In the powerful finale of the Nobody’s Perfect x @spkourminds 6-part series, we sit down with Matt Cook, President & CEO of the Children’s Hospital Association (CHA), the national voice for over 200 children's hospitals across the country. With decades of leadership and front-line experience, Matt brings a bold vision for tackling the youth mental health crisis at scale. We dive deep into: - State funding opportunities: How governors and legislatures can tap into Medicaid and block grants to expand mental health services for kids. - Maximizing Medicaid/EPSDT: Policy strategies to ensure every eligible child benefits from the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment program. - Policy priorities: Which legislative changes—from tele-health parity to reimbursement reform—could truly turn the tide. - Innovation in care: The potential of tele-health, real-time data sharing, and digital tools to reach more youth earlier. - Advocacy playbook: Concrete steps listeners can take—from contacting state reps to joining advocacy coalitions—to drive EPSDT improvements. Finally, we explore the hopeful future of youth mental health: what it could look like if we invest wisely, innovate boldly, and commit to equity. This episode is both a wake‑up call and a rallying cry—it’s a roadmap for change. #youthmentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #epsdt #medicaidmatters #childrenshospitals #nobodysperfect #speakourminds #healthcareinnovation #suicideprevention
Episode 5: The Power of Learning Health Networks with Dr. Dan Hyman & Dr. Peter Margolis Hosted by Jason Hopcus and Heidi Baskfield of @spkourminds How do we create systems that actually learn from the people they serve? In this powerful episode, we explore how Learning Health Networks (LHNs) are transforming the landscape of youth mental healthcare through connection, data, and collaboration. Jason and Heidi sit down with two national leaders in the field—Dr. Dan Hyman and Dr. Peter Margolis—to unpack the promise of LHNs in improving Medicaid-funded care. From breaking down traditional silos to uniting families, providers, and policymakers, this episode offers a clear roadmap for what’s possible when we treat healthcare like a shared mission. What you’ll learn: - What a Learning Health Network is—and why it matters now more than ever - Real-world examples of LHNs driving measurable change - How state and federal funding can be used to scale solutions that work - What it takes to build a Learning Health Network for youth mental health from the ground up This is more than a conversation—it’s a call to action. 🎙️ Listen now to learn how LHNs can help us build a smarter, more connected future for youth mental health. #medicaidmatters #LearningHealthNetworks #youthmentalhealth #speakourminds #nobodysperfect #JasonHopcus #mentalhealthinnovation
In this eye-opening episode of the Nobody’s Perfect podcast, host Jason Hopcus and co-host Heidi Baskfield of Speak Our Minds are joined by pediatric mental health expert Dr. Sandy Fritsch to explore the deep systemic failures preventing children from receiving the mental health care they’re entitled to through EPSDT (Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment).Despite federal mandates, countless kids across the country are still slipping through the cracks.Together, they unpack:The most common barriers to accessing EPSDT-covered mental health servicesThe impact of inconsistent state implementation and red tapeWhy provider awareness is often lacking—and how to fix itHow social determinants of health further limit careWhat families, providers, and advocates can do to fight for better outcomesDr. Fritsch brings clinical expertise, while Heidi speaks as a passionate policy advocate. The result is a must-listen conversation that blends heart, systems knowledge, and real tools for change.If you’re a parent, clinician, policymaker, or anyone committed to youth mental health, this episode is a crucial listen.🎧 Tune in, share widely, and help us speak the truth: Nobody’s Perfect—but every child deserves the care they were promised.
Medicaid’s best-kept secret? EPSDT.In this episode of Nobody’s Perfect, hosts, Jason Hopcus and Heidi Baskfield of Speak Our Minds join policy powerhouse Jocelyn Guyer to break down one of the most powerful—but least understood—tools in youth mental health: the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) benefit.We unpack:What “Early,” “Periodic,” “Screening,” “Diagnostic,” and “Treatment” really mean—and why each word mattersHow EPSDT ensures medically necessary, individualized care for youthWhy EPSDT isn’t just good policy—it’s cost-effective and underutilizedWhich states are leading the way—and where there's room to growWhat system changes could unlock EPSDT’s full potentialWhether you're a parent, policymaker, educator, or provider, this episode will change how you see Medicaid—and the future of youth mental health care.🎧 Tune in now and share with someone who needs to hear it. #MedicaidMatters #EPSDT #YouthMentalHealth #NobodysPerfectPodcast
We LOVE Medicaid—and by the end of this episode, you just might too.In Episode 2 of our special 6-part series on youth mental health, we sit down with Aimee Ossman, Vice President of Policy at the Children’s Hospital Association, to explore how Medicaid—often misunderstood and undervalued—is actually one of the most powerful tools we have to support young people’s well-being.This episode unpacks what Medicaid really is (hint: not just "insurance for poor kids"), how it ensures access to essential mental health care for nearly 40 million children, and what’s at stake if we don’t protect and improve this lifeline.You’ll learn:Why Medicaid is misunderstood—and why that mattersWhat makes it different from traditional insuranceHow it opens the door to behavioral health services without needing a diagnosisWhat would happen if Medicaid weren’t there for kidsHow states play a critical role in ensuring equitable accessWhat changes could make Medicaid work even better for youth mental healthHosted by Jason C. Hopcus (Nobody’s Perfect Community) and Heidi Baskfield (Speak Our Minds), this honest and hopeful episode is a must-listen for anyone working to build a better future for our youth.
Across six powerful episodes, Heidi Baskfield of Speak Our Minds and Jason Hopcus of Nobody’s Perfect join forces to break open one of the most misunderstood — yet profoundly important — resources for youth mental health: Medicaid, and its hidden gem, EPSDT (Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment).Together, they invite listeners into a dynamic and solution-focused journey to answer one urgent question: If Medicaid and EPSDT are designed to help kids thrive, why are so many still falling through the cracks?In Episode One, Heidi and Jason lay the foundation by introducing themselves, unpacking what Medicaid really is, and explaining why EPSDT is considered the most comprehensive child health benefit in the country — yet is almost entirely unknown to most Americans. They explore how this series aims to change that, not through abstract policy talk, but by spotlighting real stories, elevating voices of experts and families, and catalyzing system-wide collaboration through a model known as the Learning Health Network.Each subsequent episode dives deeper, featuring frontline experts, policymakers, caregivers, and change-makers who put a fine point on the issues — and possibilities — behind EPSDT. From demystifying bureaucracy and advocating for policy reform to showcasing community-driven solutions and technological innovations, this series is a call to awareness, action, and ultimately, transformation.Whether you're a policymaker, provider, parent, or advocate, this series will empower you to understand the system, challenge its shortcomings, and become part of a collective force for better mental health care for every child.Tune in. Speak up. And help unlock the potential of Medicaid to truly serve our nation’s youth.
What if discipline didn’t mean punishment, but instead, connection? In this episode of Nobody’s Perfect, Jason Hopcus sits down with Zac Hess—educator, Veteran, and Restorative Practices leader—to explore how schools can shift from punitive systems to ones built on empathy, accountability, and healing. With experience ranging from teaching incarcerated youth to leading district-wide change, Zac shares practical strategies and inspiring stories that show how relationships—not rules—are the foundation of safe, inclusive learning environments.Whether you’re a parent, educator, or student advocate, this conversation offers a powerful look at how we can better support youth and transform school culture—one relationship at a time.🎧 Tune in now and discover how restorative practices are changing lives and schools for the better.
Vaping among youth is on the rise, but how much do we really know about its impact? In this episode of Nobody’s Perfect, Jason Hopcus is joined by Alissa Huff and Ashley Scollard, Community Health Educators for the Douglas County Health Department, to uncover the hidden dangers of youth vaping.We dive into why kids start vaping, the role of stress and peer pressure, and how the industry targets youth to get them hooked. We also explore the accessibility and concealment of vaping products, the physical and mental health risks, and why vaping is more than just "flavored smoke." Plus, we discuss prevention efforts, non-punitive approaches to education, and how parents can foster open, judgment-free conversations with their children.From environmental concerns to resources for cessation, this episode is packed with essential insights for parents, educators, and anyone supporting youth. Tune in to learn how we can work together to combat this growing issue and empower young people to make healthier choices.
Teen dating can be exciting, but it also comes with challenges—especially when it comes to setting healthy boundaries. In this episode of Nobody’s Perfect, host Jason Hopcus sits down with Anne Connolly, Executive Director of the Douglas County Healthy Youth Coalition, to discuss the importance of boundaries in teen relationships. We’ll explore key topics like: ✅ Recognizing the signs of healthy vs. unhealthy relationships ✅ Identifying red flags and warning signs of dating violence ✅ How parents, caregivers, and educators can support teens in setting boundaries ✅ Steps young people can take to build relationships based on trust, respect, and open communication This conversation is essential for teens, parents, and anyone passionate about fostering safe and supportive relationships. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to help spread awareness! For more valuable mental health resources, visit: www.nobodysperfect.community #TeenDating #HealthyBoundaries #MentalHealth #Nobody’sPerfectPodcast
In this episode, Jason Hopcus dives into the challenges of raising resilient kids in a tech-driven world with Dr. Andrea Maikovich-Fong, a board-certified clinical health psychologist and behavioral health expert. Dr. Maikovich-Fong shares invaluable insights on how parents can help their children set healthy digital boundaries, navigate the pressures of social media, and protect their mental health from the stresses of constant connectivity.Learn how to teach your child to set limits with kindness, respond to digital bullying, and build self-esteem in an increasingly digital world. Dr. Maikovich-Fong also discusses the importance of open communication and modeling healthy digital habits to create lasting, positive relationships with your kids.If you’re a parent looking for practical advice to support your child’s well-being in the digital age, this episode is a must-listen!
In this inspiring episode of the Nobody’s Perfect podcast, host Jason Hopcus sits down with the newly crowned Miss Colorado 2024, Alexandra Lotko. Alexandra is not only a dedicated educator pursuing her Master’s in Elementary Education but also a passionate mental health advocate. Through her Community Service Initiative, “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay,” Alexandra is on a mission to destigmatize mental illness and encourage people to seek help without fear or shame.In this heartfelt conversation, Alexandra opens up about her own mental health journey, how it shaped her advocacy, and her commitment to creating safe spaces in her community. As a future teacher, she discusses her plans to integrate mental health awareness in the classroom and shares strategies for using social media to amplify her message. Whether you're looking for inspiration or practical advice on how to prioritize mental health, this episode offers valuable insights from a leader who understands the importance of compassion and support.Join us as we explore Alexandra’s journey, her vision for a more understanding world, and what "nobody’s perfect" truly means to her.
In this episode of the Nobody’s Perfect podcast, Jason Hopcus sits down with Dr. Jennifer Kelloff, a board-certified pediatrician and child abuse specialist, to discuss the lasting effects of childhood trauma and adversity. Dr. Kelloff, Medical Director of Child Abuse Pediatrics and Prevention at Kaiser Permanente Colorado, shares insights on trauma-informed care, the importance of resilience, and how parents can better support their children’s emotional well-being. Tune in to learn practical strategies for helping kids thrive, even in the face of adversity.
In this episode of the Nobody's Perfect podcast, Jason Hopcus sits down with Miss Teen Colorado, Maddie Coombes, to discuss her inspiring and life-saving Community Service Initiative, Fentanyl Free Futures. At just 16 years old, Maddie has witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of the fentanyl crisis, with several peers and community members losing their lives. Determined to prevent further tragedy, Maddie launched her initiative to educate students, parents, and teachers about the dangers of fentanyl, a drug 100 times more potent than morphine.Maddie shares how her work extends beyond the classroom, leveraging social media through her "Fentanyl Free Fridays" campaign to spread awareness about fentanyl’s hidden dangers. In addition to education, Maddie is working to make Narcan, a life-saving overdose reversal drug, more accessible in Colorado communities. Tune in to learn how Maddie is using her platform as Miss Teen Colorado to fight for a Fentanyl Free Future and save countless lives through education, advocacy, and action!
In this powerful episode of Nobody's Perfect, host Jason Hopcus sits down with Aimee Resnick, a passionate advocate for mental health and co-founder of the Colorado Alliance for Size Equity. Aimee, a third-year student at Northwestern University, has already made a significant impact by co-authoring and passing three legislative acts focused on upstream mental health promotion. Drawing from her personal experience with an eating disorder, Aimee shares her journey of recovery and how it inspired her to take on weight-based discrimination and champion health at every size.Together, Jason and Aimee explore the often-overlooked consequences of eating disorders, the importance of changing societal attitudes, and how policies can drive meaningful change. Aimee also reflects on her involvement with the Colorado Youth Advisory Council and the critical role education and advocacy play in preventing and addressing eating disorders, especially in the wake of the pandemic.Tune in for an inspiring conversation with a young trailblazer whose personal battles have fueled a vision for creating systemic change in mental health.
In this episode of Nobody's Perfect, Jason Hopcus sits down with Marccus Spearman, a leader dedicated to transforming school environments in Denver Public Schools. As a first-generation graduate and former assistant principal, Marccus shares his journey of implementing Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and Restorative Practices, leading to dramatic reductions in suspensions and classroom referrals. Now, as the Manager of Trauma-Informed Restorative Practices, Marccus continues to shape safe, inclusive, and supportive spaces for over 90,000 students and 14,500 staff members across 207 schools. Listen to learn how his work fosters a culture of belonging and positively impacts the entire school community.
Welcome to Nobody’s Perfect, a community dedicated to supporting and empowering youth and families.This podcast episode features therapist Dr. Denzel Wilson. Host, Jason Hopcus, and Dr. Wilson delve into the profound impact of technology on teens. They discuss how technology has changed teen behavior and mental health, shedding light on common misconceptions parents might have about their teens' tech use. Dr. Wilson also provides valuable advice on balancing technology use with healthy boundaries, along with identifying warning signs that technology might be negatively affecting a teen's well-being.This important episode explores the role of technology in facilitating cyberbullying and discusses strategies for prevention. Additionally, Dr. Wilson highlights some of the positive effects of technology on teen development, which often go overlooked.Listeners will gain practical advice and insights. Parents and caregivers, join the conversation and support teens in understanding and managing technology in their lives.
This Nobody's Perfect podcast features guest, Dara Erck, the Founder of SAM+LEO, a brand committed to enhancing teen mental health through specially formulated gummy vitamins. Dara's extensive background in global health strategy and her passion for mental health advocacy have fueled her mission to support the well-being of teenagers. In this episode, Dara shares her inspiration for creating SAM+LEO, the mental health challenges teenagers face today, and how her products address these issues. She also delves into how her professional background has influenced her approach to tackling the youth mental health crisis and shares the science behind her specially formulated gummy vitamins. Listeners will gain valuable insights into essential strategies for improving mental health support for young people and Dara's vision for the future impact of SAM+LEO on youth well-being. Don't miss this enlightening conversation. Listen and learn more at www.nobodysperfect.community #TeenMentalHealth #SAMandLEO #Wellness #Teenvitamins #supplements
Nobody’s Perfect recognizes that making smart financial decisions can drastically increase our independence and quality of life while decreasing daily stress. Unfortunately, many teens and young adults lack the resources and information needed to save and spend money wisely.To support the financial health of our youth, Nobody’s Perfect sat down with Red Rocks Credit Union’s CEO, Darius Wise. Join the powerful conversation between Darius and our own Jason Hopcus as they explore the vital connection between financial stability and mental health. This episode aims to educate both youth and parents on the benefits of understanding finances and how financial health plays a crucial role in overall mental wellness.Don’t miss this insightful discussion! Learn more at www.nobodysperfect.community/podcasts/
The illusion that teens today somehow ‘have it easier’ is cloaked in misinformation and stereotypes, mainly because teens decades ago didn’t share the same struggles that youth manage today. Between fitting in, performing well academically, understanding identities, and familial tensions, each of these realities often exist simultaneously and at varying intensities. Monica Crnogorac, Academic and Executive Skills Life Coach for Study Spot Educational Services, joins Nobody’s Perfect host Jason Hopcus as a guest on the podcast for a powerful discussion on anxiety and its impact on youth. Monica, who experienced bullying at a young age, has leveraged her journey in service to others by educating and equipping youth with skills that guide them on a journey to self-empowerment. Monica’s conversation with Jason reveals just how much more intentional we can be with reaching youth at a young age to prevent anxiety from evolving into bigger mental health concerns. Visit nobodysperfect.community for more mental health content, including clinically-approved resources and tools aimed at supporting you on your journey to self-empowerment, and follow Nobody’s Perfect on social media for updates and more info.
Even when we’ve achieved great success, we can still face struggles we may have never even realized we had. And when we do, sometimes the lessons they teach us become more than just wake-up calls: they can become the reason we decide to lead healthier, more purposeful lives. Former running back for the Wisconsin Badgers and Denver Broncos, proud father, published author, coach, and clinical outreach manager Montee Ball joins Jason Hopcus on the latest episode of Nobody's Perfect. The two-time All-American, who played alongside Peyton Manning when the Denver Broncos won the Super Bowl back in 2016, speaks with Jason about his journey with substance abuse and his experience with alcoholism as early as high school. Join Jason and Montee for an authentic and honest conversation that elevates the realities of being a teen in today’s world and how we can better support youth struggling with substance abuse and the demands of everyday life. Visit nobodysperfect.community for more mental health content, including clinician-approved resources and tools aimed to support you on your journey to self-empowerment, and follow Nobody’s Perfect on social media for updates and more info.