PiZetta Media: Podcast with a Cause

Meet Kristy Towson, founder of Inner Strength Writing Solutions and author of Speak Up Against Stigma. Kristy shares her powerful mental health journey, from experiencing severe depression and a life-altering traumatic event to finding hope, healing, and purpose. After hitting rock bottom, Kristy discovered the transformative power of storytelling and now dedicates her life to helping others navigate their mental health challenges. Her book, written alongside 11 other women from around the world, sheds light on personal struggles, reducing stigma, and offering hope to those who feel alone. Kristy emphasizes the importance of building a support system, journaling, and sharing stories to heal and empower others. Through her work, she strives to inspire people to reclaim their lives, dream again, and find their own strength. With a goal to distribute 100,000 copies of Speak Up Against Stigma by 2027, Kristy is on a mission to create lasting change and break the barriers surrounding mental health. Follow her journey on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube by searching Kristy Towson, and join the movement to speak up against stigma.

Erin Harris, founder and executive director of Un/Do Mindset, has turned her personal journey with trauma, including surviving a school shooting and navigating the challenges of mental health treatment, into a mission to bring trauma-responsive tools and skills to communities worldwide. Drawing on her experiences as an educator and insights from her time in mental health facilities, Erin established Un/Do Mindset to address the pervasive mental health crisis and make these vital resources accessible to all. “Mental health is at the core of all of our human struggles,” she shares, emphasizing the importance of equipping individuals—particularly children—with the tools to navigate trauma and build resilience. Through Un/Do Mindset, Erin has developed a comprehensive, computer-based curriculum comprising 35 lessons that demystify the brain's functions and offer practical skills for emotional regulation and decision-making. The organization also boasts a dynamic junior board of middle school, high school, and college students who help shape its approach, ensuring it resonates with the next generation. As Erin reflects, “We all have trauma. Being human is uncomfortable, but no one should feel shame in that.” Un/Do Mindset’s work aims to normalize these conversations, provide equitable access to mental health resources, and foster a world where individuals can thrive emotionally, mentally, and physically.

In this insightful interview, we sit down with Rosa Guixens, Executive Director of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, and Troy Anderson, Executive Director of Officer Safety and Wellness, to discuss the critical findings from the 2024 Fatalities Report and the innovative programs making a difference for law enforcement officers nationwide. Rosa provides a heartfelt look into the challenges and dedication involved in honoring the 147 officers who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty last year—a 25% increase from 2023. She also shares the emotional weight of preparing for the annual Police Week Vigil and the ongoing efforts to support the families of fallen officers. Troy complements this with an in-depth exploration of the Officer Safety and Wellness programs, including initiatives like Safe LEO, Destination Zero, and resilience training designed to reduce suicides and fatalities. Together, they discuss the importance of fostering a culture of support, wellness, and safety within the law enforcement community. This video is a must-watch for anyone passionate about public safety, community support, or honoring the sacrifices of law enforcement officers. Learn more about the report, resources, and programs at nleomf.org. Be sure to like, share, and subscribe to help spread awareness and support these vital initiatives.

Antwanette Weaver is the Executive Director and co-founder of A Bold Story Never Ends, an organization inspired by the loss of her son, Cameron, to suicide in 2020. As a licensed therapist and a grieving mother, Weaver channels her pain into purpose by advocating for mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and providing support to families facing similar struggles. The organization, founded with her daughter and sister, began with a scholarship initiative for high school students overcoming challenges and has since expanded to community events, resource provision, and outreach programs. By sharing her personal journey and Cameron’s story, Weaver seeks to foster open conversations about mental health and provide tangible resources to those in need. Central to the mission of A Bold Story Never Ends is addressing the unique challenges faced by underserved groups, such as men and young people. Weaver emphasizes the importance of early intervention and mental health education for children, aiming to create a generational shift in the way mental health is perceived and addressed. The organization also prioritizes men's mental health, recognizing the heightened stigma they face and its impact on families. In addition to their annual community events, scholarship programs, and therapy support, Weaver and her team have launched new initiatives, such as a podcast titled Bold Discussions, to explore grief, trauma, and healing. With a vision of expanding their reach across the U.S., Weaver remains committed to growing the organization, increasing its impact, and ensuring mental health resources are accessible to all.

Mike Kogan, a psychologist with over a decade of dedication to mental health, describes his journey into the field as a discovery of his true calling. Initially engaged in various careers, from sales to IT, he always found himself gravitating toward people, listening to their challenges, and offering support. More than ten years ago, he decided to formally pursue psychology, earning multiple degrees and dedicating himself entirely to the profession. Kogan emphasizes that his work not only enables him to help others but also provides a sense of personal fulfillment and purpose. His approach is rooted in compassion, connection, and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of positivity. He candidly shares that the process of helping others often serves as a form of self-healing, highlighting the symbiotic nature of his work. Kogan’s mission extends beyond individual therapy sessions. Through his nonprofit, Compel America, he aims to make mental health resources universally accessible, particularly for underserved populations, including veterans. This initiative focuses on eliminating barriers like cost, documentation, and stigma, which often deter people from seeking help. He stresses the importance of creating a safe, anonymous environment where individuals can access support without fear of judgment. For Kogan, the ultimate goal is to normalize conversations about mental health and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by veterans and others, he envisions expanding the reach and impact of his nonprofit in the coming years, providing hope and healing to countless individuals.

Andrew Ackerland, BS is the Protocol office supervisor at the GMU Center for Community Mental Health.

Craig Mason, Co-Founder and CEO of Raise Health, shares his inspiring journey and the mission behind his groundbreaking organization. Combining personal lived experiences with a deep background in technology, Craig discusses how Raise Health focuses on early detection of mental health needs and automates connections to the right resources in real time. He highlights the importance of addressing mental health challenges early, emphasizing how timely support can transform lives and set individuals on a path to well-being. In this insightful interview, Craig delves into the role of empathy in technology, the value of integrating lived experiences in leadership, and the progress being made to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health. Learn about Raise Health’s innovative solutions and how they’re shaping the future of mental health care. Whether you’re a mental health advocate, a tech innovator, or someone looking for inspiration, this conversation offers valuable perspectives. Explore more about Raise Health’s mission and connect with Craig at RaiseHealth.ai.

Bruce Simpson, a 74-year-old attorney from Lexington, Kentucky, shares a powerful and deeply personal journey through decades of untreated mental health struggles and his eventual path to healing. Having long denied his mental health needs out of fear of stigma and perceived weakness, Bruce masked his pain, even as it intensified through his legal career. The cultural and personal biases he internalized kept him silent, leading to a life fraught with hidden struggles, including a meticulously planned suicide attempt. However, a sequence of events, including an intervention by law enforcement and his subsequent stay at Eastern State Hospital, ultimately saved his life. Bruce describes this turning point as transformative, allowing him to begin therapy and embrace medication, which has drastically improved his quality of life and cognitive clarity. Bruce’s story highlights his newfound advocacy for mental health treatment and spiritual connection. A self-described skeptic of both mental health care and religion, he now credits therapy, medication, and prayer for his recovery. He emphasizes the importance of dismantling societal stigma, viewing mental health issues as legitimate as physical ailments like cancer or heart disease. Bruce's experience serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that even after years of silent suffering, a fulfilling and purpose-driven life is possible. Now, he dedicates himself to helping others by sharing his story openly, aiming to reach those who feel isolated or believe they cannot be helped, proving that recovery and peace are attainable.

Dr. Brianna Hernandez is a Post Doctoral Fellow at the GMU Center for Community Mental Health

Kallen Campbell is a therapist at Ellie Mental Health of Woodbridge, VA

Lisa Sugarman, an author, mental health advocate, and crisis counselor, shares her deeply personal mental health journey and how it shaped her life's mission. After discovering 35 years later that her father's passing was due to suicide, Lisa channeled her grief into action, becoming a crisis counselor and dedicating herself to organizations like the Trevor Project and NAMI. She speaks candidly about her motivations, the importance of creating safe spaces, and her transformative work in mental health advocacy. Lisa also introduces the Help Hub, her passion project aimed at providing tailored resources for individuals from all walks of life. The Help Hub categorizes resources for various communities—LGBTQ+, BIPOC, veterans, teens, and more—ensuring everyone can find the support they need in one place. Through her work, Lisa inspires others to seek help, break stigmas, and foster meaningful connections. Dive into this powerful conversation and discover how Lisa's journey can inspire your own path to healing and advocacy.

In this powerful interview, Yolanda Wallace, Executive Director of Mother's War on Violence, shares her journey of transforming personal tragedy into meaningful advocacy. Following the heartbreaking loss of her son to gun violence in 2006, Yolanda founded the organization to address violence prevention and provide critical support for families affected by unsolved murders. She discusses the creation of impactful initiatives like advocacy in the courtroom, support groups, awareness campaigns with playing cards featuring unsolved cases, and mentoring programs like "Tea with Queens, Talk with Kings" to foster community connection and healing. Through her work, Yolanda focuses on empowering survivors and raising awareness about the challenges faced by victims of crime. Her passion for giving back to the community is evident in every initiative, from Crime Victims' Rights Day to support groups that offer grief counseling and advocacy. The organization strives to uplift families, provide crucial resources, and create a sense of purpose through pain. With a growing podcast and dedicated community engagement, Yolanda's mission is to ensure no survivor feels forgotten and to turn tragedy into hope and action for a safer future.

Karen Olson, the inspiring founder of Family Promise, shares her remarkable journey from a single act of kindness to leading an organization that has transformed the lives of over a million individuals. In this heartfelt conversation with Michael VanZetta, Karen opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped her mission, including a childhood loss that fueled her empathy for others. From giving a sandwich to a homeless woman at Grand Central Station to creating a nationwide network of support for homeless families, Karen’s story is a testament to the power of compassion and community. She highlights the invisible struggles of homeless families and how Family Promise has provided a way for people of all faiths to make a tangible difference in their local communities. The conversation also delves into Karen’s reflections on life after retirement, her accident that introduced new challenges, and her journey to find purpose through writing her book, Meant for More. With her indomitable spirit, Karen continues to inspire through her advocacy, creativity, and commitment to helping others. Join Michael and Karen as they explore the universal themes of resilience, hope, and the joy that comes from uplifting others. This episode is a moving reminder of how small acts of kindness can spark profound change in the world.

Dr. Anna Sitkoff shares her journey into the field of mental health, from her early experiences studying nutrition to navigating personal challenges, such as supporting family members through addiction and grief. Dr. Sitkoff's passion for holistic care runs deep, offering a unique perspective shaped by her experiences as a naturopathic doctor and a new mom. She explores how life transitions like postpartum anxiety and chronic illness shape her practice and deepen her understanding of whole-body wellness. In this interview, Dr. Sitkoff discusses her integrative approach to mental health, focusing on establishing foundations for optimal health through lifestyle, nutrition, and environment. She details her use of medicinal mushrooms like reishi and lion’s mane, explaining how they support stress regulation, neuroplasticity, and overall mental health. Dr. Sitkoff emphasizes a personalized, whole-body approach to care, highlighting the importance of support systems, diverse treatment options, and being open to different paths to healing. Learn more about Dr. Sitkoff’s work and her dedication to natural, comprehensive mental health care.

Lauren Anderson, Executive Director of Our Minds Matter, shares her deeply personal journey of founding the organization following the tragic loss of her brother Josh to suicide. Lauren discusses how this pivotal event inspired her mission to empower teens with the knowledge, tools, and skills to advocate for mental health in their communities. From starting small with memorial runs to now leading a growing team, Lauren explains how Our Minds Matter equips students to build mental health literacy, reduce stigma, and create supportive school environments. Lauren also opens up about her personal healing journey, blending therapy, yoga, and the mind-body connection to navigate her mental health challenges. She reflects on the lessons learned from working with passionate teen leaders and highlights the importance of family and community support in tackling mental health challenges. Discover how Our Minds Matter is making a profound impact across schools in the DC metro area and beyond, and learn how you can support or connect with their vital work. Visit ourmindsmatter.org to learn more!

Robyn Mehlenbeck, Director of the George Mason Center for Community Mental Health (CCMH) and clinical psychologist, discusses the incredible progress CCMH has made over the past year. With a dual mission of training the next generation of behavioral health providers and delivering accessible, affordable mental health services, CCMH is making a profound impact. From a 27% increase in their Spanish emotional support line usage to providing over 2,500 therapy sessions on a sliding scale, this center is truly transforming lives while addressing community needs. Learn more about their innovative programs, including free parent webinars, veteran-focused services, and the importance of addressing social media's effects on mental health. Discover how CCMH fosters community support and empowers future mental health professionals through evidence-based training. Robyn shares the "butterfly effect" of their mission and offers heartfelt advice for anyone navigating tough times: don’t isolate, seek support, and remember that help is always available. Whether you're a mental health advocate, a parent, or someone in need of resources, this inspiring conversation is a must-watch. For more information, visit CCMH’s website at ccmh.gmu.edu and explore their annual report and free resources.

Chinmayi Balusu is the founder of Simply Neuroscience, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making neuroscience accessible and inclusive for young enthusiasts. Her passion for the brain began during high school when she discovered a lack of opportunities for students interested in neuroscience outside of higher education. Motivated to bridge this gap, she started sharing resources online, which resonated with others and grew into a global community. Over the past five years, Simply Neuroscience has remained entirely student and volunteer-led, curating resources such as mentorship programs, podcasts, and virtual conferences to empower first-generation and early-career students. The organization fosters a welcoming environment where complex scientific concepts are made youth-friendly, creating a one-stop platform for exploring neuroscience pathways. Chinmayi emphasizes the importance of collaboration and empathy in advancing both science and society. She highlights the value of integrating lived experiences with research, bridging the gap between clinical studies and real-world applications. This approach ensures that scientific advancements directly address the needs of individuals. Chinmayi also discusses the growing trend among young STEM professionals to embrace storytelling and hands-on experiences, blending humanities with science for a more holistic perspective. Through her leadership, she has inspired others to gain confidence, build meaningful connections, and use their unique experiences to advocate for positive change in neuroscience and beyond.

Chinmayi Balusu is the founder of Simply Neuroscience, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making neuroscience accessible and inclusive for young enthusiasts. Her passion for the brain began during high school when she discovered a lack of opportunities for students interested in neuroscience outside of higher education. Motivated to bridge this gap, she started sharing resources online, which resonated with others and grew into a global community. Over the past five years, Simply Neuroscience has remained entirely student and volunteer-led, curating resources such as mentorship programs, podcasts, and virtual conferences to empower first-generation and early-career students. The organization fosters a welcoming environment where complex scientific concepts are made youth-friendly, creating a one-stop platform for exploring neuroscience pathways. Chinmayi emphasizes the importance of collaboration and empathy in advancing both science and society. She highlights the value of integrating lived experiences with research, bridging the gap between clinical studies and real-world applications. This approach ensures that scientific advancements directly address the needs of individuals. Chinmayi also discusses the growing trend among young STEM professionals to embrace storytelling and hands-on experiences, blending humanities with science for a more holistic perspective. Through her leadership, she has inspired others to gain confidence, build meaningful connections, and use their unique experiences to advocate for positive change in neuroscience and beyond.

In this candid conversation with Lauren Morris, host of The Mostly Mental Mom podcast, we dive into her deeply personal journey with bipolar II disorder. Diagnosed in 2014, Lauren shares the challenges and revelations she's faced over the last 10 years as she navigates the complexities of living with a mental illness. From learning to manage day-to-day stressors to overcoming societal expectations, she unpacks the "silent battle" many face but few openly discuss. Lauren’s decision to launch her podcast stemmed from a desire to connect authentically with others, embracing the raw, unfiltered messiness of life with bipolar disorder. Through music, conversations, and vulnerable storytelling, Lauren has found a way to break through the isolating barriers of mental illness, inspiring others to know they aren’t alone. Her insights on redefining success, facing fears of vulnerability, and balancing family dynamics while managing mental health resonate deeply. Whether you're on your own mental health journey or looking to understand others better, this discussion offers a compassionate reminder that sharing our stories has the power to heal, connect, and empower. Tune in and be inspired by Lauren’s resilience and her commitment to paving new paths for those living with bipolar disorder.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Isabelle Gullo, Executive Director and Co-Founder of C.A.R.E.4Paws. Isabelle shares the heartfelt journey behind creating this incredible nonprofit, founded in 2009 to strengthen the bond between pets and their families. From her beginnings as a shelter volunteer to spearheading initiatives like mobile clinics and free spay/neuter programs, Isabelle reveals how C.A.R.E.4Paws tackles the root causes of pet abandonment and ensures access to care for underserved communities. In this episode, we explore how pets provide companionship, responsibility, and love, especially for seniors, disabled individuals, and those experiencing homelessness. Learn how Isabelle’s team collaborates with family welfare organizations to create holistic solutions that keep pets and families united. Whether you're an animal lover or passionate about community support, this conversation highlights the profound impact of honoring the human-animal connection. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories! 🐾❤️