Quantum Mental Health by Kelli Ritter, PhD

March 18, 2026 E51 The Single Most Important Aspect of Parenting You’re Not Thinking About with Ben Pargman

Listener Note:

This episode includes discussion of suicide and may be sensitive for some listeners. Please listen with care and take breaks if needed.

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In this meaningful and heartfelt conversation, Dr. Kelli is joined by Ben Pargman, a father who lost his son Manny to suicide in 2024.

Ben does not approach this work as a clinician or researcher, but as a parent whose life was forever changed by loss—and who has chosen to turn that loss into action.

Following Manny’s death, Ben and his family created Manny’s Band, a foundation dedicated to preventing teen suicide by closing the gap between awareness and action. Their mission is to equip families, friends, and communities with practical skills so they don’t miss the signs of someone struggling—or the opportunity to help before it’s too late.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The single most important aspect of parenting that often goes overlooked

• Manny’s legacy and the heart behind Manny’s Band

• Why awareness alone is not enough when it comes to suicide prevention

• How families and communities can get involved

• The importance of connection, conversation, and shared responsibility

• Practical ways to support someone who may be struggling

This conversation is not about fear—it’s about connection, awareness, and showing up for one another in real and meaningful ways.

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Learn More + Get Involved

Manny’s Band Foundation:

https://mannysband.org

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If You or Someone You Know Needs Support

If you or someone you love is struggling, you are not alone. Support is available:

• Call or text 988 (U.S. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)

• Chat via 988lifeline.org

• Text HOME to 741741 (Crisis Text Line)

• If you are in immediate danger, call 911

If you are outside the U.S., you can find international helplines here:

https://www.opencounseling.com/suicide-hotlines

Connect with Dr. Kelli

Want to learn more about quantum mental health and anxiety recovery?

Courses: https://www.anxiety-recovery.com/courses

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_kelli

Website: https://www.anxiety-recovery.com/

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Disclaimer

This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical or mental health care. Please consult your healthcare provider for your specific needs.

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