Overcoming Systemic Barriers in Mental Health and Education with Ty Smith

My Therapist Has Paws- A Path to Better Mental Health and Social Connection

In this episode of Stay Tuned: Supporting Transition Age Youth, co-hosts Gillian and Mei speak with returning guest Jamie Yang about the powerful role pets can play in improving mental health and supporting community participation. Jamie shares how caring for their dog, Mendelssohn, helped create daily structure and opportunities for self-compassion during challenging periods of mental health recovery. The conversation also explores how dogs (and other pets) can encourage social interaction through daily care taking responsibilities, resulting in meaningful moments of community through everyday encounters with others. And if anything, give this episode a listen to meet Mr. Mendelssohn himself.

Connection Over Perfection: Holidays & Navigating Social Stress

In this episode of STAY Tuned, Gillian and Mei discuss the challenges many people with mental health conditions face during the holidays and share realistic ways to cope, set boundaries, and stay grounded. Through personal stories and practical tips, they highlight the power of community and self-compassion. This episode is for anyone who needs a reminder that it’s okay to navigate the holidays in your own way.

Overcoming Systemic Barriers in Mental Health and Education with Ty Smith

In this episode, Ty Smith joins us to share their powerful story of resilience and advocacy. From difficult experiences in the mental health system to designing their own college degree and becoming a policy advisor, Ty’s journey challenges the stigma around mental health and disability while shining a light on the importance of peer-led support and meaningful, dignified employment for all.   We explore the systemic gaps in education and behavioral health services, the role of individualized support in recovery, and the incredible work Ty is doing today. Whether you're a student, provider, peer, or policymaker, this episode is packed with lessons on advocacy, inclusion, and building systems where everyone has a chance to thrive.

Bridging the Gap in College Mental Health: Peer Academic Supports for Success (PASS)

In this episode, we chat with Paul Cherchia, Assistant Director at the Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation at Boston University, about PASS (Peer Academic Supports for Success)—a peer coaching program supporting college students with mental health challenges. Paul shares how PASS was developed, its evidence-based success, and its unique model that pairs trained student coaches with other students to foster academic and emotional well-being. We also dive into the current state of college mental health and why peer support can be a powerful complement to traditional counseling services. Listen to find out if PASS sounds like the right fit to disseminate this fully manualized and evidence-based support to your school. If you would like to contact Paul Cherchia to get more information, please email him at: Cherchia@bu.edu [Cherchia@bu.edu].

Body Talk and Belonging: Eating Disorder Recovery in a Social World

In this inspiring episode, Jamie Yang, a graduate student and mental health advocate, shares her journey of resilience and growth in navigating recovery from an eating disorder. She highlights the powerful role of community in fostering healing through friendships and hobbies. Through her journey, Jamie explores how recovery involves unlearning toxic messages about food and bodies, setting boundaries, and intentionally choosing communities that nourish rather than deplete. With honesty and insight, Jamie shows how surrounding yourself with supportive, values-aligned people can build strength, shift focus toward wellness, and create space for lasting recovery.