Just Stay--A Mental Health Podcast

In this heartfelt interview, 16-year-old Tatiana shares her personal journey with mental health, coping strategies, and the importance of open conversations about mental well-being among youth. Discover her insights on overcoming anxiety, supporting peers, and advocating for mental health awareness.

  This episode explores resilience in the face of adversity, personal growth through grief, and spiritual maturity. The hosts share their journey of overcoming challenges with podcast platform issues, personal life changes, and deep reflections on faith and peace.  

In this powerful and deeply vulnerable episode, we sit down with Melissa Schrade, a board member of Community Suicide Prevention (CSP) in Southeastern Idaho. Melissa shares the mission and purpose behind CSP — an organization dedicated to education, awareness, and support in suicide prevention efforts within our community.  Melissa bravely shares her personal story. Three years ago, she lost her child to suicide. With incredible courage and honesty, she opens up about grief, strength, and what it means to keep moving forward after unimaginable loss. This episode is tender, raw, and important. It’s a conversation about prevention, healing, and the power of community. We believe everyone needs to hear it. 

In this episode of the Just Stay Podcast, the hosts discuss their personal experiences with grief, healing, and the importance of human connection during difficult times. They explore the challenges of managing stress, especially during the holiday season, and the narratives we create around our stress and anxiety. The conversation emphasizes the significance of identifying underlying emotions, the need for control in daily life, and the acceptance of individual quirks and perspectives.

  In this episode of the Just Stay podcast, the hosts discuss various challenges they face in podcasting, including technical issues and the importance of mental health. They explore the impact of habits on well-being, the journey of self-love, and the significance of embracing sensitivity. The conversation also touches on physical limitations, the process of facing trauma, and the power of choice in grief. Ultimately, they reflect on personal growth and the importance of being present for loved ones despite struggles.  

In this episode, we sit down with Stephanie Toldson, Brandee’s personal therapist and an Advanced Grief and Loss Counseling Specialist, for an incredibly insightful and meaningful conversation. Stephanie shares her own journey into this work and what led her to choose a career centered around grief, trauma, and healing. We also dive into EMDR therapy....what it is, how it works, and why it can be such a powerful tool when it comes to processing trauma and loss. This episode is filled with practical wisdom, honest conversation, and “aha” moments that help demystify therapy and remind us that healing is possible, even when the work is hard. We walked away with so many valuable takeaways, and we know you will too.

In this episode of the Just Stay Podcast, the Brandee and Kenzie discuss the challenges they have faced recently, including trademark issues that have affected their podcasting journey. They share their experiences with grief, the importance of human connection during difficult times, and how they manage stress and anxiety, especially during the holiday season. Their conversation emphasizes the value of vulnerability and authenticity in navigating life's challenges.

In this episode of the Just Stay Podcast, the hosts explore the significance of friendships, the impact of negative conversations, and the importance of mental health awareness. They discuss the need for deeper connections, the challenges of setting boundaries, and the courage required to engage in meaningful conversations about beliefs. The episode emphasizes the value of community support and the responsibility to break stigmas surrounding mental health.  

  In this episode of the Just Stay Podcast, the hosts welcome Nate Holloway, the owner of Elite Prodigy Training (EPT). Nate shares his inspiring journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a mentor for youth through sports training. He discusses the importance of building confidence in kids, the impact of mentorship, and the significance of creating a supportive community. The conversation also touches on the challenges of balancing work and family life, and the ripple effect of positive influence in the lives of young people.  

  In this episode of Just Stay, the hosts reflect on their recent break, discussing the importance of self-care and coping mechanisms during colder months. They share personal experiences of anxiety related to leaving their children behind and the freedom found in taking time for oneself. The conversation delves into themes of growth through life's challenges, the impact of trauma, and the struggle with victim mentality. They emphasize the importance of self-awareness and the journey of healing, while also exploring the dichotomy of pain and personal growth. The episode concludes with a focus on the value of deep connections and meaningful conversations.  

In this episode of the Just Stay podcast, host Kinsey and her mother, Renn Randall, explore the complexities of motherhood, mental health, and resilience. They discuss the challenges of growing up in a military family, the impact of frequent moves on mental well-being, and the importance of therapy and medication in navigating life's difficulties. Renn shares her reflections on parenting, the emotional struggles of watching her children face challenges, and the lessons learned from hardship. The conversation emphasizes the power of vulnerability, community support, and the journey of healing and growth

This week, we sit down with Kody Aldrich, a licensed professional counselor with a background in law enforcement and a friend of Brandee’s family. We dive into the unique challenges of balancing empathy and emotional strength in such demanding roles, and how Kody has learned to carry compassion in his work while protecting his own mental health at home. He also shares valuable insight into something called the 5 H’s of Mental Health, a framework that can help all of us better understand and care for our emotional well-being. This conversation is raw, insightful, and full of wisdom from someone who’s seen both sides of the struggle...the personal and the professional. It’s one you won’t want to miss

In this episode of the Just Stay podcast, the hosts delve into the complexities of grief, parenting, and the dynamics of family relationships. They share personal experiences of navigating loss, the different ways family members cope with grief, and the challenges of maintaining connections with teenagers. The conversation highlights the importance of empathy, self-discovery, and the journey of healing while acknowledging the struggles of motherhood and the weight of emotional burdens.

In this week’s episode, we’re diving deep...literally. We play the "Best Self Icebreaker Series: Deep Talk" game and draw random questions that spark some pretty meaningful conversations. From life lessons and legacy to kindness, love, and what truly matters, we open up about the things that shape who we are and how we see the world. Some answers made us laugh, others made us pause… and all of them reminded us how important it is to slow down and connect on a deeper level. If you love real conversations and honest reflection, this one’s for you.

In this week’s episode, we reflect on our experience at Lights on the Lake, an event that deeply moved us and our families. We talk about what it meant to stand in that space, surrounded by love, remembrance, and community. We also open up about something more personal...the guilt and shame that we can sometimes put on ourselves when it comes to our relationships with God. From not being afraid to ask questions, to finding peace in imperfection, we explore what it means to be on a faith journey that’s honest, messy, and human. Because at the end of the day, we’re all just trying to figure out who we are, what we believe, and how to keep moving forward with grace.

n this episode of Just Stay, the hosts delve into the emotional complexities surrounding suicide awareness and advocacy, the challenges of parenting, and the importance of creating lasting memories with loved ones. They discuss the stigma associated with mental health issues, the toll it takes on advocates, and the need for open conversations. The hosts also reflect on their personal experiences, emphasizing the significance of being present and finding joy in everyday moments with their families

This week we sit down with our friend, Hollin Parkinson--a wife, mother, and social media influencer who has never shied away from sharing both the highs and lows of her journey. Hollin opens up about the impact social media has on her mental health, the weight that comes with navigating mental illness, and the reminder that hard is hard, no matter what your circumstances look like from the outside. This conversation is honest, real, and full of perspective for anyone who has ever felt the heaviness of life but kept showing up anyway.  

In this episode we dive into what drives Emily to do what she does.  High school teacher, Hope Squad advisor, Mom and Wife, this woman does it all.  In this episode, we discuss the impactful work of the Hope Squad, a peer support program in schools aimed at promoting mental health awareness and fostering connections among students. Emily Grover, a teacher and advisor for the Hope Squad, shares her experiences, the curriculum, and the various activities that help students support each other. The conversation highlights the importance of empathy, community engagement, and the challenges faced in creating a supportive environment for students.  

In this episode of the Just Stay podcast, the hosts reflect on their journey of creating 20 episodes, the impact of their discussions on mental health, and the importance of listener engagement. They delve into personal experiences with ADHD, coping mechanisms, and the significance of mindfulness and nature in their lives. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-care, establishing morning rituals, and the power of connection with oneself and others.

In this episode of Just Stay, hosts discuss the integration of emotional and mental health into holistic medical practices with Dr. Destin Thane and Nathan Furman. They explore the importance of addressing emotional well-being alongside physical health, the innovative hand scan technology used in their clinic, and the profound impact of trauma on physical ailments. The conversation emphasizes the need for community support, the stigma surrounding mental health, and the upcoming events aimed at raising awareness and providing resources for those in need.

In this episode of the Just Stay podcast, hosts Kenzie and  Brandee sit down with Brandee's daughter Jaida to talk about Jaida’s mental health journey, focusing on her experiences with anxiety and the coping strategies she's learned along the way. Their conversation touches on themes of resilience, navigating loss, and the value of having a strong support system. Jaida also shares her excitement about an upcoming opportunity to teach English in the Dominican Republic, highlighting her passion for helping others and her commitment to personal growth. Together, they explore the importance of seeing life through different lenses and how creative outlets like art and journaling can play a powerful role in the healing process

In this episode, Brandee and Kenzie reflect over how hard this episode is to record, because it's the episode right before the one year of Brandee's son, Eliah's, passing. With some heavy conversations comes some feelings of sadness, but also honesty and vulnerability. Join them for some beautiful life experiences they share, and to learn how they hold onto hope.

In this episode, we explore the mission behind Sunrise After Suicide, an organization founded to support families affected by suicide. We discuss the critical importance of postvention—providing compassionate care and resources to those navigating the complex journey of grief after such a loss. With mental health support often lacking in these situations, the episode emphasizes the power of practical help, acknowledgment, and simple acts of kindness in offering real comfort. We dive into how grief manifests differently for everyone, highlighting the need for tailored support and the profound role that community connection and therapeutic resources play in healing. Ultimately, this episode is a conversation about resilience, empathy, and how transforming personal pain into purpose can bring light to others walking through darkness.

  In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of mental health, sharing personal experiences and discussing the stigma surrounding mental illness. They emphasize the importance of open dialogue, education, and community support in addressing mental health issues, particularly among youth. The discussion highlights the need for better training for educators, the role of faith in mental health, and the significance of therapy as a means of healing. The speakers also advocate for normalizing conversations about mental health and providing resources for those in crisis.  

In this moving conversation, the hosts sit down with Jake and Joe Sharp as they open up about the loss of their brother Sam to suicide. They reflect on their personal journey through grief, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness and the healing power of vulnerability. The discussion explores their emotional experiences, the role of spiritual awakenings, and the ongoing challenges of self-care after such a profound loss. Jake and Joe stress the value of community support and the impact that sharing stories can have in helping others feel seen, heard, and less alone in their struggles.

In this episode of the Just Stay Podcast, the hosts reflect on their journey over the past four months, celebrating their milestones and the community they've built. They discuss the importance of connection, especially in times of grief, and share personal stories about navigating their emotions. The conversation delves into coping strategies, the significance of living in the present, and the joy found in small moments. They emphasize the power of human connection and vulnerability, particularly in parenting, and highlight the profound lessons learned from their children. The episode concludes with a message of gratitude and encouragement for listeners to find joy amidst life's challenges.

In this episode of Just Stay, the hosts delve into the complexities of imposter syndrome, self-doubt, and the challenges of accepting compliments. They share personal experiences of navigating public interactions while dealing with trauma and the importance of self-affirmation. The conversation highlights the lessons learned from children about self-cheerleading and the significance of creating a safe space for vulnerability. The hosts also reflect on their journeys through grief, finding moments of joy amidst sadness, and the importance of supporting one another in their emotional struggles.

In this episode, Katherine shares her journey of becoming a new mother, the challenges she faced with identity and mental health, and the transformative power of motherhood. She discusses the realities of postpartum struggles, the importance of self-love, and the strength found in maternal love and sacrifice. Katherine's story resonates with many, highlighting the shared experiences of women navigating the complexities of motherhood and personal growth.

In this episode of Just Stay, Shaeley opens up about her powerful journey through mental health challenges, including trauma, anxiety, and depression. She reflects on her upbringing in a large family, the lasting impact of a childhood accident, and the difficulties she encountered during her teenage years. Shaeley hi lights the importance of reaching out for support, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and leaning on community during the healing process. Her story sheds light on the vital role of self-care and the need to prioritize mental well-being over societal pressures.

In this episode, Detective Sergeant Eric Wheeler from the Rexburg Police Department discusses the intersection of law enforcement, mental health, and community support. The conversation delves into the impact of tragedy on both the community and first responders, the importance of open conversations about grief and suicide, and the rising rates of mental health issues among law enforcement personnel. Eric emphasizes the need for vulnerability, connection, and awareness in addressing these challenges, while also highlighting the significance of community support and the importance of coping mechanisms for those affected by trauma.  

In this episode, Kalea and Jonah open up about their personal experiences navigating mental health challenges as teenagers. Kalea discusses the emotional pressures of growing up, the journey toward self-awareness, and the vital role that support from loved ones played in her healing. She reflects on how communication, kindness, and understanding love languages can strengthen relationships during tough times. Jonah shares how the loss of a friend deeply impacted his mental health and highlights the importance of strong parental support in helping him cope. He speaks to the value of human connection and offers thoughtful guidance for parents supporting teens through emotional struggles. Together, Kalea and Jonah offer honest, insightful perspectives on resilience, connection, and the importance of keeping the conversation around mental health open and compassionate.

In this episode, the hosts discuss the growth of their podcast, the challenges of vulnerability in sharing personal stories, and the impact of public perception. They explore the lessons learned from childhood experiences, the struggle with people-pleasing, and the importance of setting boundaries for self-care. The conversation delves into the effects of trauma on relationships, the journey towards self-love, and the necessity of rest and downtime for personal growth.

In this episode, we sit down with Perry Rockwood--an adjunct professor and also over all of the social media at BYU-Idaho, who's made mental health a priority in his classroom through weekly mental health checks with his students. Perry shares what he's learned from working closely with young adults, as well as his personal journey with infertility, miscarriage, and depression. His story is one of honesty, healing, and the quiet strength it takes to keep moving forward when life looks nothing like you imagined. 

Summary In this episode, Garrett shares his profound journey through mental health struggles, addiction, and the impact of loss. He discusses the challenges of navigating his identity within a religious community, the stigma surrounding men's mental health, and the importance of vulnerability. Garrett's story highlights the transformative power of recovery and the hope that can be found even in the darkest times. Through therapy and support, he learns to reconnect with himself and embrace gratitude for life. In this episode, Garrett shares his journey of sobriety and his upcoming challenge of running a 50-mile ultra marathon to raise awareness for addiction recovery and suicide prevention. The conversation delves into coping strategies for mental health, the importance of human connection, and the healing power of vulnerability. The hosts and Garrett discuss navigating grief, finding joy in physical activities, and the significance of sharing personal stories to foster connection and healing.  

In this reflective episode, the hosts look back on their journey through the first six episodes, highlighting the vital role of community feedback and support. They dive deep into meaningful topics such as mental health, coping strategies, and the essential human need for connection. With raw honesty, they share personal stories, emphasizing the healing that comes from being seen in our pain and the transformative nature of unconditional love—whether from people or a higher power. This conversation opens space for vulnerability, growth, and the kind of compassion that binds us all.  

In this episode of the Just Stay podcast, the hosts reflect on their journey, share personal experiences, and engage in a Q&A session addressing mental health topics. They discuss the importance of vulnerability, the impact of grief and guilt after loss, and the challenges of depression. The conversation also delves into self-worth, motherhood, and the significance of therapy in navigating mental health struggles. Through their candid dialogue, they aim to connect with listeners and foster a supportive community.

In this episode, we continue the conversation from Episode 3, Navigating Social Media and Mental Health. We talk about the importance of being intentional with the way we choose to spend our time and the people we choose to spend it with, and why the energy we surround ourselves with matters more than we sometimes realize. We also share some experiences with the spiritual side of the "mending" journey--how faith and connection to something bigger than ourselves has helped us navigate the darkest moments of our lives. This is another conversation about hope, intention, and finding light when everything feels heavy. 

In this episode, the hosts explore the journey of creating a song that symbolizes their relationship and the importance of vulnerability in sharing personal experiences. They discuss the impact of social media in connecting with others, the challenges of navigating grief and mental health, and the significance of starting conversations around these topics. The episode emphasizes the ripple effect of sharing stories and the need to break the stigma surrounding mental health, while also highlighting the importance of feeding our minds with positivity.

In this conversation, the speakers explore the themes of self-love, strength through struggle, the process of rebuilding after loss, and the profound importance of human connection. They discuss how personal experiences of grief and pain can lead to deeper empathy and understanding, emphasizing that while the journey is difficult, it can also lead to beautiful transformations and stronger relationships.