Practical Strategies for Lasting Happiness

Conditional Love - Encore Presentation

In this episode of Voices for Mental Health, we explore the meaning of conditional love from the basic question of what it means, to how it shapes our self-esteem and emotional development. Guest: Dr. Dan Elash. “After years as a psychologist, I believe that it is the responsibility of parents to validate their children. In my experience, we do a mediocre job of it at best. Even with good intentions we often give love conditionally. For others, their goal seems to be keeping their kids from causing them bother or embarrassment,” says Elash. If this sounds all too familiar, this is a must listen to podcast.

Practical Strategies for Lasting Happiness

What if happiness isn’t something you chase but something you learn to experience? In this powerful episode of Voices for Mental Health, we sit down with seasoned psychologist and life strategies coach Dr. Dan, who brings over 35 years of experience helping individuals navigate life’s toughest moments. From his work with hospitals to supporting military families and first responders, Dr. Dan shares deeply practical and compassionate insights into what it really means to live life with purpose and refine our own definition of happiness. Together, we explore the difference between fleeting pleasure and lasting happiness, and why so many people struggle with anxiety, stress and depression. Dr. Dan breaks down how past experiences shape our ability to feel joy—and more importantly, how we can begin to reconnect, even in the midst of stress, depression, or overwhelming life circumstances. You’ll also hear actionable strategies to help you: * Identify and pursue “worthy goals” to help you become happier * Practice mindfulness even when life feels chaotic * Balance accepting where you are with creating the future you want * Recognize when material success is quietly replacing emotional well-being This eye opening conversation is a reminder that happiness isn’t reserved for those who are rich or seemingly successful —it’s available to all of us when we live life more intentionally. Whether you’re struggling, searching, or simply curious about how to live with more purpose and peace, this episode offers real hope—and real tools—to help you get there.

Redefining Love, Relationships, and Mental Health Across Generations

In this captivating episode of Voices for Mental Health, host Candace Schoner brings together two women from different generations—a Gen X voice and a Baby Boomer perspective—for a deeply honest conversation about relationships, identity, and emotional well-being. Through personal stories and lived experiences, Jenny Z and Janie explore how the expectations placed on women have evolved and how those expectations continue to shape the way we love, partner, and define our worth. From navigating divorce and dating culture to balancing independence with connection, this conversation shines a light on the often unspoken emotional realities women face. Together, they unpack how mental health impacts every corner of life from relationships, careers, finances, and the decision to marry and have children (or not). This episode is a reminder that choosing peace over pressure, self-worth over societal expectations, and healing over history is not only valid—it’s powerful. Whether you’re questioning a relationship, embracing independence, or redefining what love means to you, this conversation offers insight, validation, and hope.

Escaping Lies You’ve Been Sold

In this engaging, emotional and relatable episode, Becca Pearce shares her deeply personal journey from a very public career to a life-altering brain tumor diagnosis that forced her to reevaluate everything she thought she knew about achievement, identity, and self-worth. This episode is a must for all those over-achiever’s and Type A personality.

Leaning Into The Children and Teen Mental Health Crisis

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, we sit down with Janelle Moravek, a nonprofit director and dedicated mental health leader, for an honest conversation about what it really looks like to support children living with mental illness. Through both her professional lens and personal experience, Janelle opens up about the challenges families face when navigating a system that can often feel overwhelming, under-resourced, and difficult to access. We dive into the realities behind the scenes—the emotional toll, the roadblocks to care, and the urgent need for better support structures. Janelle also shares how she maintains her resilience while balancing leadership, advocacy, and the deeply personal role of parenting. Her insight is both grounding and inspiring, offering hope to families and professionals alike who are walking similar paths. This episode is a reminder that even in the midst of complexity and challenge, there is strength, connection, and the possibility for meaningful change. Guest Janelle Moravek, Executive Director of Youth and Family Counseling in Libertyville, IL