In this episode, Deborah Lee Smith engages in a deep conversation with Brianna Brown Keen about the complexities of mental health, particularly in the entertainment industry. They explore the importance of faith (whatever that means to you), the need for emotional validation, and the impact of trauma on personal growth. Brianna shares her experiences working with single mothers through her nonprofit, The New Hollywood, emphasizing the importance of community support and breaking generational patterns.

The discussion also touches on self-care, the challenges of navigating life changes, and the significance of surrounding oneself with positive influences. The episode concludes with rapid-fire questions that reveal personal insights and reflections.

Interested in donating to The New Hollywood to help single mothers? Click here!

Check out the book she mentioned: You Can Heal Your Life.

More about Brianna Brown Keen:

With over 350 screen credits, she’s known for standout roles on Homeland, General Hospital, Devious Maids, Dynasty, and Netflix’s Outer Banks. Beyond acting, Brianna produces socially conscious projects that spotlight stories meant to inspire, uplift, and ignite change. She is currently producing the feature film Crutches alongside her husband, Richie Keen.As founder and CEO of The New Hollywood (est. 2006), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Brianna empowers storytellers and change makers through goals, grants, and mentorship. Her TNH Accountability Program Supports formerly homeless single moms by providing the tools and resources they need to rebuild their lives. Guided by the motto “Rise Higher, Shine Brighter & Give Back,” the nonprofit has made a lasting impact on individuals and communities for nineteen years. In 2025, she directed, produced, and performed in the TNH Renaissance Benefit, furthering the organization’s mission through singing, dancing and community. Brianna is also the creator of Manifesting Your Mission—a transformational platform that includes guidebooks, courses, workshops, retreats, coaching, and a podcast. Her signature keynote, Manifesting Your Mission: How to Marry Creativity with Productivity to Create a Life You Love, has inspired audiences nationwide. She helps artists, entrepreneurs, and mission-driven leaders take aligned action toward their dreams, speaking passionately at the intersection of purpose, productivity, and personal power. Her talks are known for their warmth, humor, and real-world resonance.A certified Reiki 2 practitioner, Brianna incorporates energy work into her holistic approach to creativity, leadership, and personal growth. Also a proud Minnesota native, Brianna serves as a Chair Ambassador for the National Women’s History Museum, continuing her commitment to amplify women’s voices, leadership, and legacies. 

www.manifestingyourmission.org

www.briannabrownkeen.com

Thank you for being part of this MTYS community!

Join us on social media:⁠⁠ Instagram⁠⁠| ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Tik Tok⁠⁠ | ⁠YouTube⁠

_______________________ 

Learn more about Deborah Lee Smith:

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⁠⁠⁠⁠~NEWSLETTER SIGN UP~⁠⁠⁠

Learn more about Shelley Regner:

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~

New here? More Than You See strips away the highlight reels to reveal the real mental health journeys of actors, artists, and creatives. Hosts Deborah Lee Smith and Shelley Regner ask the questions others avoid — exploring what was happening off stage when life looked perfect, and how depression, anxiety, and resilience shaped the people we admire.

Each episode also brings a dose of “good news” in mental health: uplifting stories, new research, and cultural shifts that remind us progress is happening. Come for the unfiltered confessions, stay for the hope, and leave knowing you’re not alone.

In this episode of 'More Than You See', Deborah Lee Smith and Shelley Regner talk about the emotional rollercoaster of finishing a huge acting gig and how that impacts well-being.

They discuss navigating life transitions, coping with grief, and the significance of sharing personal stories to foster connection and understanding. The episode also ends with three positive mental health news stories for the week!

Chapters

00:00 Navigating Emotional Turmoil in the Acting Profession

03:42 The Addiction Cycle of Acting

06:47 Intentional Living and Career Choices

09:19 The Pressure of Decision-Making

12:24 Finding Purpose Beyond Self

14:54 Coping with Grief and Loss

17:40 The Importance of Naming Emotions

20:28 Reflections on Personal Experiences and Growth

29:48 Navigating Postpartum Trauma and Communication

32:10 Mental Health Statistics and Societal Impact

34:04 The Importance of Sharing Personal Stories

38:54 The Role of Connection in Mental Well-being

41:56 Positive Mental Health Stories and Nature's Impact

44:50 Climate Change Anxiety and Positive Actions

48:06 Finding Balance and Acts of Service

Thank you for being part of this MTYS community!

Join us on social media:⁠⁠ Instagram⁠⁠| ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Tik Tok⁠⁠ | ⁠YouTube⁠

_______________________ 

Learn more about Deborah Lee Smith:

 ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠~NEWSLETTER SIGN UP~⁠⁠⁠

Learn more about Shelley Regner:

⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠

~

New here? More Than You See strips away the highlight reels to reveal the real mental health journeys of actors, artists, and creatives. Hosts Deborah Lee Smith and Shelley Regner ask the questions others avoid — exploring what was happening off stage when life looked perfect, and how depression, anxiety, and resilience shaped the people we admire.

Each episode also brings a dose of “good news” in mental health: uplifting stories, new research, and cultural shifts that remind us progress is happening. Come for the unfiltered confessions, stay for the hope, and leave knowing you’re not alone.

In this episode, Deborah shares her struggles with perfectionism and the pressure to present a polished version of herself in her podcast. She introduces the 'Fuck It' series, emphasizing the importance of embracing imperfection and allowing oneself to be authentic. Deborah reflects on her long workday and the challenge of prioritizing self-care over productivity. She encourages listeners to recognize that taking breaks and doing nothing can be just as productive as work, highlighting the need for mental health and relaxation in our busy lives.

Chapters:

00:00 Embracing Imperfection in Podcasting

02:53 The Importance of Self-Care and Downtime

-----------------

Thank you for being part of this MTYS community! ~Join us on social media:Instagram: HTTP://www.instagram.com/morethan_youseeFacebook: HTTP://www.facebook.com/MTYSMentalHealthWebsite: HTTP://www.morethan-yousee.comLearn more about Deborah Lee Smith:Instagram: HTTP://www.instagram.com/deborah_lsmith Facebook: HTTP://www.facebook.com/debnextdoor Website: HTTP://www.deborahsmith.me~NEWSLETTER SIGN UP~ HTTP://morethan-yousee.com~New here? More Than You See strips away the highlight reels to reveal the real mental health journeys of actors, artists, and creatives. Hosts Deborah Lee Smith and Shelley Regner ask the questions others avoid — exploring what was happening off stage when life looked perfect, and how depression, anxiety, and resilience shaped the people we admire.

Each episode also brings a dose of “good news” in mental health: uplifting stories, new research, and cultural shifts that remind us progress is happening. Come for the unfiltered confessions, stay for the hope, and leave knowing you’re not alone.

It's true, none of us make it out alive, so what actually matters in the grand scheme of things?

In this candid 6th episode of Season 6 of More Than You See, Deb and Shelley delve into their personal mental health journeys and the challenges they face. They discuss the impact of grief, the questions of what truly matters, and the evolving dreams and goals in life.

Together, they explore the importance of setting boundaries, speaking up for oneself, and finding joy in everyday moments. Tune in for an honest conversation about navigating life's ups and downs, all while building a sense of community and connection.

01:11 Reflecting on Past Episodes and Podcast Inspirations

03:44 The Habit of Consuming Content and Its Impact

06:42 The Loneliness Paradox in Social Settings

07:40 Navigating Grief and Emotional Processing

11:26 Childhood Chores and Their Impact on Adulthood

23:32 Balancing Dreams and Life's Practicalities

28:18 Pursuing the Dream of Musicals

28:46 Questioning the Path Forward

30:30 The Struggles of Depression

32:28 The Excitement and Fear of Acting

34:16 The Love-Hate Relationship with the Industry

39:02 The Impact of AI on Human Experience

41:41 Setting Boundaries and Self-Advocacy

47:01 Balancing Personal and Professional Life

51:30 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

If this episode resonates with you, please share it with your friends, subscribe, write a review, etc! It really does help spread the word of mouth!

Thank you for being part of this MTYS community!

Join us on social media:⁠ Instagram⁠| ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Website⁠ | ⁠Tik Tok⁠ | YouTube

_______________________ 

Learn more about Deborah Lee Smith:

 ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠~NEWSLETTER SIGN UP~⁠⁠

Learn more about Shelley Regner:

⁠Instagram⁠

~

New here? Join us, Deborah Lee Smith (actor, filmmaker, and mental health advocate) and Shelley Regner (actor, singer, mental health advocate) for a conversation every Tuesday with creatives about their mental health journeys. We discuss the highs, lows, and in-betweens of a creative career and the tools they use to get through it all.

Then join us for a very special bonus episode every Thursday where Deb & Shelley give a little peak behind the curtain of their lives, sharing their own mental health check-in, tools, and more!

Our hope is that you will resonate with their journey, pick up some tips and tricks for your own mental health, and most importantly, feel a little less alone. Because we’re all More Than You See.

In this episode of More Than You See, Shelley and Deborah have an in-depth and personal conversation with actor Matt Shively.

Known for his roles in 'True Jackson, VP,' 'The Real O'Neals,' and 'Lopez vs Lopez,' Matt opens up about his journey as a child actor, the high expectations he placed on himself, and the numerous challenges he faced.

He reflects on his battles with mental health and the importance of therapy. Matt also discusses the transformative power of theater, his favorite books that have influenced his life, and his current creative projects.

Join us for an insightful discussion full of honesty, growth, and inspiration.

00:52 Welcome to More Than You See

01:20 Introducing Matt Shively

01:56 Matt's Career Journey and Mental Health

03:30 Coping with Industry Ups and Downs

07:04 The Reality of Being a Child Actor

11:29 Reflections on Growth and Learning

19:06 High School Memories and Ego Checks

29:08 The Thrill of Live Performance

29:26 The Power of Theater in Human Connection

32:30 The Impact of Early Childhood on Mental Health

34:21 Navigating Men's Mental Health

36:51 Embracing Personal Growth and Therapy

41:08 Setting Intentional Life Goals

42:44 The Joy of Reading and Writing

50:47 Rapid Fire Questions and Reflections

52:30 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Follow Matt on Instagram

If this episode resonates with you, please share it with your friends, subscribe, write a review, etc! It really does help spread the word of mouth!

Thank you for being part of this MTYS community!

Join us on social media:⁠ Instagram⁠| ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Website⁠ | ⁠Tik Tok⁠ | YouTube

_______________________ 

Learn more about Deborah Lee Smith:

 ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠~NEWSLETTER SIGN UP~⁠⁠

Learn more about Shelley Regner:

⁠Instagram⁠

~

New here? Join us, Deborah Lee Smith (actor, filmmaker, and mental health advocate) and Shelley Regner (actor, singer, mental health advocate) for a conversation every Tuesday with creatives about their mental health journeys. We discuss the highs, lows, and in-betweens of a creative career and the tools they use to get through it all.

Then join us for a very special bonus episode every Thursday where Deb & Shelley give a little peak behind the curtain of their lives, sharing their own mental health check-in, tools, and more!

Our hope is that you will resonate with their journey, pick up some tips and tricks for your own mental health, and most importantly, feel a little less alone. Because we’re all More Than You See.

In this week's solo bonus episode of More Than You See with Shelley Regner, we dive into coping with the mental hurdles that come with any job, even when it's something you love.

This week, Shelley shares her struggles and victories as she starts rehearsals for a new musical. She discusses how to manage self-criticism, the importance of taking breaks, and tools to help your mental health journey.

01:09 New Job Excitement

01:53 Facing the Inner Critic

03:16 Pushing Through Challenges

05:10 Taking Breaks and Self-Care

06:19 Final Thoughts and Reminders

If this episode resonates with you, please share it with your friends, subscribe, write a review, etc! It really does help spread the word of mouth!

Thank you for being part of this MTYS community!

Join us on social media:⁠ Instagram⁠| ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Website⁠ | ⁠Tik Tok⁠ | YouTube

_______________________ 

Learn more about Deborah Lee Smith:

 ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠~NEWSLETTER SIGN UP~⁠⁠

Learn more about Shelley Regner:

⁠Instagram⁠

~

New here? Join us, Deborah Lee Smith (actor, filmmaker, and mental health advocate) and Shelley Regner (actor, singer, mental health advocate) for a conversation every Tuesday with creatives about their mental health journeys. We discuss the highs, lows, and in-betweens of a creative career and the tools they use to get through it all.

Then join us for a very special bonus episode every Thursday where Deb & Shelley give a little peak behind the curtain of their lives, sharing their own mental health check-in, tools, and more!

Our hope is that you will resonate with their journey, pick up some tips and tricks for your own mental health, and most importantly, feel a little less alone. Because we’re all More Than You See.

In this episode of More Than You See, join Deborah and Shelley in this vulnerable heart-to-heart conversation as they contemplate their mental health journeys, discuss the origins and evolution of the 'More Than You See' podcast, and reflect on personal growth.

Deborah opens up about dealing with insecurities, the importance of community, and balancing professional ambitions with personal life.

They also discuss the essential factors that influence mental health and share personal anecdotes that highlight resilience, connection, and the continuous journey of self-improvement.

00:44 Welcome to More Than You See

02:35 Deborah's Mental Health Journey

03:29 Creating the Podcast

08:30 Challenges and Validation

19:01 Rebellion and Purpose

24:22 Reflecting on Personal Growth and Playfulness

25:49 Navigating Career and Life Challenges

26:19 Embracing Aesthetic Changes and Rebellion

28:31 Relationship Growth and Wisdom

33:07 Balancing Personal Goals and Family Life

36:52 Holistic Approach to Mental Health

43:36 The Importance of Problem-Solving Skills

45:14 Final Thoughts and Community Engagement

If this episode resonates with you, please share it with your friends, subscribe, write a review, etc! It really does help spread the word of mouth!

Thank you for being part of this MTYS community!

Join us on social media:⁠ Instagram⁠| ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Website⁠ | ⁠Tik Tok⁠ | YouTube

_______________________ 

Learn more about Deborah Lee Smith:

 ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠~NEWSLETTER SIGN UP~⁠⁠

Learn more about Shelley Regner:

⁠Instagram⁠

~

New here? Join us, Deborah Lee Smith (actor, filmmaker, and mental health advocate) and Shelley Regner (actor, singer, mental health advocate) for a conversation every Tuesday with creatives about their mental health journeys. We discuss the highs, lows, and in-betweens of a creative career and the tools they use to get through it all.

Then join us for a very special bonus episode every Thursday where Deb & Shelley give a little peak behind the curtain of their lives, sharing their own mental health check-in, tools, and more!

Our hope is that you will resonate with their journey, pick up some tips and tricks for your own mental health, and most importantly, feel a little less alone. Because we’re all More Than You See.

In this week's solo bonus episode of More Than You See, Deborah discusses what it's like to live with "Mom Brain" and the physical changes in the brain that occur when becoming a mom. She shares her struggles with managing multiple tasks, focusing, and prioritizing self-care.

00:44 Understanding Mom Brain

03:12 Too Many Browser Tabs

05:40 Staying Accountable

06:38 Conclusion

If this episode resonates with you, please share it with your friends, subscribe, write a review, etc! It really does help spread the word of mouth!

Thank you for being part of this MTYS community!

Join us on social media:⁠ Instagram⁠| ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Website⁠ | ⁠Tik Tok⁠ | YouTube

_______________________ 

Learn more about Deborah Lee Smith:

 ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠~NEWSLETTER SIGN UP~⁠⁠

Learn more about Shelley Regner:

⁠Instagram⁠

~

New here? Join us, Deborah Lee Smith (actor, filmmaker, and mental health advocate) and Shelley Regner (actor, singer, mental health advocate) for a conversation every Tuesday with creatives about their mental health journeys. We discuss the highs, lows, and in-betweens of a creative career and the tools they use to get through it all.

Then join us for a very special bonus episode every Thursday where Deb & Shelley give a little peak behind the curtain of their lives, sharing their own mental health check-in, tools, and more!

Our hope is that you will resonate with their journey, pick up some tips and tricks for your own mental health, and most importantly, feel a little less alone. Because we’re all More Than You See.

In Episode 3 of Season 6 of the More Than You See Podcast, Deborah and Shelley have a fascinating discussion with young actress Vivien Lyra Blair.

Vivien Lyra Blair is a 12-year-old actor from Los Angeles best known for her roles as Sawyer in the Stephen King summer theatrical hit The Boogeyman (2023), and Princess Leia in Obi-Wan Kenobi (2022). Vivien also starred in 2 of the top 5 most watched movies of all time on Netflix - We Can Be Heroes (2020), and Bird Box (2018). Her latest film Goodrich with Michael Keaton premiered in theaters October 2024.

Vivien shares her unique experiences growing up in the entertainment industry, the pressures she faces, and how she manages her mental health. She also discusses her hobbies, her love for fostering cats, and her aspirations in psychology. This insightful conversation provides valuable perspectives on balancing a young acting career with personal growth and well-being.

01:49 Welcome to More Than You See

02:10 Introducing Viv

02:39 Vivien's Acting Journey

03:09 Balancing School and Acting

06:04 Dealing with Fame and Expectations

11:28 Support Systems and Inspirations

19:14 Emotional Support and Future Aspirations

26:14 Dealing with Cyberbullying

27:08 Funny Encounters and Mean Comments

29:26 Navigating the Slow Industry

31:51 Exploring Hobbies: Piano and Aerial Silks

34:02 Advice for Trying New Things

35:57 Fun Facts and Personal Insights

38:02 Comfort Activities and Self-Care

39:07 Final Thoughts and Reflections

If this episode resonates with you, please share it with your friends, subscribe, write a review, etc! It really does help spread the word of mouth!

Thank you for being part of this MTYS community!

Join us on social media:⁠ Instagram⁠| ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Website⁠ | ⁠Tik Tok⁠ | YouTube

_______________________ 

Learn more about Deborah Lee Smith:

 ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠~NEWSLETTER SIGN UP~⁠⁠

Learn more about Shelley Regner:

⁠Instagram⁠

~

New here? Join us, Deborah Lee Smith (actor, filmmaker, and mental health advocate) and Shelley Regner (actor, singer, mental health advocate) for a conversation every Tuesday with creatives about their mental health journeys. We discuss the highs, lows, and in-betweens of a creative career and the tools they use to get through it all.

Then join us for a very special bonus episode every Thursday where Deb & Shelley give a little peak behind the curtain of their lives, sharing their own mental health check-in, tools, and more!

Our hope is that you will resonate with their journey, pick up some tips and tricks for your own mental health, and most importantly, feel a little less alone. Because we’re all More Than You See.

Welcome back to More Than You See Season 6! Join Shelley in this solo bonus episode as she candidly shares her recent experiences navigating heartbreak, overwhelming schedules, and personal struggles. Shelley opens up about her busy week, providing relatable insights on dealing with stress, the importance of staying present, and the role of self-care. Despite the chaos, Shelley finds ways to stay grounded, offering practical tips and encouraging us all to carve out moments for ourselves, no matter how messy life gets. Tune in for a heartfelt episode that reminds us to breathe, take pauses, and remember that everyone is More Than You See.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:37 Shelley's Personal Struggles

01:35 Coping Mechanisms and Breathing Exercise

02:55 Daily Life Challenges

07:08 Self-Care and Mental Health Tips

10:58 Conclusion and Farewell

If this episode resonates with you, please share it with your friends, subscribe, write a review, etc! It really does help spread the word of mouth!

Thank you for being part of this MTYS community!

Join us on social media:⁠ Instagram⁠| ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Website⁠ | ⁠Tik Tok⁠ | YouTube

_______________________ 

Learn more about Deborah Lee Smith:

 ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠~NEWSLETTER SIGN UP~⁠⁠

Learn more about Shelley Regner:

⁠Instagram⁠

~

New here? Join us, Deborah Lee Smith (actor, filmmaker, and mental health advocate) and Shelley Regner (actor, singer, mental health advocate) for a conversation every Tuesday with creatives about their mental health journeys. We discuss the highs, lows, and in-betweens of a creative career and the tools they use to get through it all.

Then join us for a very special bonus episode every Thursday where Deb & Shelley give a little peak behind the curtain of their lives, sharing their own mental health check-in, tools, and more!

Our hope is that you will resonate with their journey, pick up some tips and tricks for your own mental health, and most importantly, feel a little less alone. Because we’re all More Than You See.