We Care Conversations

In this episode of We Care Conversations, Elisa and Cody sit down with nationally recognized speaker, author, and former first responder Travis Howze during his visit to Wapakoneta. A Marine veteran, former police officer, and firefighter, Travis shares his personal journey through trauma, PTSD, addiction, and recovery. Through his Post Traumatic Purpose Tour, he encourages first responders and their families to confront mental health challenges and break the stigma around seeking help. This powerful and candid conversation explores resilience, accountability, the impact of trauma on families, and the importance of caring for those who spend their lives caring for others.

In this episode, we welcome Brooke and Erin from Connect for Community, a new nonprofit providing mental health services in Allen, Auglaize, and Hardin Counties. They share what makes their approach to care unique, from trauma-informed therapy and personalized treatment to helping people overcome financial and transportation barriers. We also explore the importance of finding the right therapist, practical ways to practice self-care, and how Connect for Community is working to make mental health support more accessible. Tune in to learn about this new local resource and the importance of finding care that works for you.

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Logan Foley (Bath Schools Social Worker), April Neff (Bath Schools Counselor), and Tammie Colon from the Mental Health Board. Together they unpack the real mental health challenges students are facing today, highlight warning signs parents should know, and share both local and nationwide resources available to families. Packed with practical advice on how parents can get involved and support their children, this conversation offers guidance and hope for raising mentally healthy kids.

In this special episode, Trisha from the Mental Health and Recovery Services Board (MHRSB) joins us to break down the Be Seen With Green campaign for Mental Health Awareness Month. We discuss the exciting activities happening throughout May, how listeners can easily participate by wearing green and sharing their photos, and the Be Seen store featuring cool branded clothing and gear. Whether you're looking to show support, connect with the community, or simply learn more, this episode highlights simple but powerful ways to make mental health visible. Tune in as recovery remains an ongoing journey.

In this lively, hosts-only episode, Elisa and Cody take turns pulling questions from the Thoughtful Questions Jar to reveal more about their personal backgrounds, how they became passionate about mental health advocacy, and what keeps them fired up for every conversation on the show. Expect plenty of laughs, candid stories, surprising answers, and genuine moments as they share their own journeys while spotlighting key mental health topics and helpful resources for listeners. It’s a fun, heartfelt way to get to know the people behind the voices—proving that even the hosts are still learning, growing, and laughing along the way, as recovery remains an ongoing journey.

In this inspiring episode, Byron Selden shares his mission to connect students and behavioral health professionals with job opportunities, scholarships, grants, and continuing education resources. From recruiting the next generation of social workers to easing the financial path into mental health careers, we explore how he’s building a stronger workforce for recovery. Tune in for practical advice and hope for those pursuing or advancing in behavioral health, as the journey of healing continues.

In this engaging episode, we sit down with Captain Kinn from the Ohio State Highway Patrol to discuss the evolving intersection of law enforcement and mental health. We dive into Operation New Beginnings, a transformative program connecting individuals pulled over for impaired driving with local substance use and mental health professionals. Plus, enjoy some fun behind-the-scenes scoops on life in law enforcement. Tune in for an inspiring look at how compassion is reshaping policing, as recovery remains an ongoing journey.

In this compelling episode, we dive into the groundbreaking State of Ohio Adversity and Resilience (SOAR) Study with guests Dr. Scott Langenecker from The Ohio State University College of Medicine and outreach coordinator Bridget Henebry. Conducted at Mercy Health St. Rita’s Medical Center in Lima, we explore how SOAR’s Brain Health Study is seeking participants—especially single parents and men—to share their mental health journeys through surveys, MRIs, EEGs, and more. Discover how this study, inspired by the transformative Framingham Heart Study, aims to uncover the roots of resilience and revolutionize mental health care. Tune in to learn how your story can shape a brighter future for wellness, as grief and recovery remain an ongoing journey.

In this heartfelt episode, Dr. Mary Iiames joins us to explore the complex landscape of grief, diving into its various forms and sharing practical strategies for coping. From personal loss to collective mourning, we discuss how grief is an ongoing journey and offer ways to find resilience and hope. Tune in for a compassionate conversation on navigating the evolving path of grief.

In this episode, we sit down with Chad Dunlap, MHRSB board member and founder of Upshift Public Speaking, as he shares his personal recovery journey, practical advice for supporting loved ones in crisis, and an inside look at the mental health services offered by our local board. We also wrap up our Be Seen With Green campaign, celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month with inspiring stories and community action. Tune in for hope, guidance, and resources to navigate mental health challenges.