The Visibility Gap

PODCAST · health

The Visibility Gap

SEASON 3 IS HERE! Men often carry emotional strain quietly—misreading symptoms, pushing through stress, or keeping struggles to themselves until the effects show up elsewhere.In Season Three of The Visibility Gap, Dr. Guy Winch and his guests examine how mental health challenges affect men across work, relationships, physical health, and identity. Each episode looks at how pressure builds, how warning signs can be missed, and how connection, support, and practical tools can help men navigate stress more effectively.Listen to the new season of The Visibility Gap podcast presented by Cigna Healthcare. All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. © 2026 Cigna Healthcare 

  1. 19

    The Early Midlife Crisis

    The season finale of The Visibility Gap Season 3, hosted by Dr. Guy Winch, explores how the midlife crisis didn’t disappear—it just started earlier. For many men, it begins as a quarter-life crisis and builds into a quieter, more cumulative struggle marked by burnout, thinner friendships, money strain, and a fading sense of purpose.In Episode 6, we examine why this crisis is showing up sooner for so many men, how social pressure and financial stress can intensify it, and why the signs are often easy to miss. We also explore how men can recognize what’s happening, reset, and begin to move forward.We’re joined by two guests: Jon Bregel and Ike Wynter—whose experiences caused them to change paths and pivot careers. Our guests are followed by psychiatrist Dr. Jake Goodman and Professor Dr. Michael E. Addis who help unpack why so many men struggle in silence during this stage of life, and what it takes to name the crisis and find support.All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. © 2026 Cigna Healthcare 

  2. 18

    How Relationships Shape Men’s Mental Health

    Men’s mental health is shaped by their closest relationships—from partners and friends to family and community. But many men are taught to push feelings aside, downplay what they’re going through, or avoid naming it altogether. Instead of acknowledging emotional strain, they often withdraw or isolate without fully recognizing why. What matters most isn’t status or success, but whether those close relationships are supportive and consistent.In this episode, Dr. Guy Winch explores how connection can protect mental health, and how disconnection can make things harder. When emotions go unspoken, feelings don’t disappear. In fact, they often show up in the relationships that matter most.We begin with Bravo Marandure, who shares his experience navigating relationships and where he turned when he needed a sense of community. He’s followed by Dr. Curtis Jasper—a psychologist, author, and speaker specializing in culturally grounded therapy for men—and Dr. Michael E. Addis, Professor of Psychology, life coach, and leading expert in men’s mental health, who offer insight into how connection shapes well-being and what it takes to build stronger, more supportive relationships.All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. © 2026 Cigna Healthcare

  3. 17

    Coping or Numbing? The Difference—and Why It Matters

    When men are under emotional strain, they often turn to familiar habits just to get through the day. In Episode 4 of The Visibility Gap, hosted by Dr. Guy Winch, we explore how behaviors like binge eating, overworking, or constant distraction can quietly become ways of numbing mental health challenges—sometimes without realizing it.This episode looks at the difference between coping and numbing, and how habits meant to relieve stress can actually deepen it over time. We also explore healthier, more effective tools for managing stress in the moment, and how support, connection, and practical coping strategies can help men build real resilience.We begin with Charles Abouzied, who shares how unhealthy coping mechanisms led to self-sabotage and numbing instead of healing. He’s followed by psychiatrist Dr. Jake Goodman and Professor Carlos Kelly, who examine why these patterns are so common among men—and how to break the cycle.All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. © 2026 Cigna Healthcare 

  4. 16

    The Weight of Work and Financial Pressure

    Work pressure, financial strain, and breadwinner expectations can quietly wear men down. In Episode 3 of The Visibility Gap, hosted by Dr. Guy Winch, we explore how irritability, overwork, and withdrawal are often dismissed as “normal stress”, and how that can cause deeper mental health challenges to go unnoticed.This episode looks at how work and money shape men’s mental health, from burnout and job insecurity to financial anxiety and pressure to provide. We also share practical ways to spot these triggers earlier and tools men can use to get support before stress becomes something more serious.We begin with two personal stories. Ken Breese shares how a layoff led him to bet on himself and created a new kind of pressure. Frankie Cena offers another perspective as an entrepreneur carrying provider stress while supporting his family. They’re followed by psychologist Dr. Curtis Jasper and clinical psychologist Dr. Michael E. Addis, who examine how work and financial expectations affect men, and how to recognize when it’s time to ask for help.All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. © 2026 Cigna Healthcare

  5. 15

    Depression’s Wear and Tear on the Body

    Depression and anxiety don’t just affect how men feel, they can also shape physical health in powerful ways. In Episode 2 of The Visibility Gap, hosted by Dr. Guy Winch, we explore how men’s mental health is often misunderstood, overlooked, or treated as separate from medical care.In this episode, we connect mood and medicine, examining how depression and anxiety can raise health risks, disrupt care plans, and worsen outcomes when left unrecognized. We also share simple ways to spot these conditions earlier, stay engaged in care, and protect both mind and body.We begin with Christopher Williams, who shares how his mental health directly impacted his physical health—underscoring the close connection between body and mind. He’s followed by Dr. Jake Goodman and Dr. Curtis Jasper, who reflect on the stigma that keeps men from connecting emotional symptoms to physical health—and what it takes to break that cycle.All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. © 2026 Cigna Healthcare

  6. 14

    Breaking the Silence: Masculinity, Generational Cycles & Making Space to Open Up More Freely

    The first episode of The Visibility Gap Season 3, hosted by Dr. Guy Winch, looks at the growing disconnect between how men appear and how they actually feel. Many men misread their symptoms, push through emotional strain alone, or stay silent—even as the mental and physical consequences build.In Episode 1, we examine how traditional ideas of masculinity can keep men quiet, contribute to loneliness, and delay getting help. We also explore how to spot warning signs earlier, open up, and find support.Fitness professional CJ Koegel shares how redefining manhood and fatherhood has changed his relationship with mental health. He’s joined by psychologist Dr. Curtis Jasper and Professor Carlos Kelly, who reflect on the cultural forces shaping men’s mental health—and what it takes to create space for men to speak openly and listen to one another.All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. © 2026 Cigna Healthcare

  7. 13

    The Menopause Movement

    Despite the many uncomfortable symptoms which may accompany menopause, women often struggle in silence. In episode 9, the season finale of The Visibility Gap, Dr. Jen Ashton and her guests, Dr. Margaret Rutherford and Dr. Deirdre Cooper Owens, discuss the physical and emotional impact of menopause and why it is frequently ignored, including cultural factors and gaps in medical training. The doctors also offer ways for women to receive support during menopause.All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. © 2025 Cigna Healthcare

  8. 12

    ​The Power of Early Cancer Detection

    In this episode of The Visibility Gap, Dr. Jen Ashton sheds light on the alarming rise of cancer rates in people under 50. Regular screenings and early diagnoses are key to surviving the disease.Nicole Seagriff shares her compelling journey from nurse practitioner to breast cancer patient to thriver―all at the shocking age of 26. Nicole’s experience has helped her become not only a better healthcare provider but also an inspiring beacon of hope for others. Later, experts Dr. Margaret Rutherford and Dr. Alana Biggers discuss how greater awareness and early detection can improve outcomes for women nationwide.All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. © 2025 Cigna Healthcare

  9. 11

    Life in Chronic Pain

    Chronic pain affects millions of women, yet it is often dismissed, leaving countless women undiagnosed and struggling in silence.To begin this episode of The Visibility Gap, Dr. Jen Ashton speaks with Kiara Randolph, who shares her experience living with chronic pain. Kiara details her challenge to receive a diagnosis and, afterwards, her struggle to be taken seriously by health care providers. In the second half, Dr. Margaret Rutherford and Dr. Wendy Kline discuss actionable ways that businesses and communities can take to help women advocate for their health and well-being.All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. © 2025 Cigna Healthcare

  10. 10

    ​Redefining Mental Health Care for Women

    In this episode of The Visibility Gap, Dr. Jen Ashton and her guests discuss what researchers have known for years--that women are about twice as likely to be diagnosed with depression as men.  First, guest Joy Allen reflects on cultural stigmas that have impacted women of color for generations. Attempting to break the cycle of dysfunction in her own life, Joy reveals her struggles and victories in both her personal and professional relationships.Dr. Margaret Rutherford and Dr. Deirdre Cooper Owens round out the conversation with strategies organizations can use to highlight and prioritize women’s mental health.All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. © 2025 Cigna Healthcare

  11. 9

    ​Heart Disease: The #1 Killer of Women

    Heart disease is the leading cause of death among American women, yet it frequently remains unrecognized, undiagnosed, and untreated. In this episode of The Visibility Gap, Dr. Jen Ashton introduces you to Tiffany Storrs who shares her story of an unexpected bradycardia diagnosis and her struggle for validation by medical professionals. Later, Dr. Alana Biggers and Dr. Margaret Rutherford delve into the emotional, physical, and systemic burdens of this critical health concern.All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. © 2025 Cigna Healthcare

  12. 8

    ​Infertility & Growing Families

    Having health benefits is crucial when taking steps to build a family. In episode 4 of The Visibility Gap, Dr. Jen Ashton talks to Kelly Donahue about her personal experience that included many setbacks but ultimately led to a beautiful family. This discussion highlights the importance of emotional well-being and support for those navigating this challenging journey. Later in the episode, Dr. Alana Biggers and Dr. Margaret Rutherford discuss the role businesses play in ensuring their employees are seen and supported. And together, they explore changes needed to make family-building opportunities more accessible and inclusive.All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. © 2025 Cigna Healthcare

  13. 7

    Teenage Girls in Crisis

    Teen girls are experiencing increased rates of depression due many factors including the impact of social media. In this episode of The Visibility Gap, meet Hailey Hardcastle, who talks to our host, Dr. Jen Ashton, about how she turned childhood adversity into a mission to help others with their mental health.Dr. Margaret Rutherford and Dr. Wendy Kline join the conversation, offering actionable insights for families, friends, and organizations. Together, they examine the root of this mental health crisis and highlight ways to help teenage girls in need.All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. © 2025 Cigna Healthcare

  14. 6

    Tackling America’s Maternal Mortality Rate​

    In the U.S., pregnancy-related illness and mortality are more likely to affect black women than white or hispanic women. This maternal health crisis, rooted in bias and inequality, is explored by Dr. Jen Ashton and her expert guests in episode 2 of The Visibility Gap.Guest Charity Watkins shares her personal story of diagnosis and discovery of a multi-generational maternal health condition.Next, health experts Dr. Margaret Rutherford and Dr. Deirdre Cooper Owens suggest actionable solutions companies can use to mitigate these health challenges.All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. © 2025 Cigna Healthcare

  15. 5

    Unpacking the Women’s Health Gap

    Women in the United States face significant health care disparities compared to men. Season two of The Visibility Gap podcast, hosted by Dr. Jen Ashton, addresses various women's health issues, including mental health, maternity health and family building, menopause, and more.​In Episode 1, guest Marisa Zeppieri shares her difficult but inspiring health journey, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy.​Health experts Dr. Wendy Kline and Dr. Margaret Rutherford reflect on Marisa's story by examining the challenges associated with the women's health gap and proposing potential solutions to this complex and consequential issue.​​All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. © 2025 Cigna Healthcare 

  16. 4

    Unseen & Misunderstood

    Simply asking your employees how they’re doing may not be enough to help them feel seen and understood.For our season's close, host Holly Robinson Peete is joined by our experts Jackye Clayton and Jennifer Brown, who dive straight into a crucial conversation around DEI and the hidden challenges of diverse issues that can impact employee health.In this episode, packed with valuable insights, listen in to hear their perspectives on what leaders and companies can do to start building safer spaces and better support their employees.All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. © 2024 Cigna Healthcare

  17. 3

    The Balancing Act

    Working parents often have to balance multiple roles at home and at work. Host Holly Robinson Peete is joined by Kelli Royals, project manager and mother of five, as well as Ivy Bryant, a corporate executive and mother of a child with a chronic illness. They discuss the unseen challenges they’ve each faced at work, sharing with us how caregiving for loved ones has impacted their careers and lives.   Then Holly speaks to expert guests Jackye Clayton and Jay Van Bavel about Kelli and Ivy’s stories, looking into the ways caregiving affects employee health and also what companies can do to help support their people when they need it most.   All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. © 2024 Cigna Healthcare 

  18. 2

    The Breaking Point

    Burnout has been a hot topic. Sometimes, it’s caused by our biggest problems. Sometimes, it causes our biggest problems.  Host Holly Robinson Peete is joined by HR leader Kim Rohrer and tech industry professional Dennis Yu to discuss the unseen challenges they each faced at work, sharing with us how burnout and stress at work has impacted their careers and lives.  Then Holly speaks to expert guests Jackye Clayton and Jennifer Brown about Kim and Dennis’ stories, revealing how burnout affects the mental health of our employees and also the ways organizations can help combat it.   All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. © 2024 Cigna Healthcare

  19. 1

    Seeing The Unseen

    We go to work every day without really seeing each other, or understanding the unseen struggles we’re all dealing with. Host Holly Robinson Peete is joined by C-suite executive Victoria Pelletier to discuss the unseen challenges Victoria has faced at work. Then Holly speaks to expert guests Jay Van Bavel and Jennifer Brown about Victoria’s remarkable story and what these kinds of problems mean for the health of our employees and also the health of our organizations.All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. © 2024 Cigna Healthcare 

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

SEASON 3 IS HERE! Men often carry emotional strain quietly—misreading symptoms, pushing through stress, or keeping struggles to themselves until the effects show up elsewhere.In Season Three of The Visibility Gap, Dr. Guy Winch and his guests examine how mental health challenges affect men across work, relationships, physical health, and identity. Each episode looks at how pressure builds, how warning signs can be missed, and how connection, support, and practical tools can help men navigate stress more effectively.Listen to the new season of The Visibility Gap podcast presented by Cigna Healthcare. All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. © 2026 Cigna Healthcare

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