MasterMined: A Behavioral & Mental Health Podcast
MasterMined isn’t just about learning — it’s about digging deep to uncover what truly works in the business of behavioral health. This podcast will explore the innovative strategies, operational frameworks, and leadership lessons driving success in the mental health industry. From scaling private practices to managing multi-location organizations, each episode delivers clear, candid, and compelling conversations to help business owners, executives, and industry leaders build, optimize, and scale their behavioral health organizations—without losing sight of their mission.
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Ep. 35 Detecting the Invisible in Behavioral Health with Megan Reinhardt of RAE Health
01/13/2026
Ep. 35 Detecting the Invisible in Behavioral Health with Megan Reinhardt of RAE Health
In this episode of MasterMined, the hosts sit down with Megan Reinhardt, Co-Founder and CEO of RAE Health, to explore how wearable technology and digital biomarkers are reshaping behavioral health treatment. Megan shares her journey into the substance use disorder space, why RAE Health prioritized rigorous research over rapid adoption, and how real-time physiological data can help clinicians and patients identify stress and cravings before they escalate. This conversation unpacks the future of measurement-based care, clinician adoption, and what it truly means to build people-first technology in behavioral health. Key Moments 00:32 – Megan’s path into behavioral health and substance use disorder 03:45 – What RAE Health stands for: Realize, Analyze, Engage 05:02 – Eight years of NIH-funded research and peer-reviewed outcomes 06:32 – Detecting stress versus cravings using wearable data 09:42 – Barriers to adoption and reimbursement in behavioral health tech 13:56 – Surprising insights on user adoption across age groups 18:35 – How real-time awareness changes relapse prevention 21:21 – Understanding physiological data before conscious awareness 26:42 – Small behavior changes that create lasting impact 39:33 – Why focusing on the problem—not the money—matters most Learn More & Connect Show Notes + Resources: Connect with Megan Reinhardt: | Connect with Mark Scrivner: | Connect with Jeff Skillen: | Connect with Lee Pepper: | Our Sponsor - Snapshot:
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Ep. 34 Reputation Management in Behavioral Health with Mark, Lee, & Jeff
01/06/2026
Ep. 34 Reputation Management in Behavioral Health with Mark, Lee, & Jeff
In this episode of MasterMined, hosts Mark Scrivner, Jeff Skillen, and Lee Pepper unpack the realities of reputation management in behavioral health. From navigating negative reviews and activating a “posse of positivity” to preparing for media scrutiny and five-alarm PR crises, the conversation offers practical frameworks leaders can implement before reputational issues escalate. The hosts emphasize proactive planning, human-centered communication, and disciplined response strategies that protect trust, culture, and long-term brand equity. Key Moments 01:22 — Why reputation hits harder in behavioral health 03:08 — The danger of emotional responses to negative reviews 05:32 — Researching complaints to find the grain of truth 07:05 — Curiosity vs. blame as a leadership mindset 11:14 — Turning a one-star review into a five-star outcome 14:16 — Activating a “posse of positivity” to rebalance ratings 20:12 — Why “no comment” is never the right answer 21:41 — Building a crisis response team before you need it 39:14 — Why human-to-human conversation still matters most Learn More & Connect Show Notes + Resources: Connect with Mark Scrivner: | Connect with Jeff Skillen: | Connect with Lee Pepper: | Our Sponsor - Snapshot:
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Ep. 33 The State of Psychology, Today with John Thomas
12/30/2025
Ep. 33 The State of Psychology, Today with John Thomas
In this episode of MasterMined, hosts Jeff Skillen, and Lee Pepper sit down with John Thomas, President and Publisher of Psychology Today, to unpack how one of the most iconic brands in mental health has stayed relevant for nearly six decades. John shares how editorial integrity, science-based content, and an uncompromising stance on trust have fueled the platform’s evolution across print, digital media, and the world’s largest therapist directory. From AI and content authority to directory ethics and future pivots, this conversation offers timeless lessons for behavioral health leaders navigating rapid change. Key Moments: 01:51 – Introducing John Thomas and the legacy of Psychology Today 03:50 – Why most legacy media failed—and why Psychology Today didn’t 05:42 – The three-pronged business model: magazine, website, and directory 08:06 – Playing offense and defense in a volatile media landscape 12:07 – Why journalistic-quality content still matters 12:54 – The science-first philosophy behind Psychology Today 16:48 – How video transformed therapist-patient matching 19:35 – AI, search, and protecting content authority 26:39 – Why the therapy directory forbids paid placement 37:13 – What’s next: custom media, events, and future pivots Learn More & Connect Show Notes + Resources: Connect with John Thomas: Connect with Jeff Skillen: | Connect with Lee Pepper: | Our Sponsor - Snapshot:
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Ep. 32 Treating the Brain, Fighting the Stigma with Dr. Ali Farooqui
12/23/2025
Ep. 32 Treating the Brain, Fighting the Stigma with Dr. Ali Farooqui
In this episode of MasterMined, hosts Mark Scrivner, Jeff Skillen, and Lee Pepper sit down with Dr. Ali Farooqui to explore what’s broken in today’s mental health system—and how it can be fixed. From destigmatizing psychiatric diagnoses to building a quality-first clinical model, Dr. Farooqui shares how Healthy Minds Tennessee is redefining access, outcomes, and patient experience. The conversation spans interventional psychiatry, leadership in clinical teams, and why “good enough” simply isn’t good enough in mental health care. Key Moments 00:00 – Why mental health disorders are brain disorders, not personal failings 02:31 – Dr. Farooqui’s journey from neurosurgery to psychiatry and healthcare leadership 04:55 – Building Healthy Minds: aligning values, care delivery, and business strategy 08:22 – Removing stigma by focusing on health instead of pathology 12:10 – Drawing the line between normal emotions and diagnosable disorders 18:18 – Why “good enough” is not good enough in psychiatric care 22:50 – Designing clinics that respect patients’ time and dignity 30:05 – Ketamine, TMS, and the future of interventional psychiatry 34:09 – When “buzzy” treatments lead to real clinical breakthroughs Learn More & Connect Show Notes + Resources: Connect with Dr. Ali Farooqui: | Connect with Mark Scrivner: | Connect with Jeff Skillen: | Connect with Lee Pepper: | Our Sponsor - Snapshot:
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Ep. 31 How to Outsmart the Holiday Slump with Mark, Lee, & Jeff
12/16/2025
Ep. 31 How to Outsmart the Holiday Slump with Mark, Lee, & Jeff
In this episode of MasterMined, our hosts Mark Scrivner, Jeff Skillen, and Lee Pepper break down one of the industry's most persistent—and least discussed—challenges: the holiday slump. They unpack why programs are often caught off guard, how seasonality trends repeat every year, and what proactive leaders can do to stabilize census, strengthen admissions performance, and support teams during a naturally stressful season. From strategic marketing allocation to admissions talk tracks, business development adjustments, and operational readiness, this episode delivers a practical, multidimensional plan to mitigate dips and keep momentum strong through year-end. Key Moments 01:16 Why leaders treat the holiday slump like a surprise—even though it happens every year 02:34 Predictable seasonal cycles and why programs must plan early 04:37 Rethinking marketing allocation: avoid the instinct to “cut when it’s tight” 05:27 “Lean in when it feels tight”: the Warren Buffett analogy for marketing strategy 06:06 How business development teams can shift tactics when referrers are on vacation 08:42 Why admissions talk tracks must adapt for holiday objections 10:41 Showcasing holiday programming to reduce family hesitation about sending loved ones to treatment 16:08 The two must-haves for leaders: documentation and emotional steadiness during census dips Learn More & Connect Show Notes + Resources: Connect with Mark Scrivner: | Connect with Jeff Skillen: | Connect with Lee Pepper: | Our Sponsor - Snapshot:
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Ep. 30 AI & The Future of Conferences with Doug Edwards
12/09/2025
Ep. 30 AI & The Future of Conferences with Doug Edwards
In this episode of MasterMined, Doug Edwards—Senior Vice President at HMP Global—pulls back the curtain on what truly makes a behavioral health conference succeed. From long-range planning to the advisory board process, from AI-driven disruption to timeless in-person connection, Doug shares practical, candid insight for leaders navigating a rapidly evolving landscape. Whether you sponsor, speak, or attend, his guidance helps you elevate your presence, sharpen your strategy, and maximize the value of every conference experience. Key Moments 00:00 – What really grabs attention on a conference floor 00:19 – Introducing Doug Edwards and his work shaping premier behavioral health events 01:30 – Doug’s career path from journalism to leading major healthcare conferences 05:51 – How COVID reshaped conferences and revived the power of in-person connection 08:10 – Why conference attendance is rising again—and what attendees are valuing most 10:56 – Why Nashville became home to major national summits 12:43 – The hidden work behind building an agenda and securing top-tier speakers 14:46 – Hot-topic trends shaping agendas: GLP-1s, AI, and evidence-based sessions 17:49 – How fast AI changed the conference landscape and sparked a new summit Learn More & Connect Show Notes + Resources: Connect with Doug Edwards: | Connect with Mark Scrivner: | Connect with Jeff Skillen: | Connect with Lee Pepper: | Our Sponsor - Snapshot:
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Ep. 29 The Truth About Intervention with Ken Seeley and Eric McLaughlin
12/02/2025
Ep. 29 The Truth About Intervention with Ken Seeley and Eric McLaughlin
Intervention pioneers Ken Seeley and Eric McLaughlin join MasterMined to discuss the evolution of intervention, the rise of family-system models, the legacy of A&E’s Intervention, and the ethics and challenges facing today’s behavioral health landscape. With decades of experience, they break down myths, offer practical guidance for families, and share a powerful framework for creating real change—before addiction reaches its lowest point. Key Moments • 00:00 – How Intervention reshaped national awareness • 01:10 – Introducing Ken Seeley and Eric McLaughlin • 02:14 – Eric’s path from entertainment to intervention • 05:46 – Why clinical education transformed their work • 07:58 – Ken’s early years and founding Intervention 911 • 10:09 – How media criticism shifted into industry demand • 13:33 – The rise of intervention as a scalable service • 17:17 – The biggest myth families believe about interventions • 28:08 – The HELPS model: why interventions work • 35:28 – The future of intervention in a social-media world Learn More & Connect Show Notes + Resources: Connect with Ken Seeley: | Connect with Eric McLaughlin: | Connect with Mark Scrivner: | Connect with Jeff Skillen: | Connect with Lee Pepper: | Our Sponsor - Snapshot:
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Ep. 28 From Recovery To Leadership With Steve Lee
11/24/2025
Ep. 28 From Recovery To Leadership With Steve Lee
In this episode, Steve Lee—Sr. Director of Strategic Relationships at Cumberland Heights—joins Mark, Jeff, and Lee for an honest, wisdom-filled conversation about recovery, transformational leadership, ethical consistency, and the true work of relationship building in behavioral health. With more than three decades of personal sobriety and a long career spanning entrepreneurship, sales, and strategic partnerships, Steve shares highly actionable insights for leaders navigating pressure, alignment, and complex referral networks. His story is deeply human, grounded in humility, and anchored in principles that stand firm no matter the season. Key Moments: 00:00 – Sharing hard truths and earning trust 01:44 – Introducing Steve Lee and his decades of experience 02:33 – Growing up, early career, and entering the family business 05:10 – Career reinvention and finding new purpose at 58 08:03 – Recovery, early challenges, and showing up differently 12:21 – Transactional vs. transformational influence 17:07 – Values, alignment, and the “what are you great at?” exercise 20:12 – Shifting careers and overcoming assumptions about the field 23:30 – BD alignment, ethics, and long-game decision-making 29:49 – Pressure, quotas, and maintaining integrity under stress 35:20 – Pitfalls of leading with the recovery story 37:34 – Professionalism and the revolving door of BD roles 44:31 – Cumberland Heights’ culture of stability and continual growth 47:04 – Strategic partnerships and national representation 49:15 – Future challenges and staying focused on “your job” Learn More & Connect Show Notes + Resources: Connect with Steve Lee: Connect with Mark Scrivner: | Connect with Jeff Skillen: | Connect with Lee Pepper: | Our Sponsor - Snapshot:
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Ep. 27 Finding Top Talent To Protect the Future with Jeri Davis
11/18/2025
Ep. 27 Finding Top Talent To Protect the Future with Jeri Davis
In this candid and deeply insightful conversation, Jeri Davis—one of the most respected executive recruiters and strategists in behavioral health—joins MasterMined to unpack the current and future state of the industry. With more than three decades influencing marketing infrastructure, leadership development, and executive recruitment, Jeri offers a rare vantage point into what’s working, what’s not, and where leaders must pay attention now. From the widening talent gap to AI’s role in recruitment to the financial pressures reshaping quality of care, this episode gives behavioral health leaders a grounded, honest look at the road ahead—and the practical steps to strengthen teams, culture, and outcomes. Key Moments: 00:00 — Jeri’s early journey into behavioral health and applied psychology 02:03 — How she became a nationally sought-after behavioral health recruiter 05:31 — Why the talent pool looks “shallow”—and what leaders often misunderstand 07:17 — The cultural risks of hiring leaders without behavioral health experience 10:57 — How expectations between CEOs and investors break down 14:18 — The dangers of blind spots in PE-backed organizations 21:57 — Executive search trends and why recruitment is shifting fast 23:42 — The real factors that determine whether new programs succeed 33:21 — Jeri’s “state of the industry” point of view 39:16 — How workforce, reimbursement, and regulation pressures collide Learn More & Connect Show Notes + Resources: Connect with Jeri Davis: | Connect with Mark Scrivner: | Connect with Jeff Skillen: | Connect with Lee Pepper: | Our Sponsor - Snapshot:
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Ep. 26 Making Compliance Valuable, Empowering Care with Mike Lifshotz
11/11/2025
Ep. 26 Making Compliance Valuable, Empowering Care with Mike Lifshotz
In this episode of MasterMined, Mark, Lee, and Jeff sit down with Mike Lifshotz, Founder of Hatch Compliance and now VP of Business Development at Kipu Compliance, to explore how compliance systems can empower—not burden—behavioral health providers. Mike shares the origin story behind Hatch, its evolution into Kipu, and how automation, data, and empathy can reshape staff workflows, reduce risk, and improve client outcomes. He also offers practical lessons for founders and leaders balancing innovation with integrity. Timestamped Highlights: 00:00 – Mike’s founder mindset: ask for advice, not money 00:48 – From Hatch to Kipu Compliance: a story built from need, not profit 03:43 – The early days: building a compliance system from the ground up 10:42 – Pricing with purpose—teaching value over cost 13:24 – Lessons from mentors and the human side of compliance 15:25 – Turning surveyors into allies, not adversaries 20:42 – How Kipu automates regulatory updates across locations 23:15 – The power of automated learning management in reducing burnout 28:56 – Turning compliance into a revenue opportunity 36:28 – Why behavioral health is a calling, not a career 38:04 – Helping the people who help the people 41:11 – Founder advice: finding the right team and trusted advisors 46:22 – Mike’s open invitation to connect and collaborate Learn More & Connect Show Notes + Resources: Connect with Mike Lifshotz: | Connect with Mark Scrivner: | Connect with Jeff Skillen: | Connect with Lee Pepper: | Our Sponsor - Snapshot: 1 Million Cups:
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Ep. 25 Educating the Modern Healthcare Leader With Dr. Allison Duke & Dr. Bart Liddle
11/04/2025
Ep. 25 Educating the Modern Healthcare Leader With Dr. Allison Duke & Dr. Bart Liddle
In this episode of MasterMined, hosts Mark Scrivner and Lee Pepper sit down with Lipscomb University leaders Dr. Allison Duke and Dr. Bart Liddle to explore how business education and leadership development are evolving to meet the needs of the healthcare industry. They share insights on integrating creativity, strategy, and human-centered leadership into business education, as well as how AI is transforming both the classroom and the healthcare space. Timestamped Highlights: 00:36 – Welcome and guest introductions 02:05 – Why Duke and Liddle chose academia after corporate careers 04:03 – Inside Lipscomb’s MBA and MHA programs designed by practitioners 07:09 – Nashville as the “Silicon Valley of Healthcare” 08:08 – Training early-career professionals for leadership in healthcare 13:01 – Equipping clinicians for management roles 16:09 – The five virtues of leadership and the role of creativity 17:23 – Teaching managers to coach and motivate employees 34:25 – Lipscomb’s campus-wide embrace of AI tools 35:42 – Why learning AI is as essential as learning Excel 39:00 – How AI can make healthcare more human 42:13 – The lifelong value of graduate education and continuous learning Learn More & Connect Show Notes + Resources: Connect with Dr. Allison Duke: | Connect with Dr. Bart Liddle: | Connect with Mark Scrivner: | Connect with Lee Pepper: | Our Sponsor - Snapshot:
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Ep. 24 Saying Yes to Leadership and Mission with Kelly Scaggs
10/28/2025
Ep. 24 Saying Yes to Leadership and Mission with Kelly Scaggs
When clinical insight meets visionary leadership, transformation happens. In this episode, Fellowship Hall CEO Kelly Scaggs joins Mark, Jeff, and Lee to discuss leading with empathy, empowering women in behavioral health, and how saying “yes” to the opportunities that scare you can open unexpected doors. From navigating nonprofit boards to embracing AI responsibly, Kelly shares practical wisdom for leaders who want to shape the future of addiction treatment with heart, humility, and purpose. Timestamped Highlights: 00:01 — Kelly reflects on her journey from family counselor to Fellowship Hall’s first female CEO. 02:40 — Bridging clinical empathy with executive leadership. 05:05 — Servant leadership and leading by example—no job too small. 07:00 — Managing diverse nonprofit boards with insight and grace. 13:00 — Mission alignment as a compass for every decision. 16:00 — The power of saying “yes” to growth and courage in leadership. 18:30 — Inspiring the next generation of women in behavioral health. 24:50 — Practicing gratitude and authentic appreciation as leadership tools. 31:00 — The “miracle of recovery” and finding daily motivation in client transformation. 35:45 — Navigating payer challenges and the changing treatment landscape. 36:00 — Balancing AI innovation with ethical care. 38:00 — Building hope and collaboration across the addiction treatment field. 49:50 — Fellowship Hall’s legacy, mission, and what’s next for integrated care. Learn More & Connect Show Notes + Resources: Connect with Kelly Scaggs: | Connect with Mark Scrivner: | Connect with Jeff Skillen: | Connect with Lee Pepper: | Our Sponsor - Snapshot:
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Ep. 23 Finding Healing Through Songwriting and Storytelling with Lindsay Lawler
10/21/2025
Ep. 23 Finding Healing Through Songwriting and Storytelling with Lindsay Lawler
Country artist and radio host Lindsay Lawler joins MasterMined to talk about music as medicine, storytelling as therapy, and how her platform We Should Write helps people process their pain through writing. From her start performing on the Sunset Strip to hosting Road Gang Radio for America’s long-haul drivers, Lindsay’s journey shows how creativity, vulnerability, and connection can change lives. She shares how songwriting has been a bridge between performance and purpose—helping others heal, one lyric at a time. Key Moments: 00:01 – Meet Lindsay Lawler, singer-songwriter and radio host of Road Gang Radio and We Should Write 04:12 – How childhood emotions shaped her love for music and healing through performance 11:25 – The origin of Road Gang Radio and connection with the trucking community 22:15 – Why sharing vulnerable stories builds trust and healing on-air 26:41 – The therapeutic power of writing down trauma and “getting it out of you” 29:50 – Veterans and rewriting their stories through reflection and writing 34:08 – Healing can happen in a single song: how creativity bridges therapy and transformation 46:33 – How to start writing for healing—rituals, journaling, and slow writing 55:33 – Lindsay’s philosophy: “See the human in everyone—healing starts with empathy.” Learn More & Connect Show Notes + Resources: Connect with Lindsay Lawler: | Connect with Mark Scrivner: | Connect with Lee Pepper: | Our Sponsor - Snapshot:
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Ep. 22 Healing Across Generations: Brian O’Shea on Recovery, Trauma, and Spiritual Repair
10/14/2025
Ep. 22 Healing Across Generations: Brian O’Shea on Recovery, Trauma, and Spiritual Repair
Brian O’Shea, founder of Brian O’Shea Coaching and Consulting, joins MasterMined to explore the intersections of recovery, family systems, and spiritual repair. With over 30 years guiding individuals, families, and organizations, Brian brings the wisdom of lived experience — from early exposure to addiction and celebrity culture alongside Truman Capote, to decades of helping others navigate healing and purpose. In this conversation, Brian shares how trauma, education, and spirituality shaped his work; why leaders must address generational patterns in order to truly transform; and how contemplative practices like labyrinth walking and ceremony create space for repair. What You’ll Learn · How multigenerational trauma shapes behavior and recovery · Practical ways to bring spiritual repair into daily practice · How labyrinth design supports mindfulness and trauma healing · Why leaders and clinicians must keep investing in education · What it means to lead from humility and lived experience Key Moments · 02:44 – Brian’s path into behavioral health through peer recovery · 06:14 – Growing up around Truman Capote and lessons from addiction · 13:17 – Turning personal loss into purpose · 18:34 – The role of education and mentorship in longevity · 27:54 – Breaking generational trauma through story and safety · 34:50 – What spiritual repair really looks like · 42:06 – The power of labyrinth work and ceremony · 59:26 – From proximity to purpose: Brian’s advice for leaders Learn More & Connect Show Notes + Resources: Connect with Brian O’Shea: | Connect with Jeff Skillen: | Connect with Lee Pepper: | Our Sponsor - Snapshot: Compassion Fatigue: International Recovery Institute:
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Ep. 21 From Intervention to Innovation: Ben Seymour on Ethics, Admissions, and the Future of Behavioral Health
10/07/2025
Ep. 21 From Intervention to Innovation: Ben Seymour on Ethics, Admissions, and the Future of Behavioral Health
Ben Seymour, Partner at Southworth Associates, joins us to share lessons from 25 years in behavioral health. Starting as a technician in 1999, Ben became a counselor, interventionist, program founder, and now oversees compliance monitoring for professionals such as physicians, nurses, and lawyers. In this conversation, Ben traces his personal recovery journey, the influence of mentors like Arlene Rosen and John Southworth, and how intervention has shifted from quick-turn models to long-term, clinically sophisticated processes. He highlights the ethical discernment needed to match families with the right programs, the evolving balance between admissions and clinical teams, and why sales and motivational interviewing are two sides of the same coin. What You’ll Learn Why long-term treatment engagement creates stronger recovery outcomes How intervention models evolved to address co-occurring mental health The ethical guardrails interventionists must honor when choosing cases How admissions and clinical staff can better collaborate Why sales is simply “selling change” in behavioral health How treatment programs must integrate marketing and ethics to stay viable Key Moments 01:14 – Ben’s start in recovery and first role as a technician 05:13 – Learning intervention alongside pioneers in the field 07:05 – Building trust and learning from John Southworth 10:10 – How intervention models evolved to address mental health 17:04 – The ethics of program referrals and narrowing choices for families 26:11 – Why admissions is an intervention 30:34 – The critical role of marketing in treatment survival Learn More & Connect Show Notes + Resources: Connect with Mark Scrivner: | Connect with Jeff Skillen: | Connect with Lee Pepper: | Connect with Ben Seymour: | Our Sponsor - Snapshot:
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Ep. 20 - Making Strategic Planning Stick: Practical Insights with Mark & Jeff
09/30/2025
Ep. 20 - Making Strategic Planning Stick: Practical Insights with Mark & Jeff
In this episode of MasterMinded, hosts Jeff Skillen and Mark Scrivner dig deep into what makes strategic planning actually work. They unpack how to avoid the all-too-common pitfalls of strategy sessions that feel like a waste of time, and instead show how leaders can turn planning into a sustainable, energizing process. From simplifying frameworks to building accountability cadences, Jeff and Mark share practical insights you can put into practice immediately. Timestamps: 01:00 – Why strategy sessions don’t have to be a slog 02:30 – Shifting from checklist planning to culture-building 05:00 – The importance of frameworks and facilitation 08:20 – Why leaders should participate, not just facilitate 12:50 – Focusing on 3–5 objectives for clarity and impact 18:10 – Creating execution cadences that drive follow-through 27:30 – Thinking bigger: revenue goals and mindset shifts 33:15 – Why even small teams need strategic planning 39:20 – Best practices for offsite and pre-work prep 49:00 – Making planning engaging with themes and culture 55:00 – Execution, accountability, and unlocking potential What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why strategic planning fails when treated as a checklist — and how to shift it into culture. How to simplify planning down to 3–5 clear, measurable objectives. Why outside facilitation or frameworks help leaders get more from their teams. How cadence and accountability transform planning into execution. Practical ways to engage your team with pre-work, themes, and celebrations that sustain momentum. Learn More & Connect Show Notes + Resources: Connect with Jeff Skillen: | Connect with Mark Scrivner: | Connect with Lee Pepper: | Our Sponsor - Snapshot:
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Ep. 19 Advocacy, Compliance, and Differentiation in Behavioral Health with Nikki Soda
09/23/2025
Ep. 19 Advocacy, Compliance, and Differentiation in Behavioral Health with Nikki Soda
How can behavioral health programs set themselves apart while staying compliant and connected to policy shifts? In this episode, Jeff and Lee sit down with Nikki Soda, Executive Director of Sodas Consulting, to explore the intersection of advocacy, compliance, and sustainable growth in treatment. Nikki shares lessons from her years with NAATP and TPAS, insights from visiting 100+ treatment centers nationwide, and her perspective on what truly defines a high-quality program. From the realities of LegitScript to the importance of payor alignment and local politics, Nikki offers practical guidance leaders can act on immediately. Timestamps: 01:02 – Nikki’s path into advocacy and her MS in Addiction Policy 04:35 – What separates great treatment programs from average ones 09:06 – Building a blueprint for treatment center excellence 11:03 – Compliance officers and the value of proactive systems 13:06 – The challenges and shortcomings of LegitScript 20:20 – Innovations in research and treatment (GLP-1 medications, university partnerships) 23:41 – Staying relevant to payors through UR, compliance, and outcomes 28:10 – Why local politics matter more than most programs realize What You’ll Learn in This Episode How treatment centers can stand out by focusing on leadership, culture, and evidence-based outcomes. Why compliance officers and utilization review staff are critical for staying prepared and payor-aligned. Nikki’s candid take on LegitScript, its shortcomings, and how providers can push for reform. Innovative trends in behavioral health, from GLP-1s use in treatment to university research partnerships. Practical strategies for building stronger advocacy and political relationships at the local and state level. Learn More & Connect Show Notes + Resources: Connect with Jeff Skillen: | Connect with Lee Pepper: | Connect with Nikki Soda: Our Sponsor - Snapshot:
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Ep. 18 Never Outmatched: Leadership Lessons with Lee Pepper
09/16/2025
Ep. 18 Never Outmatched: Leadership Lessons with Lee Pepper
What does it take to stay “never outmatched” as a leader in today’s behavioral health landscape? Episode Overview: In this episode of MasterMined, hosts Mark Scrivner and Jeff Skillen flip the mic to their co-host, Lee Pepper, as he steps into the spotlight to share insights from his new book, Never Outmatched. Lee draws from his experiences as a strategist, executive, and coach to unpack what it means to lead with resilience, clarity, and purpose in the fast-changing world of behavioral health. For executives and entrepreneurs in behavioral health, this conversation is both practical and inspiring. Lee’s lessons bridge personal development and organizational leadership, offering a roadmap for building culture, navigating uncertainty, and driving sustainable growth. What You’ll Learn: Why resilience is the defining trait of great leaders Lessons from Lee’s journey writing Never Outmatched How to balance courage and humility in leadership The role of culture in organizational performance Practical steps for staying grounded while scaling growth Subscribe to MasterMined for candid conversations with leaders shaping the future of behavioral health. Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome to MasterMined 01:00 – Introducing Lee Pepper 03:20 – Why “Never Outmatched” matters for leaders 07:10 – The writing process and lessons learned 12:30 – Building resilient leadership in behavioral health 18:00 – Culture as a driver of performance 23:15 – Courage, humility, and decision-making 28:40 – Practical takeaways for executives 33:00 – Final reflections from Lee Learn More & Connect: Show Notes + Resources: Connect with Mark Scrivner: | Connect with Jeff Skillen: | Connect with Lee Pepper: | Our Sponsor - Snapshot: #MasterMinedPodcast #BehavioralHealth #Leadership #NeverOutmatched #HealthcareLeadership
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Ep. 17 How AI & Mobile Tech Are Reshaping Behavioral Health with Vincent Phamvan
09/09/2025
Ep. 17 How AI & Mobile Tech Are Reshaping Behavioral Health with Vincent Phamvan
Opening Hook: From marketing to recovery tools, AI and mobile technology are transforming behavioral health — but are organizations ready to adapt? Episode Overview: In this episode of MasterMined, hosts Mark Scrivner, Jeff Skillen, and Lee Pepper sit down with Vincent Phamvan, founder of Vyten and a three-time CMO who has helped brands like Vans, Allbirds, and Calendly scale smart. Vincent shares how mobile apps and AI are showing up across the behavioral health landscape, from patient engagement to marketing automation, and what leaders should know to implement them responsibly. For behavioral health executives and marketers, this episode offers a clear look at the promise and pitfalls of new technologies. Vincent explains how to balance innovation with compliance, where mobile apps create real value, and why AI will only be as effective as the people and processes behind it. What You’ll Learn: How mobile apps are transforming patient engagement in behavioral health. Practical ways AI is being used in marketing and operations. The risks and compliance challenges leaders must navigate. Why culture and strategy matter more than the tools themselves. How to prepare your organization for the next wave of health tech. Subscribe to MasterMined for candid, practical conversations with leaders shaping the business of behavioral health. Learn More & Connect: Show Notes + Resources: Snapshot Interactive: Connect with Mark Scrivner: Connect with Jeff Skillen: Connect with Lee Pepper: Connect with Vincent Phamvan:
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Ep. 16 Culture, Process, and Picking the Right EMR with Shawn Manis
09/01/2025
Ep. 16 Culture, Process, and Picking the Right EMR with Shawn Manis
What really makes or breaks an electronic medical record (EMR) implementation? It’s not the tech—it’s the culture and process behind it. In this episode of MasterMined, Mark Scrivner, Jeff Skillen, and Lee Pepper sit down with Shawn Manis, former CIO of North Point Recovery and Meadows Behavioral Health. Known as a “culture-driven operator and financial waste assassin,” Shawn shares practical strategies for evaluating, selecting, and integrating EMRs without torching your team’s morale. If you’re leading a behavioral health organization—or planning your next tech investment—this episode unpacks the real-world lessons CIOs rarely share: why “plug and play” is a myth, how culture eats technology for breakfast, and what leaders must measure to see true ROI. What You’ll Learn: Why processes—not platforms—determine EMR success The hidden costs of “plug and play” thinking How to get buy-in across departments (and why clinical teams can’t be left out) The 6-month ROI window and key indicators to track How AI and automation are shaping the future of health IT Don’t miss this deep dive into the intersection of culture, process, and technology. Subscribe to MasterMined today for more candid conversations on scaling behavioral health businesses. Learn More & Connect: Snapshot Interactive: Connect with the Hosts: Guest: Subscribe to the Join the MasterMined Newsletter:
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Ep. 15 | Billing Smarter, Not Harder with Patrick Dunn
08/26/2025
Ep. 15 | Billing Smarter, Not Harder with Patrick Dunn
Why does behavioral health billing feel like a constant battle? In this episode of MasterMined, we sit down with Patrick Dunn, Chief Strategy Officer at Hansei Solutions, to unpack the complexities of payer relationships, revenue cycle management, and why billing smarter—not harder—can transform your organization’s future. Patrick brings decades of experience as a clinician, executive, and strategist, offering a rare inside look at how providers and payers can stop playing cat-and-mouse and start building partnerships that work. From tackling audits and pay-to-patient nightmares to exploring how AI is reshaping documentation, this candid conversation gives leaders the practical tools to survive and thrive in payer land. Why it matters: If you’re leading or scaling a behavioral health business, understanding how to navigate billing, audits, and payers isn’t just finance—it’s survival. Patrick’s insights show how to turn compliance into strategy and how providers can win by preparing, partnering, and pushing for parity. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why payer relationships are shifting—and how providers can respond How to prepare your organization for audits before they happen The real impact of pay-to-patient policies and what legislation is changing How AI and automation are transforming revenue cycle management Why data, documentation, and compliance are now growth strategies Subscribe to MasterMined for more episodes that balance care and commerce in behavioral health. Learn More & Connect: Show notes + resources: Snapshot Interactive: Connect with the Guest Patrick Dunn: LinkedIn | Company | Connect with the Hosts: Mark Scrivner: LinkedIn | Company | Organization | Jeff Skillen: LinkedIn | Company |
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Ep. 14 Banking on Behavioral Health
08/19/2025
Ep. 14 Banking on Behavioral Health
When is the right time to call an investment banker? And what exactly can they do for your behavioral health business? In this episode of MasterMined, Mark Scrivner and Jeff Skillen sit down with L.A. Galyon, Managing Director at Brentwood Capital Advisors, to explore the often-misunderstood world of mergers, acquisitions, and capital raises in behavioral health. Drawing on years of advising founder-led organizations and private equity-backed platforms, L.A. shares his journey into investment banking, why timing matters, and how the right approach can maximize value for owners. Whether you’re years away from selling or actively preparing for a transaction, this conversation delivers candid insights on market dynamics, common missteps, and how to position your business for the best outcome. What You’ll Learn When and why to bring in an investment banker. How to prepare your behavioral health company for a sale. The current state of the M&A market in behavioral health. Common mistakes owners make in transaction planning. The value of starting conversations before you think you’re ready. Subscribe to MasterMined and never miss an episode on behavioral health business strategy, growth, and leadership. Learn More & Connect Connect with the Guest: L.A. Galyon: LinkedIn | Company | Connect with the Hosts Mark Scrivner: LinkedIn | Company | Organization | Jeff Skillen: LinkedIn | Company |
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Ep. 13 Turning Social Into Admissions Success
08/12/2025
Ep. 13 Turning Social Into Admissions Success
Digital ads and SEO might get all the hype — but if your social media game is weak, you’re leaving admissions on the table. In this episode of MasterMined, hosts Mark Scrivner, Jeff Skillen, and Lee Pepper unpack how behavioral health providers can turn social media into a true admissions driver — not just a branding checkbox. From audience targeting to content cadence, they break down what works, what doesn’t, and how to align your social strategy with your admissions process. If you’re running paid campaigns and optimizing your website but ignoring social, you’re missing a key lever for trust, engagement, and conversion. This episode will help you build a social strategy that drives measurable results. What You’ll Learn: Why ignoring social media limits your admissions potential How to integrate social strategy with your marketing and admissions funnel Content types that build trust with potential clients and families The importance of consistency and authenticity in posting How to track and measure social’s real business impact Subscribe to MasterMined and never miss a conversation that helps you grow your behavioral health business. Learn More & Connect: Mark Scrivner: LinkedIn | Company | Lee Pepper: LinkedIn | Company | Jeff Skillen: LinkedIn | Company |
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Ep 12 Why Reputation Precedes Revenue
08/05/2025
Ep 12 Why Reputation Precedes Revenue
Your reputation isn’t just about how you’re seen — it’s the foundation of your ability to serve. In this episode of MasterMined, New York Times bestselling author and Brand Builders Group co-founder Rory Vaden joins Mark Scrivner, Jeff Skillen, and Lee Pepper to unpack why “reputation precedes revenue” and how behavioral health leaders can build trust through authentic personal branding. Rory shares insights from his “results × reach = reputation” formula, real-world examples, and strategies for showing up consistently without feeling self-promotional. In high-trust industries like behavioral health, visibility is not vanity — it’s a responsibility. By elevating the personal brands of your leaders and clinicians, you can deepen trust, attract more of the right patients, and strengthen your mission. What You’ll Learn: How the “results × reach = reputation” formula can grow your influence Why personal branding is essential in behavioral health leadership How to reframe visibility from ego to service The role of storytelling in building lasting trust Practical ways to “automate trust” at scale Subscribe to MasterMined for more conversations that help behavioral health leaders balance care and commerce with confidence. Learn More & Connect: Visit Snapshot: Follow us on LinkedIn: Connect with the Guest: Rory Vaden: LinkedIn | Company | Free Audio Book: Connect with the Hosts Mark Scrivner: LinkedIn | Company | Organization | Lee Pepper: LinkedIn | Company |
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Ep. 11 Systems Over Stars: How Behavioral Health Really Scales
07/31/2025
Ep. 11 Systems Over Stars: How Behavioral Health Really Scales
What really drives success in behavioral health — brilliant clinicians or bulletproof systems? Drew Rothermel, CEO of Defining Wellness, has led some of the most respected treatment centers in the country, and his answer might surprise you. In this candid conversation, Drew joins hosts Mark Scrivner and Jeff Skillen to break down the evolution of the behavioral health industry over the past two decades — from pre-Affordable Care Act to the private equity era. He shares hard-earned lessons on building organizations that last, leading with integrity, and making strategic marketing calls when the stakes are high. Whether you’re running a program, working in the field, or planning to launch something new, Drew’s perspective will challenge assumptions about what it takes to truly scale behavioral health services. You’ll walk away with a clear understanding of why operational systems — not just great clinical talent — are the key to long-term impact and growth. What You’ll Learn: Why systems, not individual stars, are the real driver of sustained recovery outcomes. The evolution of behavioral health business models from cash pay to in-network care. The differences — and tradeoffs — between nonprofit and for-profit structures. How CEOs should evaluate and align marketing with organizational goals. Practical strategies for keeping all departments aligned and focused on the mission. If you’re serious about growing and sustaining a behavioral health organization, this episode is a must-listen. Subscribe to MasterMined wherever you listen to podcasts so you never miss an industry-shaping conversation. Learn More & Connect: Visit Snapshot: Follow us on LinkedIn: Connect with the Guest: Drew Rothermel: LinkedIn | Company | Connect with the Hosts Mark Scrivner: LinkedIn | Company | Organization | Jeff Skillen: LinkedIn | Company |
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Ep. 10 The Alumni Effect: How Engagement Powers Growth
07/24/2025
Ep. 10 The Alumni Effect: How Engagement Powers Growth
Your alumni program isn’t just a feel-good initiative — it’s one of the most underutilized engines for growth in behavioral health. In this episode, Mark, Jeff, and Lee unpack the real business value of alumni engagement. From patient outcomes to long-term brand impact, a strong alumni program creates a ripple effect that touches marketing, admissions, research, and referrals. But building one takes more than a Facebook group and good intentions — it takes strategy, structure, and storytelling. If your treatment center doesn’t invest in alumni, you’re missing one of the lowest cost, highest return opportunities to scale your reach and deepen your impact. This episode shows you how to activate that network with intention — without losing your personal touch. What You’ll Learn: How alumni can account for 30% of new admissions The cost of not investing in long-term patient connection Why alumni engagement boosts outcomes and brand equity Proven event and activation strategies that scale How to track impact and "defend the spend" with data What to avoid when launching or revamping your alumni program Subscribe to MasterMined for more practical conversations at the intersection of behavioral health and business. Learn More & Connect: Learn More & Connect: Visit Snapshot: Follow us on LinkedIn: Connect with Host – Mark Scrivner: LinkedIn | Company | Creative Assembly | Lee Pepper: LinkedIn | Company | Jeff Skillen: LinkedIn | Company |
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Ep. 9 Accountable Marketing: Moving Past Vanity Metrics in Behavioral Health
07/17/2025
Ep. 9 Accountable Marketing: Moving Past Vanity Metrics in Behavioral Health
In this episode of the MasterMined Podcast, the team tackles the realities of performance marketing in behavioral health—and why many treatment centers still waste money chasing the wrong metrics. From misaligned digital spend to poor reporting and missed conversion opportunities, Jeff Skillen and Lee Pepper break down what performance marketing really looks like in 2025. If you’re running a treatment center, managing marketing budgets, or working with digital partners, this is your playbook for spending smarter—and driving real results. You’ll learn: Why performance marketing is more than ad clicks The key metrics that matter for behavioral health today How to avoid wasted spend and improve ROI The importance of transparency and accountability with digital partners Where marketing budgets should shift in 2025 and beyond Subscribe for more candid insights from leaders in behavioral health growth and marketing. Learn More & Connect: Visit Snapshot: Follow us on LinkedIn: Connect with Host – Mark Scrivner: LinkedIn | Company | Lee Pepper: LinkedIn | Company | Jeff Skillen: LinkedIn | Company |
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Ep. 8: Beyond the Funnel: Fixing Admissions to Boost Behavioral Health Outcomes
07/10/2025
Ep. 8: Beyond the Funnel: Fixing Admissions to Boost Behavioral Health Outcomes
In this episode of the MasterMined Podcast, the team dives into one of the most overlooked issues in behavioral health growth: the disconnect between marketing and admissions—and how it’s quietly draining your census. From missed calls and untrained reps to siloed teams and reactive leadership, we explore how seemingly small breakdowns in the admissions process can have massive impact on conversions, revenue, and reputation. You’ll learn: Why great marketing doesn’t matter if your admissions team isn’t ready Where the biggest leaks in the funnel happen—and how to spot them How empathy, tone, and timing make or break a first call Why training your admissions team is as critical as training clinicians The power of recorded calls and weekly coaching to build confidence How to break silos and unify marketing, BD, alumni, and admissions Whether you're a behavioral health executive, call center director, or marketing leader, this episode is your playbook for optimizing admissions—and turning leads into lives changed. Subscribe for more real talk and practical insights from leaders in behavioral health marketing and operations. Connect with our Hosts: Mark Scrivner LinkedIn | Company | Lee Pepper LinkedIn | Company | Jeff Skillen LinkedIn | Company | #MasterMined #BehavioralHealthAdmissions #MarketingAndAdmissions #CallCenterTraining #EmpathyInHealthcare #BehavioralHealthGrowth #FunnelOptimization #PatientExperience #ToneAndTiming #DigitalMarketingHealthcare #MasterMinedPodcast
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Ep 7: The Rise of AI and the Evolution of SEO in Behavioral Health Marketing
07/03/2025
Ep 7: The Rise of AI and the Evolution of SEO in Behavioral Health Marketing
In this game-changing episode of the Mastermind Podcast, the team dives into one of the biggest shifts in digital marketing: the impact of AI on SEO — and what it means for behavioral health organizations. From the rise of Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) to the decline of traditional keyword strategies, we explore how search engines, chatbots, and AI overviews are transforming the way people discover treatment centers. 💡 You’ll learn: Why SEO isn’t dead — it’s just evolving What GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) really means How behavioral health providers can future-proof digital strategies Why no-click searches are reducing traffic — and how to get it back How to optimize content for ChatGPT, Gemini, Google SGE & more The vital importance of E-E-A-T, multimodal content, hyper-local PR, and brand validation Whether you're a behavioral health executive, marketing director, or SEO strategist, this episode is your blueprint for relevance in the age of AI. 🔔 Subscribe for more practical marketing advice from leaders in behavioral healthcare. Connect with our Guest: Sean Whitmore: LinkedIn | Company | Connect with our Hosts: Mark Scrivner: LinkedIn | Company | Lee Pepper: LinkedIn | Company | Jeff Skillen: LinkedIn | Company | #AIinHealthcare #BehavioralHealthMarketing #GEOvsSEO #GenerativeSearch #MentalHealthSEO #DigitalMarketingHealthcare #SearchEngineTrends #NoClickSearch #MastermindPodcast #ContentStrategy #HealthcareSEO
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Ep. 6: Fractional CFOs for Behavioral Health Success
06/26/2025
Ep. 6: Fractional CFOs for Behavioral Health Success
Welcome to Episode 6 of the MasterMined Podcast, your behavioral health business playbook! In this episode, Lee Pepper sits down with John Maher from FocusCFO to discuss the powerful role of fractional CFOs in driving financial clarity, stability, and growth for behavioral health centers. Whether you're running a treatment center, outpatient program, or mental health startup, this conversation dives into when and why a fractional CFO could be your missing link. Topics include: ✔️ When to hire a CFO ✔️ Cash flow modeling & compliance ✔️ Growth, exits, and M&A prep ✔️ Behavioral health payer trends ✔️ How CFOs integrate into your leadership team ✔️ Marketing spend, budgeting, and measuring ROI ✔️ Why data dashboards are non-negotiable Don’t miss this inside look at how seasoned CFOs help balance care with commerce. 🔗 Learn more: FocusCFO – Snapshot Agency – 🎧 Subscribe for more actionable insights every episode! #behavioralhealth #CFO #fractionalCFO #mentalhealthbusiness #healthcarefinance #treatmentcenters #businessgrowth #healthcaremarketing #MasterMindPodcast #MergersAndAcquisitions #FocusCFO #CashFlow #HealthTech
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