Before we start the episode I need to set a disclaimer. This conversation walks through a man’s journey with mental health including topics such as depression, anger, and suicide. This is why this episode is marked explicit. This conversation goes to some dark places, but with the intention of showcasing the rawness of the journey, and the realness of the redemption from it. There is no judgement if you must skip this episode. Please take care of yourself.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or a crisis, please reach out immediately to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.

Hey man, how you doing?

A simple question, which usually is followed by a simple answer:

I’m good man.

This conversational dance is almost hardwired into society at this point.

Now, like an extension of saying “hello”, the “how are you” question and the “I’m good” response have become just another step in the choreography of light conversation.

There are obvious variations of how to respond to this:

When it’s a normal day. I’m Good

When we are struggling. I’m holding it together

When we are in pain. Could be worse

When we want to complain. Can’t complain, wouldn’t help anyway.

Granted, the question itself is not designed for the long form answer, usually asked in passing, or on the go. It’s largely just a courtesy at this point.

But then, what if we aren’t good?

What if we aren’t holding it together?

What if it feels like it’s gotten worse?

And what if we need the time and space to complain, and be heard?

Is anyone listening?

Hi, my name is Ryan Guerra and this is a Father’s Voice. And today I talk with Michael Lopez. Michael is someone I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know over the previous year. We had connected through a bible study at my church, and then also talked some about season 1 of this podcast and how it was helpful and encouraging for him. I knew some of his story, and I knew early on that I believed his story would bring value to father’s lives everywhere, and I’m thankful he said yes to being interviewed.

My vision for season 1 was about interviewing great fathers I knew and hearing how they became who they are. My vision for Season 2 is about interviewing father’s who have come through hardship, and are still standing. This season is for the warriors, the heroes. This season is for the ones who took the challenge of fatherhood, and fought, and continue to fight, hard for their family.

Michael has gone through it, and through the grace of God, still lives to tell his story today.

My conversation with him today is a very dark one. We discuss in detail about his depression, his anger, and his plans for taking of his own life.

But, every hero’s journey has a redemption arc. And for Michael we discuss how at the brink of ending it all, God got ahold of his heart, reignited his passion for life, and started a long process of healing that birthed out the man who is a leader in my church and at his work, a compassionate individual, and a role model for men struggling with mental health issues everywhere.

Michael is not shy about his struggles, and we go into vivid detail of them. I want to warn you that this conversation will get difficult to hear, but I’m proud and thankful that Michael shared his struggles with me, because along with hearing of his struggles, we get to experience his victories. Of which there are many.

I am honored to have him on the show, and so I present to you, my conversation with Michael Lopez.

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