Reduce The Stigma

When Fathers Grieve Love, Loss, and the Journey Forward

Join Whitney as we sit down with Jason Tuttle, a father who tragically lost his 15-year-old son. In this raw and honest conversation, Jason shares his heart-wrenching story of grief, loss, and the challenges of navigating life after such a devastating event. Discover the unique experiences of grieving fathers and the societal pressures they face. Learn about the importance of empathy, understanding, and effective support for those who are grieving.
Links
Jason Tuttle: https://letterstozachary.com/
Straight Up Care: straightupcare.com
Watch our episodes: ReduceTheStigma.com, Youtube.com
Jason's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-tuttle-4264112a7/
Letters To Zachary Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DC5GSFZK

The Power of Principle Living

Join Whitney as we delve into the world of behavioral health with Johanna Dolan, a renowned expert in the field. In this insightful interview, we explore the importance of principle-centered living, the impact of empathy-related injuries on both individuals and organizations, and the power of reimagining traditional recovery models. Discover how to create a more compassionate and effective approach to behavioral health, empowering both providers and clients. Learn about the challenges and opportunities in the industry and explore strategies for building resilient organizations.
Links
Johanna Nolan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johanna-m-dolan-16360b2/
Straight Up Care: straightupcare.com
Watch our episodes: ReduceTheStigma.com, Youtube.com
Dolan Research: https://engage.dolanresearch.net/en-us/
Commonwealth: https://engage.dolanresearch.net/en-us/

The Power of Choice: Embracing Diverse Recovery Paths

Join Whitney for an open conversation with Patrick McGowan, a person in recovery who believes that the best recovery program is the one that fits you. Patrick shares his journey, his challenges with traditional 12-step programs, and explores alternative recovery pathways. Discover why individualization in recovery matters, the risks of stigmatizing non-traditional methods, and the importance of supporting diverse recovery paths. 
Links
Patrick McGowan: https://www.youtube.com/@RecoveryConversations-s8o
Straight Up Care: straightupcare.com
Watch our episodes: ReduceTheStigma.com, Youtube.com
Patrick's Email: 4ptrick@gmail.com

Empowering Individuals with Disabilities Revolutionizes Lives

Join us for a conversation with Michelle Steiner, an advocate for disability awareness who lives with an invisible disability. Michelle shares her personal experiences and offers insights into the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. Learn about the importance of open communication, education, and support for individuals with disabilities. Discover how we can create a more inclusive and understanding society for all.
 
Links
Michelle's Mission: https://www.mrsmichellesmission.com/
Straight Up Care: straightupcare.com
Watch our episodes: ReduceTheStigma.com, Youtube.com

Beyond the Textbook: Integrating Social Determinants into Healthcare Education

In this episode, Dr. Grace Drnach-Bonaventura delves into her research on integrating social determinants of health into online undergraduate courses. She shares strategies for overcoming barriers, highlights the power of peer-to-peer learning, and discusses how this approach enhances student understanding and fosters community awareness. Discover how education can shape a more holistic healthcare perspective.
Links
Grace's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grace-drnach-bonaventuramph/Grace's Dissertation: https://dscholarship.pitt.edu/46382/1/Grace%20Drnach-Bonaventura_DiP_2024_Final.pdf

More Than Just Treatment: The Importance of Social Determinants

Join us for an insightful discussion with Dr. Orlando Wright, a leading authority in behavioral health, as he explores the critical role of social determinants of health. Discover how social workers are shaping the future of healthcare through innovative approaches like care measurement and iSocialWork. Learn how these advancements are transforming the way we address whole-person care and improve overall well-being. Don’t miss this conversation on the evolving impact of social work in enhancing health outcomes.
Links
Dr. Orlando Wright: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drorlandowright/
Haylon Clinical: https://halcyonclinical.com/
iSocialWork: https://isocialwork.com/
Straight Up Care: straightupcare.com
Watch our episodes: ReduceTheStigma.com, Youtube.com

The Hidden Struggles: The Reality of Perimenopause

In this episode, Whitney sits down with Jessica Von Erlendson , a certified yoga therapist and advocate for women’s health, to discuss the complexities of perimenopause and menopause. With over 9,000 members in her Canadian support group, Jessica is changing the conversation around these life stages. Together, they explore the stigma, emotional and physical changes, and societal challenges that women face as they navigate these natural phases of life. Tune in to learn about how Jessica is empowering women through education, community, and inclusivity.
 
Links
Canadian Perimenopause and Menopause Support: http://canadianperimeno.com/coaching/
Straight Up Care: straightupcare.com
Watch our episodes: ReduceTheStigma.com, Youtube.com
Jessica's FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/m8vKnzH8ydUtYKa7/
https://cpms.ck.page/symptoms ; Follow this link to get your copy of the comprehensive symptoms list and sign up for my occasional newsletter.  This can be used to show your doctor, monitor your symptoms and your progress as you add in new medications, supplements or lifestyle changes.
https://insighttimer.com/JessicaMyrnaRae/guided-meditations/20-mins-tongue-drum-soothing-tones ; Anxiety is one of our most troubling symptoms and this track is a soothing balm for frazzled nerves.  You don't even need to listen to it for it to work.  The patterns of 2's & 3's work to calm your nervous system effortlessly.

Down Syndrome Awareness Month

Join us for this special episode of Reduce the Stigma as we celebrate National Down Syndrome Awareness Month! In this heartfelt episode, Whitney interviews six incredible individuals who share their stories and experiences as part of the Down Syndrome community.
We kick things off with Greg Coni, President of the Down Syndrome Association of Pittsburgh (DSAP), who highlights the organization’s programs, including the highly anticipated fashion show. Meredith Peterson, former DSAP Executive Director, shares the story behind starting this unique event, which celebrates individuals with Down syndrome through fashion and self-expression. Plus, hear from four amazing models—Macee, Hannah, Justin, and Teresa—who shined on the runway, showcasing their talents and passions. These inspiring guests remind us of the importance of inclusion, advocacy, and presuming competence in everything we do.
Don't miss this uplifting celebration of abilities, joy, and community. Let's raise awareness, break down stigmas, and make it a better world—together! 

A Life-Saving Mission: The Importance of Harm Reduction

Join Whitney for a candid conversation about harm reduction and its crucial role in preventing overdose deaths. Discover the myths surrounding harm reduction and learn how simple actions like carrying Narcan and accessing test strips can save lives. Our guest, Narcan Nate, shares his personal experiences and advocacy work to promote harm reduction and reduce the stigma associated with substance use. Don't miss this informative and inspiring episode as we explore the power of harm reduction to save lives.
 
Links
Nathan Smiddy: @narcan_nate, https://linktr.ee/narcannate
Straight Up Care: straightupcare.com
Watch our episodes: ReduceTheStigma.com, Youtube.com

The Warrior Within: Unlocking Your Potential in Recovery

Discover how to unlock your potential in recovery with the Warrior Within program at Steel City Recovery. This holistic approach focuses on mental health and wellness to help you reach your full potential.
Join Whitney as she interviews Patrick Bibza, founder of Steel City Hardcore Recovery, a veteran and licensed social worker dedicated to physical, mental, and spiritual growth. Patrick shares his journey as a warrior in recovery, overcoming addiction and trauma, and his mission to help others transform their lives. Discover the power of resilience recovery, and connection as they discuss the importance of community, mental health, and wellness.
Links
Steel City HxCx Recovery: https://www.steelcityhxcxrecovery.com/
What should we tackle next? https://syndicate12.com/rts-unfiltered-next-topic/
Straight Up Care: straightupcare.com
Watch our episodes: ReduceTheStigma.com, Youtube.com
 
Reduce The Stigma is sponsored by Straight Up Care, the telehealth platform empowering lived experience. If you're in need of support, check out Straight Up Care - where shared lived experience powers recovery.
 
Are you an organization supporting individuals with substance use and/or mental health lived experience, a relevant content creator, or a person with lived experience involved in advocacy and want to join us for a conversation? Complete this form.