpodcast Instagram: @illstartpodcast Facebook: I’ll Start Tag us and share your thoughts using #IllStartPodcast One of the most difficult parts of mental health struggle is feeling alone. Shame, fear, and stigma keep us isolated and reinforce the belief I am the only one  who struggles with mental health. When someone shares their struggle with us, suddenly we have hope. Even when pain is present, there is something so healing about being in community. How do we build a community in the middle of our struggle?  Someone needs to start the conversation.  Most of the time we are hoping someone else will be the one to do it. What if we stopped waiting on others and told our story. What if we said, “I’ll start.” “I’ll Start” is a podcast where individuals bravely share their stories, listen with compassion, and connect through their faith and mental health experiences.  Each episode of “I’ll Start” highlights a personal story of mental health challenge, endurance, and hope. At the end of each episode, you will receive mental health tools and theological truth from our Co-hosts, Morgan Arseneau and Heather Kaloupek.  If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call 9-8-8 to speak to a professional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are not alone.

This is Heather's story. In this deeply honest and encouraging episode, Heather shares her personal journey of living with undiagnosed ADHD for most of her life. From early struggles in childhood to the quiet exhaustion of constantly masking, Heather opens up about the moment things finally began to make sense. Through clarity, kind words, and a faith-filled lens, she began to reframe her story—and in doing so, found hope. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with ADHD, love someone who has, or simply know what it feels like to wrestle with feeling “too much” or “not enough,” this episode is for you. It’s a powerful reminder that understanding changes everything. In this episode, we explore:     •    What it’s like to live with undiagnosed ADHD as an adult     •    How childhood experiences can shape our inner narratives     •    The power of kind words and community     •    Faith as a source of clarity and hope     •    Tools for reframing identity and embracing your true self Resources Mentioned: ADHD is Awesome by Penn & Kim Holderness – Buy the book     1.    “Females with ADHD: An Expert Consensus Statement” This article discusses how females with ADHD often exhibit different symptom profiles compared to males, including variations in comorbidity and associated functioning. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7422602/     2.    “Gender Differences in Adult ADHD: Cognitive Function Assessed by the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery” This study explores how ADHD manifests differently in adults based on gender, noting that females are more likely to present with inattentive symptoms, while males often display combined symptoms with higher rates of hyperactivity and impulsivity. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7561166/     3.    “Miss. Diagnosis: A Systematic Review of ADHD in Adult Women” This systematic review highlights that women with ADHD are often rated as more impaired on various measures of ADHD symptoms and tend to score higher on related rating scales compared to men. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38324203/     4.    “How ADHD Differs in Males and Females” This article discusses how females with ADHD may experience more significant subjective impairment than males, with a tendency to report more severe inattention symptoms. It also notes different patterns of comorbidity, with males more likely to have externalizing disorders. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1876201822002039 Connect With Us: X: @illstartpodcast Instagram: @illstartpodcast Facebook: I’ll Start Tag us and share your thoughts using #IllStartPodcast One of the most difficult parts of mental health struggle is feeling alone. Shame, fear, and stigma keep us isolated and reinforce the belief I am the only one  who struggles with mental health. When someone shares their struggle with us, suddenly we have hope. Even when pain is present, there is something so healing about being in community. How do we build a community in the middle of our struggle?  Someone needs to start the conversation.  Most of the time we are hoping someone else will be the one to do it. What if we stopped waiting on others and told our story. What if we said, “I’ll start.” “I’ll Start” is a podcast where individuals bravely share their stories, listen with compassion, and connect through their faith and mental health experiences.  Each episode of “I’ll Start” highlights a personal story of mental health challenge, endurance, and hope. At the end of each episode, you will receive mental health tools and theological truth from our Co-hosts, Morgan Arseneau and Heather Kaloupek.  If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call 9-8-8 to speak to a professional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are not alone.

This is Fred's story. In this heartfelt episode of I’ll Start, Fred shares his raw journey through grief and the emotional challenges of losing his father. He talks about how grief can shape our lives, but also how healing, though difficult, is possible. Fred opens up about the importance of breaking generational patterns, addressing mental health openly, and finding strength in faith. In the Post-Story Discussion, Heather and Morgan explore how healing from grief and anxiety is a gradual process, offering encouragement for those who are struggling. They discuss the power of reaching out for help, leaning into coping tools, and trusting in your faith. If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who might need to hear it. And if you’re walking through a similar journey, know that we are in your corner. Mental Health Resources:     •    National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (U.S.): 988     •    Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741     •    The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA): www.adaa.org     •    GriefShare: www.griefshare.org     •    Mental Health America: www.mhanational.org     •    The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): www.nami.org One of the most difficult parts of mental health struggle is feeling alone. Shame, fear, and stigma keep us isolated and reinforce the belief I am the only one  who struggles with mental health. When someone shares their struggle with us, suddenly we have hope. Even when pain is present, there is something so healing about being in community. How do we build a community in the middle of our struggle?  Someone needs to start the conversation.  Most of the time we are hoping someone else will be the one to do it. What if we stopped waiting on others and told our story. What if we said, “I’ll start.” “I’ll Start” is a podcast where individuals bravely share their stories, listen with compassion, and connect through their faith and mental health experiences.  Each episode of “I’ll Start” highlights a personal story of mental health challenge, endurance, and hope. At the end of each episode, you will receive mental health tools and theological truth from our Co-hosts, Morgan Arseneau and Heather Kaloupek.  If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call 9-8-8 to speak to a professional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are not alone.

This is Morgan's story. If you’re struggling with depression, you’re not alone. Here are some trusted resources that can offer support, guidance, and hope: Crisis Support & Hotlines:     •    988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 (Available 24/7 in the U.S.) | 988lifeline.org     •    Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741 for free, 24/7 support | crisistextline.org     •    National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline – Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or text “HelpLine” to 62640 | nami.org/help     •    SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services) – Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) | samhsa.gov Faith-Based Support:     •    GriefShare – Support groups for those struggling with loss | griefshare.org     •    Focus on the Family Counseling – Free one-time consultations with licensed counselors | Call 1-855-771-HELP (4357) | focusonthefamily.com     •    Find a Christian Counselor – aacc.net (American Association of Christian Counselors) Therapy & Mental Health Resources:     •    Psychology Today’s Therapist Finder – Find a licensed therapist near you | psychologytoday.com/us/therapists     •    Open Path Collective – Affordable therapy options | openpathcollective.org     •    To Write Love on Her Arms – Mental health resources & encouragement | twloha.com/find-help     •    BetterHelp – Online therapy platform | betterhelp.com Community & Self-Help:     •    Celebrate Recovery – Christ-centered support groups for mental health and addiction | celebraterecovery.com     •    The Mighty – An online mental health community | themighty.com     •    National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) – Reliable information on depression | nimh.nih.gov You don’t have to do this alone. If you’re struggling, please reach out to a trusted friend, pastor, or therapist. You are not meant to carry this burden by yourself—there are people who care and want to support you. Asking for help is a brave and powerful step toward healing. One of the most difficult parts of mental health struggle is feeling alone. Shame, fear, and stigma keep us isolated and reinforce the belief I am the only one  who struggles with mental health. When someone shares their struggle with us, suddenly we have hope. Even when pain is present, there is something so healing about being in community. How do we build a community in the middle of our struggle?  Someone needs to start the conversation.  Most of the time we are hoping someone else will be the one to do it. What if we stopped waiting on others and told our story. What if we said, “I’ll start.” “I’ll Start” is a podcast where individuals bravely share their stories, listen with compassion, and connect through their faith and mental health experiences.  Each episode of “I’ll Start” highlights a personal story of mental health challenge, endurance, and hope. At the end of each episode, you will receive mental health tools and theological truth from our Co-hosts, Morgan Arseneau and Heather Kaloupek.  If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call 9-8-8 to speak to a professional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are not alone.

Welcome to "I'll Start," a podcast where we integrate faith and mental health—no filters, no pretenses, just raw stories and the hope that comes with sharing them. Our mission is simple: break the stigma, build a community of support, and remind you that no matter where you are in your journey, you're not alone.

One of the most difficult parts of mental health struggle is feeling alone. Shame, fear, and stigma keep us isolated and reinforce the belief I am the only one  who struggles with mental health. When someone shares their struggle with us, suddenly we have hope. Even when pain is present, there is something so healing about being in community. How do we build a community in the middle of our struggle?  Someone needs to start the conversation.  Most of the time we are hoping someone else will be the one to do it. What if we stopped waiting on others and told our story. What if we said, “I’ll start.” “I’ll Start” is a podcast where individuals bravely share their stories, listen with compassion, and connect through their faith and mental health experiences.  Coming March 5th, Each episode of “I’ll Start” highlights a personal story of mental health challenge, endurance, and hope. At the end of each episode, you will receive mental health tools and theological truth from our Co-hosts, Morgan Arseneau and Heather Kaloupek.  If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call 9-8-8 to speak to a professional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are not alone.