Mental Man Monday is back after the explosive Season 8 finale, and this week’s episode delivers a deep dive into hustle culture, validation-seeking, and shocking moments from pop culture that tie back to mental health. From LiAngelo Ball’s unexpected rise in music to Skip Bayless’ controversial headlines, we tackle it all with raw, unfiltered conversations.
Episode Highlights:

• Breaking the Hustle Curse: Revisiting key lessons from the Season 8 finale, we unpack the dangers of hustle culture and the validation trap. Using scriptures like Matthew 11:28-30 and Isaiah 43:18-19, Izzy explains why letting go of the grind and trusting God’s timing can lead to breakthroughs in 2025.
• LiAngelo Ball’s Viral Song: LiAngelo’s surprise music debut has taken social media by storm, drawing comparisons to Tekashi 6ix9ine’s rise. Record labels are reportedly fighting to sign him, but is this the start of a music career or a fleeting moment? We explore the lessons about pivoting, staying open to opportunities, and redefining success.
• Skip Bayless’ Legal Drama: Skip Bayless finds himself at the center of controversy with a $1.5M lawsuit. Izzy dives into the pitfalls of fame, power, and unchecked ambition, discussing how these factors often cloud judgment and lead to self-sabotage.

Key Takeaways:

• Validation vs. Fulfillment: Why seeking approval from others holds you back and how to find fulfillment through faith and purpose.
• The Power of the Pivot: How unexpected opportunities, like LiAngelo’s music debut, can lead to career transformations.
• Accountability and Growth: How unchecked ambition and fame can lead to poor decision-making, and why staying grounded is essential for mental and spiritual health.

What It Means for Mental Health:
This episode isn’t just about pop culture. It’s about what these stories teach us about mental health, self-worth, and breaking free from toxic cycles. Whether it’s the pressure to hustle or the dangers of chasing fame, Izzy offers insights that can help you align your actions with your purpose.

Tune in to gain practical tools for navigating life’s challenges while preparing for a successful 2025 rooted in faith, balance, and clarity.

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In the Season 8 finale of PSA: The Mental Health Podcast, Izzy brings the heat with a transformative discussion on hustle culture, validation addiction, and finding alignment with your God-given purpose. This episode is packed with hard-hitting truths, actionable insights, and personal anecdotes that will push you to rethink your approach to success and self-worth. If you’re ready to make 2025 your breakthrough year, this episode is your blueprint.
💡 Key Topics:

• Validation Addiction: How chasing approval is like chasing a high and why self-validation rooted in faith is the ultimate game-changer.
• Hustle With Purpose: The difference between hustling for a season versus making it your entire identity—and how the latter destroys mental health.
• Letting Go of Toxic Ties: The courage to leave environments, friendships, and habits that block your growth.
• Biblical Wisdom: Isaiah 43:18-19 and Matthew 11:28-30 reveal how God creates new paths when we stop holding on to the past.
• Lessons From Tyler Perry: Learn from Tyler Perry’s focus and resilience in the face of criticism.

🎙 Episode Highlights:

• Izzy shares a raw personal story about an opportunity that redefined his understanding of hustling with intention.
• Case studies featuring Tiphani Montgomery, Cjay Syre, and Ayana Yvonne unpack the role of consistency, purpose, and faith in breaking free from hustle culture.
• Evidence from Harvard Business Review and Talkspace highlights the toll hustle culture takes on mental health, from burnout to perfectionism.

📖 Mental Health Matters:

This episode bridges the gap between hustle culture and mental health, exploring how unchecked ambition and external validation lead to stress, poor decision-making, and diminished self-esteem.

This powerful season finale challenges the status quo and inspires listeners to realign their goals through faith, balance, and intentional living. Whether you’re navigating hustle culture, validation, or seeking clarity for 2025, this episode is your guide to stepping into a new season with purpose and peace.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/p-s-a-the-mental-health-podcast--5520511/support.

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In this powerful audio finale of Mental Man Monday, Izzy wraps up 2024 with an unfiltered discussion about hustle culture, faith, and navigating the mental health challenges that come with striving for success. Joined by special guest CEO Mikey (from Season 7), this episode takes a deep dive into the cultural moments that shaped the year and how they relate to masculinity, discipline, and mental well-being.

🔥 What to Expect:

• 🛑 The Problem with Hustle Culture: Why grinding non-stop harms mental health and distracts from trusting God’s plan.
• 🐦 Elon Musk on Kindness: Izzy and Mikey break down Musk’s tweet and the role of discipline in shaping your online experience.
• 🎤 Charleston White vs. Angel Reese: A heated discussion on toxic masculinity, clout-chasing, and Angel Reese’s impact on women’s basketball.

💡 Key Takeaways:

• How hustle culture affects your spiritual and mental health.
• Practical ways to set boundaries online and protect your peace.
• Why redefining masculinity is essential for mental health.

With humor, honesty, and raw insights, this episode is a call to action for men to reevaluate their priorities, let go of toxic habits, and enter 2025 stronger in faith and purpose.

Question: Are you ready to leave hustle culture behind and embrace God’s plan for your life?

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/p-s-a-the-mental-health-podcast--5520511/support.

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In this thought-provoking episode, & the first part of "Breaking the Hustle Curse Part 1," Izzy sits down with leadership and healing coach Denise Lee to dissect hustle culture, the weight of societal pressures, and how to redefine success in today’s world. Whether you're grinding for the next big thing or questioning if the grind is even worth it, this episode dives into the heart of why we hustle and how it impacts our mental health.

💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

🛑 The Real Cost of Hustle Culture
Denise breaks down how the “never sleep” mentality leads to burnout, chronic stress, and even depression. Why do we feel guilty for resting? And how can we break free from the toxic cycle of overworking without feeling like we’re falling behind?

💭 The Difference Between Being Rich and Wealthy
Is chasing money the same as building wealth? We dive into what the Bible says about wealth and why success is more about alignment than accumulation. Spoiler: Proverbs 10:22 says God’s blessing adds riches without sorrow.

🎧 Artists, Influence, and Our Mental Health
From Sexyy Red to Cardi B and Young Thug, we explore how today's music, which glorifies sex, drugs, and violence, is shaping the mentalities of young men. Denise unpacks how these cultural norms play into self-worth and the pressure to chase the bag at any cost.

🏋🏾‍♂️ Breaking Free and Building Balance
Whether you're an entrepreneur tempted to return to a secure 9-to-5 or someone struggling with the fear of failure, this episode offers actionable tips to redefine what winning looks like. Denise shares her “aha” moment and how she helps others prioritize well-being without sacrificing ambition.

Key Question: Is chasing the bag keeping you from real peace and purpose?

This episode isn’t just a wake-up call; it’s a guide to transforming hustle into harmony. If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing everything right but still coming up short, hit play and find out why slowing down might be your biggest breakthrough yet.

Denise's Social Media
X: https://x.com/deniseglee
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/deniseglee/
Website: https://deniseglee.com/

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🎯 Level up your professional development influence with the TrustBuilder Package — a social media strategy designed to position you as a thought leader in your space. From authority-building content to engagement that actually converts, we make sure your message doesn’t just get seen… it gets respected. Perfect for personal brands looking to grow their presence and impact. Legacy Launchpad


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This week on Mental Man Monday, Izzy is joined by his good friend Myron aka RA-MY, an upcoming singer and songwriter, for a candid conversation about relationships, fame, and mental health. Together, they tackle trending topics and dive deep into the cultural norms that impact young men today.

Highlights:
1️⃣ Rod Wave: How vulnerability in music connects deeply with listeners.
2️⃣ Travis Hunter: Ignoring red flags and the pressure of public scrutiny in relationships.
3️⃣ Cam Newton: Toxic masculinity and why men compete for validation in strip clubs.

Takeaways:

• The emotional toll of ignoring red flags in relationships.
• Why seeking validation from others can harm your mental health.
• The pressures of fame and public judgment on young men.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/p-s-a-the-mental-health-podcast--5520511/support.

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🚀 Build your podcast — and your influence — from the ground up with the Legacy Launchpad. We handle everything: strategy, branding, production, and promotion, so you can focus on delivering value. Designed for personal and professional development influencers who want their voice amplified, their brand elevated, and their legacy secured in the digital space.

🎙️ “You can have growth and control, but you can’t have both.”

In this powerful episode, Eddie V, founder of Hunger Breeds Success, discusses the intersection of faith, mental resilience, and overcoming life’s toughest challenges. Inspired by With the Perrys podcast episode Social Media Break, Slander, and Sanctification, we dive deep into what it means to let God take complete control—even when everything is falling apart.
💡 What to Expect:

• 🛑 The Dangers of Control: Why God sometimes forces His way into control when we resist surrender.
• 🙏 Overcoming Suicidal Thoughts: A candid conversation about how faith and prayer can provide hope in the darkest moments.
• 🎁 Happy Hour: Kicking off the episode with a thought-provoking discussion on the dangers of becoming obsessive over Christmas gifts—and why materialism can harm your mental health.
• 🏋🏾 Faith and Discipline: Eddie V shares how physical health ties directly to mental toughness and how his brand, Hunger Breeds Success, helps young men develop the mental resilience needed to face life’s obstacles.

Eddie V opens up about his upbringing in Rhode Island, the challenges of navigating personal hardships, and how God gave him the vision for Hunger Breeds Success, a movement focused on empowering others to find strength through discipline, faith, and perseverance.

Key Moments:

• “The difficulty is the mercy.” - Jackie Hill Perry. Discover how life’s hardest moments are often God’s way of preparing you for what’s next.
• “The heart of control is pride.” Why learning to trust God’s plan is critical for growth.

This episode challenges the idea that we can maintain control and still grow. Instead, we explore how surrendering to God’s will—even when uncomfortable—is the only path to true freedom and success.

Eddie's Social Media
Instagram: @hungerbreedssuccess
 Website: hungerbreedssuccess.com

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/p-s-a-the-mental-health-podcast--5520511/support.

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This week’s Mental Man Monday Live Stream brings another thought-provoking solo episode as Izzy dives deep into balancing fun and discipline, a potential corporate cover-up, and shocking allegations in the entertainment industry. Izzy starts by revisiting his latest podcast episode, focusing on the importance of “missing out on fun.” Whether it’s skipping the club scene or curbing late-night Amazon binges, he challenges listeners to rethink their definition of fun. The message?

Staying back from constant excess can lead to greater clarity, discipline, and peace.The conversation shifts to the mysterious death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. While authorities claim to have found his assassin, Izzy questions the official story. Could this be part of a larger conspiracy to silence Thompson before he exposed dangerous industry secrets? Izzy examines the loose ends and missing pieces, urging his audience to dig deeper and not accept surface-level narratives.

Finally, Izzy tackles one of the week’s most controversial stories: Jay-Z’s defense against allegations of misconduct with a 13-year-old girl at the 2000 MTV VMAs. Jay-Z has publicly denied the claims, emphasizing their impact on his family, particularly his daughter, Blue Ivy. Izzy explores the nuances of the situation, stressing the importance of grace and accountability. He critiques the culture of silence in powerful circles, reminding viewers that justice eventually comes for everyone. Through these conversations, Izzy weaves in powerful mental health reflections, from the toll of public accusations to the importance of integrity and self-discipline. This episode is a must-watch for those ready to dive into complex topics with an open mind and a willingness to engage in meaningful discussion.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/p-s-a-the-mental-health-podcast--5520511/support.

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🚀 Build your podcast — and your influence — from the ground up with the Legacy Launchpad. We handle everything: strategy, branding, production, and promotion, so you can focus on delivering value. Designed for personal and professional development influencers who want their voice amplified, their brand elevated, and their legacy secured in the digital space.

In this solo episode of PSA: The Mental Health Podcast, Izzy Baker delivers a thought-provoking take on the importance of missing out on fun—and why sometimes stepping back is exactly what your mental health and future need. Starting with a lighthearted yet sharp critique of “Happy Hour culture,” Izzy dives into the dynamics of fun, discipline, and judgment in today’s society.
🔥 Key Highlights:

1️⃣ Happy Hour & Haters:
Izzy opens the episode by addressing those who criticize club-goers every weekend while conveniently ignoring their own questionable habits—like staying home, bingeing on Amazon, smoking weed, living off Uber Eats, or engaging in casual flings. “You're no better if you’re sitting at home Uber Eating and smoking weed than someone at the club every weekend in their 20s. At least that’s age-appropriate for the world.”

2️⃣ The Need to Miss Out:
With the new year on the horizon, Izzy challenges listeners to evaluate how they spend their time. He explores how intentionally missing out on fun can boost creativity, help you lock in on your goals, and prepare for a better future. If you’re planning your 2024 goals now, newsflash: you’re already late!

3️⃣ The Impact of FOMO:
Izzy discusses the mental health effects of the “Fear of Missing Out,” how it keeps us stuck in comparison mode, and why it’s time to embrace discipline over distraction.

4️⃣ What Does the Bible Say About Fun?
Diving into scriptures like 1 Corinthians 8:8, Colossians 3:17, and 1 Corinthians 9:19, Izzy explores the delicate balance of fun and faith. Fun isn’t a sin, but how you engage in it matters.

💡 Mental Health Takeaways:

• Missing out on fun doesn’t make you boring—it makes you intentional.
• Social judgment often reveals more about the critic than the one being judged.
• Prioritizing long-term goals is essential for growth.

This episode is a wake-up call to anyone stuck in the cycle of judgment, distraction, or misplaced priorities.🎙️ How do you plan to prioritize yourself over “fun” as we close out the year?#MentalHealth #PSAPodcast #FOMO #DisciplineOverFun #NewYearGoals #SelfCare #FaithAndFun #IntentionalLiving

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/p-s-a-the-mental-health-podcast--5520511/support.

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🚀 Build your podcast — and your influence — from the ground up with the Legacy Launchpad. We handle everything: strategy, branding, production, and promotion, so you can focus on delivering value. Designed for personal and professional development influencers who want their voice amplified, their brand elevated, and their legacy secured in the digital space.

This week on Mental Man Monday from PSA: The Mental Health Podcast, Izzy delivers a heartfelt solo livestream, reflecting on tough but necessary topics like holiday grief, seasonal depression, and headline-making celebrity moments. If you’re ready for honest discussions, thoughtful insights, and a touch of humor, this episode has it all.

Episode Highlights:

1️⃣ Holiday Grief & Seasonal Depression
Izzy revisits his in-studio conversation with Tay, host of the Talk With Tay Podcast, reflecting on the struggles of navigating grief during the holidays. While Tay shares his journey with loss, Izzy opens up about his own experience with depression and contrasts it with seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Together, they unpack how weather changes can impact moods and how to find peace in the midst of it all.

2️⃣ T.D. Jakes’ Health Scare
Izzy dives into T.D. Jakes’ recent health scare and the immense pressure of living in the public eye. He calls out the troubling trend of Christians celebrating another’s struggles, reminding listeners about grace and the humanity we all share. Drawing comparisons to Bishop Eddie Long, Izzy challenges listeners to reflect on their compassion and accountability.

3️⃣ Orlando Brown’s Outburst on Nick Cannon
Orlando Brown’s explosive comments about Nick Cannon during DeShay Frost’s livestream take center stage. Izzy breaks down the drama, highlighting the chaotic nature of celebrity culture and questioning why platforms continue to exploit vulnerable individuals.

Mental Health Takeaways:

• The importance of acknowledging and processing holiday grief.
• Understanding the triggers of seasonal depression.
• Extending grace and accountability to public figures and ourselves.
• How media influences our perceptions of celebrity struggles.

Question of the Day:
How do you cope with grief or seasonal depression during the holidays? Let’s connect and discuss!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/p-s-a-the-mental-health-podcast--5520511/support.

TrustBuilder Package
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🚀 Build your podcast — and your influence — from the ground up with the Legacy Launchpad. We handle everything: strategy, branding, production, and promotion, so you can focus on delivering value. Designed for personal and professional development influencers who want their voice amplified, their brand elevated, and their legacy secured in the digital space.

The holiday season isn’t a time of joy for everyone. For many, it’s a reminder of loss, loneliness, and struggles often hidden beneath the festive lights. In this heartfelt Thanksgiving Special, Izzy welcomes Tay from Detroit—host of Talk With Tay—to delve into the complex emotions that surface during the holidays, especially for young men navigating grief and seasonal depression.

Episode Highlights:
🎙️ The Silent Guest at the Table
Izzy and Tay kick off with humor, joking about Thanksgiving plates and nosy critics, but quickly pivot to a deep discussion on grief. Tay shares his experience of losing a parent, shedding light on the unique ways men process loss and why it’s okay not to “man up” during hard times. Grief doesn’t weaken you—it’s a part of healing.

🧠 Seasonal Depression and Self-Care
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) impacts mental, emotional, and physical health. The duo explores actionable strategies for combating SAD, including mindfulness, virtual connections, and honoring personal traditions. They remind listeners that small steps can make a big difference in regaining emotional balance.

🔥 Faith Over Fear
In a powerful segment, they unpack the concept of worry as misplaced worship, encouraging young men to lean into faith, gratitude, and intentionality. Tay emphasizes that replacing worry with purpose can create a path toward peace and mental clarity.

Why You Should Listen:
This episode dismantles the harmful narrative that men should suppress their emotions during difficult times. It’s a call to embrace vulnerability, build community, and prioritize mental health over societal expectations. Whether you’re navigating grief or struggling with seasonal depression, Tay and Izzy provide relatable advice, hope, and a reminder that you’re not alone.

Tune in now to discover practical tips for thriving this holiday season—and remember, it’s okay to not be okay.

Tay's Social Media
Instagram: @teegibbs___
YouTube: https @TalkWithTayPodcast
Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talk-with-tay/id1755524013

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/p-s-a-the-mental-health-podcast--5520511/support.

TrustBuilder Package
🎯 Level up your professional development influence with the TrustBuilder Package — a social media strategy designed to position you as a thought leader in your space. From authority-building content to engagement that actually converts, we make sure your message doesn’t just get seen… it gets respected. Perfect for personal brands looking to grow their presence and impact. Legacy Launchpad


🚀 Build your podcast — and your influence — from the ground up with the Legacy Launchpad. We handle everything: strategy, branding, production, and promotion, so you can focus on delivering value. Designed for personal and professional development influencers who want their voice amplified, their brand elevated, and their legacy secured in the digital space.