We Thrive Together

About We Thrive Together

We Thrive Together is a podcast powered by United Way of Central Missouri and hosted by Josh Varner. Through conversations with behavioral health professionals, educators, advocates, and individuals with lived experience, we explore behavioral health, mental wellness, resilience, suicide prevention, recovery, and the power of human connection. Our goal is to connect people with trusted resources, education, and stories that inspire hope, strengthen relationships, and build healthier communities.

Publisher

United Way of Central Missouri

Category

health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

21 Aug 2026

Latest episode

23 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

10 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   23 Oct 2026

   We Have to Talk About It

   Episode 10: We Have to Talk About It In the Season One finale of We Thrive Together, host Josh Varner sits down with Valerie Huhn, Director of the Missouri Department of Mental Health and United Way of Central Missouri Board Member, to talk about depression, anxiety, and the state of mental health in Missouri. Together, they explore the challenges facing individuals and families, the importance of access to mental health resources, and how we can continue moving forward as a state. As Season One comes to a close, this conversation serves as an important reminder that creating change starts with being willing to talk about it. MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES Looking for support for yourself or someone you care about? Explore United Way of Central Missouri's Mental Health Resource Hub: https://unitedwaycemo.org/mentalhealth (https://unitedwaycemo.org/mentalhealth) NEED HELP RIGHT AWAY? If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.

2. 

   16 Oct 2026

   Finding Your Infinite, Unchangeable Value

   Episode 9: Finding Your Infinite, Unchangeable Value In this episode of We Thrive Together, host Josh Varner sits down with Dr. Jamie Smith, Outpatient Lead Therapist at SSM Health, to talk about trauma, healing, and recognizing the value we hold within ourselves and see in others. Together, they explore how our experiences can shape the way we see ourselves, the journey toward healing, and the importance of recognizing that our worth is not defined by what we've been through. MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES Looking for support for yourself or someone you care about? Explore United Way of Central Missouri's Mental Health Resource Hub: https://unitedwaycemo.org/mentalhealth (https://unitedwaycemo.org/mentalhealth) NEED HELP RIGHT AWAY? If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.

3. 

   9 Oct 2026

   Regulate Before You Educate

   Episode 8: Regulate Before You Educate In this episode of We Thrive Together, host Josh Varner sits down with Dr. Stephanie Martensen, Senior Director of School-Based Therapy Services at Compass Health Network, to talk about the importance of emotional regulation and supporting children's mental health in schools. Together, they explore the role of school-based therapy, the connection between emotional well-being and learning, and how creating safe, supportive environments can help children grow, learn, and thrive. MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES Looking for support for yourself or someone you care about? Explore United Way of Central Missouri's Mental Health Resource Hub: https://unitedwaycemo.org/mentalhealth (https://unitedwaycemo.org/mentalhealth) NEED HELP RIGHT AWAY? If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.

4. 

   2 Oct 2026

   Coaching Beyond the Game

   In this episode of We Thrive Together, host Josh Varner sits down with Tim Rulo, coach at Russellville High School, to talk about the impact of transformational coaching and the relationships built along the way. Together, they explore how coaches can help young people grow not only as athletes, but as individuals, building confidence, character, and lifelong lessons they can carry with them long after the game is over. MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES Looking for support for yourself or someone you care about? Explore United Way of Central Missouri's Mental Health Resource Hub: https://unitedwaycemo.org/mentalhealth (https://unitedwaycemo.org/mentalhealth) NEED HELP RIGHT AWAY? If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.

5. 

   25 Sept 2026

   A Place to Belong

   In this episode of We Thrive Together, host Josh Varner sits down with Dr. Beth Houf, Principal of Capital City High School, to talk about creating spaces where young people feel loved, safe, and seen. Together, they explore the importance of connection, belonging, and making sure every young person knows they matter. MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES Looking for support for yourself or someone you care about? Explore United Way of Central Missouri's Mental Health Resource Hub: https://unitedwaycemo.org/mentalhealth (https://unitedwaycemo.org/mentalhealth) NEED HELP RIGHT AWAY? If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.

6. 

   18 Sept 2026

   Stay: Grief, Grace, & Finding a Way Forward

   CONTENT WARNING: This episode includes an open and personal conversation about suicide, suicide loss, grief, trauma, and the impact of loss on children and families. Please take care of yourself while listening. If these topics feel difficult or overwhelming, it is okay to pause or step away. In this episode of We Thrive Together, host Josh Varner sits down with Jill Wood and Holly Nunn for a deeply personal conversation about love, loss, grief, and finding a way forward. CONTENT WARNING This episode includes an open and personal conversation about suicide, suicide loss, grief, trauma, and the impact of loss on children and families. Please take care of yourself while listening. If these topics feel difficult or overwhelming, it is okay to pause or step away. In this episode of We Thrive Together, host Josh Varner sits down with Jill Wood and Holly Nunn for a deeply personal conversation about love, loss, grief, and finding a way forward. Jill shares the story of her husband, Chris, and opens up about what life has looked like for her and her family following his loss. Together, they talk about navigating grief, supporting children through loss, healing, and how we can better show up for someone experiencing unimaginable grief. ABOUT CAPPY CLASSIC Cappy Classic was founded in response to the profound loss suicide has brought to the Jefferson City community. Its mission is to bring awareness to the mental health crisis, support those navigating loss, and encourage open conversations that can help prevent future tragedies. Funds raised provide educational scholarships and essential resources for individuals affected by suicide. Learn more about Cappy Classic: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586985100795 (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586985100795) MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES Looking for support for yourself or someone you care about? Explore United Way of Central Missouri's Mental Health Resource Hub: https://unitedwaycemo.org/mentalhealth (https://unitedwaycemo.org/mentalhealth) NEED HELP RIGHT AWAY? If you or someone you know is struggling or experiencing a mental health or suicide-related crisis, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911. DISCLAIMER This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical, mental health, psychological, legal, or other professional advice. Guest experiences and perspectives are their own. Personal stories are shared with permission, and identifying details may be changed when appropriate to protect privacy and confidentiality. Jill shares the story of her husband, Chris, and opens up about what life has looked like for her and her family following his loss. Together, they talk about navigating grief, supporting children through loss, healing, and how we can better show up for someone experiencing unimaginable grief. ABOUT CAPPY CLASSIC Cappy Classic was founded in response to the profound loss suicide has brought to the Jefferson City community. Its mission is to bring awareness to the mental health crisis, support those navigating loss, and encourage open conversations that can help prevent future tragedies. Funds raised provide educational scholarships and essential resources for individuals affected by suicide. Learn more about Cappy Classic:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586985100795 MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES Looking for support for yourself or someone you care about? Explore United Way of Central Missouri's Mental Health Resource Hub:https://unitedwaycemo.org/mentalhealth NEED HELP RIGHT AWAY? If you or someone you know is struggling or experiencing a mental health or suicide-related crisis, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.If someone is in immediate danger, call 911. DISCLAIMER This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical, mental health, psychological, legal, or other professional advice.

7. 

   11 Sept 2026

   N-SPIRING Connection, Community, & Hope

   Episode 4: N-SPIRING Connection, Community, & Hope In this episode of We Thrive Together, host Josh Varner sits down with educator Nate Brinkley to talk about helping young people open up, healing from trauma, and the power of connection. They discuss what it means to help children feel seen, heard, and supported, and how meaningful relationships can build confidence, resilience, and hope. ABOUT N-SPIRE YOUTH FOUNDATION INC. Nate is the founder of N-SPIRE Youth Foundation Inc., a nonprofit that empowers young people through mentorship, community engagement, leadership, and service. Learn more about N-SPIRE Youth Foundation Inc.: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1DddtDrkWi/ (https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1DddtDrkWi/) MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES Looking for support for yourself or someone you care about? Explore United Way of Central Missouri's Mental Health Resource Hub: https://unitedwaycemo.org/mentalhealth (https://unitedwaycemo.org/mentalhealth) NEED HELP RIGHT AWAY? If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.

8. 

   4 Sept 2026

   Screen Time & the Adolescent Mind

   In this episode of We Thrive Together, host Josh Varner sits down with Dr. Laurel Kramer, a retired psychologist, to explore technology, screen time, and online safety through the lens of adolescent well-being. They discuss how technology can impact young people, the challenges parents and caregivers are navigating in an increasingly connected world, and practical ways to encourage healthier habits and safer online experiences. Dr. Kramer also shares tips and insights to help adults better understand, guide, and support the young people in their lives. MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES Looking for support for yourself or someone you care about? Explore United Way of Central Missouri's Mental Health Resource Hub: https://unitedwaycemo.org/mentalhealth (https://unitedwaycemo.org/mentalhealth) NEED HELP RIGHT AWAY? If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.

9. 

   28 Aug 2026

   Promoting De-escalation, Diversion, & Safety

   In this episode of We Thrive Together, host Josh Varner sits down with Officer Martika Hitt of the Jefferson City Police Department and CIT Officer of the Year. They discuss crisis intervention, de-escalation, meeting people where they are, and the importance of connecting people with the support they need. Officer Hitt also shares insight from her work and the role compassion, understanding, and connection can play in creating safer outcomes for individuals and our community. MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES Looking for support for yourself or someone you care about? Explore United Way of Central Missouri's Mental Health Resource Hub: https://unitedwaycemo.org/mentalhealth (https://unitedwaycemo.org/mentalhealth) NEED HELP RIGHT AWAY? If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.

10. 

    21 Aug 2026

    Episode 1: Why We Thrive Together

    Welcome to the first episode of We Thrive Together, a podcast powered by United Way of Central Missouri and hosted by Josh Varner. In this episode, Josh sits down with Ryan Freeman to talk about why We Thrive Together was created, what listeners can expect, and how education, resources, and connection can help create meaningful change in our community. MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES Looking for support for yourself or someone you care about? Explore United Way of Central Missouri's Mental Health Resource Hub: https://unitedwaycemo.org/mentalhealth (https://unitedwaycemo.org/mentalhealth) NEED HELP RIGHT AWAY? If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.