be nice. Podcast: Conversations about Mental Health & Suicide Prevention

Beyond the Stigma: A Psychiatric Nurse's Perspective on Mental Health

What does it really mean to work in psychiatric nursing? Yianna Papadeas joins the be nice. podcast to share her experiences supporting individuals through some of their most challenging moments while helping break down the stigma surrounding mental illness. From forensic psychiatry to social media advocacy, Yianna discusses the power of education, empathy, and honest conversations in creating a more supportive community.

Noticing the Impact: Childhood Experiences & Mental Health

In this episode of the be nice. podcast, Christy is joined by be nice. Director of Program & Expansion, Cat Lanting, for a personal conversation about growing up with parents facing mental health challenges. Cat shares openly about her experience growing up with a father living with substance use disorder and how it shaped her own mental health journey. Together, they discuss resilience, healing and the importance of breaking stigma through honest conversations.

Creating Systems that Support Mental Health with Megha Parekh

In this episode of the be nice. podcast, we talk with Megha Parekh of the Jacksonville Jaguars about prioritizing mental health in the workplace. Megha shares how the be nice. action plan was introduced within the Jaguars organization and reflects on the mental health impact of experiencing a traumatic workplace event. We also discuss her involvement with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and why education, awareness, and access to resources are critical in supporting employees and communities alike.

Leading with Vulnerability: Roger Bearup on Mental Health in Schools

In this episode of the be nice. podcast, we sit down with Roger Bearup, superintendent of Grandville Public Schools, to discuss how his childhood experiences shaped his mental health journey and ultimately influenced his path into education and leadership. Roger shares how those early experiences continue to inform his approach to supporting students, staff, and families, and why prioritizing mental health education in schools is essential to helping young people feel seen, supported, and prepared to succeed.

Survival, Strength & Staying Safe Online with Leyna Luttrull

Leyna Luttrull joins us to talk about mental health and the growing risks of online exploitation, including sextortion and trafficking. Drawing from lived experience and her work in education and advocacy, she shares what to watch for and how to respond. This episode focuses on awareness, prevention, and empowering people to stay safe online. The be nice. Podcast is produced by WKTV Community Media.