Shows
A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental HealthEpisode 15: Workplace Mental Health pt. 2In this follow-up to Episode 11, host Jessica Samuels continues her conversation with CMHA Kelowna's Director of People, Culture & Engagement, Candace Giesbrecht.The focus of this episode is burnout and its relationship to the workplace. Candace and Jessica dive deeper into what burnout looks like, how it manifests in professional environments, and how organizations and individuals can begin to address it.Topics Covered:- The definition and symptoms of burnout- How burnout differs from general workplace stress- The systemic and organizational contributors to burnout- What workplaces can do to...2025-06-1123 min
A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental HealthEpisode 14: Debt & Mental HealthIn this powerful episode, Jessica Samuels and Mike Gawliuk sit down with Maggie Sinclair from Beam Credit Union to unpack the current reality of debt in Canada—and the deep mental health impacts that often come with it. With household debt hitting record highs and many Canadians living just $200 away from insolvency, the conversation covers the emotional toll of financial strain, stigma, and the hard choices people are forced to make.Maggie sheds light on how seemingly small financial decisions—like “buy now, pay later” services—can spiral into overwhelming debt. Mike brings a mental health lens to th...2025-05-1425 min
A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental HealthEpisode 13: Managing Your Mental HealthIn this episode, hosts Jessica Samuels and Mike Gawliuk unpack what it really means to “manage your mental health” — and how that differs from managing mental illness. Together, they explore everyday actions, habits, and mindset shifts that can help anyone take better care of their mental well-being, with a strong focus on understanding why these strategies work. Key Topics Discussed:Mental Health vs. Mental Illness Learn the critical distinction between having mental health (which we all do) and having a mental illness (a diagnosable condition). You can flourish or struggle with mental health — whether or not yo...2025-05-0822 min
A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental HealthCrisis Response Community Led (CRCL) | Forward Focus #2 | A Way ForwardIn this Forward Focus episode, Jessica Samuels and co-host Mike Gawliuk shine a spotlight on CRCL – Crisis Response Community Led, formerly known as PACT.Jessica and Mike break down what CRCL is, how it works, and why this model matters now more than ever:What is CRCL?CRCL provides community-based, in-person mental health crisis support for individuals 13 years and older. It addresses issues like emotional regulation challenges and substance use crises, offering immediate support, connecting individuals to services, and providing follow-up care.Why the name change from PACT to CRCL?To re...2025-04-3004 min
A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental HealthEpisode 12: Mental Health & CaregivingIn Episode 12: Mental Health & Caregivers of A Way Forward Podcast | Presented by Beem Credit Union, hosts Jessica Samuels and Mike Gawliuk, CEO of CMHA Kelowna, explore the realities of mental health and caregiving. As millions of Canadians provide unpaid care to loved ones, the toll on caregivers—especially family caregivers—is growing. Jessica and Mike unpack new data, share personal stories, and offer guidance for those dealing with this often-invisible situation. Key Topics Discussed:Who is a caregiver? Defining the broad range of caregiving roles: professional, family, and volunteer caregivers.Th...2025-04-2325 min
A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental HealthEpisode 11: Workplace Mental HealthIn Episode 11: Workplace Mental Health of A Way Forward Podcast | Presented by Beem Credit Union, host Jessica Samuels is joined by Candace Giesbrecht, Director of People, Culture & Engagement at CMHA Kelowna, to explore what it means to have a mentally healthy workplace—and why it's a shared responsibility across the entire organization. They discuss how measuring psychological safety, addressing burnout, and making evidence-informed decisions can drive long-term culture change in the workplace.Key Topics Discussed:1. What Is a Mentally Healthy Workplace?Why it’s more than just a CEO or HR decl...2025-04-1435 min
A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental HealthCentral Okanagan Rent Bank | Forward Focus #1 | A Way Forward PodcastWelcome to the first episode of Forward Focus, our quick-hit, bit-sized episodes that gives you insight and information about the things you want to know.Today's episode focuses on the Central Okanagan Rent Bank. CMHA Kelowna believes that everyone has the right to safe and affordable housing. The rising cost of living means that there are many people who are only a paycheque or two away from not being able to pay their rent. When we can remove the stress of choosing between paying rent and paying for life’s necessities like food – an incredible burden is lift...2025-04-0204 min
A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental HealthEpisode 10: Housing First & Complex CareIn Episode 10: Why Supportive Housing Matters of A Way Forward Podcast | Presented by Beem Credit Union, hosts Jessica Samuels and CMHA Kelowna CEO Mike Gawiuk to discuss the critical role of supportive housing in addressing homelessness and mental health. They delve into key topics such as Housing First, complex care, and the broader systemic issues impacting affordable housing in Canada.Key Topics Discussed:1. Understanding Supportive HousingThe difference between Housing First and complex care.Why supportive housing is a crucial component in addressing homelessness.The role of wraparound services in housing...2025-03-2633 min
A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental HealthEpisode 9: Exploring CounsellingWelcome to Episode 9: Exploring Counselling of A Way Forward Podcast | Presented by Beem Credit Union. In this episode of A Way Forward, Jessica Samuels and CMHA Kelowna CEO Mike Gawliuk dive into the topic of counselling. They discuss when it might be time to seek counselling, what to look for in a counselor, and share helpful resources for those considering counselling. With personal insights and professional expertise, they explore the value of therapy as a tool for well-being.Key Discussion Points:Personal Journeys with CounsellingBoth Jessica and Mike share their personal experiences with seeking therapy.The...2025-03-1244 min
A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental HealthEpisode 8: Mental Health in Heavy TimesWelcome to Season 2 of A Way Forward, presented by Beem Credit Union. In this episode, hosts Jessica Samuels and CMHA Kelowna CEO Mike Gawliuk discuss strategies for managing mental health during turbulent times. With a 24-hour news cycle, social media, and ongoing global events, many people feel overwhelmed, anxious, and uncertain. Jessica and Mike explore how our bodies react to stress and share practical tips for maintaining mental well-being in the face of ongoing uncertainty.Key Discussion Points:1. How Are We Coping in a Heavy World?Mike and Jessica discuss their own experiences...2025-02-2623 min
A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental HealthEpisode 7: LonelinessIn Episode 7 of A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health, presented by Beem Credit Union, host Jessica Samuels sits down with CMHA Kelowna CEO, Mike Gawliuk to dive into the topic of loneliness—what it truly means, how it impacts us, and strategies to address it. They explore how loneliness isn’t just about being alone but can also occur within social groups where people feel disconnected. They also discuss its severe physical and mental health consequences, such as heightened risk of heart problems, depression, and even a shortened lifespan.The episode touches on loneliness in vari...2024-12-1824 min
A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental HealthEpisode 6: The State of Mental Health in CanadaIn Episode 6 of A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health, presented by Beem Credit Union, host Jessica Samuels sits down with Mike Gawliuk, CEO of CMHA Kelowna, to discuss findings from the State of Mental Health in Canada report. They delve into the report’s key insights, the challenges facing mental health care in British Columbia, and the steps needed to address these issues. From the toxic drug crisis to housing affordability, this episode highlights the pressing need for systemic change while exploring innovative approaches that offer hope for the future.Key Topics Discussed:Mental Hea...2024-12-0435 min
A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental HealthEpisode 5: Mental Health & The HolidaysIn Episode 5 of A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health, presented by Beem Credit Union, host Jessica Samuels is joined by Mike Gawliuk, CEO of CMHA Kelowna for a conversation on Mental Health & The Holidays. The holiday season brings unique joys and challenges. In this episode, we dive into practical strategies for managing mental health and well-being during a time of heightened expectations, consumerism, and emotional triggers. Key Topics Covered:1. High Expectations During the HolidaysThe "perfect holiday" narrative: Balancing societal pressure and personal priorities.Strategies for managing expectations:Focus on what the holidays m...2024-11-2036 min
A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental HealthEpisode 4: Men's Mental HealthIn Episode 4 of A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health, presented by Beem Credit Union, host Jessica Samuels is joined by Mike Gawliuk, CEO of CMHA Kelowna, for a discussion on men's mental health and suicide rates. Acknowledging the cultural and societal expectations surrounding masculinity, they explore how these norms contribute to the struggles men face when seeking help. This episode sheds light on alarming statistics, personal experiences, and the urgent need for more open conversations.Key Topics DiscussedThe Silent Crisis: An overview of the suicide rates in Canada, where approximately 75% of the 4,000 annual suicides...2024-11-0637 min
A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental HealthEpisode 3: Cost of LivingIn Episode 3 of A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health, presented by Beem Credit Union, host Jessica Samuels is joined by Mike Gawliuk, CEO of CMHA Kelowna, for a discussion on the cost of living and how it can affect one's mental health. This episode, Jessica and Mike explore how increased living expenses contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges, especially for vulnerable populations.Key Topics Discussed:The Connection Between Cost of Living and Mental Health:Highlighting the link between low incomes and mental illness, exacerbated by rising costs and interest rates.The psychological...2024-10-2426 min
A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental HealthEpisode 2: Housing & HomelessnessIn Episode 2 of A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health, presented by Beem Credit Union, host Jessica Samuels is joined by Mike Gawliuk, CEO of CMHA Kelowna, for a discussion on housing and homelessness. This episode sheds light on the complex web of issues surrounding homelessness and highlights the importance of proactive community support and resources. The discussion examines the many pathways to homelessness, and how experiencing homelessness can significantly impact a person's mental wellness. Resources and programs that can prevent individuals from becoming homeless, and that can support people to get back into housing are highlighted in...2024-10-0932 min
A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental HealthEpisode 1: Youth Mental HealthIn the first episode of A Way Forward Podcast: Conversations on Mental Health, presented by Beem Credit Union, Jessica Samuels covers the topic of Youth Mental Health with CMHA Kelowna CEO Mike Gawliuk and the need for more mental health resources and support for young people. The conversation focuses on the importance of early intervention and how providing mental health services sooner can have a lasting impact on youth as they transition into adulthood.Mike shares his expertise on the current state of youth mental health in Kelowna, emphasizing that many mental health struggles can be mitigated...2024-09-2541 min
A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental HealthA Way Forward - Podcast TrailerIntroducing A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health, hosted by Jessica Samuels in partnership with CMHA Kelowna, and presented by Beem Credit Union. In this short introduction episode, Jessica Samuels outlines that this podcast will focus on the issues that are wearing on our mental health and are impacting the wider community. She shares what to expect from each episode and promises to leave you feeling like you have...a way forward. 2024-09-1801 min
Conversations That MatterMental health, Movember and the impact of COVID-19For this episode, Sara Gouda and Jim Csek sit down with Jessica Samuels and Mike Gawliuk from the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) to discuss mental health misconceptions, ask question on men's mental health for Movember and discuss the impact of COVID-19 on people’s state of mind and well being.2021-11-1637 min
What Really Works? A Mental Health Podcast for Young PeopleEpisode 19: Overcoming Failure - Part 2In this follow-up episode, Beki and Olivia are joined by guest, Jessica, who talks about her own perspectives and experiences of failure, and how this has impacted her.
Listen to Overcoming Failure - Part 2 to delve further into the topic of failure and hear discussions about failure culture vs blame culture, why we might laugh at others when we see them ‘fail’, and how to start talking about failure with others, all while reclaiming the word ‘failure’.
Want to know more about Jessica? Jessica Samuels has two decades of experience in storytelling and engaging a...2021-03-0447 min