Shows
Courage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep. 29: Finding the Right Frequency: Dan Dietrich’s Journey to CounselingJoin Sam Sherman, host of Courage Speaks, for episode 29, featuring a conversation with Dan Dietrich, a therapist at Courage to Connect. Dan shares his remarkable journey from being a radio host in rural Alaska to pursuing a career in therapy, guided by a long-ignored inner voice suggesting he would make a great counselor.
Discover how Dan navigated major life transitions, explored the connection between mind, body, and spirit, and embraced the power of curiosity and courage in the healing process. This episode delves into the stories of resilience, the importance of following one's true calling, and the...
2025-05-121h 00
Courage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep. 28: The Power of Vulnerability, Connection and Friendship with Brian RayIn this episode of Courage Speaks, host Sam Sherman welcomes his long-time friend and future Courage to Connect clinical intern, Brian Ray. Together, they delve into Brian's journey into the field of mental health, highlighting personal experiences and the pivotal moments that shaped his path. This conversation is not just about career choices, but also about the profound impact of friendship and the role of vulnerability and trust in personal and professional relationships. Listeners are invited to explore what it truly means to be seen and accepted, and how these dynamics manifest in everyday life and therapeutic settings. Join...
2025-04-211h 04
Courage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep. 27: NFL Veteran Matt Skura's Journey from Undrafted Free Agent to Mental Health AdvocateOn episode 27 of Courage Speaks, host Sam Sherman sits down with Matt Skura, NFL veteran and mental health advocate. Matt shares his journey from being an undrafted free agent in the NFL to becoming a powerful voice in breaking down mental health stigmas.
The conversation delves into Matt's time in the NFL, the challenges he faced, including severe injury, and his personal battle with mental health following his father's suicide. Matt emphasizes the importance of vulnerability, intentionality, and community in overcoming life's hurdles.
You'll be inspired by Matt's dedication to using his platform to foster...
2025-03-301h 00
Courage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep.26: Speaking of Change: A Conversation with Rep. Lindsey LaPointe on Mental HealthIn this episode of Courage Speaks, host Sam Sherman sits down for a heartfelt and insightful conversation with Representative Lindsey LaPointe, a passionate advocate and dedicated legislator from Illinois. With a background in social work, Rep. LaPointe shares her personal journey and deep commitment to bridging the gap between mental health, advocacy, and policy.
Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities in expanding mental health access, breaking down barriers in behavioral health care, and ensuring first responders get the support they need. Rep. LaPointe opens up about her legislative efforts to make mental health care more accessible...
2025-03-0951 min
Courage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep.25: Turning Pain into Purpose: Jared Lurie's Story of Resilience and GrowthOn episode 25 of Courage Speaks, host Sam Sherman dives deep into the journey of Jared Lurie, Clinical Director of Operations at Courage to Connect. Jared opens up about his personal experiences with mental health from a young age, sharing how a significant medical diagnosis in college became a pivotal turning point in his life. His recovery and the role therapy played in it became the catalyst for his career as a therapist.
Listeners gain insight into how Jared skillfully balances his professional responsibilities, managing both clinical and administrative tasks at Courage to Connect. He shares the profound...
2025-02-1552 min
Courage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep.24: The Wonderful Marissa Kaelter Returns to Courage Speaks!On Episode 24 of Courage Speaks, we invited Marissa Kaelter, a therapist from Courage to Connect, for her second insightful conversation on the podcast. The episode delves into Marissa's profound insights on play therapy, exploring its significance in helping children open up in a welcoming environment. Marissa also shares valuable advice for parents and educators on finding the balance between granting teenagers autonomy and setting necessary limits.
Beyond her therapeutic insights, Marissa opens up about her personal journey from aspiring to a theater career to discovering her true calling as a therapist. Her narrative is a testament to...
2025-01-281h 18
Courage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep.23: Dr. Paul Kachoris Returns: Unveiling the ShadowOne episode 23 of Courage Speaks, host Sam Sherman reconnects with Dr. Paul Kachoris for a profound exploration into "The Shadow Weekend," a transformational retreat deeply rooted in Carl Jung's teachings. Building on their previous conversation in episode 19, Dr. Kachoris delves into the life-changing experiences from this retreat, which invites participants to confront and embrace their inner "shadow" – the parts of ourselves we often reject.
Dr. Kachoris shares his insights on the necessity of forging a relationship with the shadow, emphasizing the courage it takes to bring these hidden parts to light. This second conversation unpacks the delicate pr...
2025-01-0553 min
Courage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep.22: The Ripple Effect of Early Experiences in Mental Health: A Conversation with Micah Shapiro, LCSWWelcome to Episode 22 of Courage Speaks hosted by Sam Sherman. In this conversation, Sam sits down with Micah Shapiro, a licensed clinical social worker, to explore the interconnectedness of our experiences, relationships, and moments that define our paths.
Micah shares his personal journey in the field of mental health, sparked by a childhood encounter with a mental health therapist after the loss of his grandfather. This profound experience set him on a path to help others navigate the complexities of life and mental health.
In their discussion, Sam and Micah delve into the challenges and...
2024-12-1646 min
Courage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep.21: Have the Conversation: Insights into Gambling Addiction with Jody Bechtold, LCSW, ICGC, IGDC,PCOn Episode 21 of Courage Speaks, we welcome Jody Bechtold, a leading expert in gambling addiction, to discuss the rapidly evolving landscape of problem gambling. We explore Jody's journey from corporate to clinical social work, her involvement with the treatment of gambling disorders, and the unique challenges posed by the rise of online gambling.
Jody shares insights into the changing demographics of problem gamblers, highlighting the shift from traditional casino patrons to younger, tech-savvy individuals engaging in online sports betting. She discusses the importance of financial literacy and the need for harm reduction approaches in treatment, emphasizing the...
2024-11-1759 min
Courage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep.20: The Courage Speaks Halloween Spectacular Vol. 1Welcome to The Courage Speaks Halloween Spectacular. In this thrilling episode, we delve into the enigmatic world of fear. Why are we drawn to the eerie and unsettling even when we know danger might be lurking? As a dedicated horror fan, Sam explores these questions with the help of some intriguing experts.
Join Sam as he converses with Mathias Clasen, a world-renowned horror researcher, Leonard Pickel, the godfather of haunted houses, and Dr. Steven Schlozman, a child psychiatrist, horror novelist and horror fanatic. These guests share their insights into the psychology of fear, the allure of horror...
2024-10-311h 16
Courage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep.19: Poetry, Healing, and the Courage to Feel: A Conversation with Dr. Paul KachorisThis week on Courage Speaks: What happens when men are given permission to be vulnerable? Host Sam Sherman sits down with Dr. Paul Kachoris, a psychiatrist who spent years in a traditional medical career before a single weekend changed everything. That weekend led him to shift his focus toward helping men tap into something rarely talked about—emotions.
Dr. Kachoris tells the story of that pivotal moment, the surprising power of poetry in his life, and how creating a space for men to express their feelings can change the way they connect with themselves and the world ar...
2024-10-141h 12
Courage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep.18: Finding Strength Through Vulnerability: Dr. Michael Clatch's JourneyWelcome to episode 18 of Courage Speaks. This episode is brought to you by Courage to Connect, an outpatient mental health center located on Chicago's North Shore, offering therapy, psychological testing, psychiatry, and dietician services for all ages.
Today's episode features the story of Dr. Michael Clatch, therapist, entrepreneur, and founder of Courage to Connect. Dr. Clatch shares his personal journey, shaped by the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of his mother, which led him to a career in mental health. He opens up about the pivotal moments in his life, including the heartbreak of losing his father, which g...
2024-09-2253 min
Courage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep.17: Building Resilience: Dr. Camilo Ortiz on Revolutionizing Anxiety Treatment for KidsJoin us on Episode 17 of Courage Speaks as we delve into an enlightening conversation with Dr. Camilo Ortiz, a professor at Long Island University and a practicing psychologist, known for his groundbreaking work in independence therapy for children and adolescents. Dr. Ortiz shares his journey from aspiring veterinarian to esteemed psychologist and discusses the innovative concept of Independence-Focused Therapy (IFT).
Learn how IFT is transforming traditional anxiety treatments by incorporating daily independence activities that empower kids to face and navigate their fears in a fun and engaging way. Discover the crucial role of mixed-age free play, the...
2024-09-0347 min
Courage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep.16: Personalized Nutrition: Beyond the Trends: A Conversation with Kimberly Novotny RDN, LDNWelcome to episode 16 of Courage Speaks. This week, host Sam Sherman talks with Kimberly Novotny, a dietician at Courage to Connect, about the myths of diet culture and how to cultivate a healthier relationship with food.
Kimberly shares her journey from marketing to dietetics and how her passion for wellness shapes her work with clients of all ages. They discuss the impact of social media trends like TikTok on our eating habits and body image, and Kimberly offers insights on creating sustainable, individualized eating plans.
Join us for an enlightening conversation on navigating societal pressures...
2024-08-1146 min
Courage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep.15: The Evolving Role of School Psychologists with Coraline Dubois Ed.S, NCSPWelcome to Episode 15 of Courage Speaks, hosted by Sam Sherman and brought to you by Courage to Connect, an outpatient mental health center located on Chicago's North Shore.
In this episode, Sam speaks with Coraline Dubois, a school psychologist and clinician at Courage to Connect Mental Health Center, who shares her unique journey from equine management to psychology.
She discusses the integration of special education in schools and how the pandemic has impacted child development. Coraline also offers valuable insights into managing screen time for children and the evolving role of a school...
2024-07-1436 min
Courage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep.14: Mental Health Counselor Patrick Mooney on Self Reflection, Career Change and FriendshipOn today’s episode of Courage Speaks, we have a very special guest— my friend and soon-to-be co-worker, Patrick Mooney. Patrick's inspiring journey into the field of mental health is a testament to the power of self-reflection and perseverance. He made a bold career change, pursued his passion at Adler University, and gained invaluable experience during his clinical internship at the Juniper Center.
In our conversation, Patrick shares his insights on working with a diverse group of clients and the importance of understanding the "ghosts of our past" through a psychodynamic approach. He offers practical advice for thos...
2024-06-2448 min
Courage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep.13: Deanna Belos of Sincere Engineer on Anxiety, Therapy, and Punk RockWelcome to episode 13 of Courage Speaks.
On today's episode, we're joined by Deanna Belos, the front-woman of the Chicago-based band Sincere Engineer. Deanna shares her experiences with generalized anxiety disorder, the impact of therapy, and how she manages the pressures of performing. She reflects on the supportive Chicago punk scene, the challenges of balancing productivity with self-care, and the surreal moments of success in her musical career.
You will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of community, the complexities of managing anxiety, and the power of vulnerability in art. Deanna's candid conversation offers valuable...
2024-06-0247 minCourage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep.12: Marissa Kaelter, Ed.S., M.Ed., NCSP, on Productivity, Boundaries, and Mental HealthcareIn Episode 12 of Courage Speaks, delve into a profound discussion with mental health expert Marissa Kaelter, as she illuminates the societal constructs of "productivity" and offers strategies to navigate the associated guilt of non-conformity. Drawing from her rich experiences as a therapist, parent, and individual, Kaelter shares invaluable insights on productivity, mental health care, and coping with societal pressures. Explore the significance of setting personal boundaries, embracing self-forgiveness, and fostering trust within the realm of mental health.
2024-05-1149 minCourage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep.11: Bridging Battles: General Gregg Martin's Bipolar OdysseyWelcome to Episode 11 of Courage Speaks, where host Sam Sherman engages in an intimate conversation with one of the most inspiring military leaders, General Gregg Martin. In this episode, General Martin openly shares his personal experiences battling bipolar disorder, illustrating his struggles from exhilarating manic highs to challenging depressive lows. This discussion provides a deeper understanding of bipolar disorder and highlights the significance of courage in confronting mental health challenges.
General Martin's journey draws focus on the misconceptions about mental health and exposes the gaps in our medical system in diagnosing and addressing such concerns. He emphasizes...
2024-04-2154 minCourage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep.10 : Trailblazing Minds: Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve, One of USA Today's Women of the YearWelcome to Episode 10 of Courage Speaks.
Our host Sam Sherman engages in a conversation with Mayor Hillary Schieve of Reno, Nevada, who has been spearheading her community since 2014. A Woman of the Year named by USA Today, Mayor Schieve shares her personal journey with mental health and her thriving vision for improved mental wellness in her community.
Through her vivid anecdotes, Mayor Schieve talks about overcoming barriers to mental health care, navigating through a pandemic, and launching creative initiatives such as providing talk space memberships for her community. Her dedication to establishing 24-7 mental health...
2024-03-3140 minCourage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep.9 : A Conversation with Keri Golding LCSW, Clinical Supervisor at Courage to ConnectIn the 9th episode of Courage Speaks, we welcome licensed clinical social worker, Keri Golding. Join us as we navigate the intricacies of parenthood, the impact of social media on adolescents, and strategies to manage mental health.
Golding brings forth her expertise in ADHD, anxiety, parenting, and women's issues in an engaging conversation. She shares an enlightening discourse on her journey in the field of mental health and her devotion to working with mothers grappling with the challenges of parenthood.
The episode does not shy away from discussing the transformative impact of the digital age...
2024-03-1042 minCourage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep.8: Solving the Equation for Math Anxiety with Dr. Molly JamesonWelcome 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...
2024-02-1846 minCourage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep.7: Exploring the risks and rewards of AI Chatbots in Therapy: A Conversation with Science Journalist, Sara ReardonOn 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...
2024-01-2135 minCourage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep. 6: Normalizing Mental Health with Amanda Stephans MSW, LCSWOn 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...
2023-12-311h 01Courage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep.5: Gender Magic with Rae McDaniel MEd, LCPC, CSTRae 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...
2023-12-0950 minCourage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep. 4: Breaking Barriers: A Conversation with Dr. Kailyn Bobb and Dr. Jazzmin CohenOn 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
2023-11-1753 minCourage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep. 3: Mariela Ruiz-Angel: Reshaping Community SafetyOn 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...
2023-10-271h 01Courage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep. 2: Erin Borton- Heart for the UnderdogOn 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
2023-10-1330 minCourage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep. 2: Erin Borton- Heart for the UnderdogOn 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
2023-10-0830 minCourage SpeaksCourage Speaks Ep. 1: Gambling AddictionIn 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, t...
2023-09-0840 min