Speak Out Loud

Merry Christmas to all of the listeners and followers of the Speak Out Loud podcast! We are so thankful for you and that you are a part of our mission to share hope and encouragement for those who struggle with mental health and to those who love them. Christmas has not always been an easy or merry time for Stacee or our family throughout the mental illness journey. Traumatic experiences, difficult memories, and unmet expectations (of ourselves and others) can all make the holiday season difficult for many people. What is billed as a "joyous" season for many is filled with increased depression, heightened anxiety, and loneliness. In this episode, Stacee talks about struggling with difficult memories during the Christmas season, and how she has been able to work through those to establish new traditions and new memories for herself and our family. The apostle John beautifully summarizes the entry of Jesus into the world this way: "The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it" (John 1:5). This Christmas we celebrate that Jesus brings His light and hope to the darkest places in our world and our lives, and certainly to the darkness of mental illness. We invite you to listen to this episode as we walk through this Christmas season together and not alone. May the grace and love and joy of God and Savior, Jesus, be yours this Christmas season and into the New Year. Blessings to each of you our listeners and friends. --Stacee and Doug

In this episode, Stacee shares a conversation with Hope Johnson. Hope has experience with depression and suicidal ideation. By walking through great trials and suffering, Hope has found an immense amount of healing and hope in writing, community, and the Lord's presence. In this conversation, you will find yourself invited into what it truly means to experience the goodness of God, amidst pain and suffering. Both Hope and Stacee provide insight into what it truly means to invite the Lord into pain. You can follow Hope Johnson on Instagram at @hope_jaazaniah and check out her website at www.hopeunyielding.com. Follow Speak Out Loud @speakoutloud.me and check out our website with multiple resources at www.speakoutloud.me.

In this episode, Stacee and Doug share a conversation with self-injury support advocate, Brittany Tinsley. Through her writing and authentically sharing her experience and story, Brittany is helping to raise awareness and normalize the conversation around self-harm. In this episode, Brittany shares about the traumatic experience which led to her first experience with self-harm, the behavior "turning the tables" and becoming an out of control part of her life, and her journey of finding help and living in authentic recovery. Brittany and Stacee both shine light into this struggle which thrives in the darkness of our secrets and hidden world. As difficult and scary as it may be for both those who struggle with self-harm and for those who love them, having the courage to bring this struggle out of the darkness and into the light of conversation is the beginning of experiencing hope and finding true relief. Brittany and Stacee share insights and experience on live in recoverying and encouragement for those who love someone struggling with self-harm. Brittany Tinsley is a wife, a mom, a writer, and one walking the self-harm recovery journey. You can find Brittany and her writing on Instagram @brittanytinselywrites and at brittanytinsley.substack.com. Learn more about Stacee and Doug's mission to share hope and encouragement for those who struggle with mental health and for those who love and support them at www.speakoutloud.me and on Instagram @speakoutloud.me.

An eating disorder is a severe mental health condition characterized by abnormal eating habits and a preoccupation with food, weight, and body image. People with eating disorders often have a distorted perception of their body shape or weight and may engage in extreme behaviors related to food, eating, and exercise. Ultimately, individuals with eating disorders need professional help, as treatment typically involves a combination of therapy, nutritional counseling, and sometimes medication. In this episode, Stacee and Doug are joined by Gracie Evans and Rebecca Brumm, who along with Sarah King, form Whole Hive Counseling in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Whole Hive Counseling focuses on creating a space for individuals to find healing while providing authentic, expert therapy. Both women are exceptionally passionate and trained to walk with struggling individuals and families surrounding them. Along with counseling services provided, Whole Hive also offers a resource and coaching program called "Parenting Through Eating Disorders." These resources and contact information for Eating Disorder treatment can be found at their website and at the link below. This episode blends education and hope for both those who struggle with an eating disorder and those who love them. Check out resources at Whole Hive Counseling: ⁠Whole Hive Counseling ⁠ Follow Speak Out Loud on Instagram: @speakoutloud.me Check out our Website: Speak Out Loud Order Stacee's newest book: You Are Worth Saving Website Mention: National Eating Disorder Association - www.Nationaleatingdisorders.org Additional Resource: Oklahoma Eating Disorder Association - www.okeatingdisorders.org

Eating disorders are complex and severe mental health conditions characterized by disturbed eating habits, distorted body weight, and shape perceptions. People of all genders, ages, and backgrounds can be affected. Among the many variations of eating disorders, recovery from an eating disorder is a challenging journey that requires time, support, and patience. In this episode, our Social Media Manager, Alex Davis, joins us to share a piece of her story with a 15-year eating disorder. She discusses the impact of her struggle on her mind, heart, and body. Alex, Stacee and Doug talk through various aspects of finding healing in the Lord, working through one's trauma in differing forms of therapy, and how one might continue to walk boldly into healing. This is an incredibly insightful and moving episode. We hope you enjoy the topics we touch on, and please stay tuned for more! Follow Speak Out Loud @speakoutloud.me Follow Alex & Natalie at The Everything Project  @the.everyhingproject Follow Alex @alexandra_j_davis_ Authors mentioned in the episode: John Eldredge and Dan Allender  Order Stacee's newest book: You Are Worth Saving  

What do you do when you come to the end of your rope - when you come to end of your own capacity to make life work apart from God? A shared experience and connection bring Doug and special guest, Morgan Snyder of Become Good Soil and Wild at Heart, together for a conversation about carrying hope for a spouse in a mental health crisis. Even more, though, this conversation focuses on us and how the most difficult experiences can reveal our broken places but also open a doorway for God to begin to heal and grow us into men better equipped to love and strive for those God has entrusted to our care. For men, and also for women, for those who struggle with mental health and for those who love and support them, there's something for everyone in this episode. Special thanks to Morgan for so freely giving of his time, experience, wisdom and love for God and others in this episode! Morgan Snyder is a grateful husband of over 20 years and a proud father of a wildly creative and witty daughter and a joyful and passionate son. He serves as a strategist, entrepreneur, teacher, writer, and speaker. His passion is to both be shaped by and shape the men and women who are shaping the kingdom of God. In 2010, he established BecomeGoodSoil, a fellowship of leaders whose global reach offers guidance for the narrow road of becoming the kind of person to whom God can confidently entrust the care of his kingdom. Morgan serves on the executive leadership team at Wild at Heart and has contended for the wholeheartedness of men and women alongside John and Stasi Eldredge for more than two decades. He has led over a decade of Become Good Soil Intensives and sold out Wild at Heart men's events across the United States, United Kingdom, South Africa, and Australia. Morgan goes off the grid every chance he gets, whether bowhunting in the Colorado wilderness or choosing the adventurous life with his greatest treasures: his wife, Cherie; his son, Joshua; and his daughter, Abigail. You can learn more about Morgan, the Become Good Soil podcast, and the resources he offers at becomegoodsoil.com. His book, Becoming a King: The Path to Restoring the Heart of a Man, was published in 2020 and can be found most places books are sold. As Morgan mentions in this episode, you can access resources for the Becoming a King retreat at becomingakingretreat.com. You can learn more about Doug and Stacee Goetzinger and their mental illness recovery journey at their website, speakoutloud.me, including information on Stacee's book, You Are Worth Saving, speaking resources, and access to all episodes of The Speak Out Loud podcast. The Speak Out Loud podcast is sharing hope and encouragement for those who struggle with mental illness and for those who love and support them. Let's experience hope together!

Recovery is not a straight-line story. In this episode recorded on their wedding anniversary, Stacee and Doug talk about rough beginnings in their marriage, the ups and downs, mistakes, failures, and also progress and hope in their lengthy mental illness journey, and how God met them at each point along the way. We invite you to listen to today's episode as Stacee and Doug share about desperation, resilience, experiencing hope, and about the faithfulness of God in the deepest struggles with mental illness. This is not a straight-line story, but the good news is that God doesn't need straight lines to restore, rebuild and create beauty out your deepest hurts, brokenness and mess. The Speak Out Loud podcast and Speak Out Loud resources are sharing hope and encouragement for those who struggle with mental health and for those who love and support them. We'd love for you to learn more about Speak Out Loud - you can visit www.speakoutloud.me and follow on Instagram and Facebook @speakoutloud.me. Let's experience hope together!

Borderline Personality Disorder - a painful and often misunderstood diagnosis. Often born out of intense and/or lengthy experiences of trauma and lack of secure attachment, for those who suffer, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) can be a source of great pain, fear, and mental and emotional instability. For those who love someone struggling with BPD, it can feel like there's a "hole in the bucket," draining away the energy, trust and love they've poured into their relationship with the one they love. In this episode, frequent guest and friend, Phoebe Barron (LPC) interviews Stacee about her diagnosis and struggle with Borderline Personality Disorder and the daily mental and emotional turmoil, exhaustion, and loneliness it creates. Doug provides some lessons learned through the years of Stacee and their family living with this diagnosis along with professional information and insights from Phoebe's perspective as a LPC. There's no one we'd trust to help guide this deeply vulnerable conversation than Phoebe. For those walking a journey with BPD and for those who love them, you will connect with this conversation and Stacee's experience, you will grow in empathy and compassion for those who suffer, and you'll hear from Stacee and Phoebe how there is hope, hope even in spite of the pain and struggle Borderline Personality Disorder creates. Phoebe Barron is a LPC and a practicing therapist in greater Oklahoma City - you can find her online at phoebebarron.com and on Instagram @phoebekate. Learn more about Stacee and Doug and all things Speak Out Loud at www.speakoutloud.me. You can follow Stacee on Instagram and Facebook @speakoutloud.me.

We are so thankful and excited to begin our 3rd year of the Speak Out Loud podcast!!! This episode is a bit of a look back and also a look ahead - whether you've been a faithful listener or are new to the Speak Out Loud podcast, you are not alone in the struggle with mental health. After many years of struggling with the silence and isolation created by mental illness, we are privileged to "speak out loud' of the faithfulness of God in this journey and to share hope and encouragement for those who struggle with mental illness and for those who love and support them. As we look ahead, we invite you to join us for upcoming episodes which include a deep and vulnerable discussion with friend and LPC Phoebe Barron about Borderline Personality Disorder, an interview focused particularly for families and loved ones of someone struggling with an eating disorder, a special interview with guest Morgan Snyder, founder of Become Good Soil and the author of the book, Becoming a King, and an insider's view of the struggle with depression. We invite you on this journey for 2023 - let's experience hope together!

In this episode, Stacee and Doug interview Susie Gurley, host and creator of the "Just a Mom Podcast." Sharing from her own family's journey of a child struggling with depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation, Susie launched the "Just a Mom Podcast" in the Fall of 2022 to encourage and help parents with children of all ages struggling with mental illness. Susie weaves her personal insights and family's story into each of her episodes while also interviewing other parents and experts in the field of mental health. Susie is bringing hope and encouragement to Moms and Dads as they carry hope and help a child navigating the hard, uncertain, and fearful world of mental illness. Stacee and Doug visit with Susie about lessons she and her husband have learned through their family's journey, look back on things they wish they might have done differently but also highlight things they can see now they did right. Susie also shares their son's inspirational story of the impact he is making for thousands of young people in the Kansas City area through the You Matter Festival each year. Whatever struggle you, a child, or a loved one may be facing, you'll be encouraged by Susie's authenticity, her vulnerability, and the courage and resilience of a Mom to do whatever it takes to help their child find help and hope. Mental illness is isolating for those who struggle and also for those who love and support them. You are not alone in your journey - we need each other and the community the "Just a Mom" and "Speak Out Loud" podcasts bring. You can find the "Just a Mom Podcast" wherever you listen to podcasts or visit thejustamompodcast.com. You can learn more about Stacee and Doug and their mission to share hope and encouragement for those who struggle with mental illness and for those who love and support them at speakoutloud.me.

This was probably our hardest episode to record yet. For Stacee, this topic and story is deeply vulnerable, personal, painful and still tough to talk about. In this episode Doug interviews both Stacee and friend and LPC Deanna James on the topic of cutting and self-harm. Stacee has written a chapter in her book, You Are Worth Saving, on cutting, but this hour+ episode is the most in depth she has publicly spoken about her personal struggle with cutting and self-harm. Along with Stacee's personal experience and insight, LPC Deanna James brings professional knowledge, insight and guidance for those who may struggle with self-harm and for parents, loved ones and friends of someone who struggles. In this episode, Stacee and Deanna help to bring light to the following topics and questions: *Is there a connection between self-harm and suicide? *Signs to look for that may indicate a loved one or friend is struggling with cutting or other forms of self-harm *How to start a conversation with someone you care about who may be struggling with self-harm *Why some turn to self-harm as part of their mental illness journey *Creating boundaries and safe-guards for a child or loved-one who struggles with cutting or other forms of self-harm *How someone struggling with hurting themselves can begin to find help and some steps they can begin to take even before meeting with a therapist *Hope and encouragement for those facing this battle and for those who love them We recognize this conversation and topic can be triggering for individuals struggling with self-harm, Stacee and Deanna navigate their personal and professional experience with this struggle with honest and vulnerable conversation without providing graphic or triggering content. Self-harm thrives in secrecy and shame, and its power is greatly weakened once it's brought into the light. Hope and help are available and possible for those struggling with self-harm. **For anyone struggling with suicidal thoughts or experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988 for immediate help. To learn more about Deanna and her practice, visit DeannaJamescounseling.com. You can connect with Stacee and Doug and learn more their mental illness and recovery journey and their mission to bring hope to those struggling with mental health and to those who love and support them by visiting at www.speakoutloud.me

In this episode, Stacee and Doug interview longtime friend, Dr. Brenda Elledge, of Elledge Counseling Associates located in the DFW metroplex. This is Brenda's second visit to the Speak Out Loud podcast - you can find her first interview with Stacee on Doug on the topic of how/when to seek counseling at SOL episode #17. For several decades, Brenda and her team have guided thousands of people to find hope and help for their mental health and emotional lives. Brenda recently received her PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision and has a passion for helping others develop their skills to professionally serve those struggling with mental health. For many years, Dr. Elledge has also been an adjunct professor at her, Stacee and Doug's alma mater, Dallas Baptist University. Stacee and Doug visit with Brenda about the connections between mental health and mental illness and several key practices people can make a part of their lives to maintain and improve their mental health. When a mental health struggle turns into a crisis, Brenda shares the initial steps she takes to help patients and those who love them find hope when hope feels lost. Stacee and Doug share about the pain, confusion, and fear from their own experience of being in the depths of a mental health crisis and, from those hard-learned lessons, what do to, what not to do, and how, with the help of family, friends and professional counseling, hope and life could be found out of that pit. God has not promised a life free of trouble, but He does promise you can overcome whatever you or a loved one are facing through him. "Take heart! I have overcome the world!" (Jesus - John 16:33) To connect with Dr. Elledge and her practice, visit www.elledgecounseling.com To learn more about Stacee and Doug and their message of hope for those struggling with mental health and for those who love and support them, visit www.speakoutloud.me.

Troy and Amy Jackson join Stacee and Doug to share a vulnerable conversation about parenting children struggling with mental health. Depression and anxiety are skyrocketing for children and teens today like never before. When a mental illness crisis occurs, parents and families can feel lost, overwhelmed, exhausted, and not know where to turn for help. Today's guests know and understand because they've been there and are still on that journey. Out of the depths of personal experience, Troy and Amy share encouragement, hope, and some hard-learned lessons for other parents loving, guiding, and fighting the good fight for a child struggling with the pain of mental illness. Troy and Amy are the talk openly about building resilience, navigating the fine lines between discipline and mental health care, and the fears, the weariness, and the stress which mental illness brings into a home. Troy and Amy also share about the importance of supporting each other in the journey, guiding children through doubts of faith and God, and living each day with hope. Parents with children struggling with mental health and those who love and care for someone on this journey will connect with Troy and Amy's story, be encouraged that you are not alone in this struggle, and be invited to experience God's deep love for those who experience mental illness. If you have a child, spouse, loved one or friend struggling with mental illness, you are not alone. We invite you to listen as we continue to build a community of hope for those who struggle with mental illness and for those who love and support them.

Have you ever wondered if your story matters? Does God see your struggle with mental health and the pain it brings to your life? Can you trust him with your hurt, your mental health, and to give you hope? In this episode, Stacee and Doug interview friend, Bible teacher, and ministry leader Vickey Banks about finding hope even in the most difficult seasons of life. Out of a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a passion for helping others connect the Bible to their everyday lives, Vickey visits with Stacee and Doug about God's immense love for those who struggle with mental health and the hope He can provide. For many, mental illness creates feelings of loneliness, isolation, and questions if anyone really understands or knows the depths of the hurt and struggle. Vickey shares with vulnerability about her own experience of feeling overwhelmed with loss, grief, and a sense of hopelessness and how God spoke to her words of hope and life through the Bible to bring a renewed mental peace and happiness back into her life. If you've struggled to connect with the Bible or have wondered if reading the Bible is for you, Vickey shares practical ideas and tools on how to begin reading the Bible and to find ways to apply it to your life. She also shares with Stacee and Doug some surprises which the Bible might offer those struggling with their mental health and trying to hang onto hope. Vickey Banks is passionate about helping women connect the dots between God's Word and their everyday lives. As an author, Bible study teacher, inspirational speaker and disciple-maker, she loves serving as Women's Ministry Director at Council Road Baptist Church, as a LifeWay Women's Ministry Trainer and as a member of the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma's Women's Leadership Team. She has written or is a contributing author to a large number of books, devotional Bibles, ministry guides, magazines and blogs, as well as Bible study and discipleship curriculum. Vickey has a degree in Interpersonal Communication and is currently pursuing a Master of Biblical Studies. She loves sailing with her husband, celebrating her people, travel, and getting lost in a good story. You can find Vickey's book, Sharing His Secrets, Intimate Insights from the Women who Knew Jesus, at the following link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1576738930?tag=randohouseinc11082-20 You can learn more about hosts Stacee and Doug and all things Speak Out Loud at www.speakoutloud.me. The Speak Out Loud podcast is bringing hope and encouragement to those who struggle with mental health and for those who love and support them.

There are some episodes you record which you just can't wait to produce and release - and this is one of them! In today's episode, Stacee and Doug interview Caryn Ross (the SassyMama). Caryn shares her powerful and inspiring story of recovery in her private battle with alcoholism. With authenticity, vulnerability and humor, Caryn shares about struggles growing up and stresses as a young mother which led to seeking relief in "Mommy's sippy cup" - her afternoon glass of wine to relax from the pressures of raising two young children and to numb out from the deep loss she was experiencing in her life. As Caryn shares, her glass of wine expanded into 44 ounces hidden in a Styrofoam cup so that her children and others wouldn't see her growing dependence on alcohol. Caryn admits to quickly becoming an alcoholic and about the moment of brokenness and crisis which began her recovery journey. Regardless of the struggle you are facing, you will connect with Caryn's story and be inspired as she shares of the journey to sobriety, discovering the value of community, re-connecting with her faith, and most of all finding hope and life. Today Caryn is a well-known member of the Oklahoma City media as the Food and Travel host for News 9 (Central Oklahoma's CBS affiliate) sharing her famous recipes and unique travel experiences from around the world. As Caryn began her sobriety journey, she unexpectedly won a national cooking competition, was featured on the Rachel Ray show and in Real Simple magazine and began her career in broadcast media. Caryn is also well known on social media as the SassyMama sharing recipes, encouragement, and the joy of life from her family's adventures. Caryn not only loves to share her joy of cooking and travel, but she also has a passion for sharing about the risks posed by alcohol, particularly for women, and the hope and freedom she has found living in sobriety. Learn more about Caryn at https://www.news9.com/story/62326868335003072898effc/caryn-ross You can find Caryn on Instagram at @carynsassymamaross and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/caryn.ross.9 To find help in a struggle with alcohol, other addiction, or to connect with a recovery group near you, visit HopeisAlive.net, celebraterecovery.com, or AA.org. Or find help at another recovery program or center near you - help and hope can be experienced! To learn more about the Speak Out Loud podcast and hosts Stacee and Doug Goetzinger, visit www.speakoutloud.me. The Speak Out Lout podcast seeks to bring hope and encouragement to those struggling with mental health and to those who love and support them.

The number of people experiencing anxiety has increased at incredible rates over the last several years. If you struggle with anxiety - you are not alone. For those not sharing in this struggle, most likely you have a loved one or close friend either openly or secretly battling this debilitating mental illness. Each person's experience with anxiety may affect them in unique and personal ways, but for those who struggle, it can be suffocating and can rob you of peace, happiness, hope and the quality of life you desire. In this episode, Stacee and Doug revisit the topic of anxiety with LPC Phoebe Barron. Phoebe is the first 3rd time guest on the Speak Out Podcast! You can hear our previous episodes with Phoebe at SOL#9 and SOL#15 which focus on the topics of anxiety and trauma. Phoebe is a practicing therapist and also a seminary professor. Phoebe specializes in working with clients struggling with anxiety and the impacts of trauma. She has a special gift for painting word pictures and helping to describe both the biological and neurological causes of anxiety as well as tools for dealing with its impact. Throughout this episode Stacee weaves in her experience with this disease, and Doug shares lessons learned and experiences of how to better support a loved one fighting this battle. We invite you to listen to discover tools for dealing with your anxiety, compassion for your loved one fighting the battle, and most of all hope that anxiety doesn't have to be a life sentence and that better days are ahead. In this episode Phoebe also provides encouragement and guidance for what to do when someone is facing a mental health crisis. We've been there, and it can be very scary not knowing what to do or where to turn. If you or a loved one are experiencing a mental health crisis, call the new mental health hotline by dialing 988 for help. Phoebe's private practice is located in Bethany, OK (part of the OKC metro area), and you can find her online at phoebebarron.com and on Instagram @phoebekate. Learn more about Stacee and Doug and all things Speak Out Loud at www.speakoutloud.me.

Welcome to Season 4 of the Speak Out Loud podcast! Whether you are a faithful, returning listener or new to the podcast, we are so thankful for you and welcome you in joining us on this journey as we share hope and encouragement for those who struggle with mental illness and for those who love and support them. That's our story, and as we share our story and invite mental health professionals, friends, guests and hope-givers to join us, our passion is to bring light to the darkness of mental illness so many experience. As we look ahead, season 4 will feature episodes bringing hope and light to struggles with self-harm and borderline personality disorder. We'll re-visit some big topics like anxiety, seeking therapy, and tools for prioritizing your mental health. And you'll hear some incredible stories of recovery, of finding hope when mental illness hits home with your kids, and trusting God even in the darkest of seasons. We're so excited to share this season and these episodes and more with you as we've invited hope-givers to join with us to to put courage into (encourage) you, our friends and fellow-journeyers. In this kick-off episode Stacee and Doug catch listeners up on the last few months of their recovery journey by asking each other 5 questions. They talk about their favorite days of the summer, buying into the Top Gun Maverick hype, getting swept up into the pickleball craze, inspirational podcasts, bouts with Covid, and Stacee authentically shares about the good, the tough and the struggle of her continued mental illness recovery. Stacee and Doug conclude the episode by both sharing where they are finding and experiencing hope right now. Check out our new website, www.speakoutloud.me, to learn more about Stacee and Doug and all the things they are doing through Speak Out Loud. In addition to the website, you can follow Speak Out Loud on Facebook and Instagram and subscribe/follow/share the podcast on your favorite podcast player! You are not alone in your mental health struggle! Let's experience hope together!

**Friends, please note that this episode was recorded before the tragic school shooting in Uvalde, TX. Depression and anxiety are on dramatic rise for teenagers and young people. Pandemic disruption, impacts from being the first "social media generation," sleep deprivation, and higher levels of disconnection from meaningful relationships, on top of the normal emotional and mental challenges of teenage years, are all combining to have devastating effects on today's teens. Dr. Sam and Krissi Dallas are experienced youth pastors, teachers, and author. With a heart for teenagers and their families, and with over forty years of combined experience working with youth, Sam and Krissi have witnessed the significant rise in mental health challenges for teens in recent years. This episode is the second half of Stacee and Doug's interview with Sam and Krissi. In this episode, Sam and Krissi share practical steps for teens, parents and youth leaders for improving mental health and also share from their own personal experiences over the last several years of finding resilience and hope in dealing with some significant health challenges. Change can happen; there is hope even in what can feel hopeless for many families. We invite you to listen to the first half or the interview with Sam and Krissi in last week's episode and listen to the rest of the conversation in today's episode. Thank you for joining with us to build a community of hope for those who struggle with mental health and for those who love and support them! Dr. Sam Dallas (DMin) is the Student Ministry and Family Pastor for Chisholm Summit Community Church in Burleson, TX. Sam is a professor of student ministry and Christian apologetics. Learn more about Sam and his work with teenagers @ cscchurch.org. Krissi Dallas is the author of seven young adult fiction novels, including the Kindle Vella Production Wish Upon a Streaming Star and the Phantom Island Series. Find all of Krissi's novels and more information about her at KrissiDallas.com.

**Friends, please note that this episode was recorded before the tragic school shooting in Uvalde, TX. Depression and anxiety are on dramatic rise for teenagers and young people. Pandemic disruption, impacts from being the first "social media generation," sleep deprivation, and higher levels of disconnection from meaningful relationships, on top of the normal emotional and mental challenges of teenage years, are all combining to have devastating effects on today's teens. Dr. Sam and Krissi Dallas are experienced youth pastors, teachers, and author. With a heart for teenagers and their families, and with over forty years of combined experience working with youth, Sam and Krissi have witnessed the significant rise in mental health challenges for teens in recent years. In this interview with Stacee and Doug, Sam and Krissi share wisdom, encouragement, practical steps, and hope for teens (and their families) struggling with anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Change can happen; there is hope even in what can feel hopeless for many families. We invite you to listen to the first half of this interview with Sam and Krissi and then listen to part two of this interview to be published on June 9. Dr. Sam Dallas (DMin) is the Student Ministry and Family Pastor for Chisholm Summit Community Church in Burleson, TX. Sam is a professor of student ministry and Christian apologetics. Learn more about Sam and his work with teenagers @ cscchurch.org. Krissi Dallas is the author of seven young adult fiction novels, including the Kindle Vella Production Wish Upon a Streaming Star and the Phantom Island Series. Find all of Krissi's novels and more information about her at KrissiDallas.com

Can joy and peace be experienced while battling depression and anxiety? Can we know God loves us even as we suffer? Has God abandoned or rejected me because I struggle with mental illness? In this episode, Stacee and Doug dive into these questions and more as they share a vulnerable and authentic conversation about following Jesus while living with mental illness. God knows your mind and heart intimately - all of the good, the whole and the broken parts. He loves you with all of your pain and struggle, not just in spite of it. Stacee shares about the challenge of overcoming her past, her pain, and the ongoing impacts of mental illness to know and believe God truly loves her - even on the dark, fearful, and overwhelmingly anxious days. God's love, joy, peace and hope are not only reserved for when your recovery is finished but are gifts of God to be experienced on the journey. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. (John 1:5)

In today's episode Stacee and Doug interview two eating disorder specialists and friends, Claire Gish and Dr. Alex Meyers-Ellett. Claire and Alex share about their experiences in treating eating disorder patients, keys to recovery, the impacts of the pandemic, diet culture and social media and how Claire and Alex are seeing their patients experience hope. For those battling an eating disorder or other mental health challenge, reaching out for help is crucial to experiencing and living in recovery. Claire challenged Stacee several years ago during Stacee's inpatient eating disorder treatment to "do the hard things" - a challenge Stacee has taken to heart and encourages others that they too can do the hard things it takes to get better. Recovery is hard, but it's in doing the hard things that we find hope. Whatever your battle, help is available, and hope can begin by reaching out for help today. Info About Today's Guests: Claire Gish is a Registered and Licensed dietitian, as well as a Certified Eating Disorder Registered Dietitian and supervisor (CEDRD-S). You can find Claire and her practice in Tulsa, OK and online at www. tastelifenutritiontherapy.com. Find Claire on Instagram @tastelifetulsa. Dr. Alex Meyers-Ellett is a licensed professional counselor and college professor at Northeastern Oklahoma State University. You can find Dr. Meyers-Ellett and her practice in Tulsa, OK and online at www.yourhearttherapy.com. Find Alex on Instagram @yourhearttherapy.

Today's podcast is a recording of a message Stacee shared recently at the His Purpose Women's Retreat in Oklahoma City. Your story matters, and surrendered to Him, God can use your story, with all of its hurts and struggles, to communicate His love, grace and hope! Stories inspire us, move us and give us hope even in the darkest times. We connect through our stories - you'll connect to Stacee's story of hope in the midst of pain and lengthy struggle with mental illness, and you'll be encouraged to see how your story can tell about the goodness and greatness of God.

We all need someone who believes in us, someone who believes our story, our past with all of its hurts and pain, matters. In this episode Stacee and Doug visit with Kelly King a friend and women's ministry leader who believed in Stacee and first opened a door for her to begin sharing her story of God's sustaining love and power in her mental illness recovery journey. Stacee, Doug and Kelly talk about the video Kelly produced several years earlier highlighting some of Stacee's story called "A Love That Never Let's Go" - a link to the video is below - we invite you to click and watch. Your story matters; your belief in someone else matters. God can and will use you - your story, your words, your encouragement to bring hope and to shine a light on His love and grace. More Info and Resources from Today's Episode: "A Love That Never Lets Go" video link: https://speakoutloud.me/media-2 Kelly King is the Manager of Magazines/Devotional Publishing and Women's Ministry Training for Lifeway Christian Resources. She holds a Master of Theology degree from Gateway Seminary and was previously an adjunct professor at Oklahoma Baptist University while serving as the Women's Specialist for the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma. She is the author of Ministry to Women: The Essential Guide to Leading Women in the Local Church. Kelly co-hosts the "Marked" podcast which can be found here: https://women.lifeway.com/blog/podcasts/

Life-change begins by saying "yes" - yes to help, yes to hope, yes to God. Stacee's life changed when she said "yes" to inpatient treatment at the Laureate Eating Disorders Program where God had waiting a therapist, and now friend, who would change her life. In this episode Stacee and Doug interview Dr. Crystal Bowlby and share a vulnerable and transparent conversation about Stacee finding hope and the desire to live out of the depths of her life-long battle with anorexia. Crystal, Stacee and Doug talk about Stacee's treatment experience, keys to recovery, what family or friends of those struggling with an eating disorder should know, the life-changing impact therapy can make, and finding hope in the midst of the confusion and pain of an eating disorder and mental illness. Crystal's message to Stacee - "you have suffered enough" were words of hope and inspiration in Stacee's recovery and are now tattooed around her wrist to daily remind her of this life-giving message. Those who struggle with an eating disorder or with mental illness will connect with Stacee and Crystal's story. Family and friends of those who struggle will grow in understanding and compassion. Whether your battle is with an eating disorder or another mental illness diagnosis, you will be encouraged and find hope in this conversation for your unique journey. Dr. Crystal Bowlby has a PhD in Clinical Psychology and is certified as an eating disorder specialist through the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals. She is the lead therapist in the Laureate Adult Eating Disorders program in Tulsa, Ok. Visit https://www.saintfrancis.com/laureate/eating-disorders-program/ to learn more about the resources and treatment options provided by the Laureate Eating Disorders Program. To learn more about eating disorders and resources for treatment and help, visit the Oklahoma Eating Disorders Associations website at www.okeatingdisorders.org.

Welcome to Season 3 of the Speak Out Loud Podcast!! Thank you for joining us as we begin another season of sharing hope and encouragement for those who struggle with mental illness and for those who love and support them. In this episode, Stacee and Doug talk about the power and importance of community to overcome the mental health impacts of isolation, the hope of God's promise that His love and compassion never fail (Lamentations 3), and how God enters our broken and messy stories because our story, your story matters. We invite you to follow the Speak Out Loud podcast on social media at https://www.facebook.com/speakoutloudpodcast and Instagram @speakoutloudpodcast!

Today's episode is a conversation and interview with two special friends, Jason and Angie Brown. Jason and Angie are the founding pastors of the 1910 Church in Boerne, TX. Jason and Angie love God and love people, and you can't be with them for but a few moments and not be encouraged! You'll feel that love and encouragement as you listen to today's episode as Jason and Angie talk with Stacee and Doug about the state of mental health, God's love for the hurting and broken, and the impact their church is seeking to make for those who struggle and need help. In addition to serving as a pastor, Jason also serves as the chaplain for the Boerne police department and brings the perspective of providing care and support for those who both experience trauma and those who love and support them. Jason and Angie also share some from their personal story of recovery from a stroke Jason suffered several years ago in his mid-40s and share encouragement for those also pursuing recovery in their mental illness journey. We're so excited to bring you this interview here at Christmas time as you'll experience hope and joy in this episode and as we celebrate the Light that has come into the world which darkness cannot overcome! You can find Jason and Angie online at www.1910church.com and on Instagram as "@pastorjabro" and "@angbrownboerne" and also on Facebook. On both social media platforms you subscribe to Jason's daily encouragement entitled "2 Good Minutes."

Christmas can be a happy and hope-filled season, but for many, especially those struggling with mental illness, the holidays can be difficult. The expectations we, our families and others put on the holidays can increase anxiety and be difficult to live up to. Unmet expectations often become triggers for those struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders and other mental health issues. In this episode, Stacee and Doug interview therapist and friend Deanna James on how to Navigate the Holidays while struggling with mental illness. Deanna lays out some important and practical steps to improve mental health and to stay connected to recovery throughout the challenges the holiday season brings. Deanna, Stacee and Doug talk from both professional expertise and personal experience about the importance of keeping to a treatment plan, how family and friends can be of support, and about finding hope in this season, despite bad memories from holidays past. We invite you to join with us as we pursue and experience hope this Christmas season! *Deanna James is a LPC in private practice in Oklahoma City. She specializes in treating eating disorders, trauma, and other mental health issues, is a certified dance and movement therapist, and is the current past president of the Oklahoma Eating Disorder Association. She has over 15 years of experience in treating clients and helping others find hope and healing. You can find Deanna online at deannajamescounseling.com. To learn more about eating disorders and resources for help, visit okeatingdisorders.org.

In this episode, Stacee and Doug talk about the power of being thankful, even during the pain of a mental illness struggle. Stacee opens up about the challenges of holidays, especially Thanksgiving with such an emphasis on food, throughout her eating disorder journey and recovery. She talks about both the attitude and the practice of thankfulness, the power it has to re-focus us in our journey, and how it's helped her to be present with friends and family even when holidays celebrations can be difficult. Sometimes we have to practice thankfulness before we benefit from feeling thankful, but gratefulness can open the door to hope and shine a light into the darkness of mental illness. You are not alone in your struggle. We are thankful for you and for you joining us in building this community of hope! May you have a happy and blessed Thanksgiving week!

In this episode, Stacee and Doug continue last week's conversation on supporting a loved one or friend battling mental illness. Doug talks about lessons learned the hard way, what He'd do different to better support Stacee's journey, resilience built from milestones of hope, and the gift and promise of God's sustaining grace and love. If you are carrying hope for someone or needing some hope to carry you through right now, this episode is for you. The light shines in the darkness and the darkness (even the darkness of mental illness) has not overcome it. John 1:5 (with commentary added). Thank you for joining with us in building this community of hope!

In part one of a 2-part conversation, Stacee and Doug talk about marriage, parenting, medicine, therapy and much more as Stacee interviews Doug about his experience being the spouse and primary family supporter for her on the mental illness journey. Doug and Stacee haven't arrived at a point of completion, but they do recognize the progress and growth experienced over their many years of doing life together and walking together in Stacee's mental illness recovery. Wisdom, humor, grace, and many hard-learned lessons are revealed in today's episode. Whether you are experiencing the mental health battle or are the loved one or friend of someone facing that struggle, this episode has encouragement and hope for you!

Is God disappointed in us because of mental illness? In this vulnerable conversation, Stacee and Doug talk about the fear of disappointing others and disappointing God because of mental illness and the ups and downs of recovery. The negative thinking of depression, patterns built into us from the past, and unmet expectations for recovery can lead to disappointment and possibly projecting that disappointment onto God. The good news, though, is that God is not surprised by where you are in your mental illness journey. He knows right where you are, and He cares for you. If we let Him, God works and brings healing in our lives in His timing, in His ways, and for His purposes. God doesn't use the language of disappointment but the language of compassion and love. We invite you to listen as Stacee and Doug talk about understanding and applying these truths and promises of God into their lives and into the recovery journey.

Do I need counseling? How can I find the right therapist for me? Is what I'm experiencing normal? These and more are questions those struggling with mental health face as they consider getting help. Too often, we wait too long to seek help and miss out on some of the hope and peace that could be found much earlier. Counseling and therapy have made a huge impact in Stacee and Doug's mental illness recovery journey, and in today's episode they interview long-time friend and therapist Brenda Elledge. Brenda is the founder of Elledge Counseling Associates in the DFW metroplex and continues to lead this counseling practice which has been providing help and hope to clients for more than twenty years. Brenda is an experienced counselor, a college professor, and is wrapping up her Doctorate degree in counselor training and education. In this episode you'll hear life, you'll hear hope, and most of all you'll hear from someone who loves people deeply and wants to see them experience healing and wholeness in their mental health. You can find Brenda and Elledge Counseling Associates online at www.elledgecounseling.com. Find her and her practice on social media at https://www.facebook.com/elledge.counseling.associates and https://www.instagram.com/elledge_counseling. Follow the Speak Out Loud podcast on social media @speakoutloudpodcast and facebook.com/speakoutloudpodcast.

This episode is the recording of a deep and intimate conversation between Stacee and friend of nearly 30 years, Debbie Wallace. We invite you to listen to the wisdom and depth of this conversation as Stacee and Debbie talk about feeling like you're "too much," the importance of friendship and community in the mental illness recovery journey, and you'll hear the story of the phone call that changed Stacee's recovery trajectory and became the title of her book - You Are Worth Saving. Everybody needs a friend like Debbie, and everyone needs to know that wherever you may find yourself in your or your loved one's recovery journey, you are worth saving too.

Trauma.... it sounds so extreme. And to those who experience trauma's pain and power, it can be just that daunting. Through this interview with LPC and trauma specialist Phoebe Barron, Stacee and Doug hope to start the conversation to begin the healing process. Getting help and finding hope are possible for the impacts of trauma in your life or the life of a loved one or friend! Trauma can be experienced in an instant or be the result of long periods of hurt or neglect. It can be recent, or it can be buried in your past. Overcoming trauma's impact and influence almost always requires walking the recovery journey with someone else - to bring it into the light and remove its power from your life. Listen to today's episode for both information and resources on dealing with trauma and be encouraged in knowing you are not walking this journey alone. You can find and follow today's guest, Phoebe Barron, on Instagram @phoebekatebarron. Her private counseling practice is located in Bethany, OK. Follow the Speak Out Loud podcast on social media @speakoutloudpodcast and facebook.com/speakoutloudpodcast.

Welcome to Season 2 of the Speak Out Loud podcast! Thank you for joining us in this journey of sharing hope and encouragement for those who struggle with mental illness and for those who love and support them. There are no straight lines of recovery. Through the ups and downs, staying the course builds resilience, especially when you are suffering. In this episode, Stacee and Doug talk about making it through some recent tough weeks, regaining momentum in the recovery journey, and the value of friends and community for making it through the darkest of days. Resilience produces hope-hope that tomorrow will be better than today, hope that there is purpose in your pain, and the hope of knowing God has not abandoned you in your struggle. We're so glad you are here - let's experience hope together!

Welcome to Season 2 of the Speak Out Loud podcast! Today's brief preview provides a taste of what's ahead in season 2 - new topics, new interviews, Stacee and Doug continuing to share out their mental illness recovery journey and the same commitment to sharing hope and encouragement for those who struggle with mental illness and for those who love and support them! We hope you join us for each episode throughout season 2! Episode 1 of Season 2 - "Resilience: Navigating the Ups and Downs of Mental Illness" - drops on September 23. We can't wait to share it with you! If you haven't yet - check out the new social media pages for The Speak Out Loud podcast on both Facebook and Instagram. We hope you'll follow us there as we look forward to engaging with listeners through these social media platforms throughout season 2. See you on September 23!

In part 3 of Stacee and Doug's discussion about her battle with anorexia, they talk about what ongoing recovery looks like, finding hope, joy, and peace in the midst of the journey, and experiencing purpose in the midst of the pain of this life-long battle for Stacee. This episode also wraps Season 1 of the Speak Out Loud podcast. Thank you to those who have listened and made season 1 reality! The Speak Out Loud podcast will be back in September with new episodes, topics, special guests and more! Together we can continue to build a community of hope for those who struggle with mental illness and those who love and support them!

A lot's packed into this short episode focused on recovering well and recovering with integrity. Stacee and Doug talk about being commited to recovery, starting anew after a rough day, finding momentum, and the hope to press on even when your battle has you exhausted.

Stacee and Doug continue with their story of recovery in Stacee's battle with anorexia. In this episode, Stacee and Doug talk about Stacee's in-patient treatment program, lessons and practices learned by both Stacee and Doug, and the life-changing and life-saving impact of treatment. If you struggle with an eating disorder or any other chronic illness or issue, Stacee's journey will encourage and inspire you to press on through both the hard days and the good days of recovery. If you care about someone who battles these issues, you'll gain deeper understanding, compassion and empathy for your loved one and their struggle. There is hope for those who struggle with eating disorders and other mental heal issues - thanks for being a part of The Speak Out Loud podcast as we build this community of hope!

Mental illness is not something you can leave behind, go away for two weeks, and then return to face it refreshed and reenergized. If you go away, it goes with you. In this short, bonus episode, Stacee and Doug tackle this one question of how do you deal with never getting a day off in the struggle with mental illness. Stacee shares from her experience and also ways she has learned to deal with this struggle - even when on vacation - and find joy and thankfulness in the battle.

We're back with the first of several episodes focused on anorexia and Stacee and our family's journey of finding hope and recovery in this battle of a lifetime. In this episode, Stacee and Doug talk about the roots of her illness, the impact it's had on Stacee's life, our marriage and family, and how even in the midst of pain and brokenness, hope and life restoration can be found. If you struggle or have struggled in the past with an eating disorder, you'll connect with Stacee's story. If you love or know someone who battles this illness, you'll gain insight, grow in compassion, and better understand the battle your loved one or friend faces. For everyone who knows what it's like to battle something which tries to control or take your life, this story is for you. Together we can build a community of hope for those who struggle with eating disorders and other mental illness and for those who love and support them! *For more information and resources on how to find help and hope for eating disorders and eating disorder treatment, visit www.okeatingdisorders.org.

If you've been struggling with anxiety or love someone who does - you are not alone. Anxiety has exploded across the country and around the globe this last year. In this episode, Stacee and Doug are joined by Phoebe Barron, a LPC specializing in treating anxiety and trauma, to discuss some of anxiety's causes and triggers, what it feels like and how it impacts us in mind, body and spirit. Phoebe also shares about how we can find help and hope for coping with and overcoming anxiety. Phoebe shares some great information and insights from her practice and opens up with authenticity and vulnerability about some of the personal challenges she has had to face and overcome. You'll connect with Stacee as she shares about her ongoing battle with chronic anxiety and how it impacts her daily life and recovery. Bottom line - there is hope for those who struggle with anxiety and mental health and for those who love them. We invite you to listen and join this community of those finding hope in their mental health journey! *You can find Phoebe at her website, phoebebarron.com, and on instagram @phoebekate. You can also find Phoebe's practice in Bethany, OK.

Mental illness can be tough to talk about - in our families, with our friends, and in the church. Possibly you've felt like you can't be open about struggles with mental health in church or in circles of Christian community. Silence and isolation, though, only empower mental illness - keeping it in the dark only increases the pain for those who struggle. Jesus came to shine light into the darkness, and darkness cannot overcome his light! When functioning well, a church can be a place of encouragment, hope and healing - a hospital for the broken, hurting and those in despair. Churches are made up of broken people and for broken people! In this episode, Stacee and Doug are joined by Amy Cordova, Missions' and Women's Ministry Partner for Oklahoma Baptists, to discuss how churches can support and help those struggling with mental illness and their families. Stacee, Amy and Doug talk from their experiences about what churches are doing well, ways churches can grow, and the hope that can be found in the message and community of a church for those struggling with mental health. Maybe you've been hurt by the church, maybe you've been blessed by the church, or maybe you've never before considered church as a place that could be part of your recovery journey - wherever you find yourself, there's something in this episode for you.

Big Lies need to be combatted with Big Truths! In this episode, Stacee and Doug talk about some of the lies which have screamed in Stacee's head and whispered daily in her heart as she battles mental illness. They also identify Truths which push back on those lies and help us to understand reality more clearly and deeply. Hope is available and is found by overcoming the darkness of mental illness with Truth. The Speak Out Loud podcast is building a community of hope for those who struggle with mental health and for those who love and support them!

This panel discussion with several of Stacee's closest friends looks at the challenges, joys and realities of supporting and loving a friend who struggles with mental illness. Stacee and her friends talk about breaking through what to do when you don't know what to do or say, growing in understanding and compassion for those struggle with mental health, and the role of accountability in friendships. Whether you struggle with mental health or love someone who does, this episode is for you. Hope is found when we journey together.

Culture is often quiet about mental health treatment, or worse, the media and entertainment make fun of treatment and those who seek it. In this episode, Stacee and Doug shed light on Stacee's inpatient and outpatient mental health treatment experiences, discussing its value, its challenges, and the commitment needed to stay the course. Stacee and Doug recognize that each person's circumstances and need for help may be different, but in this episode they hope to break through some of the stereotypes of mental health treatment by sharing about it's life-saving and life-changing impact. Asking for help takes courage, but its where recovery begins. Hope is available for those who struggle with mental health and for those who love and support them!

"Depression can feel like you are swimming with all your clothes on- like you are being overwhelmed and drug under and that it's impossible to get back to the surface" (Stacee). In this episode, Stacee and Doug talk candidly about the overwhelming power of depression and its impact on their life, marriage and family. The battle with depression is an ongoing medical challenge, but Stacee and Doug help to bring deeper understanding out of their experience of this illness and talk about finding help and hope in the darkest of days. If you struggle with depression, you'll connect with Stacee's story. For those who love someone battling this disease, Doug's lessons learned the hard way help to bring a deeper compassion for your loved one or friend. There is hope to be found in the dark tunnel of depression! Together we can build a community of hope and encouragement for those who battle depression and struggle with mental health and for those who love and support them.

It's no secret the ongoing pandemic is taking a brutal toll on people's mental health around the world. Anxiety and depression are ramping up and being experienced across the globe as isolation, loneliness, fear and worry continue to increase and eat away at our hearts, minds and souls. In this episode, Stacee and Doug talk about their own experience with continuing in recovery despite this incredibly difficult season for those who struggle with mental health. Pressing on in recovery is attainable. Overcoming the overwhelming power of anxiety, depression and isolation is possible. Hope is available for those who struggle with mental health and for those who love and support them - even in the midst of a global pandemic!

Episode 2 continues our story from the pilot episode, picking up with the point where our mental health recovery begins. Recovery is an ongoing journey, but it doesn't have to be completed for your story to matter. God has not abandoned you in your mental health recovery; He is not waiting for you to reach some point of completion before He loves and accepts you. In the struggle, in the fight, God is sustaining us and can sustain you and your loved one as they walk this recovery road. Together we can build a community of hope for those who struggle with mental health and for those who love them.

The Speak Out Loud podcast is bringing hope and encouragement to those who struggle with mental health and to those who love and support them. In the pilot episode, hosts Stacee and Doug share the beginnings of their mental health and recovery journey and about the grace, love, resilience, and even joy they've discovered along the way. You are not alone in your or your loved one's mental health struggle - let's experience hope together!