Forging Forward Podcast
Forging Forward is a long-form podcast focused on growth, resilience, and honest conversations about what it means to build a meaningful life. Hosted by Adam Thorne and Andy Kemp, the show blends mental health, personal development, culture, and real-world experience—without clichés or therapy-speak. Each episode explores how people move forward through challenge: identity shifts, failure, discipline, masculinity, purpose, relationships, and mental health in the modern world. Some episodes feature thoughtful guest conversations, while others are grounded, reflective discussions that cut through noise and trend-chasing. Forging Forward is direct, practical, and human—designed for people who want to think clearly, take responsibility, and keep moving forward even when things get uncomfortable.
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Forging Forward — When Boundaries Break: Ethics, Power, and Trust in Therapy
02/10/2026
Forging Forward — When Boundaries Break: Ethics, Power, and Trust in Therapy
In this episode of Forging Forward, Adam and Andy address a recent, widely discussed incident in the Bozeman community involving allegations against a therapist who also held a position of public authority. Without naming individuals or speculating on outcomes, the conversation focuses on what situations like this reveal about professional ethics, power dynamics, and the responsibility that comes with working in deeply trusting relationships. They break down why boundaries exist in therapy, how power imbalances can persist even after sessions end, and why ethical standards are designed to protect clients, clinicians, and the integrity of the profession. The episode also explores the broader community impact, including how cases like this affect public trust and how male therapists, in particular, can navigate the fallout without becoming defensive, withdrawn, or isolated. Adam and Andy discuss how male clinicians should talk with one another for support, why peer consultation matters, and whether current ethics training adequately prepares therapists for modern realities like digital communication, small-town dual roles, and blurred boundaries. The episode closes with a grounded reflection on accountability, due process, and the importance of strengthening trust through transparency, humility, and responsibility rather than fear or silence. Email us: About the Hosts: Adam Thorne : https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1441965 Andy Kemp : https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/andrew-andy-kemp-bozeman-mt/879276
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Forging Forward — Episode: Moral Fatigue
02/02/2026
Forging Forward — Episode: Moral Fatigue
Moral fatigue isn’t burnout, and it’s not depression. It’s what happens when you’re constantly trying to do the right thing in a system that never stops asking more of you. In this episode of Forging Forward, We break down moral fatigue—how it shows up in men who care deeply about their work, their families, and their values, yet feel increasingly numb, cynical, or quietly resentful. We talk about why willpower isn’t the issue, why “just take a break” doesn’t fix it, and how prolonged value conflict slowly drains motivation, clarity, and meaning. This is a grounded conversation about responsibility overload, ethical pressure, and what happens when your nervous system never gets permission to stand down. More importantly, we look at how to recover your internal compass without checking out, becoming bitter, or burning everything down. If you’ve ever thought, “I’m doing everything right, so why do I feel like this?”—this one’s for you. About the Hosts: Adam Thorne : https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1441965 Andy Kemp : https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/andrew-andy-kemp-bozeman-mt/879276
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Forging Forward — Sleep – NapLab with Derek Hales
01/24/2026
Forging Forward — Sleep – NapLab with Derek Hales
Go to for the best mattress reviews In this episode of Forging Forward, Adam sits down with , founder of , to break down one of the most misunderstood pillars of mental health: Sleep. Sleep isn’t just about feeling rested. It’s about emotional regulation, decision-making, impulse control, anxiety, depression, and long-term brain health. Yet most people are guessing their way through it with caffeine, willpower, and bad advice. Derek brings a data-driven perspective from years of testing mattresses, sleep environments, and recovery variables, while Adam connects the dots between sleep deprivation and what he sees every day in therapy: heightened anxiety, low mood, poor focus, burnout, and nervous-system dysregulation. If you’re working on yourself but still feel foggy, reactive, or exhausted — this episode might explain why. About the Hosts: Adam Thorne : https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1441965 Andy Kemp : https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/andrew-andy-kemp-bozeman-mt/879276
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Forging Forward — Episode: Dry January
01/20/2026
Forging Forward — Episode: Dry January
Email us with questions or comments at: In this episode of Forging Forward, we take an honest look at Dry January and what actually happens when you take a break from alcohol. We talk through the real changes people notice in sleep, anxiety, mood, energy, and focus, along with the psychological shifts that often show up once alcohol is out of the picture. This is not about shaming drinking or pushing total abstinence. It is about paying attention. We explore who Dry January tends to help most, where it can feel harder than expected, and how a short reset can reveal patterns around stress, coping, and emotional regulation. If you have ever wondered whether alcohol is truly helping you unwind or quietly working against your mental health, this episode offers a grounded place to reflect and decide what makes sense for you moving forward. About the Hosts: Adam Thorne : https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1441965 Andy Kemp : https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/andrew-andy-kemp-bozeman-mt/879276
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Forging Forward: Losing Hope
01/12/2026
Forging Forward: Losing Hope
Forging Forward — Episode: Losing Hope What happens when the future feels closed, motivation disappears, and everything starts to feel pointless? In this episode of Forging Forward, therapists Adam Thorne and Andy Kemp go straight into one of the quietest and most dangerous emotional states there is: losing hope. They break down how hopelessness actually forms in the nervous system, why people often feel “stuck” even when nothing obvious is wrong, and how long-term stress, depression, trauma, addiction, and burnout slowly train the brain to stop expecting things to get better. This isn’t a motivational talk or a “just think positive” episode. It’s a grounded look at what happens when the mind gives up and how people can begin to feel forward movement again. You’ll hear how hopelessness shows up in real therapy rooms, why it often looks like laziness or apathy from the outside, and what actually helps someone start to rebuild belief in themselves, their relationships, and their future. If you’ve been waking up tired of trying, feeling disconnected from your goals, or quietly wondering if anything is ever going to change, this episode is for you. About the Hosts: Adam Thorne : https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1441965 Andy Kemp : https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/andrew-andy-kemp-bozeman-mt/879276
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Forging Forward: Gatekeeping
12/30/2025
Forging Forward: Gatekeeping
About the Hosts: Adam Thorne Psychology Today Profile: Andy Kemp Psychology Today Profile: If you’re feeling shut out, dismissed, or unsure whether your experiences “qualify,” reach out to Adam or Andy for personalized support. Both offer free consultations—book yours today and take the first step toward being heard without having to justify yourself. In this episode of Forging Forward, Adam Thorne and Andy Kemp take on gatekeeping—the often subtle but powerful behavior where someone decides who is allowed to speak, belong, struggle, or be taken seriously. Gatekeeping can show up in relationships, families, workplaces, therapy spaces, and even personal growth communities, quietly reinforcing the message that you don’t meet the standard. From being told your pain “isn’t bad enough,” to having your opinions minimized because of your background, identity, or experience level, gatekeeping undermines confidence and creates unnecessary hierarchy. Adam and Andy break down what gatekeeping actually looks like in real life, why people do it, and how it impacts self-worth, authenticity, and emotional safety. The conversation focuses on how to recognize gatekeeping when it’s happening, how to respond without getting pulled into power struggles, and how to reclaim your right to your own voice and experience. Drawing on their work as therapists here in Bozeman, Adam and Andy offer practical insights for setting boundaries, trusting your internal compass, and staying grounded when someone else tries to control the narrative. If you’ve ever felt like you had to earn the right to speak, belong, or be taken seriously, this episode is for you. Tune in and keep forging forward—without asking permission.
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Forging Forward: Gaslighting
12/24/2025
Forging Forward: Gaslighting
Gaslighting About the Hosts: Adam Thorne Psychology Today Profile: Andy Kemp Psychology Today Profile: If you're struggling with manipulation, emotional abuse, or any mental health concerns, reach out to Adam or Andy for personalized support. Both offer free consultations—book yours today and take the first step toward trusting yourself again. As relationships deepen and challenges arise here in Bozeman, many of us experience that unsettling doubt—questioning our own memories, feelings dismissed as "overreactions," or wondering if we're truly "too sensitive." If this sounds familiar, you're not alone: it's gaslighting, a form of emotional manipulation that erodes your trust in your own perception of reality. In this enlightening episode of Forging Forward, host Adam Thorne and co-host Andy Kemp—two experienced therapists based right here in Bozeman—dive deep into gaslighting. They break down what it really is (beyond just "playing mind games"), explore common signs like denial of events, trivializing your feelings, outright lying, or shifting blame, and share evidence-based strategies to fight back. From setting firm boundaries and journaling incidents to rebuilding self-trust through therapy techniques, lifestyle adjustments, and knowing when professional help or distance is needed, Adam and Andy offer practical, hopeful insights drawn from their years helping clients navigate manipulative dynamics in relationships, work, or family. Whether you're noticing these patterns in yourself or someone you care about, tune in and start forging forward toward brighter, more authentic days!
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Forging Forward: Beating the Winter Blues: Understanding and Overcoming Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
12/14/2025
Forging Forward: Beating the Winter Blues: Understanding and Overcoming Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
As the days grow shorter and the Montana winters settle in here in Bozeman, many of us feel that familiar drag—low energy, persistent sadness, cravings for comfort foods, or just a sense that motivation has packed up and left for sunnier skies. If this sounds like you, you're not alone: it's Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a real form of depression that hits reliably with the changing seasons. In this enlightening episode of Forging Forward, host Adam Thorne and co-host Andy Kemp—two experienced therapists based right here in Bozeman—dive deep into SAD. They break down what it really is (beyond just the "winter blues"), explore common symptoms like oversleeping, social withdrawal, irritability, and carb cravings, and share evidence-based strategies to fight back. From the power of light therapy and circadian rhythm hacks to cognitive behavioral techniques, lifestyle tweaks, and when medication or professional support might make a difference, Adam and Andy offer practical, hopeful insights drawn from their years helping clients thrive through Montana's long winters. Whether you're noticing these patterns in yourself or someone you care about, this conversation will empower you with tools to reclaim your energy and mood—no matter how gray the sky gets. Tune in and start forging forward toward brighter days! About the Hosts: Adam Thorne : https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1441965 Andy Kemp : https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/andrew-andy-kemp-bozeman-mt/879276 If you're struggling with seasonal changes or any mental health concerns, reach out to Adam or Andy for personalized support. Both offer free consultations—book yours today and take the first step toward feeling like yourself again.
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Man Made Podcast ep. 51 Shawn's once again changing the name of the show
04/15/2025
Man Made Podcast ep. 51 Shawn's once again changing the name of the show
Welcome to the ManMade Podcast This Podcast is with Shawn Helvey and Adam Thorne. Shawn is a licensed behavioral health counselor and Adam is a graduate student in behavioral health counseling. They’ve known each other for over 25 years and talk every week about the trials and tribulations of life. In this episode, we’re thrilled to have Shawn in town, so we’re recording in person together—though, fair warning, he’s once again pitching to rename the show, and we’ll see if he wins this round. We’re diving deep into mental health and what it means to be a man today, sidestepping the tired patriarchy debate to focus on why supporting men—whose suicide rates are nearly four times higher than women’s, per CDC data—lifts up families, friends, and entire communities. Expect a sharp look at the stigma keeping guys quiet, practical steps to redefine strength, and real stories that hit home. Some resources that may be useful: Contact us at:
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Man Made Podcast ep. 50 Grief part 2
03/19/2025
Man Made Podcast ep. 50 Grief part 2
Welcome to the ManMade Podcast This Podcast is with Shawn Helvey and Adam Thorne. Shawn is a licensed behavioral health counselor and Adam is a graduate student in behavioral health counseling. They’ve known each other for over 25 years and talk every week about the trials and tribulations of life. This weeks guest is Mike Beckingham
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Man Made Podcast ep. 49 Grief
02/28/2025
Man Made Podcast ep. 49 Grief
On this episode of Manmade Podcast, I sit down with my lifelong friend, , to explore the profound impact of grief. Mike recently lost his father and is nearing the 10-year anniversary of his mother’s passing. Together, we examine the emotional and psychological dimensions of these losses, unpacking the strategies he’s found effective in navigating this dual bereavement. From resilience-building techniques to the role of memory in healing, this conversation offers an intimate, evidence-informed look at coping with grief over time. Join us for a poignant and practical discussion. Contact us at
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Mind Matters ep. 4
05/02/2024
Mind Matters ep. 4
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Mind Matters ep.3
04/12/2024
Mind Matters ep.3
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Mind Matters ep.2
04/04/2024
Mind Matters ep.2
Welcome to Mind Matters This Podcast is with Shawn Helvey and Adam Thorne. Shawn is a licensed behavioral health counselor and Adam is a graduate student in behavioral health counseling. They’ve known each other for over 25 years and talk every week about the trials and tribulations of life. Contact us at:
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Mind Matters ep.1
03/25/2024
Mind Matters ep.1
Welcome to the ManMade Podcast This Podcast is with Shawn Helvey and Adam Thorne. Shawn is a licensed behavioral health counselor and Adam is a graduate student in behavioral health counseling. They’ve known each other for over 25 years and talk every week about the trials and tribulations of life. This week we are showcasing our first episode of Mind Matters a radio call-in advice show that airs in Knoxville TN. We hope you enjoy it. Contact us at:
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Man Made Podcast ep. 48 Creating Harmonious Relationships
03/01/2024
Man Made Podcast ep. 48 Creating Harmonious Relationships
Welcome to the ManMade Podcast This Podcast is with Shawn Helvey and Adam Thorne. Shawn is a licensed behavioral health counselor and Adam is a graduate student in behavioral health counseling. They’ve known each other for over 25 years and talk every week about the trials and tribulations of life. Creating harmonious relationships is like being part of an orchestra where everyone is playing different instruments. Imagine trying to play the violin while someone else is vigorously banging the drums right next to you – it's chaotic, loud, and you can barely hear yourself think, let alone create a symphony! This cacophony is much like the discord we face in our daily interactions when harmony is missing. Just like in music, where harmony adds depth and beauty, in life, harmonious relationships can be the difference between feeling like you're constantly in a solo battle with a cacophony of cymbals and experiencing the mental tranquility of a well-composed melody. So, for the sake of our mental health, let's strive to be maestros of our own emotional orchestras, ensuring that each relationship we have adds a note of peace, rather than a blast of chaos, to the symphony of our lives. This way, we can all enjoy the concert of existence, maybe even with a standing ovation from our serotonin and dopamine receptors. Some resources that may be useful: Contact us at:
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Man Made Podcast ep. 47
02/21/2024
Man Made Podcast ep. 47
Welcome to the ManMade Podcast This Podcast is with Shawn Helvey and Adam Thorne. Shawn is a licensed behavioral health counselor and Adam is a graduate student in behavioral health counseling. They’ve known each other for over 25 years and talk every week about the trials and tribulations of life. Contact us at:
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Man Made Podcast ep. 46 Unexpected Events
02/14/2024
Man Made Podcast ep. 46 Unexpected Events
Welcome to the ManMade Podcast This Podcast is with Shawn Helvey and Adam Thorne. Shawn is a licensed behavioral health counselor and Adam is a graduate student in behavioral health counseling. They’ve known each other for over 25 years and talk every week about the trials and tribulations of life. Alright, picture this: You're minding your own business, living your life, when suddenly, out of nowhere, life decides to throw a curveball at you. It's like, "Hey, here's a little surprise for ya!" And it's never a good surprise, right? It's always something ridiculous that makes you go, "Really? This is what we're doing now?" So, what do you do? You gotta deal with it, but here's the kicker—you deal with it like Bill Burr would. First, you gotta face it head-on, with that classic Burr skepticism. You look at the situation, shake your head, and say, "Oh, fantastic. What's next? Aliens landing in my backyard asking for directions to the nearest Starbucks?" Then, you gotta laugh at it. Not just a little chuckle, but that full-on, Bill Burr-style, sarcastic laugh that says, "I can't believe this is my life right now." It's all about finding the humor in the absurdity of it all. Because, let's face it, sometimes life's just a poorly written sitcom, and you're the main character dealing with the world's most absurd plot twists. And finally, talk about it. Rant to your friends, your family, or even to a bunch of strangers at a stand-up show if that's your thing. Turn your misfortune into a hilarious story. Because when you think about it, the best way to deal with life's unexpected punches is to punch back with a joke. And who knows? Maybe you'll end up with a bit that's so good, it'll have people rolling in the aisles, forgetting all about their own crazy life plot twists. Some resources that may be useful: Contact us at:
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Man Made Podcast ep. 45 Awkward Interactions
01/25/2024
Man Made Podcast ep. 45 Awkward Interactions
Welcome to the ManMade Podcast This Podcast is with Shawn Helvey and Adam Thorne. Shawn is a licensed behavioral health counselor and Adam is a graduate student in behavioral health counseling. They’ve known each other for over 25 years and talk every week about the trials and tribulations of life. Awkward interactions are like uninvited guests at the party of life; they just show up, usually at the most inopportune times. Picture this: You're in an elevator, and your brain decides it's the perfect moment to forget every social norm. You blurt out to a stranger, “Nice weather inside, isn’t it?” and immediately wish you could vanish into thin air. But fear not! The key to overcoming these cringe-worthy moments lies in embracing them with a hint of humor. Think of them as mental burpees - slightly uncomfortable but great for your social fitness. Next time you find yourself in the middle of an awkward tango, just smile and think, “Well, this will make a great story for my pet turtle!” Remember, everyone has these moments, and they’re just tiny blips in the grand scheme of things. So, laugh it off, maybe share your awkward tale with a friend, and watch how a little chuckle can turn a face-palm moment into a fun anecdote. It’s like giving your mental health a high-five! Some resources that may be useful: Contact us at:
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Man Made Podcast ep. 44 Shallow Self Discipline
01/16/2024
Man Made Podcast ep. 44 Shallow Self Discipline
Welcome to the ManMade Podcast This Podcast is with Shawn Helvey and Adam Thorne. Shawn is a licensed behavioral health counselor and Adam is a graduate student in behavioral health counseling. They’ve known each other for over 25 years and talk every week about the trials and tribulations of life. Shallow self-discipline, as practiced by some life coaches, can often resemble a motivational poster that's lost its way – all flash and no substance. Imagine a life coach, armed with an arsenal of clichés, eagerly dispensing advice like a vending machine stuck on the 'inspirational quotes' setting. They often miss the mark, offering cookie-cutter solutions to deep-rooted issues. The irony is that their messages, intended to spark discipline, often lack the very depth and discipline they're preaching about. True discipline is more than just a catchy hashtag or a well-timed pep talk; it requires empathy, compassion, and understanding. It's about guiding someone through their journey with the gentleness of a friend and the wisdom of a sage. Think of it as trying to teach someone to swim by throwing them a pool noodle instead of jumping in the water with them. The best coaches dive in, ready to demonstrate each stroke with a blend of kindness and expertise, turning the daunting task of learning into an enjoyable swim in the ocean of self-improvement. Some resources that may be useful: Contact us at:
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Man Made Podcast ep. 43 Creating close relationships
01/11/2024
Man Made Podcast ep. 43 Creating close relationships
Welcome to the ManMade Podcast This Podcast is with Shawn Helvey and Adam Thorne. Shawn is a licensed behavioral health counselor and Adam is a graduate student in behavioral health counseling. They’ve known each other for over 25 years and talk every week about the trials and tribulations of life. Creating close relationships is essential for maintaining good mental health, and let's be real, who doesn't want a support squad for life's craziness? Step one: throw away your "stranger danger" caution – within reason, of course. You won't make pals with a potted plant. Step two: embrace awkward moments. They're like the glue that holds friendships together. Remember that cringeworthy joke you cracked? It's now a cherished inside joke. Step three: be an exceptional listener. People will flock to you like moths to a flame if they know you're willing to hear their drama. And lastly, make time for face-to-face interactions – emojis can only convey so much. So, let's go out there, embrace the social circus, and collect friends like they're Pokémon. Your mental health will thank you, and who knows, maybe you'll even find someone who laughs at your puns. Some resources that may be useful: Contact us at:
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Man Made Podcast ep. 42 Supporting family or friend with mental health struggles
01/04/2024
Man Made Podcast ep. 42 Supporting family or friend with mental health struggles
Welcome to the ManMade Podcast This Podcast is with Shawn Helvey and Adam Thorne. Shawn is a licensed behavioral health counselor and Adam is a graduate student in behavioral health counseling. They’ve known each other for over 25 years and talk every week about the trials and tribulations of life. Supporting a friend or family member with mental health struggles can sometimes feel like trying to assemble a piece of IKEA furniture without the instructions - you’ve got all these tools and good intentions, but you’re not quite sure where that weird-looking screw is supposed to go. The key? Patience, a sense of humor, and the understanding that you’re not expected to be a licensed therapist – unless, of course, you really are one, in which case, kudos! Think of it as being a cheerleader, but instead of pom-poms, you're armed with an empathetic ear and the willingness to ride the rollercoaster of emotions with them – and let's face it, who doesn't love a good rollercoaster? The ups, the downs, the slightly queasy feeling afterwards – it's all part of the journey. The goal is to create an environment where everyone feels okay not being okay all the time, because let's be honest, pretending to be a Zen master 24/7 is more exhausting than trying to say "phenomenal psychological facilitator" five times fast. So, let’s champion positive mental health for all – with a smile, a listening ear, and maybe a comforting cup of tea. Some resources that may be useful: Contact us at:
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The Man Made Podcast ep. 41. Who you are will change
12/19/2023
The Man Made Podcast ep. 41. Who you are will change
Welcome to the ManMade Podcast This Podcast is with Shawn Helvey and Adam Thorne. Shawn is a licensed behavioral health counselor and Adam is a graduate student in behavioral health counseling. They’ve known each other for over 25 years and talk every week about the trials and tribulations of life. As we journey through life, it's almost as if we're participating in an endless series of wardrobe changes in a cosmic play, where the roles we adopt and the scripts we follow evolve with each passing scene. From the obstinate toddler with a penchant for emphatic "No's," to the rebellious teenager who knows everything (just ask them!), and eventually to the wise elder who realizes they know very little, our identities are constantly in a state of playful flux. However, the irony is that most people view life with the rigidity of a statue, believing that who they are today is a permanent fixture, like an unchangeable tattoo on the soul. This fixed mindset overlooks the beautiful and sometimes hilariously unpredictable nature of personal growth. As we age, our experiences, relationships, and introspections mold us into continually evolving versions of ourselves. Embracing this change requires the patience of a saint and the openness of a child at a magic show. From a mental health perspective, recognizing and laughing at this ever-changing nature of self can be liberating. It reminds us to take ourselves a bit less seriously and to be curious and open to the myriad of possibilities that each new version of 'us' might bring. So next time you find yourself puzzled by your own transformation, remember, it's just another costume change in the grand performance of life! Some resources that may be useful: Contact us at:
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The Man Made Podcast ep. 40. Role Models
11/30/2023
The Man Made Podcast ep. 40. Role Models
Welcome to the ManMade Podcast This Podcast is with Shawn Helvey and Adam Thorne. Shawn is a licensed behavioral health counselor and Adam is a graduate student in behavioral health counseling. They’ve known each other for over 25 years and talk every week about the trials and tribulations of life. Imagine a role model as a multifunctional gadget for the psyche - part can-opener for unleashing pent-up emotions, part screwdriver for tightening those wobbly thoughts, and a surprising toothpick for poking at persistent, pesky habits. In today’s episode, we uncover how the right mentor doesn't just guide us on our journey; they also bring a much-needed dose of laughter to the table. It turns out that the best kind of mental health booster might just be finding that one person whose life is as delightfully odd as your own. So, get ready to chuckle your way to better mental wellbeing with the help of a role model who knows how to turn life's lemons into a comedy routine! Some resources that may be useful: Contact us at:
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The Man Made Podcast ep. 39. Getting Better Sleep
11/02/2023
The Man Made Podcast ep. 39. Getting Better Sleep
Welcome to the ManMade Podcast This Podcast is with Shawn Helvey and Adam Thorne. Shawn is a licensed behavioral health counselor and Adam is a graduate student in behavioral health counseling. They’ve known each other for over 25 years and talk every week about the trials and tribulations of life. Good sleep is the secret handshake into the elite club of sanity. Think of it as the brain's nightly retreat to a five-star resort where every neuron is pampered and prepped to take on tomorrow's emotional rollercoasters. Shortchange your slumber, and your mind turns into a clumsy juggler of moods, dropping balls left and right. To win the pillow's favor, one must master the bedtime ballet. Slip into your most embarrassingly old PJs, and practice the sacred ritual of the screen ban, dodging the blue light demon like it's last year's meme. Counting sheep may be out, but a steadfast “lights out” policy remains a golden oldie. Embrace these snooze-inducing spells, and your mental health will thank you—with less of the drama and more of the dreamland! Some resources that may be useful: Contact us at:
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The Man Made Podcast ep. 38. Resistance
10/27/2023
The Man Made Podcast ep. 38. Resistance
Welcome to the ManMade Podcast This Podcast is with Shawn Helvey and Adam Thorne. Shawn is a licensed behavioral health counselor and Adam is a graduate student in behavioral health counseling. They’ve known each other for over 25 years and talk every week about the trials and tribulations of life. In the grand obstacle course of therapy, 'resistance' is that cheeky monkey wrench your brain throws into the machinery. Imagine it: there you are, jogging along the therapeutic path, leaping over childhood traumas, sidestepping anxiety banana peels, and high-fiving your inner child, when this sly nemesis pops up. It convinces you that those emotional potholes are just "fine" the way they are, thank you very much. But here's the fun twist: overcoming resistance is like finding a secret warp tunnel that propels you forward, Mario Kart-style. By confronting this crafty adversary, you don't just continue the race; you turbo-boost with star power! You pivot around mental roadblocks, discovering that they were actually made of squishy stress-marshmallows. Resistance may try to spoil the party, but once you push past it, you realize you've gained XP in emotional resilience, unlocked the "Self-Compassion" achievement, and can now sport sparkling, new self-awareness sneakers for the rest of your run. So, let's thank our pesky pal, resistance; without it, we'd never know how satisfying it is to say, "Ha! Outran ya!" as we blaze a trail toward mental victory. Some resources that may be useful: Contact us at:
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The Man Made Podcast ep. 37. Navigating Worry
10/19/2023
The Man Made Podcast ep. 37. Navigating Worry
Welcome to the ManMade Podcast This Podcast is with Shawn Helvey and Adam Thorne. Shawn is a licensed behavioral health counselor and Adam is a graduate student in behavioral health counseling. They’ve known each other for over 25 years and talk every week about the trials and tribulations of life. Navigating the convoluted realm of worry is akin to being a bartender at a cognitive cocktail party where 'Anxiety Ale' and 'Dread Draught' are the drinks du jour. A therapist, in this scenario, dons the hat of a seasoned mixologist, concocting a blend of mindfulness mimosas to help their client sober up from a hangover of hysteria. Amidst the cacophony of crippling concerns and fears that frolic around like unruly patrons at last call, our therapist employs a dash of dark humor as a makeshift bouncer to show these tormenting thoughts the exit. With a serving of sassy repartees and a garnish of gutsy giggles, they venture through the tavern of trepidation, showing that sometimes the best way to tackle worry is to roast it with a toast, chortle at the chaos, and perhaps engage in a metaphorical pub-crawl through the psyche, discovering that the path to emotional sobriety is paved with laughter, a shot of courage, and a chaser of cheer. Some resources that may be useful: Contact us at:
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The Man Made Podcast ep. 36. Prioritizing your time - Embrace downtime
10/10/2023
The Man Made Podcast ep. 36. Prioritizing your time - Embrace downtime
Welcome to the ManMade Podcast This Podcast is with Shawn Helvey and Adam Thorne. Shawn is a licensed behavioral health counselor and Adam is a graduate student in behavioral health counseling. They’ve known each other for over 25 years and talk every week about the trials and tribulations of life. In the grand circus of life, where juggling responsibilities can sometimes feel like trying to balance a watermelon on your nose while riding a unicycle (uphill, of course!), it's easy to forget that sometimes, the best thing to do is… absolutely nothing. That’s right, zilch, nada! Embracing downtime isn't just the exclusive domain of lazy cats or sloths on vacation. It's essential brain TLC! Our noggin, much like that overstuffed closet you've been avoiding, needs a good declutter every now and then. So, the next time you feel the urge to cram one more task into your day, consider the profound wisdom of couch potatoes everywhere and take a well-deserved siesta. Your mind will thank you. Probably with dreams of watermelons and unicycles. But hey, that's therapy for another day! Some resources that may be useful: Contact us at:
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The Man Made Podcast ep. 35. Feedback
10/03/2023
The Man Made Podcast ep. 35. Feedback
Welcome to the ManMade Podcast This Podcast is with Shawn Helvey and Adam Thorne. Shawn is a licensed behavioral health counselor and Adam is a graduate student in behavioral health counseling. They’ve known each other for over 25 years and talk every week about the trials and tribulations of life. Feedback is like the yin and yang of mental health – a wild rollercoaster ride through the amusement park of life. Some feedback is as sweet as grandma's apple pie, making you feel like you could conquer the world with a toothpick. But then, there's the not-so-good feedback that stings like a bee at a picnic. Yet, being open and impartial when you receive feedback is like having a secret weapon in your mental health arsenal. It's like wearing a Teflon suit that lets the good stuff stick and the bad stuff slide right off. Embrace the good, and treat the not-so-good like the eccentric relative at Thanksgiving dinner – listen politely, but don't take it too seriously. In the end, feedback is the compass that helps navigate the labyrinth of self-improvement, and sometimes, it's just the comedic plot twist you need in your life sitcom! Some resources that may be useful: Contact us at:
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The Man Made Podcast ep. 34. Unflappable – Journal Entry Series
09/26/2023
The Man Made Podcast ep. 34. Unflappable – Journal Entry Series
Welcome to the ManMade Podcast This Podcast is with Shawn Helvey and Adam Thorne. Shawn is a licensed behavioral health counselor and Adam is a graduate student in behavioral health counseling. They’ve known each other for over 25 years and talk every week about the trials and tribulations of life. Ah, the art of being unflappable—a skill often acquired after decades of spilling coffee on white shirts, navigating the chaotic aisles of toy stores during holiday sales, or enduring blind dates set up by overly enthusiastic relatives. As we embark on the roller coaster called life, we realize it isn't just about holding on tight, but mastering the poker face while you're being tossed upside down. Many claim they've discovered the secret to emotional mastery, only to be foiled by a Wi-Fi outage during their favorite show's climax. But over time, through the treacherous valleys of unexpected plot twists and the peaks of "Why is this happening to me?" moments, one learns to take a deep breath, muster a smile, and remember that even if today's turmoil is like a squirrel in your pants (Shawn does not care for squirrel’s) , tomorrow promises the serenity of a sleeping cat on your lap. Remember: life’s too short to lose your cool, but just long enough to learn how not to. Some resources that may be useful: Contact us at:
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