Courage Speaks

Join Sam Sherman, host of Courage Speaks, for episode 29, featuring a conversation with Dan Dietrich, a therapist at Courage to Connect. Dan shares his remarkable journey from being a radio host in rural Alaska to pursuing a career in therapy, guided by a long-ignored inner voice suggesting he would make a great counselor. Discover how Dan navigated major life transitions, explored the connection...

In this episode of Courage Speaks, host Sam Sherman welcomes his long-time friend and future Courage to Connect clinical intern, Brian Ray. Together, they delve into Brian's journey into the field of mental health, highlighting personal experiences and the pivotal moments that shaped his path. This conversation is not just about career choices, but also about the profound impact of friendship and...

On episode 27 of Courage Speaks, host Sam Sherman sits down with Matt Skura, NFL veteran and mental health advocate. Matt shares his journey from being an undrafted free agent in the NFL to becoming a powerful voice in breaking down mental health stigmas. The conversation delves into Matt's time in the NFL, the challenges he faced, including severe injury, and his personal battle with mental healt...

In this episode of Courage Speaks, host Sam Sherman sits down for a heartfelt and insightful conversation with Representative Lindsey LaPointe, a passionate advocate and dedicated legislator from Illinois. With a background in social work, Rep. LaPointe shares her personal journey and deep commitment to bridging the gap between mental health, advocacy, and policy. Together, they explore the challe...

On episode 25 of Courage Speaks, host Sam Sherman dives deep into the journey of Jared Lurie, Clinical Director of Operations at Courage to Connect. Jared opens up about his personal experiences with mental health from a young age, sharing how a significant medical diagnosis in college became a pivotal turning point in his life. His recovery and the role therapy played in it became the catalyst fo...

On Episode 24 of Courage Speaks, we invited Marissa Kaelter, a therapist from Courage to Connect, for her second insightful conversation on the podcast. The episode delves into Marissa's profound insights on play therapy, exploring its significance in helping children open up in a welcoming environment. Marissa also shares valuable advice for parents and educators on finding the balance between gr...

One episode 23 of Courage Speaks, host Sam Sherman reconnects with Dr. Paul Kachoris for a profound exploration into "The Shadow Weekend," a transformational retreat deeply rooted in Carl Jung's teachings. Building on their previous conversation in episode 19, Dr. Kachoris delves into the life-changing experiences from this retreat, which invites participants to confront and embrace their inner "s...

Welcome to Episode 22 of Courage Speaks hosted by Sam Sherman. In this conversation, Sam sits down with Micah Shapiro, a licensed clinical social worker, to explore the interconnectedness of our experiences, relationships, and moments that define our paths. Micah shares his personal journey in the field of mental health, sparked by a childhood encounter with a mental health therapist after the los...

On Episode 21 of Courage Speaks, we welcome Jody Bechtold, a leading expert in gambling addiction, to discuss the rapidly evolving landscape of problem gambling. We explore Jody's journey from corporate to clinical social work, her involvement with the treatment of gambling disorders, and the unique challenges posed by the rise of online gambling. Jody shares insights into the changing demographic...

Welcome to The Courage Speaks Halloween Spectacular. In this thrilling episode, we delve into the enigmatic world of fear. Why are we drawn to the eerie and unsettling even when we know danger might be lurking? As a dedicated horror fan, Sam explores these questions with the help of some intriguing experts. Join Sam as he converses with Mathias Clasen, a world-renowned horror researcher, Leonard P...

This week on Courage Speaks: What happens when men are given permission to be vulnerable? Host Sam Sherman sits down with Dr. Paul Kachoris, a psychiatrist who spent years in a traditional medical career before a single weekend changed everything. That weekend led him to shift his focus toward helping men tap into something rarely talked about—emotions. Dr. Kachoris tells the story of that pivotal...

Welcome to episode 18 of Courage Speaks.  This episode is brought to you by Courage to Connect, an outpatient mental health center located on Chicago's North Shore, offering therapy, psychological testing, psychiatry, and dietician services for all ages. Today's episode features the story of Dr. Michael Clatch, therapist, entrepreneur, and founder of Courage to Connect. Dr. Clatch shares his perso...

Join us on Episode 17 of Courage Speaks as we delve into an enlightening conversation with Dr. Camilo Ortiz, a professor at Long Island University and a practicing psychologist, known for his groundbreaking work in independence therapy for children and adolescents. Dr. Ortiz shares his journey from aspiring veterinarian to esteemed psychologist and discusses the innovative concept of Independence-...

Welcome to episode 16 of Courage Speaks. This week, host Sam Sherman talks with Kimberly Novotny, a dietician at Courage to Connect, about the myths of diet culture and how to cultivate a healthier relationship with food. Kimberly shares her journey from marketing to dietetics and how her passion for wellness shapes her work with clients of all ages. They discuss the impact of social media trends...

Welcome to Episode 15 of Courage Speaks, hosted by Sam Sherman and brought to you by Courage to Connect, an outpatient mental health center located on Chicago's North Shore. In this episode, Sam speaks with Coraline Dubois, a school psychologist and clinician at Courage to Connect Mental Health Center, who shares her unique journey from equine management to psychology. She discusses the integratio...

On today’s episode of Courage Speaks, we have a very special guest— my friend and soon-to-be co-worker, Patrick Mooney. Patrick's inspiring journey into the field of mental health is a testament to the power of self-reflection and perseverance. He made a bold career change, pursued his passion at Adler University, and gained invaluable experience during his clinical internship at the Juniper Cente...

Welcome to episode 13 of Courage Speaks. On today's episode, we're joined by Deanna Belos, the front-woman of the Chicago-based band Sincere Engineer. Deanna shares her experiences with generalized anxiety disorder, the impact of therapy, and how she manages the pressures of performing. She reflects on the supportive Chicago punk scene, the challenges of balancing productivity with self-care, and...

In Episode 12 of Courage Speaks, delve into a profound discussion with mental health expert Marissa Kaelter, as she illuminates the societal constructs of "productivity" and offers strategies to navigate the associated guilt of non-conformity. Drawing from her rich experiences as a therapist, parent, and individual, Kaelter shares invaluable insights on productivity, mental health care, and coping...

Welcome to Episode 11 of Courage Speaks, where host Sam Sherman engages in an intimate conversation with one of the most inspiring military leaders, General Gregg Martin. In this episode, General Martin openly shares his personal experiences battling bipolar disorder, illustrating his struggles from exhilarating manic highs to challenging depressive lows. This discussion provides a deeper understa...

Welcome to Episode 10 of Courage Speaks. Our host Sam Sherman engages in a conversation with Mayor Hillary Schieve of Reno, Nevada, who has been spearheading her community since 2014. A Woman of the Year named by USA Today, Mayor Schieve shares her personal journey with mental health and her thriving vision for improved mental wellness in her community. Through her vivid anecdotes, Mayor Schieve t...

In the 9th episode of Courage Speaks, we welcome licensed clinical social worker, Keri Golding. Join us as we navigate the intricacies of parenthood, the impact of social media on adolescents, and strategies to manage mental health. Golding brings forth her expertise in ADHD, anxiety, parenting, and women's issues in an engaging conversation. She shares an enlightening discourse on her journey in...

Welcome to another stimulating episode of Courage Speaks, a journey into the captivating world of math anxiety featuring Dr. Molly Jameson, a renowned educator and researcher. In this insightful discussion, we delve into the nature and implications of math anxiety, exploring its profound influence on academic expectations, career prospects, and even daily life activities. As an early observer of t...

On Episode 7 of Courage Speaks, we sat down with Sara Reardon, an accomplished freelance journalist from Bozeman, Montana, known for her captivating stories that straddle the realms of science and society. Sara's journey, which began with research on mouse sperm and retinas, has evolved into a dynamic career in science journalism. With contributions to renowned publications like Nature, New Scient...

On Episode 6 of Courage Speaks, we have the pleasure of welcoming Amanda Stephans, the Assistant Clinical Director at Courage to Connect, as our guest. During this episode, Amanda delves into her journey that has brought her to her current role within the organization. She candidly discusses her approach to cultivating strong therapeutic connections with her patients and offers valuable insights i...

Rae McDaniel is a leading LGBTQ+ advocate, therapist, and author, renowned for their dedicated support of transgender and non-binary communities. Their most recent literary creation, "Gender Magic," delves into the realms of identity and self-discovery, presenting a profound and transformative outlook on the concept of gender. Rae's commitment to advocacy extends well beyond their writing, encompa...