Summary:

In this episode of "Truly Mental," host Joe Smarro sits down with Dr. Steve Gullans, CEO of Thynk Inc, to explore the intersection of neuroscience, innovation, and real-world impact. Discover how cutting-edge neurotechnology is helping people rewire their brains for resilience, adaptability, and better decision-making. Steve shares his journey from academia to entrepreneurship, the challenges of cognitive training, and the potential of technology to enhance mental health and performance across all ages. Tune in to learn how you can take control of your mental experience and improve your cognitive skills.

LinkedIn: Connect

Website: Thynk

1. Introduction to Steve Gullans and Think (0:00 - 5:30)
   • Joe Smarro introduces Steve Gullans, CEO of Think, and discusses the company's mission to use neurotechnology for cognitive training. Steve shares his background and the vision behind Think.
2. The Science Behind Cognitive Training (5:31 - 15:00)
   • Steve explains the neuroscience of cognitive training, how Think's technology works, and its applications for improving mental acuity and focus across different age groups.
3. Steve's Personal Journey and Motivation (15:01 - 25:00)
   • Steve shares his personal story, including his academic career, family experiences with ALS and Parkinson's, and his transition to entrepreneurship and venture capital.
4. Challenges and Innovations in Neurotechnology (25:01 - 35:00)
   • Discussion on the challenges faced in the field of cognitive training, the importance of measurable outcomes, and how Think differentiates itself from other neurotech solutions.
5. Applications for Mental Health and Performance (35:01 - 45:00)
   • Steve talks about the impact of Think's technology on mental health, its use in schools, and potential benefits for first responders, athletes, and high performers.
6. Future of Human Optimization and Neurotechnology (45:01 - 55:00)
   • Exploration of the future of neurotechnology, ethical considerations, and the potential for brain enhancements. Steve shares insights from global conferences and his vision for responsible leadership in the field.
7. Closing Thoughts and Call to Action (55:01 - End)
   • Joe and Steve wrap up the conversation with reflections on the importance of taking control of one's mental health and the potential of cognitive training to improve lives. Joe encourages listeners to share the episode and take responsibility for their wellness.

Summary:

In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Sam Zand, founder of Anywhere Clinic, discusses the evolution of psychiatric care, emphasizing the importance of accessibility, empathy, and optimization in mental health. He shares his personal journey, the significance of understanding PTSD, and the role of telehealth in breaking down barriers to care. Dr. Zand advocates for a shift from traditional treatment models to a focus on mental wellness and the potential of psychedelics in therapy. He highlights the need for self-love and connection in maximizing the human experience, ultimately calling for a more compassionate approach to mental health care.

Website: https://www.anywhereclinic.com/

Personal Website: https://www.drsamzand.com/

Dr. Sam Zand on: LinkedIn

Dr. Zand on Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/AnywhereClinic/

Takeaways:

• Dr. Zand emphasizes the need for evolution in psychiatric care.
• He believes trauma is often self-induced rather than externally caused.
• Empathy is crucial in crisis intervention and mental health.
• Telehealth provides accessibility and discretion for patients.
• Optimization in mental health is more important than traditional treatment.
• Psychedelics have potential benefits that need to be explored further.
• Self-love is essential for personal growth and healing.
• Breaking the stigma around mental health is necessary for societal change.
• Patients should be prioritized over profits in healthcare.
• Connection and community are vital for maximizing the human experience.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction to Innovative Psychiatry
• 03:04 The Evolution of Anywhere Clinic
• 06:12 Dr. Sam Zand's Personal Journey
• 08:58 Understanding PTSD and Mental Health
• 12:04 Crisis Intervention and Empathy in Psychiatry
• 14:58 Telehealth and Accessibility in Mental Health
• 21:09 The Future of Mental Health and Optimization
• 27:54 The Impact of Routine on Mental Health
• 30:18 Stigmas and Misunderstandings of Psychedelics
• 32:46 The Role of Antidepressants in Mental Health
• 36:58 Understanding Ketamine Therapy
• 42:59 Maximizing the Human Experience
• 49:23 Rewiring Beliefs About Medicine
• 52:03 A Message of Universal Love

In this episode, Joe Smarro interviews Dan Umfleet, the founder and CEO of Kindbridge Behavioral Health, a mental health care system focused on addressing gambling and gaming disorders. They discuss the challenges of digital addiction, the importance of tailored mental health care, and the role of technology in treatment. Dan shares his journey from consulting to mental health advocacy, the impact of technology on youth, and the unique challenges faced by military personnel and first responders. The conversation also explores the future of behavioral health and the potential of AI in enhancing mental health services.

Connect with Dan: LinkedIn

Website: https://kindbridge.com/

Takeaways

• KindBridge addresses overlooked behavioral health issues like gambling disorders.
• Digital addiction is a growing concern, especially among youth.
• Gambling addiction often coexists with other mental health issues.
• Telehealth has become essential in providing mental health services.
• The military community faces unique challenges related to mental health and gambling.
• AI can enhance mental health care but must be used responsibly.
• Stigma around mental health is decreasing, leading to more open conversations.
• Access to mental health resources is crucial but often limited.
• Human connection remains irreplaceable in mental health treatment.
• Early education on mental health is vital for future generations.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to KindBridge and Digital Mental Health
• 02:53 Understanding Gambling Addiction and Mental Health
• 05:51 Dan's Journey: From Consulting to Mental Health Advocacy
• 12:08 The Impact of Technology on Youth Mental Health
• 15:00 Challenges Faced by High Performers in Gambling and Mental Health
• 29:51 Gambling and National Security
• 34:13 The Impact of Gambling on Military Personnel
• 39:32 The Role of Technology in Mental Health
• 43:49 Future of Behavioral Health Treatment
• 51:37 Personal Beliefs and Mental Health Advocacy

In this episode of Truly Mental, Joe Smarro interviews Robin Arnott, CEO & co-founder of SoundSelf, an immersive technology designed to facilitate altered states of awareness for mental health improvement. They discuss the mechanics of SoundSelf, its therapeutic applications, and Robin's journey from game design to creating a tool for healing. The conversation delves into the importance of surrender in the healing process, the effectiveness of SoundSelf for various mental health conditions, and the balance between doing and being in maximizing the human experience. Robin emphasizes the significance of breath and relaxation in healing, offering insights into how technology can support mental health without the need for substances.

Robin's LinkedIn: 

www.soundself.com

Takeaways:

• SoundSelf uses immersive technology to facilitate altered states of awareness.
• Vocalizing can help regulate the nervous system and promote relaxation.
• The experience can lead to profound mental health benefits in a short time.
• Surrendering is a crucial skill for healing and personal growth.
• SoundSelf is effective for various mental health conditions, including PTSD and anxiety.
• The technology is designed to be self-paced but benefits from a therapeutic context.
• Breathwork is essential for mental health and healing.
• Maximizing the human experience involves learning to do less and find stillness.
• Robin's journey reflects a shift from fear-based experiences to healing-focused technology.
• The importance of family as a foundation for personal and professional success.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to SoundSelf and Immersive Technology
• 03:59 Robin Arnott's Journey from Game Design to Mental Health
• 08:49 The Mechanism of SoundSelf and Its Therapeutic Applications
• 15:11 Target Populations and Effectiveness of SoundSelf
• 19:55 The Future of SoundSelf and Accessibility in Mental Health
• 24:15 Understanding Efficacy in Therapeutic Settings
• 25:58 Session Frequency and Protocols for Optimal Outcomes
• 28:01 The Role of Soundself in Trauma Recovery
• 30:12 The Importance of Stillness in Healing
• 37:27 Maximizing the Human Experience Through Release
• 41:35 Personal Growth and Family as a Foundation

In this episode of the Truly Mental Podcast, host Joe Smarro speaks with Bill Black, the Chief Operating Officer of Appalachian Counseling Center. They discuss Bill's journey from a military career to mental health advocacy, the differences between therapy and life coaching, and the importance of addressing stigma in mental health. Bill shares insights on the role of community, the challenges of cultural perceptions around mental health, and the need for resilience and wellness in individuals. The conversation emphasizes the importance of prevention in mental health and the need for a cultural shift in how we approach mental health discussions.

Website: https://www.wvcounseling.com/

Website: https://www.e-therapycafe.com/

Bill's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamblack1/

Takeaways

• Bill Black combines military experience with mental health advocacy.
• Appalachian Counseling Center offers various mental health services.
• Therapy focuses on unpacking past issues, while life coaching addresses immediate solutions.
• Stigma in mental health is a significant barrier to seeking help.
• Community support is crucial for mental health initiatives.
• Resilience and wellness are essential for mental health.
• Cultural perceptions of mental health need to change.
• Prevention should be prioritized over reaction in mental health care.
• Education on mental health should start at a young age.
• Every day has good and bad moments, and we should focus on the positives.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Mental Health Advocacy
• 03:11 Understanding Appalachian Counseling Center
• 05:53 The Difference Between Therapy and Life Coaching
• 09:02 Bill's Personal Journey into Mental Health
• 12:06 The Impact of Military Experience on Mental Health
• 14:51 Stigma in Mental Health and Leadership
• 17:58 The Role of Champions in Mental Health Advocacy
• 21:12 Barriers to Accessing Mental Health Care
• 24:14 Conclusion and Call to Action
• 25:42 Annual Mental Health Check-Ins
• 26:41 Cultural Issues in Mental Health
• 27:11 The Role of Education in Mental Health Awareness
• 29:00 Stigma and Self-Induced Barriers
• 30:30 Proactive Approaches to Mental Health
• 31:51 Teaching Resilience to Younger Generations
• 35:20 The Importance of Life Skills
• 39:47 Personal Wellness and Resiliency Strategies

In this episode of the Truly Mental Podcast, host Joe Smarro speaks with Karin Stephan, COO and co-founder of Earkick, an AI-powered platform designed to improve mental health through real-time support. Karin shares her personal journey that led to the creation of Earkick, emphasizing the importance of accessible mental health resources. The conversation explores the role of AI in mental health, addressing concerns from the therapy community, and the ethical considerations surrounding AI-driven tools. Karin envisions a future where mental health is seen as a superpower, and technology plays a crucial role in empowering individuals to take charge of their mental well-being.

Karin's LinkedIn

Earkick Website: 

Takeaways

• Earkick is a free AI-powered platform for mental health support.
• The platform aims to reduce stigma and provide immediate help.
• Karin's childhood desire for a supportive companion inspired Earkick.
• AI can complement, not replace, human therapists.
• The app is designed to be accessible and user-friendly.
• Ethical considerations are crucial in AI development.
• User data privacy is a top priority for Earkick.
• Mental health should be viewed as a superpower.
• Technology can empower individuals to manage their mental health.
• The future of mental health tech is about collaboration and support.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Earkick and Its Mission
• 02:59 Karin's Personal Journey and Motivation
• 05:46 Bridging the Gap in Mental Health Care
• 08:58 The Role of AI in Mental Health Support
• 12:08 Addressing Concerns from the Therapy Community
• 14:59 Ensuring Emotional Nuance in AI Interactions
• 18:07 Ethical Considerations in AI Mental Health Tools
• 20:56 The Future of Mental Health Tech and Empowerment

In this episode of Truly Mental, host Jesse Trevino speaks with Hector Ayala, CEO of Hispanic Community Counseling Services, about the importance of culturally responsive mental health care for Latino communities. They discuss the barriers to accessing mental health services, the stigma surrounding mental health, and the need for culturally competent care, especially among first responders. Hector shares his personal journey into the field and emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces for healing, the role of community support, and the significance of self-compassion in the healing process. The conversation highlights the resilience of the Latino community and offers messages of hope for those struggling with mental health issues.

https://hccsphila.org/

Hector Ayala on LinkedIn

Episode Takeaways:

• Culturally responsive care is essential for effective mental health support.
• Many in the Latino community face barriers to accessing mental health services.
• Stigma around mental health can prevent individuals from seeking help.
• Creating safe spaces for healing is crucial in mental health care.
• First responders often experience unique pressures that require cultural competence in care.
• Building trust and relationships is key to successful treatment outcomes.
• Healing is a journey that does not have to be faced alone.
• Self-compassion is vital for both clients and providers in the mental health field.
• Leadership in mental health requires empathy and understanding of personal struggles.
• Resilience in the Latino community is rooted in cultural values and shared experiences.

In this episode of Truly Mental, host Jesse Trevino speaks with Angie Noack, a leader at Braincode Centers, about her personal journey of recovery from a traumatic brain injury and her work in neurofeedback therapy. They discuss the impact of trauma on the brain, the effectiveness of neurofeedback as a treatment modality, and share inspiring success stories of individuals who have transformed their lives through this innovative approach. Angie emphasizes the importance of understanding one's mental health and the hope that exists for those suffering in silence.

www.braincodecenters.com

Angie on LinkedIn: 

• Neurofeedback can help rewire the brain after trauma.
• Trauma can lead to a state of hypervigilance and anxiety.
• Brain mapping reveals unique patterns in each individual's brain.
• Neurofeedback has been around since the 1940s but is gaining credibility.
• First responders often experience severe sleep issues due to trauma.
• Neurofeedback is a lifestyle, not just a treatment.
• Every brain is unique and requires personalized treatment.
• There are alternatives to medication for mental health issues.
• Angie's personal experience drives her passion for helping others.
• There is hope and support available for those suffering in silence.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Resilience and Recovery
01:10 Understanding Brain Code Centers
02:44 The Impact of Trauma on the Brain
05:29 Neurofeedback: A Historical Perspective
07:24 How Neurofeedback Works
10:19 The Role of Neurofeedback in First Responder Wellness
15:50 Angie's Personal Journey with Brain Injury
20:18 Success Stories in Neurofeedback Treatment
23:23 Rewiring Beliefs and Overcoming Limits
24:45 Encouragement for Those Suffering in Silence
27:11 Connecting with Brain Code Centers

In this episode of the Truly Mental podcast, host Joe Smarro engages with Ari Drosman, co-founder of Resurface Group, to discuss a transformative approach to mental health care that emphasizes in-home therapy. Ari shares insights into the unique model of Resurface Group, which integrates therapy into the daily lives of clients, fostering sustainable change and building trust. The conversation explores Ari's journey into therapy, the challenges of traditional therapeutic approaches, and the importance of being present in clients' lives during their healing process. In this conversation, Joe Smarro and Ari Drosman explore the importance of supportive systems in therapy, the significance of hobbies and lifestyle choices, and the journey of personal growth and authenticity. They discuss practical advice for those feeling overwhelmed, the necessity of living authentically, and the transformative power of beliefs and life lessons. The conversation emphasizes the importance of connection, both with oneself and with others, and encourages listeners to embrace their true selves.

https://www.resurfacegroup.com/

Keywords: mental health, therapy, in-home therapy, Resurface Group, innovative approaches, mental health care, sustainable change, therapeutic landscape, family therapy, crisis intervention, therapy, mental health, support systems, personal growth, hobbies, authenticity, resilience, life lessons, self-care, community

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Resurface Group
02:23 Innovative In-Home Therapy Approach
09:06 Ari Drosman's Journey to Therapy
17:06 Integrating Care in Home Environments
22:11 Building Supportive Systems in Therapy
25:05 Taking the First Step in Therapy
27:15 The Importance of Hobbies and Lifestyle
30:39 Maximizing the Human Experience
32:43 Living Authentically and Avoiding Hypocrisy
34:34 Transformative Beliefs and Lessons Learned
38:43 Connecting with Resurface Group

In this episode of Truly Mental, host Jesse Trevino interviews Oli Mittermaier, co-founder and Director of Patient Care of CIT Clinics, a leading provider of ketamine-assisted therapy. They discuss the innovative approaches to mental health care, particularly for those facing treatment-resistant conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Oli shares insights on the role of ketamine in therapy, the importance of understanding trauma, and the concept of self-directed positive neuroplasticity. The conversation emphasizes the need for meaningful connections and the shift from viewing mental health issues as pathologies to understanding them as adaptive responses to trauma. Listeners are encouraged to explore their own definitions of thriving and to engage in practices that promote mental well-being.

takeaways

• Real healing requires meaningful connection.
• Ketamine offers more than just pain relief; it provides a transcendental experience.
• Understanding trauma is crucial for effective treatment.
• Defining what thriving looks like is essential for recovery.
• Neuroplasticity allows the brain to change and adapt.
• Anxiety and depression can be viewed as coping mechanisms.
• Self-directed positive neuroplasticity can reshape mental health.
• Community support plays a vital role in healing.
• Practicing gratitude can shift focus to positive experiences.
• Mental health treatment requires active participation and effort.