Rebranding Mental Health

What happens when crisis care becomes crisis creation ?  In this episode of Rebranding Mental Health , Iman and Kurt are pulling back the curtain on psychiatric hospitals: the good, the bad, and the deeply broken. This isn’t just about walls and restraints — it’s about a mental health system designed for containment, not compassion.  You’ll hear: Firsthand insight from a survivor  A breakdown of w...

Needs aren’t just "nice to have" — they’re the foundation of how we experience life. This week, Iman and Kurt dive deeper into why recognizing and meeting our core needs isn’t just important — it’s essential for real well-being. Building off last episode’s conversation about Maslow’s hierarchy, we explore how different theories of well-being fit together — and why understanding your own...

We all want to be happy — but have you ever stopped to ask what happiness really means? In this episode, Iman and Kurt unpack why happiness isn’t just about success or feeling good — it’s a deeper, more personal practice shaped by needs, purpose, and connection. They're joined by a very special guest, Josh Becker — Iman's friend and fellow musician from their touring band — to explore wh...

🎙️ New Episode: The Great Unraveling – How America’s Failing Institutions Are Breaking Our Mental Health (And How We Rebuild) Something deeper than burnout is happening. In this episode, we dive into The Great Unraveling —a cultural and psychological reckoning with the collapse of social infrastructure in America. From schools and healthcare to community spaces and spiritual centers, we explore ho...

Ever feel like it takes more energy to care, connect, or just feel these days? You’re not imagining it. In this episode, we explore the idea of emotional inflation —how our feelings are being stretched thin in a world of constant alerts, global crises, performative vulnerability, and productivity pressure. In this episode of Rebranding Mental Health, Iman and Kurt dig into what’s driving the cost...

🎙️ New Episode: Who’s Really in Control? The American Illusion of Power Over Everything In a culture that tells us we can manifest, optimize, and hustle our way into total control, Iman and Kurt explore the emotional toll of chasing power that was never really ours to begin with.  This episode of Rebranding Mental Health, breaks down the concept of locus of control —how we see the balance between...

🧠🔎 The Great American Attention Crisis 🔎🧠 Ever feel like your focus is slipping away? Meaning, matter how hard you try, your brain is constantly pulled in a million directions? 📱📺📢 You’re not imagining it—our attention is under siege. In this episode of Rebranding Mental Health,  The Great American Attention Crisis: How Cultural Instability Has Hijacked Our Focus , Kurt and Iman unpack: 🔹...

🚶‍♀️✨  Doing Less, Being More: The Science of Slow Living  ✨🚶‍♂️ In a world that rewards hustle and glorifies busyness, what if doing less actually allowed you to be more ? 🤯 In this episode of Rebranding Mental Health, Iman and Kurt unpack the science behind slow living —why our brains and bodies crave a gentler pace, how slowing down can boost creativity and mental clarity, and practical wa...

🌍 Still Holding Our Breath: Adjust to a World in Flux 🎙️ We’re living in a time of nonstop change—social shifts, global crises, and uncertainty at every turn. It’s easy to feel like we’re holding our breath, waiting for stability that never quite comes. This episode of Rebranding Mental Health, Iman and Kurt guide how to navigate the chaos without getting lost in it. We’re talking real talk, real...

Should schools ban phones, or is this just another band-aid solution? In this episode of Rebranding Mental Health , Iman and Kurt dive into the recent New York Times article and podcast exploring the growing movement to remove phones from classrooms. While some see it as a way to improve focus and mental health, others argue it ignores deeper issues in education and student well-being. Let’s break...

What if mental health wasn’t just an afterthought in schools but a core part of education? In this episode of Rebranding Mental Health , Iman and Kurt discuss Iman's proposal for a TOTAL Health curriculum—an integrated approach to brain health, psychological well-being, social development, and life skills in K-12 education. I’ll also share insights from my upcoming book, Rebranding Mental Hea...

Why does it feel like we’re always chasing the next thing or dwelling on the past? In this episode of Rebranding Mental Health , Iman and Kurt explore America’s struggle to live in the present—how consumerism fuels the obsession with “what’s next,” and why our fixation on yesterday and tomorrow keeps us from fully experiencing today. Let’s unpack the cost of this mindset and how we can reclaim the...

This episode on the Rebranding Mental Health Podcast, titled, "Balance is Bullshit," Iman and Kurt discuss the common notion of achieving perfect balance in life. Iman presents the concept of  balance as an ongoing practice, an evolving process rather than a fixed destination. Whether you’re seeking more harmony in your daily routine or looking to reframe your mindset, this episode helps...

Is mental health really the sole cause of school violence, or is that just an easy scapegoat? In this episode of Rebranding Mental Health , Iman and Kurt break down the dangers of oversimplifying complex issues and explore the systemic factors that contribute to school violence—education policies, social dynamics, access to resources, and more. Let’s move beyond blame and start addressing real sol...

In this episode, Iman and Kurt welcome into the studio, Heather Bennett, the inspiring owner of We Rock the Spectrum Racine County. Together, we explore what true accessibility and inclusion look like in today's world.  Our guest, Heather, shares insights on the importance of designing systems that cater to all individuals, regardless of ability, and the challenges that arise when trying to m...

In this episode of Rebranding Mental Health, Iman and Kurt explore the profound impact of culture on our development and it's influences on our mental health; examining how cultural norms, values, and practices shape our emotional well-being.  Iman and Kurt  speak from their countries of origin perspective, American culture, and discuss these perspectives influence individual experiences. Joi...

In this episode, Iman and Kurt explore the power of animated movies as tools for teaching mental health concepts to audiences of all ages. Discussing how movies such as "Inside Out" and "Finding Nemo" illustrate complex emotions, coping mechanisms, and mental health challenges in an accessible and engaging way. Join them as they delve into the narratives and characters that pro...

In this episode, Iman and Kurt talk about the complexities of social media use and its impact on mental health. They offer strategies for navigating the digital landscape mindfully, avoiding the pitfalls of constant connectivity. Through research-based findings and personal anecdotes, Iman and Kurt discuss the importance of setting boundaries and cultivating a healthier relationship with social me...

Join Iman and Kurt in this episode to inspire listeners to reflect on and embrace the practices that bring joy, meaning, and connection into their lives, encouraging an appreciation for the rich tapestry of human culture and shared experiences. https://www.bloomingminds.org https://www.instagram.com/imanlkhan/ https://www.facebook.com/bloomingminds.org "Rebranding Mental Health: A Movement, N...

This episode delves into the profound impact seasonal changes have on our mental and physical health. Exploring the science and spirituality behind how shifts in the environment can influence mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. Shot out to Milwaukee Public Zoo.  Join us and be "Wow-ed," as we uncover practical tips, advice, and personal stories on navigating life's seasonal...

Join Iman and Kurt as they continue their conversation on making a case for a mental health curriculum, or TOTAL health curriculum.  In this episode, Iman discusses her proposed vision for what is needed and how it can be integrated and customized.  https://www.bloomingminds.org https://www.instagram.com/imanlkhan/ https://www.facebook.com/bloomingminds.org "Rebranding Mental Health: A Moveme...

Listen in with Iman and Kurt as Iman presents her thoughts on why a mental health core curriculum or a, "Total Health," core curriculum is needed in every school.  Prevention requires knowledge and knowledge is meaningless if it is not put into action. Please join Iman and Kurt in this important two part  series.  https://www.bloomingminds.org https://www.instagram.com/imanlkhan/ https:/...

In this special Halloween Episode of Rebranding Mental Health, Iman and Kurt discuss their favorite holiday, Halloween. Tune in and listen as they go beyond the goblins, ghosts and ghouls, into the traditions and activities; discussing how some may promote skills such as resiliency, emotional regulation, and stress recovery.  There is never a dull moment with Iman and Kurt as they present concepts...

In this episode, Iman and Kurt discuss Values. Core Values are the roots of our human experience that ground us in our everyday choices. Most of us have a general understanding of what’s important to us (values) and what we believe in (beliefs), but it’s the clarity of both that truly makes the difference between living proactively versus, reactively.  Iman discusses the Values activity she does w...

In this episode, Iman and Kurt discuss labels and how they relate to mental health. Iman explains how labels can serve as a helpful point of reference, but also have the potential to limit us in our understanding of ourselves. Using labels can make it difficult for us to appreciate the full spectrum of needs we all experience. It's important to find balance and use labels in a way that is ben...