In this impactful episode of Hey Man; It's Ok, hosts Sky Bridges and Ryan Heapy dive deep into the critical issues surrounding men's mental health with special guest Mark Wigginton, an author and seasoned career coach. Mark offers a candid look into his personal and professional journey, including his experiences working in mental health within the criminal justice system and his later career as a licensed professional counselor. From discussing the staggering statistical realities of men's mental health issues to exploring the significance of radical acceptance and effective coping strategies, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and practical advice. Whether you're grappling with personal challenges or looking to support loved ones better, Mark's insights on navigating midlife transitions and fostering resilience will resonate profoundly. Tune in to understand the value of empathy, the power of acceptance, and the importance of continuous growth in mental health. 00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Welcome 00:55 Introducing Today's Guest: Mark Wigginton 05:50 Mark's Journey: From Military to Mental Health 07:43 The Impact of Working in Prisons 09:54 Reconnecting with Family 14:27 Lessons on Fatherhood and Mentorship 21:51 Coping Skills and Personal Struggles 23:46 Embracing Change and Harm Reduction 24:47 Mark's Fitness Journey: From Overweight to Ironman 25:43 Endurance Training and Life Changes 26:06 Coping Skills and Stability 28:16 Career Transitions and Coaching 29:54 Dealing with Depression and Introspection 30:38 Midlife Transition and Career Coaching 34:59 Radical Acceptance and Overcoming Challenges 43:59 Parting Words and Final Thoughts
In this powerful episode of Hey Man; It’s Ok, hosts Sky Bridges and licensed therapist Ryan Heapy sit down with Josh Cutler, an influential mental health professional and advocate for men’s emotional wellness.Josh opens up about his remarkable journey from a leader in the mental health field to facing his own bipolar disorder, depression, and recovery after a traumatic brain injury — and how those experiences transformed his understanding of healing, purpose, and connection.Together, Sky, Ryan, and Josh explore the power of vulnerability, community, and honest conversation, breaking down barriers that keep men silent about their struggles.From motorcycle rides for suicide awareness to psychedelic therapy training and the real-life stories that shaped him, Josh offers raw insight into both the clinical and deeply personal sides of mental health care.If you’ve ever wrestled with self-doubt, burnout, or the fear of opening up, this episode reminds you that it’s okay to not be okay — and it’s even stronger to talk about it.🎧 Tune in for a heartfelt, eye-opening conversation that blends professional wisdom with lived experience, inspiring hope for anyone on the path toward healing.🕒 Episode Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction and Welcome 00:20 – Meet Josh Cutler 04:29 – Josh’s Journey and Professional Background 16:06 – Challenges in Mental Health Access 21:14 – Josh’s Personal Struggles and Recovery 33:51 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this heartfelt episode of Hey Man; It’s Ok, Sky and Ryan sit down with Logan Petersen, one of the creators behind Dad Bods and Beards — a community redefining what it means to be a man today. Logan opens up about his journey with bipolar disorder, sharing the highs, lows, and pivotal moments that shaped his path toward healing and self-acceptance.Together, they explore what it really means to be strong — how vulnerability, honesty, and emotional awareness can coexist with resilience. From the power of proper diagnosis to the importance of support systems, sleep, and self-love, this conversation reminds us that asking for help isn’t weakness — it’s courage.If you’ve ever struggled with your mental health or wanted to better support someone who has, this episode is for you. It’s a raw, real, and deeply hopeful reminder that we’re all in this together — and it’s okay to not be okay.Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome & Introductions 01:16 Meet Logan Peterson: Social Media Influencer and Mental Health Advocate 03:52 Understanding Bipolar Disorder 05:56 Logan’s Personal Struggles and Turning Points 08:59 The Role of Support Systems in Mental Health 12:49 The Importance of Proper Diagnosis and Treatment 21:22 Logan’s Mission: Encouraging Men to Open Up 25:19 Trigger Management and Vulnerability 26:02 Early Steps in Healing 26:46 The Importance of Sleep 27:28 Direct Communication and Therapy 28:26 Affirmations and Self-Love 30:48 Setting Boundaries and Accountability 31:31 Stories of Struggle and Resilience 34:36 Authenticity and Social Media 41:15 Dad Bods and Beards: A New Masculinity 49:24 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
In this powerful episode of Hey Man; It’s Ok, Sky and Ryan sit down with authors Jim and Bela, whose book We All Die - Healthcare Insiders Pull no Punches on Our Failed System. Together, they unpack how money, policy, and burnout have shaped a system that often forgets the human beings it’s meant to serve.Through honest conversation, they explore the emotional toll on both patients and providers, the impossible choices families face, and the need for a complete reimagining of how we approach care in this country. Jim and Bayla share personal stories, eye-opening data, and hopeful ideas for rebuilding a system centered on compassion, equity, and mental well-being.If you’ve ever felt frustrated, unseen, or overwhelmed navigating healthcare—or you simply care about creating a system that truly helps people—this one’s for you.0:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:32 Overview of the Book and Healthcare System Critique02:37 Healthcare System Failures and Comparisons05:21 Mental Health and Systemic Issues09:05 Challenges in the Healthcare Profession12:40 Personal Experiences and Career Reflections16:39 The Need for Systemic Change22:21 Grassroots Efforts and Future Outlook23:58 The Healthcare System's Breaking Point24:09 Comparing Global Healthcare Models24:32 The Need for a Complete Redesign25:14 Political and Cultural Influences25:50 Employment Tied Healthcare Issues26:29 Healthcare as a Business27:29 Physician Compensation Dilemmas29:43 The Cost of Medical Education32:08 Potential Solutions and Influencers37:00 The Role of Big Pharma40:31 Mental Health in the Healthcare System43:57 Final Thoughts and Call to Action
Join hosts Sky Bridges and Ryan Heapy as they dive into a riveting conversation with Saul Spady, An ad agency owner and political activist. Saul shares his inspiring and challenging journey, from his passionate activism in tackling homelessness to his personal experiences with mental health and the often harsh political landscape. This episode offers an in-depth look at the nuanced and often controversial issues surrounding social policies, while advocating for a more empathetic and kind approach towards all. Tune in for a candid conversation about personal resilience, public service, and the importance of maintaining one's mental well-being in the face of adversity.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:37 Saul Spade's Background and Early Activism01:30 Challenges and Controversies in Activism04:53 Homelessness Solutions and Advocacy09:21 Political Pushback and Public Perception14:23 Broader Political and Social Commentary24:21 Empathy and Rational Opposition29:25 Personal Reflections and Political Journey30:30 Mental Health and Personal Growth33:32 Impact of Political Beliefs on Relationships35:43 Navigating Political and Social Challenges40:06 Engaging with the Community46:00 Final Thoughts and Call to Action
In this deeply moving episode of Hey Man; It’s Ok, hosts Sky Bridges and licensed psychotherapist Ryan Heapy welcome author and coach G. Scott Graham for a conversation about grief, healing, meditation, and radical acceptance.Scott opens up with raw honesty about losing his spouse during the COVID-19 pandemic and how writing about his grief became a way of honoring love. He also shares his unique adventures with paddleboarding with dogs, the myths surrounding happiness, the role of equanimity, and how embracing adversity can lead to a more authentic life.This episode is a powerful reminder that grief and love are deeply connected, and that resilience often comes from radical acceptance.⏱️ Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Hey Man, It’s Okay 00:18 Meet G. Scott Graham 00:44 Paddleboarding with Dogs 03:03 Grieving the Loss of a Spouse 09:47 Love, Grief, and Healing 16:09 The Myth of Happiness 20:36 Understanding Equanimity 24:00 Navigating Emotional Turmoil 25:14 Radical Acceptance Explained 28:34 Why Radical Acceptance Matters 31:23 Meditation: Myths vs. Reality 33:20 The Challenge of Consistency 39:25 Instant Gratification vs. Growth 441:52 Closing Thoughts + How to Connect with Scott
In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Hey Man; It’s Ok, Sky and Ryan a licensed therapist open up about survival, shame, and resilience.For the first time, Ryan shares the full story of his suicide attempt 12 years ago—a moment that nearly ended his life but ultimately reshaped his purpose. From his days as a VIP host in Las Vegas nightlife, through years of chronic pain and dependency on prescription opiates, to the miraculous survival of a gunshot that should have killed him—Ryan’s journey is one of struggle, healing, and hope.Together, Sky and Ryan explore what it means to confront shame, embrace vulnerability, and find new meaning in life after loss. This episode isn’t just about survival—it’s about what happens next, the power of connection, and why it’s never too late to rewrite your story.💬 If you or someone you know is struggling, please know you’re not alone. Resources are available. 📌 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (U.S.): Dial 98800:00 Introduction and Hosts' Backgrounds00:40 Sky's Journey: From Nightlife to Despair02:35 The Struggle with Chronic Pain and Opiates05:38 A Miraculous Survival11:12 Reflecting on the Past and Moving Forward15:24 The Impact of Sharing Personal Stories21:39 The Path to Becoming a Therapist23:16 Living with Severe Mental Illness23:46 Helping a Roommate in Need24:26 Inspiration to Make a Change24:56 Challenges in Treatment Centers26:17 Meeting the Angry Therapist27:21 Journey to Becoming a Therapist28:18 Reflecting on the Journey32:43 The Importance of Sharing Stories39:45 Advice for Aspiring Therapists41:34 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude
In this thought-provoking episode of 'Hey Man; It's Okay' - A men's Mental Health Podcast, hosts Sky and Ryan Heapy welcome Randy Lyman, the self-proclaimed Spiritual Cowboy. Randy shares his transformative journey from being a left-brained physicist to embracing the emotional and spiritual dimensions of life. He discusses how spirituality helped him overcome depression, the importance of understanding and integrating emotions, and the role of intuition in leadership and personal growth. The conversation delves deep into the challenges and rewards of embracing one's vulnerability and emotional wounds to find true inner strength and love. Join us for an enlightening discussion that touches on mental health, the law of attraction, and the balance between masculinity and emotion. #MentalHealth #Spirituality #EmotionalHealing #Leadership #Intuition #Vulnerability #PersonalGrowth #Mindfulness #SelfCare #InnerStrength00:00 Introduction and Host Greetings00:15 Ryan's Spiritual Journey01:38 Introducing Randy Lyman: The Spiritual Cowboy01:50 Randy's Transformation from Physicist to Spiritual Seeker04:09 The Power of Emotions and Intuition05:48 Randy's Epiphany and Emotional Release07:31 The Third Element: Thoughts, Body, and Emotions11:50 Embracing Pain for Healing17:32 Vulnerability and Leadership19:28 Ryan's Leadership Challenges and Lessons23:09 The Importance of Intent and Apology24:01 Turning the Other Cheek: Finding Forgiveness28:03 Healing Through Gratitude and Journaling30:31 Embracing Vulnerability and Love39:39 Balancing Masculine and Feminine Energies44:26 Parting Thoughts and Resources
Welcome to a new episode of Hey Man, It's Okay, your go-to mental health podcast. Hosted by Sky and psychotherapist Ryan from Newport Beach, California, this episode features special guest Vanessa Morgan, an experienced couples therapist. Delve into the intricacies of modern relationships, the impact of social media, emotional intelligence, and communication skills. Vanessa shares her insights on maintaining humility as a therapist, the importance of attunement, and practical tips for men and women to strengthen their relationships. Don't miss this comprehensive discussion on how to cultivate meaningful connections and why now is the best time to seek therapy for relational growth. #MentalHealth #CouplesTherapy #EmotionalIntelligence #RelationshipGoals #CommunicationSkills #MentalHealthAwareness #RelationshipAdvice #TherapistTips #SelfGrowth #EmotionalWellbeing
In this episode of Hey Man; It's Ok, hosts Sky and licensed therapist Ryan Heapy welcome guest Emily Pabst, the owner of remaketherules.com and creator of the R.O.A.R. method. Emily discusses her work in helping people integrate digital information tools into their decision making, particularly in the realms of executive leadership, small business owners, and online dating. The conversation explores the complexities of modern relationships, societal adaptability to rapid technological changes, and the importance of intentional decision making. Emily also shares insights into the psychological aspects of her work and the ethical considerations around emerging technologies like AI.00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Welcome00:21 Introducing the Guest: Emily Pabst01:05 Emily's Expertise in Digital Information Tools01:49 Impact of Technology on Relationships03:59 Challenges of Online Dating06:13 Emily's Journey and Professional Background08:01 Psychological Aspects of Digital Interaction13:41 The Future of AI in Therapy16:17 Ethical Considerations in Technology Use17:56 Strategies for Effective Online Dating22:13 The ROAR Method for Decision Making24:34 The Impact of Small Choices in Dating Patterns25:40 The Problem of Too Many Choices26:30 Insights from Experts on Dating Algorithms27:29 The Role of AI in Modern Dating27:54 Designing Personal Interactions with Technology28:22 Challenges in Achieving Compatibility29:40 The Importance of Core Beliefs and Values32:28 The Complexity of Human Decision Making37:02 Navigating Uncertainty in Modern Life37:33 The Role of Radical Acceptance38:35 The Influence of Information Overload42:06 The Average vs. The Individual43:26 Client Adaptability and Trust45:18 Conclusion and Contact Information
In this episode of 'Hey Man, It's Ok,' hosts Sky and Ryan Heapy are joined by Kody Green, a motivational speaker, mental health advocate, comedian, and author. Kody shares his experiences living with schizophrenia, his motivations for becoming an advocate, and the importance of communication and support systems. The discussion touches on the stigma surrounding schizophrenia, the role of medication, coping mechanisms, and the need for better mental health resources both inside and outside the prison system. Kody also talks about his new book 'Minds Over Meetings,' which provides insights for both individuals struggling with mental health and employers. To connect with Kody, visit KodyGreen.com, or find him on social media under the username @SchizophrenicHippie on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. His book 'Minds Over Meetings' is available on Barnes & Noble, Amazon, and his website.
In this episode of 'Hey Man; It's Ok,' hosts Sky Bridges and Ryan Heapy dive deep into the unique world of men's mental health, focusing on the experiences and challenges of living in the Pacific Northwest. Special guest Scott Losse, a Seattle-based standup comedian and internet sensation, shares his intriguing journey from being a relatively unknown figure to gaining viral fame. The discussion covers a range of topics including the pressures of internet celebrity, the importance of anonymity, and the mental health struggles specific to the region. Scott also talks about his unexpected rise to internet fame, the impact on his personal life, and the quirky, endearing qualities of Pacific Northwest culture. This episode is packed with humor, insight, and heartfelt moments, offering listeners a fresh perspective on balancing mental health in the age of social media fame.00:00 Introduction and Hosts00:41 Meet Scott Losie: Comedian and Internet Personality01:15 The Journey to Internet Fame02:51 Dealing with Newfound Recognition06:00 Balancing Anonymity and Public Life14:52 Positive Outcomes of Viral Fame19:43 Engaging with Fans and Community25:01 Creating Content and Overcoming Challenges27:59 Pacific Northwest Quirks30:25 Struggles with Seasonal Depression30:52 Finding Motivation in the Winter31:07 The Impact of Weather on Creativity31:53 Coping Mechanisms and Community Support33:56 The Unique Character of the Pacific Northwest34:29 Navigating Social Media and Sarcasm36:25 Balancing Personal and Professional Life37:08 Exploring Seattle's Pike Place Market39:13 Podcasting and Personal Connections40:33 The Beanie Collection and Merchandise42:38 Political Neutrality and Mental Health48:16 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell
Welcome to another insightful episode of Hey Man; It's Ok! In this episode, Skyeand licensed therapist Ryan Heapy discuss crucial topics about men's relationships, intimacy, and confidence with special guest Matt Cook—a relationship and sex researcher who has helped over 80,000 men and couples. Matt shares his personal journey of overcoming autoimmune disease and erectile dysfunction (ED), and how these experiences propelled him into a career in health and sex coaching. The conversation delves deep into the impact of porn on men's mental health, the benefits of building oxytocin in relationships, the importance of non-sexual physical intimacy, and effective strategies for boosting confidence and connection. Whether you're struggling with ED or seeking stronger, more fulfilling relationships, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice. Tune in and transform your love life!00:00 Welcome to the Men's Mental Health Podcast00:36 Introducing Today's Guest: Matt Cook01:04 Matt Cook's Personal Journey and Expertise03:04 The Impact of Porn on Men's Mental Health09:58 Navigating Modern Relationships and Dating24:46 The Importance of Flirting and Physical Connection30:16 Understanding Female Orgasms31:23 The Benefits of Delayed Gratification31:59 Physical Escalation and Relationship Building33:36 Overcoming ED and Embracing Intimacy39:39 The Power of Scheduling Sex44:43 The Impact of Sexual Energy on Success51:53 Concluding Thoughts and Resources
Join hosts Sky and Ryan Heapy on this episode of 'Hey Man, It's Okay,' a Men's Mental Health Podcast, as they speak with David Baker, judge of 'Forged in Fire.' David shares his insights on using blacksmithing as a therapeutic outlet for mental health struggles, discussing the cathartic power of creating historical weapons. He emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and expressing emotions, building a support network, and learning from each other's experiences.The episode touches on themes of grief, societal expectations, isolation, and the value of connection and support among men. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation about resilience, creativity, and mental well-being.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:08 David Baker's Disclaimer and Wisdom02:33 The Therapeutic Power of Forging06:50 History and Craft of Bladesmithing08:32 David's Journey in the Entertainment Industry11:25 Mental Health and Personal Growth21:59 The Importance of Relationships28:35 Challenges of Modern Men31:58 Life Falling Apart32:22 The Importance of Dealing with Loss34:36 Building a Support Network36:03 The Power of Sharing and Listening38:16 Isolation and the Need for Connection41:20 Struggles with Depression46:37 The Harsh Inner Critic50:10 Balancing Success and Mental Health55:39 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
In this episode of 'Hey, Man, It's Okay,' hosts Sky Bridges and Ryan Heapy delve into the transformative power of the Enneagram. They are joined by special guest Joel Hubbard from The Art of Growth, who shares his personal and professional journey with the Enneagram, highlighting its impact on his life and career. Joel also offers insights into how different personality types and instincts affect relationships and personal growth. Tune in to learn more about taking agency over your life and how the Enneagram can be a roadmap to personal development. 00:00 Introduction to the Hosts 00:44 Special Guest: Joel Hubbard 01:44 Joel's Journey with the Enneagram 04:47 Understanding the Enneagram's Impact 08:04 Personal Growth and Career Changes 11:39 Instincts and Relationships 14:37 Men and Mental Health 21:47 The Epidemic of Loneliness 26:04 Connecting with Men in Coaching 28:33 The Challenge of Competency 31:43 The Enneagram as a Roadmap to Growth 33:08 Integrating Enneagram with Psychology 37:24 Therapy and Personal Growth 45:14 Faith and Personal Agency 49:17 What's Next for The Art of Growth? 51:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this episode of 'Hey Man, It's Okay,' hosts Sky Bridges and Ryan Heapy discuss men's mental health and general well-being with a licensed psychotherapist and special guest Dr. H. introduces his recent successful foray into TikTok as a soccer expert. The discussion delves into often unspoken issues like men's use of pharmaceuticals, supplements, and the stigma around openly discussing mental health and medication side effects such as erectile dysfunction. Dr. H underscores the importance of advocating for one's health at the doctor's office and discusses the concept of the 'prescribing cascade' in the elderly. The conversation shifts to the gut-brain connection, the role of nutrition and exercise in mental health, the benefits of a low to no carb diet, and the future of GLP-1 medications for weight loss. Dr. H also shares insights on environmental wellness, spirituality, and his new book, 'The Seven Pillars of Wellness.' The episode concludes with a call for men to be open about their mental health and promote self-advocacy.
In this enlightening episode of 'Hey, Man, It's Ok' hosts Sky Bridges and Ryan Heapy kick off the new season with a special guest, Dr. Ryan Lee. Specializing in helping individuals recover from high-control religions and cults, Dr. Ryan shares his personal journey and professional insights into religious trauma. The conversation delves into the BITE model of authoritarian control, the intense emotional and social challenges faced by those leaving these groups, and the ultimate potential for personal rebirth and growth. A must-watch for anyone seeking to understand or recover from the grips of restrictive religious environments. 00:00 Welcome to Hey, Man, It's Okay! 00:26 Introducing Dr. Ryan: A Journey Through Religious Trauma 01:03 Understanding High Control Religions and Cults 04:51 The BITE Model: Breaking Down Control Mechanisms 11:06 Personal Stories of Religious Trauma 15:42 The Emotional Toll of Leaving a High Control Group 22:09 The Power of Shame and Social Connections 25:47 The Reluctance to Return 26:46 Comparing High Control Groups to Abusive Relationships 28:10 The Impact of Isolation 28:36 The Journey of Self-Discovery 29:54 Manipulative Tactics in High Control Groups 30:59 Narcissism and High Control Groups 32:41 The Spectrum of Control 35:43 Embracing Emotional Freedom 41:47 The Therapeutic Journey 44:02 The Role of Information in Breaking Free 45:57 Final Thoughts and Resources
Hey Man; It’s Ok is a raw and real men’s mental health podcast where we break the silence and stigma around what it means to struggle—and to heal. Hosted by Skyler Bridges and licensed marriage and family therapist Ryan Heapy, we dive deep into the conversations most guys don’t feel like they can have, tackling everything from anxiety and depression to relationships, self-worth, and personal growth.This isn’t just another self-help podcast—it’s a space where vulnerability meets humor, where real talk happens without judgment, and where you’re reminded that no matter what you’re going through, you’re not alone. Because, hey man, it’s ok.
Join us for the season finale of "Hey Man; It's Ok" as we reconnect with several of our unforgettable guests from Season 2 for a heartfelt and insightful discussion. In this special episode, we catch up on their lives since they last appeared on the podcast and dive into a broader conversation about mental health, support, and community.Our guests open up about their personal growth, challenges they've faced, and triumphs they've celebrated since sharing their stories with us. Together, we explore how the journey of mental health is ongoing and ever-evolving. This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of staying connected and supporting one another through life's ups and downs.Tune in for an engaging and candid conversation about resilience, mutual support, and practical ways to be there for each other. Whether you're a longtime listener or new to the podcast, this season finale offers valuable insights and inspiration on fostering a compassionate and supportive community.Johnny Nava @HeresJohnnyNavaGlobal Kristen @global_KristenAuthentic On Air: Bruce Alexander @impulsivebruceHMIO Team: Dillon Faulkner @stitch_tecMan Therapy: Eric Jones @ericjonesconsultingSports Pharmacy Podcast: Dr. H @doctormixalot Ryan Heapy @RyanWHeapy
In this inspiring episode of "Hey Man; It's Ok," we sit down with Jaycee, a close friend of co-host Ryan Heapy, who is currently pursuing her LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist) degree at Pepperdine University in LA. Jaycee shares her incredible journey from a high-powered Hollywood publicist to a dedicated therapist-in-training.Join us as we explore the pivotal moments that led Jaycee to make such a profound career change, the challenges she has faced along the way, and the rewards of following her passion for mental health. Jaycee offers valuable insights into the world of therapy, the importance of mental well-being, and the unique perspective she brings from her previous career in the entertainment industry.Whether you're interested in mental health, considering a career change, or just love a good story of personal transformation, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice. Tune in to hear how Jaycee is making a difference in the lives of others and learn why it's never too late to follow your dreams.