Wish You Knew

Episode 35 with Maadhav | Letting it Out

In this episode, Maadhav shares his experience with anxiety that began in middle school and the pressure he felt to live up to expectations. He opens up about constantly questioning himself, feeling misunderstood, and struggling to balance his own emotions with the image of success he thought he had to meet. Maadhav reflects on how that pressure began to affect both his mental and physical health, and how, over time, he found ways to cope and reconnect with himself. His story highlights the importance of expressing emotions, finding healthy outlets, and opening up, even when it feels difficult.

Episode 34 with Reiley | Your mental illness, does not define you

This episode mentions suicide and OCD if you need extra support, please make sure to take care of yourself or call 988 for a crisis hotline.

Episode 33 with Nailea | Choosing to Heal

In this episode, Nailea shares her journey through self-isolation, depression, and suicidal thoughts, and how those experiences affected the way she saw herself and the people around her. She talks about the moment she realized that truly wanting to get better was the first step toward healing, and how she began to notice the support that had been there from family and friends all along. Nailea’s story is an honest reminder that choosing to heal is powerful and that connection can exist even when we feel completely alone. If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide or depression, please call 988 for 24/7 support.

Episode 32 with Vale | Floating in my Body- A Battle with Cancer and Isolation

In this episode, I, Mendi, had the opportunity to sit down with Vale as she discusses her battle with cancer and isolation. When she was 13, Vale was diagnosed with cancer and fought all the way through the COVID pandemic. Because of the timing and her condition, she was very isolated from her peers and loved ones, and felt this distanced in a profound way. We invite you to listen to Vale tell her story herself, so please enjoy.

Episode 31 with Ezra | The Conversations That Save

In this episode, Ezra opens up about how his parents’ divorce changed his life and left him feeling distant, overwhelmed, and unsure of how to cope. He shares how staying silent only made things heavier, and how learning to talk about what he was going through became the first step toward healing. Ezra’s story is an honest reminder that opening up can create space for connection, understanding, and support, even when it feels impossible.