In Part 2 of our annual Mental Health and the Media series, Heather Croas welcomes Jennifer and Micah Grawey to explore how television portrays mental health. From animated standouts like Bluey and Adventure Time to true crime and dramas, they unpack what TV gets right, where it goes wrong, and why representation matters.
📩 For more information about The Green Phoenix or to be a guest on a future episode, contact Heather Croas at: [email protected]

In Part 1 of our annual Mental Health and the Media series, Heather Croas is joined by Jennifer and Micah Grawey to explore how mental health has been portrayed in film—from horror tropes and outdated stereotypes to recent strides in representation and empathy. This episode dives into decades of cinema, highlighting the cultural impact of movies like Silver Linings Playbook, Beautiful Boy, I Saw the TV Glow, and more.

In this deeply moving episode, the Fighting the Darkness Panel Discussion on Suicide Prevention—presented by 22one Realty Co. and Crawford Street Designs—brings together a courageous group of voices to share their lived experiences and professional insights. Moderator Larry Grawey is joined by Morgan Pickering (First Responder), Jessica Alexander (Therapist), Jennifer Greenberg (Suicide Loss Survivor), Jennifer Grawey (Pastor), and Heather Croas (Suicide Attempt Survivor). Together, they explore the emotional toll of mental illness, the complexity of suicidal ideation, and the healing power of connection. This episode is a testament to resilience, empathy, and the importance of speaking the unspeakable.
📩 For more information about The Green Phoenix or to be a guest on a future episode, contact Heather Croas at: [email protected]

In this deeply moving episode, Heather and Larry sit down with Dave Griffith to explore the quiet strength behind a life shaped by caregiving, loss, and unwavering faith. From growing up as a military kid to navigating decades of marriage through mental illness and chronic health challenges, Dave shares his story with raw honesty and grace. Together, they unpack the emotional toll of long-term suffering, the struggle with resentment, and the power of surrender.

This episode is a testament to enduring love, the resilience of the human spirit, and the kind of faith that holds steady through life’s unseen battles.
📩 For more information about The Green Phoenix or to be a guest on a future episode, contact Heather Croas at: [email protected]

In this heartfelt and candid conversation, Heather sits down with Haley—her youngest guest yet—for a deep dive into the generational shifts that shape how we experience life, technology, mental health, and belonging. From favorite films and ukuleles to the impact of COVID, bullying, and social media, they explore what it means to grow up in different eras and how those experiences influence identity and resilience. With reflections on introversion, depression, and the importance of genuine connection, this episode offers a warm, thoughtful look at how we navigate change and learn to accept ourselves.
📩 For more information about The Green Phoenix or to be a guest on a future episode, contact Heather Croas at: [email protected]

In this episode of 4:12 Connections, physical therapist and athletic trainer Scott C. McInturff, PT, DPT, ATC joins the conversation to explore the deeper layers of healing—beyond just muscles and movement. With over two decades of experience, Scott shares how his approach to recovery blends science, empathy, and a deep respect for the mind-body connection.

Together, we talk about:

• Why “creative walking” is more than just a limp
• The emotional and psychological layers of physical pain
• Rethinking the 0–10 pain scale
• Functional goals vs. time-based recovery
• How trauma, beliefs, and past experiences shape healing
• The need for more mental health awareness in physical therapy

Whether you're a patient, a provider, or someone navigating your own recovery, this episode offers insight, encouragement, and a few laughs along the way.

📩 For more information about The Green Phoenix or to be a guest on a future episode, contact Heather Croas at: [email protected]

Join us on 4:12 Connections for a heartfelt and humorous conversation with author and mental health advocate LJ Daniel. In this episode, Bree shares her journey as a writer, wife, and caregiver navigating life with neurodivergent loved ones. Together, we explore the challenges of masking, the emotional toll of caregiving, and how storytelling—both fictional and autobiographical—can be a powerful tool for healing and connection.

Bree also introduces her debut novel, 𝑰’𝒎 𝑭𝒊𝒏𝒆. 𝑺𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝑴𝒆., Book One in The Spiral Duet, a romance that blends mental health representation, open communication, and a unique love story that defies convention.

📚 Find the book:

• Amazon eBook
• Barnes & Noble
• Signed Copies
• Add on Goodreads

📩 Connect with LJ Daniel: ljdanielwrites.com | Instagram

For more information about The Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode, please don’t hesitate to shoot me an email.

📩 Contact Us: Heather Croas – [email protected]

Join us on 4:12 Connections for an engaging conversation with Pastor Brandon Nichols of Mercy Hill Church. In this episode, Brandon shares his personal journey in ministry, discussing the evolving role of the church in supporting mental health and the strength found in community partnerships within Kennesaw. Learn about the importance of empathy, listening, and practical care in addressing sensitive topics. For more information or to connect with Brandon, you can reach him at [email protected].

For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.

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In this episode of 4:12 Connections, we delve into a conversation with Emily Spellman, who offers a unique perspective on community and connection in Adairsville, GA. Emily's work at Living Way Academy and her involvement with Adairsville Coffee Co. highlight the ways in which strong relationships and a sense of belonging can contribute to mental health and resilience. Tune in to hear Emily's thoughts on the power of connection and its impact on overall well-being.
For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode  please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.

Contact Us.  

Join us on 4:12 Connections for an authentic conversation with Kennedy as she shares her journey of faith and the unexpected connections sparked by a shared love for coffee. Hear Kennedy's personal insights on finding her place and the meaningful experiences gained through serving in her church and her past role as a barista. Kennedy offers a down-to-earth perspective on navigating life and simply doing her best, reminding us of the power of everyday connections.