Tony Mantor: Why Not Me ?

Advocacy and Awareness: Transforming Mental Health Care with Rachel Streiff In this episode of 'Why Not Me', host Tony Mantor welcomes Rachel Strife, co-founder of Arizona Mad Moms, to discuss her extensive advocacy work for individuals with serious mental illness. She shares her personal journey, inspired by a family member's experience, and describes her efforts in rallying families, influencing legislation, and advocating for systemic change in mental health care. The conversation covers the challenges in the current system, the importance of correct diagnosis and treatment, and the necessity of educating the public and lawmakers to improve mental health support and ensure public safety. Mantor and Streiff emphasize the need to replace stigma with understanding and to reallocate funds towards supervised housing and long-term care. Meet Rachel Streiff: Advocate for Mental Health Rachel's Personal Journey and Advocacy Challenges in Mental Health Care The Role of Education and Legislation Founding Arizona Mad Moms and Angry Moms Systemic Issues and Solutions Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action Music INTRO/Outro: T. Wild Mantor Music BMI The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk. Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join us for a stirring conversation with Justin Peck, a professional race car driver who has turned his personal challenges with class one bipolar disorder into a powerful advocacy for mental health. Justin shares his early experiences of feeling different and the painful reality of bullying and lack of support, which many listeners may find relatable. His candid reflections offer insights into the evolving understanding within his own family and draw important parallels with the autistic community, shedding light on the broader need for awareness and acceptance. Racing became more than just a sport for Justin; it transformed into a lifeline. He recounts a harrowing experience at 26, when a moment of despair turned into a revelation that led to a crucial diagnosis and a renewed purpose. Listeners will find inspiration in Justin's incredible resilience as he navigated economic challenges in the construction industry to pursue his passion for racing. Despite enduring significant physical pain, Justin's journey underscores the healing power of pursuing one's passion and finding a community that offers belonging and support. As the founder of the National Mental Health Alliance, Justin is on a mission to educate and support those facing mental health challenges, particularly veterans and young men. Our discussion emphasizes the value of authentic conversations and the impact they can have on lives. Justin's story is one of hope, resilience, and the power of purpose, and we invite listeners to engage with the content that not only educates but genuinely inspires change. https://tonymantor.com https://Facebook.com/tonymantor https://instagram.com/tonymantor https://twitter.com/tonymantor https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild Why Not Me music published by Mantor Music (BMI) The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk. Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From the depths of silence to a voice that echoes across the globe, Temple Grandin's life is a testament to the uncharted brilliance of the autistic mind. Our conversation peels back the curtain on Temple's journey, revealing the significance of nurturing communication in non-verbal children and the power of supportive educational systems. Temple's raw recount of adolescence showcases her unyielding resilience amidst the sting of high school bullying, yet she emerged with a steadfast determination that would shape her into the celebrated thought leader and animal behaviorist she is today. Imagine a world where the workplace thrives on the diverse talents of the autistic community. Temple Grandin guides us through this transformative vision, emphasizing the critical need for practical skills training and workplace accommodations, like written instructions, to tap into the rich pool of visual, pattern, and word thinkers on the spectrum. Her insights are a beacon for integrating hands-on classes in education, illuminating the path for those with autism to shine in industries that yearn for their unique skills—from technology to specialized retail. Temple's conversation culminates in a powerful call to action, urging society to embrace and integrate the 'different operating systems' of autistic individuals. As we dissect the importance of life skills education and the value autistic individuals bring to fields as varied as aviation and pharmaceuticals, it becomes clear that autism is not a hindrance but a lens through which new solutions emerge. Temple's vision extends beyond mere acceptance, advocating for a future where appreciation for the rich variety of human minds fosters a more inclusive and thriving society. Join us on this inspiring journey, as we uncover the untapped potential that lies in recognizing and valuing neurodiversity. https://tonymantor.com https://Facebook.com/tonymantor https://instagram.com/tonymantor https://twitter.com/tonymantor https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild Mantor Music (BMI) The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk. Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Judge Milton Mack shares his mission to reform the mental health system by moving from crisis intervention to early treatment and prevention. His groundbreaking work in Michigan demonstrates how changing laws and procedures can dramatically improve outcomes while reducing costs. • Moving from an inpatient model to an outpatient world where over 90% of mental health care now occurs • Changing intervention standards to help people before they reach crisis, not waiting for the "magic moment" of danger • Implementing mediation for mental health cases to increase engagement and compliance • Creating a system that reduces trauma by avoiding unnecessary hospitalization and incarceration • Demonstrating success through Genesee County's 70% reduction in hospitalization and 90% treatment compliance • Building coordinated stakeholder systems where law enforcement, hospitals, courts and treatment providers work together • Focusing on upstream solutions to prevent people from entering the criminal justice system • Recognizing that early intervention in mental health is as important as early intervention for cancer We need to intervene early—we wouldn't wait to treat someone with cancer when they're stage four, and we do just as much damage by waiting to treat mental illness. Assisted outpatient treatment is the most humane option, far better than hospitalization, jail, or homelessness. This approach benefits everyone. https://tonymantor.com https://Facebook.com/tonymantor https://instagram.com/tonymantor https://twitter.com/tonymantor https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild Why Not Me  music published by Mantor Music (BMI) The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk. Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Overcoming Insurance Obstacles for Mental Health Care with 'Cover My Mental Health' In this episode, the founder of the nonprofit 'Cover My Mental Health' discusses their mission to help patients, families, and clinicians navigate and overcome insurance obstacles to access mental health care. The organization provides resources and encouragement, highlighting the importance of not taking no for an answer from insurance companies. The founder shares personal experiences that inspired the creation of the nonprofit, explains the development and effectiveness of resources such as template medical necessity letters, and offers practical steps like filing formal complaints and seeking help from elected officials. The emphasis is on empowering individuals and clinicians with common-sense tools to ensure fair treatment from insurance providers. Introduction and Purpose Founding of Cover My Mental Health Personal Story and Advocacy Resources and Tools for Overcoming Insurance Obstacles Medical Necessity Letters Challenges with Insurance Networks Authorization Forms and Team Support Filing Formal Complaints Getting Help from Elected Officials Encouragement and Final Thoughts INTRO/OUTRO Music: T. Wild Mantor Music BMI The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk. Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.