Welcome to SEASON 4 of JUST HEALING!

Unlock the transformative power of vulnerability and community- discover how MenHealing is redefining trauma recovery for men and beyond. This episode reveals the bold, intersectional strategies driving real change, from innovative support programs to cultural shifts that challenge toxic masculinity.

Jim Struve, founder of MenHealing, shares nearly five decades of pioneering work - starting from his early days working with abuse survivors in Atlanta to creating groundbreaking retreats and national resources. His story highlights the importance of visibility, boldness, and saying the quiet stuff out loud. Jim discusses the organization’s evolution into a movement that fosters safe spaces for men, advocates for collaboration across genders, and pushes boundaries with unconventional projects like concerts, books in correctional facilities, and multimedia storytelling.

Co-hosts Dr. Debra and Michael Munson, along with Sam Katz, Director of Engagement at MenHealing, bring their unique perspectives to the conversation. They explore how MenHealing's initiatives are breaking stereotypes and fostering authentic connections. Sam shares his personal journey from discovering his own survivor story to leveraging his skills in documentary filmmaking to amplify MenHealing's mission.

You’ll discover:

• The origin story of MenHealing and how a simple question sparked a global movement
• Concrete programs like year-round support groups, retreats, and resources in 1,430 correctional facilities
• Strategies for breaking down masculine stereotypes by emphasizing storytelling and connection over data alone
• Why collaboration with women and other survivors is central to creating inclusive healing spaces
• Jim’s bold vision for the future: fearless leadership that innovates beyond traditional models and models that foster resilience, compassion, and social justice

This episode isn’t just for men; if you’re a survivor, a supporter, or a societal changemaker, understanding these breakthroughs highlights the power of exposing the quiet truths, healing in community, and expanding our collective capacity for hope. The stakes are high: without these shifts, the cycle of silence and shame persists. But with them, we can build a more compassionate, equitable future for all.

Perfect for advocates, mental health professionals, and anyone committed to reshaping what healing looks like, this conversation will inspire you to see trauma and recovery through a broader, more courageous lens. The future belongs to those willing to challenge norms and say the quiet stuff out loud. Are you ready to join us?

Visit www.menhealing.org to learn more

In this episode of Just Healing, Dr. Debra and Dr. Gregory Canillas discuss the complexities of relationships, focusing on the DL (down low) phenomenon, cultural components, and the impact of trauma. They explore how societal and cultural pressures influence individuals' ability to be authentic in relationships, and the importance of recognizing green flags and resolving personal trauma for healthier connections.

🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• The DL phenomenon involves men who are not openly gay or bisexual.
• Cultural and religious backgrounds can influence the DL phenomenon.
• Trust and openness are crucial in relationships.
• Trauma can negatively impact relationship dynamics.
• Recognizing green flags is essential for healthy relationships.
• Communication issues are common in relationships.
• Healing from trauma is important before entering relationships.
• Safety and authenticity are key in relationships.
• Societal pressures can hinder authenticity.
• Green flags indicate potential for positive relationships.

Contact Dr. Greg: www.soul2soulglobal.com

Chapters:

• 00:01:29 Introduction to the DL Phenomenon
• 00:03:17 Cultural and Religious Influences
• 00:06:33 Impact of Trauma on Relationships
• 00:10:05 Communication and Trust Issues
• 00:16:04 Healing and Recognizing Green Flags
• 00:24:16 Conclusion and Resources

✨ Listen, Learn, HealIf this episode resonates, hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE to support trauma-informed conversations.

🎙️ About Just HealingJust Healing is a space where we rediscover our shared humanity, explore trauma-informed conversations, and celebrate the many ways people grow, love, and heal.

Visit MenHealing at: https://www.menhealing.org/

In this inspiring episode, we delve into the journey of unlocking one's potential and embracing personal growth. Through engaging conversations, we explore the transformative power of perspective, the importance of setting goals, and the art of becoming extraordinary. Join us as we uncover the keys to living a life filled with purpose and passion, and discover how small shifts can lead to monumental changes. Tune in to embark on a path of self-discovery and empowerment.

🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

▶Understanding what you truly want is key to growth.

▶Perspective can help overcome feelings of being stuck.

▶Authentic communication is crucial in relationships.

▶Finding the right fit in therapy or coaching is essential.

▶Humor can be a powerful tool in personal development.

▶Growth often requires stepping out of your comfort zone.

▶Language shapes our perception and experiences.

▶Setting clear goals is vital for progress.

▶Diversity in experiences enriches personal growth.

▶Believing in oneself is fundamental to living a fulfilled life.

Contact Mark: [email protected]

#PersonalGrowth #Transformation #AuthenticCommunication #Therapy #Coaching #SelfDiscovery #OvercomingStuckness #HumorInHealing #PerspectiveShift #believeinyourself

✨ Listen, Learn, HealIf this episode resonates, hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE to support trauma-informed conversations.🎙️ About Just HealingJust Healing is a space where we rediscover our shared humanity, explore trauma-informed conversations, and celebrate the many ways people grow, love, and heal.Visit MenHealing at: https://www.menhealing.org/

Join Dr. Debra and Dr. Christopher Deulen as they delve into the complexities of transgender identity and the societal challenges faced by the transgender community. This episode covers the importance of understanding and respect, the impact of societal perceptions, and the role of mental health professionals in supporting transgender individuals. Dr. Deulen shares personal experiences and insights, emphasizing the need for education and open dialogue to foster acceptance and understanding.

🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

▶ See the world from the perspective of transgender individuals.

▶ Respect and proper pronoun usage are crucial.

▶ Societal perceptions create significant challenges.

▶ Mental health professionals play a key role in support.

▶ Education and open dialogue foster acceptance.

Chapters:

1. Introduction and Guest Introduction

2. Understanding Transgender Identity

3. Societal Challenges and Perceptions

4. Role of Mental Health Professionals

5. Importance of Education and Dialogue

6. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

#TransgenderIdentity #MentalHealth #Education #Acceptance #OpenDialogue

✨ Listen, Learn, Heal

If this episode resonates, hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE to support trauma-informed conversations.

🎙️ About Just Healing

Just Healing is a space where we rediscover our shared humanity, explore trauma-informed conversations, and celebrate the many ways people grow, love, and heal.

Visit MenHealing at: www.menhealing.org

In this episode of Just Healing, Dr. Debra is joined by Garrett Wood, owner of Gnosis Therapy, to discuss the challenges faced by high-achieving, high-masking professionals. They explore the concepts of burnout, hypnotherapy, and the importance of addressing mental and emotional health in professional settings. Garrett shares insights on how masking neurodivergence can lead to burnout and the role of hypnotherapy in fostering resilience and well-being.

This conversation dives into:

• High-achieving professionals often experience burnout due to masking.
• Hypnotherapy can help in addressing underlying emotional issues.
• Burnout is more than just workplace stress; it affects all areas of life.
• Masking neurodivergence can lead to chronic stress and burnout.
• Healthy coping mechanisms are crucial for sustainable success.
• Hypnotherapy involves self-hypnosis and focused states of mind.
• Positive reinforcement is more effective than negative in hypnotherapy.
• Addressing imposter syndrome can lead to personal growth.
• Creating a supportive environment can improve organizational well-being.
• Everyone struggles; seeking help is a sign of strength.

📩 Connect with Garrett Wood:

www.gnosistherapy.com

Instagram

LinkedIn

🎙️ About Just Healing

Just Healing is a space where we rediscover our shared humanity, explore trauma-informed conversations, and celebrate the many ways people grow, love, and heal.

📌If this episode resonates with you, please like, comment, and subscribe to support more conversations like this.

#Burnout #Hypnotherapy #MentalHealth #Resilience #HighAchievers

In this powerful episode of Just Healing, Dr. Debra sits down with mindset coach, author, and entrepreneur David McKee for a deep dive into the science of thought patterns, emotional regulation, trauma responses, and why so many of us feel stuck in our own lives.

David opens up about his personal journey through childhood trauma, ADHD, negative thought loops, and high cortisol living — and how neuroscience-based mindset practices helped him rebuild his internal world. Together, they break down how stress, social media, and childhood experiences shape behavior, why COVID-era youth are struggling, and how simple daily mental habits can create lasting change.

Whether you’re navigating burnout, imposter syndrome, emotional blocks, or a longing for more purpose, this episode gives clear, actionable tools for resetting your mindset and reclaiming your life.

🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

▶How 90% of adult behavior becomes automated — and how to break the loop

▶The impact of COVID on adolescent brain development

▶Why negative thought patterns dominate the average person’s day

▶The neuroscience behind manifestation and the Reticular Activating System

▶How cortisol hijacks your ability to calm down

▶Practical strategies for breaking creative blocks and overthinking

▶How organizations can support high-performing but struggling employees

▶The truth about imposter syndrome and people-pleasing

▶Simple mindset exercises that actually work

📘 About David McKeeMindset coach, speaker, and author of the upcoming book “Navigate the Noise,” David blends neuroscience, psychology, and lived experience to help people rewire their internal narratives and build healthier, more productive lives.

Follow David: @davidmckee84 and @anotherangleconsulting on Instagram.

In this episode of "Just Healing," Dr. Adam Yerke, a clinical and forensic psychologist, discusses the history and challenges of transgender individuals in the military. The conversation covers the impact of policy changes, the importance of normalizing gender diversity, and the broader implications for society.This conversation dives into:▶The history of transgender people serving in the military▶How changing policies create trauma, instability, and barriers to service▶The difference between gender identity and sexual orientation▶The mental health consequences of exclusion and stigma▶Global military inclusion trends compared to the United States▶How families, communities, and children understand gender▶The importance of normalizing gender diversity through everyday conversations▶The human impact when dedicated service members are told they’re “not eligible” simply for being who they areDr. Yerke also offers guidance on:▶Talking about gender with older generations▶Supporting young people in understanding their own identity▶Breaking down misinformation about transgender communities▶Challenging internalized and societal stigma▶Recognizing the similarities we all share, regardless of gender identityThis episode highlights the real people behind the headlines — service members, parents, leaders, and families navigating identity, dignity, and belonging.📩 Connect with Dr. Adam Yerke: [email protected]🎙️ About Just HealingJust Healing is a space where we rediscover our shared humanity, explore trauma-informed conversations, and celebrate the many ways people grow, love, and heal.📌If this episode resonates with you, please like, comment, and subscribe to support more conversations like this.#TransgenderRights #MilitaryInclusion #TransgenderMilitaryBan #JustHealingPodcast #TraumaInformed #LGBTQ #GenderIdentity #TransgenderVeterans #PolicyAndImpact #MentalHealth

In this episode of Just Healing, Dr. Debra speaks with Michael Levittan, a licensed therapist, expert witness, and longtime advocate, about how definitions of masculinity shape relationships, fuel cycles of domestic violence, and create barriers to emotional connection.

Michael shares his decades of experience working with survivors and perpetrators, unpacking how cultural expectations, toxic masculinity, and coercive control impact both men and women. Together, they explore how compassion and vulnerability—not control—can transform the way we understand masculinity and create healthier, safer relationships.

✨ What you’ll learn in this episode:

• What masculinity really means—and how definitions shift across time and culture

• The connection between rigid gender roles and domestic violence

• Why coercive control can be as damaging as physical violence

• How toxic masculinity suppresses emotions and fuels anger

• Practical advice for survivors, perpetrators, and anyone seeking healthier relationships

  
  

🌟 About Michael Levitan
Michael is a licensed therapist, lecturer, and media commentator specializing in domestic violence, child abuse, sex trafficking, anger management, and trauma recovery. He is widely published on men’s issues, masculinity, and family violence.

🔗 Connect with Michael Levittan:Website: www.michaellevittan.comEmail: [email protected]

🌱 Episode takeaway:“Real change happens when we look within. Control and blame only keep us stuck—compassion and self-awareness move us forward.”

📌 Subscribe to Just Healing for more survivor-centered conversations that challenge stigma and celebrate the many ways we heal.

#JustHealing #Masculinity #DomesticViolence #ToxicMasculinity #TraumaRecovery #Healing

💻 Visit MenHealing at: https://www.menhealing.org/

In this episode of Just Healing, Dr. Debra talks with Maren Casada, a victim advocate and returning SCRIPT Conference presenter, about the concept of active healing—a survivor-centered approach that emphasizes taking ownership of your healing journey without the pressure to forgive.

Maren shares her personal experiences with trauma, the challenges of navigating family dynamics, and why survivors don’t owe forgiveness to their abusers. Instead, she highlights how active healing creates space for self-empowerment, growth, and boundaries - while still allowing for setbacks along the way.

✨ What you’ll hear in this episode:

• What active healing is—and how it differs from forgiveness

• Why forgiveness is optional, not mandatory, for survivors

• How cultural and religious expectations complicate healing

• The importance of boundaries and removing toxic people from your circle

• Practical tools for building a self-directed healing practice

  
  

🌟 SCRIPT Conference
Maren will be presenting Active Healing vs. Forgiveness at the SCRIPT Conference (September 29–30 at the California Endowment Center). This free, community-focused event also offers continuing education credits for professionals.
👉 Learn more & register: thescriptconference.com

🔗 Connect with Maren Casada:

• Email: [email protected]

• Instagram: @casadamaren

• LinkedIn: Maren Casada

  
  

🌱 Episode takeaway:“You don’t owe anyone forgiveness. Healing and forgiveness are not mutually exclusive - you can heal without forgiving.”

Learn more about MenHealing : www.menhealing.org

In this episode of Just Healing, Dr. Debra talks with Dr. Josh Wyner—founder of Willow Family Health and program chair of Marriage & Family Therapy at the Chicago School—about what ADHD really is (and isn’t).

Instead of just being about attention or hyperactivity, Dr. Josh reframes ADHD as a difference in emotional tagging: how our brains assign value to choices and stimuli. Together, they explore how ADHD overlaps with trauma and PTSD, why misdiagnosis is so common, and how acceptance and context can transform how we understand neurodivergence.

✨ What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Why ADHD is more about emotional regulation than distraction

• How trauma symptoms can mimic ADHD and complicate diagnosis

• The difference between demoralization and depression in ADHD clients

• What partners and families can do to support neurodivergent loved ones

• Why embracing ADHD matters more than “fixing” it

🌱 Episode takeaway:
“ADHD isn’t broken attention—it’s a different way of being in the world. The real issue is often the structures around us, not the person.”

🔗 Connect with Dr. Josh Wyner:

• Website: joshuawyner.com

• Email: [email protected]

• TikTok: @drjoshuawyner

• Instagram: @drjoshuawyner

• YouTube: Dr. Joshua Wyner

  
  

🔗 Learn more & register for SCRIPT Conference: ⁠⁠thescriptconference.com⁠

Visit MenHealing at: www.menhealing.org