Mental Health News Radio

In this episode of Mental Health News Radio, host Kristin speaks with the co-hosts of the Unspoken Grief podcast and core members of the nonprofit Impacted Survivors of Murder-Suicide: Michael Vinton, Kristina Faulkner, and Tina Chevalier. Each of these advocates is also a survivor. Through deeply personal stories of loss, they illuminate what it means to live with—and speak from—the aftermath of murder-suicide. Together, they discuss the realities of grief shaped by stigma, media distortion, and silence, and how their work offers a space where no one is made to feel responsible and no one has to grieve alone. Topics include:How peer-led grief work meets needs that clinical spaces can missNavigating shame, survivor guilt, and the unanswered “why”Media boundaries and narrative reclamationThe fire of advocacy as part of post-traumatic meaning-makingBuilding bridges for others while still healing yourselfThis is a compassionate, trauma-informed, and clinically valuable conversation for survivors, therapists, and anyone walking alongside someone who has experienced complex grief. Learn more at www.impactedsurvivors.org.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mental-health-news-radio--3082057/support.

What happens when a mother sees her son not as an individual, but as an extension of herself? In this powerful episode, we dive into the hidden dynamics between narcissistic mothers and their sons—and how this enmeshment can shape identity, independence, and relationships for decades.Author and psychotherapist Christine Louis de Cannonville joins us to explore the making of a so-called “mama’s boy,” the long shadow of emotional manipulation, and the pathways to freedom. From enmeshment and silenced voices to the liberating act of reclaiming one’s power, this conversation is both a mirror and a map.You’ll hear stories of sons who struggled under the weight of their mother’s control, the painful impact on their partners and families, and a breakthrough moment on the beach where a blocked voice finally found release. Christine shares how spiritual and therapeutic practices—like shamanic journeying and boundary work—can help survivors reconnect with their essence, reclaim their voice, and step into authentic adulthood.This episode isn’t about blaming mothers. It’s about recognizing the patterns, breaking the cycle, and moving forward with compassion, clarity, and self-love.Christine Louis de Cannonville is a psychotherapist, author, and educator specializing in the treatment of narcissistic abuse. Known for her compassionate yet direct approach, she has written extensively on the dark triad, shame, and recovery from narcissistic relationships. Christine blends trauma-informed therapy with spiritual and shamanic practices to help clients reclaim their voice and their power. Her work has supported countless survivors worldwide in moving from trauma to transformation.Learn more about her work at www.narcissisticbehavior.netBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mental-health-news-radio--3082057/support.

In this episode of Mental Health News Radio, host Kristin Sunanta Walker sits down with Eddie Francis — marketing and communications consultant, broadcaster, and speaker — to explore what true ethical leadership looks like in today’s world. From his New Orleans roots to 30+ years in radio, Eddie shares candid stories of growth, self-awareness, and evolving into “Evolved Eddie.” Together, they dive into leadership as a process, the impact of workplace culture, and how mental health and purpose intertwine with professional life. Learn more about Eddie’s work at www.eddiefrancis.com.Eddie Francis is a leadership enthusiast, speaker and marketing/communications consultant who holds a master’s degree in strategic leadership from Tennessee State University where he researched the effects of narcissistic leadership on followership. A native of New Orleans, Eddie hosts the personal leadership podcast For Our Edification and the talk radio show, The Way Forward, on WBOK in New Orleans.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mental-health-news-radio--3082057/support.

Dr. Melinda Edwards—psychiatrist, author, and founder of the nonprofit Living Darshan—returns to share her deeply personal and professional journey through autism, motherhood, and spiritual healing. In this intimate conversation, she explores the sacred sensitivity of autistic individuals, the evolution of human consciousness, and how our deepest wounds often become the doorway back to love.Dr. Edwards’ book, Psyche and Spirit: How a Psychiatrist Found Divinity Through Her Lifelong Quest for Truth and Her Daughter’s Autism, is available on Amazon and other platforms. Learn more or support her mission at: 🌐 www.livingdarshan.orgContact and book info: melindaedwardsmd.com This episode is for anyone walking the liminal spaces—between diagnosis and identity, between healing and creation, between being witnessed and becoming whole.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mental-health-news-radio--3082057/support.

Our most popular and listened to guest for over a decade! Join Christine Louis de Canonville for a discussion about her newest book, The Ghost in the Machine: Unmasking the Hidden Psychology of Narcissistic Abuse. This will be done as a series for this podcast and also for Christine's YouTube channel. Today we go in depth about Narcissistic Mothers and their Daughters.                                      .Christine Louis de Canonville, B.A. (Hons) Theology & Psychology, MIACP, MSIACP, CMH, CHyp, MPNLP. Christine is a recently retired psychotherapist and clinical supervisor living in Dublin, Ireland. She is also an author, a professional trainer, and international speaker, a lecturer, workshop facilitator and was an external examiner. She worked in the area of mental health and trauma recovery for over 35 years, providing psychotherapy to children and adults for a range of life issues, including Addictive Behaviours, Anxiety, Anger, and Relational Issues. For 5 years, she worked in the Trauma Unit of St. Brendan’s Psychiatric Hospital under the watchful eye of the eminent Professor Ivor Browne. In 1995 she set-up her own private clinical practice where she now specialises in Narcissistic Abuse Recovery.www.narcissisticbehavior.netBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mental-health-news-radio--3082057/support.

Our most popular and listened to guest for over a decade! Join Christine Louis de Canonville for a discussion about her newest book, The Ghost in the Machine: Unmasking the Hidden Psychology of Narcissistic Abuse. This will be done as a series for this podcast and also for Christine's YouTube channel. Today we go in depth on Chapter 17: INTERMITTENT REINFORCEMENT:                                         The Cruel Dance that Keeps Victims Trapped in the Abuser's Unpredictable Cycle.                   .Christine Louis de Canonville, B.A. (Hons) Theology & Psychology, MIACP, MSIACP, CMH, CHyp, MPNLP. Christine is a recently retired psychotherapist and clinical supervisor living in Dublin, Ireland. She is also an author, a professional trainer, and international speaker, a lecturer, workshop facilitator and was an external examiner. She worked in the area of mental health and trauma recovery for over 35 years, providing psychotherapy to children and adults for a range of life issues, including Addictive Behaviours, Anxiety, Anger, and Relational Issues. For 5 years, she worked in the Trauma Unit of St. Brendan’s Psychiatric Hospital under the watchful eye of the eminent Professor Ivor Browne. In 1995 she set-up her own private clinical practice where she now specialises in Narcissistic Abuse Recovery.www.narcissisticbehavior.netBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mental-health-news-radio--3082057/support.

Our most popular and listened to guest for over a decade! Join Christine Louis de Canonville for a discussion about her newest book, The Ghost in the Machine: Unmasking the Hidden Psychology of Narcissistic Abuse. This will be done as a series for this podcast and also for Christine's YouTube channel. Today we go in depth on Chapter 3: Navigating the Spectrum of Narcissism:              From Unhealthy Self-Absorption to Healthy Self-Actualisation.Christine Louis de Canonville, B.A. (Hons) Theology & Psychology, MIACP, MSIACP, CMH, CHyp, MPNLP. Christine is a recently retired psychotherapist and clinical supervisor living in Dublin, Ireland. She is also an author, a professional trainer, and international speaker, a lecturer, workshop facilitator and was an external examiner. She worked in the area of mental health and trauma recovery for over 35 years, providing psychotherapy to children and adults for a range of life issues, including Addictive Behaviours, Anxiety, Anger, and Relational Issues. For 5 years, she worked in the Trauma Unit of St. Brendan’s Psychiatric Hospital under the watchful eye of the eminent Professor Ivor Browne. In 1995 she set-up her own private clinical practice where she now specialises in Narcissistic Abuse Recovery.www.narcissisticbehavior.netBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mental-health-news-radio--3082057/support.

In this episode, I’m joined by the dynamic duo behind the Spark Launch Podcast—Chaya Mallavaram and Mike Cornell. Chaya is a tech entrepreneur, professional artist, and founder of Spark Launch, where she helps create transformative spaces for neurodivergent learners. Mike is a peer support specialist and lifelong creative who brings a raw, honest voice to mental health advocacy. Together, they’ve launched Spark Launch—a podcast that dives deep into the lived realities of neurodivergent life. From parenting and executive dysfunction to emotional regulation, identity, and creativity, their conversations are as real as they are healing. We talk about why they created this show, how they balance vulnerability with humor, and their shared mission to help others feel less alone. Whether you’re neurodivergent yourself or supporting someone who is, this conversation is a reminder that imperfection holds power—and every brain carries a spark worth launching. 🌀 Learn more at sparklaunchpodcast.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mental-health-news-radio--3082057/support.

Join Kristin, Toni and Melinda for a deep dive into the world of Autism, ADHD, and neurodivergence experiences in Buddhist communities. Toni Boucher started working with individuals on the spectrum over 35 years ago as a foster care and emergency respite provider.  As the director of the CARE Clinic where she provided autism evaluations and determined eligibility for The South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs- Autism Division, she discovered the need for further research and information about females on the spectrum and began training professionals how to identify and support neurodivergent women. Her book Autism Translated is the result of the wisdom and insights her clients have shared with her throughout these years. Today Toni is a speaker, writer and consultant. She runs numerous social groups and programs for teens and adults on the spectrum and coaches high-achieving adults. She is the founder of The Creative Community and Career Center for Autism, where members help each other thrive in a safe, sensory friendly environment. www.toniboucher.net and www.neurodiverse.com MELINDA EDWARDS, MD is a mother, writer and physician in Charleston, South Carolina. She attended medical school at the Medical University of South Carolina and completed her residency in psychiatry at Stanford Medical Center. She has studied complementary and alternative medicine with Andrew Weil, MD, researched the effects of MDMA on PTSD with Michael Mithoefer, MD, and is a columnist for Autism Parenting Magazine. Dr. Edwards is the author of the amazon best-seller Psyche & Spirit: How a Psychiatrist Found Divinity Through Her Lifelong Quest for Truth and Her Daughter’s Autism.As a child of medical missionaries, Dr. Edwards grew up in a Mayan Indian village in Guatemala, Central America. Early in life she experienced an inner pull to a deeper truth. Her journey has taken her through various spiritual practices, including meditation retreats, guidance from spiritual teachers, travel to India, and living in spiritual communities. Her quest led to the ongoing discovery of the sacred in all. Inspired by her journey with her daughter Saachi, Dr. Edwards founded the 501c3 nonprofit organization Living Darshan to foster a deeper understanding of autism in the world.www.melindaedwardsmd.comwww.livingdarshan.orgBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mental-health-news-radio--3082057/support.

Our most popular and listened to guest for over a decade! Join Christine Louis de Canonville for a discussion about her newest book, The Ghost in the Machine: Unmasking the Hidden Psychology of Narcissistic Abuse. This will be done as a series for this podcast and also for Christine's YouTube channel. Today we go in depth on Chapter 2: DECODING THE DILEMMA AND TAKING CONTROL:              Navigating "Should I Stay or Should I Go."     Christine Louis de Canonville, B.A. (Hons) Theology & Psychology, MIACP, MSIACP, CMH, CHyp, MPNLP. Christine is a recently retired psychotherapist and clinical supervisor living in Dublin, Ireland. She is also an author, a professional trainer, and international speaker, a lecturer, workshop facilitator and was an external examiner. She worked in the area of mental health and trauma recovery for over 35 years, providing psychotherapy to children and adults for a range of life issues, including Addictive Behaviours, Anxiety, Anger, and Relational Issues. For 5 years, she worked in the Trauma Unit of St. Brendan’s Psychiatric Hospital under the watchful eye of the eminent Professor Ivor Browne. In 1995 she set-up her own private clinical practice where she now specialises in Narcissistic Abuse Recovery.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mental-health-news-radio--3082057/support.

Join Sarah Taylor and Kristin as they discuss the journey that neurodivergent women embark on in life! Sarah is an intuitive energy healer and awakening trail guide, helping folks find their way back home. But years ago, she was an anxious, atheistic insomniac. Plus, she was an undiagnosed neurodivergent woman, having a hard time finding her place in the world. So the idea of finding the “peace that passeth all understanding” was unthinkable! Simply wanting to get a better night’s sleep, and to be a little less angsty, she began seriously practicing Buddhism (Theravada, Mahayana, Dzogchen and Mahmudra). She took to the teachings immediately, and much to her surprise, began to undergo a series of profound inner shifts known as nondual awakening. Around 2011 there was the first of several radical — and now, abiding — shifts in consciousness. At that time, she began spontaneously channeling a transmission that has been a catalyst for many people deepening on their spiritual path. This transmission has changed through the years. Especially as unity consciousness/oneness/nonduality — and what is beyond — eventually began unfolding.www.LightOfYourBeing.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mental-health-news-radio--3082057/support.

Our most popular and listened to guest for over a decade! Join Christine Louis de Canonville for a discussion about her newest book, The Ghost in the Machine: Unmasking the Hidden Psychology of Narcissistic Abuse. This will be done as a series for this podcast and also for Christine's YouTube channel. Enjoy this episode via YouTube: https://youtu.be/gdUnzIUN1E8?si=SJA_X06mjZYehgFCChristine Louis de Canonville, B.A. (Hons) Theology & Psychology, MIACP, MSIACP, CMH, CHyp, MPNLP. Christine Louis de Canonville is a recently retired psychotherapist and clinical supervisor living in Dublin, Ireland. She is also an author, a professional trainer, and international speaker, a lecturer, workshop facilitator and was an external examiner. She worked in the area of mental health and trauma recovery for over 35 years, providing psychotherapy to children and adults for a range of life issues, including Addictive Behaviours, Anxiety, Anger, and Relational Issues. For 5 years, she worked in the Trauma Unit of St. Brendan’s Psychiatric Hospital under the watchful eye of the eminent Professor Ivor Browne. In 1995 she set-up her own private clinical practice where she now specialises in Narcissistic Abuse Recovery.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mental-health-news-radio--3082057/support.

Amy Armstrong is our guest and in her work she helps parents and break through conflict with heart-centered, fool-proof boundaries.  Amy is a licensed social worker and entrepreneur, Amy has spent over a decade navigating the intersection of mental health and domestic law. She is the founder amd director of The Center for Family Resolution, Amy leads a team of skilled coaches who specialize in groundbreaking parenting and co-parenting solutions trusted by domestic courts in Ohio and beyond. She also directs The Center for Coach Development, an ICF-accredited program that is a game-changer for professionals seeking to elevate their career, evoke life-changing outcomes and gain global recognition as expert coaches.This June Amy was invited to work with social workers in Gaza and Isreal on conflict resolution. I can't think of anyone better to be there and to help us navigate this ever changing landscape called planet earth! www.thecenterforfamilyresolution.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mental-health-news-radio--3082057/support.

Join Kristin and Melanie as they discuss one of the most stigmatizing areas of mental health: Borderline Personality Disorder. Melanie Goldman (She/Her) is a leading light in the field of mental health advocacy and helps fight on behalf of those with borderline personality disorder (BPD) based in Toronto, Canada. Melanie has spent the majority of her life working in the music industry, and she has earned a degree in psychology. After realizing she needed to fend for herself after being in a hospital ten years ago. Melanie, who has been diagnosed with BPD and ADHD, decided three years ago that she wanted to use both her music and her Master’s degree to help others with the disorders. She went to work and researched everything about BPD after her diagnosis and found the appropriate medical professionals, treatments, and community resources; she then took the next step and began directly aiding communities, gradually coming to understand that her story could help save countless lives. She has volunteered for multiple groups and helped many people find the resources they need.Melanie has been a guest on a number of podcasts from backfromtheborderline to BPDBRAVERY and is a cast member of the YouTube TV series theBPDbunch. Melanie is a trained peer facilitator for 2 non-profits and is currently a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying). Since the general public has a skewed conception of BPD within the mental health system, Melanie has many far-reaching ambitions for the mental health communities and BPD, including the establishment of her own Center for BPD. Melanie's sister Jackie and her grandmother who has passed away Rae suffered from BPD and bipolar disorder, and Melanie hopes everyday to help others find their own “Rae of light” as her Grandmother’s name was Rae and hopes to carry this name forward with love and keep the legacy alive.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mental-health-news-radio--3082057/support.

Dr. Kyra Bobinet joins us to talk about her passion for healing the world of failure disease. She is a passionate advocate for healing the world of failure that leaves us stuck in knowing what to do but not being able to do it. As a physician, public health leader, healthcare executive, and behavioral expert, she has passionately studied our human battle with failure and relapse for decades. She finally found the brain-based source of our struggles and a way to work with our brain to be free of limitations. Through her life’s work helping many thousands to get and stay healthy, she is 100 percent convinced that neutralizing failure and liberating our motivation and joy is our biggest opportunity to reduce suffering.Unstoppable Brain: The New Neuroscience that Frees Us from Failure, Eases Our Stress, and Creates Lasting Changehttps://drkyrabobinet.com/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mental-health-news-radio--3082057/support.

Join Kristin and Kimberly for a conversation about addiction recovery in the hospitality industry. The challenges faced when you work around all or some of your major addiction triggers.Kimberly Flear is a passionate advocate for change within the hospitality industry, combining over two decades of experience with a personal journey through addiction recovery. As the founder of Last Call Coaching, Kimberly is dedicated to fostering healthier workplace environments through enhanced understanding and support for individuals facing addiction. Having witnessed the harsh realities of addiction firsthand—notably through the loss of a close friend to an overdose—Kimberly has been driven to apply her extensive industry knowledge to combat this pervasive issue. Her approach is deeply informed by her own experiences as a person in recovery, offering a unique, empathetic perspective that resonates with both individuals and teams. Kimberly is not only an inspired speaker but also a certified coach, trainer, and facilitator. Her presentations are rooted in a profound understanding of the biological, psychological, and social facets of addiction. She focuses on practical strategies for resilience and recovery, emphasizing the need for stigma-free communication and safe, supportive workplace policies. As a speaker, Kimberly brings these issues to life with compelling clarity and heartfelt sincerity. She is available for speaking engagements across conferences, workshops, and panel discussions, particularly those aimed at transforming the hospitality industry. Her talks delve into the complexities of addiction, the power of recovery, and the critical role of supportive workplaces. Additionally, Kimberly is available for interviews and can provide valuable insights on creating positive change within high-pressure environments. Her expertise makes her an ideal candidate for media appearances, offering depth and guidance on issues related to addiction in the hospitality sector. Organizations looking to enhance their approach to employee wellness will find Kimberly’s training and facilitation skills invaluable. She offers customized coaching sessions designed to equip managers and employees with the tools needed to support colleagues through recovery and beyond, ensuring a safer, more inclusive workplace.www.lastcallcoaching.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mental-health-news-radio--3082057/support.

Join Kristin and Gaile as they discuss how difficult it can be, depending on where you live, to find Autism resources for your family. Gaile Valcho is originally from New York and has an MBA from Florida Atlantic University. She is a wife and mom to a teenage autistic boy. She has over a decade of experience in the autism community and is certified in Master IEP training. Gaile and her husband founded The Brady Valcho Autism Foundation in 2022 to help families in her community find much-needed resources and provide scholarships to families for autism summer camps. She and her husband are also the founders of The Holly Springs Autism Acceptance Day Event held each fall. Part of the foundation’s mission is to provide free autism training to first responders and area businesses to help others engage with the autistic population. Gaile enjoys spending time with her family, running, and traveling. Her favorite quote is by Ruth Bader Ginsburg. ~“Fight for things you care about. But do it in a way that will lead others to join you.”  https://bva.foundation/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mental-health-news-radio--3082057/support.

Join Kristin from Mental Health News Radio and Jeremy from Nuero FM as they discuss how "unhelpful" a small part of the world of Autism can be when we try to narrate and judge other people's experiences. For those of us diagnosed later in life, we have an entire experience with many years to unpack. We will say things "incorrectly" according to ????  So why not let everyone enjoy and speak about their journey with Autism in their own words? Once you find your peeps, life gets even more hopeful, helpful, and fabulous!Jeremy Rochford is a later-in-life diagnosed Autistic/ADHD’r who is raising two Neurodivergent Children with his “NT” wife, Charity. Through guest interviews and “Team Rochford,” you’ll hear firsthand the challenges and benefits of being on the spectrum and practical advice for those who are Neurodivergent or love someone who is. Join us and experience why “NeuroFm” is called the least depressing Neurodivergent podcast in the world.https://www.jeremyrochford.com/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mental-health-news-radio--3082057/support.

Join Kristin and Jenilee to discuss parenting with children on the Autism Spectrum. As a professional life coach and autism coach, Jenilee brings lived experience, problem-solving skills, compassionate support, and creativity into each coaching session. Jenilee asks hard questions while listening, guiding, and coaching clients in their unique life situations. Through one-on-one coaching and group coaching, Jenilee uses the Equipping Profile, book studies, and individual homework to establish personal development plans, helping clients move forward and reach goals in healthy ways. With many in her immediate family on the autism spectrum, Jenilee has a special place in her heart for moms of kids on the spectrum and NT wives going through the difficulties of ND marriages. There are very few places to share the full story. In coaching with Jenilee, you can share every single page of the story. Along with coaching, Jenilee loves reading, writing, coffee, walking, and watching history documentaries. You can connect with Jenilee daily on Instagram @jenileerachel or through her website, jenileerachel.com.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mental-health-news-radio--3082057/support.

David Bartley has a story to share, and we get right into it! Join us for an intense but cathartic conversation about David's journey with suicidal ideation and his mental health. David Bartley is known as a dynamic speaker, storyteller, and trainer. With real-life anecdotes that evoke laughter and tears, David informs and captivates audiences. Along the way, David provides insights that enable listeners to see mental illness from a different point of view; a fresh perspective that creates an opening for mental wellness for those who suffer, their family, friends, and members of the community where they live, work and fellowship. Through keynote and other group presentations, interactive workshops, and specialized training programs and seminars, David helps unravel the myths and flat-out lies surrounding mental illness. Once laid to rest, David substitutes fiction with truth and reality and then equips audiences with tools and resources that lead to greater understanding. David’s goal for each speech and workshop is the same: to shed light on the issue of mental illness, teach others how to create hope, and open doors to the possibility of mental health for all.www.davidwoodsbartley.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mental-health-news-radio--3082057/support.