Courage Speaks
Introducing ”Courage Speaks,” the new podcast presented by Courage to Connect Mental Health Center. Join your host, Sam Sherman, as he engages in insightful conversations with both his esteemed colleagues from Courage to Connect and external experts in the realm of mental health. Delve into a diverse spectrum of topics within the field, as each episode offers a unique exploration of pertinent subjects.
Episodes

Sunday Feb 18, 2024
Sunday Feb 18, 2024
Welcome to another stimulating episode of Courage Speaks, a journey into the captivating world of math anxiety featuring Dr. Molly Jameson, a renowned educator and researcher. In this insightful discussion, we delve into the nature and implications of math anxiety, exploring its profound influence on academic expectations, career prospects, and even daily life activities.
As an early observer of the emotional hurdles of math anxiety, Dr. Jameson has led pioneering research in this area, significantly focusing on children. Her acclaimed work has led her to develop internationally recognized tools to assess math anxiety, paving the way for appropriate interventions.
This episode includes profound discussions about societal stereotypes surrounding math talents, impacts of teachers' attitudes towards math, and coded language that encourages math avoidance. We explore noticeable early signs of math anxiety, providing teachers and parents with tools to address it proactively, while acknowledging that onset can happen at any stage of life.
Finally, Dr. Jameson shares her revolutionary approach for handling student math anxiety, emphasizing the critical role of 'self-efficacy'.
Join us as we deep dive into the world of Math Anxiety, unveiling strategies for reducing its impacts on student outcomes and promoting mathematical engagement in our thriving learners.

Sunday Jan 21, 2024
Sunday Jan 21, 2024
On Episode 7 of Courage Speaks, we sat down with Sara Reardon, an accomplished freelance journalist from Bozeman, Montana, known for her captivating stories that straddle the realms of science and society. Sara's journey, which began with research on mouse sperm and retinas, has evolved into a dynamic career in science journalism.
With contributions to renowned publications like Nature, New Scientist, and Science, just to name a few, Sara brings a global perspective gained from reporting on five continents and across the United States. Her expertise lies in illuminating the intricate connections between science, law, ethics, culture, and society.
We delve into Sara's outstanding piece on AI therapy chatbots in, as featured in Scientific American. Join us as we explore the potential risks and rewards of AI in providing therapy while considering the crucial importance of caution in this rapidly evolving field. Sara Reardon's insights promise to shed light on the promising yet nuanced landscape of AI-powered mental health support.
Sara Reardon
Courage To Connect

Sunday Dec 31, 2023
Sunday Dec 31, 2023
On Episode 6 of Courage Speaks, we have the pleasure of welcoming Amanda Stephans, the Assistant Clinical Director at Courage to Connect, as our guest. During this episode, Amanda delves into her journey that has brought her to her current role within the organization. She candidly discusses her approach to cultivating strong therapeutic connections with her patients and offers valuable insights into navigating the challenges of burnout in her profession. Be sure to stick around until the conclusion of the episode, where Amanda shares a bonus anecdote about her unique high school experience, attending a school where her father worked as a teacher.
Amanda Stephans Bio

Saturday Dec 09, 2023
Saturday Dec 09, 2023
Rae McDaniel is a leading LGBTQ+ advocate, therapist, and author, renowned for their dedicated support of transgender and non-binary communities. Their most recent literary creation, "Gender Magic," delves into the realms of identity and self-discovery, presenting a profound and transformative outlook on the concept of gender. Rae's commitment to advocacy extends well beyond their writing, encompassing dynamic workshops, impactful speaking engagements, and grassroots activism, all with the shared goal of fostering a more inclusive world. With their potent words and unwavering advocacy, Rae serves as a guiding light, igniting change and fostering understanding, making them a source of inspiration and hope for many.
Gender Magic
https://rae-mcdaniel.com/

Friday Nov 17, 2023
Friday Nov 17, 2023
On episode four of Courage Speaks we are joined by two outstanding women who have made a mark in the mental health field. Dr. Kailyn Bobb and Dr. Jazzmin Cohen share their unique journeys into mental health, their diverse backgrounds, and the deep friendship that has blossomed in their careers. Despite different paths and specialties, their shared passion for mental health advocacy has brought them together to make a profound impact. Discover what inspired them, the challenges they've overcome, and how their friendship strengthens their mission to make mental health support accessible to all.
Dr. Bobb-- Bio
Dr. Cohen-- Bio
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https://www.couragetoconnecttherapy.com/

Friday Oct 27, 2023
Friday Oct 27, 2023
On episode three of Courage Speaks, we speak to Mariela Ruiz-Angel, Director of the Albuquerque Community Safety Department. For the last two years, Mariela and her team have been reshaping the city's approach to behavioral and mental health-related 9-1-1 calls.
Before taking on her role as Director of ACS, Ruiz-Angel served as the City Coordinator for the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs (OIRA).
In her current position, leading the third branch of public safety, Ruiz-Angel is dedicated to overseeing the department's efforts in adhering to their mission of advocating for and fostering a citywide culture that appreciates and respects the voices of all residents.
More information about ACS can be found here
Courage Speaks theme music written and produced by John Merikoski
Halloween Music by @geoffharveymusic from Pixabay

Friday Oct 13, 2023
Friday Oct 13, 2023
On episode two of Courage Speaks, Senior Clinician at Courage to Connect, Erin Borton joined the show to talk about her years of experience working in the mental health field.
Erin discussed the stigmas around going to therapy for the first time, what she does to navigate the challenges of burnout, her "magic" question that she often utilizes with new patients, and so much more.
Enjoy episode two of Courage Speaks!
Erin Borton Bio

Sunday Oct 08, 2023
Sunday Oct 08, 2023
On episode two of Courage Speaks, Senior Clinician at Courage to Connect, Erin Borton joined the show to talk about her years of experience working in the mental health field.
Erin discussed the stigmas around going to therapy for the first time, what she does to navigate the challenges of burnout, her "magic" question that she often utilizes with new patients, and so much more.
Enjoy episode two of Courage Speaks!
Erin Borton Bio

Friday Sep 08, 2023
Friday Sep 08, 2023
In this episode of Courage Speaks we delve into the challenging topic of gambling addiction with Dr. Shane Kraus, a distinguished psychologist and addiction specialist.
Dr. Kraus brings his extensive expertise to the forefront as we explore the intricacies of gambling addiction. We delve into the psychological aspects of compulsive gambling, its far-reaching impact on individuals and their families, and the various treatment options available.
Join us in this enlightening discussion as we uncover the often-overlooked struggles faced by individuals grappling with gambling addiction. Whether you or someone you know is dealing with this issue, this episode provides essential information and a compassionate perspective, shedding light on the path to recovery and healing.
Resources:
https://www.ncpgambling.org/
Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER
Chat: 1800gamblerchat.org
Text: 800GAM
Illinois Council on Problem Gambling: https://illinoisproblemgambling.org/resources/