Claim OwnershipNormalize It Forward
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The transition to college and the college years are a challenging phase for a young adult. Besides jumping into a higher level of education and the bigger responsibilities that come with it, they also live away from home, face numerous adjustments, and connect with brand-new faces. It often leads to various mental health issues, and sadly, this age bracket usually lacks access to proper care and support in this area. The stigma around it is ripe and almost unbreakable. This podcast aims to remove this major roadblock on the path toward the growth for these promising young people.
Welcome to Normalize It Forward, the show that brings crucial conversations about the mental health and wellness of young adults into the spotlight. This is for those preparing to enter college, currently in the middle of their college journey, parents who want to support them better, and therapists who desire to improve their methods.
Each episode delves into a wide range of approaches to elevate mental health and gain a more meaningful life. For young adults, this is your go-to resource for self-love and mindfulness. Learn effective ways to clear your mind of negativity and build a more positive outlook. Find out how breathwork exercises, meditation, and yoga sessions can help you, especially if you have not tried them. Discover the benefits of improving time management skills, reducing social media exposure, and avoiding getting burned out from your overwhelming to-do lists.
Hear first-hand experiences from students, parents, therapists and more about the mental health issues faced by most young adults today. Listen to stories of triumphs and losses to find out how to emulate their biggest wins and avoid following their biggest mistakes. Each individual’s mind works in its own unique ways, but there are always valuable lessons to learn from their in-depth insights and realizations.
Hosting the podcast is Marc Lehman, a marriage and family therapist with over two decades of professional experience. Aside from seeing couples for marital therapy, he also specializes in working with young adults transitioning from high school to college to address their mental health and environmental difficulties.
Marc owns U ARE HEARD LLC, an online coaching business for students across the United States who need assistance while they are away at school. As an interactive and solution-focused therapist, he efficiently combines complementary methodologies with compassion and understanding to offer highly personalized services to each client.
Marc brings to the podcast his vast knowledge from his many years of interaction with people from all walks of life who face different mental health issues. He has guided countless students through the hardest moments of their college years. He has evaluated families of all different sizes and backgrounds. He has treated inpatient and outpatient individuals. He has met persons who have fallen into addiction, struggled with illnesses, or even contemplated taking their own lives. This puts Marc in a position to fully understand what is helping or not when it comes to one’s mental health. His eye-opening insights make every episode more informative, engaging, and enlightening.
Today’s young people will run the world one day. The future is in their hands. If they are not their best selves while getting their education, it will be all for naught. They will not be able to efficiently apply their learnings to the real world or create the changes they want to happen. If you are one of these young adults who wants to make your college years fruitful and meaningful, Marc is here to teach you how to face your inner battles. By taking care of your mental health and putting yourself on the path to wellness and mindfulness, you will experience profound growth and unparalleled success. Now is the time to normalize this conversation, break the stigma, and unleash your fullest potential.
Tune in to Normalize It Forward at www.uareheard.com.
42 Episodes
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The path to healing from post-traumatic stress requires bravery, honesty, and a willingness to share your story. Bob Delaney‘s life truly reads like a movie script: he’s a former New Jersey State Trooper who spent three years undercover infiltrating the mob, and later became one of the NBA’s most respected referees, officiating over 1,500 games. His extraordinary journey has made him a leading voice on resilience and leadership, using his experience to help first responders, veterans, and athletes understand the human side of high-pressure lives. Bob discusses how the game of basketball became his therapy and how a common-sense approach is better than over-medicalizing the conversation. He reminds us that trauma is inescapable, and through his powerful Kintsugi analogy for healing, he proves that what is personal is universal.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.
Men’s mental health takes center stage as we hear a story of turning pain into purpose. Marc Lehman welcomes identical twins, fitness coaches, and mental health advocates Jake and Joe Sharp, who turned the tragedy of losing their younger brother Sam to suicide into a powerful mission to help others heal. They speak with incredible honesty about the impact of grief, the darkness of depression, and overcoming the isolating grip of shame and perfectionism. Their raw, real, and deeply human conversation explores the life-changing role that community, physical wellness, and finding hope played in their journey, showing listeners that true healing means connecting and growing strong together.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.
The true strength in men’s mental health isn’t toughing it out, but taking off the mask and choosing to fight another day. Marc Lehman sits down with former athlete turned passionate mental health advocate and founder of Unbeaten, Dean Daniel, who shares his raw and incredibly powerful journey through chronic pain, eight spinal surgeries, and multiple suicide attempts. As a proud ambassador for Tough To Talk, Dean opens up about the stigma surrounding men’s emotions, the devastating effects of silence on families, and the life-changing choice he made to live and help others realize they are never truly alone.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.
Navigating the complicated landscape of adolescent mental health requires empathy, support, and an open conversation. Marc Lehman welcomes Jill Weinstein, an LPC, mental health professional, and Clinical Director of Ignite, an adolescent mental health program at the Berman Center in Atlanta, who shares her insights from over 20 years of experience. The conversation explores the “big shift” of young adults leaving for college, the importance of proactive support—including managing legal shifts like FERPA—and the complicated, multilayered issues facing teens today. Jill and Marc also discuss reframing self-care as daily moments of awe and joy, the need for healthy relationships with social media, and the powerful role of community and connection in healing.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.
Rising rates of anxiety and depression among teens and young adults aren’t just statistics—they’re real stories playing out in families every day. Dr. Mariela Podolski, a Connecticut-based child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, joins host Marc Lehman to explore the forces behind this trend and what parents, students, and communities can do about it. With more than 20 years of clinical experience, Dr. Podolski breaks down how instant gratification, phones, and “toxic positivity” affect mental health; why delayed gratification and frustration tolerance matter; and how parents can model wellness through sleep, nutrition, movement, and purpose. Packed with practical tips on managing devices, scaffolding self-care, and normalizing help-seeking, this conversation empowers families and young people to build the resilience they need for school, college, and beyond.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.
Body image and eating disorders aren’t just clinical issues; they’re lived realities shaped by culture, technology, and family life. Drawing on nearly 25 years in private practice, licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Emily Gordon explores how perfectionism, social media, and comparison culture amplify these struggles — and how parents can support teens and young adults without adding to the noise. She mixes practical strategies with warmth, showing how boundaries, honest dialogue, and tuning in to one’s inner experience can become powerful tools for resilience and healing.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.
Suicide loss support takes on a deeply human dimension in this conversation with Greg Kligman. He opens up about a decade on crisis lines and in survivor groups, explaining how empathy and presence help families carry the weight of traumatic loss. Listeners hear about the Survivor Support Program, why stigma and shame surround suicide, and how simple outreach can ease crushing isolation. Greg also shares the practices that protect his own wellbeing and offers practical ways anyone can contribute to a culture of compassion without burning out.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.
Daily practice is the foundation Scott Simons uses to transform health, mindset and leadership, and he believes it’s the most overlooked key to resilience. In this candid conversation, the professional speaker, wellness strategist and purpose-driven entrepreneur shares how a mentor helped him turn addiction into a life of service and how starting health instead of only stopping bad habits creates real freedom. He explains how simple, repeatable habits like breathwork, hydration and movement can reset stress, rebuild the nervous system and spark clarity. Scott also opens up about his “Be Human” initiative, which helps people reclaim higher ground and connect through shared humanity, and he offers practical tools for young adults, parents and leaders to stay grounded and thrive in everyday life.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.
Ever wondered how personal tragedy can ignite a powerful movement for change? Join us as we welcome Jake Miskin, the visionary screenwriter and producer behind the critically acclaimed film, Shattered Ice. Inspired by the heartbreaking loss of classmates to suicide during his own youth, Jake channeled his grief into a compelling narrative that tackles the unspoken complexities of mental health and community healing. In this profound conversation, Jake shares the deeply personal journey that led to Shattered Ice, a film designed to spark crucial dialogue, especially among young adults and athletes. Discover how storytelling can be a powerful tool for connection and why breaking the silence around mental health is more vital now than ever before.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.
Ever wondered what it really takes to face your deepest mental health struggles head-on and emerge stronger? Tune in for a powerfully honest conversation with Brian Talarczyk, author of I Am Not Bipolar. Brian shares his personal battle with mental illness, offering crucial insights on the importance of seeking help, navigating psychotic episodes, and reframing stress as a sign of growth. Discover his unwavering commitment to authenticity and how giving back to the community is integral to his own mental wellness journey. This episode is a testament to resilience, vulnerability, and the strength found in open dialogue.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.
What happens when raw musical talent meets relentless entrepreneurial drive? You get Shi Eubank. This week, we’re thrilled to feature the multi-faceted country rock artist who’s not only captivating audiences with his unique sound but also inspiring with his incredible life story. From his early days fronting Savage After Midnight to building eleven roofing companies and a sunglasses brand, Shi’s journey is a testament to unwavering determination. But beyond the impressive resume, you’ll discover a man deeply committed to authenticity, mental wellness, and giving back. Prepare to be inspired as Shi shares his unfiltered insights on personal growth, the power of music, and why embracing your true self is the key to unlocking limitless potential.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.
Fostering human connection and hope within schools is a vital step in addressing youth mental health. In this insightful episode, we delve into this critical topic with Greg Hudnall Jr., CEO of Hope Squad. We learn about Hope Squad’s innovative approach to empowering students to become active listeners and supportive peers, helping to normalize conversations around mental health and provide crucial connections. Greg shares his unique journey from corporate America to leading Hope Squad, inspired by his father’s dedication to suicide prevention, and discusses the alarming statistics surrounding youth suicide and mental health challenges. This conversation sheds light on the importance of peer-to-peer support, emotional awareness, and the need for communities to recognize and address mental health issues proactively. Greg also provides valuable resources, including HopeSquad.com, for schools and parents seeking to implement effective mental health support systems.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.
Redefining aging is about sparking joy and embracing every moment with infectious enthusiasm! This episode shines with the vibrant energy of Esther Brzezinski, a multi-talented actor, voiceover artist, and digital creator who’s showing the world that “Age is not my cage!” Hailing from Montreal, Esther’s got a booming online community—over 150,000 on TikTok and 110,000 on Instagram—all drawn to her authentic zest for life and message of positive aging. She’s not just lighting up social media; you’ll find her on screen in projects like “Jurnee’s Revenge” and “Goin’ Ape 2” and behind the mic producing podcasts, including her own “Esther’s Breeze.” Get ready for a chat filled with laughter and insightful nuggets as Esther spills the tea on self-care from the inside out, her adventures in raising neurodiverse kids, and how she’s smashing stereotypes one viral video at a time. This is an episode packed with inspiration, good vibes, and a reminder that life just gets better with age!Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.
Mental health and wellness are more than buzzwords; they’re the very foundation of a life lived fully and joyfully. In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, we journey into the core of well-being with Monica Wizinski, a masterful professional coach who’s made it her mission to help people reconnect with their authentic selves. With her deep expertise in conflict resolution and a remarkable talent for listening between the lines, Monica guides us through the complexities of modern life, particularly for young adults navigating a world that’s constantly buzzing. We discuss the significance of crafting a personal “village” of support, the art of slowing down amidst the chaos, and the undeniable truth that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s a necessity. Prepare for tangible advice on managing the noise, discovering real joy, and embracing the power of presence in a world that insists on speed. Monica illuminates the path to finding your inner center and cultivating a sense of peace that radiates outward, affecting every aspect of your life. If you’re seeking a way to anchor yourself in this whirlwind of existence and build a lasting sense of well-being, this episode is your compass to a more centered, vibrant, and truly healthy you.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.
Many teenagers these days, despite their interconnectedness through digital means, are suffering from social anxiety. Their mental health is not that well, and panic attacks are becoming all too frequent. Actor and screenwriter Olivia Healey shares how she uses her storytelling skills to help young people deal with these challenges and become more open to creating genuine relationships. She warns about the dangers of social media, particularly its adverse effects on teenagers’ social skills and awareness. Olivia also opens up about her own experiences with social anxiety and how she overcame these inner battles to unlock her fullest potential.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.
In a world where genuine connection can feel scarce, understanding the power of empathy and vulnerability becomes essential for mental health and wellness. In this episode, we dive deep into the transformative work of the Shoulder Check Initiative with founder Rob Thorsen, who shares the deeply personal story behind its inception and its mission to encourage authentic human connection. Rob explains how the foundation, inspired by his son Hayden, works to dismantle barriers to vulnerability and promotes checking in on one another as a powerful tool for mental well-being. Discover how their innovative approaches, including a unique emoji and community events, aim to create a world where “making contact” is not just a tagline, but a way of life. Join us as Rob reveals the simple yet profound message that everyone has a hand to give and everyone might need a hand, inspiring listeners to embrace vulnerability and build stronger, more supportive communities.Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.
There is so much stigma about mental health that most people refuse to talk about it. Brandon Saho uses his platform The Mental Game to invite people to embrace vulnerability and be comfortable with the uncomfortable. In this conversation with Marc Lehman, he shares how he hosts emotional interviews with athletes and celebrities to raise awareness about the seriousness of depression, anxiety, and trauma. Looking back on his own battle with suicidal thoughts, Brandon also emphasizes the importance of undergoing therapy and seeking support from people you trust.
In today’s highly digital and fast-paced world, kids have to deal with a ton of unnecessary distractions and pressure. Former NFL player Damian Gregory has been providing support to the underserved youth through his non-profit organization Gridiron G.A.N.G., helping them navigate the chaotic society and achieve profound success. In this conversation with Marc Lehman, he talks about his mission to guide the youth on overcoming the adversities of life, the pressures of social media, and the challenges of becoming an athlete. He also emphasizes the importance of taking care of your mental health, cultivating a resilient mindset, and finding stability in uncomfortable situations.
Let's talk about neurodiversity. It's not just a buzzword; it's about building a better future for work. Marc Lehman ignites a crucial conversation with Dr. Jen Hartstein, owner of Hartstein Psychological Services and co-founder of Mental Capital. This isn't your typical HR talk; Dr. Hartstein, an expert in child and adolescent psychology, is revolutionizing how companies embrace this concept. This episode dives deep: How do we move beyond surface-level awareness to truly attract, hire, and retain neurodiverse talent? Dr. Jen Hartstein provides the roadmap, empowering leaders to cultivate workplaces where every mind thrives, and innovation flourishes.
Mental health advocacy takes center stage in this compelling episode, where host Marc Lehman welcomes rapper Kenneth Erhahon, better known by his stage name, Shocka, a force within the grime scene and a passionate voice for this crucial cause. When rhythm meets reality, powerful voices emerge, and Shocka's is one of them. Beyond the beats and rhymes of his music, Shocka shares his deeply personal journey, revealing how his own experiences ignited a mission to advocate for others. This conversation uncovers the raw honesty of Shocka's artistry, his impactful efforts to raise mental health awareness, and the transformative power of using your voice for change.
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