Welcome to Dancing With Depression. This is a podcast dedicated to opening up the conversation about mental health, focusing specifically on depression. I was diagnosed with depression in 2015.
I've realized how crucial it is to talk openly about this topic, breaking its stigma. Like taboo subjects such as income, politics, or religion, depression should not be off-limits.
Through sharing my journey, from my upbringing to my personal experiences and moments of vulnerability, I aim to convey that it's okay to feel this way. We are not alone, and most importantly, we did nothing wrong. Depression doesn't confine itself to a specific upbringing, socio-economic status, or background. I hope my stories encourage others to share their own experiences, highlighting how depression affects not just individuals but their loved ones as well.
Every day with depression is different for me. Some days, it's a mild waltz; other days, it can start with a tap dance, shift into a Salsa, and by noon, I’m a Ballet dancer – leaping, bending, lifting (the weight of my depression), and balancing myself on the tips of my toes all while spinning rapidly.
I invite you to join me as we navigate the complex dance with depression together, all while striving to Take The Lead!
One of My Biggest Supporters Has Never Listened to the Dancing With Depression Podcast - What Support Really Means
Key Topics:
Personal story about a friend who has never listened to the podcast but has been a major supporter in other ways
The difference between support and support expectations
How support can take many forms: emotional, financial, informational, peer support
The importance of clear communication about what support is needed
The idea that support isn't universal; different situations require different kinds of help
The misconception that one person can provide all kinds of support
The value of building a support system with diverse people fulfilling different roles
Recognizing non-participative support, such as silent presence or quiet acts of love
What support isn't: mind reading, fixing, controlling, or sacrificing your own well-being
Reflection on supporting others through challenging seasons and preventing caregiver fatigue
Practical questions to assess support needs and recognition in your relationships
The significance of community and shared responsibility in support networks
Remember, support is most powerful when it recognizes the diverse ways we all experience and give it. Building a community of varied support fosters resilience and authenticity in our relationships.
Episode Disclaimer
This episode of Dancing With Depression includes conversations about mental health that may be sensitive for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised. The content shared reflects personal experiences and perspectives and is not a substitute for professional mental health care. If you are in crisis or need immediate support, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. For non-emergency support and resources, contact the NAMI HelpLine at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264).
17 Jul 2026
The Power of Saying It Out Loud with Dr. Oren Matteson
What does it really mean to be vulnerable? In this episode, Adam sits down with licensed therapist Dr. Oren Matteson to explore why saying what matters can be one of the most powerful steps toward healing. Together, they discuss the fears that keep us silent, how emotional honesty strengthens relationships, why vulnerability isn't about getting the perfect response, and how creating safe environments allows people to open up when they're ready. It's a thoughtful conversation that reminds us that healing often begins the moment we stop carrying everything alone.
What You'll Hear in This Episode
- What vulnerability really is—and why it looks different for everyone
- Why the things we tell ourselves in silence often become the heaviest burdens we carry
- The emotional and physical relief that can come from simply saying something out loud
- What happens when vulnerability isn't immediately met with understanding
- Why relationships grow stronger through honesty—not perfection
- The importance of earning the right to hear someone's story
- How creating psychological safety encourages openness
- Why healing is less about fixing people and more about building authentic connections
- The evolving conversation around men's mental health and emotional intelligence
- How healthier fathers can create healthier families for generations to come
Resources Mentioned
Millennium Counseling Center (https://millenniumhope.com/)
Saying What Matters podcast (https://open.spotify.com/show/6ul34OFwaRZZ6YLib93fEI?si=04575430122f4f39)
Millennium Counseling Podcast (https://open.spotify.com/show/6ul34OFwaRZZ6YLib93fEI?si=1cb8b45f08a94135)
Episode Disclaimer
This episode of Dancing With Depression includes conversations about mental health that may be sensitive for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised. The content shared reflects personal experiences and perspectives and is not a substitute for professional mental health care. If you are in crisis or need immediate support, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. For non-emergency support and resources, contact the NAMI HelpLine at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264).
26 Jun 2026
How Sid Found H.O.P.E. — Healing. Openness. Progress. Empowerment.
In this episode of Dancing with Depression, Sid shares her profound journey of healing from trauma and mental health struggles, revealing that growth and hope are ongoing processes. We explore the importance of self-awareness, boundaries, and embracing the journey, no matter how challenging.
KEY TOPICS:
The metaphor of healing as a journey, not a destination
The role of curiosity, grace, and openness in growth
How to extend grace to oneself during difficult times
Early signs of mental health struggles and recognizing them
The unexpected value Sid found from professional help and EMDR therapy
The power of reprogramming harmful thoughts and giving self-grace
Boundaries as a vital tool for healing and self-care
The significance of movement, nature, and grounding activities
The challenge of implementation versus knowledge
The value of intentional self-awareness and continuous learning
RESOURCES:
The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz (https://www.amazon.com/Four-Agreements-Practical-Personal-Freedom/dp/1878424319)
EMDR Therapy Information (https://emdria.org/)
Morgan Harper Nichols' Poetry (https://morganharpernichols.com/)
Grounding and Movement for Mental Health (https://psychcentral.com/health/grounding-techniques-for-anxiety)
CLOSING:
Remember, healing is nonlinear and ongoing. Embrace your journey, set boundaries, seek support, and gift yourself grace along the way. This community is here to support you every step. Until next time, keep moving forward.
Episode Disclaimer
This episode of Dancing With Depression includes conversations about mental health that may be sensitive for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised. The content shared reflects personal experiences and perspectives and is not a substitute for professional mental health care. If you are in crisis or need immediate support, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. For non-emergency support and resources, contact the NAMI HelpLine at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264).
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
55,800
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
4 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
11 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 26 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
24
Social presence
0
YouTube
72
Engagement
0
Contact Dancing With Depression
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of Dancing With Depression?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
