Expanding Access

Transforming mental healthcare through personal stories and innovative solutions is pivotal in enhancing access for all.

In this episode, Dr. Mike Franz, Executive Medical Director for Behavioral Health at Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon, shares his personal battles with depression and anxiety, illustrating how these experiences shape his empathetic approach to patient care. He emphasizes the significance of effective treatment, highlighting therapy, medication, and the need to destigmatize mental health issues. Dr. Franz discusses the interdependence of mental and physical health, showcasing the accessible services his health plan offers, such as rapid access to psychiatrists and therapists. He encourages leaders to openly share their mental health journeys to help reduce stigma and foster a more supportive environment.

Tune in to discover how Dr. Franz is transforming behavioral health care, breaking down barriers to access, and inspiring inclusive solutions for everyone!

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.

Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100”

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.

Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100”

The 988 crisis lifeline must integrate into a broader mental health network through partnerships, technology, and strategic expansion to tackle the root causes of crises effectively.

In this episode, Pawel Walczuk, Managing Director at Accenture, discusses the transformative potential of 988, the national mental health crisis line. He highlights how it can evolve to address broader behavioral health needs and the importance of connecting the crisis line to a broader care ecosystem. Pawel also talks about addressing workforce shortages through technology and leveraging partnerships across startups, governments, and larger organizations to scale solutions effectively. 

Tune in to explore how 988 can evolve into a cornerstone for comprehensive mental health care!



Increased awareness, empathetic management, and culturally competent care are essential for addressing the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals.

In this episode, Rebecca Warnken, Inclusive Benefits Leader at the Practice of Health Transformation at Aon, talks about navigating neurodiversity in the workplace and in healthcare. She discusses the challenges and opportunities associated with supporting neurodivergent individuals, both as employees and patients. Rebecca shares her personal and professional journey advocating for increased awareness, better benefits, and cultural competency in care for neurodivergent populations.

Tune in to learn how creating inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals benefits everyone, from the workplace to healthcare!

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.

Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100”

Purpose-built technology solutions tailored for behavioral health providers are essential to enable a more efficient and impactful care delivery system.

In this episode, Chad Dodd, Vice President of Product Management at Athena Health, talks about the growing need for innovation in behavioral health technology.  Chad addresses the challenges of administrative burdens, provider shortages, and patient care gaps. He highlights the development of purpose-built solutions for behavioral health providers.  Chad discusses how these tools prioritize asynchronous communication, interoperability, and tailored workflows to alleviate burnout and improve care delivery.

Tune in to discover how technology is revolutionizing behavioral health care, addressing provider burnout, and enhancing patient outcomes!

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.

Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100”

Autism advocacy is transforming perceptions and increasing awareness in various domains.

In this episode of the Expanding Access podcast, Jennifer Palumbo, a freelance writer at Wonder Woman Writer, shares her journey with autism and infertility, driven by raising her neurodivergent son. She highlights the importance of dispelling misconceptions about autism in the workplace to showcase the value of neurodivergent individuals. Advocacy has been empowering for Jennifer, akin to her previous stand-up comedy work, and she emphasizes humor's role in coping with challenges and making complex topics accessible through Wonder Woman Writer. Jennifer's future panel will explore neurodivergence and technology, and she encourages openness about personal challenges to reduce stigma, inviting listeners to connect with her on platforms like Forbes and Today.

Tune in to this insightful episode to learn more about Jennifer's advocacy and the power of humor in navigating life's challenges!

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.

Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100”

Adolescent behavioral healthcare is undergoing a transformation through innovative virtual solutions.

In this episode, Robert MacNaughton, co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Antelope Recovery, discusses how his organization addresses challenges in adolescent behavioral healthcare, including mental health deserts and stigmas against virtual care. Antelope Recovery provides virtual, personalized care for high-acuity teens, integrating therapy within their home environments and collaborating with school and healthcare providers. Robert emphasizes the effectiveness of virtual care in improving teens' real-life situations and highlights the importance of clinician wellbeing, collaboration, and sustainable practices. He also advocates for a growth mindset to continually address deficiencies in the behavioral health system.

Tune in to discover how Antelope Recovery is transforming adolescent behavioral healthcare with innovative virtual solutions!

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.

Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100”

Preventative mental health education is essential for student success, and integrating quick, practical tools into daily routines can foster emotional resilience and prevent crises.

In this episode, Tessa Zimmerman, founder of Upstream Education, discusses her mission to revolutionize mental health education for students. She talks about her struggles with severe panic attacks as a child and how it impulsed the development of a program that equips educators with tier-one social-emotional learning tools. Tessa mentions how, with the help of a student task force and mental health experts, Upstream Education ensures its programs remain relevant and impactful. She also explains the three pillars to aim to prevent mental health crises: stress management, self-regulation, and attachment.

Tune in to learn how small changes and bite-sized tools in education can make a big difference in mental health and foster emotional well-being for students and staff!

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.

Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100”

To expand mental healthcare access and balance operational growth with quality care for diverse populations, including underserved communities and teens.

In this episode, Julia Bernstein, Chief Operations Officer at Brightside Health, explores the challenges and innovations in scaling quality mental health care to underserved populations. She talks about leveraging evidence-based practices to ensure quality care delivery. Julia discusses utilizing digital tools to address barriers to accessing care for teens. She also shares some insights on navigating regulatory frameworks to expand equitable mental health services.

Tune in to discover how digital health innovation transforms access to quality mental health care for underserved communities!



Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.

Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100”

Integrating behavioral health into OB practices and utilizing telehealth is critical to addressing the maternal mental health crisis and improving outcomes for families.

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Gaulton, CEO of Family Well, discusses the intersection of perinatal mental health and technology, focusing on collaborative care. She discusses how innovative care models are addressing critical gaps in maternal mental health services. Dr. Gaulton talks about embedding behavioral health support into OB practices. She also mentions how leveraging telehealth helps scale access to specialized care for new mothers and families.

Tune in to learn how innovative care models and tech-driven solutions are reshaping the future of maternal mental health!

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.

Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100”

Asynchronous therapy and telehealth expand access to mental healthcare, especially for underserved populations, through scalable, technology-driven approaches.

In this episode, Erin Boyd, Chief Growth Officer at Talkspace, discusses the evolving landscape of digital behavioral health. She emphasizes how innovative approaches like asynchronous therapy and telehealth are breaking barriers in mental healthcare. Erin also discusses strategies to combat stigma and expand access to underserved populations such as teens and seniors. She also explores the integration of AI to improve therapeutic outcomes.

Tune in to discover how digital health is reshaping the way we approach mental healthcare!



Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.

Save $100 on your registration here by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100”