The Stepping In It Podcast with Renee Schulte & Jason Haglund

As 2024 winds down, we’re gearing up for an exciting year ahead in rural health policy and behavioral health advocacy. Join us for an episode packed with updates, insights, and plans for 2025. We’ll reflect on our nationwide speaking engagements—from North Dakota to Alaska—on topics like strategic planning, clinical pathways, and workplace mental health. Celebrate our podcast milestones, including 73 episodes and thousands of listeners, as we preview our goals for the coming year. Plus, we’ll dive into the hot topics in behavioral health we expect to dominate in 2025, including jail population challenges, Medicaid coverage for Community Health Workers, and the integration of behavioral health into primary care. This is your inside look at the evolving landscape of rural health!

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Master navigating the behavioral health system to support rural communities better.
• Discover the significance of grain bin investment and farm succession planning for rural prosperity.
• Uncover the keys to integrating behavioral health care effectively in rural areas.
• Learn how federal and state funding impacts the accessibility and quality of rural behavioral health services.
• Explore the vital roles of community health workers in enhancing behavioral health support in rural settings.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 - Introduction to the Stepping In podcast
00:01:12 - Celebrating a Family Farm Milestone
00:05:37 - Speaking Engagements and Travel Plans
00:09:50 - Expanded Reach and Exciting Opportunities
00:11:20 - Excitement for 2025
00:11:49 - Healthcare Integration in Rural America
00:13:12 - Advocacy and Policy Development
00:15:31 - Project Outlook for 2025
00:20:37 - Future of Podcast and Interviews
00:23:22 - Integrated Care and Behavioral Health
00:23:55 - Medicaid Billable Community Health Workers
00:25:30 - Emergency Department Behavioral Health Issues
00:26:15 - Funding Landscape and Medicaid
00:29:00 - Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers (CCBHCs) 

Connect with us: 

https://ruralpolicypartners.com/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/ 

https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners

https://www.youtube.com/@ruralpolicypartners

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/GHTGsqK_V9w 

What’s the secret to ensuring your strategic plan crashes and burns? In this episode, we tackle the most common pitfalls organizations face when planning for the future. From ignoring essential data and tracking the wrong metrics to writing reports no one reads, we explore how poor oversight and accountability can set you up to fail. We also dive into the costly consequences of neglecting contracts, skipping annual reporting, and justifying inaction with bad data. Whether you’re leading a nonprofit, business, or community initiative, this episode is packed with lessons on what not to do if you want to make 2025 a year of progress, not regret.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Mastering Strategic Planning for Nonprofits: Uncover the key to unlocking sustainable growth and impact for your organization.
• Harnessing the Power of Data in Strategic Planning: Discover how to make data-driven decisions that drive your organization's success.
• Achieving Accountability in Behavioral Health Services: Learn the essential steps to ensure accountability and quality in behavioral health services.
• Navigating Behavioral Health System Challenges: Explore effective strategies to overcome challenges and improve outcomes in the behavioral health system.
• Setting and Achieving Sustainable Goals: Unlock the secrets to setting and achieving sustainable goals that drive your organization forward.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 - Introduction to Behavioral Health Systems
00:03:53 - Why Strategic Planning is Important
00:08:26 - Challenges with Data Management
00:10:21 - Revising Key Performance Indicators
00:11:41 - Ensuring Sustainability in System Transformations
00:12:06 - Importance of Understanding Contracts
00:15:34 - Accountability and Sustainability Planning
00:17:29 - Accepting Responsibility and Financial Viability
00:21:43 - Accountability and Leadership Failures
00:23:02 - The Importance of Regular Measurement and Tracking
00:24:22 - Importance of Accountability and Goal Setting
00:25:34 - Adjusting Goals and Recognizing Seasonal Changes
00:26:38 - Personal Goal Setting and Self-Care
00:27:57 - Planning for Bigger Life Changes
00:29:39 - Avoiding Pitfalls and Learning from Mistakes 

Connect with us: 

https://ruralpolicypartners.com/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/ 

https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners

https://www.youtube.com/@ruralpolicypartners

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Jcz5UYDlbVk

Join us on a deep dive into the buzzworthy world of Community Health Care Workers (CHWs) as we explore their evolving role in rural healthcare! Recorded from Bowling Green, Kentucky—where the CHW model has been in motion for over 30 years—we'll unpack the origins, state certification processes, and Medicaid billing implications driving this workforce's rapid expansion. With insights from Kentucky, Iowa, and beyond, we examine how CHWs are bridging gaps in behavioral health, care coordination, and public health systems. Could CHWs be the future of healthcare delivery in rural America? Tune in to find out!

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Mastering the Art of Navigating Behavioral Health Systems: Learn how to effectively guide patients through the complexities of behavioral health services.
• Empowering Community Healthcare Workers through Tailored Training: Discover the key strategies for equipping community healthcare workers with the skills and knowledge they need to make a meaningful impact.
• Unveiling the Impact of Medicaid on Healthcare Access: Gain insights into how Medicaid influences healthcare access and what it means for both patients and providers.
• Tackling Rural Health Challenges with Innovative Solutions: Explore the unique obstacles faced in rural healthcare and uncover innovative solutions to address them.
• Fueling Workforce Development in Healthcare: Uncover the latest trends and strategies for building a skilled and resilient healthcare workforce.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 - Introducing Community Healthcare Workers
00:04:41 - Evolution of Community Health Workers
00:07:52 - Workforce Development and State Adoption
00:10:17 - Potential Bottlenecks and Sustainability
00:12:27 - Future Opportunities and Sustainability
00:13:10 - Medicaid and MCO Shuffle in Kentucky
00:14:12 - Expansion of Medicaid Services
00:15:33 - State Plan Amendment and Medicaid
00:17:49 - Implications for Behavioral Health
00:24:19 - Innovations in Healthcare
00:26:49 - The Need for Direction and Understanding in Healthcare
00:27:22 - Navigating Healthcare in Basic Jobs
00:28:08 - Importance of Connections During Christmas
00:29:28 - Missed Opportunity in Community Healthcare Workers
00:30:30 - Call to Action and Conclusion

Links:

• State Certification and Medicaid Billing
• Healthcare Transformation Collaborative. 
• https://communityhealthworker.org/iowa-activities/iowa-chw-alliance/
• https://www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/dpqi/cdpb/Pages/chwp.aspx

Connect with us: 

https://ruralpolicypartners.com/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/ 

https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners

https://www.youtube.com/@ruralpolicypartners

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-8nmp2SpIko

In this episode, we welcome Jill Barr, Outreach Navigator for Clay County Behavioral Health LINC, to discuss the transformative work happening in Spencer, Iowa. Jill shares the story behind the creation of the Local Initiative for Networking and Collaboration (LINC), the findings of the Community Stakeholder Study, and the power of braided funding in driving meaningful change. We dive into how LINC fosters collaboration among providers, builds community partnerships, and serves as a hub for behavioral health initiatives. Plus, Jill gives us a glimpse into her resource directory and vlog, which provide invaluable tools for residents and professionals alike. Join us as we explore the impact of community-driven solutions on mental health care in rural America!

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Navigate the behavioral health system with confidence and ease.
• Unlock new funding models to support mental health initiatives in your community.
• Harness the power of community collaboration to drive positive change in healthcare.
• Discover effective strategies for raising awareness about behavioral health.
• Uncover the pivotal role of community health workers in promoting mental health.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:15 - Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast
00:04:51 - Origin of LINC Project
00:08:43 - Stakeholder Study Findings
00:11:16 - Advisory Committee and Stakeholder Involvement
00:14:07 - Serving as the Table
00:15:13 - Convening People
00:16:35 - Braided Funding and Community Health Workers
00:17:58 - Impactful Model for Communities
00:19:14 - Provider Resource Events
00:28:52 - Importance of Keeping Resources Up to Date
00:29:05 - Ensuring Accessible Support
00:30:00 - Community Collaboration
00:31:30 - Moving Forward Together
00:32:46 - Focus on Community Well-being

Links:

• https://ccnia.org/author/jill-barrspencerhospital-org/ 
• https://www.spencerhospital.org/our-services/specialty-services/behavioral-health/ 
• https://ccnia.org/linc/spencer-fyi-interview-with-jill-barr/ 
• https://ccnia.org/linc-blogs/

Connect with Jill: @jillbreesbarr

Connect with us: 

https://ruralpolicypartners.com/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/ 

https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners

https://www.youtube.com/@ruralpolicypartners

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Yva0uAeG39o

This week, we're coming to you from Bowling Green, Kentucky—just a stone's throw from Santa Claus, Indiana! With the holiday season in full swing, we're tackling the chaos of packed ERs, generational family dynamics, and sky-high stress levels. Join us as we dive into the latest stats on self-care, share fun tips like building your "self-care snowman," and break down the ABCs of holiday wellness: Activities, Boundaries, and Connection. Whether you're gearing up for festivities or bracing for the season's stress, this episode is your go-to guide for staying merry and mindful.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover effective self-care strategies for a stress-free holiday season.
• Learn how to navigate the behavioral health system with confidence and ease.
• Uncover the importance of quality sleep for optimal self-care.
• Master the art of setting boundaries for improved mental well-being.
• Explore the benefits of incorporating music into your self-care routine for a happier you.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 - Introduction to the Stepping into podcast
00:00:15 - Challenges and Opportunities in Behavioral Health
00:00:42 - Importance of Self-Care
00:01:11 - Prioritizing Self-Care
00:03:05 - Value of Self-Care
00:11:33 - The Definition of Self-Care
00:12:22 - Self-Care in Rural Communities
00:13:32 - The Self-Care Snowman
00:15:38 - Importance of Sleep
00:21:38 - Boundaries and Quality Time
00:22:22 - Workforce Environment and Self-Care Boundaries
00:23:13 - Making Connections During Holidays
00:24:32 - Importance of Creating Connections
00:25:49 - Welcoming New Guests and Connections
00:26:13 - The Art of Saying No

Links:

• https://business.yougov.com/content/50132-32-of-us-adults-engage-in-daily-self-care-practices
• https://www.statista.com/statistics/1412818/self-care-methods-used-by-young-people-us-share/
• https://www.changecounselingllc.com/blog/build-your-self-care-snowman

Connect with us: 

https://ruralpolicypartners.com/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/ 

https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners

https://www.youtube.com/@ruralpolicypartners

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/lLH_geL6kfI

Join us as Jason reports from the Maryland Rural Mental Health Conference, where the intersection of policy, healthcare, and rural needs takes center stage. We'll explore the conference highlights, including insights from the Medicaid director, discussions on jail diversion, and the challenges of telehealth adoption. With themes like housing, partnerships, and the influence of economic and political shifts, this episode delves into how rural mental health efforts in Maryland echo trends across the nation. Plus, a sneak peek at Jason's next stop—Kentucky! Don’t miss this road trip through the evolving landscape of rural healthcare.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Understand the challenges of navigating the behavioral health system and how to overcome them.
• Explore the impact of rural policy on behavioral health and its implications for mental health professionals and policymakers.
• Discover effective strategies for improving access to behavioral health services in rural areas.
• Recognize the crucial role of housing in determining behavioral health outcomes and ways to address this issue in rural communities.
• Learn about the innovative telehealth solutions that are transforming rural behavioral health services.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 - Introduction to the Stepping In Podcast
00:00:44 - Tax Season and Rural Health Conference
00:04:25 - Medicaid and Behavioral Health Service Delivery
00:08:26 - No Wrong Door Approach and System Gaps
00:12:06 - Economic Perspective on Healthcare
00:13:02 - The Importance of Economics in Program Planning
00:15:20 - Unintended Consequences of Well-Meaning Programs
00:18:00 - Remembering Data and Long-Term Planning
00:19:47 - The Issue of Housing
00:22:08 - The Importance of Partnerships and Collaboration
00:25:33 - Next Destination: Kentucky
00:26:04 - Future Locations
00:26:28 - Conference Update
00:27:08 - Podcast Conclusion
00:27:37 - Closing Remarks 

Links:

• https://health.maryland.gov/mmcp/pages/home.aspx
• https://mdruralhealth.org/pages/annual-conference
• https://mhcc.maryland.gov/mhcc/pages/hit/hit_telemedicine/hit_telemedicine.aspx

Connect with us: 

https://ruralpolicypartners.com/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/ 

https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners

https://www.youtube.com/@ruralpolicypartners

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bPOmBr93Uxs

Substance use in the workplace poses serious risks, from decreased productivity and poor decision-making to accidents and high turnover. Kicking off with our trademark whiny farmer intro, this episode breaks down the challenges employers face, including inefficiency, theft, and morale issues, while navigating the gray areas of detecting substance abuse. We present recent data on the prevalence and financial impact of drug and alcohol use among U.S. employees and industries. Finally, we explore the complications of supporting employees through recovery, including FMLA protections and operational challenges, and discuss best practices for fostering a safe, healthy, and productive work environment—whether it’s the day shift, third shift, or on-call teams.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Mastering strategies for addressing substance abuse at work can transform your workplace into a supportive and safe environment.
• Navigating behavioral health systems will equip you with the knowledge to effectively support employees struggling with substance abuse.
• Understanding the impact of drug use in the workplace is crucial for implementing preventative measures and maintaining productivity.
• Exploring legal protections for employees in recovery will empower you to create inclusive workplace policies and support systems.
• Developing workplace policies on drug testing and substance abuse can fortify your company's commitment to a healthy and drug-free environment.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 - Introduction to the Stepping in podcast
00:03:31 - Impact of substance abuse in the workplace
00:07:03 - Challenges in addressing substance abuse at work
00:09:46 - Importance of workplace training
00:12:28 - Lack of Policy on Substance Use Disorders
00:13:07 - Impact of Substance Use on Work Performance
00:14:59 - Social Cost of Substance Use
00:17:45 - Impaired Employees and Workplace Safety
00:21:26 - Addressing Stigma and Supporting Recovery
00:25:15 - Practicing Gratitude
00:25:35 - Gratitude for Listeners
00:26:02 - Holiday Challenges
00:26:19 - Resources and Assistance
00:27:04 - Call to Action

Links:

• https://providernews.anthem.com/california/articles/alcohol-use-disorder-has-a-big-cost-5-10564 
• https://www.dol.gov/agencies/oasp/evaluation/topic-areas/substance-use-disorder-work

Connect with us: 

https://ruralpolicypartners.com/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/ 

https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners

https://www.youtube.com/@ruralpolicypartners

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pYL_kuSxeAQ

In this episode, we explore the hidden impact of vicarious trauma on employees, especially those exposed to traumatic stories through their work. After our whiny farmer intro (the combine is running till midnight, and someone might fall asleep on-air!), we break down how chronic stress, burnout, and vicarious trauma differ—and why it's essential to recognize this emotional residue. Drawing on data from leading research institutions, we discuss how vicarious trauma affects professionals across fields like healthcare, justice, and counseling, sometimes mirroring PTSD symptoms. Finally, we offer actionable strategies for fostering awareness, setting boundaries, and staying connected to maintain balance. Whether you're an employer or employee, this episode provides insights to protect well-being at work.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Master navigating behavioral health system challenges for more effective support.
• Uncover the critical knowledge of understanding vicarious trauma in corrections work.
• Discover powerful strategies for managing compassion fatigue and re-energize your passion for helping others.
• Explore the profound impact of secondary traumatic stress on professionals in the field.
• Learn to create and implement effective self-care policies for high-risk occupations.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 - Introduction to Behavioral Health Systems
00:00:44 - Challenges of Behavioral Health
00:01:31 - Impact of Vicarious Trauma
00:02:19 - Link Between Chronic Stress and Burnout
00:10:56 - Coping Strategies for Vicarious Trauma
00:12:28 - The Impact of Trauma Storytelling
00:13:23 - Choosing the Right People to Talk to
00:14:27 - The Benefits of Therapy and Professional Help
00:16:32 - Finding the Right Therapist for Trauma Treatment
00:22:54 - Implementing Sustainable Workplace Support
00:24:45 - Importance of Calendaring and Planning Ahead
00:25:23 - Balancing Personal and Work Commitments
00:25:50 - Planning for Grown Children's Involvement in Holidays
00:26:24 - Wrap-Up and Recap of Vicarious Trauma Discussion

Links:

• https://publichealth.wustl.edu/professional-helpers-can-experience-vicarious-trauma/ 
• https://research.iscrr.com.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0014/2301134/226_REP_RES_R01-Rapid-Review_Vicarious-trauma-FINAL.pdf 
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8421644/  

Connect with us: 

https://ruralpolicypartners.com/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/ 

https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners

https://www.youtube.com/@ruralpolicypartners

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/YjQBBwxjx58 

In this episode, we dive into the world of workplace mental health awareness training and help you navigate the overwhelming acronym soup (cue our whiny farmer intro!). From Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) to QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer), and specialized programs like NAMI Provider and ACE for the military, we break down key trainings and what they offer. We’ll also explore new initiatives, including a potential custom program for a specific workplace. Using insights from the 2022 SAMHSA advisory, we guide you through how to evaluate and implement the right program for your team. If you're looking to make informed decisions about mental health training, this episode is packed with practical advice and data-driven insights.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Mastering Behavioral Health System Navigation: Unravel the complexities of mental health resources and support systems.
• Unlocking the Benefits of Mental Health First Aid Training: Learn to provide crucial initial support in mental health crisis situations.
• Elevating Workplace Mental Health Awareness: Foster a supportive environment and promote mental well-being among your team.
• Choosing the Right Mental Health Training: Navigate the diverse landscape of mental health programs to find the best fit for your organization.
• Evaluating Evidence-Based Mental Health Programs: Learn how to assess the effectiveness of mental health initiatives for sustainable impact.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:15 - Introduction to Behavioral Health Training
00:01:35 - Importance of Workforce Training
00:03:40 - Corporate Interest in Mental Health Awareness Training
00:05:09 - Evidence-Based and Fidelity Training
00:09:26 - Diverse Training Programs
00:12:29 - NAMI Provider Program
00:13:23 - Medication Challenges
00:17:44 - Considerations for Training
00:20:00 - Ongoing Training Plan
00:23:14 - Train the Trainer
00:25:08 - Importance of Regular Training Updates
00:26:21 - Importance of Different Voice
00:27:03 - Importance of Self-Care
00:28:01 - Creating New Rituals
00:29:28 - Importance of Evidence-Based Training

Links:

• https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/pep22-06-04-004.pdf

Connect with us: 

https://ruralpolicypartners.com/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/ 

https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners

https://www.youtube.com/@ruralpolicypartners

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/LyvsValPZ8s

In this first episode of our Workplace Series, we dive into the critical role mental health plays in the modern workplace. After a warm welcome (featuring our signature whiny farmer intro), we tackle how to start conversations about mental health at work and explore topics like stress, burnout, addiction, suicide prevention, and anxiety. From corporate mental health training to first aid for trauma, we discuss the value of investing in these programs—and share some horror stories from ineffective rollouts. We’ll also highlight data-backed benefits, including improved workplace culture, decreased stigma, and the importance of supporting managers with the right tools. If you've ever wondered how to foster a healthier workplace, this episode offers insights you won't want to miss!

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the impact of mental health on workplace productivity and employee well-being.
• Overcome the challenges of the behavioral health system to create a supportive work environment.
• Implement strategies to foster a positive workplace culture for enhanced employee satisfaction and performance.
• Uncover the benefits of mental health training for business success and employee engagement.
• Address addiction and substance use in the workplace to promote a healthy and thriving work environment.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 - Introduction to the Stepping in Podcast
00:00:44 - Importance of Mental Health in the Workplace
00:02:16 - Workforce Retention and Training
00:07:30 - Importance of Training Implementation
00:11:34 - Benefits of Decreasing Stigma
00:12:41 - Tailoring Jobs to Bring Out the Best in Everyone
00:13:26 - Addressing Workplace Culture Issues
00:17:54 - Importance of Mental Health Training
00:19:37 - Training for Suicide Prevention
00:23:02 - Balancing Flexibility and Connection
00:25:17 - Navigating the Rural Roads
00:25:53 - The Perfect Cup of Coffee
00:26:20 - Mental Health in the Workplace
00:26:32 - Future Conversations
00:27:27 - Conclusion and Call to Action 

Links:

• https://www.edgepointlearning.com/blog/signs-of-burnout-at-work 
• https://www.edgepointlearning.com/blog/suicide-prevention-training/ 
• https://archives.drugabuse.gov/trends-statistics/costs-substance-abuse 
• https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/IJWHM-01-2016-0001/full/html
• https://oem.bmj.com/content/75/6/462.abstract
• https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1080/j.1440-1614.2006.01735.x

Connect with us: 

https://ruralpolicypartners.com/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/ 

https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners

https://www.youtube.com/@ruralpolicypartners

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/SRSh12s4hIM