Honestly Mental, the podcast

Episode #15: Balancing Empathy & Leadership - Engaging in Emotional Conversations

🎧 Episode #15: Balancing Empathy & Leadership: Engaging in Emotional Conversations 🎧 In this episode, host Erika Diaz welcomes back guest Ashley Andersen, who has launched a new company called Ezra Sage Co. Ashley’s business focuses on helping leaders develop skills to foster motivation and retention without compromising well-being. The conversation builds on a previous episode about emotional literacy in the workplace, taking a deeper dive into how leaders can effectively navigate conversations about emotions with their teams. They debunk the myth that dealing with emotions at work is solely HR’s responsibility, emphasizing that it’s crucial for leaders to manage these situations. Leaders can’t ignore emotions, as employees bring their full selves to work, including personal challenges. The episode stresses that while leaders aren’t therapists, they should show curiosity about emotions and create environments where people feel seen, heard, and supported. Ashley highlights that addressing emotions, even the difficult ones, fosters stronger relationships and enhances productivity. They discuss the challenges many face when addressing emotions, noting that even non-leaders should develop this skill, as it improves workplace interactions overall. The episode also covers the shift to virtual work during COVID-19, and the increased use of video conferencing, has made these conversations more necessary and visible. The workplace has changed, and leaders need to adapt by being more empathetic and emotionally attuned. By leaders openly sharing their emotions or the emotional landscape they observe in the workplace, they model vulnerability and permission for others to do the same. Even naming the emotions you believe might be present, like uncertainty, fear, or overwhelm during times of challenge or uncertainty, such as layoffs, can normalize these feelings and invite discussion, paving the way for greater connectedness and support in the team. Episode Highlights: 🫶🏽 Leaders who engage with their teams on a human level & offer emotional support build trust 🧘🏽‍♀️ Creating a psychologically safe environment allows employees to thrive, where they feel valued, seen, and supported without fear of judgment or retribution 🌟 Fostering emotional literacy in leadership not only improves employee well-being but also drives business success through enhanced engagement and motivation 💡 Tips & insights on how you can effectively engage in emotional conversations Please subscribe, rate and review Honestly Mental. It helps the show grow. The more people we can reach, the more people we can help. That is our overall goal, to help as many people as we can. Thank you! #honestlymental #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness

Episode #14: NPE: Not Parent Expected - Bio Dad & PHP Updates

🎧 Episode #14: NPE: Not Parent Expected - Bio Dad & PHP Updates 🎧 Erika Diaz delves into her experience as an NPE (Not Parent Expected) from a recent direct-to-consumer DNA test. She was initially searching for information on her medical outlook when she discovered the unexpected surprise, turning her world upside-down. Erika shares how she navigated this revelation, which led her to participate in a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) for a second time. Through Marsha Linehan’s Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), the foundation of most PHPs, she was able to work through the difficult emotions she was experiencing. Hear about Erika’s resilience and reclaiming of her mental wellness following the program, along with tools to add to your toolkit when experiencing a crisis. She explains how daily practice will help you recall those tools in distressing moments. Episode Highlights: 🧠 Understand how dialectical thinking can shift negative thought cycles 🧘🏽‍♀️ Learn how to practice mindful self-compassion & loving kindness ✅ Checking the facts can help work through distressing emotions 💡 Use opposite action to assist in changing unhelpful behaviors for better Please subscribe, rate and review Honestly Mental. It helps the show grow. The more people we can reach, the more people we can help. That is our overall goal, to help as many people as we can. Thank you! #honestlymental #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness

Episode #13: Turning Someday into Today - No Burnout Required: Self-Care & Support Systems

🎧 Episode #13: Turning Someday into Today - No Burnout Required: Self-Care & Support Systems 🎧 Erika Diaz and Amanda Riffee’s conversation centers around the crucial topics of self-care, burnout identification, and the pivotal role of seeking support. Amanda Riffee shares personal insights into her own experiences with burnout, detailing how she effectively manages it through a network of therapies, coaching sessions, and health guidance. Both Erika and Amanda emphasize the significance of setting firm boundaries, steering clear of people-pleasing tendencies, and nurturing self-compassion as vital measures for both preventing and managing burnout. They explore these practices as essential pillars of resilience. Amanda elaborates on her proactive decision-making approach, highlighting the efficiency gains and energy conservation achieved by promptly resolving choices, while acknowledging that individual preferences vary. Erika chimes in by discussing common dilemmas such as dinner decisions and reflecting on personal growth journeys, particularly in business ownership. Amanda further underscores the transformative role of her coaches, who not only aid in business strategy but also provide invaluable support in mindset shifts and overcoming self-limiting beliefs. She underscores the value of a robust support network comprising therapists, business coaches, and health advisors, essential for balancing stress and achieving holistic wellness. Throughout their discussion, Amanda emphasizes the profound non-monetary returns of coaching, likening it to investments in personal development akin to material purchases. Their dialogue encourages listeners to contemplate thoughtfully on decision-making, financial priorities, and the expansive benefits of coaching for personal growth. Episode Highlights: 😞 Identifying burnout symptoms - both physical and mental manifestations 💪🏽 The importance of support systems in various facets of life 🧘🏽‍♀️ Fostering personal growth through self-care practices and professional guidance 🌟 Is coaching right for you? How to find the right coach Please subscribe, rate and review Honestly Mental. It helps the show grow. The more people we can reach, the more people we can help. That is our overall goal, to help as many people as we can. Thank you! #honestlymental #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness

Episode #12: Rage to Relief - Recognizing Atypical Depression in Men

🎧 Episode #12: Rage to Relief - Recognizing Atypical Depression in Men 🎧 Erika Diaz and Collin Williams address the critical issue of mental health and suicide prevention. Their conversation underscores the importance of openly discussing mental health to reduce stigma and improve statistics. Erika mentions that suicide is the seventh leading cause of death among men and suggests that this figure may have increased since the data was recorded. Collin vulnerably shares about his personal experience with mental health and how his symptoms manifested in his situation. You’ll want to listen in to hear how he uncovered his atypical symptoms, along with how he addressed them on his journey. Collin supports Erika’s points by sharing that seeking help is crucial. He recalls how his general practitioner provided valuable support and medication, and referred him to recommended therapists. Erika and Collin emphasize that a general practitioner can offer comprehensive oversight of one’s health and guide patients through the overwhelming process of finding a therapist. Collin notes a positive trend where medical practitioners now routinely ask patients questions about depression, helping to normalize mental health discussions. He points out that emergency rooms can also be a resource for those without a general practitioner, providing necessary help and referrals. Episode Highlights: 😞 Depression symptoms can vary wildly from person to person - and may seem atypical 🩺 Leverage your primary care physician for help if you are unsure where to start 💪🏽 Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness 🗣️ Therapy can help individuals unlock the best version of themselves Please subscribe, rate and review Honestly Mental. It helps the show grow. The more people we can reach, the more people we can help. That is our overall goal, to help as many people as we can. Thank you! #honestlymental #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness

Episode #11: Sweat & Self-Esteem - Conquering Self-Doubt

🎧 Episode #11: Sweat & Self-Esteem - Conquering Self-Doubt 🎧 Erika Diaz and Christie Heintz take a deep dive into their personal journeys with therapy and the profound impact it has had on their lives. Christie shares her experience with marriage counseling during her divorce process some time ago. She reflects on how therapy provided her with invaluable tools to navigate the complexities of ending a marriage while maintaining mutual respect and understanding. Despite the ultimate decision to divorce, Christie underscores the therapist’s role in facilitating communication and helping her and her ex-husband navigate their new relationship as co-parents. Erika shares her perspective on therapy as well, emphasizing its role in her personal growth and understanding of herself. She discusses how therapy has helped her develop healthier coping mechanisms and manage stress more effectively. Both Erika and Christie highlight the importance of therapy not only in times of crisis but also as a tool for continuous self-improvement and introspection. Christie expresses gratitude for her supportive husband and family, who have been instrumental in her emotional well-being throughout her journey. She describes how their understanding and encouragement have been crucial in helping her navigate challenges and pursue personal goals. They conclude by emphasizing the value of community and supportive networks in promoting mental health and overall happiness. Whether through fitness communities or personal relationships, Erika and Christie stress the importance of surrounding oneself with understanding and supportive individuals who contribute positively to one’s well-being. Overall, their discussion highlights the transformative power of therapy and supportive relationships in fostering personal growth, resilience, and happiness. Episode Highlights: 💪🏽 Healthy coping mechanisms support mental wellness and personal growth 💞 Importance of a supportive community and relationships 🗣️ Therapy can help individuals unlock their best version of themselves 💻 Prioritizing mental health in the workplace is demonstrated by leading by example Please subscribe, rate and review Honestly Mental. It helps the show grow. The more people we can reach, the more people we can help. That is our overall goal, to help as many people as we can. Thank you! #honestlymental #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness