While the oft-cited statistic is that “1 in 5” people suffer from mental illness, the reality is conversations about mental health are relevant and important to everyone — 5 in 5 people. 

In this discussion, panelists share their personal experiences along with stories others have shared, in order to expand and normalize a productive mental health conversation. 

About the panelists:

Eric Kussin (@SameHere_Global) 

Eric is a 20-year pro sports executive who was fortunate enough to find a higher calling after an intense mental health battle. He launched a global alliance of athletes and celebrities, along with expert practitioners: We’re All A Little “Crazy,” and the #SameHere Global Mental Health Movement.

Rachel Baribeau (@RachelBaribeau)

Rachel Joy Baribeau is a former national sportscaster who travels the US speaking on mental health, joy, courage, and discovering purpose and passion. She’s the author of Relentless Joy and host of the Joystarters podcast. Learn about her work: https://www.imchangingthenarrative.org/ 

Stacey Gonzales (@staceypacer) 

Stacey Gonzales, Ed.D. co-founded Soul Growth after a successful 20-year career leading some of the nation’s largest school districts. She is host of Build in Public Daily on the Be Podcast Network, a show that details her experiences building her new company in public, right before your eyes. Subscribe on Apple or Spotify. 

Make sure to subscribe to this series to hear more panel discussions focused on mental health awareness. Visit https://bepodcast.network to learn about 20+ shows covering education and learning at all levels. Visit https://belouga.org to learn more about Belouga.

We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. 

IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:

• Simplify and streamline technology
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• Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
• Improve student performance on state assessments

🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.