Mind Matters

In this episode of Mind Matters, Ben, Kabir, and Ethan expose the pervasive issues in the media ecosystem that lead to polarization. They also discuss aspects deep rooted in our psychology that make us vulnerable to political division. This episode does not take any political or ideological stance but simply analyzes political isolation in our society and its effect on individual mental health. Li...

In this episode of Mind Matters, Kabir, Ben, and Ethan take a look at one of the most pervasive and misunderstood mental roadblocks of the modern era: procrastination. Far more than a lapse in time management or a marker of laziness, procrastination is a misalignment of identity: a hasty preference for the “present” self over the “future” self, rooted in anxiety about expectations and, frequently,...

In this episode of Mind Matters, Ethan, Kabir, and Ben sit down to reflect on a timely and much-needed topic for the new year: goals. Evaluating the best ways to create, persist through, and find purpose in goals, they draw from both established literature (like James Clear’s Atomic Habits) and their personal paths to better goal-setting, while also offering tips for setbacks (which inevitably acc...

In this episode of Mind Matters, Ethan, Ben, and Kabir sit down with Illinois State Senator Willie Preston of the 16th District for a powerful and wide ranging conversation. They explore how mental health is shaping current legislation and discuss practical ways people can influence political change. Senator Preston also shares his personal journey from growing up on the South Side of Chicago to b...

In this episode of Mind Matters, Ethan, Ben, and Kabir discuss socioeconomic disparities in mental health, their effect on suicide, and the power of tailored community action with Dr. Holly Wilcox, a professor at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and the president of the International Academy of Suicide Research. They survey the current atmosphere of suicide, investigate discrepa...

In this episode of Mind Matters, we feature LoopLess, an app built to combat screen addiction and help people reclaim their focus. Founders Kabir Kutty and Zachary Basinger, a fellow high schooler, talk about cognitive behavioral therapy, the screentime epidemic, and how intentionality is often the first step on the path to renewal. Download LoopLess: https://www.looplessapp.com/ Link to website w...

Listen as we feature the director of the Teen Mental Health Committee at our local JCC. Sam Savin's previous experiences as a school social worker in Chicago and her current job at the JCC provide an interesting perspective on today's topic. We asked questions like: “Are schools doing enough to value mental health?”, “Can talking about mental health sometimes increase the stigma?”, and “Ho...

In this episode of Mind Matters, we feature another High School student. Sushant Medikondla is a fellow senior at Glenbrook North. He has found great success in high school, taking on leadership positions in various clubs and becoming a state champion on math team. For this reason, it may be hard to believe that the topic of today’s episodes is insecurities, but even the most dedicated and success...

On this episode of Mind Matters, Ethan, Ben, and Kabir sit down with David Artz, a passionate mental health advocate and fellow podcaster. Born in Tianjin, China, David immigrated to the U.S. at age seven after being adopted. He also lives with IFAP, a rare genetic skin condition, which has shaped his journey of resilience and self-discovery. Through his experiences, David has cultivated a powerfu...

In this episode Ben, Ethan, and Kabir discuss testing. They talk about what makes tests so stressful, their experiences with test-taking, and advice they have to anybody who is looking to improve. The truth is that tests open doors to one’s future, and they are not going away anytime soon. While recognizing and relating to the struggles people experience with testing, they emphasize that most peop...

In this episode, Ethan, Ben, and Kabir discuss the psychological consequences of social media with Debbie Strauss, LCSW. They evaluate the ways in which algorithms trap users in loops of scrolling and negativity, how social media drives inauthenticity, and how people’s digital identities intersect with (and even erode) their real-life experiences. But above all, they emphasize a better path forwar...

In this episode, Ethan and Ben sit down with Becky Shulman LCSW, MSW to talk about academic pressure and learning disabilities. With back-to-school season in full stride this topic is sure to hit close to home with a lot of people. Today’s academic environment is highly competitive and conducive to mental health issues. However, as people get lost in the chaos of the school-year, they often overlo...

In this episode, Ethan, Ben, and Kabir sit down with Pam Katz, LCSW, to discuss body-focused repetitive behaviors. After unpacking what BFRBs actually are, they talk about how certain behaviors develop, the role anxiety and other factors play, and how BFRBs can be both coping mechanisms and compulsions. Pam shares her clinical approach, some differences in treatment for children vs. adults, and wh...

In this episode of Mind Matters, Ethan, Ben, and Kabir sit down with Lauren Raphael LCSW to discuss mental health crises. They examine the factors that go into a mental health crisis and discuss ways to tell if somebody is suffering from one. Next, they talk about how to help a person experiencing a mental health crisis and unpack why stigma and other societal factors negatively impact people's wi...

In this episode of Mind Matters, Ethan, Ben, and Kabir sit down with Dr. Jessica Myszak, a licensed psychologist and founder of The Help and Healing Center. With over a decade of experience, Dr. Myszak specializes in diagnosing a wide range of mental health conditions, particularly ADHD and autism. She shares a clear and thoughtful look at the ADHD diagnostic process, dispels common myths, and off...

In this episode of Mind Matters, Ethan, Ben, and Kabir sit down with Dr. Rinad Beidas of Northwestern's Feinberg School of Medicine to discuss behavioral economics, implementation science, and their dual impact on equity in mental health. Dr. Beidas's clinical research serves as a platform for their conversations about systematic inequalities in access to care, financial and cultural barri...

In this episode of Mind Matters, Ethan, Ben, and Kabir dive into a deeply personal and often overlooked issue: the inferiority complex. It’s something many struggle with internally, yet find difficult to name or confront. Through candid conversations and personal stories, they explore how feelings of inadequacy can quietly shape our lives. Whether this topic resonates closely or just piques your c...

In this NY Times award-winning episode of Mind Matters, Ethan, Ben, and Kabir deliver a compelling message about men's mental health, shedding light on its vital importance in today's world. Tune in for a conversation that matters. Link to website with all socials: https://mindmatterspodcast.net

On this episode of Mind Matters, Ben and Kabir sit down to discuss the prevalence of eating disorders and the common misunderstandings surrounding them. While the topic may be uncomfortable, raising awareness is essential to improving the lives of many in our community and society. Link to website with all socials: https://www.mindmatterspodcast.net/home

On this summer kick-off episode of Mind Matters, Ethan, Ben, and Kabir sit down to reflect on this past school year. They dive into all the ups and downs and share their biggest lessons learned. Be on the lookout for lots to come this summer! Link to website with all socials: https://www.mindmatterspodcast.net/home

On this episode Ben and Kabir sat down with Dan Maigler a licensed social clinical worker and fellow podcaster to discuss his experiences with mental health especially in the North Shore. Dan created the podcast " Not Allowed to Die ". During the episode, they focus on uncovering how big of a problem mental health is in our area and breaking the stigma around that problem. At the end of the episod...

On this episode of Mind Matters, Ethan, Ben, and Kabir sat down with Jason Marotzke to discuss all things therapy. They discuss the stigma of therapy, resolve misconceptions about therapy, and illuminate what therapy looks like and what to expect. Jason is a leader in the therapy and counseling profession. He has served on the North Dakota School Counselor Association Board and as a board member o...

Forgiveness is something that many people struggle with. On this episode of Mind Matters, Ethan, Ben, and Kabir unpack why forgiving is so difficult yet so rewarding. They explore common obstacles and misconceptions, while also offering practical coping mechanisms that can lead to peace in your relationships.

Time is truly your most valuable commodity, yet so many people struggle to manage it. In their first episode of 2025, Ethan, Ben, and Kabir dive into what time management means from a high school perspective. They explore why it is a struggle, common misconceptions, and practical coping mechanisms that can lead to efficient use of your time.

Friendship can be both complex and incredibly rewarding. In this final episode of 2024, Ethan, Ben, and Kabir dive into what friendship means from a high school perspective. They explore the challenges and joys of building meaningful connections and share practical tips for cultivating healthy and balanced relationships.