Our Voice of ME

Starting off Season Two we explore this important topic in a two part series. In this first episode of a two-part series, our hosts trace the troubling history of institutionalization and its lasting impact on people with lived experience of mental health challenges. Community leaders Pat Deegan and Kelly Staples join the conversation to share their experiences and expertise, bearing witness to a...

In this second episode of a two-part series, our conversations continue to dive into the lived realities of a system that has shaped, and too often harmed, the people it was meant to serve. Simonne Maline , Judge Dan Wathen , and Vickie McCarty bring decades of experience working within the mental health system and the courts to share what they've seen, what's changed, and what still nee...

In this special episode, we cover question number one on the Maine referendum ballot . We sit down with two community leaders who share the importance of accessible voting and discuss ways we can advocate for voters living with disabilities . Our guests share insight into question one and how it would affect accessible voting if it were to pass. We also hear from a Mainer who speaks about his expe...

TW: self-harm; institutionalization; suicidal ideation; suicide attempt; abuse; substance use  In the third episode of our conversation on art and recovery, Our Voice of Maine welcomes peer artists Bob Bergeron, Ant, and Hope Becker. Each shares their unique mental health journey and how art has supported their healing and connection to others. These chats highlight the transformative role creativ...

TW: suicide/self harm In our second of three episodes surrounding the world of art and mental health, we sit down with several peers at the Shalom House Art Program in Portland.  Tenney Swift, John Russell, Kristin, Daniell Moores, and Frank ( order of story ) each share their experiences with mental health and how art has been an impactful tool for recovery.  Each of the artists is involved with...

TW: Institutionalization In this episode of Our Voice of Maine , we speak with Natasha Mayers of the Artists’ Rapid Response Team about the power of art in personal and collective recovery. Natasha shares her experiences as an artist-activist, the role of creativity in navigating mental health challenges, and how art can be a powerful tool for resilience, expression, and social change. Interview R...

TW: Substance use; suicide   In this special episode, we talk with Nio DiPietrantonio , founder of Serving Up Support Maine , about mental health and substance use struggles in the hospitality industry. Nio shares her personal journey and what led her to launch this grassroots support initiative that is fostering community care among hospitality workers in Maine.  Interview Recorded: June 6, 2025...

We are so excited to kick off Pride Month with an episode from a very important mental health community leader, Karin Heim!  Karin shares her experiences as a queer mental health provider. She also discusses the vital work being done to support the mental health and well-being of LGBTQ+ youth across the state. Whether you're a parent, educator, mental health advocate, or community member, thi...

TW: substance use; psychiatric hospitalization; suicidal ideation In the continued celebration of Pride Month, we bring you a powerful and heartfelt episode highlighting the voices of LGBTQIA+ mental health peers sharing their lived experience. Our guests share personal stories of resilience and discovery of identity. They speak candidly about the intersection of queerness and mental health, inclu...

In this heartfelt introductory episode of Our Voices of ME , we sit down with four staff and board members from the Consumer Council System of Maine (CCSM) as they share their deeply personal lived experience stories with mental health challenges and services. These brave storytellers reflect on their journeys through struggle, healing, resilience, and advocacy — highlighting the importance of pee...

TW: involuntary hospitalization; physical restraints; Electroconvulsive therapy In this episode, we’re joined by Kim Moody , Executive Director of Disability Rights Maine , for an insightful conversation about the intersection of physical disabilities and mental health . Kim shares her advocacy experience and discusses how inclusive systems, accessible services, and lived experience play a critica...

Our Voice of ME, amplifying voices of individuals with lived experiences in mental health services in Maine. Highlighting personal stories, fostering awareness, and inspiring systemic change, aligning with our mission to advocate for and empower peers. Check out this podcast trailer for more information!