Discover how mental health parity laws are transforming insurance coverage for mental health and substance use disorders. In this episode, Isaac sits down with experts Beth Baum and Leondra Dodd from the U.S. Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration to discuss the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MAPEA), recent regulation updates, and how they impact your rights. Learn about compliance, red flags to watch for, and how to access critical resources.

Resources:

• Contact EBSA: 1-866-444-3272
• Ask EBSA: askebsa.dol.gov
• Visit the DOL website for more: www.dol.gov/ebsa

Our guests, Tim and Tara Gwynn, share their personal journey through the challenges of military service, PTSD, and recovery. Tim, a retired combat engineer, and Tara, a dedicated NAMI volunteer, open up about their experiences with mental health struggles, the impact of military life on their relationship, and the transformative power of advocacy and support. This episode offers a compassionate look at the realities faced by veterans and their families, emphasizing the importance of seeking help and sharing stories of hope.

In this episode, we explore the critical intersection of mental health and race, shedding light on the profound implications of systemic racism on mental well-being. Honoring Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, we trace the origins of this observance back to the relentless advocacy of Bebe Moore Campbell. 

Joined by guests Itzel Moya and SJ Hazim, the discussion navigates through the experiences of minorities facing mental health challenges in Kansas, exploring cultural stigmas, systemic barriers, and personal narratives that highlight the urgent need for inclusivity and understanding in mental health care. Join us and together we can amplify voices from the community, offering insights and fostering a deeper conversation about mental health equity.

In this episode of "I Am NAMI Kansas," we sit down with members of the Capital City Crushers roller derby team to discuss their personal journeys with mental health. From anxiety to overcoming loss, these resilient skaters share how the camaraderie and consistency of roller derby provide them with support, purpose, and a vital mental health routine. Listen to hear their inspiring stories, the importance of finding a supportive community, and how physical activity plays a crucial role in their well-being. Don't miss this uplifting conversation, and be sure to join us at the upcoming NAMI Walks event to support mental health advocacy.

NAMI Walks: https://namiwalks.org/kansas
NAMI Smarts: https://namikansas.org/support-and-education/presentations/nami-smarts-for-advocacy/
NAMI Kansas Event Calendar: https://namikansas.org/calendar/
Fast Democracy: https://fastdemocracy.com/


Produced by Capture Connection Studios: captureconnectionstudios.com

Welcome back to "I Am NAMI Kansas," the podcast where we explore mental health topics with a local focus. In this episode, we delve deep into the critical intersection of the criminal justice system and mental health in Kansas, revealing the challenges and opportunities within our local jails and prisons.

Join us as we discuss the significant mental health issues facing incarcerated individuals across the state with a range of experts and firsthand accounts. Our guests include Itzel, a NAMI Kansas employee from Western Kansas, who will share insights on the Assisted Outpatient Treatment program, and Dr. Brittany Harmes, who discusses the Justice Involved Person Project.

We also hear from Captain Mark French from the Riley County Jail about the practical challenges and initiatives within the corrections system. Lastly, Christa Redd, a resident at Reno County Jail, offers a powerful personal testimony about her experiences with mental health and the justice system.

This episode provides a comprehensive look at how mental health care is integrated within the justice system, the effectiveness of court-ordered treatments, and personal stories of struggle and advocacy. Whether you're a mental health professional, someone affected by these issues, or simply interested in the state of mental health care in Kansas, this episode offers valuable perspectives and solutions.

Don't forget to subscribe for more discussions and insights into mental health in Kansas. Share this episode to help spread awareness and understanding about the vital link between mental health and the criminal justice system.

NAMI Walks: https://namiwalks.org/kansas
NAMI Smarts: https://namikansas.org/support-and-education/presentations/nami-smarts-for-advocacy/
NAMI Kansas Event Calendar: https://namikansas.org/calendar/
Fast Democracy: https://fastdemocracy.com/


Produced by Capture Connection Studios: captureconnectionstudios.com

Join us as we explore advocacy's transformative power in shaping societal landscapes. Hosted by Isaac, we get to hear from Chris Chastain, Lori Barnes, and Cindy Glaeser. 

Listeners can expect to hear:

• Insights into the core principles of advocacy and its significance in fostering societal change.
• Personal anecdotes and experiences from Cindy, shedding light on the realities of advocacy work and the resilience required to navigate its challenges.
• A deep dive into the legislative process through Lori's narrative on HB 2345, unveiling the intricacies of policy reform and the journey from idea to implementation.
• Practical advice and actionable steps from Chris, empowering listeners to engage in advocacy efforts tailored to their interests and communities.

Episode Three of I Am Nami Kansas serves as a testament to the enduring power of collective voices and the indomitable spirit of advocacy in shaping a brighter future for all. Join us as we amplify voices, ignite change, and pave the way for a more just and equitable society.

NAMI Walks: https://namiwalks.org/kansas
NAMI Smarts: https://namikansas.org/support-and-education/presentations/nami-smarts-for-advocacy/
NAMI Kansas Event Calendar: https://namikansas.org/calendar/
Fast Democracy: https://fastdemocracy.com/


Produced by Capture Connection Studios: captureconnectionstudios.com

In this episode we explore the stark realities of mental health care in rural and frontier counties. 

Isaac is joined by Itzel Moya, a social worker raised in Dodge City who currently works with Western Kansans as a social worker, and Lowell Neitzel, a fourth generation farmer and a mental health advocate. 

You can expect to hear about: 

• the unique challenges faced by Kansans far from urban centers
• the staggering provider shortages 
• the cultural complexities of agricultural life
• the mental health stigma in rural and frontier communities 
• and much more.

For more information, to get involved, or to seek resources, visit namikansas.org. Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn for updates, and remember, there is nothing about us without us. Stay tuned for our next episode on mental health in rural and frontier communities—this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

NAMI Walks: https://namiwalks.org/kansas
Produced by Capture Connection Studios: captureconnectionstudios.com

In our inaugural episode, we delve into the heart of NAMI Kansas, exploring its roots, mission, and the life-changing impact it has on individuals and communities across the state. Join host Isaac as he converses with Dr. Sherry Vaughn, unveiling the organization's vision and the innovative "front porch" approach to mental health advocacy.

Witness the power of personal stories with heartfelt discussions featuring Stacey and SJ, whose real-life experiences with NAMI Kansas bring hope and understanding to the forefront. As we look ahead to 2024, we tease the exciting developments on the horizon, including a mental health summit, a groundbreaking book project, and the expansion of NAMI's reach to every corner of Kansas.

This episode is not just a podcast; it's a call to action, a beacon of hope, and a testament to the strength of community. Whether you're seeking support, education, or a way to contribute to the mental health movement, NAMI Kansas is your ally, your advocate, and your home.

Don't miss out on this pivotal conversation that could change the way you see mental health advocacy. Tune in, follow, rate, and join us in saying, "I am NAMIKansas."

For more information, to get involved, or to seek resources, visit namikansas.org. Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn for updates, and remember, there is nothing about us without us. Stay tuned for our next episode on mental health in rural and frontier communities—this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

NAMI Walks: https://namiwalks.org/kansas

Produced by Capture Connection Studios: captureconnectionstudios.com

Discover the power of voices in the I AM NAMI Kansas podcast, brought to you by NAMI Kansas. From personal stories to insights into mental health systems, each episode aims to provide support and resources for Kansans.

Explore the diversity of experiences, whether you're learning about mental health or have a personal connection. Follow us for monthly episodes and join the conversation on mental health in Kansas. Together, let's challenge stigmas and embrace the belief that every voice matters.

"Because there is nothing about us without us."

Connect with us at https://namikansas.org/ 

Produced by https://captureconnectionstudios.com